Category: MIL-OSI

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The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Officially Partners with African Energy Week 2025 in Historic Alliance Set to Elevate Africa’s Role in Global Energy Dialogue

Source: APO – Report:

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African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies is proud to announce that the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has joined as an Official Partner of the continent’s leading energy event, taking place in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3. This milestone marks a decisive step forward in positioning Africa not only as a supplier but as a strategic partner in global energy decision-making. With OPEC now fully engaged in AEW 2025, Africa’s priorities – from oil and gas to development and energy access – will be shaped on its own terms.

OPEC’s participation comes at a pivotal moment for African energy. Countries such as Nigeria, Algeria, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and Libya – as well as emerging producers like Senegal and Namibia – already play central roles in OPEC’s global agenda. The partnership further extends to African OPEC+ members like South Sudan and observing participants such as Egypt, forming a powerful bloc of African producers with the potential to shape upstream policy, mobilize investment and drive regional integration. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s deepening energy ties with Africa – from infrastructure and renewables investments like Egypt’s Kom Ombo solar plant to South Africa’s Project DAO hybrid facility, alongside strategic partnerships through ACWA Power – underscore a broader, long-term commitment to the continent’s energy future.

A critical dimension of Africa’s energy agenda is clean cooking. Nearly one billion Africans still lack access to clean cooking solutions, posing a major health, environmental and gender equity challenge. For African OPEC and OPEC+ producers, expanding access to cleaner fuels like LPG represents both a development imperative and an untapped market opportunity. As the continent ramps up gas production and infrastructure, prioritizing clean cooking access can create jobs, reduce deforestation, improve public health and drive inclusive growth.

In strategic alignment with AEW 2025, OPEC’s involvement is also set to catalyze critical dialogue on unlocking upstream investment across Africa while bolstering global advocacy against bans on fossil fuel financing – policies that have long stunted the continent’s development. As the African Energy Chamber has emphasized, OPEC members can play a constructive role in pressing institutions like the World Bank to reconsider restrictive financing frameworks and support equity-based development agendas across African producer states.

“Having OPEC officially partner with AEW 2025 is a game-changer – not just for the event, but for the entire continent,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “At a time when global markets are navigating deep uncertainty and rising demand, this partnership sends a clear message: Africa is ready to lead, ready to produce and ready to take its rightful place at the center of global energy discussions. AEW 2025 will be the platform where Africa’s energy priorities are aligned with global dynamics, and where African voices don’t just participate – they lead.”

With OPEC and Saudi Arabia now deeply invested in Africa’s energy trajectory – both through fossil fuel and clean energy channels – AEW 2025 presents a strategic opportunity to convert policy influence into capital, regional development, clean cooking access and energy security. From high-level ministerial participation to deal‑signing and dialogue on the sidelines, this collaboration will elevate AEW into a true continental showcase for African energy ambition.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

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General Maphwanya’s Iran visit "ill-advised"

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, August 15, 2025

Presidential spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, says President Cyril Ramaphosa did not sanction Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) General Rudzani Maphwanya’s visit to Iran.

At a media briefing on Thursday, Magwenya said the SANDF was enabled by bilateral and multilateral frameworks to forge ties with other military forces around the world. 

“The exchange of knowledge and the strengthening of professional military to military cooperation is encouraged within our system of government, this includes joint training drills with other countries, cooperation on peacekeeping and rescue mission during natural disasters.

“However, senior military officers do not engage outside of their military purview and they do not represent the country on foreign policy matters neither are they delegated to perform such functions.”

Magwenya said the President did not sanction the visit, as the General’s travel approval “starts and ends” with the Minister.

“As much as the President is the appointing authority and the Commander-in-Chief, he does not get involved in supervising the General’s travel. That process sits with the Minister. So the President did not know [about it],” said Magwenya.

The spokesperson said the issue was indeed a concern. 

“In the spirit of heightened geopolitical tensions as well as conflict in the Middle East, one can say the visit was ill-advised.”

He said the General should have been a lot more circumspect with the comments that he made which delve in to the area of foreign policy “that only the President as well as the Department in International Relations and Cooperation are responsible for”.

“We are in a process of managing a very delicate exercise of … resetting diplomatic relations with the United States, but more importantly balancing the trade relationship in such a manner that that trade relationship is mutually beneficial and therefore it is indeed not helpful you then have senior government or military officials making statements that will further inflame the situation,” said Magwenya. – SAnews.gov.za

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National Convention kicks off in Pretoria

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, August 15, 2025

The long-awaited National Convention, which paves the way for the National Dialogue, has kicked off this morning at the University of South Africa (Unisa) in Pretoria.

