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Invest Africa, the Mayor of London and FirstBank United Kingdom (UK) to Host Joint Closing Reception as part of The Africa Debate 2026

Source: APO


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Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com), the Mayor of London and FirstBank UK are pleased to announce a joint Closing Reception marking the conclusion of The Africa Debate 2026, taking place on Wednesday, 3 June 2026 at The Crypt, Guildhall, London, from 18:00.

The reception will bring together delegates from The Africa Debate 2026 – the UK’s foremost platform for high-level dialogue on Africa’s economic future – and participants from the London-Africa Business Forum, ahead of the Mayor of London’s inaugural London-Africa Business Summit. The event will offer leaders from across government, finance, and industry a unique opportunity to reflect on the day’s discussions, deepen connections, and look ahead to the conversations continuing in the days that follow.

The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has announced that the first London-Africa Business Summit will be hosted in London, with the aim of tapping into the economic opportunities that a strong, mutual relationship with the continent can bring. The Summit builds on Sadiq’s trade mission to Africa in July 2025, visiting Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa to champion London as a place to invest in. 

The event will convene entrepreneurs and investors, government officials and trade groups from across Africa’s 54 nations, with the goal of attracting foreign direct investment to the capital and boosting trade links. Africa currently accounts for 1.25% of foreign direct investment into London, and the Mayor has identified expanding ties with Africa as key to delivering London’s international trade ambitions and creating thousands of jobs in the years ahead.

The Closing Reception marks a natural bridge between The Africa Debate and the Mayor’s broader Africa engagement agenda. Remarks will be delivered by Olukorede K.O. Adenowo, Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank UK, and Howard Dawber OBE, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth and Chair of London & Partners, who will attend on behalf of the Mayor of London.

The Africa Debate 2026 convenes over 800 senior leaders under the theme “Redefining Partnership: Navigating a World in Transition”, examining how African economies and their international partners can accelerate investment, unlock growth, and strengthen development outcomes in a rapidly changing global order. The event features H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, as Guest of Honour, alongside ministerial keynotes, high-level plenaries, and sessions on trade, finance, energy, critical minerals, and digital transformation.

Chantelé Carrington

Chief Executive Officer, Invest Africa, commented:

“The Africa Debate has always been about more than dialogue – it is about building the relationships that drive real investment and lasting impact. This Closing Reception, hosted alongside the Mayor of London and FirstBank UK, is a fitting culmination to a day of ambitious conversation. By bringing together delegates from The Africa Debate and the London-Africa Business Forum, we create a moment of genuine connection – where the leaders shaping Africa’s economic future can engage, exchange and continue building the partnerships that matter.”

Howard Dawber OBE, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, said: “London is a global gateway for African businesses and investors, which is why Sadiq Khan last year led a successful trade mission to the continent – the first by any Mayor of London.

Following the Mayor’s historic visit, we are hosting the first ever London-Africa Business Summit – underscoring just how central Africa is to London’s international trade and investment strategy. By bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs and investors at the summit and The Africa Debate, we are creating connections that turn ambition into action, as we build a better, more prosperous London for everyone.”

Olukorede K.O. Adenowo, Chief Executive Officer, FirstBank UK, added:

“FirstBank UK is proud to co-host this Closing Reception in partnership with Invest Africa and the Mayor of London. As a financial institution with deep roots across the Africa–UK corridor, we remain firmly committed to connecting the continent with global capital markets. Moments such as these, which bring together senior leaders from government, business and finance, play an important role in fostering the partnerships needed to drive meaningful progress. We look forward to welcoming delegates and to continuing the important conversations that will help shape the future of Africa–UK economic relations.”

The Closing Reception is by invitation only and open to delegates of The Africa Debate 2026 and the London-Africa Business Forum.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

For more information or media enquiries, please contact:
Fiona Hannig
Marketing & Communications Manager
Invest Africa
T: +44 2037 305 035
E: fiona.hannig@investafrica.com

About The Africa Debate:
The Africa Debate is London’s premier investment forum dedicated to shaping the future of African trade, investment, and economic transformation. Now in its 12th year, the event serves as a critical platform for global businesses, investors, policymakers and thought leaders to engage in high-level discussions on Africa’s evolving role in the global economy.

About Invest Africa:
Invest Africa is a leading pan-African business and investment platform that drives trade and investment across the continent. With over seventy years’ experience in Africa, we provide our network with trusted market insights, tailored business support, and platforms for meaningful engagement. Our network includes more than 400 multinational corporations, investors, policy makers, and entrepreneurs, united by a shared commitment to building sustainable opportunity across Africa.

About FirstBank UK:
FirstBank UK is the UK subsidiary of First Bank of Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest and most established financial institutions. With a history spanning over 130 years, FirstBank UK provides a broad range of financial services connecting African and international markets, supporting trade, investment, and economic development across the continent.

About the Mayor of London:
Who We Are | London City Hall (https://apo-opa.co/434mRjX)

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Rasha Kelej met Gabon First Lady to discuss the strategy to continue their joint programs to build healthcare capacity and support girl education

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany officially launched their programs in partnership with H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabonese Republic, also the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, the programs which started in 2024 with the aim to transform patient care, build healthcare capacity, break the stigma of infertility, empower women, support girl education in Gabon and the rest of Africa.

The program was chaired by The First Lady of Gabon, H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, and CEO of Merck Foundation, Dr. Rasha Kelej. The program took place at the State House, Gabon.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign emphasized, “It is a great honor to meet my dear sister, H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabon. We officially declared her as the Ambassador of the ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’ campaign. We also formally launched the Merck Foundation programs in the country and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare and media capacity, patient care landscape transformation, breaking infertility stigma and supporting girl education, together in the country.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp added, “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity across Africa, Asia and other developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patientcare landscape through our scholarships program.”

