Category: MIL-OSI

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AliExpress Launches 11.11 and Black Friday Sale to Deliver Unmatched Deals, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME) Empowerment, and Localized Solutions

Source: APO


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AliExpress (www.AliExpress.com), the global online retail marketplace, has kicked off its highly anticipated 11.11 and Black Friday Sale, combining the platform’s biggest online shopping event with tools that empower consumers and small businesses alike across the African continent.

Running from November 11 to December 3, this year’s 11.11 and Black Friday campaign introduces new wholesale tools alongside incredible discounts, up to 80% off on a wide range of products across AliExpress. Enhanced local payments in nine countries and faster shipping create the ultimate shopping experience, while SME-specific features make it much easier for African entrepreneurs to succeed in cross-border commerce.

“Africa is home to one of the most exciting e-commerce growth stories, with rapidly rising consumer demand and entrepreneurial energy,” said Bonnie Zhao, General Manager at AliExpress Africa. “What makes this 11.11 and Black Friday Sale unique is our ability to cater to every segment of this market—whether they are families shopping for affordable products or small businesses sourcing globally to serve their local communities. Our upgrades in secure payments and sourcing tools ensure the customer experience is seamless.” AliExpress will support African shoppers and wholesalers with tailored features, bridging the gap between global supply chains and one of the world’s most dynamic regional markets.

For Consumers: Affordable Shopping with Local Convenience

The 11.11 and Black Friday Sale brings consumers access to steep discounts across popular categories like consumer electronics, smartphones, home decor, beauty and fashion. With its Bundle Deals and Bulk Saver Hub, AliExpress caters to Africa’s family-oriented, price-conscious shoppers by offering significant cashback rewards and discounts for bulk purchases.

AliExpress solves traditional e-commerce payment challenges through integration with trusted local e-payment platforms, enabling smooth local currency transactions for shoppers in nine African markets, including Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa and Ghana. These solutions eliminate currency conversion complexities, ensuring an easy and inclusive shopping experience for banked and unbanked populations.

Delivery speed has also been optimized in the past year. Consumers in countries like Algeria, South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya can expect orders to be delivered in as little as 10 days on select items, while AliExpress’s Choice service guarantees door-to-door fulfilment within 20 days. To make the sales even more attractive, first-time shoppers can take advantage of free shipping and welcome discounts on participating products, lowering the barrier to experiencing global e-commerce.

For Small Businesses: Empowering Africa’s Entrepreneurs

AliExpress understands that over 50 million SMEs power Africa’s economy, and the 11.11 and Black Friday Sale provides unparalleled support for these businesses. The AliExpress Business platform eliminates minimum order quantities (MOQs), allowing entrepreneurs to experiment with small batches of trending products like electronics, textiles, and automotive accessories, helping to control costs and reduce inventory risks. Additionally, the inclusion of AI tools provides critical data, such as market demand trends, product forecasts, and localized marketing materials, enabling SMEs to grow by customizing inventory and promotions.

With social commerce booming in Africa, the One-Shop interface empowers entrepreneurs by enabling easy sharing of curated product catalogs on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, helping them to reach local customers through community-driven sales channels.

“Entrepreneurs on this continent are not just buying—they are building strong businesses, communities, and futures,” said Zhao. “The tools introduced by AliExpress are designed to help SMEs overcome challenges like fragmented logistics or payment systems while tapping into global opportunities. AliExpress makes global commerce a possibility for even the smallest enterprises.”

AliExpress’s Vision for Africa

AliExpress has taken strategic steps to unlock e-commerce growth opportunities across Africa. Recent government, payment and logistic partnerships reflect AliExpress’s long-term commitment to supporting frameworks for digital trade while investing in infrastructure optimization. As a pioneer in localized e-commerce solutions, the platform continues to innovate with service upgrades and logistics partnerships that streamline services for consumers and businesses alike.

Unlock Unbeatable Deals Starting November 11

Consumers and entrepreneurs can begin shopping the 11.11 and Black Friday Sale from November 11 through the AliExpress app or website (www.AliExpress.com). SMEs can access AliExpress Business features at https://InBusiness.AliExpress.com, including bulk pricing, AI-driven insights, and reseller tools to make this shopping season their most successful yet.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AliExpress.

Media Contact:
Scarlett Zhao
scarlett.zp@alibaba-inc.com

Julia Hutton-Potts
j.hutton-potts@alibaba-inc.com

About AliExpress:
Launched in 2010, AliExpress is a business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce platform that allows consumers to buy directly from manufacturers and distributors in China and around the world. In addition to the English version, the AliExpress platform is also available in 15 other languages. AliExpress is part of the Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group.