The two-day National Convention, in which stakeholders and representatives from all quarters of society will participate, aims to outline and agree on key themes for the National Dialogue. The National Dialogue has been described by the Presidency as a call to action for citizens to lead an inclusive dialogue on the challenges facing the country.

The Convention is also intended to agree on the approach and modalities for the nationwide public dialogues at sectoral and community level. It will also outline and agree on the key themes for discussion in the National Dialogue and establish a Steering Committee.

The Convention brings together representatives from government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural workers, sports organisations, women, youth and community voices, among others, to chart a way forward for the commencement of the National Dialogue.

In preparation for the first National Convention of the National Dialogue process, President Cyril Ramaphosa met with representatives of the interim Preparatory Task Team (PTT) on 7 August 2025. 

READ | Call to make use of National Dialogue platform 

The task team has been given the responsibility of organising the convention and preparing for the public dialogues that will take place thereafter. 

Since April 2025, a Preparatory Task Team has been responsible for preparing for the first National Convention.

It was established as an interim structure pending the establishment of a broadly inclusive Steering Committee representing all sectors. It has been composed of members of the foundations of struggle stalwarts and representatives of the President. – SAnews.gov.za

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Leaders to attend SADC Summit in Madagascar

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa will attend the Southern African Development Community (SADC) 45th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government this weekend.

The summit is a historic moment for Madagascar, following the country’s membership of SADC in August 2005.

The summit will focus on accelerating regional integration through key pillars: strengthening industrial capacity and regional value chains, modernising agriculture, and promoting an inclusive energy transition, all aimed at building a resilient, sustainable, and cohesive SADC region.

Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson to President Cyril Ramaphosa, said during the summit, Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, will officially assume the SADC Chairpersonship, succeeding Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe.

“The summit will review progress on the implementation of the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030, consider the report from the Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, and review achievements under the 44th Summit theme:  ‘Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustained Economic Growth and Development towards an Industrialised SADC’,” he said.

He was briefing media on Thursday on the President’s upcoming engagements.

This weekend’s summit, taking place at the Ivato Conference Center in Antananarivo, will also see South Africa formally accepting its Chairship of SADC for 2026-2027. 

TICAD9

Meanwhile, the President will lead South Africa’s High Level delegation participation to the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Japan next week.

The 9th TICAD Summit will convene in Yokohama from 20–22 August 2025 under the theme “People, Planet, and Prosperity in a Changing World”.

Launched by Japan in 1993, the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD is co-hosted with the UN, UNDP, World Bank, and African Union Commission and has become a premier forum for African development.

“Grounded in African ownership and international partnership, TICAD has steadily evolved from conflict prevention and human security (TICAD I–III) to economic transformation, innovation, and universal health coverage (UHC) (TICAD VI–VIII),” said Magwenya.

The President will address a South Africa-Japan Business Engagement in Yokohama. 

“Bilateral trade between Japan and South Africa had been expanding since the establishment of full diplomatic relations in 1992. Japan is one of the major investors in the South African economy and has a presence in South Africa of 273 companies, sustaining over 200 000 local jobs,” said the spokesperson.

TICAD 9 will gather over 20 African Heads of State and Government, senior AU, UN, World Bank, and AfDB leadership, philanthropic actors, and bilateral partners including the G7, G20, and BRICS. – SAnews.gov.za

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High hopes from investors at AU-AIP water summit

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, August 14, 2025

African Heads of State have expressed strong confidence in investors following positive responses to commitments made on the opening day of the African Union–Africa Water Investment Programme (AU-AIP) Water Summit 2025.

Speaking on the sidelines of the summit on Thursday, Executive Secretary and CEO of the Global Water Partnership (GWP), Alex Sialabwi, said investors and partners were “excited” after a high-level matchmaking session and the launch of the Global Outlook Council on Water Investments.

Unveiled on Wednesday by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the council aims to scale up the Africa Water Investment Programme into a Global Water Investment Platform.

Sialabwi said the signal received on Wednesday was very encouraging, with the investors expressing enthusiasm.

“The leadership already demonstrated gives enough confidence to the private sector and partners. This is exactly what they are looking for: commitment and leadership.”

