Category: MIL-OSI

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Afreximbank conclut un ensemble de prêts d’une valeur de 190 millions de dollars US en faveur de CBZ Bank de Zimbabwe

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a conclu des accords de financement d’un montant total de 190 millions de dollars US en faveur de CBZ Bank Limited du Zimbabwe, en vue de soutenir la croissance économique de ce pays.

Ces accords de facilités, au nombre de trois, ont été signés à El Alamein, en Égypte, par Haytham Elmaayergi, Vice-président exécutif, Global Trade Bank, Afreximbank, et Valeta Mthimkhulu, Directrice générale de CBZ Bank Limited. Ils visent à renforcer la capacité de CBZ Bank à proposer des produits de financement aux entreprises zimbabwéennes.

La première facilité est une facilité de financement commercial renouvelable de 150 millions de dollars US accordée à CBZ Bank Limited, afin de lui permettre d’octroyer des financements et des lettres de crédit aux entreprises zimbabwéennes, contribuant ainsi à combler le déficit de financement du commerce en Afrique.

Une deuxième facilité, d’un montant de 20 millions de dollars US et composée de deux tranches, est destinée au financement des PME. Elle soutiendra CBZ Bank Limited en renforçant sa capacité à accompagner les petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) engagées dans le commerce et d’autres activités liées au commerce. Elle devrait renforcer la capacité de CBZ Bank à soutenir les PME par le biais de produits de financement et de renforcement des capacités.

Enfin, les deux institutions ont également signé un accord portant sur une facilité de prêt de 20 millions de dollars US en deux tranches accordée à CBZ Bank Limited, afin de contribuer à réduire les déficits énergétiques et à renforcer la stabilité de l’approvisionnement en électricité au Zimbabwe et dans la région de la SADC. Cet accord permettra ainsi à CBZ Bank de participer à une facilité syndiquée de 210 millions de dollars US en deux tranches, déjà approuvée, destinée à la société zimbabwéenne de transport et de distribution d’électricité [Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company].

M. Haytham Elmaayergi, vice-président exécutif d’Afreximbank, en charge de Global Trade Bank, a souligné que ces facilités soutenaient, directement et indirectement, les entreprises zimbabwéennes orientées vers l’exportation, en facilitant la génération de devises étrangères indispensables et en allégeant la pression sur les réserves de devises, stimulant ainsi la croissance économique du pays. Il a ajouté que les interventions d’Afreximbank en faveur des PME et du financement du commerce s’articulaient autour du financement, des cadres juridiques et réglementaires, de la sensibilisation et du renforcement des capacités, des services et des partenariats stratégiques.

« Cette facilité de financement commercial renouvelable de 150 millions de dollars US profitera à plusieurs secteurs productifs au Zimbabwe, contribuant ainsi à la réalisation de l’ambition de la Vision 2030 du pays : Vers une société prospère et autonome à revenu intermédiaire supérieur d’ici 2030 », a ajouté M. El Maayergi.

S’exprimant au sujet de ces accords, la Directrice générale de CBZ Bank, Valeta Mthimkhulu, a réaffirmé que, grâce à cet accord, CBZ était mieux placée pour proposer des solutions de financement qui ouvrent de nouvelles perspectives à l’ensemble de ses clients.

« Des exportateurs aux petites entreprises, nous nous engageons à promouvoir la croissance tout en contribuant aux priorités nationales clés, y compris le développement énergétique », a-t-elle déclaré.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable de la Communication et des évènements (Relations Presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2025, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 48,5 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 8,4 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A par GCR, A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et Baa2 par Moody’s. Moody’s (Baa2) et S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte. 

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com

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President Ramaphosa to deliver SADC Summit Public Lecture

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 14 August 2026, deliver the keynote address at a Public Lecture to be held at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, in Durban.

The Public Lecture forms part of the programme of South Africa’s hosting of the 46th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community.

The Public Lecture is an opportunity for people from different sectors of society to participate in discussions about the regional integration agenda and strengthen public ownership of SADC’s Vision 2050.

