Category: MIL-OSI

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Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9): African Development Bank to focus on partnerships and investment at 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development

Source: APO


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The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) will participate in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) (https://apo-opa.co/4fLythd) taking place in Yokohama, Japan from 20-22 August.

This year’s conference takes place at a critical time as Africa seeks to close investment gaps and build resilience to global economic and climate shocks. The African Development Bank stands as a key driver of this transformation for the continent, leveraging its leadership to mobilise international support, particularly from Japan.

Co-hosted by United Nations, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), The World Bank and African Union Commission (AUC), TICAD has been running for more than three decades since the first conference, TICAD I, in 1993. The forum has proved itself a solid catalyst to Africa’s development agenda, mainly through grant aid and technical assistance.

Among the delegates from the African Development Bank attending the conference are Kevin Kariuki, Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth; Solomon Quaynor, Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure, Industrialisation; Nnenna Nwabufo, Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery; Kevin Urama, Chief Economist and Vice President for Economic Governance & Knowledge Management, and several directors.

Over the years, the African Development Bank’s collaboration with Japan through TICAD, has evolved into a dynamic platform for development finance, knowledge exchange, and private sector engagement. Through programmes like the Enhanced Private Sector Assistance (EPSA) initiative, Japan’s support to the Bank has resulted in billions in co-financing for African businesses and infrastructure as well as important support to capital replenishment.

In addition, strategic partnerships with Japanese agencies such as Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI), continue to advance the Bank’s High 5 development goals. These partnerships have supported transformative projects in energy, transport, health, and climate resilience across the continent.

Enhanced Private Sector Assistance for Africa (EPSA)

The Enhanced Private Sector Assistance for Africa or EPSA (https://apo-opa.co/47AVK3i) Initiative, is a framework for resource mobilization and development partnership to support the implementation of the Bank’s Strategy for Private Sector Development.

Drawing on successful development experience in Asia and around the globe, EPSA, which was conceived in partnership with the Government of Japan in 2005, consists of four main pillars:

  • (1) Accelerated Co-financing Facility for Africa (ACFA),
  • (2) Non-Sovereign Loans (NSL),
  • (3) Fund for African Private Sector Assistance (FAPA), and
  • (4) Private sector investment finance.

An extension of the agreement – EPSA6 – is expected to be signed during TICAD9.

Recognizing the private sector’s importance in African development, the African Development Bank will host side events to encourage Japanese investment in key areas such as green hydrogen, Mission 300 (https://apo-opa.co/4lC1pcX) transportation, health, agriculture, and education.

The Africa Investment Forum (https://apo-opa.co/4mTcs2w), a partnership of the African Development Bank and eight other institutions will also be promoted as an innovative investment marketplace for attracting capital for projects on the continent.

During the Forum’s Market Days held in December 2024 in Morocco, a special event raised awareness about Africa as an investment destination for Japanese investors. The Japan Special Room titled: “Agricultural Innovation & Green Growth: Transforming Africa’s Investment Landscape” was organized with approximately 100 participants, including representatives from Japanese companies, startups, and other public institutions.

Accessing Resilient Energy for Africa

On Tuesday, a day before the official opening of TICAD9, an event organized by JICA and other partners highlighted one of the continent’s major challenges – the energy gap in Africa.

Over 200 representatives from government, ministers and development partners attended the “Harnessing Innovation, Co-creation, and Knowledge for Accessible and Resilient Energy for Africa,” event, which was held in person and online.

Without energy, the bedrock of infrastructure for crucial development cannot be realized. Yet persistent underinvestment in energy infrastructure is one of the continent’s major hurdles, African Development Bank Director of Energy Financial Solutions, Policy and Regulation Department Wale Shonibare, who moderated the session said.

Setting the stage for the conversation, he said Africa’s 600 million people without access to reliable energy represent 83% of people with energy access lack globally affecting 2 out of 3 Africans. A further 900 million have no access to clean cooking, while Nigeria DRC, Ethiopia, Uganda and Tanzania together have half the population of no access, Shonibare said.

Stressing the significance of TICAD as a platform to provide innovation and solutions through partnerships and investment, he noted: “We see enormous potential in Africa’s regional power pools…Today’s session is both timely and catalytic.”