Sialabwi also highlighted President Ramaphosa’s reference to a landmark project by Rand Water, which was launched last week ahead of the summit, as an example of leadership in action.

The summit has drawn nearly 200 investors from across Africa and beyond.

According to Sialabwi, several countries have already initiated deals during private meetings following the matchmaking sessions.

He said momentum remains high after the Heads of State’s declaration on Wednesday, which will be presented at the G20 meeting in November.

Sialabwi said the leaders on the continent hope that the issues identified will lead to the further prioritisation of water.

“You cannot achieve solidarity and equality, [which are] the key objectives of the… summit, without making sure that everyone has access to water.” 

Opening the summit on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa underscored the urgent need to ensure that every African has access to clean and reliable water. – SAnews.gov.za

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Le Programme Alimentaire Mondial des Nations Unies (PAM) et la Fondation Internationale Choithram renforcent leur partenariat pour l’alimentation scolaire au Bénin

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Programme Alimentaire Mondial des Nations Unies (PAM) et la Fondation Internationale Choithram (CIF) (www.Choithrams.com) réaffirment leur engagement à lutter contre la faim et à améliorer l’éducation au Bénin. La CIF contribuera à hauteur de 975 000 dollars au cours des trois prochaines années pour soutenir et étendre les initiatives d’alimentation scolaire dans le cadre du Projet  intégré d’Alimentation Scolaire et de Nutrition (PiASN).

Depuis 2015, CIF collabore avec le PAM au Bénin pour permettre à des milliers d’écoliers de bénéficier de repas nutritifs. Le programme soutient aujourd’hui 30 écoles à travers le pays afin d’augmenter les taux d’inscription et de rétention scolaire, de réduire les abandons et d’améliorer l’état nutritionnel des enfants tout en favorisant l’autonomisation économique et la résilience communautaire.

Entre 2025 et 2027, le programme visera à améliorer la nutrition, l’éducation et la résilience dans les communes de Tanguiéta, Matéri, Malanville, Ségbana et Banikoara, situées au nord du Bénin. Il investira également dans des pratiques agricoles durables, en mettant l’accent sur la formation des groupements féminins de transformation alimentaire, le renforcement de la résilience communautaire via des groupes de soutien aux agriculteurs locaux, et l’introduction de cantines « vertes » dotées de technologies de cuisson économes en énergie.

« Ce financement de la Fondation Internationale Choithram marque une étape importante dans nos efforts pour soutenir les communautés les plus vulnérables du Bénin – en particulier dans les régions du nord, où l’insécurité alimentaire et l’instabilité se sont aggravées. Il nous permettra non seulement d’assurer le fonctionnement continu des cantines scolaires, mais aussi d’améliorer les résultats nutritionnels, de renforcer la résilience communautaire face aux multiples crises et de promouvoir l’autonomisation économique des femmes au niveau local », a déclaré Ali Ouattara, Directeur pays et Représentant résident du PAM au Bénin.

L’investissement de CIF a transformé les écoles et les communautés, en garantissant non seulement que les enfants restent à l’école grâce à des repas sains et réguliers, mais aussi en améliorant les moyens de subsistance. Grâce aux fonds investis dans la construction d’infrastructures essentielles – cuisines, réfectoires, points d’eau et jardins – le partenariat aide les écoles bénéficiaires à devenir des pôles de durabilité.

« Le programme d’alimentation scolaire mené par le PAM en coopération avec les gouvernements locaux à travers le monde est une campagne de référence visant à résoudre les défis liés à la sécurité alimentaire et au changement climatique. Choithrams cherche constamment à améliorer la qualité des aliments consommés, à réduire le gaspillage alimentaire et à optimiser la manière dont les aliments sont cultivés, distribués et vendus. Notre engagement envers le PAM est une synergie d’objectifs. Il nous permet de soutenir les enfants confrontés au risque de faim et de malnutrition », a déclaré Lekhu T. Pagarani, Président de CIF.

Le programme a été lancé initialement comme un plan triennal ciblant 10 écoles dans le départementde l’Atacora, notamment à Boukoumbé et à Toucountouna. Lors de sa deuxième phase, de 2019 à 2021, l’initiative s’est étendue aux régions du sud, Mono et Ouémé, bénéficiant à 3 698 écoliers dans 10 autres écoles. En 2022, elle a été élargie pour soutenir 20 écoles supplémentaires, dans les départements  r du Couffo, de l’Atlantique et de l’Alibori

Au-delà de la construction d’infrastructures de cantine scolaire,, le soutien de la fondation renforce les économies locales en établissant un moulin à maïs et en équipant les coopératives féminines d’outils de transformation du manioc et de noix de palme. Le résultat est une communauté renforcée  dans laquelle éducation et emploi vont de pair, créant ainsi une résilience durable pour les familles dans le besoin.