Convened under the theme, “Translating SADC Vision 2050 into Action: Pathways Towards Solidarity, Equality and Shared Prosperity,” the Public Lecture will provide a platform for high-level reflection and public dialogue on practical pathways for advancing regional integration, industrialisation, infrastructure development, peace, security and inclusive development in Southern Africa.

The theme emphasises the need to translate SADC Vision 2050 from a long-term aspiration into concrete programmes, investments and measurable outcomes that deliver visible benefits to citizens and communities across Member States.

It also highlights the importance of industrialisation, market integration, human capital development, good governance, institutional effectiveness, and active participation by governments, academia, business, civil society, traditional leaders, women, youth and citizens.

The Public Lecture seeks to deepen public and stakeholder understanding of SADC Vision 2050 and its practical relevance to regional integration, economic transformation, peace, security and inclusive development.

It will also reflect on progress made towards the attainment of the Vision, including achievements, persistent constraints, emerging risks and opportunities requiring accelerated regional action.

Against the backdrop of global uncertainty, climate-related shocks, economic pressures and the need to strengthen regional resilience, the Public Lecture will provide an important opportunity for policymakers, academics, business leaders, regional experts, diplomats, students and members of the public to engage on how SADC can move from aspiration to implementation and deliver tangible improvements in the lives and livelihoods of the people of Southern Africa.

President Ramaphosa’s keynote address will reaffirm South Africa’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and advancing the implementation of SADC Vision 2050 in pursuit of solidarity, equality and shared prosperity.

President Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address as follows:
Date: Friday, 14 August 2026
Time: 10h00 (Media to arrive at 8h00am)
Venue: University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban

Media accreditation: 
Members of the media wishing to cover the event are requested to RSVP on the following link by Tuesday, 04 August 2026:
https://mrs.gcis.gov.za/?q=SADC-Presidential-Public-Lecture

Media accreditation Collection:
Friday, 14 August 2026 at University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus(Sports Centre) 
Media accreditation enquiries: Ms Patience Mtshali: 083 376 9468 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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O Afreximbank conclui um pacote de empréstimos no valor de 190 milhões de dólares americanos para o CBZ Bank do Zimbabwe

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) concluiu linhas de financiamento no valor total de 190 milhões de dólares americanos para o CBZ Bank Limited do Zimbabwe, que se prevê venham a apoiar o crescimento económico do país.

Em três acordos de financiamento distintos, assinados em El Alamein, Egipto, por Haytham Elmaayergi, Vice-Presidente Executivo do Banco de Comércio Global do Afreximbank, e Valeta Mthimkhulu, Directora-Geral do CBZ Bank Limited. Estas linhas de crédito visam reforçar a capacidade do CBZ Bank de disponibilizar produtos de financiamento a empresas em todo o Zimbabwe.

A primeira linha de crédito consiste numa linha de financiamento comercial renovável no valor de 150 milhões de dólares americanos para o CBZ Bank Limited, permitindo-lhe disponibilizar financiamento e apoio através de cartas de crédito a empresas no Zimbabwe, contribuindo para colmatar o défice de financiamento comercial em África.

Uma segunda linha de crédito, no valor de 20 milhões de dólares americanos, destinada ao financiamento de PME em duas tranches, apoiará o CBZ Bank Limited, reforçando a sua capacidade de apoiar as Pequenas e Médias Empresas (PME) envolvidas no comércio e noutras actividades relacionadas com o comércio. Prevê-se que esta linha de crédito reforce a capacidade do CBZ Bank de apoiar as PME através de produtos de financiamento e do reforço de capacidades.

Por fim, as duas instituições assinaram igualmente um acordo para uma linha de crédito de repasse de duas tranches, no valor de 20 milhões de dólares americanos, destinada ao CBZ Bank Limited, com o objectivo de ajudar a reduzir os défices de energia e aumentar a estabilidade do abastecimento de energia no Zimbabwe e na região da SADC, posicionando o CBZ Bank para participar numa linha de crédito sindicada de duas tranches, no valor de 210 milhões de dólares americanos, já aprovada para a Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company.

