Category: MIL-OSI

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From fertilizer bags to fishing nets: Africa’s way forward on agricultural plastics

Source: APO

African countries are stepping up efforts against agricultural plastic pollution. Gathered at FAO’s regional webinar “The Voluntary Code of Conduct for plastics in agriculture: African experiences and the way forward”, experts from across the continent shared practical solutions and emerging initiatives to reduce the environmental impacts of plastics while maintaining agricultural productivity.

Plastics play a growing role in food production across the continent, yet inadequate waste management carries environmental and health risks. FAO Deputy Regional Representative for Africa, Ayman Omer, pointed to FAO’s Provisional Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Sustainable Use and Management of Plastics in Agriculture (VCoC) as the framework for country action.

“The VCoC provides practical guidance to support countries in developing policies and strategies for agricultural plastics throughout their life cycle. By working together, we can accelerate its implementation and support the transition towards more efficient, inclusive, resilience and sustainable agrifood systems,” Omer said.

Country action on the ground

Country experiences demonstrated both the scale of the challenge and the opportunities for innovation. In Kenya, the FARM project improves lifecycle management  of agricultural plastic waste through collaboration among government agencies, producer responsibility organizations, and stakeholders across the agrifood value chain.

For Annastacia Vyalu, Senior Compliance Officer at the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a practical tool for reducing agriplastic pollution while promoting circularity and resource recovery across agricultural value chains. The FARM pilot, currently running in three Kenyan counties, is expected to expand nationwide and eventually across East Africa.

As Kenya builds up its collection systems, attention is also turning to specific plastic packaging  in the value chain. Fertilizer bags, for example, are a common source of plastic in agricultural systems, yet what happens to them after use often goes unmanaged. Killian Banda, Senior Specialist for Market Development and Intelligence at the African Fertilizer and Agribusiness Partnership (AFAP), presented findings from a multi-country study examining this gap.

While the study found broad awareness of plastic pollution among value-chain actors, it also revealed persistent challenges, including weak enforcement of regulations and limited recycling infrastructure. Recommended actions included promoting reusable packaging, strengthening recycling incentives, and exploring biodegradable alternatives.

Testing alternatives

Innovative alternatives to conventional plastics were another highlight of the webinar.  Results from field trials in pineapple production demonstrated that coconut coir mulch can serve as an effective alternative to conventional plastic mulch. Presented by Dr Ebenezer Laryea, Associate Professor at Aston University in the United Kingdom, the project, which took place in Ghana, showed that biodegradable alternatives can deliver comparable agricultural performance while reducing plastic waste. With support from FAO, a new phase will test biodegradable seedling bags in cocoa nurseries through 2026.

Participants also pointed out the importance of innovation in fisheries. Drawing on pilot experiences in Kenya, Emma Algotsson, CEO of South African company Catchgreen, presented results from three years of trials, where biodegradable ropes, nets and traps matched the performance of conventional gear. “The challenge is not simply about replacing plastic. The challenge is designing fishing gear that performs reliably during the use but does not remain in the environment for decades,” said Algotsson.

The discussions reinforced a shared message: recycling alone will not solve agricultural plastic pollution. Participants called for affordable alternatives, stronger policy frameworks, improved collection systems, and greater collaboration among public and private stakeholders.

Building on the experiences shared on the webinar, FAO will continue supporting countries in implementing the VCoC, including through FARM in Kenya and the next phase of the Ghana coconut-coir project, to accelerate the transition towards more sustainable agrifood systems across Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

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Bringing integrated services closer to nomadic families in Chad

Source: APO – Report:

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In the nomadic settlement of Mandjafa, on the outskirts of N’Djamena, Afia travelled with her four-month-old daughter, Fatma, to benefit from services provided during an integrated outreach activity for nomadic communities. For this mother of five, these interventions play an essential role in protecting her family’s health.

“Vaccines help keep my children healthy. As soon as they become ill, I take them to the health centre,” she said.

Like many nomadic families in Chad, Afia lives in a pastoral community where livestock are central to household livelihoods. Seasonal mobility and the distance from health facilities can make access to essential services challenging. Nomadic populations account for approximately 3.5% of the country’s population.

