Promotion de l’emploi et de l’entrepreneuriat : La Ministre Awaou BACO au contact des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises (PME) prend le pouls dans l’Alibori et le Borgou

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Dans le cadre de sa tournée de prise de contact avec les structures sous tutelle, la Ministre des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises et de la Promotion de l’Emploi, Madame Awaou BACO, a effectué une mission de terrain dans le septentrion. 

Débutée le mardi 28 juillet 2026, après une séance d’échanges de civilités avec le Préfet du département de l’Alibori, Monsieur Ahmed Bello KY-SAMA, la première étape de cette tournée a permis à l’autorité ministérielle d’échanger directement avec plusieurs responsables de Petites et Moyennes Entreprises (PME), garagistes et éleveurs de lapins à Malanville ainsi que les responsables et apprenant.e.s du centre de formation professionnelle de l’Artisanat de Nikki. Une séance de travail à la mairie de Kandi a permis à la Ministre d’entretenir la jeunesse sur les différentes opportunités que leur offre le Gouvernement. 

Le mercredi 29 juillet 2026, la Ministre a poursuivi sa tournée dans le département du Borgou par une visite de courtoisie au Préfet Abdoul Chakour ASSOUMA NARO, avant une série de descentes sur plusieurs sites. Madame Awaou BACO s’est notamment rendue à l’Hôtel Amaldi Prestige, où elle a rencontré une cinquantaine de jeunes issus des quatre départements du Nord, bénéficiaires du programme AZOLI, actuellement en stage d’apprentissage. Cette immersion lui a permis d’échanger avec les jeunes sur leurs expériences et les perspectives d’insertion professionnelle qu’offre ce dispositif. 

La Ministre a ensuite visité un autre volet du programme AZOLI consacré à la formation de 46 personnes en situation de handicap dans les métiers de la cordonnerie et de la maroquinerie. Elle a salué cette initiative inclusive qui contribue à renforcer l’autonomisation économique des personnes vulnérables à travers l’acquisition de compétences professionnelles. 

Poursuivant son parcours, Madame Awaou BACO s’est rendue au sein de la PME ASAFMA, spécialisée dans la soudure, l’ajustage et la fabrication de machines agroalimentaires. Là, elle a pu apprécier les performances de cette entreprise bénéficiant de l’accompagnement de l’Agence de Développement des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises (ADPME), du Projet d’Appui à l’Entrepreneuriat au Bénin (PAEB) et de la Chambre des Métiers de l’Artisanat (CMA-BÉNIN). 

La délégation ministérielle a également visité l’entreprise artisanale Delika’s Tissage, où la promotrice met en valeur le savoir-faire local à travers le tissage de pagnes traditionnels, la confection de bandes tissées, d’articles personnalisés et d’autres créations artisanales. La Ministre a salué le dynamisme et la créativité de cette entrepreneure qui participe activement à la valorisation du patrimoine artisanal béninois et à la création de richesses. 

À chacune des étapes de cette tournée, Madame Awaou BACO a encouragé les jeunes, les artisans et les promoteurs de PME à tirer pleinement profit des plateformes numériques www.sica.anpe.bj et e-PME, mises en place pour faciliter l’accès aux opportunités d’accompagnement, de financement, de formalisation et d’insertion professionnelle. 

Elle les a également exhortés à faire preuve de détermination, de persévérance et d’engagement dans leurs initiatives entrepreneuriales, tout en réaffirmant la volonté du Gouvernement de poursuivre les réformes et les investissements destinés à favoriser l’épanouissement économique des jeunes et des femmes au Bénin.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République du Bénin.

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Bénin – Infrastructures routières : Le Ministre Georges ALE évalue l’avancement de plusieurs chantiers stratégiques

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Ministre du Cadre de Vie et des Transports, Monsieur Georges ALE, a effectué, le mardi 28 juillet 2026, une visite de terrain sur plusieurs chantiers d’infrastructures routières afin d’apprécier l’état d’avancement des travaux et de s’assurer du respect des exigences techniques, environnementales et des délais contractuels. La tournée a conduit l’autorité ministérielle sur trois sites majeurs, témoins de la dynamique de modernisation des infrastructures engagée par le Gouvernement. 

La première étape a conduit le Ministre au pont de Djonou, dans la commune d’Abomey-Calavi. Sur ce site, les travaux de dragage réalisés sont désormais entièrement achevés. Cette opération a permis de libérer le cours d’eau, garantissant ainsi la préservation de l’ouvrage et un meilleur écoulement des eaux. 

