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UKZN launches advanced manufacturing facility to enhance aerospace innovation

Source: Government of South Africa

UKZN launches advanced manufacturing facility to enhance aerospace innovation

The future of aerospace engineering in South Africa made significant progress this week with the grand opening of the advanced manufacturing facility, along with the new headquarters of the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).

Unveiled by Director-General of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Dr Mlungisi Cele, on Tuesday, the state-of-the-art hub is a strategic step towards ensuring the global competitiveness of the country’s innovation system.

Cele highlighted the value of strategic government, higher education and industry alliances to achieve national priorities.  

He emphasised that the ASRI and advanced manufacturing initiatives strengthened the link between research excellence and industrial application – a cornerstone of the department’s vision for a more innovative, inclusive and sustainable economy.

“Our economy urgently needs a new generation of skilled engineers, scientists and innovators who can drive productivity, competitiveness and inclusive growth. Facilities like this one play a crucial role in meeting that need. They provide students with hands-on experience using cutting-edge technologies while fostering the creativity and problem-solving skills that are vital for our nation’s future,” he said.

He identified additive manufacturing, robotics and advanced materials as important areas for capacity development.  

Cele added that the DSTI’s Science, Technology and Innovation Decadal Plan stressed the need to promote localisation and technology-driven manufacturing, and to equip the youth with the skills and opportunities needed for the fourth industrial revolution.

ASRI, which was originally founded in 2009 as the Aerospace Systems Research Group, became an official institute within the School of Engineering at the UKZN in 2022. 

Its mission is to establish itself as a global centre of excellence in aerospace propulsion research and development. 

ASRI aims to support South Africa’s space engineering economy and to cultivate skilled human capital in aerospace propulsion engineering.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science at UKZN, Professor Fhatuwani Mudau, expressed gratitude to the DSTI for their trust in the university. 

He assured that the investment would be utilised to transform the university into a catalyst for change, positioning ASRI as a model and leader in advancing science and building capacity within the country.

Mudau stated that he was excited by the national recognition that UKZN had earned through ASRI’s rocket science.

He encouraged the young engineers working at ASRI and the advanced manufacturing facility to use the opportunity fully.  

Professor of Aerospace Engineering at UKZN, Glen Snedden, said the new office infrastructure and manufacturing capability represented a visible commitment to the programme, which was both enabling and motivating for the engineers and students. 

ASRI also offers postgraduate study opportunities to promising students from around the country and is currently working with graduates from Stellenbosch University, the Universities of Pretoria and the Witwatersrand, as well as UKZN.

Snedden said the next step would be to move to a newly developed facility on a vacant piece of university land. 

“This would see the development of a local test capability for the static firing of our motors, and, with further development, we envisage the co-development of a production facility, offices, lecture theatres and an outreach centre, all built around the idea of aerospace studies and research. If all goes well, we will be launching a suborbital rocket into space within five years and progressing to orbital launches within 10 years,“ he concluded.

The new ASRI offices feature, among other things, a boardroom with teleconferencing capabilities, a meeting room for smaller gatherings and an advanced computing facility for simulation work. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Nzimande mourns passing of Prof Keo Shirley Motaung

Source: Government of South Africa

Nzimande mourns passing of Prof Keo Shirley Motaung

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has expressed deep sadness over the passing of Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung.

Motaung served as the Chair of the Female Academic Leaders Fellowship at the Financial Research and Entrepreneurship Foundation – Nelson Mandela University Research Chair in Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion, where she led transformative research that connected innovation, commercialisation, and entrepreneurship.

Motaung has been described as a distinguished biomedical scientist, entrepreneur and visionary leader, whose contributions to science, innovation and women’s empowerment have left an indelible mark on South Africa and beyond.

She was the founder and CEO of Global Health Biotech, which is best known for developing La-Africa Soother – a plant-based anti-inflammatory ointment made from indigenous medicinal plants. 

