Category: MIL-OSI

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Stats SA Vote 14 2026/2027 Budget Debate Speech by Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni MP

Source: President of South Africa –

Honourable House Chairperson,

Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Honourable Theliswa Mgweba

Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Honourable Nonceba Mhlauli

Honourable Members of the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation

The Statistician General Mr. Risenga Maluleke and his team

Members of the South African Statistics Council under the leadership Dr NompumeleloNzimande-Mbele

Thirty years ago, Census 1996 was a first in the history of South Africa to count every person, in every community, in every language, as an equal citizen of a free South Africa. That act of counting was an act of recognition. Today, as we present Budget Vote 14, we honour that founding legacy not by looking back, but by reflecting the contribution of the data ecosystem to the development of South Africa.

It is with honour that I present Budget Vote 14: Statistics South Africa for the financial year 2026/2027 and the medium-term expenditure framework period, as we continue the work of the 7th Administration.

The MTEF allocation is R2.98 billion in 2026/27; and R3.09 billion and R3.20 billion in the 2027/28 and 2028/29 financial years respectively, which is an average growth rate of 3,9%. I must upfront indicate that this allocation is not enough.

The main divisions of Vote 14 are:

MTEF allocation 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Administration 842,3 853,4 891,5
Economic Statistics 315,1 332,9 347,9
Population and Social Statistics 304,0 317,5 304,2
Methodology and Statistical Infrastructure 171,2 178,8 186,9
Statistical Support and Informatics 343,2 358,7 374,7
Statistical Operations and Provincial Coordination 961,6 1 005,5 1 046,8
South African National Statistics System 46,1 47,5 49,7
Total expenditure estimates 2 983,5 3 094,2 201,6

Supporting this Budget Vote is an investment in our ability to govern effectively in a rapidly changing world. As climate shocks intensify, technology accelerates, and global uncertainty grows, timely and credible statistics are no longer optional, they are essential to informed decision‑making and national resilience.

We therefore request Parliament to support the budget vote 14 of Statistics South Africa to enable informed decision-making as we work towards the goals of the National Development Plan.

Therefore, the products of Stats SA are not just for their own sake, but they serve as a guide and lodestar for our nation’s development.

Fellow South Africans

With four (4) years before 2030, government remains committed to the pursuit of the objectives of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) of 1994, which was consolidated into a national vision 2030 in the National Development Plan (NDP). Vision 2030 is implemented through five (5) year-cycles which are administration-linked Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) – previously called MTSF. The 2024-2029 MTDP prioritises an inclusive economic growth that creates jobs, the reduction of poverty and addressing the high cost of living. Poverty reduction and its elimination has been a priority for successive administration, and Stats SA through its surveys measure the progress government is making in achieving these objectives.

In December 2025, Statistics South Africa released the Poverty Trends in South Africa -An examination of absolute poverty between 2006 and 2023. This report presents poverty levels and trends based on data collected by Stats SA through the Income and Expenditure Survey and Living Conditions Survey, which are collectively referred to as household expenditure surveys. Household Expenditure Surveys are the best source of data for the measurement of money-metric poverty and inequality. And thus, provide critical understanding of the household economy of a country. Stats SA conducts two (2) Household Expenditure Surveys as part of its household survey programme – which are the Income and Expenditure Survey and the Living Condition Survey. It is important that the Portfolio Committee of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation to support increased budget allocation of Stats SA to enable frequent data collection for these surveys – unlike the current periodic data collection.

The poverty trends report by Stats SA indicate significant improvement in poverty reduction. For example, the percentage of the population that is considered Lower Bound Poverty Line (LBPL) decrease from 57.5% in 2006 to 37.9% in 2023, number of LBPL poor in millions similarly decreased from 27.3 million in 2006 to 23.2 million in 2023. Furthermore, percentage of the population living in extreme poverty (below the Food Poverty Line) also decreased from 27.4% in 2006 to 17.6% in 2023 – translating to 10.8 million people living in extreme poverty or food poverty line – equalling 2.2 million fewer people living in food poverty line in 2023 compared to 2006.

Honourable members,

Despite the significant progress in decreasing the poverty headcount, 10.8 million people below the food poverty line is 10.8 million people too many towards towards the goal of total elimination of poverty even when we accepted the negative impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the fight against poverty. Government will continue, in line with one of the primary purposes of national poverty lines measurement to use these outcomes to improve the country’s ability to target developmental policies and programmes for interventions.

Stats SA in the 2003 – 2026 Poverty Report asserts that education remains one of the most potent tools for fighting poverty as those with lower education levels recorded notably higher poverty headcounts compared to those with higher levels of education. It is for this reason that the implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act is non-negotiable. There is also a need to support the Minister of Higher Education on the continuing work to review the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) including measures to expand access to higher education for the dependents of police officers, teachers, nurses and other public servants who often fall outside existing support thresholds despite facing significant financial pressures. The aim is to build a more inclusive and sustainable student funding system that broadens opportunity while safeguarding the future viability of the scheme. Government is committed to address the missing middle phenomenon.

Yesterday, Stats SA released Quarter 1 Quarterly Labour Force Survey for 2026 that indicated a decrease in employment by 345 000 to 16.8 million in the first quarter compared to 17.1 million in the previous quarter. The argument of an increase in unemployment due to first quarter trends of increased labour market entrants does not hold as the country experienced a decline in the number of employed persons.

This decline in employment opportunities takes place in a period when investment in infrastructure development is gaining traction. The Minister of Finance announced one trillion Rands (R1 trillion) allocation for infrastructure development during the 2026 National Budget and the 6th edition of the South African Investment Conference raised more than R1.5 trillion worth of investment commitments.

This decline is reported when the country is experiencing an increase in anti-foreign nationals’ sentiments, which in addition to accusing foreign nationals of taking part in criminal activities, the major complaint is the accusation that foreign nationals are taking opportunities that must be reserved for South Africans. Stats SA in the Migration Module of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey reported that the unemployment rate for foreign born persons as of 2022 was 18,2% and that of local born persons was 34%. The unemployment rate of foreign-born persons is almost half compared to that of locally born persons. The absorption rate of foreign-born persons was 64% and that of locally born persons was 37,7%, meaning that foreign born persons were twice as likely to be employed in South Africa than locally born persons. The absorption rate is the proportion of those in working age (15-64 years) who are employed.

With only 55,190 refugees and 82,410 asylum seekers as at 31 December 2025, the BMA and Home Affairs are actively attending to the presence of undocumented foreign nationals. Cabinet has directed the Department of Employment and Labour to intensify inspections of workplaces to ensure compliance with employment laws across vulnerable sectors such as hospitality, farms, trucking, and construction amongst others. Cabinet further directed municipalities to ensure the enforcement of municipal by-laws, with priority on trading by-laws. South Africans must also play their part by refraining from sub-leasing their business licenses.

On a policy level, the Revised White Paper on Immigration addresses constraints with current immigration laws, by introducing provisions of first country of safety principle, moving refugee reception centres nearest to the border, and clause to enable relevant Departments to designate certain trades, professions, and businesses only for South Africans and refugees. To address the argument that South Africans lack vocational skills, the Department of Higher Education is seized with work to reposition TVET colleges to become the most preferred institutions of higher learning whilst evaluating the dual education model.

Unemployment is a contributor to inequality. In this regard, Stats SA uses Gini coefficient as one of the well-known measures of inequality. The Gini ranges from 0 to 1, where zero indicates perfect equality and one indicates perform inequality. According to Stats SA, progress in reducing the Gini by population group showed a mixed results – while the Gini estimates for black Africans and coloureds declines between 2011 and 2023, the estimates for Indians/ Asians and whites increased over the same period. On the income level, the bottom 40% of income earners have seen their income share increase from 4.4% in 2006 to 6.8% in 2023. Stats SA has pointed out that despite the increasing share of income going to the bottom 40% over recent years, the bulk of income is still concentrated with those at the top of the income ladder.

It is however pleasing to report the rising remuneration among black South Africans that is changing the racial makeup of the country’s band of middle- and top-income earners over the course of three decades of democratic rule. The proportion of black households that made more than R75 000 a month in 2024 climbed to 41% from 29% in 2012 according to the StatsSA general household survey. Accordingly, the number of black South Africans in the middle- and upper-income brackets defined as those earning more than R22 000 a month — quadrupled to more than 7 million in 2024 from 2012. Overall, the total number of people in those income groups rose from about 4 million to more than 11 million, over the period (2012 – 2024).

Honourable members,

During this budget speech, I have demonstrated how the statistics are being used to direct government policy interventions and programmes.

The Work Programme of Statistics South Africa remain anchored in the Medium-Term Development Plan. Statistics South Africa’s 2026/27 Work Programme reflects our firm commitment to delivering the trusted, relevant statistics the country needs to plan effectively, govern responsibly, and build a better South Africa for all.

In a world shaped by rapid change, complex challenges, and competing narratives, official statistics remain our strongest defence against uncertainty and misinformation. They provide a single, trusted foundation: the truth, told objectively and transparently through numbers. Official statistics allow a nation to see itself clearly-not only where it stands today, but how it is changing over time.

Official statistics replace speculation with facts and rhetoric with reality. We live in an age of misinformation, where official data must compete with “alternative facts,” speculation, and deliberately manipulated narratives. We call on South Africans to allow facts to guide our national discourse. Let us choose evidence over noise, facts over fiction, and data over doubt.

In an environment of misinformation, the credibility and authority of Statistics South Africa are not luxuries—they are democratic necessities.