La délégation s’est ensuite rendue sur le chantier de modernisation du tronçon Missessinto-Allada (RNIE2), en cours d’aménagement en 2×2 voies par le groupement SCET Tunisie / BECI BTP. Les responsables des travaux ont présenté les avancées enregistrées ainsi que le chronogramme d’exécution. Tout en saluant le rythme satisfaisant des travaux, le Ministre a insisté sur la nécessité de respecter scrupuleusement les délais contractuels afin de permettre aux usagers de bénéficier rapidement de cette infrastructure stratégique. 

La dernière étape de la visite a concerné le giratoire d’Allada et les bassins de rétention aménagés dans la zone. À cette occasion, une attention particulière a été accordée aux questions d’assainissement et de santé publique. Le Ministre a instruit les équipes techniques à travailler en étroite collaboration avec le Ministère de la Santé afin d’anticiper et de prévenir les risques sanitaires pouvant résulter de la stagnation des eaux pluviales. 

Au terme de la visite, Georges ALE a rappelé la vision qui guide l’action du Gouvernement en matière d’infrastructures : « Nous construisons pour plusieurs générations. Cela implique de prendre en compte la sécurité, la santé publique et la qualité à chaque brique posée ». 

À travers cette tournée de suivi, le Ministre du Cadre de Vie et des Transports réaffirme la volonté du Gouvernement de veiller à la réalisation d’infrastructures modernes, sûres, résilientes et durables, répondant aux attentes des populations et contribuant au développement économique et social du Bénin.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République du Bénin.

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SA reaffirms commitment to migration conference 

Source: Government of South Africa

SA reaffirms commitment to migration conference 

South Africa has reaffirmed its support for the long-standing decision of the African Union to convene a continent-wide conference on migration, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said.

“Following a decision by the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union’s (AU) Executive Council not to discuss migration at the upcoming AU mid-term review meeting, South Africa reaffirms its support for the long-standing decision of the African Union to convene a continent-wide conference on migration,” the department said in a statement on Thursday.

The 25th African Union Assembly held in Johannesburg in 2015 called for an African migration conference to discuss, among others, approaches to accelerate mobility and development within the continent while also addressing the challenges posed by increased irregular migration and developing capacity to manage migration flows within the continent.

“South Africa supports the implementation of this decision and believes that a continent-wide convening on migration should consider migration holistically, including its relationship with peace and stability, economic development, regional integration and democratic governance.

“It should also provide space for Member States to discuss the root causes of anti-migrant sentiment and develop a collective continental approach to preventing violence, discrimination, xenophobia and other forms of intolerance,” it said.

The department added that the need for the dialogue has become increasingly urgent. 

“Migration is a continental phenomenon whose consequences extend beyond the jurisdiction of any single state. The urgency is further underscored by recent research indicating that almost six in 10 Africans aged between 18 and 25 have considered emigrating, primarily in search of better opportunities.

“At the same time, African migration remains predominantly intracontinental, with most African international migrants moving to another country on the continent. Research also points to growing negative attitudes towards migrants across the continent and globally, driven in part by prevailing economic hardship.”

Although Africa has participated in discussions on migration with other regions of the world, the continent has yet to convene a comprehensive forum of its own at which Member States can collectively examine Africa’s migration challenges and opportunities.

Such a conference would provide a platform for African countries to exchange experiences, reflect on best practices, share lessons and develop cooperative responses grounded in the continent’s unique circumstances.

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola said: “Attacks on migrants of African descent, and on migrants generally, are an affront to our democracy and a betrayal of our Constitution’s promise to build a society founded on human dignity, social justice and fundamental human rights. The South African Government is seized with this matter and is coordinating efforts to ensure that those responsible for assault, intimidation, looting, robbery and other criminal acts face the full might of the law.”

The department said a lasting solution to migration pressures cannot be achieved through selective approaches that single out or denigrate individual Member States. 

“It requires honest dialogue about the push and pull factors driving movement in countries of origin, transit and destination as well as the responsibilities that all states must discharge.

“South Africa remains firmly committed to Pan-Africanism and African solidarity. The collective concerns, interests and aspirations of the continent remain at the heart of South Africa’s foreign policy and identity as a democracy.”

This commitment is demonstrated through South Africa’s efforts to advance peace and stability, economic integration, pandemic preparedness and a just response to Africa’s debt burden.

“It is the path South Africa has consistently followed and will continue to tread,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

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Congress of the National Council of Eritrean-Americans Commences

Source: APO

The 8th Congress of the National Council of Eritrean-Americans opened with strength and clear purpose, 28 July, in Dallas, Texas, under the theme “Firm Foundation, Forward in Vision.”