The ointment effectively relieves muscle and joint aches, offering athletes and women a natural alternative for anti-inflammatory relief.

According to the Nzimande, Professor Keo, as she was affectionately known, was one of South Africa’s most decorated black female scientists and academics.

“For over two decades, she dedicated her knowledge and skills to the advancement of higher education, scientific knowledge, entrepreneurship, and capacity building,” Nzimande said. 

As a scientist, the Minister said one of Motaung’s seminal contributions was in stem cells, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. 

“As an academic visionary, she contributed to the training of thousands of young black scientists and researchers. She was particularly passionate about the development of young black female scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs.”

In this area of her work, Nzimande said Motaung made a significant contribution to the country’s development goals, particularly in creating jobs for young people and increasing the number of Black female graduates in STEAMI (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Innovation).

He also honoured the exceptional leader and patriot, who contributed to the country through various national and global organisations, including the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Community of Practice for Entrepreneurship Research, and the Board of the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA).

Motaung has received several prestigious national and international honours, including the Strategic African Women in Leadership (SAWIL) Trailblazers’ Award, the Inventor of the Year Award from Tshwane University of Technology, the Institute of People Management (IPM) Business Leader of the Year Award, and the Distinguished Woman Scientist Award from the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation.

In her work, the Minister stated that Motaung displayed an irrepressible commitment to impactful research and innovation-driven entrepreneurship. 

“More fundamentally, she was driven by a deep commitment to change the lives of ordinary people through education, science and entrepreneurship.

“As a tribute to her selfless contribution to South Africa’s development, we should use her legacy as inspiration to ensure that more black girls can fulfil their dreams of becoming scientists, academics, and entrepreneurs,” the Minister said.

On behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, as well as all entities in the National System of Innovation, the Minister expressed his heartfelt condolences to Motaung’s children, family, friends and colleagues. – SAnews.gov.za

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North West targets 6 000 hectares for crop production

Source: Government of South Africa

North West targets 6 000 hectares for crop production

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has committed to cultivating 6 000 hectares of land across the province’s four districts under its Crop Massification Programme, which aims to support struggling farmers with essential inputs to bring arable land back into production.

The announcement was made by Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Madoda Sambatha, during the official launch of the 2025/26 Provincial Planting Season at the Retladirela Cooperative in Dwarskraal, Tswaing Local Municipality, on Thursday.

Held under the theme: “Sustainable Crop Production for Food Security and Growth”, the event brought together farmers, stakeholders, and partners from across the province to promote best practices in grain production and mechanized farming.

The Provincial Planting Season serves as a key intervention to activate land, enhance productivity, and support both emerging and established farmers with technical knowledge and production inputs.

Sambatha said that more than 2 500 hectares have been earmarked for production in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District alone during the current financial year, supported by an investment exceeding R23 million.

“Planting is never about the present season; it is about shaping the future. Every seed we sow is a declaration of intent: to nourish communities, uplift rural economies, and build a resilient, self-sustaining province,” the MEC said.

Sambatha emphasised that empowering farmers with both resources and technical knowledge is central to achieving sustainable agricultural growth and ensuring that every hectare of productive land contributes meaningfully to food security and inclusive economic growth.

The Retladirela Cooperative, established in 2005 and operating on 565 hectares, is one of the key beneficiaries of the Crop Massification Programme. For the current season, the cooperative will plant maize and sugar beans across 250 hectares.

Cooperative member Nkwe Metswamere welcomed the department’s continued support, highlighting that recent mechanisation assistance from the National Department of Land Reform and Rural Development has significantly improved operational efficiency.

“The recent mechanisation support received has significantly improved operational efficiency and reduced the time required for soil preparation and planting,” Metswamere said.

The mechanisation package provided includes two tractors, two ripper machines, an eight-row planter, a 24-disc offset, a 10-ton trailer, 1 000-litre boom sprayers, and production inputs.

