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Le Fonds africain de développement lève un montant historique de 11 milliards de dollars, marquant le début d’une nouvelle ère pour l’appropriation africaine et le développement axé sur l’investissement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Fonds africain de développement (FAD), la branche de financement concessionnel du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org), a obtenu un montant record de 11 milliards de dollars de contributions auprès de 43 partenaires dans le cadre de la 17e reconstitution de ses ressources (FAD-17). Il s’agit de la plus importante reconstitution de l’histoire du Fonds en dépit de sérieuses contraintes budgétaires au niveau mondial et d’une baisse des budgets consacrés à l’aide au développement.

Ce résultat, qui représente une hausse de 23 % par rapport à la reconstitution précédente, envoie un signal clair de confiance dans les perspectives de développement de l’Afrique, dans le leadership du Groupe de la Banque et dans un nouveau modèle de développement axé sur l’investissement, le partage des risques et la mise à l’échelle.

« Il ne s’agit pas seulement d’une reconstitution de ressources », a déclaré M. Sidi Ould Tah, président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement. « C’est un tournant. Dans l’un des environnements mondiaux les plus difficiles pour le financement du développement, nos partenaires ont choisi l’ambition plutôt que la réduction des dépenses, et l’investissement plutôt que l’inertie. »

L’Afrique s’engage en tant que co-investisseur dans son propre avenir

Pour la première fois dans l’histoire du Fonds, 23 pays africains ont apporté des contributions sans précédent à leur propre guichet de financement concessionnel.

Au total, 182,7 millions de dollars ont été promis par les pays africains, dont 19 ont contribué pour la première fois aux côtés des contributeurs régionaux de longue date. Cela représente un montant multiplié par cinq par rapport à la reconstitution précédente.

« Ce n’est pas symbolique », a souligné M. Ould Tah. « C’est une véritable transformation. L’Afrique n’est plus seulement bénéficiaire de financements concessionnels. L’Afrique est désormais co-investisseur dans son propre avenir. »

De l’aide à l’investissement : une nouvelle ère financière pour les financements concessionnels

Le FAD-17 marque un changement structurel dans la manière dont les ressources concessionnelles seront utilisées.

Les partenaires ont approuvé un nouveau modèle financier qui permet au Fonds africain de développement de :

  • Tirer parti de son bilan, notamment grâce à une option d’emprunt sur le marché qui sera mise en œuvre au cours de ce cycle.
  • Déployer des instruments innovants, notamment des capitaux hybrides.
  • Utiliser le financement concessionnel de manière stratégique pour absorber les risques, attirer les capitaux privés et catalyser les investissements à grande échelle.

Chaque dollar investi par le biais du Fonds permet déjà de débloquer plus de 2,50 dollars de cofinancement et de capitaux privés, un ratio qui devrait encore augmenter dans le cadre du nouveau modèle.

« Cela permet au financement concessionnel de remplir sa mission première, à savoir absorber les risques, débloquer les investissements privés et accélérer le développement à grande échelle », a assuré M. Ould Tah.

Une nouvelle génération de partenariats à grande échelle

Le FAD-17 établit également, pour la première fois, des partenariats de cofinancement concessionnel à grande échelle parallèlement au Fonds.

Les partenaires financiers au développement ont annoncé des engagements importants, notamment :

  • Jusqu’à 800 millions de dollars de la Banque arabe pour le développement économique en Afrique (BADEA).
  • Jusqu’à deux milliards de dollars du Fonds de l’OPEP pour le développement international.

Ces partenariats marquent le lancement d’une nouvelle génération de collaborations à grande échelle et à risque partagé, renforçant considérablement la capacité du Fonds à mener à bien des projets transformationnels dans les environnements les plus difficiles.

Avoir de l’impact là où cela compte le plus

Les ressources mobilisées dans le cadre du FAD-17 soutiendront 37 pays africains fragiles et à faible revenu, en mettant l’accent sur :

  • L’élargissement de l’accès à l’énergie.
  • Le renforcement des systèmes alimentaires et de la sécurité alimentaire.
  • L’investissement dans le capital humain.
  • La promotion de l’intégration régionale et du commerce.
  • La mise en place d’infrastructures résilientes.

Un soutien ciblé continuera d’être apporté aux pays fragiles et vulnérables, notamment par le biais de la Facilité d’appui à la transition.

Un signe de confiance à l’échelle mondiale

Coorganisée par le Royaume-Uni et le Ghana, la session d’annonce des contributions, qui s’est tenue à Londres, a conclu un processus de reconstitution des ressources qui a duré un an et s’est déroulé dans un contexte mondial exceptionnellement incertain.

« Le Royaume-Uni est fier de coorganiser la 17e reconstitution des ressources du Fonds africain de développement aux côtés de la République du Ghana », a déclaré la baronne Jenny Chapman, ministre d’État britannique chargée du Développement international et de l’Afrique. « Nous avons un partenariat de longue date avec la Banque africaine de développement et la soutenons dans sa volonté de promouvoir une croissance durable et inclusive sur le continent, dans l’intérêt du Royaume-Uni et de nos partenaires africains. »

Pour Thomas Nyarko Amprem, vice-ministre ghanéen des Finances, le Fonds est un « instrument stratégique du Groupe de la Banque pour réduire la vulnérabilité sur le continent ».

« Le succès de l’ADF-17 confirme la solide confiance internationale dans l’orientation stratégique du Fonds et dans le potentiel de l’Afrique à obtenir des résultats à grande échelle », a affirmé M. Ould Tah. « Cette reconstitution va au-delà de l’aide. Il s’agit d’un investissement stratégique, avec des retours mesurables en termes de stabilité, de croissance, de commerce et de résilience mondiale. »

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
media@afdb.org

À propos du Fonds africain de développement : 
Depuis sa création en 1972, le Fonds africain de développement a accordé plus de 45 milliards de dollars de financements sous forme de dons, de prêts concessionnels et de garanties aux pays les plus pauvres d’Afrique. Le Fonds demeure la pierre angulaire du financement multilatéral du développement mené par l’Afrique ainsi qu’un instrument central de la mission du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement pour stimuler une croissance inclusive et durable sur tout le continent.

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DWYPD warns of increased financial abuse during festive season

Source: Government of South Africa

DWYPD warns of increased financial abuse during festive season

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has urged women and people with disabilities to remain vigilant against financial abuse during the festive season.

The department raised concern over the increased risk of financial exploitation targeting women and persons with disabilities during this period.

The department explained that financial abuse can take various forms, including controlling access to money, misusing income or social grants, forcing individuals into debt under their names, and exploiting economic dependence.

According to the DWYPD, perpetrators often intensify these tactics during the festive season, leaving women and persons with disabilities financially trapped and burdened with debt.

The department emphasised that economic abuse is recognised as a form of domestic violence under South African law and urged women and persons with disabilities to remain alert.

“We must recognise that financial abuse is not only an economic violation; it is a form of control and intimidation used to silence women and persons with disabilities. During the festive season, when financial pressures increase, so does the risk,” the department said.

The department also called on families and communities to remain vigilant, supportive, and protective of the rights of women and persons with disabilities.

The department noted that many women and persons with disabilities are often denied access to their own salaries, bonuses, savings, and government benefits during this time.

“Many are also pressured to cover holiday expenses while partners or family members misuse household funds.”

To address the growing concern, the department called for:
•    Increased community awareness on recognising and reporting financial abuse.
•    Closer collaboration between government departments, banks, and social services to detect and prevent financial exploitation.
•    Protection of social grants and income from misuse by partners or family members.
•    Strengthened economic empowerment programmes for women, especially women with disabilities.
The department further reminded South Africans that gender-based violence (GBV) is not only physical.

“Financial control is a powerful tool of oppression. Let us work together to ensure women, especially women with disabilities, remain safe, supported, and financially independent,” the department said.

Members of the public who suspect financial exploitation are urged to report it to the relevant authorities and ensure that women, particularly women with disabilities, receive the necessary support to protect their independence and dignity. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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President Ramaphosa urges unity and inclusive dialogue

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa urges unity and inclusive dialogue

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for unity, dialogue and regional cooperation as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) concluded its virtual Extraordinary Summit on the political and security situation in Madagascar.

Delivering closing remarks at the summit on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa said the engagements by Heads of State and Government reflected a shared commitment to peace and stability in the region.

“The unity of purpose that has governed our engagements on this and other critical matters affecting our region is indeed commendable. We must continue in this vein,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said deliberations on Madagascar had been “substantive, detailed, constructive and most importantly, outcomes based,” underscoring SADC’s resolve to support a peaceful resolution to the country’s political challenges.

He called on the people of Madagascar to seize the moment and pursue national reconciliation.

“We call on all the Malagasy people to take this opportunity to deeply reflect on the challenges facing their country and choose the path of peace, unity, reconciliation and development,” the President said.

The SADC Chairperson welcomed the restoration of calm in Madagascar and noted steps taken by the Transitional Government to initiate national consultations earlier this month, saying these developments provided a foundation for further engagement and dialogue.

President Ramaphosa emphasised that SADC would remain actively engaged in Madagascar’s transition process, reaffirming the regional bloc’s commitment to peace, constitutional order and democratic governance.

He also highlighted the importance of cooperation among SADC Member States, noting that instability in one part of the region has implications for all. 

“Inasmuch as conflict and instability in one part of the region impacts us all, cooperation is key to the region’s stability, peace and progress,” he said.

Turning to organisational matters, President Ramaphosa congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his election as incoming Chair of SADC, expressing confidence in continued collaboration to advance the organisation’s mandate.

“I look forward to working closely with you, my dear brother as we advance the mandate of SADC in pursuit of peace, security and shared prosperity for our region and all its peoples,” he said.

President Ramaphosa concluded by thanking Heads of State and Government, Ministers and senior officials for their participation and preparatory work and extended well wishes to the region. 

He wished leaders and citizens “a blessed festive season and a prosperous new year.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Kruger National Park implements gate quotas to avoid overcrowding

Source: Government of South Africa

Kruger National Park implements gate quotas to avoid overcrowding

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has advised day visitors planning to visit the Kruger National Park (KNP) during the festive season that gate quotas will be in place to prevent overcrowding on the roads and facilities. 

“Once daily quotas are reached, only pre-booked visitors will be allowed entry. Queueing will then apply, and access will be dependent on the number of visitors exiting the park. Wild Card members are reminded that they are not exempt from the pre-booking administration fee,” SANParks said on Wednesday.

To safeguard entry, visitors are advised to book online ahead of their visit at www.sanparks.org, for which a non-refundable administration fee of R59 for adults and R29 is payable. 

This fee is separate from the conservation fee, which remains payable at the gate unless a valid Wild Card is produced.

“Importantly, the quota system does not apply to overnight guests but is specifically relevant to day visitors. Pre-booked day visitors are prioritised at the gate but must arrive within their allocated time slots. Late arrivals will be treated as non-booked and will not receive priority access,” SANParks said.

Special attention is therefore drawn to operational times, as it pertains to entry of pre-booked visitors:

  • Time slot 1: 05.30 to 08:00
  • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
  • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards

The conservation fee for South African residents, as well as Zimbabwe and Mozambique nationals, is R134 per adult and R67 per child between ages 2 to 11 years. 

For nationals of Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, the conservation fee is R275 per adult and R137 per child. 

“The standard conservation fee of R602 for adults and R300 for children applies to all other guests. To this effect, South African identity documents or driver’s licences will be required for South Africans, with all other guests having to produce a passport. 

“This applies to both drivers and all passengers. Failure to produce valid identification will result in the payment of the standard conservation fee of R602 for adults and R300 for children,” SANParks said. 

Vehicles without licenCe plates or display of a valid temporary licenCe number will not be allowed to enter or exit the park. 

Any vehicle found inside the park without proper plates will be impounded, and the driver will be charged and fined. 

Ranger Services, the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force will be deployed throughout the festive period to ensure compliance and prevent poaching.

Guests are also reminded of the secure and convenient cash-free payment system applied at the gates (i.e., Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge) as well as fuel stations in the southern part of the park. 

This system ensures a smooth and hassle-free entry and exit from the park.

“Visitors are urged to observe the park’s rules, which are primarily intended to ensure safe and pleasant experiences. We also urge visitors to make use of the 24-hour emergency number on their entrance permit to report any incidents (013 735 4064 or 076 801 9679). 

“By respecting these rules, visitors contribute to the preservation of the park’s natural beauty and the safety of all its inhabitants. Visitors are urged to plan their trips and allow sufficient time to enjoy the bush, relax and arrive safely at their destination,” SANParks said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Warm-to-cool conditions for Christmas, New Year period

Source: Government of South Africa

Warm-to-cool conditions for Christmas, New Year period

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) expects partly cloudy and warm-to-cool conditions across much of the country during the Christmas and the New Year period.

Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are anticipated mainly over the central and eastern parts of South Africa.

“Thunderstorm activity is expected to occur primarily in the afternoons, although periods of increased moisture may result in morning showers in some areas. 

“Much of the rainfall during this period will be associated with afternoon and evening thundershowers, which may at times be accompanied by heavy downpours, lightning and gusty winds,” SAWS Senior Forecaster Jacqueline Modika said on Thursday, during a media briefing in Pretoria.

The South African Weather Service, through its Disaster Risk Reduction function, has released its latest seasonal climate outlook for the 2025/26 summer season, covering the period from December 2025 to April 2026. 

The forecast indicates a transition toward a weak La Niña state, which is expected to influence rainfall and temperature patterns across the country.

La Niña refers to a climate pattern where the waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become cooler than normal. This cooling changes global wind and weather patterns. 

“It typically brings above-normal summer rainfall to the north-eastern parts of South Africa such as Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, parts of the North West and Free State.

“Climate model predictions suggest an increased likelihood of above-normal rainfall over the central and eastern parts of South Africa, particularly in the north-eastern summer rainfall regions,” Modika said. 

These wetter-than-usual conditions are consistent with the typical impacts associated with La Niña episodes and are expected to persist into mid-to-late summer.

In terms of temperatures, minimum temperatures are forecast to be above-normal over most parts of the country, while daytime maximum temperatures are likely to be below-normal over the north-eastern regions, due to increased cloud cover and rainfall. 

Above-normal maximum temperatures are, however, expected over parts of the south-western regions.

“From a Disaster Risk Reduction perspective, the anticipated rainfall may bring positive impacts for water resources and agriculture, but it also raises the risk of localised flooding, particularly in flood-prone areas, informal settlements, and regions with poor drainage infrastructure.

“Communities are urged to remain vigilant, especially during periods of persistent or intense rainfall. It is of utmost importance for the public, particularly vulnerable communities, to regularly consult credible weather forecast and warnings sources for developments and take appropriate action as part of their daily routine,” she said.

Such sources include radio, television and the South African Weather Service website and social media platforms.

“Yesterday’s impacts clearly demonstrate how quickly weather conditions can deteriorate once thunderstorms intensify. The South African Weather Service will continue to closely monitor evolving weather and climate conditions and will provide weekly updates and early warnings where necessary to support public safety and preparedness,” Modika said.

Residents are encouraged to:

  • Seek shelter when thunderstorms approach,
  • Move vehicles under cover where possible,
  • Avoid driving through flooded roads,
  • Report fallen trees, flooding or damage to municipal authorities.
  • Avoid crossing flooded bridges,
  • Stay informed by following official SAWS weather updates,
  • Take necessary precautions during thunderstorm activity,
  • Ensure festive travel plans consider changing weather conditions.

– SAnews.gov.za

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SADC Summit approves deployment of Panel of Elders

Source: Government of South Africa

SADC Summit approves deployment of Panel of Elders

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has approved the deployment of a Panel of Elders and a Mediation Reference Group to Madagascar to support efforts aimed at restoring political stability, constitutional order and democratic governance.

This was announced in a communiqué issued following the virtual Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government held on Wednesday.

The summit received a report from the Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, Malawian President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, on the Technical Fact-Finding Mission to Madagascar conducted from 19 to 26 October 2025. 

The mission assessed the political and security situation through consultations with a wide range of stakeholders.

“Summit welcomed the restoration of calm in Madagascar, noted the national consultation processes launched by the Transitional Government on 10 December 2025, and reaffirmed its commitment to remain engaged with the political and security situation in the Republic of Madagascar until an elected government is established through electoral processes,” the Communique said.

The summit urged the Transitional Government of Madagascar, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, to initiate an inclusive, Malagasy-owned and led national dialogue during the transitional period. This process is expected to pave the way for fresh elections and facilitate the peaceful return of political exiles.

SADC further called on the Transitional Government to ensure that reform processes are timely, inclusive of all stakeholders, and create a conducive environment for meaningful participation, including by political exiles.

As part of its decisions, the summit approved the deployment of the SADC Panel of Elders by March 2026, to be led by former Malawian President Dr Joyce Banda, together with the Mediation Reference Group and supported by the SADC Secretariat. The structures will facilitate and support ongoing efforts to restore political stability, democracy and peace in Madagascar.

The summit also directed the Panel of Elders to engage former Mozambican President Dr Joaquim Chissano, SADC’s Special Envoy to Madagascar, to provide context on previous interventions and outstanding issues, particularly regarding constitutional reforms, electoral processes and the rule of law.

In reaffirming the region’s stance, the summit emphasised SADC’s strong commitment to protecting constitutional rule and democratic governance, and to restoring peace and democracy in Madagascar.

Madagascar was directed to submit a dialogue readiness report and a draft National Roadmap by 28 February 2026, with further progress updates scheduled for May, August and November 2026.

On organisational matters, following the appointment of President Cyril Ramaphosa as Chairperson of SADC, the summit appointed Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema as the Interim Incoming Chairperson of the regional body.

The summit further directed the SADC Secretariat to coordinate with the African Union and international partners to mobilise financial, technical and logistical resources to support reforms and ensure coordinated interventions.

Leaders expressed appreciation to President Mutharika for his leadership as Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, as well as to President Ramaphosa for his leadership and contribution to advancing SADC’s regional agenda.

The Extraordinary Summit concluded with a reaffirmation of collective commitment by SADC Heads of State and Government to peace, security and regional integration in Southern Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Prime Minister Meets US Vice President

Source: Government of Qatar

Washington, December 18, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met in Washington today with HE US Vice President JD Vance.

The meeting focused on discussing the strong, strategic bilateral relations between the State of Qatar and the US, as well as the means to enhance them. It also dealt with several topics of joint interest.

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Marriott International and V&A Waterfront Holdings Announce Agreement to Bring EDITION to Cape Town’s Iconic Waterfront

Source: APO

Marriott International, Inc. (www.Marriott.com) and V&A Waterfront Holdings today announced a signed agreement to open The Cape Town EDITION within the V&A Waterfront in 2026.  This milestone agreement is anticipated to mark the debut of EDITION Hotels in Africa, bringing its signature taste-making design, innovation, and consistent, excellent service to Cape Town.

Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President – Development, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International commented, “The signing of our first EDITION Hotel in Africa marks a significant milestone for the company’s growth strategy in the continent. Cape Town is a city that embodies creativity, diversity, and a dynamic spirit – qualities that align perfectly with the brand’s ethos. The V&A Waterfront is an iconic location, and we are confident that this project will set a new standard for luxury hospitality in the market.”

The Cape Town EDITION is expected to feature 142 elegantly designed guest rooms and suites and world-class dining experiences, including a signature rooftop bar, along with a spa, pool and meeting and event facilities. Plans also include thoughtfully curated social spaces that reflect the city’s rich heritage and cosmopolitan energy.

The project is also anticipated to include The Residences at The Cape Town EDITION.  Plans include six private residences that will embody the EDITION’s signature blend of contemporary luxury and refined simplicity, ushering in a new benchmark of luxury living in the city.

Shanghai based architectural firm Neri & Hu have been appointed to design The Cape Town EDITION and The Residences at The Cape Town EDITION, in collaboration with local architect and design firm StudioMAS. True to the EDITION brand, the project plans to deliver a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere, seamlessly blending modern, luxurious style with authentic local character.

David Green, Chief Executive Officer of the V&A Waterfront commented, “We are excited to be developing this architecturally stunning new building which will mark the launch of EDITION Hotels in Africa. Cape Town is privileged to join only a select number of markets in the world with an EDITION Hotel.  We are witnessing growing tourism demand in the city, and The Cape Town EDITION will offer guests a plethora of destination-led experiences and direct access to the world’s leading luxury retail brands, top-class restaurants, charter cruises and other incredible experiences.”

The Cape Town EDITION and The Residences at The Cape Town EDITION will be located at the iconic V&A Waterfront, one of the Southern Hemisphere’s oldest working harbours and among the most visited destinations in Africa. Positioned at the edge of the planned Granger Bay development, the property will offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the City Bowl, and Cape Town’s most celebrated landmarks—Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill. The V&A Waterfront features an array of attractions, including an Amphitheatre hosting year-round events, Battery Park, a world-class heliport, and extensive yacht berths with dedicated superyacht facilities, along with an array of dining and retail offerings. Guests and residents will also enjoy a newly developed public promenade along the water’s edge, providing seamless access to the vibrant destination.

The Cape Town EDITION and The Residences at The Cape Town EDITION’s prime location aims to provide travellers and residents with unrivalled access to Cape Town’s celebrated cultural, culinary, and natural attractions, reinforcing the city’s position as a leading global tourism destination.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..

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About Marriott International: 
Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of over 9,700 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 143 countries and territories, as of September 30, 2025. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotel, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. For more information, please visit our website at www.Marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.MarriottNewsCenter.com. 

About EDITION Hotels: 
EDITION Hotels is an unexpected and refreshing collection of individualized, customized, one-of-a-kind hotels that redefines the codes of traditional luxury. Displaying the best of dining and entertainment, services, and amenities “all under one roof,” each EDITION property is unique, reflecting the best cultural and social milieu of its location and time. Each hotel, with its individuality, authenticity, originality, and unique ethos, reflects the current spirit and zeitgeist of its location.  Although all the hotels look completely different, the brand’s unifying aesthetic is in its approach and attitude to the modern lifestyle rather than its appearance. EDITION is about a mindset and how it makes you feel rather than the way it looks. Sophisticated public spaces, finishes, design, and details serve the experience rather than drive it. For an underserved market of affluent, culturally savvy, and service-savvy guests, the EDITION experience and lifestyle explores the unprecedented intersection and the perfect balance between taste-making design and innovation and consistent, excellent service globally. EDITION currently operates 21 hotels in New York and Times Square, Miami Beach, West Hollywood, Tampa, Barcelona, Bodrum, London, Reykjavik, Madrid, Rome, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sanya China, Shanghai, Tokyo Toranomon, Singapore, Riviera Maya at Kanai, Mexico, a second in Tokyo Ginza, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Lake Como. 

About the V&A Waterfront: 
The V&A Waterfront is an iconic mixed-use destination located in the oldest working harbour in the Southern Hemisphere. With Table Mountain as its backdrop, the 123-hectare neighbourhood sits within the beautiful city of Cape Town, welcoming millions of people from all over the continent and the rest of the world. V&A is a symbol of heritage and diversity, where people from all walks of life can stay, play, live, shop, dine and work while immersed in the vibrant spirit and authentic local culture that thrives in this bustling ecosystem. It sees its role on the continent as a platform that facilitates and champions art and design, to support entrepreneurship and innovation, lead the charge on sustainability, and drive positive social and economic change. By prioritising people and the planet, V&A is an example of how working with communities, respecting the environment and operating with passion and integrity is a better, more productive and kinder way of doing business.

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OPIT – Open Institute of Technology Welcomes New African Students as the January 2026 Computer Science Intake Opens

Source: APO

The EU-accredited online institution responds to the growing demand for AI, Cybersecurity, and Data Science skills by providing flexible learning opportunities for students from around the world.

Responding to Africa’s Growing Demand for Digital Skills

Throughout African markets, businesses in the banking, energy, telecom, logistics, IT services, and public administration sectors are stepping up their hunt for specialists in AI, data science, software development, and cybersecurity.

“The future of work demands educational institutions that combine rigorous European academic standards with the flexibility professionals require,” said Professor Francesco Profumo, Rector of OPIT and former Italian Minister of Education.

OPIT’s EU accreditation assures that its BSc in Computer Science provides a globally recognized degree, which is a significant benefit for African professionals seeking career advancement or transitioning into high-growth sectors driven by artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

A Flexible and High-Quality Pathway for Working Professionals

OPIT’s BSc in Computer Science is designed to provide students with a solid technical foundation in:

  • Software Development
  • AI and Machine Learning
  • Data Science and Analytics
  • Cybersecurity
  • Cloud Computing and Emerging Technologies

The program’s competency-based learning model enables students to progress and manage their studies with demanding job and family commitments. Courses incorporate hands-on projects and real-world scenarios to guarantee that graduates are job-ready.

OPIT’s international faculty brings experience from major institutions and corporations such as Amazon, MIT, Microsoft, McKinsey, and Morgan Stanley, ensuring that academic excellence meets market requirements.

Student Voices: African Professionals Advancing Without Pausing Their Careers

First-hand experiences from current African students show OPIT’s role in supporting career progression while maintaining work-life balance:

“OPIT’s learning model, with optional live sessions and expertly curated asynchronous study materials, allows you to fit a high-quality accredited program into an already demanding work schedule.” – Charles Watson Ndethi Kibaki, OPIT student

“OPIT challenged me to think strategically, not just as a technical expert, but as someone who can influence high-level organizational decision-making.” – Obiora Awogu, OPIT student

These experiences represent a bigger trend across the African continent: professionals are consciously pursuing programs that combine global academic standards with instant applicability to the industry.

Applications Now Open

African professionals looking to boost their careers in software development, AI, cybersecurity, or data science can now apply for OPIT’s January 2026 BSc in Computer Science intake.

The Open Institute of Technology, OPIT, a fully online and EU-accredited higher education institution that specializes in technology disciplines, is now accepting applications for its mid-January 2026 intake for the BSc in Computer Science, reinforcing its commitment to meeting Africa’s growing demand for advanced digital skills.

In the last few years, OPIT has seen an increase in the number of applicants from Nigeria, Cameroon, South Africa, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Kenya have enrolled at OPIT. African students now represent 20% of OPIT’s international student base, reflecting the continent’s accelerating interest in practical, industry-aligned tech education.

OPIT – Open Institute of Technology, a fully online and EU-accredited higher education institution that specializes in technology disciplines, is now accepting applications for its mid-January 2026 intake for the BSc in Computer Science, reinforcing its commitment to meeting Africa’s growing demand for advanced digital skills.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of OPIT – Open Institute of Technology.

About OPIT:
OPIT – Open Institute of Technology is an EU-accredited online institution dedicated to offering high-quality and affordable education in technology and digital disciplines. Its degrees follow a competency-based learning method and are taught in English by international faculty. OPIT’s mission is to unlock global career opportunities by training the next generation of leaders in computer science, digital business, data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

More information: www.OPIT.com

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SADC Extraordinary Summit considers Madagascar report

Source: Government of South Africa

SADC Extraordinary Summit considers Madagascar report

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will consider a report on the political and security situation in Madagascar.

Speaking at a virtual Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government convened on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa thanked regional leaders for responding to his invitation, saying the meeting was convened to consider a report from the Chairperson of the Organ on the political and security situation in the island nation of Madagascar.

He recalled that the region had met recently to address urgent organisational matters. 

“As you will recall, we convened a similar session during the past month to attend to an urgent issue pertaining to the leadership of our organisation,” he said. 

The President said Madagascar experienced political challenges in September 2025 that led to the formation of a transitional government. Following these developments, an Extraordinary SADC Organ Troika Summit was held on 16 October 2025 to assess the situation.

“The Organ Troika Summit resolved to urgently deploy a Technical Mission to undertake a fact-finding mission to Madagascar. The outcome of this mission is contained in the report we will be considering today,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said the developments in Madagascar highlighted the need to accelerate the implementation of regional development objectives under SADC Vision 2050, which seeks to achieve “a region whose peoples live in peace and harmony and can realise their economic potential.”

He reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to peace and stability through the SADC Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, which aims to promote peace, security, democracy and political stability, while fostering solidarity among the peoples of the region.

“Over the past years, we have made progress towards achieving these goals, notably with respect to consolidating democracy, promoting good governance, ensuring electoral integrity and deepening a culture of human rights,” President Ramaphosa said.

However, he cautioned that political and security challenges persist in parts of the region.

“The situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo remains of grave concern. We also stand in solidarity with the government and the people of Mozambique in their quest for stability and security in the Cabo Delgado province,” he said. 

Reflecting on Madagascar’s history, President Ramaphosa said the country has faced systemic political and security challenges, recalling SADC’s support in 2009 for a democratic and peaceful future. While progress had been made, he noted that recent developments showed that “much more work needs to be done to foster sustainable peace.”

“Like all peoples in our region and our continent, the people of Madagascar yearn for durable peace and development. We have a collective responsibility to make this a reality,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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