O Sr. Haytham Elmaayergi, Vice-Presidente Executivo do Banco de Comércio Global do Afreximbank, sublinhou que as linhas de crédito, directa e indirectamente, apoiam as empresas orientadas para a exportação no Zimbabwe, servindo como facilitadoras da geração de divisas estrangeiras tão necessárias e aliviando a pressão sobre as moedas estrangeiras, impulsionando assim o crescimento económico no país.

Acrescentou ainda que as intervenções do Afreximbank no domínio das PME e do financiamento comercial se centram no financiamento, nos quadros jurídicos e regulamentares, na sensibilização e no reforço das capacidades, nos serviços e nas parcerias estratégicas.

“A linha de crédito renovável para financiamento comercial no valor de 150 milhões de dólares americanos irá beneficiar vários sectores produtivos no Zimbabwe, contribuindo para a aspiração da Visão 2030 do país: Rumo a uma sociedade próspera e empoderada de rendimento médio-alto até 2030”, acrescentou o Sr. El Maayergi.

Ao comentar sobre os acordos, a Directora-Geral do CBZ Bank, Valeta Mthimkhulu, reiterou que, através deste acordo, o CBZ está melhor posicionado para oferecer soluções de financiamento que abram oportunidades para os nossos clientes em todos os sectores.

“Desde exportadores a pequenas empresas, estamos empenhados em promover o crescimento, contribuindo para as principais prioridades nacionais, incluindo o desenvolvimento energético”, afirmou.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

Contacto para a Imprensa: 
Vincent Musumba
Gestor de Comunicações e Eventos (Relações com a Imprensa)
Correio Electrónico: press@afreximbank.com

Siga-nos no: 
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Sobre o Afreximbank: 
O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) é uma instituição financeira multilateral pan-africana com mandato para financiar e promover o comércio intra e extra-africano. Há mais de 30 anos que o Banco utiliza estruturas inovadoras para oferecer soluções de financiamento que apoiam a transformação da estrutura do comércio africano, acelerando a industrialização e o comércio intra-regional, impulsionando assim a expansão económica em África. Apoiante firme do Acordo de Comércio Livre Continental Africano (ACLCA), o Afreximbank lançou um Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamento e Liquidação (PAPSS) que foi adoptado pela União Africana (UA) como plataforma de pagamento e liquidação para sustentar a implementação da ZCLCA. Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a UA, o Banco criou um Fundo de Ajustamento de 10 mil milhões de dólares para apoiar os países que participam de forma efectiva na ZCLCA. No final de Dezembro de 2025, o total de activos e passivos contingentes do Afreximbank atingiu mais de 48,5 mil milhões de USD, e os seus fundos próprios totalizaram 8,4 mil milhões de USD. O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), pela GCR (A), pela Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e pela Moody’s (Baa2)  e pela S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto. O Afreximbank evoluiu para uma entidade de grupo que inclui o Banco, a sua subsidiária de fundo de impacto de acções, denominada Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Exportações em África (FEDA), e a sua subsidiária de gestão de seguros, AfrexInsure (em conjunto, “o Grupo”). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto.

Para mais informações, visite: www.Afreximbank.com.

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IEC reiterates call to register to vote

Source: Government of South Africa

IEC reiterates call to register to vote

The Electoral Commission (IEC) has once again urged eligible voters to use the rest of Saturday and Sunday to register, verify, and update their details to ensure they are accurately captured.

“The Electoral Commission reminds eligible voters that they will not have another opportunity for voting station-based registration,” said the Electoral Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, Sy Mamabolo.

Voting stations across the country are open this weekend from 8am to 5pm on both days. The Department of Home Affairs has also extended operating hours at all offices for the final Voter Registration Weekend on 01 and 02 August 2026.

Home Affairs offices will open on Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 5pm to ensure that eligible citizens can access the services they need to register to vote.

Addressing the media in Pretoria on Saturday, Mamabolo said the start of the final voter registration weekend brings the country closer to the conclusion of voting station-based registration ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.