The African Development Bank will organize several sessions covering a range of key development topics during the TICAD. Among these, two flagship events will be co-hosted in partnership with the Ministry of Finance. Further details on these events can be found below.

  1. High-Level Policy Dialogue: Harnessing the Potential of Africa (Link) (https://apo-opa.co/3Ux82Cl)

Date: Thursday, 21 August
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM (Tokyo time)
Venue: S-01, Hall D, PACIFICO Yokohama & Zoom

  1. High-Level Business Session: Emerging Partnership between Japan and Africa (Link) (https://apo-opa.co/3JoQCWg)

Date: Thursday, 21 August
Time: 12:40 PM – 2:10 PM (Tokyo time)
Venue: S-01, Hall D, PACIFICO Yokohama & Zoom (https://apo-opa.co/41JQZAH)
 

Learn more about the TICAD9 conference here (https://apo-opa.co/4fLythd).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact:
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Communication and External Relations Department
email: media@afdb.org

Yuna Choi
email: y.choi@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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Remarks by Deputy President Paulus Mashatile during a working visit to the Amampondo Ase-Nyandeni Kingship, Eastern Cape Province

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director, Mr Zolile Williams – MEC for COGTA Chief Langa (Bakhulule);
Our host, His Majesty, King Ndamase Ndamase of Amampondo Asenyandeni; Ndlovuyezwe!
Queen Madosini and Members of the Royal Family;
Acting Premier of the Eastern Cape, Mr Zolile Williams and all MEC’s present here today;
Executive Mayor of OR Tambo District Municipality, Cllr MesuliNgqondwana and all Mayors present;
Amakhosi aseNdlunkulu wonke;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers
Senior Officials from Government, Private Sector and other Entities;

Kubantu bonke baseNyandeni;
Ndiyanibulela nonke ngokungamukela ngezandla ezishushu.

Today we started our day by paying a courtesy visit to His Majesty King Ndamase Ndamase at eNyandeni Royal Palace.

Our government acknowledges the authority of traditional leaders, their role in promoting social cohesion, and addressing developmental issues within their communities. 

(Urhulumente wethu uyaqonda ukuba abalawuli nee Nkosi zakwa Ntu banegunya, banendima ebalulekileyo ekukhuthazeni ubumbano kuluntu, nasekuqwalaseleni imiba yophuhliso kwiindawo zabo).
We are here to engage with this community to get a high-level overview of the service delivery issues affecting the AmaMpondo Kingship and how best to strengthen our collaboration with the Kingdom.

This visit is part of a larger initiative to engage traditional leadership in the national development agenda and promote collaboration between traditional authorities and the government.

Specifically, we are here from different spheres of government, bound together by the District Development Model to create a platform for government and other entities to engage with His Majesty King of AmaMpondo aseNyandeni on service delivery issues affecting the Kingship and areas under its jurisdiction.

Our hope is that by working together, we can speed up the delivery of services that the traditional community relies on and support the Kingdom as they strive to develop their community.

This institution not only has a place in the new democracy but also has the potential to transform and contribute significantly to restoring the moral fabric of our society. 

Additionally, it plays a crucial role in the reconstruction and development of the country, particularly in rural areas.

Traditional Leadership also plays a critical role in ensuring that the conditions for democratic governance and stability in rural areas are created so that accelerated service delivery and sustainable development can be achieved.

The Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, 2019 (Act no. 3 of 2019), allows Traditional Leadership Institutions to participate in development programmes by advising the government on the needs of traditional communities and holding the government accountable for improving the lives of the people of traditional communities.

His Majesty King Ndamase Ndamase, if we are both accountable to each other as leaders, we have the invaluable opportunity to leverage the deep-rooted understanding of our community’s needs and challenges. (Obekekileyo uKumkani uNdamase Ndamase, ukuba sobabini sinoxanduva omnye komnye njengeenkokheli, sinethuba elixabisekileyo lokusebenzisa iingcambu ezinzulu).

I believe that the wisdom of traditional leaders can guide us in developing sustainable solutions that truly address the issues facing our society. 

Through my interaction with the community leadership, I have so far learnt about your concerns, which include, among others;

  • Access to water at the Royal Palace and households within Nyandeni Municipality
  • Upgrading of the gravel road to the Royal Palace to tarred or paved road
  • Infrastructure maintenance
  • Electricity-related matters
  • The Libode Police Station that requires upgrades and the traditional Police Station at the Royal Palace that is not fully resourced
  • Support of agricultural programs through the provision of targeted interventions
  • High incidents of GBVF, crime rates, and drug abuse.