To address this reality, the government has progressively implemented the One Health approach, which brings together the health, livestock, environmental and agricultural sectors to deliver services tailored to pastoral communities.

In Mandjafa, on 9 June 2026, this approach enabled integrated services to be provided to 134 beneficiaries, including 11 children. The intervention combined human and animal vaccination, with 96 animals vaccinated, alongside other preventive and health services. Community members also received vitamin A supplementation, deworming treatment and insecticide-treated mosquito nets.

According to Dr Mahamat Béchir, National One Health Coordinator at the Ministry of Public Health and Prevention and Permanent Secretary of the platform, the approach emerged from evidence that nomadic communities were not being adequately reached through conventional services.

“Studies conducted in the early 2000s showed that access to vaccination was very limited in some nomadic communities. We realized that our strategies needed to be adapted to their way of life,” he explained.

Teams also observed that livestock keepers were already making regular use of veterinary services. By combining animal health interventions with services for women and children, it became possible to reach more families during a single campaign while reducing the number of journeys required.

In Mandjafa, the approach benefits both families and their livestock. Among the beneficiaries is Youssouf Idriss, a livestock keeper living near the site and owner of sheep, cattle and camels. “My animals are essential to my family’s life. They provide us with food and income. Their health is therefore a priority for us,” he said.

For pastoral households, animal health has a direct impact on income, nutrition and well-being. Joint campaigns therefore address multiple essential needs through a single intervention while improving access to preventive services. On the ground, this collaboration is reflected in outreach activities conducted in nomadic settlements.

Raphaël Neni, a veterinary officer at the Ministry of Livestock who has worked in the field for five years, regularly supports campaigns targeting nomadic communities. “Since we strengthened vaccination activities, some diseases have become less common. Livestock keepers themselves can see the improvement in the health of their animals,” he said.

Beyond the benefits for livestock, these interventions also help reduce the risk of diseases transmitted between animals and humans, strengthening health security within communities.

At the national level, the One Health platform coordinates actions across the health, livestock, environmental and agricultural sectors to strengthen prevention, surveillance and response to health threats. “Health challenges can no longer be addressed by a single sector. Zoonotic diseases, climate change and environmental issues require close collaboration to better protect populations,” explained Dr Béchir.

World Health Organization (WHO) has supported the government’s efforts for several years. This support includes strengthening the One Health platform, conducting International Health Regulations assessments, supporting implementation of the National Action Plan for Health Security and building the capacity of key stakeholders.

For Dr Tamadji Mbaïhol, who leads routine immunization activities at WHO in Chad, these communities are well known. For nearly 20 years, he has supported health activities among nomadic populations and has observed their willingness to use services when they are adapted to their way of life. “Nomadic populations are receptive to health services. The challenge is reaching them where they are. When interventions are adapted to their reality, participation is strong,” he said.

The ability to bring together multiple services during a single outreach activity is one of the key strengths of the One Health approach, particularly in areas where communities move regularly. Over the years, implementation of the approach has relied on collaboration between different ministries and several technical and financial partners.

“WHO support has contributed to strengthening the One Health platform and consolidating collaboration across the sectors involved. This momentum now allows us to move forward together on shared public health priorities,” said Dr Béchir.

While the teams continued their work with other families and livestock keepers, Afia prepared to return home with Fatma. Like many parents present that day, she was able to access several services through a single visit. The advice she wishes to share with other parents is simple:
“When a child is sick, they should be taken to a health centre quickly. This helps protect them and keep them healthy,” she said.

In Mandjafa, the One Health approach is bringing essential services closer to nomadic communities. By facilitating access to integrated services, it is helping to protect both human and animal health while supporting the livelihoods on which these communities depend.

– on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Chad.

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Appointment of the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board

Source: APO – Report:

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The Office of the President has today announced the appointment of Mrs Maria Azemia as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board.

Mrs Azemia holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in International Business Administration from Amity University, India, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management and Marketing from Edith Cowan University, Australia.

She brings over 10 years of experience in leadership, management, strategic planning, and tourism development across both the public and private sectors. Throughout her career, she has held several senior positions within the tourism industry, including Director of the Seychelles Pavilion at EXPO 2020 Dubai, Director of Destination Development at the Seychelles Tourism Board, and a range of marketing leadership roles at both local and international levels.