This House has a responsibility to protect the role of official statistics. I therefore call on Honourable Members to defend evidence over conjecture, to use official statistics in our debates and decisions, and to help build a culture where truth, transparency, and facts rule.

Honourable Chairperson

I want to take this opportunity to –

Thank the Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation for their oversight work, guidance and support, the Statistician-General, Mr. Risenga Maluleke and his team, and the South African Statistics Council who continue to deliver on the mandate of Stats SA.

Let the numbers speak. Let the evidence guide us. And let us never lose sight of the 62 million South Africans whose lives depend on what we do with it.

Ngiya thokoza.

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The Hon. Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, Deputy Minister in The Presidency 2026/2027 Budget Vote Debate Speech on the occasion of Stats SA Budget Vote Debate

Source: President of South Africa –

Honourable Chair of the session,
Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Ntshavheni 
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Morolong
Honourable Chairperson and Members of the Portfolio Committee
Honorable Members
Distinguished Guests
Fellow South Africans;

This year marks two significant milestones in our democratic journey: 30 years of our Constitution and 30 years since South Africa conducted its first democratic Census in 1996.

Both were foundational acts of nation-building.

The Constitution gave us a democratic framework rooted in human dignity, equality and freedom. The Census gave us, for the first time, a complete and inclusive picture of all the people of South Africa. Together, they affirmed a simple but powerful principle: every person counts, and every person matters.

Over the past three decades, under the leadership of the African National Congress, we have consolidated our democracy and built strong institutions that serve the public interest. Statistics South Africa is one of those institutions.

Stats-SA has become a trusted national asset. Its work allows us to measure progress, identify challenges and plan with confidence. It helps government direct resources where they are needed most, and ensures that our decisions are guided by facts rather than assumptions. 

As we look to the future, the importance of credible and independent statistics will only grow. In a complex and rapidly changing world, South Africa needs reliable data to drive inclusive growth, create jobs, reduce poverty and build a capable state.

It is therefore my honour to support the Minister in the Presidency in presenting the Budget Vote of Statistics South Africa.

Honourable Members,

Just yesterday, Stats-SA released the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) which is one of its key products measuring the employment and unemployment rate of our country. While we would have previously recorded four consecutive economic growth numbers in the past year, yesterday’s numbers indicate that much more needs to be done to ensure faster and more inclusive economic growth to improve the lives of all South Africans.

That is why the role of Stats SA is indispensable.

By producing accurate, objective and timely statistics, Stats SA provides the evidence base needed for sound policymaking and democratic accountability. From inflation and economic growth to poverty, employment and population trends, the organisation supplies information that is used daily by government, business, labour and ordinary citizens.

The credibility of this work depends on the institutional independence of Statistics South Africa.

This independence is protected by the Statistics Act and remains non-negotiable. Official statistics must be free from political or external interference. South Africans must have complete confidence that the numbers released by Stats SA are impartial, professional and trustworthy.

Honourable Members,

The South African Statistics Council plays an important role in safeguarding this credibility.

As a statutory advisory body established under the Statistics Act, the Council provides independent oversight and advice to both the Minister and the Statistician-General. It promotes the quality, relevance and integrity of official statistics.

We are pleased that the Council has endorsed the Work Programme of Stats SA for the 2026/27 financial year.

At the same time, the Council has raised concerns about financial pressures facing the organisation. These challenges must be addressed to ensure that the quality and sustainability of our national statistics are not compromised.

Honourable Chairperson,

The 2026/27 financial year marks the second year of implementing Stats SA’s strategic plan.

The organisation will focus on five priorities: 

Priority One: Sustaining and Protecting the Quality of National Indicators – 

The demand for reliable statistics continues to grow. Yet fiscal constraints make it increasingly difficult to expand statistical operations at the pace required.

Despite these challenges, Stats SA remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and methodological rigour.

During this financial year, the organisation will publish 299 statistical products covering the economy, society, population and environment.

These include key indicators such as the Consumer Price Index and Gross Domestic Product, which are essential for economic planning and business confidence.

Stats SA will also continue to publish data on poverty, inequality, employment and living conditions. These statistics are vital in guiding government interventions aimed at overcoming the legacy of apartheid and improving the lives of the poor, especially black African women, who remain disproportionately affected by poverty and unemployment.

Priority Two Focuses on Driving Legislative and Statistical Reform – 

The Statistics Amendment Act, 2024, which came into effect in October 2025, strengthens the authority of the Statistician-General to coordinate the National Statistical System.

This reform will improve collaboration and data sharing across government and with strategic partners, including SARS, the South African Reserve Bank, the Department of Home Affairs and institutions of higher learning.

A more integrated data ecosystem will improve efficiency, reduce duplication and ensure that decision-makers have access to credible and consistent information.

Priority Three: Modernising and innovating the operating model – 

Stats SA is redesigning its household survey programme through the introduction of a continuous population survey.

The organisation is also expanding web-based data collection for business surveys.

These innovations will improve the timeliness, efficiency and responsiveness of official statistics while reducing costs and administrative burden.

Priority Four: Driving digital transformation – 

Digital transformation is essential to building a future-ready statistical office.
Stats SA will continue investing in technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning to modernise data collection, processing and analysis.

These tools will strengthen analytical capability and improve the quality and speed of statistical production.

Priority Five: Investing in skills development – 

No institution can succeed without skilled and motivated people.

Stats SA will continue to build expertise in data science, digital tools, survey methodology and emerging statistical techniques.

This investment in human capital will strengthen institutional resilience and ensure that South Africa remains at the forefront of statistical innovation.

Honourable Members,

As the data landscape evolves, Stats SA is assuming a broader role as a national data steward.

This means guiding the country’s data strategy, setting standards, promoting safe data sharing and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical requirements.

It also means acting as a trusted bridge between data producers, custodians and users.
By fulfilling this stewardship role, Stats SA will help South Africa harness data more effectively while protecting confidentiality and maintaining public trust.

Honourable Chairperson,

We are mindful of the financial pressures facing the organisation.

Modern statistical systems require sustained investment in technology, infrastructure and human capability.

Stats SA is working with National Treasury and exploring alternative funding models to safeguard the quality and continuity of official statistics.

This is not simply a budget matter.

It is an investment in democracy.

When our statistics are credible, our policies are stronger, our institutions are more accountable and our development efforts are more effective.

Thirty years ago, South Africa chose constitutional democracy and committed itself to building a society based on justice, equality and opportunity.

Thirty years ago, through our first democratic Census, we committed ourselves to counting every person and understanding the realities of our nation.

Today, we reaffirm that commitment.

We reaffirm that facts matter.

We reaffirm that institutions matter.

And we reaffirm that every South African counts.

Let us continue to support the Statistician-General, Mr Risenga Maluleke, the dedicated staff of Statistics South Africa, and the South African Statistics Council under the leadership of Dr Nompumelelo Nzimande-Mbele.

Together, we will ensure that South Africa remains guided by evidence, strengthened by democratic institutions and united in our pursuit of inclusive development.

Before I sit down chair, I would like to extend warm greetings to Taxation and Statics students from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology who are present here at the debate, Bandile Nkosi Olwethu Mfobo, Ayabulela Sikrweqe, Boniswa Oreeditse Mpisani and Sibahle Ngqoko. 

I thank you.
 

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CEO da Fundação Merck celebra os 124 vencedores de 32 países pelos seus Prémios de Jornalismo por combater o estigma da infertilidade e apoiar a educação de meninas

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

  • A CEO da Fundação Merck anunciou a abertura de candidaturas para o Prémio de Jornalismo da Fundação Merck 2026, em parceria com as Primeiras-Damas africanas e asiáticas. Inscreva-se já em [link para inscrição]. https://apo-opa.co/4eEHRot

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha, em parceria com as Primeiras-Damas da Africanas, anunciou os vencedores do Prémio de Jornalismo da Fundação Merck 2025 nas categorias “Mais do Que uma Mãe” e “Diabetes e Hipertensão”. Os prémios reconhecem e celebram as contribuições excepcionais de jornalistas que estão conscientizando sobre questões sociais e de saúde críticas em África e noutros Lugares.

A cerimónia de premiação foi realizada virtualmente para homenagear e celebrar as contribuições excepcionais de todos os profissionais de mídia vencedores. Os vencedores foram calorosamente reconhecidos pela Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck e Presidente da campanha “Mais do Que uma Mãe”.

Ao felicitar os vencedores, a Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej (aposentada), CEO da Fundação Merck, cpartilhou: “Estou muito feliz em anunciar e celebrar os 124 vencedores excepcionais de 32 países, juntamente com as minhas queridas irmãs, as Primeiras-Damas da África, que também são as Embaixadoras da ‘Fundação Merck Mais do que uma Mãe’.

Estou orgulhosa da notável participação que testemunhamos em termos de inscrições para os prémios. Parabéns a todos os nossos excelentes vencedores.”

Este ano, a Fundação Merck também reconheceu e premiou talentos emergentes e promissores da mídia na categoria Prémio Jornalista Emergente. Todos os vencedores serão reconhecidos e homenageados pela CEO da Fundação Merck durante uma cerimónia de premiação virtual.

A Dra. Rasha Kelej enfatizou ainda: “Acredito fortemente no poder da mídia e no papel significativo que ela desempenha na formação da nossa sociedade. Como sempre digo, a mídia entra em todos os lares, mesmo sem convite. Portanto, os jornalistas têm a capacidade única de fazer uma diferença significativa através do seu trabalho diário, aumentando a conscientização e impulsionando uma mudança cultural nas suas comunidades.”