Pour ces écoliers, la contribution de Choithrams a permis  de fournir des denrées alimentaires essentielles – notamment des céréales, des haricots, de l’huile et du sel iodé – tandis que les produits frais issus des jardins communautaires viendront compléter les repas. Le programme a soutenu 750 femmes grâce à des formations et un accès au marché.

Grâce à des partenariats innovants et des investissements stratégiques, le PAM et la CIF génèrent un impact durable, en dotant les communautés de solutions de sécurité alimentaire favorisant l’autosuffisance et la résilience économique. La mise en œuvre de ces programmes répond non seulement aux défis immédiats de la faim, mais jette également les bases d’un avenir plus sain et plus durable pour les générations à venir.

Distribué par APO Group pour Choithram International Foundation.

Contacts :
Fondation Internationale Choithram
kmalhotra@choithrams.com

Programme Alimentaire Mondial
lorenzo.tacchella@wfp.org

T +39 06 65131

Réseaux sociaux :
Choithrams
Twitter : @ choithramsuae

Programme Alimentaire Mondial
X : @ wfp_gcc, @ wfp_media
Instagram : @ GccWfp

À propos du Programme Alimentaire Mondial des Nations Unies :
Le PAM est la plus grande organisation humanitaire au monde, sauvant des vies en situation d’urgence et utilisant l’aide alimentaire pour construire un chemin vers la paix, la stabilité et la prospérité pour les populations touchées par les conflits, les catastrophes et le changement climatique.

Le PAM ne soutient aucun produit ou service.

À propos du partenariat PAM – Choithrams :
Établi en 2015, le partenariat stratégique entre le PAM et Choithrams, via la Fondation Internationale Choithram, a produit des résultats concrets et transformateurs pour de nombreuses communautés vulnérables au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique. Ensemble, ils ont mené des campagnes « Faim Zéro » dans les supermarchés des Émirats arabes unis. Plus de 6,5 millions de repas ont été donnés depuis le début du partenariat. Le bureau pays du PAM au Bénin, avec le soutien financier de la CIF, continue de soutenir la mise en œuvre des programmes d’alimentation scolaire.

À propos de Choithrams :
Depuis des générations, Choithrams séduit les résidents des Émirats arabes unis avec sa devise « Plein de Bonté », en ravissant clients, partenaires et parties prenantes. La marque propose une expérience d’achat hybride avec plus de 50 points de vente aux EAU, une forte présence en ligne sur www.Choithrams.com et un réseau de livraison mobile optimisé via Instashop, Talabat, Deliveroo, El Grocer, Noon, WhatsApp ou téléphone.

Aujourd’hui, Choithrams est un groupe prospère présent dans divers secteurs : fabrication, distribution, commerce de détail, etc., apportant une richesse d’expérience et de ressources.

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The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and Choithram International Foundation Expand School Feeding Partnership in Benin

Source: APO

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and Choithram International Foundation (CIF) (www.Choithrams.com) are renewing their commitment to fight hunger and improve education in Benin. CIF will contribute $975,000 in the next three years to sustain and expand school feeding initiatives under the Benin Government’s Integrated National School Feeding Programme (PNASI).

CIF has partnered with WFP in Benin since 2015 to help thousands of schoolchildren receive nutritious meals. The programme now supports 30 schools across the country to increase school enrolment and retention rates, reduce dropout rates, and improve the nutritional status of schoolchildren while fostering economic empowerment and community resilience.

Between 2025 and 2027, the programme will aim to improve nutrition, education, and resilience in Tanguiéta, Matéri, Malanville, Ségbana, and Banikoara in the north of Benin. It will also invest in sustainable agricultural practices, with a focus on training women’s food processing groups, improving community resilience through local farmers’ support groups, and introducing “green” canteens equipped with energy-efficient cooking technologies.