Prior to her appointment, Ms Azemia served as Executive Director in the Office of the Principal Minister within the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and the Blue Economy.

Her appointment takes effect on 1 July 2026.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Nominations open for 2026 National Arts and Culture Awards

Source: Government of South Africa

Nominations open for 2026 National Arts and Culture Awards

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has called on artists, cultural institutions, industry bodies, community organisations and the public to submit nominations for the 2026 National Arts and Culture Awards before the deadline this week.

The awards, held under the theme “Celebrating Our Nation’s Creative Excellence,” recognise individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to South Africa’s arts, culture and heritage sectors.

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie urged South Africans to nominate creatives who have made a difference.

“South Africa is full of incredible talent, but talent cannot be honoured if no one nominates it. Don’t assume someone else will do it. If you know an artist, performer, writer, filmmaker or cultural practitioner who has made a difference, nominate them today,” McKenzie said.

Deputy Minister Peace Mabe also encouraged the sector to participate.

“The National Arts and Culture Awards belong to the entire creative sector. We encourage individuals, communities, institutions and industry leaders to nominate those whose work is preserving our heritage, transforming lives and strengthening South Africa’s cultural future,” Mabe said.

Nominations must be submitted through the official NACA Digital Portal, https://naca.dsac.gov.za/, by 23:59 on 19 July 2026. No late submissions will be accepted.

Nomination guidelines, award categories and eligibility criteria are available on the portal.

The awards ceremony will take place on 21 August 2026. Updates are available on the Department’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sportartsculturersa

–SAnews.gov.za

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Steenhuisen to address Manufacturing Indaba

Source: Government of South Africa

Steenhuisen to address Manufacturing Indaba

Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition John Steenhuisen will address the opening of the Manufacturing Indaba at the Sandton Convention Centre on Tuesday.

“The Manufacturing Indaba is an annual exhibition platform allowing businesses of all sizes from industry giants to emerging entrepreneurs to showcase their products, technologies, and innovations to a highly targeted audience,” the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said in a statement.

According to the department, the exhibition aims to promote Africa’s reindustrialisation by bringing together business leaders, policymakers and investors.

The event will be held under the theme: “Made in Africa for Africa: Get South African and African Production onto shelves and into global value chains.”

The convention provides a platform to strengthen economic development, create employment and promote local production.

“The event is dedicated to advancing Africa’s industrialisation and reindustrialisation by promoting local manufacturing, value-added production and economic growth.

“It brings together manufacturers, investors, policymakers, technology providers, logistics companies, financiers, and industrial leaders to discuss strategies for competitiveness, sustainability, and innovation,” the department said.

The department said the Manufacturing Indaba 2026 represents a key opportunity to connect, learn and drive Africa’s manufacturing future through innovation, trade and industrial transformation. – SAnews.gov.za

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Be of service to those who need it most this Mandela Day – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

Be of service to those who need it most this Mandela Day – President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used the weekly newsletter to galvanise South Africans to dedicate their Mandela Day to acts of service, including feeding the hungry and comforting those who need it the most.

International Mandela Day is commemorated annually on Former President Nelson Mandela’s birthday, July 18.

“In 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared 18 July Nelson Mandela International Day… It is a global day of action to harness Madiba’s legacy in service of a challenge that confronts most nations: the fight against poverty, inequality and injustice. 

“This year, we ask every South African to heed that call. Let us give our 67 minutes through acts of service that feed the hungry, comfort the lonely or support the elderly. Let us lend our skills and time to the organisations that serve our communities every day. These acts matter because they change lives,” President Ramaphosa said.

He noted that overcoming poverty, as the former President said, is not an act of charity but an “act of justice”.

“On this Mandela Day, let us also recommit ourselves to the difficult task of ending poverty and inequality in our country and in our world. 

“Among other things, this means transforming the rules and institutions that govern the world’s finances so that they serve the needs of developing economies, not only the wealthiest. It means ensuring that the commitments made to the countries bearing the heaviest burden of climate change are honoured and strengthened,” the President said.

A government at work

On the world stage, the South African government used its G20 Presidency last year to put inequality firmly on the global agenda, commissioning the first ever-report on global inequality to G20 to world leaders. That work continues.