H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabonese Republic & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “It is a pleasure to welcome and meet Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO to our country. Together we officially launched our joint programs and also celebrated important milestones of the great success of our joint programs to build healthcare capacity, transform patientcare, break infertility stigma and support girl education. This is the first time that we are working on such impactful programs, it is history in the making. We have achieved a lot in a very short span of time, through our long-term partnership, which started in 2024.

I am very proud to share that through our partnership, we have provided 16 scholarships for our local healthcare providers who will be the future healthcare experts of Gabon, who have either graduated, undergoing or will be starting soon the Merck Foundation scholarships of training in critical and underserved specialties such as Fertility, Embryology, Oncology, Diabetes and Hypertension.”

“I am also very happy to share that together with The First Lady of Gabon, we are also supporting girl education by providing annual scholarships to support the education of 40 high-performing yet underprivileged schoolgirls, till they graduate, so that they can reach their potentials and achieve their dreams”, Dr. Rasha Kelej added.

Merck Foundation has provided more than 2600 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Out of the total 16 scholarships provided in Gabon, Merck Foundation has provided:

  • 4 scholarships for Fertility and Embryology. These were hands on practical trainings in India. The first ever embryologist of the country has been trained through the program.
  • 4 scholarships for Diabetes & Hypertension, including a special 3 months Diabetes Mastercourse in French language and Clinical Fellowship in Diabetes and Hypertension. Upon completion of the training, these specialists will have the expertise to establish dedicated clinics in hospitals and health centers, significantly enhancing the prevention and management of diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases, bringing immense benefits to the people of Gabon.
  • 8 Scholarships for Oncology Nursing, which is very critical for cancer care.

During the launch program, the beneficiaries of the Educating Linda program were also present, where a few of them shared inspiring testimonies on how the scholarships have changed their lives.

“I really believe that when the girls are educated, their countries become more powerful, stronger & prosperous”, added Senator Kelej.  

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Gabon has launched seven children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, ‘Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future”, “Sugar free Jude” and “Mark’s Pressure”. These books address critical social and health issues to young children. Few copies of the storybooks were signed by The First Lady of Gabon, Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO. Thousands of copies of these storybooks will be distributed to schoolchildren.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has conducted two editions of their Online Health Media Training for the Gabonese journalists in order to empower them to raise awareness about sensitive issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, ending Child marriage and FGM and raise awareness about diabetes and hypertension prevention and early detection.

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Gabon has also announced the Call for Application for their 8 important annual Awards for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Details of the Awards:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026:  All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

6. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

7. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

Apply here: https://apo-opa.co/4wRS2MZ

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to: submit@merck-foundation.com 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard! 
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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4fLUUVx

About Merck Foundation: 
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4uGEcM5), X (https://apo-opa.co/4uFEPFK), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4dETA5u), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4f9HFOi), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4dMrF3P) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/42ZKR7Z). 

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors. 

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CEO de la Fondation Merck, Dr. Rasha Kelej, a rencontré la Première Dame du Gabon pour discuter de la stratégie visant à poursuivre leurs programmes conjoints visant à renforcer les capacités de soins de santé et à soutenir l’éducation des filles

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, a officiellement lancé ses programmes en partenariat avec S.E. Madame ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, Première Dame de la République Gabonaise, également Ambassadrice de la « Fondation Merck Plus Qu’une Mère », les programmes qui ont débuté en 2024 dans le but de transformer la prise en charge des patients, de renforcer les capacités de soins, de briser la stigmatisation de l’infertilité, d’autonomiser les femmes, de soutenir l’éducation des filles au Gabon et dans le reste de l’Afrique.

Le programme était présidé par la Première Dame du Gabon, S.E. Madame ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, le Chairman du Conseil d’Administration de la Fondation Merck, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, et la CEO de la Fondation Merck, Dr. Rasha Kelej. Le programme a eu lieu à la Présidence, au Gabon.

Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret), CEO de la Fondation Merck et Présidente de la campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère », a souligné : « C’est un grand honneur de rencontrer ma chère sœur, S.E. Madame ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, Première Dame du Gabon. Nous l’avons officiellement déclarée Ambassadrice de la campagne « Fondation Merck Plus Qu’une Mère ». Nous avons également officiellement lancé les programmes de la Fondation Merck dans le pays et avons souligné notre engagement envers le renforcement des capacités de soins de santé et des médias, ainsi que la transformation du paysage des soins aux patients, briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité et soutenir l’éducation des filles, ensemble dans le pays »

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp a ajouté : « Notre objectif est d’améliorer la santé et le bien-être général des populations en renforçant les capacités de soins de santé en Afrique, en Asie et dans d’autres pays en voie de développement. Nous sommes fermement engagés à transformer le paysage des soins aux patients grâce à notre programme de bourses. »

S.E. Madame ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, Première Dame de la République Gabonaise et Ambassadrice de la « Fondation Merck Plus Qu’une Mère », a déclaré : « C’est un plaisir d’accueillir et de rencontrer le Chairman et la CEO de la Fondation Merck dans notre pays. Ensemble, nous avons officiellement lancé nos programmes conjoints et avons également célébré des étapes importantes du grand succès de nos programmes conjoints visant à renforcer les capacités de soins de santé, transformer les soins aux patients, briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité et soutenir l’éducation des filles. C’est la première fois que nous travaillons sur des programmes aussi percutants, c’est une histoire en devenir. Nous avons atteint beaucoup de choses dans un laps de temps très court, grâce à notre partenariat à long terme, qui a débuté en 2024.

Je suis très fière de partager que grâce à notre partenariat, nous avons accordé 16 bourses à nos prestataires de soins de santé locaux qui seront les futurs experts de la santé du Gabon, qui ont obtenu leur diplôme, suivent ou commenceront bientôt les bourses de formation de la Fondation Merck dans des spécialités critiques et mal desservies telles que la Fertilité, Embryologie, Oncologie, Diabète et Hypertension

« Je suis également très heureuse de partager qu’avec la Première Dame du Gabon, nous soutenons également l’éducation des filles en offrant des bourses annuelles pour soutenir l’éducation de 40 écolières très performantes mais défavorisées, jusqu’à ce qu’elles obtiennent leur diplôme, afin qu’elles puissent atteindre leur potentiel et réaliser leurs rêves », a ajouté le Dr. Rasha Kelej.