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SA advances with first locally manufactured oral cholera vaccine trials

Source: Government of South Africa

Biovac has received approval from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) to begin clinical trials for its oral cholera vaccine.

This is a significant development that could position South Africa as the only country in Africa to manufacture this life-saving vaccine entirely in-house.

Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi described the start of clinical trials for the country’s first fully manufactured cholera vaccine as a historic milestone, not just for Biovac and South Africa, but for the entire continent.

“The ability to manufacture a life-saving vaccine from start to finish right here at home strengthens our national capacity to respond swiftly to potential outbreaks and enhances Africa’s self-reliance in vaccine production. This milestone aligns with the government’s vision of ensuring health security and universal access to essential medicines,” said Motsoaledi.

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, said government is committed to promoting local manufacturing, facilitating technology transfer, and commercialising scientific discoveries. 

These efforts are essential not only for public health but also for job creation, skills development, and industrial growth.

“Not only for the benefit of South Africa, but for Africa,” said Gina. 

Motsoaledi and Gina addressed the launch of South Africa’s first locally manufactured vaccine in over 50 years. The event took place at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto, Johannesburg, on Tuesday.

The Ministers said the number of cholera outbreaks has been growing in Africa, coinciding with repeated shortages of cholera vaccines, leaving exposed communities vulnerable to unnecessary disease and deaths. 

Cholera, a preventable disease, can be fatal during outbreaks if treatments, such as oral rehydration therapy, antibiotics and vaccines to curb the spread, are unavailable. 

The Biovac vaccine development project receives support from the Gates Foundation, Open Philanthropy, the Wellcome Trust in the United Kingdom, and the ELMA Vaccines and Immunisation Foundation, among others.

The African Union (AU) has set a target for 60% of all routine vaccines used in Africa to be manufactured on the continent by 2030, a major advancement from today’s level of less than 1%. 

Phase 1 of Biovac’s oral cholera vaccine clinical trial was initiated at the University of the Witwatersrand’s Perinatal HIV Research Unit (Wits’ PHRU), a renowned and established clinical trial site, in October 2025.

The first phase will focus on testing safety in adults, before proceeding to a further Phase 3 of the clinical trial, assessing the immunogenicity, which indicates that the vaccine can prevent cholera through antibodies developed in patients who receive the vaccine.  

The Phase 3 trial will be conducted at five sites, two in Johannesburg, two in Durban, and one in East London. 

Coordinated by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), this clinical trial also highlights South Africa’s ability to conduct trials for multiple types of products.  

If the vaccine is considered safe in the initial trial phase, a larger Phase 3 study will compare the Biovac oral cholera vaccine with Euvichol Plus, a cholera vaccine produced by EuBiologics.

Euvichol Plus is one of several oral cholera vaccines that are currently prequalified by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Depending on the trial outcomes, the vaccine could be approved and ready for use in Africa in 2028 and globally by 2028/29.    

CEO of Biovac, Dr Morena Makhoana, said the organisation is proud to be manufacturing this vaccine entirely in South Africa.

“If the trials are successful, South Africa will become the first country on the continent to produce a cholera vaccine. This development addresses a critical, life-saving need, given the ongoing global shortages of the vaccine amid recurring cholera outbreaks,” said Makhoana. 

Biovac is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cape Town, established in 2003 as a result of a collaboration between the government and private sector aimed at revitalising local vaccine production capabilities.

SAMRC Chief Scientific Officer and Distinguished Professor at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Wits University, Professor Glenda Gray, said: “We are honoured to lead the clinical trials for the oral cholera vaccine, a historical landmark for our country and a vital step in strengthening our country’s ability to respond to infectious diseases.” 

She said they were committed to ensuring that these trials are conducted in full compliance with good clinical practice guidelines, with the highest regard for the safety, care, and protection of all participants. – SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa moves to strengthen beekeeping sector

Source: Government of South Africa

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening South Africa’s beekeeping industry, describing honeybees as “the farmers of the sky” whose silent labour underpins food security, rural livelihoods, and biodiversity. 

Speaking at the Beekeeping Awareness Field Day, held at Oude Raapkraal in Westlake, Cape Town, Steenhuisen said the role of bees in agriculture goes far beyond honey production. 

“They do not use tractors or ploughs, yet their work ensures that nearly 75% of our food crops bear fruit. In South Africa, bee pollination contributes more than R10 billion every year to agriculture,” Steenhuisen said. 