O lema do Prémio de Jornalismo “Mais do Que uma Mãe” é conscientizar sobre importantes questões sociais, como: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou acabar com a violência do género. O lema do Prémio de Jornalismo “Diabetes e Hipertensão” é promover um estilo de vida saudável e conscientizar sobre a prevenção, a detecção precoce e o controlo da diabetes e da hipertensão.

O Prémio de Jornalismo da Fundação Merck foi lançado em 2017 e tem sido anunciado anualmente desde então, em parceria com as Primeiras-Damas da África e da Ásia.

Destacando o impacto a longo prazo do programa, a Dra. Rasha acrescentou: “Lançamos o o nosso prémio de jornalismo há nove anos com o objectivo de capacitar jornalistas a destacar importantes questões sociais e de saúde nas suas respectivas comunidades. Tenho orgulho de partilhar que, até o momento, reconhecemos e celebramos mais de 760 vencedores de 52 países.”

A CEO da Fundação Merck também anunciou a abertura de candidaturas para o Prémio de Jornalismo da Fundação Merck 2026.

“Tenho o prazer de convidar a todos a se candidatem no Prémio de Jornalismo da Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” e “Diabetes e Hipertensão” 2026, em parceria com as Primeiras-Damas Africanas e Asiáticas. Aguardo com expectativa mais uma rodada excepcional de inscrições impactantes e inspiradoras este ano”, disse a Dra. Rasha Kelej.

As inscrições podem ser enviadas aqui: https://apo-opa.co/4eEHRot

Prémio de Jornalismo Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2025

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países da África Ocidental, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República da Gâmbia, S. Exa. Sra. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow; a Primeira-Dama da República do Gana, S. Exa. Sra. Lordina Dramani Mahama; a Primeira-Dama da República da Libéria, S. Exa. Sra. Kartumu Yarta Boakai; e a Primeira-Dama da República da Nigéria, S. Exa. Senadora Oluremi Tinubu.

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Alfred Nii Arday Ankrah, The Spectator, Gana (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Mackie Muctarr Jalloh, New Times Daily, Serra Leoa (Segundo Lugar)
  • Alao Abiodun, The Nation Newspaper, Nigéria (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Prince Kwame Tamakloe, Rainbow Radio Online, Gana (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Odimegwu Onwumere, The Nigerian Voice, Nigéria (Segundo Lugar)
  • Dzifa Tetteh Tay, Freelancer, Gana (Segundo Lugar)
  • Nyima Sillah, Voice of Gambia, Gâmbia (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Never Garmah Lomo, News Public Trust, Libéria (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE RÁDIO

  • Hadiza Abdulrahman, Radio Nigeria, Nigéria (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Joyce Kantam Kolamong, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Gana (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Chinasa Ossai, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Nigéria (Segundo Lugar)
  • Olufunke Fayemi, Voice of Nigeria, Nigéria (Segundo Lugar)
  • Ojo Isaac Olufemi, Splash FM, Nigéria (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA MULTIMÍDIA

  • Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun, News Central TV, Nigéria (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Marshall Anthoni Ononye, News Central TV, Nigéria (Segundo Lugar)
  • Grace Hammoah Asare, TV3, Gana (Segundo Lugar)
  • Maltiti Sayida Sadick, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Gana (Terceiro Lugar)

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países da África Austral, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República do Botswana, S. Exa. Sra. Kaone Boko; a Primeira-Dama da República do Malawi, S. Exa. Prof.ª Gertrude Mutharika; a Primeira-Dama da República da Zâmbia, S. Exa. Sra. Mutita Hichilema; e a Primeira-Dama da República do Zimbabwe, S. Exa. Amai Dra. Auxilla Mnangagwa.

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Jessie Ngoma, Times of Zambia, Zâmbia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Gresham Ngwira, Nation, Malawi (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Zipporah Mushala, Zambia Daily Mail, Zâmbia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Caroline Somanje, Nation Publications Limited, Malawi (Segundo Lugar)
  • Lame Lucas, The Midweek Sun, Botswana (Segundo Lugar)
  • Faith Kaunde, Nation Publications Limited, Malawi (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Daisy Peloewetse, The Voice, Botswana (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Brenda Nkosi, Malawi News Agency (MANA), Malawi (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • June Shimuoshili, Unwrap.online, Namíbia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Fugai Lupande, The Herald, Zimbabwe (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Maria David, Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), Namíbia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Nhau Mangirazi, News Day, Zimbabwe (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Patricia Mashiri, ZimNow, Zimbabwe (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE RÁDIO

  • Natasha Nyarai Mhandu, Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation Classic 263 Radio, Zimbabwe (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Charlotte Nambadja, The Namibian Newspaper, Namíbia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Doreen Sonani, Malawi Broadcasting Corporation, Malawi (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Philis Sitenge, FAITH RADIO, Zâmbia (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Yamikani Simutowe, Malawi Broadcasting Corporation, Malawi (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDOR DA CATEGORIA MULTIMÍDIA

  • Keneilwe Pono Patricia Lephoi, YTV, Botswana (Primeiro Lugar)

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países da África Oriental, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República do Quénia, S. Exa. Sra. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H.

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Elizabeth Angira, People Daily, Quénia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Shaban Njia, Nipashe Newspaper, Tanzânia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Angeline Ochieng, Nation Media Group, Quénia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Agutu Rosa, Standard Media Group, Quénia (Terceiro Lugar)  
  • Francisca Emmanuel, Tanzania Standard Newspaper, Tanzânia (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Vitus Audax, The Guardian, Tanzânia (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Francis Dhamira Kajubi, The Guardian, Tanzânia (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Mbabazi Joan, The New Times, Rwanda (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Isabella Maua Chemosit, NewsLine, The Times, Quénia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Irissheel Shanzu, Standard Media Group, Quénia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Julius Maricha, The Citizen, Tanzânia (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE RÁDIO

  • Moraa Obiria, Nation Media Group, Quénia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Namale Hajara Shahista, CBS FM 89.2 Radio, Uganda (Segundo Lugar)
  • Mildrine Sabwami, North Rift Radio, Quénia (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Caren Waraba Sisya, Royal Media Services, Quénia (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA MULTIMÍDIA

  • Walter Mwesigye, NTV, Uganda (Primeiro Lugar)  
  • Eunice Omollo, NTV, Quénia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Omary Hussein, Star TV, Tanzânia (Terceiro Lugar)

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países Africanos de Língua Francesa, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República do Burundi, S. Exa. Sra. Angeline Ndayishimiye; a Primeira-Dama da República Democrática do Congo, S. Exa. Sra. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi; e a Primeira-Dama da República do Senegal, S. Exa. Sra. Marie Khone Faye.

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Nkurunziza Moïse, Le Renouveau du Burundi, Burundi (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Issa Moussa, The Niger Times , Níger (Segundo Lugar)
  • Guillaume Aimée Mete, Le Jour, Camarões (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Mapote Gaye, Infomedia27, Senegal (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Azododassi Mêmèdé Ambroisine, Savoir News, Togo (Segundo Lugar)
  • Iradukunda Odette, Burundian Press Agency, Burundi (Segundo Lugar)
  • Bréhima Traoré, Lettre d’Afrique, Mali (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE RÁDIO

  • Harerimana Theobard, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Boureima Ouedraogo, Radio la Voix du Paysan, Burkina Faso (Segundo Lugar)
  • Moussa Kone, Radio Channel 2, Mali (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA MULTIMÍDIA

  • Matthias Kabuya, Radio Television Debout Kasaï (RTDK), RDC (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Nadège Omoladé SANNY, Société de Radiodiffusion et Télévision du Bénin (SRTB), Benim (Segundo Lugar)
  • Chris Irambona, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (Segundo Lugar)
  • Amadou BELLO, Balafon Media Group, Camarões (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Joseph Murindajambo, Mashariki TV, Burundi (Terceiro Lugar)

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países Africanos de Língua Portuguesa, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República de Cabo Verde, S. Exa. Dra. Débora Katisa Carvalho; e a Primeira-Dama da República de Moçambique, S. Exa. Dra. Gueta Selemane Chapo.

