Category: MIL-OSI

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Qatar Reaffirms Commitment to Peaceful Dispute Resolution

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, July 23

The State of Qatar foreign policy gives the highest priority to the peaceful settlement of disputes, particularly through mediation. This commitment is reflected in a track record of successful mediation efforts that have contributed to enhancing security and stability across various regions of the world, HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani stated.

Delivering Qatar statement before the Security Council s high-level open debate on Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes at the UN Headquarters in New York, Her Excellency highlighted the tripartite summit held last March in Doha, during which HH the Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani hosted HE the President of the Republic of Rwanda and HE the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The summit contributed to creating favorable conditions for de-escalation, which led to the signing of the Declaration of Principles between representatives of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and representatives of the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement, last Saturday in Doha. This declaration complements the peace agreement signed last month in Washington, D.C., between the governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda under the auspices of HE President of the United States of America Donald Trump, and supports the path toward a comprehensive peace agreement facilitated by the State of Qatar.

On the situation in Afghanistan, Her Excellency reaffirmed that the State of Qatar will continue its mediation efforts to support the country in facing major challenges to achieving peace and stability. This includes hosting the UN-led Doha Process on Afghanistan, which aims to fully reintegrate Afghanistan into the international community.

Addressing the situation in the Gaza Strip, Her Excellency stated that the outbreak of war in Gaza in 2023 posed a serious challenge to the international community. In line with its unwavering commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes, the State of Qatar initiated intensive mediation efforts in cooperation with the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America. Despite the complexities, these efforts led to tangible outcomes, including a ceasefire agreement that improved humanitarian conditions and increased access to aid for civilians in the Gaza Strip, as well as the exchange of hundreds of prisoners and detainees. Mediation efforts are still ongoing to achieve a final ceasefire agreement that would bring an end to the war and its resulting humanitarian catastrophe.

Her Excellency emphasized that Qatar has spared no effort in working with regional and international partners to prevent the further escalation and regional spread of the conflict, while consistently warning of the grave consequences of regional destabilization. Nevertheless, despite repeated international warnings, the Israeli military escalation has persisted, not only in Gaza but also targeting Lebanese, Syrian, and other territories in the region, leading to heightened tensions and threatening the stability of the entire region, culminating in a peak last June.

She noted that the escalation on June 23 resulted in a direct missile attack on Qatari territory. However, Qatari air defenses successfully intercepted the missile, preserving the country s territorial integrity.

Her Excellency further stated that Qatar was among the first countries to warn of the dangers of regional conflict escalation and the consequences of continued Israeli military actions. She reiterated Qatar s call for prioritizing diplomatic solutions, upholding the principles of good neighborliness, and exercising restraint over escalation. She also welcomed the ceasefire reached between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Israel, expressing hope that both parties would adhere to it and that it would serve as a foundation for meaningful dialogue and diplomacy, paving the way toward sustainable peace and stability.

In conclusion, Her Excellency reiterated Qatar’s emphasis on the need for the Security Council to maintain its commitment to advancing peaceful processes and political solutions to avoid further human suffering and promote global stability. She called on the Council to assume its responsibilities in preventing conflicts and addressing violations of international law by enforcing its resolutions, ensuring respect for international norms, and ending impunity. 

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Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) to hold its 20th Plenary Assembly in Kigali, Rwanda

Source: APO – Report:

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The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) (https://SECAM.org) will convene for its 20th Plenary Assembly from July 30 to August 4, 2025, in Kigali, Rwanda, under the theme: “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace.”

The plenary will bring together over 250 participants, including Cardinals, Bishops, Priests, Consecrated Men and Women, and Lay Leaders from across Africa and its islands, as well as partners from other continents.

The Kigali Assembly will assess the progress made since the 19th Assembly, held in 2022 in Accra, Ghana, and chart a visionary course for the Church in Africa. Key agenda items include:

  • Presentation of SECAM’s long-term vision document for 2025–2050, built around 12 foundational pillars such as evangelization, family leadership, youth engagement, care for creation, digital mission, and political responsibility.
  • A pastoral reflection on accompanying Catholics in complex cultural realities, including polygamous unions.
  • Discussions on governance, justice, peace, interfaith dialogue, climate change, and safeguarding.