“This funding from the Choithram International Foundation marks a significant milestone in our efforts to support the most vulnerable communities in Benin—particularly in the northern regions, where food insecurity and instability have deepened. It will enable us not only to ensure the continued operation of school canteens, but also to strengthen nutrition outcomes, enhance community resilience to overlapping crises, and promote the economic empowerment of women at the grassroots level,” said Ali Ouattara, WFP Country Director and Resident Representative in Benin.

CIF’s investment has transformed schools and communities, not just ensuring children stay in classrooms thanks to dependable, healthy school meals, but also reshaping livelihoods. With funds channeled into building essential infrastructure—including kitchens, refectories, water points, and gardens— the partnership is helping beneficiary schools on their journey towards becoming sustainability hubs.

“The school feeding programme run by WFP in cooperation with local governments around the world is a benchmark global campaign that aims to solve challenges of food security and climate change. Choithrams is continuously looking to improve the quality of food consumed, reduce the quantum of food wasted, and efficiently upgrade how food is grown, distributed and retailed. Our commitment to WFP is a synergy of purposes. It gives us an opportunity to rally behind children facing the risk of hunger and malnutrition,” said Lekhu T. Pagarani, Chairman of CIF.

The programme originally launched as a three-year plan targeting 10 schools in the Atacora department, specifically in Boukoumbé and Toucountouna. In its second phase, from 2019 to 2021, the initiative expanded to the southern regions of Mono and Ouémé, benefiting 3,698 schoolchildren in 10 other schools. In 2022, it was extended to support 20 more schools, including those in the Couffo, Atlantique and Alibori departments.

Beyond the classroom, the foundation’s support is empowering local economies by establishing a maize mill and equipping women’s cooperatives with cassava and palm nut processing tools. The result has been a strengthened community where education and employment go hand in hand, creating long-term resilience for families in need.

For the people of Benin, Choithrams’ contribution will supply essential food items—including cereals, beans, oil, and iodized salt—while fresh produce from community gardens will complement the meals. The programme will support 750 women with training and market access.

Through innovative partnerships and strategic investments, WFP and CIF are driving long-term impact, empowering communities with food security solutions that promote self-sufficiency and economic resilience. The delivery of these programmes not only addresses immediate hunger challenges but also lays the foundation for a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Choithram International Foundation.

For more info please contact:
Choithram International Foundation
kmalhotra@choithrams.com

World Food Programme
lorenzo.tacchella@wfp.org

T +39 06 65131

Social Media:
Choithrams
Twitter: @ choithramsuae

World Food Programme
X: @ wfp_gcc, @ wfp_media
Instagram: @ GccWfp

About The UN World Food Programme:
The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

WFP does not endorse any product or service.

About the WFP – Choithrams Partnership:
Established in 2015, the strategic partnership between WFP and Choithrams, through Choithram International Foundation, has delivered tangible, life-changing results for many in vulnerable communities in the Middle East and Africa. Choithrams and WFP have collaborated as partners on a variety of Zero Hunger campaigns in supermarket locations across the United Arab Emirates. Over 6.5 million meals have been donated since the start of the partnership in 2015. The WFP Benin Country Office, with financial support from CIF, continues to deliver school feeding programmes under the framework of the Integrated National School Feeding Programme (PNASI) in the West African country.

About Choithrams:
For generations, Choithrams has captured the imagination of UAE residents by following its Full of Goodness mantra, delighting customers, partners, and stakeholders at every touchpoint. The brand offers a truly hybrid shopping experience to customers with more than 50 outlets at strategic locations in the UAE, a robust online presence at www.Choithrams.com, and an optimised mobile-first delivery network to reach customers through Instashop, Talabat, Deliveroo, El Grocer, Noon, WhatsApp or by phone.

Today, Choithrams is a successful group with associates in diverse fields including manufacturing, distribution, commodities, retailing This rich combination brings to the group a huge fund of experience and resources. Choithrams came to UAE in 1974 and its chain of over 50 supermarkets have made it a household name in the Emirates.

Check our website: www.Choithrams.com

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Ministers showcase Africa’s multibillion water sector projects for global investors

Source: Government of South Africa

African Ministers of Water have used the AU–Africa Water Investment Programme (AU-AIP) Water Summit 2025 to highlight the multibillion dollar opportunities in the water sector.

The Ministers presented bulk water projects currently underway in their countries during a ministerial roundtable on how they are de-risking the water sector.

Among the large water projects presented included the construction of dams, climate-resilient financing, and nationwide water supply programmes.