La Fondation Merck a accordé plus de 2 600 bourses à des prestataires de soins de santé de 52 pays dans 44 spécialités médicales critiques et mal desservies.

Sur un total de 16 bourses accordées au Gabon, la Fondation Merck a fourni :

  • 4 bourses en Fertilité et Embryologie. Il s’agissait de formations pratiques en Inde. Le tout premier embryologiste du pays a été formé grâce à ce programme.
  • 4 bourses pour le Diabète et l’Hypertension, dont un master spécial sur le diabète de 3 mois en langue française et une bourse clinique sur le Diabète et Hypertension. À la fin de la formation, ces spécialistes disposeront de l’expertise nécessaire pour établir des cliniques dédiées dans les hôpitaux et les centres de santé, améliorant ainsi considérablement la prévention et la prise en charge du diabète, de l’hypertension et des maladies cardiaques, apportant d’immenses avantages à la population gabonaise.
  • 8 bourses pour les soins infirmiers en oncologie, ce qui est très essentiel pour les soins contre le cancer.    

Lors du programme de lancement, les bénéficiaires du programme Éduquer Linda étaient également présents, où quelques-uns d’entre eux ont partagé des témoignages inspirants sur la façon dont les bourses ont changé leur vie.

« Je crois vraiment que lorsque les filles sont éduquées, leurs pays deviennent plus puissants, plus forts et plus prospères », a ajouté la Sénatrice Kelej.  

La Fondation Merck, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Gabon, a lancé sept livres d’histoires pour enfants, « Plus Qu’une Mère », « Éduquer Linda », « Le Secours de Jackline », « Pas qui vous êtes », « Une balade vers le futur », « Jude Sans Sucre » et « La Tension de Mark ». Ces livres abordent des problèmes sociaux et sanitaires critiques pour les jeunes enfants. Quelques exemplaires des livres d’histoires ont été signés par la Première Dame du Gabon, le Chairman et la CEO de la Fondation Merck. Des milliers d’exemplaires de ces livres d’histoires seront distribué aux écoliers.

De plus, la Fondation Merck a organisé deux éditions de sa Formation des Médias sur la Santé En Ligne pour les journalistes gabonais afin de leur permettre de sensibiliser à des questions sensibles telles que briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, mettre fin à la VBG, mettre fin au mariage des enfants et aux MGF et sensibiliser sur la prévention et le dépistage précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

La Fondation Merck, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Gabon, a également annoncé l’Appel à Candidatures pour ses 8 importants prix annuels destinés aux médias, musiciens, créateurs de mode, cinéastes, étudiants et nouveaux talents potentiels dans ces domaines.

Détails des Prix :

1. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias Africains de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : les représentants des médias et les étudiants en journalisme sont invités à présenter leur travail pour sensibiliser l’opinion à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

2. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 :  tous les cinéastes africains, étudiants des établissements de formation en réalisation cinématographique ou jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un long ou un court métrage, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame, pour transmettre des messages forts et influents sur un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

3. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour transmettre des messages forts et influents afin de sensibiliser à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

4. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but d’aborder un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

5. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : les représentants des médias sont invités à présenter leur travail à travers des messages forts et influents pour promouvoir un mode de vie sain et sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

6. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les cinéastes africains, étudiants des établissements de formation en réalisation cinématographique ou jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un long ou un court FILMS, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame, pour délivrer des messages forts et influents visant à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

7. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour transmettre des messages forts et influents visant à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

8. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but de promouvoir un mode de vie sain et de sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

Postulez ici : https://apo-opa.co/4wRS2MZ

Les candidatures pour tous les prix doivent être soumises par courrier électronique à : submit@merck-foundation.com 

Distribué par APO Group pour Merck Foundation.

Contact :
Mehak Handa
Responsable du programme de sensibilisation communautaire
Téléphone : +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
E-mail : mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Rejoignez la conversation sur nos plateformes de réseaux sociaux ci-dessous et faites entendre votre voix : 
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Télécharger l’Application de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/4fLUUVx

À propos de la Fondation Merck : 
La Fondation Merck, créée en 2017, est la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, vise à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des populations et à faire progresser leur vie grâce à la science et à la technologie. Nos efforts sont principalement axés sur l’amélioration de l’accès à des solutions de soins de santé de qualité et équitables dans les communautés mal desservies, à renforcer les capacités de recherche sur les soins de santé et la recherche scientifique, l’autonomisation des filles à travers l’éducation et l’autonomisation des personnes en STEM (Science, Technologie, Ingénierie et Mathématiques) avec un accent particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes. Tous les communiqués de presse de la Fondation Merck sont distribués par e-mail en même temps qu’ils deviennent disponibles sur le site Web de la Fondation Merck. Veuillez visiter www.Merck-Foundation.com pour en savoir plus. Pour en savoir plus, contactez nos réseaux sociaux de la Fondation Merck : Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4uGEcM5), X (https://apo-opa.co/4uFEPFK), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4dETA5u), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4f9HFOi), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4dMrF3P) et Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/42ZKR7Z). 

La Fondation Merck se consacre à l’amélioration des résultats sociaux et sanitaires pour les communautés dans le besoin. Bien qu’elle collabore avec divers partenaires, y compris des gouvernements, pour atteindre ses objectifs humanitaires, la fondation reste strictement neutre sur le plan politique. Elle ne s’engage pas et ne soutient pas d’activités, d’élections ou de régimes politiques, se focalise uniquement sur sa mission d’élever l’humanité et d’améliorer le bien-être tout en maintenant une position strictement apolitique dans toutes ses activités. 

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Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck, reuniu-se com Primeira-Dama do Gabão para discutir a estratégia de continuidade dos programas conjuntos de fortalecimento da capacidade do sistema de saúde e apoio à educação de meninas

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha lançou oficialmente os seus programas em parceria com S. Exa. a Sra. Zita Oligui Nguema, Primeira-Dama da República Gabonesa e também Embaixadora da “Fundação Merck Mais do que uma Mãe”. Os programas, que começaram em 2024, têm como objectivo transformar o atendimento ao paciente, desenvolver a capacidade do sistema de saúde, quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, empoderar mulheres e apoiar a educação de meninas no Gabão e no resto da África.

O programa foi presidido pela Primeira-Dama do Gabão, S. Exa. a Sra. Zita Oligui Nguema, pelo Presidente do Conselho de Curadores da Fundação Merck, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, ​​e pela CEO da Fundação Merck, Dra. Rasha Kelej. O evento aconteceu no Palácio Presidencial, no Gabão.

A Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej (aposentada), CEO da Fundação Merck e Presidente da campanha “Mais do que uma Mãe”, enfatizou: “É uma grande honra manter encontro com a minha querida irmã, S.E. a Sra. Zita Oligui Nguema, Primeira-Dama do Gabão. Declaramos oficialmente a sua nomeação como Embaixadora da campanha Fundação Merck ‘Mais do que uma Mãe’. Também lançamos formalmente os programas da Fundação Merck no país e reforçamos o nosso compromisso com o desenvolvimento da capacidade dos sectores da saúde e mídia, a transformação do cenário de atendimento ao paciente, o combate ao estigma da infertilidade e o apoio à educação de meninas, em conjunto no país.”

O Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp acrescentou: “O nosso objectivo é melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar geral das pessoas, desenvolvendo a capacidade dos serviços de saúde em África, Ásia e outros países em desenvolvimento. Estamos fortemente comprometidos com a transformação do cenário de atendimento ao paciente através do nosso programa de bolsas de estudo.”

S.E. A Sra. Zita Oligui Nguema, Primeira-Dama da República Gabonesa e Embaixadora da “Fundação Merck Mais do que uma Mãe”, declarou: “É um prazer receber e manter encontro com Presidente e a CEO da Fundação Merck no nosso país. Juntos, lançamos oficialmente os nossos programas conjuntos e também celebramos marcos importantes do grande sucesso dos nossos programas conjuntos para desenvolver a capacidade da área da saúde, transformar o atendimento ao paciente, quebrar o estigma da infertilidade e apoiar a educação de meninas. Esta é a primeira vez que trabalhamos em programas de tão grande impacto; estamos a fazer história. Conquistamos muito num curto período de tempo, através da nossa parceria de longo prazo, que começou em 2024.

Tenho muito orgulho de partilhar que, através da nossa parceria, concedemos 16 bolsas de estudo para os nossos profissionais de saúde locais, que serão os futuros especialistas em saúde do Gabão, que já se formaram, estão a formar-se ou iniciarão em breve as bolsas de estudo da Fundação Merck para treinamento em especialidades críticas e carentes, como Fertilidade, Embriologia, Oncologia, Diabetes e Hipertensão.”

“Também tenho muita satisfação em partilhar que, juntamente com a Primeira-Dama do Gabão, estamos a apoiar a educação de meninas, oferecendo bolsas de estudo anuais para 40 alunas de alto desempenho, porém carentes, até a formatura, para que possam alcançar o seu potencial e realizar os seus sonhos”, acrescentou a Dra. Rasha Kelej.

A Fundação Merck concedeu mais de 2.600 bolsas de estudo para profissionais de saúde de 52 países em 44 especialidades médicas críticas e carentes.

Do total de 16 bolsas de estudo concedidas no Gabão, a Fundação Merck ofereceu:

  • 4 bolsas de estudo para Fertilidade e Embriologia. Essas bolsas consistiram em treinamentos práticos na Índia. O primeiro embriologista do país foi formado através do programa.
     
  • 4 bolsas de estudo para Diabetes e Hipertensão, incluindo um curso de mestrado especial de 3 meses em Diabetes em francês e uma especialização clínica em Diabetes e Hipertensão. Ao concluírem o treinamento, esses especialistas terão conhecimento necessário para estabelecer clínicas dedicadas em hospitais e centros de saúde, aprimorando significativamente a prevenção e o controlo de diabetes, hipertensão e doenças cardíacas, trazendo imensos benefícios para a população do Gabão.
    ​
  • 8 Bolsas de Estudo para Enfermagem Oncológica, área crucial para o tratamento do câncer.

Durante o programa de lançamento, as beneficiárias do programa Educar Linda também estiveram presentes, e algumas delas compartilharam testemunhos inspiradores sobre como as bolsas de estudo transformaram as suas vidas.

“Eu realmente acredito que, quando as meninas são formadas, os seus países tornam-se mais poderosos, fortes e prósperos”, acrescentou a Senadora Kelej.

A Fundação Merck, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama do Gabão, lançou sete livros infantis: “Mais do que uma Mãe”, “Educar Linda”, “Resgate da Jaqueline”, “Você Não É Quem É”, “Viagem ao Futuro”, “Jude Livre de Açúcar” e “Pressão de Mark”. Esses livros abordam questões sociais e de saúde cruciais para crianças pequenas. Alguns exemplares dos livros foram autografados pela Primeira-Dama do Gabão, pelo Presidente e CEO da Fundação Merck. Milhares de exemplares desses livros serão distribuídos para alunos de escolas.

Além disso, a Fundação Merck realizou duas edições do seu Treinamento Online de Mídia em Saúde para jornalistas gaboneses, a fim de capacitá-los a conscientizar sobre questões sensíveis, como quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, combater a violência do género, acabar com o casamento infantil e a mutilação genital feminina, e conscientizar sobre a prevenção e detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

A Fundação Merck, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama do Gabão, também anunciou a Chamada para Candidaturas para os seus 8 importantes Prémios anuais de Jornalismo, Canção, de Moda, Cinema, para estudantes e novos talentos com potencial nessas áreas.

Informações sobre os Prémios:

1. Prémio de Jornalismo África Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Representantes da mídia e estudantes de comunicação são convidados a apresentar seus trabalhos para conscientizar sobre uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Combater o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou erradicar a violência de gênero em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

2. Prémio do Cinema Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026:  Todos os cineastas africanos, estudantes de instituições de formação cinematográfica ou jovens talentos da África estão convidados a criar e compartilhar um filme ou curta-metragem, seja drama, documentário ou docudrama, que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes que abordem uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou combater a violência do género em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Todos os estudantes e estilistas de moda africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar designs que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes para conscientizar sobre uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderamento feminino, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou combater a violência de gênero em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Todos os cantores e artistas musicais africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar uma MÚSICA com o objectivo de abordar uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou acabar com a violência do género em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

5. Prémio de Jornalismo Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Os representantes da mídia são convidados a apresentar o seu trabalho través de mensagens fortes e impactantes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

6. Prémio do Cinema Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os cineastas africanos, estudantes de instituições de formação cinematográfica ou jovens talentos da África estão convidados a criar e compartilhar um filme ou curta-metragem, seja drama, documentário ou docudrama, que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes que promovam um estilo de vida saudável e aumentem a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce de diabetes e hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

7. Prémio de Moda Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os estudantes e designers de moda africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar designs que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

8. Prémio da Canção Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os cantores e artistas musicais africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar uma música com o objectivo de promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

Inscreva-se aqui: https://apo-opa.co/4wRS2MZ

As inscrições para todos os prêmios devem ser enviadas por e-mail para: submit@merck-foundation.com 

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Junte-se à conversa nas plataformas das nossas mídias sociais e deixe a sua voz ser ouvida! 
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4uGEcM5
X: https://apo-opa.co/4uFEPFK
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4f9HFOi
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4dETA5u
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4dMrF3P
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/42ZKR7Z
Site: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Baixar a Aplicação da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/4fLUUVx

Sobre a Fundação Merck: 
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha, tem como objectivo melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e aprimorar as suas vidas atravez da ciência e da tecnologia. Os nossos esforços estão focados principalmente na melhoria do acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carenciadas, no desenvolvimento da capacidade de saúde e na investigação científica, no empoderamento das raparigas na educação e no empoderamento de pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática) com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck. Visite www.Merck-Foundation.com para ler mais. Siga a mídia social da Fundação Merck: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4uGEcM5), X (https://apo-opa.co/4uFEPFK), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4dETA5u), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4f9HFOi), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4dMrF3P) e Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/42ZKR7Z).

A Fundação Merck está dedicada a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde para comunidades necessitadas. Embora colabore com vários parceiros, incluindo governos, para atingir os seus objectivos humanitários, a Fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Ela não se envolve ou apoia nenhuma actividade política, eleições ou regimes, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e melhorar o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

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« Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola » fait son entrée dans le top 3 des nouveautés Amazon

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


« Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola » – le dernier ouvrage de NJ Ayuk, largement reconnu comme président de l’African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.com) et l’une des voix les plus influentes en matière de politique énergétique, d’investissement et de développement industriel en Afrique – s’est hissé dans le top 3 des nouveautés Amazon après son lancement le 20 mai 2026. Cet ouvrage propose une analyse rigoureuse et approfondie du paysage énergétique angolais, retraçant son évolution à travers les cycles de réforme, d’investissement et de changement institutionnel, tout en situant le pays dans le contexte plus large de la transformation du secteur des hydrocarbures en Afrique.

Dans cet ouvrage, Ayuk présente l’Angola comme une étude de cas convaincante illustrant comment des réformes axées sur le marché et un réajustement des politiques peuvent contribuer à relever les défis structurels de longue date dans l’industrie pétrolière et gazière africaine. Il soutient qu’une réforme durable, fondée sur la transparence, la prévisibilité réglementaire et la confiance des investisseurs, a le potentiel de débloquer des flux de capitaux, de renforcer les capacités institutionnelles, de stimuler le développement des entreprises locales et d’élargir considérablement l’accès à une énergie fiable et abordable.

Alliant contexte historique et analyse contemporaine, Crude Oil retrace le développement du secteur pétrolier angolais, y compris l’héritage des contraintes de gouvernance et leurs implications économiques durables. Il examine également comment les récents changements de politique sous l’impulsion des dirigeants nationaux sont en train de redéfinir l’approche du pays en matière de gouvernance des ressources dans les domaines du pétrole, du gaz naturel, des énergies renouvelables et des minéraux critiques, annonçant un réajustement stratégique plus large de son avenir énergétique.

« L’histoire de l’Angola est celle d’une transformation – la preuve qu’avec les bonnes réformes, la transparence et un climat d’investissement favorable, les nations riches en ressources peuvent transformer leur potentiel en prospérité », déclare Ayuk. « Ce livre explique comment l’Afrique peut prendre le contrôle de son avenir énergétique et mettre en place des systèmes qui fonctionnent pour sa population. »

Le secteur pétrolier angolais aborde l’année 2026 à un moment structurel charnière, conciliant une production offshore mature avec un programme de réforme et de diversification de plus en plus délibéré. La production reste ancrée autour de la barre du million de barils par jour, soutenue par des investissements soutenus en eaux profondes et un développement ciblé visant à compenser le déclin naturel des champs vieillissants. Parallèlement, l’avancement des projets de gaz non associé – notamment Quiluma et Maboqueiro – marque un tournant stratégique vers un système énergétique plus intégré et incluant le gaz. Alors que le pétrole brut continue de sous-tendre la stabilité budgétaire, les décideurs politiques mettent de plus en plus l’accent sur l’expansion en aval, l’amélioration de la compétitivité des investissements et une diversification économique plus large afin de réduire l’exposition à long terme à la volatilité des hydrocarbures.

Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola est désormais disponible à la vente. Achetez le livre sur Amazon

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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«Petróleo Bruto: Poder, Reviravolta e Transformação em Angola» estreia-se no Top 3 dos Lançamentos da Amazon

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola – a mais recente obra de NJ Ayuk, amplamente reconhecido como presidente da Câmara Africana de Energia (www.EnergyChamber.com)  e uma das vozes mais influentes em matéria de política energética, investimento e desenvolvimento industrial em África – surgiu no Top 3 dos Lançamentos da Amazon após o seu lançamento a 20 de maio de 2026. O livro oferece uma análise rigorosa e profundamente documentada do panorama energético de Angola, traçando a sua evolução através de ciclos de reforma, investimento e mudança institucional, ao mesmo tempo que situa o país no contexto da transformação mais ampla do setor dos hidrocarbonetos em África.

No livro, Ayuk posiciona Angola como um estudo de caso convincente de como as reformas orientadas para o mercado e o reajustamento das políticas podem ajudar a enfrentar desafios estruturais de longa data em toda a indústria de petróleo e gás africana. Ele argumenta que uma reforma sustentada, ancorada na transparência, na previsibilidade regulatória e na confiança dos investidores, tem o potencial de desbloquear fluxos de capital, fortalecer a capacidade institucional, estimular o desenvolvimento empresarial local e expandir significativamente o acesso a energia fiável e acessível.

Combinando o contexto histórico com a análise contemporânea, Crude Oil traça o desenvolvimento do setor petrolífero de Angola, incluindo o legado das restrições de governação e as suas implicações económicas duradouras. Examina também como as recentes mudanças políticas sob a liderança nacional estão a remodelar a abordagem do país à governação dos recursos em petróleo, gás natural, energias renováveis e minerais críticos, sinalizando um reajuste estratégico mais amplo do seu futuro energético.

«A história de Angola é uma história de transformação – a prova de que, com as reformas certas, transparência e um clima de investimento favorável, as nações ricas em recursos podem transformar o potencial em prosperidade», afirma Ayuk. «Este livro trata de como África pode assumir o controlo do seu futuro energético e construir sistemas que funcionem para a sua população.»

O setor petrolífero de Angola entra em 2026 num momento estrutural crucial, equilibrando a produção offshore madura com uma agenda de reformas e diversificação cada vez mais deliberada. A produção mantém-se ancorada perto da marca de um milhão de barris por dia, apoiada por um investimento sustentado em águas profundas e por um desenvolvimento direcionado, concebido para compensar o declínio natural dos campos envelhecidos. Ao mesmo tempo, o avanço de projetos de gás não associado — mais notavelmente Quiluma e Maboqueiro — sinaliza uma mudança estratégica para um sistema energético mais integrado e inclusivo do gás. Embora o petróleo bruto continue a sustentar a estabilidade fiscal, os decisores políticos estão a dar cada vez mais ênfase à expansão a jusante, à melhoria da competitividade do investimento e a uma diversificação económica mais ampla, com vista a reduzir a exposição a longo prazo à volatilidade dos hidrocarbonetos.

Petróleo Bruto: Poder, Recuperação e Transformação em Angola já se encontra disponível para compra. Compre o livro na Amazon

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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‘Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola’ Debuts as Top 3 Amazon New Release

Source: APO


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Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola – the latest work from NJ Ayuk, widely recognized as Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.com) and one of the most influential voices on African energy policy, investment and industrial development – has emerged as a Top 3 Amazon New Release following its launch on May 20, 2026. The book offers a rigorous and deeply researched examination of Angola’s energy landscape, tracing its evolution through cycles of reform, investment and institutional change, while situating the country within the broader transformation of Africa’s hydrocarbon sector.

Within the book, Ayuk positions Angola as a compelling case study for how market-oriented reforms and policy recalibration can help address long-standing structural challenges across Africa’s oil and gas industry. He argues that sustained reform anchored in transparency, regulatory predictability and investor confidence has the potential to unlock capital inflows, strengthen institutional capacity, stimulate local enterprise development and significantly expand access to reliable and affordable energy.

Blending historical context with contemporary analysis, Crude Oil traces the development of Angola’s petroleum sector, including the legacy of governance constraints and their lasting economic implications. It also examines how recent policy shifts under national leadership are reshaping the country’s approach to resource governance across oil, natural gas, renewable energy and critical minerals, signaling a broader strategic recalibration of its energy future.

“Angola’s story is one of transformation – proof that with the right reforms, transparency and investment climate, resource-rich nations can turn potential into prosperity,” says Ayuk. “This book is about how Africa can take control of its energy future and build systems that work for its people.”

Angola’s oil sector enters 2026 at a pivotal structural moment, balancing mature offshore production with an increasingly deliberate reform and diversification agenda. Output remains anchored near the one million barrels per day mark, supported by sustained deepwater investment and targeted development designed to offset natural decline from aging fields. At the same time, the advancement of non-associated gas projects – most notably Quiluma and Maboqueiro – signals a strategic shift toward a more integrated, gas-inclusive energy system. While crude oil continues to underpin fiscal stability, policymakers are placing growing emphasis on downstream expansion, improved investment competitiveness and broader economic diversification to reduce long-term exposure to hydrocarbon volatility.

Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola is now available for purchase. Buy the book on Amazon (https://apo-opa.co/4vekw1I)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Steenhuisen calls for acceleration of regional fertiliser reforms and disease control

Source: Government of South Africa

Steenhuisen calls for acceleration of regional fertiliser reforms and disease control

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has called on Southern African Development Community (SADC) Member States to urgently accelerate regional cooperation on food security, fertiliser regulation, and animal disease control amid mounting economic and climate pressures across the region.

Addressing the SADC Joint Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Agriculture, Food Security, Fisheries and Aquaculture in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, on Friday, 29 May 2026, Steenhuisen warned that fragmented agricultural systems and delayed reforms were increasing the vulnerability of Southern African countries to global shocks.

The Minister noted that the meeting took place during a period of considerable geopolitical and economic volatility.

“Across the world, we are seeing disruptions to supply chains, rising input costs — particularly fertiliser prices — inflationary pressures, and growing competition over strategic resources. These global shocks are increasingly intersecting with climate-related disasters, including droughts, floods and disease outbreaks in ways that directly affect African agriculture and food systems,” Steenhuisen said.

Although regional assessments indicate some improvement in cereal production following last season’s severe drought, Steenhuisen said an estimated 58 million people across Southern African Development Community (SADC) Member States still face acute food insecurity due to issues around access and affordability.

“This reality demands urgency from all of us,” he said.

The three-day meeting, which started on 27 May 2026, is aimed at discussing regional issues to advance food and nutrition security, and the blue economy in the SADC region.

Steenhuisen was chairing the meeting, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Joint Committee of SADC Ministers of Agriculture and Food Security, Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Steenhuisen emphasised that Harmonisation of the Fertiliser Regulatory Framework across SADC can no longer be delayed.

“We cannot continue entering each planting season fragmented by unharmonised standards, duplicative registration systems and regulatory bottlenecks that unnecessarily increase costs for farmers and slow regional trade,” he said.

Steenhuisen urged Member States to fast-track the proposed Memorandum of Understanding on the Harmonisation of Fertiliser Regulatory Frameworks.

“The proposed Memorandum of Understanding on the Harmonisation of Fertiliser Regulatory Frameworks is urgently needed and, in South Africa’s view, should be fast-tracked well before 2027. This is not simply a technical regulatory exercise, it is a food security imperative, a productivity imperative and increasingly a strategic resilience imperative for the entire region,” Steenhuisen said.

FMD posed major threat to livestock production

The Minister also warned that Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks across Southern Africa posed a major threat to livestock production, rural livelihoods, trade and regional food systems.

According to Steenhuisen, 11 SADC member states have reported outbreaks.

“The scale of the current FMD outbreaks across Southern Africa should concern every one of us. For many families across our region, livestock are not simply commercial assets. They are stores of wealth, sources of nutrition, draft power, school fees and household survival.

“When animal disease spreads unchecked, the impact reaches far beyond the farm gate. It affects food affordability, market access, export earnings and economic stability across the entire region,” the Minister said.

Steenhuisen said South Africa supported the development of a regional coordination framework for FMD control, including stronger surveillance systems, harmonised movement controls, improved information sharing and coordinated vaccination efforts.

He also supported proposals for the establishment of a SADC regional FMD vaccine bank, saying preparedness would be less costly than prolonged outbreaks and delayed responses.

“Animal diseases do not respect borders. A weakness in one part of the region quickly becomes a vulnerability for all of us,” he said.

The Minister further called for a stronger “One Health” approach that integrates animal health, human health, ecosystems and food systems into regional disease management strategies.

Steenhuisen said the broader transformation of African agriculture under the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and the Kampala Declaration must move beyond “reporting exercises” and focus on practical delivery.

“For SADC, this means moving beyond fragmented implementation towards practical regional delivery,” he said, citing the need for expanded agricultural trade, climate resilience, modernised sanitary and phytosanitary systems, irrigation investment and greater opportunities for women and young people.”

Steenhuisen reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to working with SADC member states, regional institutions and international partners to strengthen agricultural resilience and food security across Southern Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

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Constitutional promises kept as communities receive title deeds

Source: Government of South Africa

Constitutional promises kept as communities receive title deeds

In a major stride towards correcting historical injustices, government has officially handed over title deeds to the Gaesegwe, Barolong ba ga Rapulana, Barolong ba ga Phoi and Barolong ba ga Seitshiro communities at the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality in the North West province.

The day – billed as a “day of celebration” by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who presided over the ceremony – marks a milestone in government’s efforts to accelerate land reform.

“We are celebrating because the dignity of communities is restored. For many of you, this day has been a long time coming. Today is the culmination of a struggle for land that has become a reality.

“When Chief Gaesegwe Henry Phoi submitted his community’s land claim on 9 July 1996, he was acting on a constitutional promise this country had just made to itself,” the President said on Friday.

South Africa’s Constitution guarantees that any person or community dispossessed of land after 19 June 1913 is entitled to restitution or equitable redress.

The apartheid government’s 1913 Natives Land Act stripped millions of black South Africans of their land, assets, livelihoods and communities, with the effects of that brutal law still visible across the country today.

“Our Constitution, which was adopted 30 years ago, says that any person or community dispossessed of land after 19 June 1913 is entitled to restitution of that property or equitable redress.

“So, when I hand over these title deeds today, I am fulfilling a Constitutional responsibility,” President Ramaphosa said.

More than 368 title deeds were handed over to families, transitioning their occupational rights into secure, formal ownership.

Furthermore, some 20 local farmers who previously leased state land received full freehold titles, effectively elevating them from tenants to commercial landowners.

Additionally, the President handed over title deeds to three Communal Property Associations who represent communities who were brutally removed from their land by force and have “spent decades working through the legal and administrative processes to get it back”.

“A title deed in a drawer does not on its own transform a family or a community’s fortunes. A farm with no equipment, no water, no capital and no support will not meet people’s needs. It does not close the inequality gap and it does not build the rural economy we need. The title deed is the foundation on which we must build.

“That is why we are handing over productive assets and confirming that post-settlement support is in place. We are committed to making these farms work.

“We are committed to ensuring that the townships being established at Setlagole and Madibogo have the sites they need for businesses, community facilities and government services,” the President said.

The President assured those that are still waiting for their Constitutional promise to be fulfilled that “we have not forgotten you”.

“In 1913, the Natives Land Act took from our people what they had built over generations. In 1996, the democratic Constitution gave a clear instruction to return the land to individuals and communities.

“Today, we are using the laws and institutions of our democracy to restore what was taken.