The Assembly will also unveil the Triennial Strategic Plan (2025–2028) and initiate the renewal of SECAM’s leadership in line with its constitution.

Rev. Fr. Rafael Simbine Junior                      
Secretary General of SECAM                                                                                         

Accra, Ghana

– on behalf of Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

For more information, please get in touch with the Secretary General of SECAM at the following contact:
secamsg@yahoo.com
Communications Coordinators on the following contacts:
communications.secam@gmail.com
+233541717984
mutabazifide@gmail.com
+250783 462125

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United Arab Emirates (UAE) leaders congratulate Egyptian President on July 23 Revolution anniversary

Source: APO – Report:

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President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a congratulatory message to President Abdel-Fattah El Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt on July 23rd Revolution anniversary.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, sent similar congratulatory messages to President El Sisi and to Egyptian Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly.

– on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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La société nigériane Lekoil va présenter ses plans d’expansion et sa stratégie de croissance axée sur l’Environnemental, Social et de Gouvernance (ESG) lors de l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Edward During, directeur financier, et Sam Olotu, directeur technique de Lekoil, une société pétrolière et gazière axée sur l’Afrique, se joindront à la liste des leaders du secteur qui prendront la parole lors de l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 : Invest in African Energies au Cap. Leur participation intervient alors que la société indépendante nigériane continue de faire la une des journaux grâce à la rapidité d’exécution de ses projets, à l’augmentation de ses investissements et à son implication croissante dans les initiatives nationales de développement et de transition énergétique.

Lekoil détient des participations dans un portefeuille diversifié d’actifs marginaux et offshore à travers le Nigeria, avec un palmarès qui reflète à la fois ses réalisations techniques et la rapidité d’exécution de ses projets. La société faisait partie du consortium qui a foré les puits Ogo-1 et Ogo-1 ST dans la licence OPL 310 au large de Lagos en 2013, l’une des plus grandes découvertes offshore du Nigeria dans l’histoire récente, avec des ressources récupérables estimées à plus de 700 millions de barils d’équivalent pétrole. Forte de ce succès précoce, Lekoil a ensuite acquis une participation majoritaire dans le champ Otakikpo dans l’OML 11, dans l’État de Rivers, et l’a mis en production en seulement 18 mois, établissant ainsi une nouvelle référence en matière de rapidité et d’efficacité parmi les opérateurs locaux. Aujourd’hui, la société continue sur sa lancée à Otakikpo dans le cadre d’un plan d’expansion plus large visant à augmenter la production et à optimiser les infrastructures existantes.

Lekoil a aussi renforcé son engagement envers les principes ESG, en plaidant publiquement pour une meilleure intégration des pratiques environnementales, sociales et de gouvernance dans l’industrie énergétique africaine. En janvier 2025, Lekoil a annoncé un partenariat stratégique avec le gouvernement de l’État d’Akwa Ibom visant à débloquer des investissements dans toute la chaîne de valeur du pétrole et du gaz, avec une collaboration supplémentaire dans les domaines de l’agriculture et du développement communautaire. Ce partenariat reflète la vision à long terme de Lekoil, qui consiste à intégrer la production d’énergie à l’autonomisation économique locale, à créer des emplois et à permettre des retombées plus larges en matière de développement.

La direction de Lekoil a clairement indiqué qu’elle entendait servir de modèle pour montrer comment les entreprises énergétiques locales peuvent montrer la voie en ayant un impact socio-économique concret tout en atteignant les objectifs nationaux de production. L’opérateur indépendant vise à produire 250 000 barils de pétrole par jour à long terme, en alignant cette ambition sur une stratégie axée sur le développement de champs marginaux, les partenariats locaux et les investissements intégrés dans les infrastructures, la création d’emplois et la croissance régionale.

« Lors de l’AEW 2025, la participation de l’entreprise offrira un aperçu précieux de la manière dont les entreprises locales accélèrent non seulement le développement des champs, mais façonnent également le discours sur les politiques, les investissements et la durabilité à travers le continent. Lekoil devrait faire le point sur ses projets en cours d’expansion, ses partenariats stratégiques et son approche pour relever les défis hérités du passé et répondre aux exigences d’une transition énergétique juste et pragmatique. Alors que le Nigeria cherche à augmenter sa production et à exploiter le potentiel de ses réserves inexploitées, le parcours de Lekoil est un exemple convaincant de ce qu’il est possible de réaliser lorsque les capacités locales sont associées à un leadership ciblé et à des investissements collaboratifs », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’African Energy Chamber.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

À propos AEW : Invest in African Energies :
AEW : Invest in African Energies est la plateforme de choix pour les opérateurs de projets, les financiers, les fournisseurs de technologies et les gouvernements, et s’est imposée comme le lieu officiel pour la signature d’accords dans le domaine de l’énergie en Afrique. Rendez-vous sur www.AECWeek.com pour plus d’infos sur cet événement passionnant

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Nigeria’s Lekoil to Showcase Expansion Plans, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)-Driven Growth Strategy at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Source: APO – Report:

Edward During, Chief Financial Officer, and Sam Olotu, Chief Technical Officer of Africa-focused oil and gas company Lekoil, will join the lineup of industry leaders speaking at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies in Cape Town. Their participation comes as the Nigerian independent continues to make headlines with its rapid project execution, growing investments and increasing involvement in national development and energy transition initiatives.

Lekoil holds interests in a diverse portfolio of marginal and offshore assets across Nigeria, with a track record that reflects both technical achievement and rapid project execution. The company was part of the consortium that drilled the Ogo-1 and Ogo-1 ST wells in the OPL 310 license offshore Lagos in 2013 – one of the largest offshore discoveries in Nigeria in recent history, with estimated recoverable resources exceeding 700 million barrels of oil equivalent. Building on that early success, Lekoil later acquired a majority stake in the Otakikpo field in OML 11, Rivers State, and brought it into production within just 18 months – setting a new benchmark for speed and efficiency among indigenous operators. Today, the company continues to build momentum at Otakikpo as part of a wider expansion plan to boost output and optimize existing infrastructure.

Lekoil has also reinforced its commitment to ESG principles, with the company publicly advocating for stronger integration of environmental, social and governance practices across Africa’s energy industry. In January 2025, Lekoil announced a strategic partnership with the Akwa Ibom State Government aimed at unlocking investment across the oil and gas value chain, with additional collaboration in agriculture and community development. The partnership reflects Lekoil’s long-term vision of integrating energy production with local economic empowerment, creating jobs and enabling broader development benefits.

Lekoil’s leadership has made clear that it aims to serve as a model for how indigenous energy companies can lead the way in delivering tangible socioeconomic impact while meeting national production goals. The independent operator has targeted 250,000 barrels of oil per day in the long term, aligning this ambition with a strategy centered on marginal field development, local partnerships and integrated investment in infrastructure, job creation and regional growth.

“At AEW 2025, the company’s participation will offer valuable insight into how indigenous firms are not only accelerating field development, but also shaping policy, investment and sustainability discourse across the continent. Lekoil is expected to provide updates on its expanding project pipeline, strategic partnerships and its approach to navigating both legacy challenges and the demands of a just and pragmatic energy transition. As Nigeria looks to scale up production and unlock the potential of its untapped reserves, Lekoil’s trajectory serves as a compelling example of what’s possible when local capacity is matched with focused leadership and collaborative investment,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. 

– 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.

Media files

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From online to onstage: Attending an international Trade Fair in The Gambia for the first time

Source: APO – Report:

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Participating in trade shows is crucial for the growth of small businesses. It provides them opportunities to sell, network and enhance their visibility. Yet, many entrepreneurs, especially in least developed countries, struggle to participate in trade fairs due to high costs. That was the case for Mariama S. Ceesay, founder of Her Sacred Veil, a bespoke fashion brand in The Gambia.

“I had never participated in a trade show before because I did not have the financial means to cover the cost of a stall,” says Mariama. “As a small business owner, most of my resources focus on production and fulfilling customer orders.”

This changed when the European Union Youth Empowerment Project – Tourism and Creative Industries, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), stepped in. The project covered 90% of her stall fee, provided training and visibility products.

“I received training, help with my branding and an e-business card. Additionally, the project organized engaging activities around our stalls to attract more visitors and increase visibility for our businesses,” Mariama says said.