These are actual issues that our communities are facing, and they require immediate attention. To gain the government’s attention in resolving service delivery issues, our communities should not have to stage protests; instead, we need to take the initiative and solve the problem. Where there are challenges, we should be transparent to our communities and work with them in finding solutions.

For example, we must ensure that the provision and access to high-quality, drinkable water never violates these human rights. In this regard, we want the Provincial Government and the Local Government, to find an amicable solution that will see the taps in our community providing this vital resource.

Another pressing issue is the ongoing Gender-Based Violence and Femicide which persists in our communities. We must find a way to stop this from continuing! We must all work together to prevent every act that perpetuates GBV in our communities. We should not even entertain jokes that demean women and instigate violence against women and children.

As a government, we have made efforts to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide through the establishment of dedicated desks at police stations in hotspot areas, the implementation of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF, and initiatives like the Men’s Parliament aimed at promoting positive masculinity.

We urge you as a community to speak out against GBV to foster a safer environment for all. This includes challenging harmful norms, supporting survivors, and advocating for systemic change. Community involvement is crucial for both preventing GBV and ensuring access to essential support services for survivors.

Kubantu baseNyandeni, we have heard your concerns and frustrations regarding service delivery.

We will collaborate closely with municipal and provincial governments to devise timely solutions to your concerns. 

Our current discussion will not devolve into a mere talk show; we will ensure that those entrusted with responsibilities fulfil their obligations.

As various branches of government, we recognise our shared responsibility to guarantee the provision of high-quality services to the public. However, the local government sphere is at the forefront of service delivery. Their importance is because they are the first point of contact for many residents needing access to services like water, sanitation, electricity, roads, and social amenities.

The local government’s effectiveness directly impacts the quality of life for citizens and their ability to access basic necessities. Therefore, it is important to strengthen intergovernmental relations (IGR) by enhancing our synergies and collaboration to ensure that all levels of government work together to extend services to all communities, including to rural areas.

In the spirit of this collaboration, we urge the Nyandeni Local Municipality to work closely with Traditional Leaders, from the first stage of decision-making to implementation and monitoring to make sure that everyone has access to basic services.

Together, you must take responsibility for providing, regulating, and maintaining the infrastructure needed for these services, such as managing the water supply, supporting agricultural programmes through the provision of tractors and other equipment, upgrading of roads, and other related tasks.

Our work is therefore aligned with the national development goals, which include making sure that everyone has access to basic services, the importance of integrated infrastructure planning, and working together with other levels of government to solve persistent issues with service delivery.

This is in line with the District Development Model, which is a process where planning is done jointly across the local, district, and metropolitan levels. This leads to a single, strategically focused One-Plan for each of the country’s 44 districts and 8 metropolitan areas.

The One-Plan, in collaboration with various government departments, aims to better lives by improving intergovernmental relations and fostering development in communities including Traditional Leadership.

By working together as different spheres of government, traditional leaders, and different sectors in the communities, we will gain a common understanding of service delivery obstacles, growth challenges, and opportunities.

Furthermore, the partnership between our government and traditional leaders allows us to tap into a wealth of resources and expertise. By combining our strengths and insights, we can create a more holistic approach to service delivery that is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and responsive to the diverse needs of our community.

Through this collaborative action, we can bridge the gap between policy-making and grassroots implementation. 

We can ensure that the voices of our community are heard and respected and that decisions are made with the best interests of all in mind.

In conclusion, let me assure this community that we are committed to improving the lives of the people by listening and addressing the service delivery matters of the Kingship and Traditional Communities to promote development and social cohesion for building resilient communities.

As we move forward in our shared commitment to service delivery, we are going to set clear directions and deadlines for the issue you have raised and a clear monitoring process.

The first thing we will do to keep our commitment is to work with departments like Health, Home Affairs, Social Development, and SAPS to ensure that they make it easier for people from the Traditional Community to obtain services through Services on Wheels.

Through these services, we want to increase accessibility, improve efficiency in service provision, and reduce travel costs for the community members.

Furthermore, we want to enhance community engagement and empowerment by bringing services directly to the people, potentially leading to better health outcomes and the overall well-being of our people.