VENCEDORA DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA                                                

  • Sheilla Ribeiro, Expresso das Ilhas, Cabo Verde (Primeiro Lugar)

VENCEDOR DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Quinton Nicuete, Moz24h, Moçambique (Primeiro Lugar)

Prémio de Jornalismo Fundação Merck “Diabetes & Hipertensão” 2025

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países da África Ocidental, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República da Gâmbia, S. Exa. Sra. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow; a Primeira-Dama da República do Gana, S. Exa. Sra. Lordina Dramani Mahama; e a Primeira-Dama da República da Nigéria, S. Exa. Senadora Oluremi Tinubu, CON:

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Annastacia Delali Sika, Daily Graphic, Gana (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Ochiaka Ugwu, People’s Daily, Nigéria (Segundo Lugar)
  • Agnes Opoku Sarpong, Ghanian Times, Gana (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Ojoma Akor, Daily Trust, Nigéria (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Nana Ama Asantewaa Kwarko, Modern Ghana, Gana (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Patience Ivie Ihejirika, Leadership Newspaper, Nigéria (Segundo Lugar)
  • Idowu Abdullahi, Punch Nigéria, Nigéria (Segundo Lugar)
  • Nelson Manneh, Gâmbia Press Union, Gâmbia (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Dr. Fatoumata S Sarjo, The Standard, Gâmbia (Prémio Jornalista Revelação)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE RÁDIO

  • Yecenu J. Sasetu, Montage 99.7FM, Nigéria (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Vanessa Ukamaka Richard Bassey, Sparkling 92.3FM, Nigéria (Segundo Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA MUTIMÍDIA

  • Ezedimbu Karen Ogomegbunem, AIT live, Nigéria (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Sarah Apenkroh, TV3, Gana (Segundo Lugar)
  • Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, Arise News, Nigéria (Terceiro Lugar)

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países da África Austral, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República do Botswana, S. Exa. Sra. Kaone Boko; a Primeira-Dama da República da Zâmbia, S. Exa. Sra. Mutinta Hichilema; e a Primeira-Dama da República do Zimbabwe, S. Exa. Amai Dra. Auxilla Mnangagwa:

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Nancy Kefilwe Ramokhua, The Patriot on Sunday, Botswana (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Taati Niilenge, The Namibian, Namíbia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Melody Mupeta, Zambia Daily Mail, Zâmbia (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Veronica Gwaze, Zimpapers, Zimbabwe (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Pitso Molemane, Kaya FM, África do Sul (Segundo Lugar)
  • Bridget McNulty, Sweet Life Diabetes Community, África do Sul (Prémio Jornalista Revelação)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE RÁDIO

  • Chileshe Kapenda, ZAMCOM Radio, Zâmbia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Sera Tamina, Radio Icengelo, Zâmbia (Segundo Lugar)

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países da África Oriental, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República do Quênia, S. Exa. Sra. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H.

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Abeid Othman, Mwananchi, Tanzânia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Christina Mwakangale, Nipashe, Tanzânia (Segundo Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Lucy John Bosco, Mwananchi, Tanzania (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Phillys Chemtai Kirui, KASS Media Group, Quénia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Melisa Mong’ina, Talk Africa, Quénia (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE RÁDIO

  • Angela Kezengwa, Royal Media Services Ltd, Quénia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Millicent Kubai, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, Quénia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Mwanaisha Makumbuli, Highlands FM Radio, Tanzânia (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORA DA CATEGORIA MUTIMÍDIA

  • Betty Mudondo, NTV, Uganda (Primeiro Lugar)

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países Africanos de Língua Francesa, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República do Burundi, S. Exa. Sra. Angeline Ndayishimiye; e a Primeira-Dama da República Democrática do Congo, S. Exa. Sra. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi:

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Arsène Jonathan Mosseavo, LANOCA, República Centro-Africana (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Astère Nduwamungu, Le Renouveau du Burundi, Burundi (Segundo Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Cassien Tribunal Aungane, Diplomacy and Development, RDC (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Manirakiza Richard, Burundian Press Agency, Burundi (Segundo Lugar)
  • Aka Ahoussi, Credochristi, Cote d’Ivoire (Segundo Lugar)
  • Kouton Emile, Savoir News, Togo (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE RÁDIO

  • Magnus Mfuranzima, Radio Isôko FM, Burundi (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Samuel Niyokwizera, Radio IVYIZIGIRO, Burundi (Segundo Lugar)
  • Josiane Clairia Kankundiye, Indundi Culture Radio, Burundi (Terceiro Lugar)
  • Kabamba Ngalamulume Fabrice, Education Radio and Television, RDC (Prémio Jornalista Revelação)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA MUTIMÍDIA

  • Ornella Muco, Radio Television Isanganiro, Burundi (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Jean Népomuscène Irambona, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (Segundo Lugar)

Apresentamos aqui os vencedores dos Países Africanos de Língua Portuguesa, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República de Cabo Verde, S. Exa. Dra. Débora Katisa Carvalho; e a Primeira-Dama da República de Moçambique, S. Exa. Dra. Gueta Selemane Chapo.

VENCEDOR DA CATEGORIA MUTIMÍDIA

  • Hugo Firmino, STV Notícias, Moçambique (Primeiro Lugar)

Aqui estão os vencedores dos Países Asiáticos:

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Mini P Thomas, The Times of India, Índia (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Vishal Shreshtha, Dainik Jagran, Índia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Parvez Babul, The Daily Observer, Bangladesh (Terceiro Lugar)

VENCEDORES DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Cristina Eloisa Baclig, Inquirer.net, Filipinas (Primeiro Lugar)
  • Puja Awasthi, The Week, Índia (Segundo Lugar)
  • Disha Shetty, Health Watch Policy, Índia (Terceiro Lugar)
  • David Dizon, ABS-CBN, PFilipinas (Terceiro Lugar)

Aqui estão os vencedores dos países da AMÉRICA LATINA:

VENCEDOR DA CATEGORIA DE IMPRENSA

  • Leon Ferrari, O Estado de S.Paulo (Estadão), Brasil (Primeiro Lugar)

VENCEDORA DA CATEGORIA ONLINE

  • Ana Bottallo, Folha de S.Paulo, Brasil (Primeiro Lugar)

A CEO da Fundação Merck também anuncia a abertura das candidaturas para o Prémio de Jornalismo 2026. “Tenho o prazer de anunciar as candidaturas para os Prémios de Jornalismo Fundação Merck 2026 – “Mais do Que uma Mãe” e “Diabetes e Hipertensão”, em parceria com as Primeiras-Damas da África e da Ásia. Estou entusiasmada para ver os trabalhos criativos e excepcionais que receberemos este ano”, declarou a Dra. Rasha Kelej.

Informações sobre o Prémio de Jornalismo da Fundação Merck 2026:

1. Prémio de Jornalismo África Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026

Lema do prémio: Combater o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, promover o empoderamento feminino, acabar com o casamento infantil, erradicar a MGF (Mutilação Genital Feminina) e/ou combater a violência do género em todos os níveis.

Quem pode candidatar-se: Jornalistas de Impressas, de Rádio, Online e Plataformas Multimídia dos seguintes grupos:

Países da África Austral

a) Países da África Ocidental

b) Países da África Oriental

c) Países Africanos de Língua Francesa

d) Países Africanos de Língua Portuguesa

Prazo de entrega: 30 de setembro de 2026.

2. Prémio de Jornalismo Fundação Merck “Diabetes e Hipertensão” 2026

Lema do prémio: Promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Quem pode candidatar-se: Jornalistas de Impressas, de Rádio, Online e Plataformas Multimídia dos seguintes grupos:

Países da África Austral

a) Países da África Ocidental

b) Países da África Oriental

c) Países Africanos de Língua Francesa

d) Países Africanos de Língua Francesa

e) Países da América Latina

f) Países Asiáticos

Prazo de entrega: 30 de outubro de 2026.

Todas as candidaturas devem ser enviadas para submit@merck-foundation.com.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Junte-se à conversa nas plataformas das nossas mídias sociais e deixe a sua voz ser ouvida!
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Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4uQeBA6
Site: www.Merck-Foundation.com​
Baixar a Aplicação da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/4u4iIZb

Sobre a Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha, tem como objectivo melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e aprimorar as suas vidas atravez da ciência e da tecnologia. Os nossos esforços estão focados principalmente na melhoria do acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carenciadas, no desenvolvimento da capacidade de saúde e na investigação científica, no empoderamento das raparigas na educação e no empoderamento de pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática) com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck. Visite www.Merck-Foundation.com para ler mais. Siga a mídia social da Fundação Merck: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4fpu2KK), X (https://apo-opa.co/4dlRmqq), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3RDJs4f), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4dhqiKd), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4uRkvRv) e Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4uQeBA6).

A Fundação Merck está dedicada a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde para comunidades necessitadas. Embora colabore com vários parceiros, incluindo governos, para atingir os seus objectivos humanitários, a Fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Ela não se envolve ou apoia nenhuma actividade política, eleições ou regimes, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e melhorar o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) celebrates 124 Winners from 32 Countries for their Media Awards for Breaking infertility Stigma and Supporting Girl Education

Source: APO

  • Merck Foundation CEO announced call for application of 2026 Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies – apply now at https://apo-opa.co/4eEHRot

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, in partnership with the First Ladies of Africa, announced the winners of the Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025 under the categories “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension.” The awards recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of journalists who are raising awareness about critical social and health issues across Africa and beyond.

The Awards Ceremony was conducted virtually to honour and celebrate the outstanding contributions of all the winning media professionals. The winners were warmly acknowledged by Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the “More Than a Mother” campaign.

Congratulating the winners, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation, shared, “I am very happy to announce and celebrate the 124 outstanding winners from 32 countries, together with my dear sisters, the First Ladies of Africa, who are also the Ambassadors of the ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’.

I am proud of the remarkable participation we have witnessed in form of entries for the awards. Congratulations to each and every one of our outstanding winners.”

This year, Merck Foundation also recognized and awarded emerging and promising media talents under the Emergent Journalist Award category. All the winners will be acknowledged and celebrated by the CEO of Merck Foundation during a virtual award ceremony.

Dr. Rasha Kelej further emphasized, “I strongly believe in the power of media and the significant role it plays in shaping our society. As I always say, media enters every home, even without an invitation. Therefore, journalists have the unique ability to make a meaningful difference through their day-to-day work by raising awareness and driving a cultural shift in their communities.”

The theme of the “More Than a Mother” Media Awards is to raise awareness about important social issues like: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending Female Genital Mutilation and/or Stopping Gender-Based Violence. The theme of the “Diabetes and Hypertension” Media Awards is to Promote a Healthy Lifestyle and Raise Awareness about Prevention, Early detection and Management of Diabetes and Hypertension.