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Jongwe Masuka, told delegates that the country presents abundant opportunities for discerning investors, as it has “the highest density of dams in Africa”, with 10 600 dams built to date, creating vast investment potential.

“The new paradigm is that ‘a dam is an economy’,” Masuka said when outlining government’s ‘Infrastructure 6.0’ model, which integrates hydroelectricity generation, irrigation, potable water, fisheries, tourism and wastewater management.

To attract private investors, Masuka said Zimbabwe has developed Special Economic Zones, which are spearheaded by a one-stop investment centre — the Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (ZIDA), working alongside the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) to fast track government’s water projects.

“The two institutions, ZIDA and ZINWA, would be able to handle world investors in the water sector to ensure the acceleration of the last mile development of the 10 600 dams. If you are looking for investment, start in Zimbabwe,” the Minister said.

Climate resilient financing strategy

Malawi Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Sidik Mia, said while water is not only a basic human right, but also a strategic asset for resilience, economic growth, and sustainable development, access to water remains a privilege for the “lucky few” across the African continent.

She said Malawi’s Climate Resilient WASH [Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene] Financing Strategy, has assisted the country to shift from “reactive funding to proactive planning”, boosting investor confidence and unlocking new financing.

“The financing strategy is not just a technical document – it is a strategic planning instrument that brings clarity on the financing needs, identifies sources of financing, and aligns investment areas with national priorities, filling the gaps where we need.

“Financing strategies effectively signal government seriousness, readiness, and strategic intent,” Mia said.

Water for all 

In Côte d’Ivoire, Water and Forests Minister Laurent Chagba highlighted the country’s biggest project in the water sector, the ‘Water for All’ programme, valued at 1 320 billion CFA francs (US$2.3 billion).

He said the initiative aims to guarantee fair and sustainable access to drinking water for all populations, both in rural and urban areas. It also integrates water resources management in the context of climate change.

The major achievements of the first phase of the project include strengthening the storage capacity of the country’s economic capital, which is the Autonomous District of Abidjan; the increase in the production of drinking water in 27 regions and departments, as well as the equipment of 200 chiefs from sub-prefectures to people deprived of water supply systems.

The initiative also aims to implement 450 000 social water connections over three years.

“It also [facilitated] the rehabilitation and maintenance of human-powered pumps between 2017 and 2020,” Chagba said.

In the area of water resources, Chagba highlighted the implementation of the Integrated Development and Adaptation Programme for Climate Change in the Niger River Basin, financed by a consortium of donors and led by the African Development Bank.

The programme covers eight regions and an autonomous district, mainly in the northern and central regions of the country.

“This programme illustrates the commitment of the Ivory Coast to making water a lever for sustainable development, social inclusion and climate resilience,” he said.

Ministers including the Senegal Minister of Water and Sanitation, Dr Sheikha Atidi-Anediye; Abdallah Ahmed Balala, Assistant Minister Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability in the UAE, and Dr Engineer Abtamu Ittefa, the Minister of Water and Energy of the Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, also took part in the plenary.

The Ministers commended South Africa and the African Union for hosting a successful summit, held in the lead-up to South Africa hosting the G20 Summit in November. – SAnews.gov.za

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Call to make use of National Dialogue platform 

Source: Government of South Africa

With the country today hosting the first National Convention that will lay the groundwork and set the agenda for the National Dialogue, South Africans are being urged to make use of the “historic” opportunity it provides.

“It is my hope that South Africans will grab the opportunity to make the National Dialogue as inclusive, as radical, as thoroughgoing as possible so that we do not miss this historic opportunity,” Deputy Chairperson of the National Planning Commission (NPC), Professor Tinyiko Maluleke told SAnews ahead of the first day of the convention taking place at the University of South Africa (UNISA) Main Campus in Pretoria.

The NPC is an independent advisory body and think tank appointed by the President.  The Commission is the custodian of South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP): Vision 2030. 

The two-day convention, which will conclude on Saturday, 16 August, is being held under the theme: “Uniting Voices, Shaping the Nation.”

The views, concerns and proposals that will emerge from the conversation will be brought together at a second National Convention that will be held at a later stage with the expectation being that the second convention will finalise a compact that outlines a new social compact for the development of our country.

In June, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the appointment of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) to guide and “champion” the dialogue with Professor Maluleke being one of two co-chairs of the group of 31 which President Ramaphosa described as “leading figures in our society, reflecting the great diversity of our nation, with a proven commitment to the advancement of social cohesion and nation-building.”