Bees and food security 

The Minister emphasised that beekeeping is a vital contributor to the country’s agricultural sector for contribution to food security, income generation and economic development. 

“Beekeeping contributes directly and indirectly to job creation in South Africa – from the beekeepers to the farmworkers involved in pollination-dependent crops,” he said. 

Bees, recognised under the Animal Improvement Act (Act No. 62 of 1998) as agricultural animals, play a key role in several of the department’s strategic outcomes, including increased production, improved food and nutrition security, enhanced biosecurity, and greater market access. 

Steenhuisen warned that habitat loss, drought, and pesticide misuse threaten bee populations. “When the land stops flowering, bees go hungry, colonies weaken, and honey yields decline.” 

Imagine if every farm, school, and roadside in South Africa became a bee garden – filled with indigenous plants, fruit trees, and wildflowers,” Steenhuisen said. 

He also urged the responsible use of pesticides, noting that spraying at the wrong time, during bloom, can kill thousands of bees overnight. 

The department, he said, is strengthening integrated pest management, encouraging farmers and beekeepers to communicate, spray responsibly, and use less toxic options. 

Building the honey value chain 

Beyond pollination, the Minister highlighted honey’s growing economic importance. South Africa produces up to 2 500 tons of honey annually but consumes nearly double that amount, relying heavily on imports, primarily from China.

 “We rely heavily on the imports of natural honey, with more than 80% of our imported honey coming from China. We also import from Zambia, India, Poland and Yemen. Since there is such a high demand for this product, we have seen an increase of very poor quality and sometimes adulterated honey,” Steenhuisen said. 

To address this, he said the Department of Agriculture’s Inspection Services will again conduct an operation in December to remove mislabelled or counterfeit honey products from store shelves. 

“These operations are part of our efforts to ensure that citizens get the quality goods they intended to purchase. By investing in our local beekeepers, honey processors, and cooperatives, we can grow this sector into a thriving value chain that supports rural jobs, exports, and food authenticity.” 

Strengthening research and biosecurity 

The Minister noted progress on strategic areas to support the bee industry for sustainability, and these include development of a National Beekeeping/Apiculture Strategy for South Africa; development of an AFB (American foulbrood) Management and Response Strategy; Bee Forage Strategy; finalisation of the Residue Monitoring Plan for honey export to the EU; establishment of the Honey Value Chain Round-Table Forum; and resuscitation of the biliteral engagement platform between the department and bee industry (SABIO) lab accreditation in South Africa for the testing of honey for disease and chemical residues. 

He confirmed that the department has commissioned the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) to conduct research on bees: “Survey of AFB in honeybee colonies in South Africa protecting beekeeping and pollination services.” 

The research also intends for the development of a consolidated National Beekeeping Strategy for South Africa, as well as an AFB Management Strategy. 

“Our task is clear – to protect these pollinators, nurture our beekeepers, and grow South Africa’s honey industry into a model of sustainability and pride. Together, we can make sure that the hum of the honeybee continues to be the sound of life, abundance, and hope for generations to come.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister of State at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meets Lebanese Deputy Prime Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 11, 2025

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi met on Tuesday with HE Deputy Prime Minister of the sisterly Republic of Lebanon Dr. Tarek Mitri, who is visiting the country.

During the meeting, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and develop them, in addition to the developments in Lebanon as well as other topics of mutual interest.

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar’s supportive stance towards Lebanon and its continued solidarity with the brotherly Lebanese people.

Director-General of Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) Fahad Hamad Al Sulaiti attended the meeting.

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Qatar Condemns Attacks in Islamabad and Wana, Pakistan

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 11, 2025

The State of Qatar strongly condemns and denounces the attacks taking place in Islamabad, the capital of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and in the city of Wana, South Waziristan, which result in deaths and injuries.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirms Qatar’s firm stance rejecting all forms of violence, terrorism, and criminal acts, regardless of their motives or justifications.

The Ministry expresses the State of Qatar’s sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Pakistan, and wishes a swift recovery to the injured.

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Premier champions ethical leadership, accountability in building a safer KZN

Source: Government of South Africa

Premier champions ethical leadership, accountability in building a safer KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, in his capacity as the Executive Authority of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, has underscored ethical leadership, accountability, and integrity as the pillars of effective governance and community safety.

Ntuli was addressing a strategic planning session, currently underway in Richards Bay.

The two-day strategic planning session, held from 10 to 11 November 2025, brought together senior management, key stakeholders, and strategic partners to review the department’s performance and develop a comprehensive roadmap to combat crime and enhance safety across the province.