The Merck Foundation Media Awards were first launched in 2017 and have been announced annually since then, in partnership with the First Ladies of Africa and Asia.

Highlighting the long-term impact of the program, Dr. Rasha added, “We launched our Media Awards nine years ago with the aim of empowering journalists to spotlight important health and social issues in their respective communities. I am proud to share that, to date, we have recognized and celebrated more than 760 winners from 52 countries.”

The CEO of Merck Foundation also announced the Call for Applications for the Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026.

“I am pleased to invite entries for the Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension” 2026, in partnership with the African and Asian First Ladies. I look forward to receiving another outstanding round of impactful and inspiring entries this year,” said Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Entries can be submitted here: https://apo-opa.co/4eEHRot

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards 2025

Here are the winners from West African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW; First Lady of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA; The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia, H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI; The First Lady of Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Alfred Nii Arday Ankrah, The Spectator, Ghana (First Position)
  • Mackie Muctarr Jalloh, New Times Daily, Sierra Leone (Second Position)
  • Alao Abiodun, The Nation Newspaper, Nigeria (Third Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Prince Kwame Tamakloe, Rainbow Radio Online, Ghana (First Position)
  • Odimegwu Onwumere, The Nigerian Voice, Nigeria (Second Position)
  • Dzifa Tetteh Tay, Freelancer, Ghana (Second Position)
  • Nyima Sillah, Voice of Gambia, Gambia (Third Position)
  • Never Garmah Lomo, News Public Trust, Liberia (Third Position)

RADIO CATEGORY WINNER

  • Hadiza Abdulrahman, Radio Nigeria, Nigeria (First Position)
  • Joyce Kantam Kolamong, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Ghana (First Position)
  • Chinasa Ossai, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Nigeria (Second Position)
  • Olufunke Fayemi, Voice of Nigeria, Nigeria (Second Position)
  • Ojo Isaac Olufemi, Splash FM, Nigeria (Third Position)

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun, News Central TV, Nigeria (First Position)
  • Marshall Anthoni Ononye, News Central TV, Nigeria (Second Position)
  • Grace Hammoah Asare, TV3, Ghana (Second Position)
  • Maltiti Sayida Sadick, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Ghana (Third Position)

Here are the Winners from Southern African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Botswana, H.E. Mrs. KAONE BOKO; The First Lady of the Republic of Malawi, H.E. Prof. GERTRUDE MUTHARIKA; The First Lady of Republic of Zambia, H.E. Mrs. MUTINTA HICHILEMA; The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Jessie Ngoma, Times of Zambia, Zambia (First Position)
  • Gresham Ngwira, Nation, Malawi (First Position)
  • Zipporah Mushala, Zambia Daily Mail, Zambia (Second Position)
  • Caroline Somanje, Nation Publications Limited, Malawi (Second Position)
  • Lame Lucas, The Midweek Sun, Botswana (Second Position)
  • Faith Kaunde, Nation Publications Limited, Malawi (Third Position)
  • Daisy Peloewetse, The Voice, Botswana (Third Position)
  • Brenda Nkosi, Malawi News Agency (MANA), Malawi (Third Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • June Shimuoshili, Unwrap.online, Namibia (First Position)
  • Fugai Lupande, The Herald, Zimbabwe (First Position)
  • Maria David, Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), Namibia (Second Position)
  • Nhau Mangirazi, News Day, Zimbabwe (Third Position)
  • Patricia Mashiri, ZimNow, Zimbabwe (Third Position)

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Natasha Nyarai Mhandu, Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation Classic 263 Radio, Zimbabwe (First Position)
  • Charlotte Nambadja, The Namibian Newspaper, Namibia (Second Position)
  • Doreen Sonani, Malawi Broadcasting Corporation, Malawi (Third Position)
  • Philis Sitenge, FAITH RADIO, Zambia (Third Position)
  • Yamikani Simutowe, Malawi Broadcasting Corporation, Malawi (Third Position)

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Keneilwe Pono Patricia Lephoi, YTV, Botswana (First Position)

Here are the winners from East African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H.

PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Elizabeth Angira, People Daily, Kenya (First Position)
  • Shaban Njia, Nipashe Newspaper, Tanzania (Second Position)
  • Angeline Ochieng, Nation Media Group, Kenya (Second Position)
  • Agutu Rosa, Standard Media Group, Kenya (Third Position)
  • Francisca Emmanuel, Tanzania Standard Newspaper, Tanzania (Third Position)
  • Vitus Audax, The Guardian, Tanzania (Third Position)
  • Francis Dhamira Kajubi, The Guardian, Tanzania (Third Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Mbabazi Joan, The New Times, Rwanda (First Position)
  • Isabella Maua Chemosit, NewsLine, The Times, Kenya (First Position)
  • Irissheel Shanzu, Standard Media Group, Kenya (Second Position)
  • Julius Maricha, The Citizen, Tanzania (Third Position)

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Moraa Obiria, Nation Media Group, Kenya (First Position)
  • Namale Hajara Shahista, CBS FM 89.2 Radio, Uganda (Second Position)
  • Mildrine Sabwami, North Rift Radio, Kenya (Third Position)
  • Caren Waraba Sisya, Royal Media Services, Kenya (Third Position)

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER

  • Walter Mwesigye, NTV, Uganda (First Position)
  • Eunice Omollo, NTV, Kenya (Second Position)
  • Omary Hussein, Star TV, Tanzania (Third Position)

Here are the winners from African French Speaking Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Burundi, H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE; The First Lady of Democratic Republic of the Congo, H.E. Madam DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI; The First Lady of Republic of Senegal, H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Nkurunziza Moïse, Le Renouveau du Burundi, Burundi (First Position)
  • Issa Moussa, The Niger Times , Niger (Second Position)
  • Guillaume Aimée Mete, Le Jour, Cameroon (Third Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Mapote Gaye, Infomedia27, Senegal (First Position)
  • Azododassi Mêmèdé Ambroisine, Savoir News, Togo (Second Position)
  • Iradukunda Odette, Burundian Press Agency, Burundi (Second Position)
  • Bréhima Traoré, Lettre d’Afrique, Mali (Third Position)

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Harerimana Theobard, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (First Position)
  • Boureima Ouedraogo, Radio la Voix du Paysan, Burkina Faso (Second Position)
  • Moussa Kone, Radio Channel 2, Mali (Third Position)

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Matthias Kabuya, Radio Television Debout Kasaï (RTDK), DRC (First Position)
  • Nadège Omoladé SANNY, Société de Radiodiffusion et Télévision du Bénin (SRTB), Benin (Second Position)
  • Chris Irambona, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (Second Position)
  • Amadou BELLO, Balafon Media Group, Cameroon (Third Position)
  • Joseph Murindajambo, Mashariki TV, Burundi (Third Position)

Here are the winners from African Portuguese Speaking Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde, H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO; and The First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique, H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO

PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS                                                                       

  • Sheilla Ribeiro, Expresso das Ilhas, Cabo Verde (First Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Quinton Nicuete, Moz24h, Mozambique (First Position)

Merck Foundation “Diabetes & Hypertension” Media Recognition Awards 2025

Here are the winners from West African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW; First Lady of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA; and The First Lady of Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Annastacia Delali Sika, Daily Graphic, Ghana (First Position)
  • Ochiaka Ugwu, People’s Daily, Nigeria (Second Position)
  • Agnes Opoku Sarpong, Ghanian Times, Ghana (Third Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Ojoma Akor, Daily Trust, Nigeria (First Position)
  • Nana Ama Asantewaa Kwarko, Modern Ghana, Ghana (First Position)
  • Patience Ivie Ihejirika, Leadership Newspaper, Nigeria (Second Position)
  • Idowu Abdullahi, Punch Nigeria, Nigeria (Second Position)
  • Nelson Manneh, Gambia Press Union, Gambia (Third Position)
  • Dr. Fatoumata S Sarjo, The Standard, Gambia (Emergent Journalist Award)

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Yecenu J. Sasetu, Montage 99.7FM, Nigeria (First Position)
  • Vanessa Ukamaka Richard Bassey, Sparkling 92.3FM, Nigeria (Second Position)

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER

  • Ezedimbu Karen Ogomegbunem, AIT live, Nigeria (First Position)
  • Sarah Apenkroh, TV3, Ghana (Second Position)
  • Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, Arise News, Nigeria (Third Position)

Here are the Winners from Southern African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Botswana, H.E. Mrs. KAONE BOKO; The First Lady of Republic of Zambia, H.E. Mrs. MUTINTA HICHILEMA; The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Nancy Kefilwe Ramokhua, The Patriot on Sunday, Botswana (First Position)
  • Taati Niilenge, The Namibian, Namibia (Second Position)
  • Melody Mupeta, Zambia Daily Mail, Zambia (Third Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Veronica Gwaze, Zimpapers, Zimbabwe (First Position)
  • Pitso Molemane, Kaya FM, South Africa (Second Position)
  • Bridget McNulty, Sweet Life Diabetes Community, South Africa (Emergent Journalist Award)

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Chileshe Kapenda, ZAMCOM Radio, Zambia (First Position)
  • Sera Tamina, Radio Icengelo, Zambia (Second Position)

Here are the winners from East African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H.