Before the fair, Her Sacred Veil operated mostly online. “I was mainly selling my products online through TikTok and WhatsApp. I used TikTok to showcase my products and reach a wider audience, while WhatsApp helped me manage orders and communicate directly with customers. Now at the trade fair, I was able to show the quality, creativity and craftsmanship that go into every outfit I design,” explains Mariama. 

The experience was a breakthrough. Mariama made several sales and gained a new customer base. “I was happy about the orders I received during and after the trade fair. I also made some useful business contacts that will hopefully lead to future opportunities,” she says.

Mariama’s highlight was connecting directly with new customers and hearing their positive feedback about her bespoke outfits. “It was exciting that people appreciated my designs and placed orders on the spot.”

She did not hit her target in terms of sales, but for Mariama, the trade fair was much more than that. `Sales were lower than expected, but I learned a lot, especially about converting interest into purchases.”

Now, the business owner is thinking bigger. She plans to attend more fairs and seek for support to acquire equipment and a showroom. “I’m currently working with one sewing machine. I dream of getting an overlock machine and creating a space that truly reflects my brand.”

– on behalf of International Trade Centre.

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President appoints new NYDA board members 

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed a new board for the National Youth Development Agency in terms of Section 9(1)(a) of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Act of 2008.

The new board members have been appointed for a period of three years starting from 1 August 2025.

“The Agency functions as a single, unitary structure addressing youth development issues at national, provincial and local government level,” the Presidency said in a statement on Tuesday.

The new board members are:
•    Kelly Sandra Baloyi
•    Thembisile Precious Mahuwa
•    Bonga Siphesihle Makhanya
•    Sibusiso Makhathini
•    Dr Wiseman Mfaniseni Mbatha
•    Dr Sunshine Minenhle Myende
•    Busisiwe Nandipha Nxumalo

“President Ramaphosa has also, in terms of Section 9(5)(a) of the NYDA Act, designated Dr Sunshine Minenhle Myende as the Chairperson of the of the National Youth Development Agency Board, and Mr Bonga Siphesihle Makhanya as the Deputy Chairperson of the Board.

“The President appreciates the willingness of the Board members to avail themselves for the national task of securing a promising future for the nation through the empowerment of young people,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Le Nouvel Ambassadeur de la République de Guinée Présente ses Lettres de Créance au Président Ramkalawan

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Son Excellence Monsieur Moriba Alain Koné, nouvel Ambassadeur Extraordinaire et Plénipotentiaire de la République de Guinéa auprès de la République des Seychelles, a officiellement présenté, ce mardi matin, ses Lettres de Créance à Son Excellence le Président Wavel Ramkalawan lors d’une cérémonie d’accréditation qui s’est déroulée à State House.

L’Ambassadeur Koné qui était accompagné de Mme Rose Yaramon Lamah Premier Conseiller et Chargée du Protocole, est le sixième Ambassadeur Extraordinaire et Plénipotentiaire de la République de Guinée à servir auprès de la République des Seychelles depuis l’établissement des relations diplomatiques entre les deux pays le 4 avril 1978.

Le Président Ramkalawan a chaleureusement accueilli l’Ambassadeur Koné et l’a félicité pour sa nomination à ce poste diplomatique distingué. Son Excellence Monsieur Koné a exprimé son engagement à renforcer les liens d’amitié et de coopération entre les deux pays et leurs peuples

Au cours de leurs discussions bilatérales, les deux dirigeants ont exploré les domaines de coopération éventuels, avec un accent particulier sur les domaines de l’éducation, de l’agriculture, du tourisme, des échanges culturels et de la pêche. Le Président et l’Ambassadeur ont souligné l’impératif d’approfondir la collaboration dans ces secteurs stratégiques pour le bénéfice mutuel et la prospérité des deux nations.

L’ Ambassadeur Koné est basé à Pretoria, en Afrique du Sud.

Cette étape diplomatique renforce le partenariat durable entre la République de Guinée et la République des Seychelles, fondé sur des valeurs partagées de coopération, de respect mutuel et d’avancement collectif au sein de la communauté internationale.