These were showcased during live demonstrations at the launch, giving farmers hands-on experience with modern mechanisation techniques that enhances planting precision and optimises the use of agrochemicals.

Metswamere encouraged farmers to remain patient and consistent in engaging with government programmes, emphasising that, “persistence and adherence to proper channels yield tangible results.”

Driving sustainable agricultural growth

Sambatha said the launch of the 2025/26 planting season in Dwarskraal, marked a decisive step forward in strengthening the province’s agricultural base and expanding its productive capacity.

“With a clear focus on land activation, farmer support, and sustainable production, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has laid the groundwork for a season defined by collaboration, resilience, and growth.” 

As the programme unfolds, Sambatha said the department’s emphasis will remain on translating policy into practical outcomes, ensuring that every hectare cultivated contributes to food security, economic development, and the long-term vitality of farming communities across the North West. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

 

 

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Ad Hoc Committee into SAPS allegations suspends proceedings

Source: Government of South Africa

Ad Hoc Committee into SAPS allegations suspends proceedings

The Ad Hoc Committee established to investigate allegations made by the South African Police Service (SAPS) KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has suspended its proceedings, following unsatisfactory testimony from Mchunu Nkabinde.

Nkabinde is the Chief of Staff in the Office of the Minister of Police.

During Thursday’s hearing, Nkabinde was unable to provide clarity on key matters, including the sequence of events relating to his contact with North West businessman Brown Mogotsi. 

The committee found the evidence presented to be inconsistent and lacking in accuracy, particularly regarding matters that could have been easily verified through the Minister’s official diary.

“The witness failed to provide clear and truthful responses to straightforward questions. Despite his senior position, he could not confirm basic calendar details and demonstrated no intention to be forthright with the committee,” Ad Hoc Committee Chairperson Soviet Lekganyane said on Thursday.

The committee resolved to discontinue the proceedings for the day and will consider rescheduling Nkabinde’s appearance at a later stage. 

The Parliamentary Legal Services team has been requested to advise on any potential consequences arising from the witness’s conduct before the committee.

“The committee remains committed to executing its mandate in a thorough, fair and transparent manner. We expect all witnesses appearing before us to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability. 

“The work of this committee is undertaken in the interests of the people of South Africa, and we will not allow the process to be undermined by unprepared or untruthful testimony,” the chairperson said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Work to restore eThekwini progressing well

Source: Government of South Africa

Plans are well on track to restore the eThekwini municipality as it aims to ensure that it attracts investors and tourists as well as improve service delivery for residents.

This as the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) undertook an Inspection in Loco across selected sites within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality on Thursday.

Led by the Presidency under the leadership of the Director-General Phindile Baleni as the co-chair of the project, in partnership with the eThekwini Municipality, the visits assessed progress achieved so far. This is through coordinated interventions under the PeWG, with a focus on tourism revitalisation, inner-city regeneration and key water and environmental infrastructure projects.

According to the PeWG, the project is also aimed at restoring public confidence and service delivery in the metro.
The group expressed satisfaction with the progress made in and around the city.

Baleni explained that when the group began its work, the task was to move from frustration to focus, and talk to tangible action.

“As we would be aware, this project has been experiencing delays due to funding shortfalls. The PeWG hosted the Umlazi Canal Financing Workshop which discussed funding solutions to ensure this critical piece of work proceeds.”

Baleni said the projects are proof that partnerships and collaboration do work.

“The PeWG has made it possible for government, business and social partners to work collaboratively in resolving mutual areas of frustration. Through the PeWG, we have seen what happens when government leads with clarity and accountability.

“Today is not merely about visiting sites. It is about reflection and recommitment, celebrating progress, identifying bottlenecks, and accelerating delivery where it matters most. 

Ensuring change

In his remarks, Micheal Mabuyakhulu, who is also the co-chair of the project said the inspection is more than just about site visits, but an accountability exercise.