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Abeid Othman, Mwananchi, Tanzania (First Position)
  • Christina Mwakangale, Nipashe, Tanzania (Second Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Lucy John Bosco, Mwananchi, Tanzania (First Position)
  • Phillys Chemtai Kirui, KASS Media Group, Kenya (Second Position)
  • Melisa Mong’ina, Talk Africa, Kenya (Third Position)

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Angela Kezengwa, Royal Media Services Ltd, Kenya (First Position)
  • Millicent Kubai, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, Kenya (Second Position)
  • Mwanaisha Makumbuli, Highlands FM Radio, Tanzania (Third Position)

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER

  • Betty Mudondo, NTV, Uganda (First Position)

Here are the winners from African French Speaking Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Burundi, H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE; and The First Lady of Democratic Republic of the Congo, H.E. Madam DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Arsène Jonathan Mosseavo, LANOCA, Central African Republic (First Position)
  • Astère Nduwamungu, Le Renouveau du Burundi, Burundi (Second Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Cassien Tribunal Aungane, Diplomacy and Development, DRC (First Position)
  • Manirakiza Richard, Burundian Press Agency, Burundi (Second Position)
  • Aka Ahoussi, Credochristi, Cote d’Ivoire (Second Position)
  • Kouton Emile, Savoir News, Togo (Third Position)

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Magnus Mfuranzima, Radio Isôko FM, Burundi (First Position)
  • Samuel Niyokwizera, Radio IVYIZIGIRO, Burundi (Second Position)
  • Josiane Clairia Kankundiye, Indundi Culture Radio, Burundi (Third Position)
  • Kabamba Ngalamulume Fabrice, Education Radio and Television, DRC (Emergent Journalist Award)

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER

  • Ornella Muco, Radio Television Isanganiro, Burundi (First Position)
  • Jean Népomuscène Irambona, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (Second Position)

Here are the winners from African Portuguese Speaking Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde, H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO; and The First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique, H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER

  • Hugo Firmino, STV Notícias, Mozambique (First Position)

Here are the winners from ASIAN Countries:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Mini P Thomas, The Times of India, India (First Position)
  • Vishal Shreshtha, Dainik Jagran, India (Second Position)
  • Parvez Babul, The Daily Observer, Bangladesh (Third Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNER

  • Cristina Eloisa Baclig, Inquirer.net, Philippines (First Position)
  • Puja Awasthi, The Week, India (Second Position)
  • Disha Shetty, Health Watch Policy, India (Third Position)
  • David Dizon, ABS-CBN, Philippines (Third Position)

Here are the winners from LATIN AMERICA Countries:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Leon Ferrari, O Estado de S.Paulo (Estadão), Brazil (First Position)

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNER

  • Ana Bottallo, Folha de S.Paulo, Brazil (First Position)

The Merck Foundation CEO also announces Call for Applications for the 2026 Media Awards. “I am pleased to announce entries for the Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 – “More Than a Mother” & “Diabetes and Hypertension”, in partnership with The First Ladies of Africa and Asia. I am excited to see the creative and outstanding entries that we will be receiving this year” stated Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Details of Merck Foundation Media Awards 2026:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition “More Than a Mother” Awards 2026

Theme for the awards: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Who can apply: Journalists from Print, Radio, Online, and Multimedia platforms from the following groups:

  1. Southern African Countries
  2. West African Countries
  3. East African Countries
  4. French Speaking African Countries
  5. Portuguese Speaking African Countries

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

2. Merck Foundation Media Recognition “Diabetes & Hypertension” Awards 2026

Theme for the awards: Promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Who can apply: Journalists from Print, Radio, Online, and Multimedia platforms from the following groups:

  1. Southern African Countries
  2. West African Countries
  3. East African Countries
  4. French Speaking African Countries
  5. Portuguese Speaking African Countries
  6. Latin American Countries
  7. Asian Countries

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

All entries are to be submitted to submit@merck-foundation.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com  

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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com​
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4u4iIZb

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/4fpu2KK), X (https://apo-opa.co/4dlRmqq), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3RDJs4f), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4dhqiKd), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4uRkvRv) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4uQeBA6).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) and Oesterreichische Kontrollbank Aktiengesellschaft (OeKB) Sign Framework Reinsurance Agreement to Strengthen Export Credit and Investment Risk Coverage

Source: APO

The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) (http://ICIEC.IsDB.org), a Shariah-based multilateral insurer and member of the Islamic Development Bank Group, and Oesterreichische Kontrollbank Aktiengesellschaft (OeKB), acting as agent of the Republic of Austria under the Export Guarantees Act, are pleased to announce  the signing of a Framework Reinsurance Agreement designed to expand capacity and enhance risk-sharing for eligible export credit and investment insurance transactions. The agreement was signed during the 2026 Spring Meeting of the Berne Union, hosted by KazakhExport in Astana from 11 to 14 May 2026.

Under the agreement, ICIEC will provide facultative reinsurance on a case-by-case basis for OeKB-supported insurance facilities. The arrangement will help enhance support for Austrian exporters, lenders, and investors undertaking transactions with counterparties in ICIEC Member States, while contributing to the mobilisation of trade, investment, and development-oriented projects across key markets.

The reinsurance arrangement applies to the principal portion of covered credit exposures, with participation levels to be mutually agreed and documented for each transaction. By combining OeKB’s export credit insurance expertise with ICIEC’s multilateral mandate and deep understanding of risks across its Member States, the agreement will help unlock additional capacity for transactions that support economic connectivity, private sector development, and sustainable growth.

Commenting on the signing, Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Chief Executive Officer of ICIEC, said:

“Building on the reinsurance agreement signed between ICIEC and OeKB in 2023, this Framework Reinsurance Agreement marks another important step in deepening our institutional cooperation. It provides a practical platform to expand reinsurance capacity, enhance risk-sharing, and support eligible export credit and investment insurance transactions involving Austria and ICIEC Member States. Through this partnership, ICIEC will continue to help mitigate risks, mobilise trade and investment, and support transactions that contribute to sustainable economic growth and development impact across our Member States.”

Gerhard Kinzelberger, Senior Director, International Relations & Country Analysis, said: “Many member countries of ICIEC are dynamically growing, interesting markets for Austrian export companies. We are therefore very pleased about the conclusion of this reinsurance agreement, with which we can support Austrian exporters in OIC member states even better in their projects and investments”

Through this Framework Reinsurance Agreement, ICIEC and OeKB are establishing a stronger platform for cooperation that can support eligible transactions, expand insurance capacity, and contribute to increased trade and investment flows between Austria and ICIEC Member States. The agreement also underscores the role of reinsurance partnerships in enabling risk mitigation, strengthening market confidence, and supporting sustainable economic development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

Contact:
Email: ICIEC-Communication@isdb.org

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About ICIEC:
As a member of the ‘AAA’ rated Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), ICIEC commenced operations in 1994 to strengthen economic relations between OIC Member States and promote intra-OIC trade and investments by providing risk mitigation tools and financial solutions. The Corporation is the only Islamic multilateral insurer in the world. It has led from the front to deliver a comprehensive suite of solutions to companies and parties in its 51 Member States. ICIEC, for the 18th consecutive year, maintained an “Aa3” insurance financial strength credit rating from Moody’s, ranking the Corporation among the top of the Credit and Political Risk Insurance (CPRI) industry. Additionally, S&P has reaffirmed ICIEC’s “AA-“ long-term Issuer Credit and Financial Strength Rating for the third year with a Stable Outlook.  ICIEC’s resilience is underpinned by its sound underwriting, global reinsurance network, and strong risk management policies. Cumulatively, ICIEC has insured more than USD 139 billion in trade and investment. ICIEC’s activities are directed towards key sectors such as energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare and agriculture.

For more information, visit: http://ICIEC.IsDB.org

About OeKB:
Oesterreichische Kontrollbank AG (OeKB) is Austria‘s central provider of financial and information services to the export industry and the capital market. Its shareholders are commercial banks domiciled in Austria. OeKB is the Austrian Government’s official Export Credit Agency (ECA). In this function OeKB is ready to support Austrian exporters and their international customers. To advance Austrian competitiveness and support companies doing business abroad, OeKB issues export guarantees to cover payment defaults abroad and offers – through commercial banks as partners – attractive financial solutions. https://www.OEKB.at

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President Ramaphosa appoints judges to strengthen judicial capacity

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in terms of section 174(6) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, and on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission, appointed judges to divisions across South Africa to ensure courts have the necessary capacity to administer justice.
 
President Ramaphosa has made the following appointments and wishes the judges well as they assume their responsibilities.
 
(i) Madam Justice Thandi Victoria Norman as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, with effect from 15 May 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(ii) Mr Justice Bashier Vally as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, with effect from 01 June 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(iii) Madam Justice Leonie Windell as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal with effect from 01 June 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(iv) Mr Justice Aubrey Phage Ledwaba as a Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 15 May 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(v) Ms Nolubabalo Cengani-Mbakaza as a Judge of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Mthatha with effect from 01 July 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(vi) Adv Sally Ann Collett as a Judge of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Makhanda with effect from 01 July 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(vii) Professor Nomthandazo Patience Ntlama-Makhanya as a Judge of the Eastern Cape Division of the Court, Makhanda with effect from 01 August 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(viii) Mr Rodges Deon Barendse as a Judge of the Western Cape Division of
the High Court, with effect from 01 June 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(ix) Adv Diane Margaret Davis SC as a Judge of the Western Cape Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 July 2026 in an existing vacancy;

(x) Adv Ncumisa Thoko Mayosi as a Judge of the Western Cape Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 June 2026 in an existing vacancy;
 
(xi) Adv Pinda Njokweni as a Judge of the Western Cape Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 June 2026 in an existing vacancy; and

(xii) Adv Phillipa Susan Van Zyl as a Judge of the Western Cape Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 June 2026 in an existing vacancy.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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President Ramaphosa to address NCOP “Taking Parliament to the People” outreach

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 15 May 2026, address the closing session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Taking Parliament to the People programme in the Matlosana Local Municipality in the North West Province.