Ethical leadership and accountability

A key highlight of the planning session was a presentation on Ethical Leadership in the Public Sector, aimed at reinstilling a culture of integrity, accountability, and selfless service among departmental officials.

The presentation underscored the importance of adhering to established policies and governance frameworks to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Ntuli reaffirmed that ethical leadership remains a cornerstone of public trust and a prerequisite for effective governance.

“A professional and ethical public service is the foundation of public confidence. When leaders serve with integrity, communities respond with trust and cooperation,” Ntuli said.

The Premier urged all departmental officials to align their conduct with the highest standards of integrity, noting that ethical governance is essential for achieving lasting peace, stability, and development in KwaZulu-Natal.

Strengthening strategy and alignment 

The strategic session focused on establishing clear objectives, measurable targets, and practical interventions to address persistent crime challenges facing the province.

Participants also worked to align KwaZulu-Natal’s crime prevention strategies with national and provincial priorities, ensuring that the department’s work directly contributes to South Africa’s broader developmental and safety agenda.

“Our mission is to build safer communities through integrated, intelligence-driven, and community-led interventions. We must ensure that our policies are not only visionary but actionable, measurable, and sustainable,” the Premier said.

Premier Ntuli called on stakeholders to embrace anticipatory thinking — an approach that focuses on identifying potential crime trends, understanding causal factors, and developing innovative, evidence-based responses before challenges escalate.

He also emphasised the need for stronger interdepartmental and policy partnerships, calling for continuous collaboration between law enforcement agencies, municipalities, and community safety structures.

Diagnostic review and turnaround strategy

Acting Head of Department, Nokuthula Khanyile, presented analysis of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, identifying operational challenges and proposing a turnaround strategy that prioritises synergy between the strategic and operational levels of the department.

Her presentation highlighted the need for improved coordination, data-driven decision-making, and proactive community engagement to improve safety outcomes and service delivery across the province.

Over the two days, officials presented analyses of crime trends, discussed innovative prevention measures, and contributed to a renewed roadmap for safety and governance.

The session reaffirmed the department’s unwavering commitment to ethical governance, strategic foresight, and collaborative action as the foundation for a safer KwaZulu-Natal.

“Our vision is clear — a KwaZulu-Natal where every citizen feels safe, protected, and empowered. This requires dedication, partnership, and a shared commitment to act,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK

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Traffic disruptions expected as Gauteng launches joint operations ahead of G20 Summit

Source: Government of South Africa

Traffic disruptions expected as Gauteng launches joint operations ahead of G20 Summit

Gauteng motorists are advised to brace for temporary road closures and intermittent traffic disruptions in parts of Johannesburg this weekend, as law enforcement agencies step up joint operations ahead of the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit. 

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) will conduct a coordinated operation on Saturday, 15 November 2025, between 09h00 and 13h00.

According to the RTMC, the exercise forms part of heightened security and traffic management measures in preparation for the high-profile international gathering, which will see an increased movement of motorcades and official delegations across the province.

Affected areas and routes

The operation will focus on the City of Johannesburg, targeting high-security corridors and major highways. Roads expected to be affected include:

Major National and Regional Routes:

  • N1
  • M1
  • N12

Key Arterial and Urban Roads:

  • 5th Street, Maude Street, Daisy Street
  • Rivonia Road
  • Grayston Drive, Katherine Street
  • Whiteley Road
  • Melrose Boulevard
  • Athol Oaklands Road
  • Oxford Road
  • Glenhove Road
  • Jan Smuts Avenue, Winnie Mandela Drive, Hendrick Potgieter Road
  • Rand Show Road
  • Nasrec Road
  • Golden Highway (Nasrec)

Alternative routes

Motorists are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time, and use alternative routes where possible. 

  • Roodepoort area: Use Beyers Naudé Drive, Christiaan De Wet Road, or Ontdekkers Road instead of Hendrick Potgieter Road.
  • Fourways: Use Main Road, Cedar Road, or Witkoppen Road.
  • Sandton/Rosebank/Parktown: Use Corlett Drive, Sandton Drive, or 11th Avenue as alternatives to Jan Smuts, Oxford, and Rivonia Roads.
  • Southern Johannesburg (Riverlea, Nasrec, Ormonde View): Use Chris Hani Road, Main Reef Road, Crownwood Road (Fordsburg–Crown Mines), Soweto Highway, N17, Aerodrome Road, and Adcock Ingram Road.