In an interview with SAnews, Professor Maluleke said the country is at a crossroad with challenges such as unemployment and gender-based violence.

“We have had an elections process last year that has sent back the political parties ruling or non-ruling back to the drawing board. We have [a] high unemployment rate; we have problems of gender-based violence. [The] levels of trust in government and in formal structures have gone very low and people are cynical about everything. 

“We have reached a point where we doubt whether the democratic instruments we have are still fit for purpose to carry us forward as a country and that’s why we need a National Dialogue,” said Maluleke.

Speaking ahead of the group’s inaugural meeting last month, the President said the convention would be a representative gathering bringing together government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural workers, sports organisations, women, youth and community voices, among others.

Why talk?

Maluleke said he was cognisant that some South Africans are of the view that dialogue is not a necessity.

“I’ve heard people who say why talk because we know what the problems are. I think that is very presumptuous half the time, because this idea that we know the problems of our people is the idea that has brought us to this moment of a conundrum where a select elite group of people – whether politicians, leaders of different types of organisations presume that they know that they alone can speak on behalf of people,” he explained.

He further explained that this is a form of disdain.

“It is a kind of disdain for people; [it says] don’t talk to the people, talk to us. But how can you know what it feels like to live in a house where sewage is running inside your living room?” he remarked.

“This presumption that we know and therefore we should just move on is actually dangerous and in some ways disdainful of the people of South Africa. I think that the people of South Africa want to dialogue because they want to be heard and they want to be part of the solutions to the problems that we face,” he explained.

Serving South Africa 

He further added that the EPG is made up of individuals dedicated to serving South Africa inc.
“The group is of course a group of volunteers. None of whom and all of whom are not on the payroll of government or anyone. We all have our jobs; we simply are volunteering to serve our country,” he said.

Asked about what it is like to be a part of the EPG, Maluleke said it was an honour and privilege. This as the inaugural meeting between President Ramaphosa and members of the EPG was held on 11 July 2025.

Maluleke co-chairs the group alongside former Minister and constitutional negotiator, Roelf Meyer, with the two deputy-chairs being former Member of Parliament (MP) Lindiwe Mazibuko and award-winning rocket scientist, Siyabulela Xuza.

“I am hugely surprised and honoured to be standing next to your Brigalia Bam’ s [former Electoral Commission Chairperson]; your John Kani’s [award-winning actor]; your Barbara Masekela [poet, educator and stalwart] and dynamic younger South Africans like Lindiwe Mazibuko and Nompendulo Mkhatshwa [student activist and former MP].

Readiness 

Meanwhile, Deputy President Paul Mashatile this week convened the National Dialogue Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to receive a report on the state of readiness ahead of the first convention.
The Deputy President chairs the IMC, which comprises government departments to coordinate the government’s contribution towards the National Convention and the National Dialogue. 

The report, which was presented by the Chairperson of the Convention Organising Committee, Boichoko Ditlhake, and National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) Executive Director, Makhukhu Mampuru, provided a comprehensive update on the work done and assured the Deputy President that all is on track for the convention.

“The IMC noted the decision by some Foundations to pull out of the preparations for the National Convention and requested that the Deputy President engage these Foundations in the process towards this inclusive dialogue,” said the Presidency in a statement on Thursday.

Earlier this week, Ditlhake said the convention would be a citizen-led process while adding that provision has been made for 1000 delegates at the sessions.

This first National Convention is the kick-off of the process and spirit of the 12-month National Dialogue. 

President Ramaphosa is set to deliver the keynote address today and a session on the setting of expectations and a plenary panel is expected to be held.

According to a draft programme, the second day of the convention is expected to include a plenary involving the consolidation of a report from dialogue labs. –SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Presidency media briefing by the Presidential Spokesperson

Source: President of South Africa –

PUBLIC PROGRAMME OF THE PRESIDENT 

FIRST NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE NATIONAL DIALOGUE

As South Africa begins the process of a National Dialogue – a long term process to rebuild trust, address deepest challenges, and shape a shared future, President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 15 August 2025 lead the government delegation and officially open the First National Convention, an agenda-setting and a road map process to chart a way-forward for an all inclusive and citizens-led dialogue.

The First National Convention will be held from 15-16 August 2025 at the University of South Africa, ZK Matthews Great Hall, in Pretoria.

The convention will bring together about 1 000 delegates representing the diversity of the South African nation from government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural workers, sports organisations, women, youth, community voices, among others.