The NCOP programme takes place from 12 to 15 May 2026 under the theme, “Celebrating 30 Years of the Constitution: Deepening Participatory Democracy for Service Delivery.”

The outreach focuses on strengthening public participation, oversight and cooperative governance across all three spheres of government.

The National Council of Provinces, as the parliamentary House representing provincial and local interests at national level, plays a critical role in South Africa’s constitutional democracy through oversight of provincial and local government, cooperative governance, and the protection of provincial interests.

Taking Parliament to the People brings democracy closer to communities by creating a direct platform for citizens to raise concerns and contribute to decision-making processes.

The programme features public hearings, site visits to service delivery hotspots, and direct engagements with permanent delegates to the NCOP, Ministers, Members of Provincial Legislatures and councillors.

At Friday’s event, communities in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality and surrounding areas will engage government leaders on key service delivery matters, including local economic development and job creation, infrastructure maintenance, water and sanitation, roads, electricity, human settlements, healthcare, mining, as well as financial management and governance.

The President will address the programme as follows:
Date: Friday, 15 May 2026
Time: 09h00
Venue: Spirit Word House, Old Drive-in Site, Off N12 Highway, Stilfontein, North West Province

Media accreditation enquiries should be directed to Mr Manelisi Ntsodo via whatsApp on 081 716 2021.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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La Société Islamique d’Assurance des Investissements et des Crédits à l’Exportation (SIACE) et Oesterreichische Kontrollbank Aktiengesellschaft (OeKB) signent un Accord-Cadre de Réassurance pour renforcer la couverture des risques liés au crédit à l’exportation et à l’investissement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Société Islamique d’Assurance des Investissements et des Crédits à l’Exportation (SIACE) (http://ICIEC.IsDB.org), assureur multilatéral conforme aux principes de la Charia et membre du Groupe de la Banque Islamique de Développement, et Oesterreichische Kontrollbank Aktiengesellschaft (OeKB), agissant en qualité de mandataire de la République d’Autriche au titre de la Loi sur les garanties à l’exportation, ont le plaisir d’annoncer la signature d’un Accord-Cadre de Réassurance visant à accroître les capacités et à renforcer le partage des risques pour les opérations éligibles d’assurance-crédit à l’exportation et d’assurance-investissement. L’accord a été signé lors de la Réunion de printemps 2026 de l’Union de Berne, organisée par KazakhExport à Astana du 11 au 14 mai 2026.

Dans le cadre de cet accord, la SIACE fournira une réassurance facultative, au cas par cas, pour les facilités d’assurance soutenues par OeKB. Ce dispositif contribuera à renforcer l’appui apporté aux exportateurs, prêteurs et investisseurs autrichiens engagés dans des opérations avec des contreparties situées dans les pays membres de la SIACE, tout en contribuant à la mobilisation de projets axés sur le commerce, l’investissement et le développement dans des marchés clés.

Le dispositif de réassurance s’applique à la part principale des expositions de crédit couvertes, avec des niveaux de participation qui seront convenus mutuellement et documentés pour chaque transaction. En associant l’expertise d’OeKB en matière d’assurance-crédit à l’exportation au mandat multilatéral de la SIACE et à sa connaissance approfondie des risques dans ses pays membres, cet accord contribuera à libérer des capacités supplémentaires pour des transactions favorisant la connectivité économique, le développement du secteur privé et la croissance durable.

Commentant la signature, Dr Khalid Khalafalla, Directeur Général de la SIACE, a déclaré : « S’appuyant sur l’accord de réassurance signé entre la SIACE et OeKB en 2023, cet Accord-Cadre de Réassurance constitue une nouvelle étape importante dans l’approfondissement de notre coopération institutionnelle. Il offre une plateforme pratique pour élargir les capacités de réassurance, renforcer le partage des risques et soutenir les opérations éligibles d’assurance-crédit à l’exportation et d’assurance-investissement impliquant l’Autriche et les pays membres de la SIACE. À travers ce partenariat, la SIACE continuera à contribuer à l’atténuation des risques, à la mobilisation du commerce et de l’investissement, ainsi qu’au soutien de transactions qui favorisent la croissance économique durable et l’impact sur le développement dans l’ensemble de ses pays membres. »

Gerhard Kinzelberger, Directeur principal, Relations internationales et analyse pays, a déclaré : « De nombreux pays membres de la SIACE sont des marchés dynamiques et en pleine croissance, présentant un intérêt significatif pour les entreprises exportatrices autrichiennes. Nous sommes donc très heureux de la conclusion de cet accord de réassurance, qui nous permettra de mieux accompagner les exportateurs autrichiens dans leurs projets et investissements au sein des États membres de l’OCI.»

À travers cet Accord-Cadre de Réassurance, la SIACE et OeKB établissent une plateforme de coopération renforcée capable de soutenir des transactions éligibles, d’accroître les capacités d’assurance et de contribuer à l’augmentation des flux commerciaux et d’investissement entre l’Autriche et les pays membres de la SIACE. L’accord souligne également le rôle des partenariats de réassurance dans l’atténuation des risques, le renforcement de la confiance des marchés et le soutien au développement économique durable.

Distribué par APO Group pour Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

Contact :
E-mail: Rbinhimd@isdb.org

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À propos de la SIACE :
Membre de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), notée « AAA », la SIACE a démarré ses activités en 1994 afin de renforcer les relations économiques entre les pays membres de l’OCI et de promouvoir le commerce ainsi que les investissements intra-OCI en fournissant des outils d’atténuation des risques et des solutions financières. La Société est le seul assureur multilatéral islamique au monde. Elle a joué un rôle de premier plan en proposant une gamme complète de solutions aux entreprises et parties prenantes de ses 51 pays membres. Pour la 18ᵉ année consécutive, la SIACE a conservé sa note de solidité financière « Aa3 » attribuée par Moody’s, la classant parmi les leaders du secteur de l’assurance-crédit et des risques politiques (CPRI). Par ailleurs, S&P a confirmé la note de crédit et de solidité financière à long terme « AA- » de la SIACE pour la troisième année consécutive, avec des perspectives stables. La résilience de la SIACE repose sur une souscription solide, un réseau mondial de réassurance et des politiques rigoureuses de gestion des risques. Au total, la SIACE a assuré plus de 139 milliards de dollars de transactions commerciales et d’investissements. Les activités de la SIACE sont orientées vers des secteurs clés tels que l’énergie, l’industrie manufacturière, les infrastructures, la santé et l’agriculture.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez visiter : http://ICIEC.IsDB.org       

À propos d’OeKB :
Oesterreichische Kontrollbank AG (OeKB) est le principal fournisseur autrichien de services financiers et d’information destinés au secteur de l’exportation et au marché des capitaux. Ses actionnaires sont des banques commerciales domiciliées en Autriche. OeKB est l’agence officielle de crédit à l’exportation du Gouvernement autrichien. À ce titre, OeKB soutient les exportateurs autrichiens et leurs clients internationaux. Afin de renforcer la compétitivité de l’Autriche et d’accompagner les entreprises actives à l’international, OeKB émet des garanties à l’exportation couvrant les défauts de paiement à l’étranger et propose, par l’intermédiaire de banques commerciales partenaires, des solutions de financement attractives. https://www.OEKB.at

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Africa Energy Forum 2026 : Construire l’avenir industrialisé de l’Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

L’Africa Energy Forum revient du 16 au 19 juin 2026, réunissant entreprises, investisseurs et gouvernements qui pilotent la transition de l’Afrique, de l’accès à l’énergie vers des infrastructures à l’échelle industrielle. 

Les entreprises réunies au Cap déploient des capitaux dans les infrastructures de transmission, développent des corridors miniers qui définiront les routes commerciales pour les décennies à venir, financent des capacités de base capables d’alimenter l’industrie lourde et développent des projets renouvelables qui ancreront l’avenir manufacturier de l’Afrique. Le sponsor du forum, Sun Africa, mène un groupe de sponsors dont les projets et investissements façonnent déjà la manière dont le continent construit sa base industrielle. 

« Je me réjouis de participer aux échanges au Cap en juin. Ce qui me passionne dans le sommet de cette année, c’est la qualité des capitaux et l’engagement présents — des entreprises qui financent des capacités de base pour l’industrie lourde, construisent des corridors miniers qui définiront les routes commerciales pour des décennies et déploient des projets renouvelables qui soutiendront l’avenir manufacturier de l’Afrique. C’est ce type de réflexion structurelle et de long terme que Sun Africa a toujours estimé que ce continent mérite, et c’est exactement la conversation que nous devons avoir. » Sun Africa, CEO, Adam Cortese. 

ACWA Power, Infinity Power et AMEA Power développent des capacités renouvelables à l’échelle du gigawatt à travers le continent. Globeleq et TotalEnergies financent et exploitent des projets qui démontrent comment le capital privé peut fournir des infrastructures de qualité industrielle. British International Investment et IFC structurent des opérations combinant financements concessionnels et commerciaux afin de mobiliser la participation des fonds souverains. Nedbank CIB met en place des structures de financement durable permettant aux projets d’atteindre la clôture financière. 