Authorities have assured the public that clear signage, visible traffic officers, and real-time updates will be provided to assist motorists throughout the operation. Access for emergency and essential services will remain prioritised at all times.

“These measures are essential to enhance public safety, enforce traffic compliance, and support ongoing traffic law enforcement initiatives, including vehicle inspections and congestion management,” the RTMC said. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM

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Marriott Bonvoy Research: South Africans Plan More Holidays in 2026 with Artificial Intelligence (AI), Lux-Scaping and Passion Pursuits on the Rise

Source: APO

  • Research among over 2,000 South African travellers reveals that nearly seven in 10 plan to take more or the same holidays in 2026
  • The use of AI to plan and research holidays has now gone mainstream, and 59% would trust it to book holiday accommodation
  • Lux-scaping – travellers booking a luxurious stay, like a spa or luxury hotel, at the start or end of their holidays – identified as a key travel trend for 2026 alongside passion pursuits

Nearly seven in ten South African travellers (69%) plan to take the same or more holidays in 2026 compared to 2025, including 49% who intend to travel more frequently, according to Marriott Bonvoy’s Ticket to Travel research (www.Marriott.com). Younger generations are leading demand, with 66% of Gen Z planning on taking more holidays next year and embracing AI planning tools, luxury add-ons, and passion-driven trips.

The research, conducted among more than 22,000 adults across 11 key travel markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa—including over 2,000 South Africans—reveals that South Africans are planning an average of six holidays in 2026. This includes two domestic breaks, two short-haul trips (four hours or less), and two long-haul getaways.

Among those planning holidays, the top travel destinations are South Africa (25%), England (10%), Mauritius (10%), USA (9%), Mozambique (9%), France (7%), Botswana (7%), Zanzibar (7%) and Italy (6%).

AI Goes Mainstream in Travel Planning

Artificial intelligence has become a key tool for South Africans planning their next getaway. Nearly half (49%) of travellers have used AI to plan or research a holiday, with 15% using it all the time. Younger travellers are leading adoption—66% of Gen Z and 53% of Millennials have used AI for trip planning, compared to 27% of Gen X and 22% of Baby Boomers.

Confidence is also growing: 59% say they would feel comfortable booking accommodation through AI platforms such as ChatGPT, rising to 67% among Gen Z. Only 12% say the idea makes them uncomfortable.

‘Lux-Scaping’ Emerges as a Defining 2026 Travel Trend

‘Lux-scaping’—booking a luxurious stay such as a spa retreat or five-star hotel at the start or end of a holiday—has emerged as a defining 2026 trend. Two-thirds (64%) of South Africans have lux-scaped before, surpassing the EMEA average of 59%. The trend is especially popular among younger generations, with 74% of Gen Z and 67% of Millennials embracing the approach.

Travellers cite the top benefits of lux-scaping as helping them relax and get into the holiday mindset (49%), return home refreshed (46%), give themselves a treat (41%) and enjoy a level of luxury they might not afford for a full trip (33%).

When asked what experiences and services they expect from a 5-star escape, luxury travellers in South African prioritise curated activities such as adventure excursions, wine tastings or private chef experiences (41%), followed by exclusive access to beaches and pools (36%) and all-inclusive stays (34%).

Passion Pursuits Take Centre Stage

Another major trend shaping 2026 travel is the rise of ‘passion pursuits’—holidays built around personal interests such as music, sport, or adventure. Over seven in ten (73%) South Africans have taken a passion-led holiday, higher than the EMEA average (68%), and one in five (19%) do so several times a year.

This trend is especially strong among Gen Z (84%) and Millennials (76%), who are using travel to deepen their engagement with the things they love. The most popular passion pursuits are travelling to see or participate in a music or cultural event (58%), watching or playing a sport (56%), and adventurous explorations like a safari or trek (39%).

Together Time Tops Travel Priorities

When choosing accommodation, the ‘brilliant basics’ remain top priorities: cleanliness (96%), customer service (95%), and price (93%) lead the list. South Africans are strongly family-orientated, preferring to travel with family or children (44%) rather than with partners (35%) or friends (12%) while only seven percent prefer to travel alone.

‘Spending time with family and friends’ (53%) remains the top travel priority, followed by ‘great food and drink options (48%), treating themselves (40%), and time in nature (40%).

Smart Spending, Savvy Travellers

South Africans remain financially savvy, finding ways to make their money go further. Price is a key driver, with 51% saying they’ll book a holiday if a special price is available – the highest across the EMEA region.

Travellers are also making smart use of loyalty programmes to maximise value: 42% say hotel loyalty programmes influence where they stay (compared to 32% across EMEA), while 27% would go ahead and book, if they could earn loyalty points.

South Africans are equally focused on maximising experiences once travelling. ‘Country hopping’ – visiting multiple countries on one trip – is on the rise, with 45% saying they will ‘probably’ or ‘definitely’ do this next year, increasing to 52% among Gen Z.

Sustainability Continues to Shape Decisions

South Africans continue to place sustainability at the heart of their holiday choices. Three-quarters (76%) of South African travellers have looked into the environmental impact of their holidays, while 59% checked the sustainability credentials of their accommodation before booking — the highest proportion across EMEA.

“South African travellers are entering a new era of exploration — planning their holidays with sustainability in mind, while being more selective about how they spend and who they travel with,” said Dorcas Dlamini Mbele, Senior Director, Commercial – Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriott International.

“Younger generations are especially enthusiastic, taking more trips and embracing new ways of planning — from using AI to building multi-country itineraries. At the same time, holidays are increasingly centred on what matters most, whether that’s spending time with friends and family, enjoying great food, pursuing their passions through music, sport or adventure, or adding a touch of luxury to a getaway. The clear message is one of optimism, with travel continuing to be a top priority across South Africa.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..

Notes to Editors:
*Research conducted by Mortar Research amongst 2,045 adults in South Africa between 14th-21st July 2025, as part of wider research among 22,266 adults in the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, France, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Poland, Türkiye, South Africa, and Egypt. There is a minimum of 2,000 respondents per market.    

When referencing the Generations, please see below the age groups that are referenced:

  • Generation Z: 18 to 28 year-olds
  • Millennials: 29 to 44 year-olds
  • Generation X: 45 – 60 year-olds
  • Baby Boomers: 61 – 79 year-olds
  • Silent Generation: 80 – 97 year-olds

For more information, please contact:
Birgit Deibele
Senior Director of Communications for Sub-Saharan Africa
Marriott International
Email: Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com

Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/47OllUV
X: https://apo-opa.co/4nOXx9G
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4nRxkqZ
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/3XrkBAg

About Marriott Bonvoy®:
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of more than 30 extraordinary hotel brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com. To download the Marriott Bonvoy app, go here (https://apo-opa.co/4nKdzkZ). 

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Call for Entries Issued for the 2026 Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards

Source: APO

The Stevie® Awards (https://www.StevieAwards.com), organizer of the world’s premier business awards programs, has issued a call for entries for the 2026 (seventh annual) Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, sponsored by the RAK Chamber of Commerce & Industry (http://www.RAKChamber.ae/). Entry kits and complete details on the competition are available at https://MENA.StevieAwards.com.

The Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards are the region’s only awards program to recognize innovation in the workplace in all its forms. The awards are open to all organizations within 18 nations in the MENA region: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Türkiye, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

All individuals and organizations – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small – may submit any number of nominations to any number of the categories.

There are no entry fees in this awards program. Organizations may submit as many nominations as they would like, without cost. Instead, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners can choose to pay a “winners fee” for each successful nomination to maintain their Stevie winner status.

Nominations may be submitted online through two entry deadlines. Winning nominations submitted through the first deadline, 3 December 2025, will have reduced winners’ fees. 21 January 2026, is the second and final entry deadline.

Winners of the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Awards in the competition will be announced on 16 April 2026, and celebrated during a gala event at the InterContinental Hotel in Istanbul, Türkiye, on 14 May 2026.

New for the 2026 Competition

The 2026 competition introduces several new and expanded category groups, including AI Innovation Awards (https://apo-opa.co/3JQW8RP) recognizing the achievements of individuals and organizations in Artificial Intelligence, and Public Sector Innovators (https://apo-opa.co/3LwT2mC), , honoring innovation and excellence in government and public service. Other category groups with new award categories include Sustainability, Technology, Customer Service, Marketing, and Human Resources.

Nominations citing innovative achievements will be accepted and judged in both Arabic and English, in more than 150 categories across the following category groups:

• AI Innovation (https://apo-opa.co/3JQW8RP)
• Apps & Websites (https://apo-opa.co/4oKt4dS)
• Achievements (https://apo-opa.co/497sWQV)
• Annual Reports & Other Publications (https://apo-opa.co/4hSzGo1)
• Company/Organization (https://apo-opa.co/49ecmPw)
• Corporate Communications & Public Relations (https://apo-opa.co/3LC9WQI)
• Customer Service (https://apo-opa.co/47PNScG)
• Human Resources (https://apo-opa.co/4oCh2Dw)
• Individual Professionals (https://apo-opa.co/49IaP4b)
• Live & Virtual Events (https://apo-opa.co/43WFUNT)
• Management (https://apo-opa.co/3Lw7Z8t)
• Marketing (https://apo-opa.co/4owmwPX)
• New Products & Services (https://apo-opa.co/4oKt4uo)
• Public Sector Innovators (https://apo-opa.co/3LwT2mC)
• Social Media (https://apo-opa.co/4hXgCVM)
• Sustainability (https://apo-opa.co/43ner7Z)
• Technology (https://apo-opa.co/49KWCU4)
• Videos (https://apo-opa.co/3JMPZGr)
• Thought Leadership (https://apo-opa.co/4hT50CY)

New Website and Entry System

For the 2026 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards program, a new website and entry system have been introduced to make participation easier and more efficient than ever before. Entrants can now use a single account to access the entry system for all nine Stevie Awards programs, submit and manage nominations seamlessly, and enter directly from any device. The platform supports over 30 languages with automatic translation for judging and offers multiple convenient payment options, ensuring a smooth and accessible experience for participants across the region.

Winners of the 2025 edition with multiple Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Awards include Abdulla Almazrouei Advocates & Legal Consultants, Abu Dhabi Customs, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), ADNOC Logistics & Services, Alef Education, Barns (Saudi Arabia), DAMAC Properties, Deloitte & Touche (M.E.), DHL Express (across multiple MENA locations), Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, Emirates Health Services, Etihad Aviation Group, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Ministry of Finance (Saudi Arabia), Ooredoo Group (Qatar), Petromin Express (Saudi Arabia), Public Works Authority – Ashghal (Qatar), QNB Türkiye, RAK Police, Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu, Saudi Aramco, Sharjah Economic Development Department, Silal (Abu Dhabi), STC (Saudi Telecom Company), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Turkcell, VUMI Global, Yalla Group (UAE), and ZIGMA8 | 360º Creative Communications, among others.

The 2026 competition will be judged by more than 150 professionals around the world. Those who wish to apply to participate on one of the juries may do so at https://apo-opa.co/445vdsn

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards.

Contact:
May Hassan
May@StevieAwards.com

About the Stevie® Awards:
Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, and the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 nominations each year from organizations in more than 70 nations and territories. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at https://www.StevieAwards.com.

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Ouverture des candidatures pour les Stevie® Awards 2026 du Moyen-Orient et d’Afrique du Nord

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Les Stevie® Awards (https://www.StevieAwards.com), organisateurs des programmes de récompenses d’entreprise les plus prestigieux au monde, ont lancé l’appel à candidatures pour l’édition 2026 (septième édition annuelle) des Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, parrainés par la Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de RAK (http://www.RAKChamber.ae/). Les dossiers de candidature et l’ensemble des détails de la compétition sont disponibles sur https://MENA.StevieAwards.com.

Les Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards constituent le seul programme de récompenses de la région à reconnaître l’innovation en entreprise sous toutes ses formes. Le concours est ouvert à toutes les organisations de 18 pays de la région MENA : Algérie, Arabie saoudite, Bahreïn, Égypte, Émirats arabes unis, Irak, Iran, Jordanie, Koweït, Liban, Maroc, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Syrie, Tunisie, Türkiye et Yémen.

Tous les individus et organisations, publics et privés, à but lucratif et non lucratif, grandes et petites entreprises, peuvent soumettre autant de candidatures qu’ils le souhaitent dans n’importe quelle catégorie.

Ce programme de récompenses ne comporte aucun frais d’inscription. Les organisations peuvent soumettre autant de candidatures qu’elles le désirent, sans frais. En revanche, les lauréats des Stevie Awards Or, Argent et Bronze peuvent choisir de payer des « frais de gagnant » pour chaque candidature retenue afin de maintenir leur statut de lauréat Stevie.

Les candidatures peuvent être soumises en ligne selon deux dates limites. Les candidatures gagnantes déposées avant la première échéance, le 3 décembre 2025, bénéficieront de frais de gagnant réduits. La seconde et dernière date limite est fixée au 21 janvier 2026.

Les lauréats des Stevie Awards Or, Argent et Bronze de la compétition seront annoncés le 16 avril 2026 et célébrés lors d’une soirée de gala à l’hôtel InterContinental d’Istanbul, en Türkiye, le 14 mai 2026.

Nouveautés de l’édition 2026

L’édition 2026 introduit plusieurs nouveaux groupes de catégories élargis, notamment les AI Innovation Awards (https://apo-opa.co/3JQW8RP) récompensant les réalisations d’individus et d’organisations en intelligence artificielle, ainsi que les Public Sector Innovators (https://apo-opa.co/3LwT2mC), honorant l’innovation et l’excellence dans les services gouvernementaux et publics. D’autres groupes de catégories comportent de nouvelles distinctions, notamment dans les domaines de la durabilité, de la technologie, du service client, du marketing et des ressources humaines.

Les candidatures mettant en avant des réalisations innovantes seront acceptées et jugées en arabe et en anglais, dans plus de 150 catégories réparties dans les groupes suivants :

• Innovation en IA (https://apo-opa.co/3JQW8RP)

• Applications et sites web (https://apo-opa.co/47OAea1)

• Réalisations (https://apo-opa.co/497sWQV)

• Rapports annuels et autres publications (https://apo-opa.co/4hSzGo1)

• Entreprise/Organisation (https://apo-opa.co/49ecmPw)

• Communications d’entreprise et relations publiques (https://apo-opa.co/3LC9WQI)

• Service client (https://apo-opa.co/47PNScG)

• Ressources humaines (https://apo-opa.co/4oCh2Dw)

• Professionnels individuels (https://apo-opa.co/49IaP4b)

• Événements en présentiel et virtuels (https://apo-opa.co/43WFUNT)

• Management (https://apo-opa.co/3Lw7Z8t)

• Marketing (https://apo-opa.co/4owmwPX)

• Nouveaux produits et services (https://apo-opa.co/4oKt4uo)

• Innovateurs du secteur public (https://apo-opa.co/3LwT2mC)

• Médias sociaux (https://apo-opa.co/4hXgCVM)

• Durabilité (https://apo-opa.co/43ner7Z)

• Technologie (https://apo-opa.co/49KWCU4)

• Vidéos (https://apo-opa.co/3JMPZGr)

• Leadership d’opinion (https://apo-opa.co/4hT50CY)

Nouveau site web et système d’inscription

Pour l’édition 2026 des Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, un nouveau site web et un nouveau système d’inscription ont été introduits afin de faciliter et d’optimiser la participation. Les candidats peuvent désormais utiliser un compte unique pour accéder au système d’inscription des neuf programmes Stevie Awards, soumettre et gérer leurs candidatures en toute fluidité, et s’inscrire directement depuis n’importe quel appareil. La plateforme prend en charge plus de 30 langues avec traduction automatique pour l’évaluation et offre plusieurs options de paiement pratiques, garantissant une expérience fluide et accessible aux participants de toute la région.

Parmi les lauréats de l’édition 2025 ayant remporté de multiples Stevie Awards Or, Argent et Bronze, on compte notamment Abdulla Almazrouei Advocates & Legal Consultants, Abu Dhabi Customs, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), ADNOC Logistics & Services, Alef Education, Barns (Arabie saoudite), DAMAC Properties, Deloitte & Touche (M.E.), DHL Express (dans plusieurs sites MENA), Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, Emirates Health Services, Etihad Aviation Group, First Abu Dhabi Bank, le ministère des Finances (Arabie saoudite), Ooredoo Group (Qatar), Petromin Express (Arabie saoudite), Public Works Authority – Ashghal (Qatar), QNB Türkiye, RAK Police, Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu, Saudi Aramco, Sharjah Economic Development Department, Silal (Abu Dhabi), STC (Saudi Telecom Company), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Turkcell, VUMI Global, Yalla Group (EAU) et ZIGMA8 | 360º Creative Communications, entre autres.

L’édition 2026 sera évaluée par plus de 150 professionnels du monde entier. Les personnes souhaitant postuler pour participer à l’un des jurys peuvent le faire sur https://apo-opa.co/445vdsn.

Distribué par APO Group pour Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards.

Contact:
May Hassan
May@StevieAwards.com

À propos des Stevie® Awards :
Les Stevie Awards sont décernés dans le cadre de neuf programmes : les Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, les German Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, les Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, les Stevie Awards for Women in Business, les Stevie Awards for Great Employers, les Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service et les Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence. Les compétitions Stevie Awards reçoivent chaque année plus de 12 000 candidatures provenant d’organisations de plus de 70 pays et territoires. En honorant des organisations de tous types et de toutes tailles ainsi que les personnes qui les composent, les Stevie récompensent l’excellence professionnelle à travers le monde. Pour en savoir plus sur les Stevie Awards, consultez https://www.StevieAwards.com.

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