The National Dialogue will kick-off with the 1st National Convention and end with a 2nd National Convention to consolidate the outcomes through a Peoples Compact with commitments for citizens, sectors, government, business, labour, civil society, families to heal and rebuild our nation. 

The National Dialogue is aimed at re-energising community and citizen agency. The ward-based and citizen-initiated dialogues will develop Community Action Plans and Sectoral Compacts for sustained people-led development, mutual accountability, strengthening of civil society and deepening democracy. 

The National Dialogue Roadmap envisages an inclusive, intergenerational, citizen-led process of dialogue, that reaches every corner of our land, and all sectors. The National Dialogue is a process of learning by doing, sharing, problem-solving and listening to each other as we co-create the Peoples Compact.

The President appointed the Eminent Persons Group drawn from across all sectors of society to develop a concrete plan to ensure the dialogue is inclusive, transparent and truly reflective of the voices of all South Africans.

He also appointed an Inter-Ministerial Committee under the Chairship of the Deputy President Paul Mashatile to coordinate government’s contribution to the National Dialogue.

Following the Convention, the dialogue process will unfold in phases through extensive sectoral engagements and community dialogues across rural and urban areas, to ensure participatory process and contribution by all citizens to directly shape the agenda and outcomes of the National Dialogue. 

The National Dialogue will address critical challenges on:

•⁠  ⁠Poverty, Inequality and hunger
•⁠  ⁠Economic transformation and job creation
•⁠  ⁠Social cohesion and nation building
•⁠  ⁠Gender-based violence and safety
•⁠  ⁠Governance, accountability, and particularly democracy
•⁠  ⁠Land reform and food security.

The National Dialogue also presents an opportunity to forge a National Compact that outlines clear commitments and responsibilities for various stakeholders.

17 AUGUST 2025 45TH ORDINARY SADC SUMMIT OF HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT

President Cyril Ramaphosa will attend the Southern African Development Community (SADC) 45th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government on 17 August 2025 at the Ivato Conference Center in Antananarivo, Republic of Madagascar. 

The summit is a historic moment for Madagascar, following the country’s membership of SADC in August 2005.

Hosted under the theme, “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC,” the Summit will focus on accelerating regional integration through key pillars: strengthening industrial capacity and regional value chains, modernising agriculture, and promoting an inclusive energy transition, all aimed at building a resilient, sustainable, and cohesive SADC region.

During the Summit, His Excellency Mr. Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, will officially assume the SADC Chairpersonship, succeeding His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe.

The Summit will review progress on the implementation of the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030, consider the report from the Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, and review achievements under the 44th Summit theme: “Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustained Economic Growth and Development towards an Industrialised SADC.”

South Africa will also formally accept it’s Chairship of SADC for 2026-2027.

20 AUGUST 2025 TOKYO INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT

President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead South Africa’s High Level delegation participation to the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Japan. 

The 9th TICAD Summit will convene in Yokohama from 20–22 August 2025 under the theme “People, Planet, and Prosperity in a Changing World.”

Launched by Japan in 1993, the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD is co-hosted with the UN, UNDP, World Bank, and African Union Commission and has become a premier forum for African development.

Grounded in African ownership and international partnership, TICAD has steadily evolved from conflict prevention and human security (TICAD I–III) to economic transformation, innovation, and universal health coverage (UHC) (TICAD VI–VIII).

The President will address a South Africa- Japan Business Engagement in Yokohama. Bilateral trade between Japan and South Africa had been expanding since the establishment of full diplomatic relations in 1992. Japan is one of the major investors in the South African economy and has a presence in South Africa of 273 companies, sustaining over 200 000 local jobs. TICAD 9 will gather over 20 African heads of state and government, senior AU, UN, World Bank, and AfDB leadership, philanthropic actors, and bilateral partners including the G7, G20, and BRICS.

GENERAL RUDZANI MAPHANYWA VISIT TO IRAN

The South African Defence Force (SANDF) is enabled by bilateral and multilateral frameworks to forge ties with other military forces around the world. 

The exchange of knowledge and the strengthening of professional military to military cooperation is encouraged within our system of government, this includes joint training drills with other countries, cooperation on peacekeeping and rescue mission during natural disasters.

However, senior military officers do not engage outside of their military purview and they do not represent the country on foreign policy matters neither are they delegated to perform such functions.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria