Category: MIL-OSI

Source: APO – Report:

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President John Dramani Mahama on Friday concluded his national ‘Thank You’ Tour triumphantly in Dambai, Oti Region. The tour, a journey of appreciation and dialogue, saw the President reaffirm his commitment to governing Ghana with sincerity, dedication, vision, and integrity.

Throughout his engagements across the 16 regions, President Mahama emphasised the crucial role of traditional leaders. He reiterated his dedication to strengthening traditional governance frameworks and improving the capacity of Chiefs to actively and meaningfully participate in national decision-making processes.

Addressing a lively and colourful durbar in Dambai, President Mahama gave an encouraging update on his administration’s flagship economic plan.

“I am pleased to report that our Reset Agenda is firmly on track,” he declared. “We have begun a bold and necessary journey—to reset our economy, rebuild national institutions, and restore hope. This is the Reset Agenda, grounded in fairness, discipline, inclusion, and accountability.”

He encouraged Ghanaians to embrace a new mindset and actively engage in the transformative national journey.

President Mahama called for collective action to unlock the potential of the country:
“The time to act is now. I urge you to embrace the opportunities presented by our flagship initiatives—from the 24-Hour Economy to the National Apprenticeship Programme, Free Primary Healthcare, Digital Governance, and Export-Led Industrialisation.”

A significant portion of the President’s address was dedicated to the indispensable role of peace in fostering national development. He expressed deep concern over the recent insecurity in Nkwanta, condemning the “unfortunate killing, maiming of innocent people and destruction to property over disagreements” as utterly unacceptable.

Mr Mahama said, “All these things I’ve talked about, all this infrastructure development I’ve talked about, cannot take place if we do not have peace. And that’s why the development in Nkwanta is troubling.”

He made a fervent appeal to all parties involved, “I wish to appeal to all those in Nkwanta who are involved in the conflict to please lay down your arms.”

Responding to an appeal by Nana Soglo Alloh IV, Paramount Chief of the Likpe Traditional Area and President of the Oti Regional House of Chiefs, for a military barracks in Nkwanta, President Mahama stated that there is a need for local, sustainable solutions over military intervention.

He argued that resources dedicated to a military camp could be better invested in life-changing development projects.

“It’s completely unacceptable,” he stated firmly. “Let’s use our traditional mechanisms to establish peace. We should be fighting poverty, not fighting each other. We should be asking for hospitals and schools and jobs and things, not military camps.”

The President shared positive feedback from the 2025 Mid-year Budget Review, indicating Ghanaians are satisfied with the government’s economic management so far.

He defined the “Reset Agenda” as a bold journey to reset our economy, rebuild national institutions, and restore hope, all grounded in fairness, discipline, inclusion, and accountability.

President Mahama urged everyone to seize opportunities from flagship initiatives like the 24-Hour Economy, National Apprenticeship Programme, Free Primary Healthcare, Digital Governance and Export-Led Industrialisation

The President expressed deep concern about the insecurity in Nkwanta, appealing for an end to the conflict.

“All this development cannot take place if we do not have peace,” he stressed. “We should be fighting poverty, not fighting each other. We should be asking for hospitals and schools and jobs and things, not military camps.”

– on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

Source: APO – Report:

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H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, held a discussion session with Baroness Jenny Chapman, UK Minister of State for International Development, during the G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting in South Africa. The meetings witnessed extensive discussions on the future of economic, trade, and investment relations between the two countries in light of their close partnership, as well as joint coordination in international forums to advance efforts to restructure the global financial system and review proposed efforts to restructure the working mechanisms of the United Nations, as well as discussing the outcomes of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville.

During the meeting, both sides expressed their anticipation of the upcoming visit to Cairo announced by the UK Prime Minister’s Office, which will represent a qualitative shift in bilateral Egyptian-British relations, elevating them to a strategic partnership level, in addition to its role in opening up avenues for cooperation across various levels between the two sides. It is also an extension of the strategic partnership between Egypt and the European Union, which was announced in 2024. 

During the meeting, the two ministers agreed on the need to activate the recommendations issued by various international forums to restructure the global financial system, ensuring a more efficient and fair financial architecture, especially for developing countries, achieving greater transparency in financing mechanisms, and expanding concessional financing. They also discussed proposals for restructuring the working mechanisms of the United Nations system to make it more influential in the global economy, emphasizing the need to adopt comprehensive coordination and follow-up mechanisms to ensure sustainability and enhance national participation in UN efforts.

The meeting witnessed extensive discussions on various aspects of the partnership between the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United Kingdom, particularly in terms of trade exchange, British investments in Egypt, economic relations, and development cooperation. H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat reaffirmed Egypt’s keenness to develop these relations and build on the pioneering results achieved over the past years, particularly in food security, support for start-ups, and small and medium enterprises.

The two sides reviewed frameworks for bilateral cooperation in the field of development finance, the UK’s contribution to financing development policies through the World Bank, as well as the role of UK Export Finance (UKEF) which supports project financing in Egypt, and the financing mechanisms provided by British International Investment (BII), which considers Egypt one of its priority markets. 

In this context, the Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation reviewed preparations for launching the “National Narrative for Economic Development,” which is an executive program to promote structural transformation in the Egyptian economy toward tradable sectors, encourage foreign direct investment, industrial development, and support labor market and employment. H.E. noted that since March 2024, the government has implemented economic and structural reforms that have contributed to macroeconomic stability and created a favorable investment climate and business environment.

The two sides also discussed close cooperation within the framework of the Egyptian National Platform for Green Projects, the “NWFE” program, which focuses on linking water, food, and energy nexus, particularly through BII and its financing to support energy and green hydrogen projects. In addition to the UK’s role in providing support and assistance to global climate funds, represented by the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). Additionally, the meeting highlighted the launch of the “Green Growth: Egypt–UK” campaign in June 2025, which will continue until COP30 Climate Conference to accelerate green economy partnerships.

Given that the UK is one of the largest investors in Egypt in sectors in the energy, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods, and in light of the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024 between the Egyptian General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) and UKEF to strengthen investment relations, the two ministers explored the significant role of the Egyptian-British Business Association (BEBA) and the Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce (EBCC) in connecting companies, facilitating investment, and enhancing trade exchange between the two countries.

For her part, the British Minister emphasized the diverse historical relations between the two countries, which share close ties and cooperation across various fields. H.E. also praised Egypt’s significant efforts in addressing the humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians in Gaza and the role of the Egyptian leadership in delivering humanitarian aid to the Strip, affirming her country’s full support for these efforts. She expressed her hope for reaching an immediate and sustainable ceasefire that would allow safe and regular delivery of aid.

– on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

Source: APO – Report:

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President John Dramani Mahama, on Saturday, joined President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and the people of Liberia to celebrate their 178th Independence Day celebration in Monrovia.

The event held at the Centennial Memorial Pavilion in Monrovia, Montserrado County, was attended by heads of states from the subregion including the Presidents of Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Guinea Bissau. There were also representatives of the governments of Cote D’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Gambia.

Liberia used the occasion to recognise ECOWAS member states that contributed troops to the multinational peacekeeping force, ECOMOG, which played a key role in ending the civil war as well as securing humanitarian corridors during the Liberian war.

President Mahama received Ghana’s honour from the Liberian President on behalf of the Ghana Armed Forces and the people of Ghana for the contribution of its gallant soldiers.

President Boakai in a spirit of national reconciliation said Liberia must heal itself, unite for a common purpose and inspire all for a faster development of the country.

He called on all his citizens to leverage on technology to transform Liberia.

The celebration as on the theme “One people, one destiny, healing the past and building the future the ceremony reflected on the past, need for stock taking, reconciliation, a united national identity to rebuild a peaceful Liberia, endowed with rich natural resources”.

The President was accompanied by the Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, the Chief of Defence Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, Lt. General William Agyapong and Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, Stanislav Xoese Dogbe.

– on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

Source: APO – Report:

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The Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (GoE), in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC), is pleased to share key updates on preparations for the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2), taking place 8-10 September 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 

The Government of Ethiopia and the African Union Commission are mobilizing the dignitaries at all levels: Heads of State, ministers, technical experts towards the successful summit that aims Africa’s priorities at the center of the global climate negotiations.     

About ACS2
The Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) builds on the legacy of the inaugural 2023 Nairobi Summit (ACS1) and aims to position Africa as a leader and solutions provider in the global climate agenda under the theme: “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development”.  

Building on the momentum of ACS1, the summit will highlight African-led solutions, track progress on commitments, and define a roadmap for implementation. It will also focus on strengthening systems and institutions to drive impacts, with sessions dedicated to climate finance, just transitions, adaptation, resilience, trade, innovation and technology.

ACS2 is strategically timed between the G20, UNGA, and COP30, providing Africa with a platform to shape the global climate and finance agendas around its priorities and realities. The Summit will showcase successful initiatives, launch new partnerships, and align regional action with international processes.

The Summit will feature high-level plenary sessions, ministerial roundtables, side events and exhibitions, youth forums, and regional pavilions, while spotlighting successful African initiatives in energy, food systems, innovation, and climate-smart infrastructure, among others.

“The urgent need for global cooperation has never been clearer, as Africa strives to combat various climate-related challenges. “The ACS2 provides a pivotal moment for us to show leadership in climate actions and showcase the continent as a solution provider. I urge our partners to support us and our member states in building a climate-resilient and green development agenda for the Africa We Want”. H.E. Moses Vilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, African Union Commission. 

“Africa needs a platform that reflects its priorities and drives real outcomes. ACS2 is that platform. It brings voices together, builds alignment and alliances, and creates the space to turn ambition into action on our terms.” H.E Dr. Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Planning and Development, Ethiopia. 

Key Highlights:

Engagement with Major Stakeholders
Over the past two weeks, the ACS2 teams have been successfully convening targeted roundtable and briefing sessions with key stakeholders; including, AU Member States, high-level diplomatic missions, UN agencies, philanthropies and foundations, Africa Ministerial Conference on Environment (AMCEN) member states, and non-state actors. These sessions have helped align expectations and deepen support for the summit’s collaborative approach.

45+ African Heads of State and Government expected to attend:
With this landmark summit, African and global climate leaders together with all stakeholders will gather to make an actionable climate dialogue, showcase proven African led Climate Solutions and decide the future of Africa in the global climate regime.   

Overwhelming Response to Side Events
The online portal has already received over 100 side event proposals, representing thematic diversity and regional balance across Africa. The organizing committee continues to process submissions and encourages early application to secure space.

Pavilion Space in High Demand
Of the dedicated thematic pavilions planned for the venue, more than 50% have already been secured. Governments, institutions, and partners are encouraged to express interest early, as availability is becoming limited.

Continued call for Partnership 
Ethiopia and the African Union Commission invite further financial and in-kind contributions from partners and stakeholders in support of the ACS2 delivery, visibility, and impact. Contributions will help scale innovations in logistics, technology, youth engagement, and sustainability. The GoE and AUC call upon all member States, stakeholders and partners to join forces in supporting for the preparations of the Summit from now to the Summit dates and prepare themselves for a meaningful engagement through the three days of the Summit.

– on behalf of African Union (AU).

Source: APO – Report:

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His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone and Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, has been honoured with a plaque of recognition by the Government of Liberia in appreciation of Sierra Leone’s critical contribution to the peacekeeping efforts that helped restore stability during Liberia’s civil conflict.

The presentation took place during the celebration of Liberia’s 178th Independence Anniversary at the Centennial Memorial Pavilion in Monrovia. The commemorative plaque acknowledged the sacrifices of Sierra Leonean men and women, both in and out of uniform, who served through the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) during Liberia’s most difficult years.

In a powerful keynote address themed “One People, One Destiny: Healing the Past, Building the Future,” President Bio reflected on his own role as a young officer in the Sierra Leone Armed Forces deployed to Liberia with ECOMOG. “I once stood on this sacred soil not as a visitor, but as a peacemaker,” he said. “I remember walking the streets of White Plains, Gardnersville, and Monrovia Freeport during a time of great hardship. Even then, I could sense the deep endurance of the Liberian people.”

President Bio described the recognition as a deeply personal and humbling moment. “To be honoured on this day is not just a diplomatic courtesy, it is a homecoming. We receive this honour with pride and renewed commitment to regional unity, democratic stability, and shared peace.”

Also addressing the gathering, Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, expressed profound gratitude to all ECOMOG troop-contributing countries, singling out President Bio for his personal role during the conflict. “You stood with us in our most difficult time,” she said. “The true legacy of ECOMOG is not only found on the battlefield or in treaties signed, but in the peace we enjoy today.”

The celebration brought together Heads of State and representatives from across the region, including President Joseph Nyuma Boakai of Liberia, President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal.

President Bio emphasized the deep cultural and historical ties between Sierra Leone and Liberia, calling the two nations “twin souls” bound by shared rivers, languages, and struggles. “When Liberia trembled under the weight of war, Sierra Leone felt the tremors too. And when we cried out in our own agony, you mourned with us. This is not coincidence. This is kinship,” he declared.

In his capacity as ECOWAS Chair, President Bio also used the moment to outline key regional priorities, including revitalizing regional security cooperation, strengthening democracy, unlocking economic integration, and building institutional credibility. “Let us align our goals in trade, education, and security and let the Mano River Union become a living promise of solidarity. Let our borders bind, not divide.”

He called on West African nations to recommit to regional cooperation not only in times of crisis but as a daily practice of development and peacebuilding. “Our youth are crossing borders in search of opportunity. Let us build systems that allow them to do so safely, legally, and with dignity,” he urged.

President Bio concluded his keynote with a heartfelt tribute to the people of Liberia. “Thank you for reminding the world that peace is not only possible. it is powerful. May God bless the Republic of Liberia, may God bless the Republic of Sierra Leone, and may God bless the deep, enduring friendship that binds us.”

President Bio arrived in Monrovia by road this morning and is scheduled to return to Sierra Leone later today via the same route.

– on behalf of State House Sierra Leone.