“It is about ensuring that the progress we report translates into visible change in the lives of the people we serve,” he said.

Mabuyakhulu said over the past year and a half, the PeWG has evolved into one of the most effective collaborative platforms in the country.

“We have seen evidence of delivery through improved water revenue collection, upgraded infrastructure, enhanced safety operations, and stronger engagement between the public and private sectors,” he said.

He further explained that the inspection gives government a moment to listen directly to the technical teams, to see obstacles on the ground, and to strengthen coordination where gaps remain.

“It also allows us to celebrate the commitment of our social partners, particularly business, whose partnership and participation is critical to the success of the PeWG.

“As we move through the itinerary, let us remember that citizens are not waiting for promises, they are waiting for performance and tangible results. 

“The residents across eThekwini, traders in the CBD [central business district], and the industries and businesses operating in and around Phoenix Industrial Park and the South Durban Basin, are watching for signs that the promises of this partnership are becoming reality.

“The inspection forms part of ongoing efforts to accelerate service delivery, restore infrastructure functionality and strengthen investor and community confidence in the metro.”

Mabuyakhulu also assured eThekhwini residents that the projects will be delivered successfully.

“If something is working, we must replicate it. If something is stuck, we must unblock it quickly. That is what will restore public confidence in the state’s ability to serve.

“The success of today’s programme will rely on our ability to facilitate open and frank conversations. Beyond this, we need to swiftly ensure that we design effective solutions, focusing on clear actions and assigning clear responsibilities.”

Shared responsibility 

He added that the recovery of eThekwini Municipality, along with the success of the PeWG, relies on collective commitment and shared responsibility.

“While it is important that we address and discuss critical delays and areas of frustration, it is equally important that we collectively work towards implementing impactful solutions,” he said while also thanking all spheres of government and business leadership for their continued commitment. 

“As the PeWG, we remain firmly invested in ensuring that the outcomes of today’s inspection translate into clear follow-up actions, timelines and accountability.” 

The inspection forms part of ongoing efforts to accelerate service delivery, restore infrastructure functionality, and strengthen investor and community confidence in the metro. The projects are expected to be complete by next year.

Restoring investor confidence

Vice-President of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kim Macllwaine, said the projects will restore investor confidence in the metro.

“Progress has been made in the last 12 to 18 months of the Presidential Working Group, I hope that confidence will increase in the future,” he said.

Taking action 

In February 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa, accompanied by the then Minister of Police Bheki Cele, the then Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa and the then Public Works and Infrastructure Minister,Sihle Zikalala, met with the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry and various social partners to discuss service delivery challenges in the metro.

Challenges raised included interruptions to water supply, poorly maintained and damaged infrastructure due to the 2022 floods, a worrying decline in tourism numbers to the city, port efficiency concerns and crime. 

At the time, the President and the Ministers reiterated government’s commitment to addressing these challenges through a collaborative approach with social partners in eThekwini.

The Presidential eThekwini Working Group is co-chaired by the Director-General in the Presidency and Secretary of Cabinet, Phindile Baleni and former KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Michael Mabuyakhulu.

The group is responsible for reporting progress on the implementation of turnaround strategies to the President and Minsters every three weeks.

The learnings and outcomes of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group will inform similar interventions in other municipalities facing service delivery challenges.

Thursday’s inspection kicked off at Moses Mabhida Stadium which is undergoing rehabilitation.

The sites visited are the Umlazi Canal which is one of the most critical flood management infrastructures in the South Durban Basin, the Phoenix Industrial Park and the revitalisation of the Rivertown and the old Post Office building project where eThekwini has proven that urban renewal is possible. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement accorde un prêt de 100 millions de dollars à Emerging Africa and Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF) pour le développement d’infrastructures durables

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) stimule le développement d’infrastructures durables en Afrique grâce à un nouveau prêt de 100 millions de dollars accordé à l’Emerging Africa and Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF).

Ce financement, approuvé par le Conseil d’administration du Groupe de la Banque, aidera le l’EAAIF à attirer des investissements privés et à soutenir des projets dans les énergies renouvelables, la connectivité numérique, les transports et d’autres secteurs clés qui favorisent une croissance inclusive et la résilience climatique.

L’EAAIF est une société du Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), gérée par la société d’investissement Ninety One. Le prêt du Groupe de la Banque permettra au Fonds de continuer à mobiliser des capitaux privés pour des projets à fort impact qui élargissent l’accès aux services essentiels et favorisent une transformation économique durable en Afrique.

Cette opération s’inscrit dans le cadre du programme plus large de levée de fonds de l’EAAIF, qui vise à obtenir un financement à long terme de 300 millions de dollars en 2025 et à investir plus de 850 millions de dollars dans les infrastructures en Afrique et en Asie d’ici à 2027. Il s’agit du quatrième prêt de ce type accordé par le Groupe de la Banque au Fonds.

« Ce partenariat avec l’Emerging Africa and Asia Infrastructure Fund nous permet de débloquer des financements à long terme pour des projets essentiels qui stimulent les économies, créent des emplois et améliorent les conditions de vie en Afrique », a déclaré Mike Salawou, directeur du Département des infrastructures et du développement urbain de la Banque africaine de développement. Avant d’ajouter : « Il contribue également à combler le déficit de financement des infrastructures du continent en attirant des capitaux privés vers des projets à fort impact dans les marchés émergents et frontières. »

« Nous sommes ravis d’approfondir notre partenariat avec la Banque africaine de développement, a salué Sumit Kanodia, directeur chez Ninety One. Ce prêt nous permettra de financer davantage de projets dans les énergies renouvelables, le numérique et les transports, qui favorisent une croissance inclusive, créent des emplois et renforcent la résilience climatique dans la région. »

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
EAAIF :
Tom Collins
consultant senior
Pôle Afrique  
tcollins@africapractice.com

Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Alexis Adélé
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
media@afdb.org

À propos de l’Emerging Africa and Asia Infrastructure Fund :
L’Emerging Africa and Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF) est un véhicule de financement mixte qui lève et déploie des capitaux d’emprunt publics et privés pour financer des projets d’infrastructure transformateurs en Afrique, dans la région du Levant et en Asie du Sud et du Sud-Est. L’EAAIF propose divers produits de dette à des conditions commerciales pour des projets d’infrastructure principalement détenus, gérés activement et exploités par les meilleurs experts du secteur privé. Le Fonds contribue à créer le cadre infrastructurel indispensable pour stimuler la stabilité économique, la confiance des entreprises, la création d’emplois et la réduction de la pauvreté. Le portefeuille de prêts engagés par l’EAAIF s’élève à 1,6 milliard de dollars, investis dans 25 pays et 10 secteurs d’infrastructure. L’EAAIF, qui fait partie du Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), a été créé et financé en grande partie par le Royaume-Uni, les Pays-Bas, la Suisse et la Suède. En outre, il lève des capitaux d’emprunt auprès de bailleurs de fonds publics et privés. L’EAAIF est géré par Ninety One.

Pour en savoir plus : www.EAIF.com

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est la première institution de financement du développement en Afrique. Il comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement, le Fonds africain de développement et le Fonds spécial du Nigéria. Présent dans 41 pays africains et disposant d’un bureau de représentation asiatique au Japon, le Groupe de la Banque contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 États membres régionaux. Plus d’informations : www.AfDB.org

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President Ramaphosa to participate in the Ceo–City Cleanup Programme in Johannesburg

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 14 November 2025 participate in the CEO-City Cleanup Partnership Programme in Kliptown, Johannesburg.

This is a key initiative by the City of Johannesburg in Partnership with the Private Sector. The programme unites entities and prominent CEOs from Johannesburg and aims to expedite urban renewal, enhance service delivery, and restore dignity within high-priority precincts. 

The Executive Mayor of Johannesburg Councillor Dada Morero launched the  program earlier in the week and articulated  the collaborative efforts between the City and the business community to foster visible progress, ensure sustainable precinct management, and promote long-term investment in the revitalisation of Johannesburg. 

Through this initiative, Government aims to demonstrate a new era of shared accountability and collective action.

CEO-City Cleanup is the first central activation under the partnership model, demonstrating how government and business are collaborating to create a cleaner, safer, and more competitive Johannesburg.

Members of the media wishing to cover the event are requested to send their details via WhatsApp to Ms Khathutshelo Mulaudzi on 070 362 3295 and Ms Patience Mtshali on 083 376 9468 

The media is invited as follows:

Date: Friday, 14 November 2025
Time: 08h30 (media to arrive at 7h00)
Venue: Kliptown, Soweto (Walter Sisulu Square)

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement accorde 310 millions de dollars à FirstRand Bank pour accroître ses prêts aux MPME, entrepreneures et entreprises agro-industrielles sud-africaines

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) accorde 310 millions de dollars à FirstRand Bank pour accroître ses prêts aux MPME, entrepreneures et entreprises agro-industrielles sud-africaines

PRETORIA, Afrique du Sud, le 13 novembre 2025 — Le Conseil d’administration du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement a accordé un paquet financier de 310 millions de dollars à FirstRand Bank, l’une des plus grandes institutions financières du continent. Ce soutien permettra d’accroître significativement l’accès au financement des micro, petites et moyennes entreprises (MPME), avec un accent particulier sur les entreprises dirigées et détenues par des femmes et les entreprises agro-industrielles en Afrique du Sud.

FirstRand Bank est une filiale détenue à 100 % par FirstRand Group.

Ce paquet de financement complet témoigne du soutien continu du Groupe de la Banque à la croissance tirée par le secteur privé et de sa confiance dans le bilan de FNB, la principale franchise bancaire commerciale de FirstRand, pour soutenir la transformation socio-économique et la croissance inclusive de l’Afrique du Sud, en particulier par l’autonomisation des entrepreneures et des entreprises agricoles à l’échelle nationale.

Le montage financier comprend trois volets stratégiques : une ligne de crédit de 200 millions de dollars destinée à être redistribuée aux MPME de divers secteurs ; une ligne de crédit sexospécifique de 100 millions de dollars dédiée aux MPME détenues par des femmes ; et une ligne de crédit concessionnelle de dix millions de dollars issue du Mécanisme de financement catalytique pour les PME agroalimentaires et ciblant les petites entreprises agricoles détenues par des femmes.

« Cette approbation souligne la volonté de la Banque africaine de développement de soutenir le secteur privé et de favoriser une croissance économique inclusive en Afrique du Sud », a déclaré Kennedy Mbekeani, directeur général du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement pour l’Afrique australe. « En acheminant ces ressources par l’intermédiaire de FirstRand en particulier de sa franchise bancaire commerciale, la FNB, nous travaillons avec des partenaires de confiance ayant une portée étendue pour veiller à ce que les MPME — notamment celles détenues par des femmes — aient accès au capital dont elles ont besoin pour se développer, créer des emplois et contribuer au développement économique de l’Afrique du Sud. »

Une caractéristique déterminante de cette approbation du Groupe de la Banque est son orientation résolument axée sur le genre : 110 millions de dollars (plus d’un tiers du paquet financier total) sont réservés aux MPME détenues par des femmes. Cette approche intentionnelle du genre s’aligne sur le programme AFAWA (« Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa ») de la Banque et sur les initiatives du Mécanisme de financement catalytique pour les PME agroalimentaires (ACFM), démontrant ainsi l’engagement du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement à combler le fossé entre les genres en Afrique.