“We are not only correcting a historical injustice. We are building a fairer, more sustainable and more prosperous future for these communities. And in doing so, we are building a better country for all,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Title Deed Handover Ceremony, Setlagole Sports Ground, North West

Source: President of South Africa –

Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso,
Premier of the North West, Mr Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi,
Representatives of the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights,
Mayors and Speakers of local municipalities, 
Dikgosi and traditional leadership of the Barolong communities,
Recipients of title deeds,
Compatriots,
Dumelang. Molweni. Ndi masiari. Good morning. 
Today is a day of celebration. 

We are celebrating because the dignity of communities is restored. 

For many of you this day has been a long time coming.

Today is the culmination of a struggle for land that has become a reality. 

When Chief Gaesegwe Henry Phoi submitted his community’s land claim on 9 July 1996, he was acting on a constitutional promise this country had just made to itself. 

Our Constitution, which was adopted 30 years ago, says that any person or community dispossessed of land after 19 June 1913 is entitled to restitution of that property or equitable redress. 

So, when I hand over these title deeds today, I am fulfilling a Constitutional responsibility. 

But today is not just about the law. 

It is about a family being able to say: this land is ours. 

It sends a clear message that never again will someone’s land be taken away based on the colour of their skin, background or location. 

More than a century ago, in 1913, the Natives Land Act stripped millions of black South Africans of their birthright. They were deprived of their land, their assets, their livelihoods and their community.

The effects of this law – and the subsequent laws of dispossession – are still visible across our country. 

Land dispossession is at the root of inequality in South Africa today. 

That is the history we are correcting. 

Today’s event is unique in many ways. 

We are not here to hand over just one deed or to celebrate one community. 

Today, three distinct programmes of land reform converge in this district, addressing different dimensions of injustice and dispossession.

The first part of the programme involves the communities of Setlagole and Madibogo. 

For many years, families in these two villages built homes, erected structures, enrolled their children in local schools and lived their lives on land they did not formally own. 

Their rights to the land were occupational, informal and insecure. 

Through the Upgrading of Land Tenure Rights Programme, we are handing over 368 individual title deeds to households at Setlagole and Madibogo. 

The townships that have been formally established here include business sites, creche sites, church sites, open spaces and facilities for government and municipal services.

We will continue to work to ensure every household in both townships has a deed in their hand. 

As part of the second programme, we are handing over title deeds to 20 farmers across all four district municipalities in the province.

The state land that they have been leasing for farming activities has now been converted to full freehold title. 

They are no longer tenants. They are now farm owners. 

The third programme is land restitution. 

Today we are handing over title deeds to three Communal Property Associations.

They represent communities whose ancestors farmed this land, were removed from it by force and have spent decades working through the legal and administrative processes to get it back. 

Today, we hand over seven title deeds, covering over 4,000 hectares, to the Gaesegwe Communal Property Association, representing the Barolong Ba Ga Phoi community.

The Barolong Ba Ga Rapulana Communal Property Association is receiving three title deeds covering 411 hectares. 

Over 26,000 hectares have already been restored to this community. 

And we are handing over eleven title deeds, covering over 2,900 hectares, to the Barolong Ba Ga Seitshiro Communal Property Association.

However, we know that land alone is not enough. 

A title deed in a drawer does not on its own transform a family or a community’s fortunes. A farm with no equipment, no water, no capital and no support will not meet people’s needs. 

It does not close the inequality gap and it does not build the rural economy we need. 

The title deed is the foundation on which we must build. 

That is why we are handing over productive assets and confirming that post-settlement support is in place. 

We are committed to making these farms work. 

We are committed to ensuring that the townships being established at Setlagole and Madibogo have the sites they need for businesses, community facilities and government services. 

Formal title means these households can now access mortgage credit, small business finance and development grants that were previously unavailable. 

Our commitment is to walk alongside these communities not just today, but in the years ahead. 

Section 25 of our Constitution guarantees legally secure tenure to every person whose tenure was made insecure by past discriminatory laws. It requires the state to foster conditions that enable equitable access to land. 

When communities wait for years — sometimes decades — for those rights to be realised, that is a failure we must acknowledge honestly. 

That is why we are working to fast-track the programme, resource it properly and streamline the processes. 

The handover of title deeds today is significant. But it is not the end. 

We will accelerate the outstanding claims and restore the dignity of our communities. 

Our commitment to completing the work of land reform is undiminished. 

The Restitution of Land Rights Act remains in force. 

Our Communal Land Administration and related legislative work continues. 

The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Agriculture and Land Reform is actively driving the conversion of state land leases to freehold title across the country. 

Progress like this does not happen through the efforts of a single department or a single sphere of government. 

What you see today is the result of years of work by hundreds of dedicated officials, community representatives, professional practitioners and elected leaders across many institutions. 

I want to acknowledge Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso and the entire team at the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development – particularly the North West Provincial Shared Service Centre and the Office of the Regional Land Claims Commissioner – for the sustained effort that brought us to this point. 

We thank the town planners, land surveyors, conveyancers and property management officials whose technical work made these title deeds possible. 

We must acknowledge the Premier’s Office, the North West Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Department of Human Settlements for creating the conditions for integrated development. 

I acknowledge the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, Ratlou Local Municipality, Ditsobotla Local Municipality, Tswaing Local Municipality and the Surveyor General and Vryburg Deeds Office. 

The coordination of this event across all those institutions is a demonstration of what capable, committed government can achieve. 

Above all, I acknowledge the Dikgosi and traditional leadership of these communities.

They held their communities together through the long years of waiting, gave legitimacy to the claim process and continue to serve as the custodians of the culture, land and social fabric of their people. 

To every person whose claim is still outstanding: we have not forgotten you. 

In 1913, the Natives Land Act took from our people what they had built over generations. 

In 1996, the democratic Constitution gave a clear instruction to return the land to individuals and communities. 

Today, we are using the laws and institutions of our democracy to restore what was taken. 

We are not only correcting a historical injustice. We are building a fairer, more sustainable and more prosperous future for these communities. And in doing so, we are building a better country for all.

Ke a leboha. Siyabonga. Re a leboga. 

Ndiyabulela.

I thank you.