Our goal is that when we meet again, we give you an update of the progress that has been made and where there are challenges, to be frank with you, so that we together move in the same direction with understanding.

We want to build bridges of trust and understanding between our government and traditional leaders, setting an example of effective governance and community empowerment for all to follow.

As the Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Matters of Traditional Leadership, I welcome your ongoing engagement with us as representatives of the community.

Together, we can work towards addressing challenges and fostering a stronger community. 

(Sisonke, singasebenza ekusombululeni imingeni nasekukhuliseni uluntu olomeleleyo)
Ndiyabulela!.

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Low cost-high impact, affordable farming solutions for sustainable food security

Source: APO – Report:

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The rising cost of agricultural inputs especially inorganic fertilizers, is one of the issues impeding production among small holder farmers in Malawi, therefore affecting food security. Due to land degradation, farmers who cannot afford inorganic fertilizer often harvest barely enough food for household consumption.

In response to the problem, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is implementing the Land Use Planning and Sustainable Land and Water Management for Improved Agricultural Productivity project, funded by the Government of Flanders. Under this project, FAO is promoting the use of low-cost sustainable land and water management practices such as production of organo-mineral fertilizers such as Mbeya, which is a homemade organic fertilizer made from locally available raw materials and a small amount of inorganic fertilizer.

Maganizo Lukhere hails from Mzimba district and is one of the farmers who adopted the use of Mbeya fertilizer. He gives a comparison of his family’s livelihood before and after adopting the low-cost agricultural technologies being promoted by FAO.

“Four years ago, we used to harvest 10 to 13 fifty kilograms bags of maize from a one-acre piece of land. The maize was never enough to sustain our family of eight until the next harvest. Since we started making and using Mbeya fertilizer, we harvest about 40 fifty kilograms bags of maize on the same piece of land,” said Maganizo.

He has since obtained another piece of wetland where he grows maize throughout the year under irrigation, using residual moisture, and uses Mbeya fertilizer and other low-cost soil and water management practices. “We are about to harvest this year’s crop, but we still have maize left over from last year’s harvest. In our household, lean months are a thing of the past. We have eliminated hunger,” said Maganizo.

For farmers in the community, Mbeya fertilizer is easy and cheaper to make. The ingredients required to make one 50 kg bag of Mbeya fertilizer are 21 kg of maize bran, 10 kg of pig dung, 10 kg of inorganic fertilizers, 10 kg of ash and 5 litres of water. One 50kg bag of mineral fertilizer produces five 50kg bags of Mbeya fertilizer.

Along with using Mbeya fertilizer, Maganizo has adopted other low-cost techniques that FAO promotes such as mulching, zero tillage, planting vetiver grass around maize fields and constructing swales for water harvesting. These techniques preserve soil moisture, reduce soil erosion and improve soil composition.

“A lot of small holder farmers are resource poor, and the cost of technology is one of the factors they consider before adoption,” said Harvey Nyirongo, Agriculture Extension Officer for Chasato section in Mzimba. He said now that more farmers are making and using Mbeya fertilizer, the community is more food secure.

– on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

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Seminar focusing on cultural heritage and identity

Source: APO – Report:

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The Commission of Culture and Sports organized a seminar on cultural heritage and identity for over 150 members of traditional dance and music groups from the Southern Region on 18 August in Asmara.

At the seminar, Dr. Tsegay Medin, head of Archaeological Heritage Research at the Commission, gave a detailed briefing on the meaning and significance of culture, the tangible and intangible aspects of cultural heritage, and the role of heritage in consolidating national identity.

Highlighting the importance of cultural heritage in preserving identity, understanding the current situation, and envisioning the future, Dr. Tsegay said that archaeological findings from the prehistoric and historic eras, including the period of kingdoms and colonialism, have made a significant contribution to nurturing national identity.

Dr. Tsegay further stated that the Commission of Culture and Sports is making strong efforts in research, conservation, and transmission of cultural heritage. He noted, however, that ongoing damage and destruction of heritage sites remain the main challenges.

The participants held extensive discussions on the issues raised during the seminar and adopted several recommendations. These included intensifying efforts to repatriate heritage items held abroad and addressing the damage caused to ancient buildings under the pretext of renovation.

Lt. Col. Samuel Tsegay, head of Administration and Finance at the Commission of Culture and Sports, and Mr. Abraham Yohannes, Director General of Culture and Sports in the Southern Region, emphasized the significance of the seminar and called for its continuation.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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From genome to action: Building Sierra Leone’s next generation of genomic leaders for public health resilience beyond mpox

Source: APO – Report:

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Sierra Leone has taken an important step in strengthening its public health system by hosting a two-week national workshop on DNA sequencing and bioinformatics from August 4 to August 15, 2025 in Freetown. The training, held under the theme “From Genome to Action: Enhancing Mpox Surveillance through Sequencing and Bioinformatics in Sierra Leone,” was supported by the World Health Organization (WHO). It focused on building the country’s capacity to track and understand diseases through genomic science, with mpox as a key focus, but also extending to other infectious diseases.

The training served as a mentorship program for 16 young scientists, 15 of whom had already received foundational genomics training with WHO support. This advanced phase transitioned them to mid-level genomic experts capable of sophisticated data analysis and interpretation to inform real-time public health interventions. The sessions were practical and hands-on, covering:

  • DNA sequencing: learning how to read and understand genetic material using Illumina platforms.

  • Bioinformatics analysis: interpreting genetic information to see how diseases spread and change.

  • Data stewardship: submitting results to international databases to support global knowledge.

  • Outbreak analytic: turning genetic information into actions that help control outbreaks.

The comprehensive program went beyond mpox, also covering diseases like Ebola, COVID-19, Lassa fever, HIV, and antimicrobial resistance. It also introduced broader tools that allow scientists to study different types of pathogens at once.  Already, the Central Public Health Reference Laboratory (CPHRL) is applying these skills in HIV-2 research. “This is mentorship in motion. We’re growing future genomic leaders from within,” said Doris Harding, Laboratory Lead at the National Public Health Agency (NPHA).

As of August 18, 2025, Sierra Leone had sequenced 10.1% (522 out of 5,154) of its confirmed mpox cases, meeting both national and continental targets of 8–10%. This progress shows how far the country has come, but also highlights the need to maintain momentum. By training participants from start to finish – sample collection to reporting, the workshop not only boosted mpox surveillance but also set the stage for sustainable genomic monitoring systems. “This is sustainability in action – building resilient systems by empowering the laboratory pillar,” emphasized Dr. Ameh George, WHO Representative to Sierra Leone.

Participants shared how the training had impacted them: “We are deeply grateful for this investment in capacity building. The opportunity has not only enriched our professional knowledge but has also given us confidence to contribute meaningfully to research and health systems,” said Abu Bakarr Sawaneh from Connaught lab. Vidalyn Folorunso, a Medical Laboratory Scientific Officer from CPHRL added, “Let us keep practicing, applying the knowledge gained, and making good use of it in our institutions.”

Allan Campbell, CPHRL Lead & DNA Sequencing Training Lead, highlighted the lasting benefits: “This mentorship-driven model not only meets today’s needs but also builds a pipeline of future genomic experts. By empowering local scientists with the ability to lead using data and speed, Sierra Leone is strengthening its role in regional and global health security—whether in Mpox, HIV, cancer, antimicrobial resistance, or Ebola.”

Walter Oguta, WHO AFRO EPI Analytics Specialist & Bioinformatics Training Lead, underscored the bigger picture: “The workshop was a pivotal step in embedding genomic science into Sierra Leone’s health system. By training a new generation of scientists, the country is now better positioned to respond to outbreaks with data-driven precision.”

The August 2025 workshop stands as a milestone in Sierra Leone’s public health journey. By combining mentorship, advanced training, and a focus on sustainability, it has built a new generation of scientists ready to lead the country’s response to present and future health threats. This effort marks the beginning of a stronger, data-driven foundation for health security in Sierra Leone.

– on behalf of World Health Organization – Sierra Leone.

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Côte d’Ivoire – Chaines de valeurs vivrieres : la Banque Mondiale se felicite du developpement des activites des beneficiaires du Projet de Développement des Chaines de Valeur Vivrières (PDC2V)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Au terme d’une visite dans le Sud-Est ivoirien, le mardi 12 août 2025, Tony Verheijen, responsable des opérations pour la Côte d’Ivoire, le Togo et la Guinée de la Banque mondiale, s’est félicité du développement des activités des bénéficiaires du Projet de Développement des Chaînes de Valeurs Vivrières (PDC2V).

Il s’agit en effet pour l’émissaire de l’institution de Bretton woods, principal bailleur du projet, d’apprécier les réalisations financées par le Fonds à Coûts Partagés (FCP). Ainsi, cette visite de terrain l’a successivement conduit à Alépé, Aboisso et Yaou, toutes des localités du Sud-Est de la Côte d’Ivoire.

À Alépé, la délégation a visité Kré Maxime, bénéficiaire du guichet B de la première cohorte du FCP pour le développement de Nourivoire, une unité moderne de production d’attiéké « Attiéké Choco ». Cette unité, ayant acquis des équipements de dernières générations grâce au financement du PDC2V, produit à ce jour, 250 tonnes d’attiéké destinées au marché local et à l’export. 

Le représentant de la Banque mondiale s’est par ailleurs rendu à Aboisso sur le site de Poly Élevage, une entreprise spécialisée dans la production d’alevins et d’aliments pour poissons à base de mouches soldats noires. Augustin Millan, exploitant de cette entreprise, ambitionne de produire 1,5 million d’alevins d’ici à la fin de l’année 2025. Il assure également le grossissement des poissons et des formations spécialisées ,  dispose aujourd’hui de 10 bacs hors sol, de 15 étangs (dont 10 réhabilités et 5 nouvellement construits) ainsi que  d’une retenue d’eau grâce à l’appui du PDC2V.

À la dernière étape de la tournée, à Yaou, la délégation a visité les installations de Group Eroveem-FY, gérée par Ezinlin Epse Yavo Bayo Euphrasie. Cette entreprise, spécialisée dans la transformation du manioc en attiéké et placali, a traité 545,9 tonnes de manioc entre août 2024 et juillet 2025 (396,2 tonnes d’attiéké et 149,6 tonnes de placali) et vend ses produits sur le marché national et à l’international. L’appui financier de la Banque mondiale lui a en outre permis de se moderniser avec l’acquisition d’un groupe électrogène, trois essoreurs, deux broyeurs et un séchoir, ainsi que l’achat de manioc. La délégation a encouragé l’entreprise à viser la certification ISO. 

Tony Verheijen a, au terme de cette visite de terrain, exprimé le satisfécit de la Banque mondiale à Mahamane Ouattara, représentant du coordonnateur du PDC2V, ainsi qu’aux bénéficiaires visités, quant à l’impact concret des investissements. 

La mission se poursuivra à Abengourou avec la visite d’autres bénéficiaires du Fonds à Coûts Partagés et du Centre de Développement du Vivier situé dans l’enceinte de l’école ERA-Est (École Régionale de l’Agriculture de l’Est).

Ce mécanisme de financement, mis en place par le PDC2V, vise à accompagner les acteurs agricoles dans leur professionnalisation.

Distribué par APO Group pour Portail Officiel du Gouvernement de Côte d’Ivoire.

Media files

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Côte d’Ivoire – Prix national d’Excellence 2025 : Le ministre Adama Diawara felicite et encourage les laureats du sous-secteur enseignement superieur et recherche scientifique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Les lauréats de la 12ème édition du Prix national d’Excellence (PNE) du sous-secteur Enseignement supérieur et Recherche scientifique ont été félicités et encouragés, le lundi 18 août 2025, par leur ministre de tutelle, Adama Diawara, à son Cabinet à Abidjan-Plateau.

Ces lauréats sont l’Institut national polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INPHB) de Yamoussoukro (PNE de l’administration publique moderne la plus innovante), le professeur Inza Koné, professeur titulaire de zoologie et biologie animale à l’UFR Biosciences de l’Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny-UFHB- (PNE du meilleur enseignant-chercheur), le professeur Kouamé Jean-Eric Kouassi, enseignant-chercheur en orthopédie-traumatologie à l’UFR Sciences médicales de l’Université Alassane Ouattara de Bouaké (PNE de la meilleure action de valorisation de la recherche et de l’innovation), Rahessou Emmanuel-Marie Joseph Touré, étudiant en classes préparatoires aux grandes écoles (filières Mathématiques, Physiques et Sciences de l’ingénieur) à l’INPHB (PNE du meilleur étudiant).

Enfin, il s’agit du PNE du meilleur talent numérique et technologique attribué à Yacouba Diakité (coach), Othniel Kouamé N’dri (Esatic), Lewis Ba.u (Esatic) et Ismael Aziz Bakayoko (Université Polytechnique de Bingerville), qui ont remporté le premier prix mondial dans la spécialité Cloud à la prestigieuse compétition HUAWEI ICT 2025.

Le ministre Adama Diawara les a encouragés à continuer leurs efforts pour rester au sommet et être des modèles pour les autres: « Arriver au sommet, c’est difficile, certes, mais s’y maintenir est encore plus compliqué. Ce qu’on vous demande, c’est de tout faire pour vous maintenir au sommet. Aujourd’hui, votre mérite a été reconnu par la Nation. Vous êtes des modèles, des références, il faut que vous demeuriez tels ».

Porte-parole des lauréats, le directeur général de l’INPH, Moussa Diaby, a souligné que toutes ces récompenses matérialisent toutes les innovations et réformes entreprises par le ministre Adama Diawara dans son département: « Monsieur le ministre, nous vous présentons tous ces prix parce qu’il s’agit véritablement de prix remportés par des établissements d’enseignement sous votre tutelle et qui sont la matérialisation de toutes les réformes que vous avez entreprises, depuis ces dernières années, dans notre système d’enseignement supérieur et de recherche scientifique ».

Distribué par APO Group pour Portail Officiel du Gouvernement de Côte d’Ivoire.

Media files

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Action humanitaire en République Centrafricaine (RCA) : entre progrès sécuritaires et manque de ressources

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Bangui a abrité, le 19 août 2025, une conférence-débat marquant la Journée mondiale de l’aide humanitaire, sur le thème « Action humanitaire en RCA au défi des ressources ». L’objectif était de sensibiliser l’opinion publique et de mobiliser un soutien accru à l’action humanitaire. L’événement a réuni des médias, des représentants de la société civile, des étudiants, des acteurs humanitaires locaux et internationaux, ainsi que des partenaires, dont la MINUSCA.

La Journée mondiale de l’aide humanitaire vise à dénoncer la banalisation des attaques contre les civils et les humanitaires, et à rappeler l’obligation de protection inscrite dans le droit international. Les participants ont appelé le gouvernement et les parties au conflit à garantir la sécurité des populations, du personnel humanitaire et des infrastructures essentielles.

Une situation en amélioration, mais encore fragile

D’après la Coordination humanitaire en République centrafricaine, 2,4 millions de personnes, soit 37,5 % de la population, demeurent extrêmement vulnérables en 2025. Ce chiffre, en baisse par rapport à 2024, reflète une amélioration progressive de la sécurité dans certaines localités.

« La situation humanitaire s’est améliorée grâce aux efforts conjoints du gouvernement et de ses partenaires, notamment la MINUSCA, qui œuvre à restaurer l’autorité de l’État », a indiqué Georgine Ouaby, chargée de mission au ministère de l’Action humanitaire. Elle a toutefois rappelé que les besoins restent criants dans plusieurs régions, en raison des attaques armées et des chocs climatiques.

Hommage aux humanitaires

Les humanitaires continuent d’opérer dans un contexte difficile marqué par des attaques contre les centres de santé et d’autres infrastructures vitales, limitant l’accès des populations aux services essentiels. Malgré cela, 548 000 personnes vulnérables ont reçu une assistance humanitaire au premier semestre 2025.

« Je tiens à rendre hommage à ces hommes et femmes qui se dévouent pour venir en aide aux plus vulnérables, dans la neutralité et l’impartialité », a déclaré Marie Roseline Bélizaire, coordonnatrice humanitaire par intérim pour la RCA. Elle a salué leur engagement dans un pays où les risques demeurent élevés pour les travailleurs humanitaires.

Le défi des ressources

L’un des sujets majeurs de la conférence a été la réduction des financements humanitaires. Le retrait de l’aide américaine, qui représentait près de 50 % de la réponse en 2024, a fortement impacté les capacités d’intervention.

Pour 2025, la communauté humanitaire estime avoir besoin de 326,1 millions de dollars pour venir en aide à 1,8 million de Centrafricains vulnérables, avec des priorités dans les secteurs de l’eau, de l’hygiène, de l’assainissement, de la sécurité alimentaire et de la santé.