“The Electoral Commission reports that the final voter registration weekend has commenced on a strong footing, with more than 99% of the 23 699 voting stations across the country opening promptly at 8am.

“At 12pm today, the Commission reported that it had already interacted with over 238 000 citizens at voting stations and on the online portal. 

“The recorded transactions were predominantly voters updating their registration details to ensure that they are correctly registered ahead of the Local Government Elections. New registrations accounted for 13.4% or approximately 30 000 of the transactions,” he said.

Mamabolo said the majority of transactions (198 232) were recorded at voting stations across the country, while the Commission’s online data-free voter registration portal recorded 20 078 transactions, providing eligible voters with an additional convenient channel to register or update their details.

“Preliminary figures indicate that the highest volumes of voter transactions are currently being recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (55 759), Eastern Cape (46 889) and Gauteng (41 774); this is consistent with historical patterns and reflects the population densities of the provinces.

“Other provinces, including Limpopo (29 680), Western Cape (19 693), Mpumalanga (17 218), North West (15 610), Free State (13 110), and Northern Cape (6 213), are also recording voter activity as citizens respond positively to the Commission’s call to register and update their details before the conclusion of the voting station-based registration. 

“The Electoral Commission welcomes the encouraging turnout of South Africans who have visited voting stations since the opening this morning. We are equally encouraged by the continued uptake of the online voter registration portal,” Mamabolo said.

Online voter registration

Mamabolo said the online voter registration portal remains active, allowing voters to register and update their details to avoid missing out on this important occasion.

“The portal, registertovote.elections.org.za, will remain open until the election is proclaimed. Nonetheless, the Commission urges citizens to register or update their details now rather than wait until the last minute. This will help to avoid unnecessary congestion on the platform in the days and hours leading up to proclamation,” he said.

Mamabolo explained that registered voters are also encouraged to verify their registration details online, through the IEC App or by contacting the Electoral Commission’s Contact Centre on 0800 11 8000.

“Voters may also check their registration status by sending their identity number via SMS to 32810 at the cost of R1 per SMS,” he said.

Mamabolo said the Commission is profoundly thankful to its electoral staff, Home Affairs officials, political parties, community leaders, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, observer groups, security agencies and all stakeholders whose cooperation and support continue to contribute to the successful delivery of the voter registration process.

The IEC had previously said it would deploy 48 212 trained electoral officials to assist voters with registration, updating their details and verifying their registration information.

The Commission has also adjusted its voting district arrangements following an assessment of voter activity during the first registration weekend, reducing the number of districts from 23 706 to 23 699.

During the first registration weekend on 20 and 21 June, more than three million registration transactions were recorded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Home Affairs to facilitate ID applications, collections this voter registration weekend

Source: Government of South Africa

Home Affairs to facilitate ID applications, collections this voter registration weekend

As the final Electoral Commission’s voter registration weekend gets underway, Home Affairs offices across the country are open for citizens to apply for and collect their IDs this weekend.

“Home Affairs offices nationwide will be open from 8am to 5pm to support voter registration weekend for ID applications and collections only,” the Department of Home Affairs said in a post on social media platform, X.

This is as the Electoral Commission (IEC) has completed its preparations for the final voting station-based registration opportunity, with 23 699 voting stations set to operate across the country from 8am to 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

At a media briefing earlier in the week, the commission said it will deploy 48 212 trained electoral officials to assist voters with registration, updating their details, and verifying their registration information.

The Department of Home Affairs said more than 370000 Smart IDs are waiting to be collected.

Following the final registration weekend, the IEC anticipates that the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs will proclaim the date of the 2026 Local Government Elections.

The voters’ roll would close at midnight on the day the election is proclaimed.

Thereafter, no new registrations or changes to existing voter details will be permitted until after the elections, and the IEC will cease registration drives and deactivate its online registration portal.