Le financement concessionnel est, dans sa conception, réservé aux petites entreprises détenues par des femmes et opérant dans le secteur agricole sud-africain afin d’accroître de manière significative leur accès à un crédit abordable à des conditions favorables. La plupart des petits exploitants agricoles d’Afrique du Sud restent exclus de l’accès au crédit bancaire alors qu’ils représentent une part importante de la population agricole.

Le paquet financier sera complété par une assistance technique et des incitations basées sur la performance dans le cadre des initiatives ACFM et AFAWA du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement. Les mesures d’assistance technique visent à améliorer la bancabilité des petites entreprises dirigées ou détenues par des femmes, à soutenir l’offre agricole de la FNB (la franchise de banque commerciale de FirstRand) et à explorer d’autres méthodes d’évaluation du crédit.

« L’approbation de ce paquet financier représente une étape importante et le renforcement de ce partenariat à impact entre la Banque africaine de développement et FirstRand. Il témoigne de l’engagement commun des deux institutions à stimuler la croissance économique inclusive et l’autonomisation des communautés d’affaires largement privées de crédit en Afrique du Sud, en canalisant le crédit vers les entrepreneures et les petits exploitants agricoles », a déclaré Ahmed Attout, directeur du Département du développement du secteur financier de la Banque africaine de développement

« Les MPME contribuent de manière significative à la croissance économique de l’Afrique du Sud en soutenant la création d’emplois et le développement des communautés. La banque commerciale de FirstRand, la FNB, a prouvé qu’elle était capable de fournir des capacités aux entreprises détenues par des femmes et aux petites entreprises du secteur agricole, contribuant ainsi au développement des communautés », a déclaré Bhulesh Singh, trésorier de FirstRand Group.

Cette opération s’inscrit dans le cadre des priorités de développement des « Quatre points cardinaux » du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement. Elle soutient également la Stratégie décennale de l’institution panafricaine (2024-2033), qui met l’accent sur la croissance inclusive, le développement du secteur privé et l’égalité de genre.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est la principale institution de financement du développement en Afrique. Il comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds spécial du Nigeria (FSN). Représentée dans 41 pays africains, avec un bureau extérieur au Japon, la Banque contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 États membres régionaux. Pour plus d’informations: www.AfDB.org

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African Development Bank approves $310 million financial package for FirstRand Bank to scale up lending to MSMEs, women entrepreneurs and agribusinesses in South Africa

Source: APO – Report:

.

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $310 million financial package to FirstRand Bank, one of the largest financial institutions in Africa. This support will significantly increase access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized business enterprises (MSMEs), with a particular focus on women-led businesses and agribusinesses in South Africa.

FirstRand Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of the FirstRand Group.

This comprehensive financing package demonstrates the African Development Bank’s continued support for private-sector-led growth and its confidence in FNB, FirstRand’s leading commercial banking franchise, to support South Africa’s socio-economic transformation and inclusive growth, particularly through empowering women entrepreneurs and agricultural businesses nationwide.

The package comprises three strategic components: a $200 million line of credit for on-lending to MSMEs across various sectors; a $100 million gender-focused line of credit dedicated to women-led and women-owned MSMEs; and a $10 million concessional line of credit from the Agri-Food SME Catalytic Financing Mechanism targeting women-owned agricultural small business enterprises.

“This approval highlights the African Development Bank’s dedication to bolstering the private sector and fostering inclusive economic growth in South Africa,” said Kennedy Mbekeani, African Development Bank’s Director General for Southern Africa. “By channeling these resources through FirstRand and, in particular, its commercial banking franchise, FNB, we are working with trusted partners with extensive reach to ensure that MSMEs —particularly those led by women —have access to the capital they need to grow, create jobs, and contribute to South Africa’s economic development.”

A defining feature of this approval is its strong gender focus: $110 million — more than one-third of the total financial package – is explicitly earmarked for women MSMEs. This intentional gender approach aligns with AfDB’s Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) and the Agri-Food SME Catalytic Financing Mechanism (ACFM) initiatives, demonstrating AfDB’s commitment to closing the gender financing gap in Africa.