The annual congress that was officially opened by Mr. Yosuf Saiq, head of Organizational Affairs of the PFDJ, is being participated by 450 people from various cities in the United States, PFDJ, National Union of Eritrean Women, YPFDJ, and Hidri organizations.

Mr. Berhane Gebrehiwet, Charge d’Affaires at the Eritrean Embassy, underlined the significance of the congress in strengthening organizational capacity and unity and enhance collective national consciousness and prepare ourselves to effectively face challenges that may encounter.

Noting that diplomatic victory is reflection of internal situation, Mr. Berhane said that the effort and initiative conducted over the past years to expand organization and participation of nationals in national affairs has registered encouraging result. He also called on the participants of the congress to thoroughly review the organizational and political activities that have been so far carried out and design clear action programs.

Underlining that congresses and festivals are important forums in which past activities are reviewed and road maps for better outcome are designed, Mr. Yosuf Saiq called for conducting somber activity assessment and design persuasive future programs.

Mr. Yosuf also provided briefing focusing on the objective situation in the homeland in terms of regional and global development. He also explained on the role and policy that Eritrea is pursuing in the peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea free of external interferences.

At the event reports were presented by all organizations and briefings were provided on the experience and longsighted vision of the EPLF on education in relation with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Revolution School, possession of national narratives and modern information system as well as conflict management and resolution.

The congress is set to continue until 31 July.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Seychelles and India sign landmark agreement for 1,008 affordable homes

Source: APO

A significant milestone in Seychelles’ housing development was marked this morning with the signing of an agreement between the Government of Seychelles and NBCC (India) Limited for the implementation of the first phase of the Île Aurore Housing Development Project, which will deliver 1,008 affordable housing units.

The agreement was signed during a ceremony held at the Office of the Vice President Sebastien Pillay by the Secretary of State for Lands, Housing and Infrastructure, Mr Joseph François, on behalf of the Government of Seychelles, and Mr Pradeep Sharma, Executive Director of NBCC (India) Limited.

The project forms part of the development partnership between Seychelles and India following President Dr Patrick Herminie’s State visit to India in February 2026, during which the Government of India announced a USD 175 million Special Economic Package for Seychelles. As part of that package, USD 75 million has been allocated through the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of India to finance the construction of the affordable housing project and its supporting infrastructure.

Under the agreement, NBCC (India) Limited will provide comprehensive project management and consultancy services for the planning, design, procurement and implementation of the development, including the construction of 1,008 affordable housing units, associated roads and utility infrastructure, and a new sewage treatment plant that will serve Île Aurore and surrounding areas.

The first phase of the project, expected to be completed by 2029, will comprise modern two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments within multi-storey residential buildings, representing the first high-rise affordable housing development of its kind in Seychelles.

The Île Aurore Master Plan is a flagship national development project that will ultimately accommodate at least 1,800 residential units, alongside schools, commercial facilities, recreational spaces, supporting infrastructure and other public amenities, contributing significantly to the Government’s vision of expanding access to quality, affordable housing for Seychellois families.

Today’s agreement marks another important step in strengthening the longstanding partnership between Seychelles and India while advancing Government’s commitment to addressing the country’s housing needs and building sustainable communities for future generations.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Cabinet confirms South Africa’s readiness to host SADC Summit

Source: Government of South Africa

Cabinet confirms South Africa’s readiness to host SADC Summit

Cabinet has expressed confidence in South Africa’s readiness to successfully host the 46th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), scheduled to take place in August.

Briefing media on the outcomes of Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said preparations for the regional summit are on track.

The SADC Summit will be held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 16 to 17 August 2026.

“As part of the SADC Summit build-up activities, South Africa is hosting the 2026 SADC Industrialisation Week from 27 to 31 July 2026… The event brings together policymakers, business leaders, investors, academics, researchers and development finance institutions from across the region and beyond to advance industrial development,” Ntshavheni said on Thursday.

The SADC Industrialisation Week supports the implementation of the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap (2015–2063), which is anchored on three pillars, including industrialisation, competitiveness and regional integration.

This year’s programme places emphasis on developing regional value chains in agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods and critical minerals beneficiation, while also promoting investment in energy, transport, logistics, water and information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure.

Reducing transaction costs within SADC

Cabinet also congratulated the South African Reserve Bank on the expansion of the SADC Real-Time Gross Settlement (SADC-RTGS) system with the inclusion of the Angolan Kwanza as the second settlement currency after the South African Rand.

Operated by the South African Reserve Bank on behalf of participating SADC central banks, the SADC-RTGS system aims to reduce transaction costs for cross border trade within the region by facilitating the utilisation of local currencies.

“The inclusion of the Angolan Kwanza as a settlement currency in the SADC-RTGS system marks a significant milestone in advancing regional economic growth through the reduction of transaction costs,” Ntshavheni said.

This development was announced on Monday by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Governor Lesetja Kganyago and Governor of the Banco Nacional de Angola, Manuel Tiago Dias.

“The Kwanza’s inclusion supports regional payments modernisation efforts and aligns with the Group of Twenty’s (G20) cross-border payment goals of reducing costs, increasing speed and improving efficiency in cross-border transactions,” SARB said in a statement.

The Angolan Kwanza is the second settlement currency to be introduced in the SADC-RTGS system, which has settled transactions exclusively in South African Rand since its inception in 2013.

The system has processed R250.7 billion worth of transactions per month since its introduction.  

It is operated by the SARB, as appointed by the SADC Committee of Central Bank Governors. There are currently 15 countries participating in the SADC-RTGS system. – SAnews.gov.za

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Economic reforms gain traction

Source: Government of South Africa

Economic reforms gain traction

South Africa’s economic reform efforts are gaining traction, supported by increased freight rail cargo volumes, investment in the automotive sector, strengthened manufacturing capacity and a modest upward revision to projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.

“While the upward revision to South Africa’s economic growth forecast remains modest, it reflects growing confidence in the country’s economic recovery efforts despite weaker global growth and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said on Thursday, in Pretoria.

The Minister said Cabinet welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) updated macroeconomic forecast, which revised South Africa’s projected GDP growth upward to 1.1%.

“Cabinet noted that this positive adjustment reflects a stabilising domestic economy that continues to demonstrate resilience,” Ntshavheni said.

The Minister was briefing members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, 29 July 2026.

During the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year, Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) recorded a 4.4% year-on-year performance improvement.

TFR ended the quarter having moved 42.0 million tons, compared with 40.2 million tons in the previous year.

“Notably, TFR achieved this performance despite the introduction of an additional 11-day scheduled maintenance shutdown on the Iron Ore Line. Notwithstanding this, TFR moved a higher volume of tonnage, demonstrating a significant improvement in operational efficiency and throughput,” she said,

Cabinet also welcomed Toyota South Africa Motors’ R10.4 billion investment in its Prospecton plant in eThekwini to produce the ninth-generation Hilux.

Ntshavheni said the investment strengthens the automotive manufacturing sector, supports nearly 27 000 jobs across the supplier network and sustains more than 4 300 direct assembly jobs for the employees working at Toyota’s Prospecton manufacturing plant.

The capital injection comes alongside the Chery Group’s recent acquisition and revitalisation of the former Nissan manufacturing facility in Rosslyn, Gauteng.

Chery Group has announced plans to manufacture the Chery, Jaecoo and Jetour brands at the newly acquired Rosslyn facility.

“Initial production is scheduled to commence in mid-2027, with operational capacity ramping up the following year to achieve an annual output of 15 000 units. 

“The Chery Group’s acquisition secures 692 manufacturing jobs and is projected to create nearly 3 000 direct and indirect opportunities across logistics, engineering, supply chains and support services. These long-term commitments also solidify South Africa’s position as a robust manufacturing and regional export hub,” Ntshavheni said.

Digitalised Trusted Employer Scheme

Cabinet further welcomed the official launch of Phase II of the Trusted Employer Scheme (TES), which is aimed at fast-tracking visa processing for verified employers without compromising national security or immigration controls.

The Minister emphasised that qualifying employers must demonstrate significant domestic investment, prioritise the employment of South African citizens and permanent residents, invest in local skills development and align with priority economic sectors.

The dedicated online application portal for TES Phase II, “Home Affairs @ home”, forms part of government’s broader digital transformation strategy.

“At some point, this digital portal will transition into the country’s full Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) ecosystem. Qualifying employers are invited to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) between 20 July 2026 and 4 September 2026,”  Ntshavheni said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Courtesy Call on Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs ONISHI by His Excellency (H.E.) Mr. Ragui ELETREBY, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Japan

Source: APO

On July 30, for approximately 20 minutes from 3:40 p.m., Mr. ONISHI Yohei, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, received a courtesy call by H.E. Mr. Ragui ELETREBY, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Japan.

  1. Parliamentary Vice-Minister Onishi conveys his congratulation to the National day of the Arab Republic of Egypt on 23 July. Ambassador Eletreby conveyed sympathy of the Egyptian government to those affected by 2026 Kumamoto earthquake.
  2. Parliamentary Vice-Minister Onishi touched upon that Japanese companies which operate in Egypt at the top of the list, increase their interests in the Libyan market, and mentioned the possibility of advancing into Libya as a trilateral cooperation under the collaboration of Japan and Egypt.
  3. In response, Ambassador Eletreby expressed his expectation for Japanese companies to further expand into the Egyptian market in order to build strong business relations which will be benefit for both sides including possibility of trilateral cooperation among Japan, Egypt and Libya.
  4. The two sides confirmed that they would continue to promote bilateral relations at various levels.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

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Kinshasa: United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) rehabilitates the Mont-Amba urban police station

Source: APO

The premises of the Mont-Amba Urban Police Station in Kinshasa have been rehabilitated and equipped. The renovation works, financed by MONUSCO Police (UNPOL) amounting to US$47,000, have, according to the station commander—one of the oldest police stations in the city—completely refurbished a building that had not undergone any renovation since the country’s independence. The objective is to improve the working conditions of Congolese police officers, detention conditions, and the reception of the public.

The Mont-Amba Urban Police Station is located in the municipality of Matete, a densely populated area facing numerous challenges related to urban crime.

“Working conditions were difficult,” acknowledged Senior Commissioner Mohamed Mulumba Kasongo, the station commander.

He described aging and deteriorated facilities that no longer enabled police officers to perform at the level of efficiency that citizens have the right to expect.

For him, this rehabilitation represents “a major milestone in the life of our police station” and will strengthen the operational capacity of the police.

The renovation works included repairing the roofs and roof structure, restoring the ceilings, replacing damaged doors and windows, and improving the detention facilities.

“You have to understand that police officers spend most of their working day here. If they are not working in good conditions, they cannot give their best,” said Senior Commissioner Mulumba.

Supporting police reform

The UNPOL Coordinator for Police Reform and Restructuring shares this view. According to Christiane Sophie Eone, ensuring citizens’ security begins with providing police officers with better working conditions.

The rehabilitation of the Mont-Amba Police Station—like other police infrastructure projects across the country—is an integral part of MONUSCO’s mandate, particularly in supporting state institutions and strengthening the operational capacity of the Congolese National Police.

“The partnership between the Congolese National Police and UNPOL must serve the interests of the citizens,” she emphasized, adding:

“Police reform is also reflected in infrastructure.”

Christiane Sophie Eone stated that the shared objective of the UN mission and the Congolese authorities is to build a more professional and effective police service dedicated to serving the Congolese people.

A few years ago, MONUSCO also rehabilitated the Funa Urban Police Station to enhance its operational capacity and improve the security of its operations.

UNPOL has announced that additional police infrastructure renovation projects are planned for the future.

Better trained and better equipped police officers

For the UN mission, the ultimate goal is to ensure better protection of civilians.

This is also the aspiration of the Congolese National Police. This was reaffirmed by Divisional Commissioner Dieudonné Odimba during the inauguration ceremony held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, for the newly renovated Mont-Amba Urban Police Station.

As Head of the Public Security Directorate of the Congolese National Police, he closely follows the progress of police reform and praised the commitment of “our UNPOL partner.”

The rehabilitation of the Mont-Amba Urban Police Station will directly benefit 102 police officers, who will now work in a more functional environment better suited to fulfilling their public service mission.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

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South Africa remains home to all its citizens

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa remains home to all its citizens

Cabinet has reiterated that all South Africans, regardless of their race or political views, will always have a home in the country.

The remarks come after allegations that white South Africans who chose to resettle in the United States of America (USA) under claims of a “white genocide” in South Africa have allegedly been denied visas.

Briefing media on the outcomes of Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting in Pretoria on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said government remains committed to protecting the rights of all South Africans in line with the Constitution.

“South Africans irrespective of their political views will always have a home in this country without the fear of political persecution and suppression in accordance with the laws of the Republic,” Ntshavheni said.

She said while South Africa continues to face significant socio-economic challenges, these affect all citizens, irrespective of race and gender.

“These challenges must be addressed through a collective (all of South Africa) effort involving government, political parties, labour unions, business, civil society, and individual South Africans. The collective efforts must acknowledge the continued impact of the legacy of Apartheid rule and the need for redress the injustices of the past,” the Minister said.

Cabinet called on South Africans to continue to reject attempts to reverse the gains of democracy through racial mobilisation and instead recommit to the goal of building a united, non-racial, and prosperous South Africa. –SAnews.gov.za 
 

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