La MINUSCA, conformément à son mandat, apporte un soutien à l’acheminement immédiat, complet, en toute sécurité et sans entrave de l’aide humanitaire.

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

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Angola launches strategic initiative to strengthen public health communication

Source: APO – Report:

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The Ministry of Health (MOH), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with the support of the European Union, will hold a national training session on August 20 at the Journalist Training Center (CEFOJOR) dedicated to the role of the media in managing public health crises. 

The initiative will bring together journalists, institutional communicators, and strategic partners to reflect on the challenges of public health in Angola and reinforce the fundamental role of communication in saving lives, promoting healthy behaviors, and combating misinformation. 

This meeting marks the beginning of a joint effort to create the Health Communication Network in Angola, a collaborative platform that aims to strengthen the link between the media, health authorities, and international partners, promoting a more effective and coordinated response to health emergencies. 

In a context where Angola faces persistent challenges such as maternal and infant mortality, epidemic outbreaks, and the impacts of climate change, clear, accessible, and fact-based communication becomes a fundamental pillar of public health. The right information at the right time can make the difference between risk and protection, between doubt and confidence. 

The training will have around 60 participants, including professionals from public and private organizations, international correspondents, and institutional communicators. The program will include practical sessions, debates, and the sharing of tools to improve the quality and accountability of journalistic coverage of health issues. 

Through this initiative, the partners reaffirm their commitment to a more informed, healthier Angola that is better prepared to face current and future health challenges. 

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

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Once Rescued, Now a Rescuer

Source: APO – Report:

Found as a newborn by a vet in Kenya and adopted by a family from the UK, 31-year-old occupational therapist Becky Chaplin has come full circle. Today, she leads rehabilitation service on board the Global Mercy™, the world’s largest purpose-built civilian hospital ship operated by international charity Mercy Ships (MercyShips.org).

Becky’s story is one of resilience, identity, and service. Found abandoned and still attached to her umbilical cord, she was saved by a passing veterinarian and adopted at 7 weeks old by a British missionary couple.

“Mum said when she picked me up, she felt God was saying ‘this is your daughter,’” Becky said with a proud smile. “I’m Kenyan by birth but British by adoption.”

Raised between Kenya and the UK, she embraces her dual heritage and uses her unique perspective to bridge cultures in her work.

“Living in Kenya, I saw both sides,” she shared. “I was exposed to extreme poverty and the opportunities you can have with education. I was fortunate to be adopted into a family that gave me that opportunity.”

She received her early education in both countries, experiencing two school systems. At 10 years old, her family moved to the UK, where she continued her studies.

“I think I’ve got both cultures in me. I can relate to more than one group of people from different cultures.”

That awareness fueled her decision to become an occupational therapist. After working in UK hospitals, including in burn and hand therapy, Becky felt called to volunteer her skills abroad. In 2023, she joined Mercy Ships for a three-month sabbatical in Senegal.

“I absolutely loved it. I loved being back in an African country with people that look like me,” she said.

Today, as Rehabilitation Team Leader aboard the Global Mercy, Becky is part of a multinational volunteer crew providing free surgeries and medical training to help strengthen local healthcare systems. She leads post-operational rehabilitation for patients recovering from life-changing procedures; many of whom are children with server burns or congenital conditions.

Many patients have left a lasting impression on Becky. One of them is a 10-year-old girl from Senegal who had a contracture. “She made me work hard to disguise all the exercises within games,” said Becky. “So, we painted, drew, and stuck things up on the wall. That was impactful because it wasn’t easy. But there was a joy and satisfaction when we were able to get the movements that we wanted.”

As the Global Mercy embarks on its next chapter in Sierra Leone, Becky’s story embodies the mission of Mercy Ships, to bring hope and healing where it’s needed most.

To anyone contemplating service with Mercy Ships, Becky’s advice is simple: “If you want something that’s enriching, pushes you, and grows you, then it’s for you. You’re not just giving, you also learn a lot and receive a lot. I’d say, just step out in faith and you won’t be disappointed.”

– on behalf of Mercy Ships.

For more information about Mercy Ships, contact:
Email: International.media@mercyships.org   

ABOUT MERCY SHIPS:    

Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with nations in Africa for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact. Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.  
 

Media files

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