The concessional funding is, by design, ring-fenced for women-owned small business enterprises operating in South Africa’s agriculture sector to significantly increase their access to affordable credit on favorable terms. Most smallholder farmers in South Africa remain excluded from accessing bank credit, yet they make up a significant proportion of the farming population.

The Financial Package will be complemented by technical assistance and Performance-Based Incentives from ACFM and AFAWA initiatives of the African Development Bank. The Technical assistance packages are intended to enhance the bankability of women-led/owned small business enterprises; support FNB’s (FirstRand’s commercial banking franchise) agriculture offerings; and explore alternative credit scoring.

“The approval of this financing package represents a significant milestone and elevation of this impactful partnership between the African Development Bank and FirstRand. It demonstrates both institutions’ shared commitment to driving inclusive economic growth and empowerment of the heavily credit-deprived business communities of South Africa by deliberately channeling credit to women entrepreneurs and smallholder farmers”, stated Ahmed Attout, Director of the Financial Sector Development Department at the African Development Bank

“MSMEs are significant contributors to South Africa’s economic growth, supporting job creation and community upliftment. FirstRand’s commercial banking arm, FNB, has demonstrated a strong track record in providing capacity to women-owned businesses and small businesses in the agricultural sector, which in turn supports community development,” said Bhulesh Singh, FirstRand Group Treasurer.

This operation aligns with the African Development Bank’s Four Cardinal Points development priorities. It also supports the Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024-2033), which focuses on inclusive growth, private sector development, and gender equality.

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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

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Qatar Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting International Efforts to Promote Human Rights

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, November 13, 2025

The State of Qatar has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing support for international efforts aimed at promoting, respecting, and protecting human rights for all.
This came in Qatar’s statement delivered by Noor Al Maarifi, member of Qatar’s delegation to the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, during the General Assembly’s general debate on item (66) regarding the report of the Human Rights Council, at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
Al Maarifi affirmed that the State of Qatar places the issue of respecting, protecting, and promoting human rights at the top of its priorities, noting that this commitment is reflected in a constitutional and legislative system that enshrines the principles of human rights and fundamental freedoms and guarantees their respect and protection for all, within an institutional framework that includes many bodies and institutions concerned with human rights, which actively contribute to their promotion and protection.
She explained that the State of Qatar is keen to fulfill its obligations under international human rights conventions and to maintain continuous engagement with the United Nations human rights mechanisms, pointing out that Qatar submitted its fourth national report to the Universal Periodic Review mechanism last November, as part of its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights.
She added that Qatar continues its active and positive role through its membership in the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term, and through constructive cooperation to enable the Council to achieve the noble goals for which it was established, affirming that this membership reflects the respect and status Qatar has built over the years as a credible international partner.
Al Maarifi stressed that Qatar is firmly committed to all issues related to humanitarian work and to international partnership and cooperation in addressing challenges, which form a cornerstone of its policy, and continues to play a leading role in providing humanitarian assistance.
She noted that from 2012 until June 2023, the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) provided development and humanitarian aid to many countries, aiming to achieve goals in development, humanitarian work, and human rights, with a total value exceeding USD 6 billion, targeting key sectors such as education, healthcare, economic growth, and relief.
She pointed out that Qatar continues to support the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and looks forward to continuing these efforts in the future, expressing pride in hosting the United Nations Training and Documentation Centre for South-West Asia and the Arab Region in the field of human rights.
She noted that the Human Rights Council’s report included a list of resolutions and decisions, among them those related to the human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, and the commitment to ensuring accountability and justice, which expressed concern over the grave consequences of the conflict in and around the Gaza Strip, including the high number of casualties, especially among Palestinian civilians.
She reiterated Qatar’s condemnation of all forms of targeting civilians and its continued firm policy of solidarity with the brotherly Palestinian people, and its efforts to achieve security and stability in the region.