A noter que la cérémonie d’accréditation a été marquée par la présence du Ministre des Affaires Étrangères et du Tourisme, M. Sylvestre Radegonde, ainsi que de nombreux hauts fonctionnaires au nombre desquels la Directrice Générale des Affaires Bilatérales Mme Lindy Ernesta et la Troisième Secrétaire et Chargée du Dossier Guiné à la Division des Affaires Bilatérales, Mme Louisa Lepathy.

Distribué par APO Group pour State House Seychelles.

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Central African Republic Innovates with Nature-Based Solutions and Reaffirms Commitment to Urban Climate Resilience

Source: APO – Report:

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The World Bank approved today an additional grant financing in the amount of $9.175 million (just over CFAF 5.3 billion) from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for the Inclusive and Resilient Cities Project in the Central African Republic (PROVIR). This additional financing aims to improve access to climate-resilient infrastructure in the cities of Bangui and Berbérati by financing Nature-based Solutions, including the regeneration of urban forests and the planting of avenues and public spaces.

With this funding, about 300,000 people in Bangui and Berberati—including vulnerable groups such as refugees, internally displaced persons, returnees, women, and youth—will benefit from improved living conditions with improved access to flood-safe and erosion-protected infrastructure.

“The Central African Republic, which is ranked second in the world in terms of high vulnerability to climate change, is exposed to numerous natural disaster risks exacerbated by deforestation and climate change,” said Guido Rurangwa, World Bank Country Manager for the Central African Republic. “Nature-based solutions have great potential for the country. By combining these with grey infrastructure in Bangui and Berberati, they will increase rainwater retention capacity, reducing the risk of flooding and soil erosion. Their multi-purpose nature will also provide many livelihood opportunities ranging from forest products to fishing opportunities.”

PROVIR is part of the World Bank’s programmatic support to the urban development sector in the Central African Republic and adopts an integrated approach. It supports the World Bank Group’s climate change and resilience agenda, including the Climate Change Action Plan (2021-2025), which aims to promote green, resilient, and inclusive development and competitive cities.

Project preparation benefited from technical assistance and grants from the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), City Climate Finance Gap Fund (Gap Fund), and NBS Invest.

– on behalf of The World Bank Group.

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New Bangladeshi High-Commissioner Presents Credentials to President Ramkalawan

Source: APO – Report:

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His Excellency Mr. Zokey Ahad, the newly appointed High Commissioner designate of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to the Republic of Seychelles, formally presented his letters of credence to President Wavel Ramkalawan during a ceremonial reception at State House this morning.

 President Ramkalawan extended his congratulations to High Commissioner Ahad upon his appointment, acknowledging the enduring diplomatic partnership between Seychelles and Bangladesh that has flourished and strengthened over four decades of sustained collaboration.

 On behalf of the Government and People of Seychelles, the Head of State conveyed the country’s deepest condolences and solidarity to the People and Government of Bangladesh following the tragic plane crash. “Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and all those affected during this difficult time. Seychelles stands with Bangladesh in this moment of sorrow.”

His Excellency Ahad expressed profound honour and appreciation for his new diplomatic role, conveying the warm felicitations and best wishes of His Excellency Mohammed Shahabuddin, President of Bangladesh, to the Government and people of the Republic of Seychelles. 

Discussions between the two leaders centred on strengthening existing frameworks of cooperation across key strategic sectors, including agriculture, climate change mitigation, fisheries development, tourism, and marine security. Both dignitaries also explored innovative avenues for collaboration aimed at further enhancing the longstanding and robust bilateral partnership between the two island nations. 

Addressing members of the press following the accreditation ceremony, High Commissioner Ahad underscored the unwavering commitment of both governments to deepening and diversifying their bilateral relationship across multiple sectors of mutual strategic interest and benefit.

The Republic of Seychelles and the People’s Republic of Bangladesh established formal diplomatic relations in February 1983, marking over four decades of sustained cooperation, friendship, and mutual understanding. His Excellency Mr. Zokey Ahad succeeds his distinguished predecessor, Her Excellency Rezina Ahmed, and will conduct his diplomatic mission from the High Commission’s regional headquarters in Port Louis, Mauritius.

Present for the ceremony were the Minster for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, Director General Bilateral Affairs, Ms Lindy Ernesta and Second Secretary, Mr Davis Mathiot.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.