“We are now working with other countries and institutions to establish an International Panel on Inequality to monitor global inequality, assess its causes and consequences and recommend the policies needed to reverse it.

“No nation can overcome inequality alone. We need coordinated multilateral action, rooted in solidarity and shared responsibility,” President Ramaphosa said.

Locally, the President said Mandela Day serves as a reminder to refocus efforts by sustaining investment in education, health and “prioritising the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable”.

“We must continue to direct energy and resources towards strengthening early learning in our schools and completing the overhaul of our skills development system. At the same time, we must continue to build a health care system that provides quality care to all who need it, regardless of their ability to pay. 

“To tackle poverty and inequality, we must ensure that our laws and policies protect workers and that our regulatory environment encourages investment.

“At the same time, we are continuing to improve our social protection system and helping people build livelihoods, gain skills and find work through our public and social employment programmes,” President Ramaphosa said.

He called on South Africans to work with government to renew resolve to “tackle the poverty and inequality that make such service necessary in the first place”.

“Madiba taught us that building a just, caring and inclusive society is not the work of governments alone. It is the work of ordinary people performing extraordinary acts of compassion, courage and service. As Madiba said: ‘It is now in your hands’.

“Let the acts of service that we undertake this week be part of the foundation on which we build a better country and a better world for all,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Seychelles: Appointment of the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Careers and Further Education Agency

Source: APO


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The Office of the President has today announced the appointment of Mrs Barbara Kilindo as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Careers and Further Education Agency.

Mrs Kilindo holds a Master of Arts in Leadership and Strategic Management with First Class Honours and a Bachelor of Science in Biology with First Class Honours.

She brings experience in public administration, strategic management, policy development, and institutional governance. Throughout her career, she has held several senior leadership positions within Government, including serving as Director General in the Cabinet Office and Director General in the Department of Information.

Before her appointment, Mrs Kilindo served as Principal Scholarship Administrator, where she was responsible for scholarship administration, stakeholder coordination, compliance monitoring, and workforce planning.

Her appointment takes effect from 1st July 2026

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) Calls for Stronger Protection of Responders

Source: APO


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As of 9 July 2026, 112 health workers had been infected with Bundibugyo virus across DRC since the outbreak began, including 35 who died. The confirmed infection of a U.S. humanitarian worker supporting the response in Bunia adds urgency to the protection of everyone working to contain the outbreak.

Health workers, humanitarian personnel, community responders, laboratory teams, volunteers and operational staff are sustaining the response under intense pressure. Their work identifies cases, cares for patients, follows contacts and protects affected communities. Their safety is central to stopping transmission.

The relevant authorities and response team have launched an epidemiological investigation, contact identification and exposure risk assessments concerning the U.S. humanitarian worker. The circumstances of exposure remain under investigation.

Dr Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, said:

“We honour the 112 health workers infected in DRC since this outbreak began, including the 35 who lost their lives, and every responder serving affected communities. Their courage, expertise and commitment protect lives every day. Reliable protective equipment, strong infection prevention systems, continuous training, psychosocial support and safe working conditions are essential for every person delivering this response. We thank the governments and partners that have committed financial and operational support. Rapid disbursement of these commitments, together with additional resources, will strengthen protection for responders, expand essential operations and help teams stop every transmission chain.”

Governments and partners are providing vital financial and operational support, helping to strengthen surveillance, laboratory testing, case management, infection prevention and control, contact tracing and community engagement.

Rapid disbursement of outstanding commitments and further contributions are now required to close remaining gaps. Priority needs include personal protective equipment, infection prevention supplies, continuous training, mental health and psychosocial support, safe working conditions and the operational tools required to identify and interrupt transmission.

Through the Continental Incident Management Support Team, Africa CDC continues to support the governments of DRC and Uganda and coordinate with affected Member States and response partners.

All organisations operating in affected areas should strengthen occupational safety, report suspected exposures and symptoms rapidly, and provide continuous support to their personnel.