South Africa will go to the polls in the Local Government Elections on 4 November. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

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Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Holds Telephone Conversation with Chairman of Hamas Political Bureau

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | July 31, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani and Chairman of the Political Bureau ofآ Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), Dr. Khalil Al Hayya held a telephone conversation on Friday.
at the outset of the call HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs congratulated Dr. Al Hayya on assuming his new responsibilities, expressing his best wishes for success in serving the interests of the brotherly Palestinian people.
His Excellency also welcomed the movement’s decision to accept the roadmap for completing the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, expressing hope that this would contribute to ending the suffering of the brotherly Palestinian people in the Strip and to fulfilling their aspirations for security and stability.
In this context, His Excellency stressed the need for the international community to assume its responsibilities and pressure Israel to fulfill its obligations under the agreement and cease its ongoing violations of the rights of the Palestinian people, thus ensuring the completion of the roadmap and achieving peace and stability in the Gaza Strip. 

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Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Celebrates the 3rd Edition of the West Africa Cultural Day in Brussels

Source: APO

The Group of Ambassadors of West African Countries (GAAO), in collaboration with the Permanent Representation of ECOWAS in Brussels, organized the 3rd Edition of the West Africa Cultural Day on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The celebration spanned three days and featured educational, sports, and cultural activities aimed at promoting regional integration and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of West Africa.

The highlight of the event was a Dialogue on the challenges and prospects of deepening the regional integration process in West Africa, under the theme: “ECOWAS, 51 Years On: What Prospects in the Face of Contemporary Challenges?” Organized by the ECOWAS Permanent Representation in Brussels on Thursday, July 23, 2026, the dialogue brought together representatives of the European Union (EEAS, INTPA, and DG Trade), the OACPS Secretariat, the African Union, the diplomatic corps based in Brussels, international organizations, academia, civil society, and the diaspora for constructive exchanges on the future of regional integration.

The opening ceremony featured a musical interlude by the Welnéré Group (African musicians based in Brussels), followed by welcome remarks from Mr. Amadou BA, Economic Adviser at the ECOWAS Permanent Representation, and an address by H.E. Mr. Philip Bob JUSU, Ambassador of Sierra Leone to Belgium. Messages of solidarity were also delivered by EU representatives, including Ms. Jolita PONS, Head of the “West Africa” Division at the European External Action Service (EEAS), and Mr. Carlo Pettinato, Head of Unit TRADE.C1 Africa and Pacific, Overseas Countries and Territories.

In his remarks, Mr. BA recalled the history of ECOWAS and highlighted its numerous achievements over 51 years, while emphasizing ongoing institutional reforms to strengthen the effectiveness and impact of ECOWAS actions. He also underscored the challenges facing the Community, including security threats and political instability, the effects of climate change on food security, and migration issues affecting youth and women.

EU representatives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting ECOWAS in its efforts to promote peace, stability, economic integration, and regional development.

The program continued with an audiovisual presentation of ECOWAS achievements since its creation, followed by a roundtable moderated by Mr. Viwanou GNASSOUNOU, former Assistant Secretary-General of the OACPS, on topics such as Peace and Security, Democratic Governance

and Politics, Regional Market and Economic Integration, and Regional Coordination and Policy Coherence in West Africa. Dr. Dedou P. HEMOU, Secretary-General of the ECOWAS Parliament, presented current challenges of regional integration and prospects for strengthening cooperation among Member States.

H.E. Mr. Philip Bob JUSU, Ambassador of Sierra Leone, recalled the historic role of ECOMOG in maintaining peace and security in West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone, stressing the need to adapt regional mechanisms to new threats.

On democratic governance, H.E. Mr. Mame Baba Cissé, Ambassador of Senegal to Belgium, emphasized respect for the rule of law and stronger institutions to ensure lasting stability. Dr. Innocent BADASU, Counselor at the Embassy of Ghana, highlighted progress in economic integration while stressing the need to remove barriers to intra-regional trade, improve infrastructure, and enhance competitiveness.

Finally, H.E. Mr. Ousmane Koné, Resident Representative of UEMOA in Brussels, stressed the importance of better coordination among regional organizations to ensure policy coherence and maximize the impact of integration initiatives.

Discussions focused on security challenges, political transitions, financing regional integration, trade, youth, and partnerships with the European Union. Participants unanimously called for a more resilient, united, and people-centered ECOWAS.

The celebration continued on Friday, July 24, with a friendly football match between the Ambassadors’ team and the team of Advisors and local staff of West African Embassies at the Ixelles Stadium in Brussels, fostering conviviality and stronger ties among participants.

The event concluded with a cultural evening hosted at the Embassy of The Gambia in Brussels on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The evening showcased West African cultures through artistic performances, dances, traditional attire, and culinary specialties.

This 3rd Edition of the West Africa Cultural Day recorded strong participation and enhanced ECOWAS visibility, while highlighting the region’s cultural diversity and the values of integration, solidarity, and fraternity that unite the peoples of West Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Banyana Banyana fight back to earn crucial draw against Côte d’Ivoire

Source: Government of South Africa

Banyana Banyana fight back to earn crucial draw against Côte d’Ivoire

Banyana Banyana bounced back from two goals down to secure a crucial 2-2 draw against Côte d’Ivoire in their CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2026) Group B clash at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca on Friday evening.

The stakes were high for the women’s national team after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Tanzania in their opening match on Monday.

The team staged a second-half comeback, with Thembi Kgatlana and Hildah Magaia finding the back of the net to secure a valuable point for Banyana Banyana.

South Africa is drawn in Group B alongside Tanzania, Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso. The top two teams in each group will progress to the quarter-finals. –SAnews.gov.za

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Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Concludes Meeting of Directors-General of National Statistical Institutes by Adopting New Guidelines for Regional Statistical Harmonization

Source: APO – Report:

On July 31, 2026, in Dakar, Senegal, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission concluded the meeting of the Directors General of the National Statistical Institutes (NSIs) of member states. Held from July 27 to 31, 2026, this meeting was part of the implementation of the ECOWAS Statistical Policy, which aims to strengthen the harmonization of national statistical systems in order to produce reliable, comparable, and timely data to inform public policy and support regional integration.

Over the course of five days, the Directors-General of the NSIs, experts from the ECOWAS Commission, and representatives of technical and financial partners assessed the progress made in implementing the Regional Statistical Program (RSP 2023–2027) and the PHASAO and PHASAOC projects. Participants also reviewed several strategic methodological documents designed to strengthen the quality, consistency, and comparability of official statistics produced in member states.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Directors-General approved several regional methodological guides intended to serve as common references for the production of official statistics within the ECOWAS region. These include the Methodological Guide for the Industrial Production Index (IPI), the Methodological Guide for the Business Register (RSE), and the Methodological Guide for Public Debt Statistics. Participants also reviewed the Methodological Guide for the Table of Government Financial Transactions (TOFE-ECOWAS) as well as the guides on Quarterly National Accounts (QNA), for which they made recommendations with a view to their finalization and harmonized implementation.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to review progress on regional statistical modernization projects, challenges related to the transition to the System of National Accounts 2008 (SNA 2008), the development of quarterly national accounts, the strengthening of statistical business registers, and the integration of new technologies and innovative data sources into statistical production.

These results mark an important milestone in the implementation of the ECOWAS Statistical Policy. The validated guidelines will help enhance the quality, comparability, and availability of official statistics needed to monitor Community policies, achieve macroeconomic convergence, and deepen regional integration. As emphasized by Dr. Kaliou Sylla, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture—represented by the Acting Director of Research and Statistics at the ECOWAS Commission, Professor N’Zué Félix Fofana—in his closing remarks, “Data today is a lever for sovereignty, economic transformation, and regional integration,” thereby underscoring the strategic role of statistics in the development of evidence-based public policies and in the realization of ECOWAS’s Vision 2050.

The Directors-General also made several recommendations to the member states and the ECOWAS Commission. These include the gradual adoption of validated methodological guidelines, capacity building for national statistical systems, the adoption of the legal instruments necessary for the implementation of regional standards, support for member states in their transition to the 2008 SNA, and the development of digital solutions and technical cooperation mechanisms to accelerate statistical harmonization in the region.

At the conclusion of the meeting, participants reaffirmed their commitment to translating the adopted recommendations into concrete actions and to continuing to strengthen regional          cooperation in order to equip ECOWAS with a harmonized, modern, and efficient statistical system capable of effectively supporting public policies, monitoring community programs, macroeconomic convergence, and the implementation of ECOWAS Vision 2050.

– on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej and Kenya First Lady, H.E. Mrs. Rachel Ruto, E.G.H., Inspire Kenyan Schoolgirls at Kenya State House During Launch of Educating Linda Program

Source: APO

  • Merck Foundation declared Kenya First Lady as the Ambassador of “More than a Mother” to build healthcare capacity, break infertility stigma, and support girl education.

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany officially launched their Educating Linda program in Kenya in partnership with The First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” at the Kenya State House. The program was chaired by Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, CEO of Merck Foundation, Dr. Rasha Kelej and The First Lady of Kenya, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H..

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign said, “I am very happy to meet my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, and officially launch our Educating Linda program in the country, to support girl education.

As a part of Educating Linda, we are providing annual scholarships to 47 deserving, high performing, yet underprivileged Kenyan schoolgirls, till they finish their education. This will ensure they are not forced to abandon their education due to financial hardship. We truly believe that an educated girl transforms the entire community.”

H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, expressed, “I deeply appreciate all the programs of Merck Foundation including the Educating Linda program, through which we are providing annual scholarships to our 47 deserving schoolgirls to support their education until they graduate. We believe that every girl in Kenya, and across Africa, deserves the opportunity to pursue her dreams. Every barrier that prevents a girl from going to school must be dismantled, and this program is one powerful means of doing exactly that. I am confident these young girls will reach their full potential and go on to inspire many others.”

During the program, the Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, together with the First Lady of Kenya, took the opportunity to meet and encourage the Kenyan schoolgirls who are the beneficiaries of the Educating Linda program, and to hear directly from them and their parents about the impact the scholarships have had on their lives.

The Educating Linda program by Merck Foundation in partnership with African First Ladies, is providing annual scholarships to more than 1,250 schoolgirls across 21 African countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and others. The program also ensures that thousands of schoolgirls across Africa receive essential school supplies, removing further practical obstacles to their education.

“When a girl is educated, entire nation is empowered. Educated girls grow into empowered women, who drive prosperity, strengthen families, and advance nations. That is the vision behind everything we do: Girl Education today for Women Empowerment tomorrow,” said Dr. Kelej.

Merck Foundation together has provided 328 scholarships for Kenyan healthcare providers in 44 critical and underserved specialties; including Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Oncology, Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Gastroenterology, Psychiatry, Neurology, and many more. During the visit, Merck Foundation also conducted their Alumni Summit 2026, to acknowledge and meet their Alumni. Moreover, they also met and recognized the Merck Foundation Awards Winners of 2024 and 2025.

Merck Foundation in partnership with the First Lady of Kenya is also launching children’s storybooks: “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future”, “Sugar Free Jude” and “Mark’s Pressure”. These storybooks address critical social and health issues and will be available in both English and Swahili. Thousands of copies of these storybooks will be distributed to schoolchildren across Kenya.

Merck Foundation and the First Lady of Kenya also annually launch their 8 important awards for best media, film, fashion designs and songs. Together they have also conducted several editions of Merck Foundation Health Media Training Program, enabling Kenyan journalists to be equipped to be the voice of the voiceless and report responsibly and effectively on sensitive subjects including infertility, child marriage, gender-based violence, diabetes, and hypertension.

Details of the Awards:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026:  All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

6. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

7. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

Apply here: https://apo-opa.co/4xcon0k

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to: submit@merck-foundation.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
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Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4g5BScw), X (https://apo-opa.co/4bqlLUd),Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4xco0Ts), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4wxKL4p), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4ySabLy) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3TL8teX).

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