The patient’s confidentiality, dignity and medical privacy will be protected. The responsible authorities will provide further case-specific information in line with established public health protocols.​

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Media contact: 
​Bonney Tunya
Head of Media and Rapid Response
TunyaB@africacdc.org

Follow Africa CDC on:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4aNuzDn
X: https://apo-opa.co/4gAz6wK
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3R4KbvF
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4fxzM4R

About Africa CDC: 
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is the public health agency of the African Union. As an autonomous institution, Africa CDC supports AU Member States to strengthen health systems, improve disease surveillance, and enhance emergency preparedness and response. For more information, visit: http://www.AfricaCDC.org

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Tax filing season enters broader phase

Source: Government of South Africa

Tax filing season enters broader phase

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has opened the broader phase of the 2026 tax filing season, allowing provisional and non-provisional taxpayers to submit their income tax returns.

The filing season began on 1 July with the auto-assessment period, which ran until 12 July 2026 for taxpayers with less complex tax affairs.

Provisional taxpayers and trusts have until 22 January 2027 to file their returns.

“SARS encourages taxpayers to do a pre–Filing Season health check by confirming that their personal details, banking particulars, contact information, and tax affairs are up to date. A closed bank account, missing third-party data submission, or an outstanding return from a previous year can all delay an otherwise smooth outcome.

“By resolving these matters early through SARS’s digital channels, taxpayers place themselves in the best position for a seamless Filing Season experience.”

The revenue service said there is no need for taxpayers to take a day off work or take a taxi to visit a SARS Service Centre.

Taxpayers are urged to use enhanced digital channels first before considering a visit to a SARS Service Centre. 

In case taxpayers need to visit a Service Centre, they can book an appointment online via the SARS website; by calling 0800 00 7277 and selecting option 0; or by sending an SMS to 47277 with “Booking” followed by an ID or passport number. 

Although taxpayers are encouraged to book appointments before visiting a Service Centre, those without an appointment will be served after those who have made an appointment.

SARS has also cautioned taxpayers to remain vigilant against scams during the filing season.

“You need to be aware of email and SMS scams. In the run-up to Filing Season, there will be many attempts from scammers to mimic what we do and try and get your personal details, or to pay money into an account,” the revenue service said.

SARS said it will never request passwords, one-time PINs (OTPs), banking PINs or eFiling login credentials through email, SMS, social media or telephone.

“Taxpayers must use only official SARS channels and verify the credentials of any tax practitioner before sharing personal information,” the revenue service said.

The income tax return filing dates are as follows:

  • Auto Assessments: 1 July to 12 July 2026
  • Non-provisional individuals: 13 July to 23 October 2026
  • Provisional taxpayers: 13 July 2026 to 22 January 2027
  • Trusts: 19 September 2026 to 22 January 2027

SARS has advised provisional taxpayers to file early, gather supporting documents in advance and submit accurate returns on time.

A provisional taxpayer earns additional income, such as from a business, freelance work, investments or rental property, and pays tax in advance in two or more instalments based on estimated income.

A non-provisional taxpayer typically earns a salary or wage from an employer, with PAYE deducted, and usually files one tax return a year.

The revenue service said taxpayers should prepare well ahead of the deadline to avoid rushed or incomplete submissions.

Changes for the 2026 filing season include:

  • Less capturing, more prefilled data: Some information, such as investment income, will already be filled in on the form, saving taxpayers time.
  • Simpler, easier-to-understand questions: The form has been simplified with fewer repeated questions and clearer wording to help taxpayers complete it correctly.
  • Better guidance on residency status: New questions and date fields will help taxpayers provide the correct information about their residency.
  • Easier medical aid selection: A dropdown list of approved medical aid schemes will help taxpayers choose the correct option and avoid mistakes.
  • WhatsApp access: Taxpayers can check their auto-assessment status through WhatsApp. Auto-assessed taxpayers who do not use email or eFiling can also receive their Notice of Assessment (ITA34), Statement of Account (SOA) and upload supporting documents through WhatsApp.
  • Improved eFiling experience: The Income Tax Return (ITR12) has been updated with a new look and feel to make navigation easier. Taxpayers will also find quick links to their Notice of Assessment (ITA34) and clearer messages if a return is overdue.
  • Fewer verification issues: A new declaration alert questionnaire will help identify and resolve issues earlier, reducing the chances of a return being selected for verification.

SARS said the changes are aimed at making the filing experience smoother and helping taxpayers get it right the first time.

Taxpayers who need assistance can use the following channels:

  • Those unsure whether they need to submit a return can use the “Do you need to submit a return?” tool on the SARS website (https://www.sars.gov.za/types-of-tax/personal-income-tax/do-you-need-to-submit-a-return/).
  • Taxpayers can watch tutorial videos on the SARS YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/sarstax) for guidance on how to file.
  • Taxpayers who need to visit a SARS Service Centre should book an appointment before their visit (https://www.sars.gov.za/contact-us/make-an-appointment/).
  • Taxpayers may also visit SARS Mobile Tax Units and pop-ups in different regions.
  • Those who have forgotten their password can reset it online through the eFiling website by selecting “Forgot Password” or “Forgot Username”.

–SAnews.gov.za

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Zero Waste Foundation sets COP31-COP32 climate bridge in Africa

Source: APO

Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation (https://Sifiratikvakfi.org) and COP31 High-Level Climate Champion, held a series of meetings in Addis Ababa on 16 June, as part of efforts to strengthen climate cooperation between Türkiye, Ethiopia and African institutions.

The discussions focused on Türkiye’s preparations for COP31, the global reach of the Zero Waste Movement, circular economy-based climate action and Africa’s sustainable development priorities. The visit also marked the beginning of a joint working process between the Zero Waste Foundation and the Government of Ethiopia, positioning Addis Ababa as an important point of dialogue between COP31 and COP32.

From COP31 to COP32

Ağırbaş began his program in Ethiopia with Gedion Timothewos, Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and COP32 President. The meeting addressed the strategic importance of a planned Africa meeting to be held under the Zero Waste Forum, as well as possible areas of cooperation during the transition from COP31 to COP32.

The talks also explored how Türkiye and Ethiopia can work together on practical climate solutions, including resource efficiency, circular economy practices and stronger regional coordination on climate resilience.

Türkiye’s climate diplomacy in Africa

Later the same day, Ağırbaş visited the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Addis Ababa and met Ambassador Berk Baran, who also serves as Türkiye’s Permanent Representative to the African Union. The meeting covered Türkiye’s environmental and climate diplomacy with the African Union, preparations for the Zero Waste Forum and opportunities for regional cooperation.

Ağırbaş also met Dr. Peter Hunter, Australia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, together with Ambassador Berk Baran. The discussion focused on multilateral climate cooperation that could be developed with the African Union, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and regional organizations.

Africa’s sustainable development priorities

In his meeting with Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Ağırbaş discussed Africa’s sustainable development goals, climate resilience, access to climate finance, resource efficiency and the continent’s stronger representation in global climate processes.

These priorities are expected to shape the planned Africa meeting under the Zero Waste Forum, which is designed as a multi-stakeholder platform bringing together governments, international organizations, local authorities, academia, civil society and the private sector. The meeting aims to carry Africa’s climate priorities into the global agenda through concrete discussions on waste management, sustainable cities, green development and financing needs.

Green development and project cooperation

Ağırbaş also met Dr. Fitsum Assefa, Ethiopia’s Minister of Planning and Development. The meeting reviewed Ethiopia’s climate-resilient green economy approach, renewable energy investments, sustainable land management, ecosystem restoration and green development policies.

The two parties also discussed potential joint project areas and capacity-building opportunities between the Zero Waste Foundation and the Government of Ethiopia.

A model with global visibility

The Zero Waste Movement, which gained global visibility under the patronage of H.E. Emine Erdoğan, Chair of the UN High-Level Advisory Board on Zero Waste and Honorary President of the Zero Waste Foundation as well as the founder of the movement, is being positioned as a practical model contributing to resource efficiency, circular economy, sustainable development and climate resilience.

Through the Zero Waste Forum and its COP31 engagement, the Zero Waste Foundation aims to support inclusive climate action by connecting global climate diplomacy with implementation-oriented solutions. In Africa, this approach is expected to contribute to a broader cooperation agenda that respects the continent’s development priorities while strengthening the bridge from COP31 to COP32.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Zero Waste Foundation.

Contact:
Ahmet Musa Bala
basin@sifiratikvakfi.org

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