« Alors que l’Afrique passe de l’ambition à l’exécution, le programme de cette année se concentre sur les fondamentaux matériels de l’industrialisation – l’acier, le béton et les lignes de transmission qui définiront l’avenir industriel du continent », a déclaré Simon Gosling, Managing Director de EnergyNet. 

Les entreprises à l’origine de cette transformation font face à des défis communs : structurer des projets bancables là où le risque perçu dépasse la performance réelle, faire passer les minéraux critiques de l’extraction à la transformation, développer des corridors de transmission au service à la fois des mines et des villes, et mobiliser des capitaux patients dans des infrastructures de long terme. 

Le Cap offre le cadre idéal. L’Afrique du Sud explore les investissements privés dans la transmission, le trading d’énergie, le déploiement de renouvelables tiré par l’activité minière, ainsi que les tensions entre croissance industrielle et engagements climatiques – autant de défis auxquels le reste du continent sera confronté. Les réformes de la ville constituent une étude de cas en temps réel. 

Le programme reflète les priorités de ces entreprises. Les minéraux critiques bénéficient d’un programme dédié de deux jours, explorant la transformation en aval, les corridors de transport et la capture de valeur à partir de réserves représentant plus de 30 % de l’offre mondiale. Les sessions examinent le corridor de Lobito, le Liberty Corridor et les infrastructures de Simandou comme modèles de financement de projets à grande échelle. 

Les thématiques liées à la transmission et à la capacité de base abordent l’expansion des réseaux, les structures d’investissement privé et la disponibilité 24h/24 et 7j/7 pour les centres de données et l’industrie manufacturière. Les sessions sur le trading d’énergie analysent comment les sponsors transforment le financement de projets grâce à des contrats d’achat solides, tandis que des discussions technologiques couvriront l’IA pour la protection des revenus, les chaînes d’approvisionnement des centres de données et la conformité au CBAM. 

Plus largement, la structure du forum favorise la conclusion d’accords. Le programme des intervenants comprend des tables rondes à huis clos réunissant des institutions de financement du développement, des fonds souverains, des ministres du Moyen-Orient, des services publics, des régulateurs et le secteur privé pour des discussions franches sur le déploiement du capital. 

L’événement réunira des dirigeants de haut niveau des secteurs public et privé, avec des intervenants notables tels que H.E. Honourable Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity & Energy, South Africa ; H.E. Honourable Samantha Graham-Marè, Deputy Minister of Electricity & Energy, South Africa ; Dan Marokane, GCE, Eskom, South Africa ; H.E. Honourable Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice President, Liberia ; H.E. Honourable Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity & Energy, South Africa ; H.E. Honourable Lerato Mataboge, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy ; Precious Edward, Head, IPP Office, South Africa ; Obaïd Amrane, CEO, Ithmar Capital, Morocco, Chair, Africa Sovereign Investors Forum (ASIF) & Chair, International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds (IFSWF) ; Mike Teke, Group CEO, Seriti Resources ; et Jonathan Hoffman, CEO, Globeleq. 

Des discussions régionales informelles mettront en lumière les opportunités en Afrique du Nord, de l’Est, australe et de l’Ouest. Le premier jour comprendra des sessions ministérielles avec la participation du Ministry of Energy de Sierra Leone et du Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Natural Resources de la Gambie. 

Parmi les sponsors supplémentaires contribuant au programme figurent AKSA en tant que Exhibitor Sponsor, avec le soutien des sponsors principaux Synergy Consulting, ATIDI, Engie, European Investment Bank, Standard Bank, Red Rocket, USP&E Global et Sungrow. 

Le dernier jour, le YES! (Youth Energy Summit) se tiendra dans le cadre du programme aef sous le thème « Empowering Today’s Entrepreneurs – Building Tomorrow’s Industrialists ». Des leaders de l’impact y présenteront des initiatives évolutives créant des opportunités entrepreneuriales dans le secteur énergétique africain, tandis que des partenaires industriels animeront des ateliers interactifs pour développer des compétences pratiques auprès de 600 jeunes participants. 

Distribué par APO Group pour EnergyNet Ltd..

Pour les partenariats, veuillez contacter :
Poliana@EnergyNet.co.uk   

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Africa Energy Forum 2026: Construindo o Futuro Industrializado de África

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Africa Energy Forum regressa de 16 a 19 de junho de 2026, reunindo empresas, investidores e governos que estão a impulsionar a transição de África do acesso à energia para infraestruturas em escala industrial.

As empresas que se reúnem na Cidade do Cabo estão a mobilizar capital para infraestruturas de transmissão, a desenvolver corredores mineiros que irão definir rotas comerciais durante décadas, a financiar capacidade de base capaz de alimentar a indústria pesada e a desenvolver projetos de energias renováveis que irão sustentar o futuro industrial de África. O patrocinador do fórum, Sun Africa, lidera um grupo de patrocinadores cujos projetos e investimentos já estão a moldar a forma como o continente constrói a sua base industrial.

“Estou ansioso por participar nesta conversa na Cidade do Cabo em junho. O que me entusiasma neste Summit é o nível de capital e compromisso presentes — empresas que estão a financiar capacidade de base para a indústria pesada, a construir corredores mineiros que irão definir rotas comerciais durante décadas e a implementar projetos de energias renováveis que irão sustentar o futuro industrial de África. Este é o tipo de pensamento estrutural de longo prazo que a Sun Africa sempre acreditou que este continente merece, e é exatamente a conversa que precisamos de ter.” Sun Africa, CEO, Adam Cortese.

ACWA Power, Infinity Power e AMEA Power estão a desenvolver capacidade renovável à escala de gigawatts em todo o continente. Globeleq e TotalEnergies estão a financiar e operar projetos que demonstram como o capital privado pode entregar infraestruturas de nível industrial. British International Investment e IFC estão a estruturar operações que combinam financiamento concessional e comercial para desbloquear a participação de fundos soberanos. Nedbank CIB está a fornecer estruturas de financiamento sustentável que permitem que os projetos alcancem o fecho financeiro.

“À medida que África passa da ambição para a execução, a agenda deste ano foca-se no hardware da industrialização – o aço, o betão e as linhas de transmissão que irão definir o futuro industrial do continente,” afirmou Simon Gosling, Managing Director da EnergyNet.

As empresas que lideram esta transformação enfrentam desafios comuns: estruturar projetos financiáveis onde o risco percebido excede o desempenho real, avançar minerais críticos da extração para o processamento, construir corredores de transmissão que sirvam tanto minas como cidades e mobilizar capital paciente em infraestruturas de longo prazo.

A Cidade do Cabo oferece o cenário ideal. A África do Sul está a avançar com investimento privado em transmissão, comércio de energia, desenvolvimento de renováveis impulsionado pela mineração e a gerir tensões entre crescimento industrial e compromissos climáticos — desafios que o resto do continente também enfrentará. As reformas da cidade oferecem um estudo de caso em tempo real.

A agenda reflete onde estas empresas estão a concentrar os seus recursos. Os minerais críticos terão um programa dedicado de dois dias, explorando processamento downstream, corredores de transporte e captura de valor de reservas que representam mais de 30% da oferta global. As sessões irão analisar o Corredor do Lobito, o Liberty Corridor e a infraestrutura de Simandou como modelos de financiamento de projetos em grande escala.

Os temas de transmissão e capacidade de base abordam a expansão da rede, estruturas de investimento privado e disponibilidade 24/7 para centros de dados e indústria transformadora. As sessões de comércio de energia exploram como os promotores estão a transformar o financiamento de projetos através de contratos de compra com contraparte sólida, enquanto discussões tecnológicas irão abordar IA para proteção de receitas, cadeias de fornecimento de centros de dados e conformidade com CBAM.

De forma mais ampla, a estrutura do fórum apoia a concretização de negócios. O programa de oradores inclui mesas-redondas à porta fechada que reúnem DFIs, fundos soberanos, ministros do Médio Oriente, utilities, reguladores e o setor privado para discussões diretas sobre mobilização de capital.

O evento reunirá líderes seniores do setor público e privado, com oradores de destaque incluindo H.E. Honourable Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity & Energy, South Africa; H.E. Honourable Samantha Graham-Marè, Deputy Minister of Electricity & Energy, South Africa; Dan Marokane, GCE, Eskom, South Africa; H.E. Honourable Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice President, Liberia; H.E. Honourable Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity & Energy, South Africa; H.E. Honourable Lerato Mataboge, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy; Precious Edward, Head, IPP Office, South Africa; Obaïd Amrane, CEO, Ithmar Capital, Morocco, Chair, Africa Sovereign Investors Forum (ASIF) & Chair, International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds (IFSWF); Mike Teke, Group CEO, Seriti Resources; e Jonathan Hoffman, CEO, Globeleq.

As conversas regionais em formato fireside irão destacar oportunidades no Norte, Este, Sul e Oeste de África. O primeiro dia contará com sessões ministeriais com participação do Ministry of Energy de Serra Leoa e do Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Natural Resources da Gâmbia.

Outros patrocinadores que impulsionam o programa incluem AKSA como Exhibitor Sponsor, com apoio de patrocinadores principais como Synergy Consulting, ATIDI, Engie, European Investment Bank, Standard Bank, Red Rocket, USP&E Global e Sungrow.

No último dia, o YES! (Youth Energy Summit) terá lugar como parte da programação do aef sob o tema ‘Empowering Today’s Entrepreneurs – Building Tomorrow’s Industrialists’. Aqui, líderes de impacto irão apresentar iniciativas escaláveis que criam oportunidades de empreendedorismo no setor energético africano, enquanto parceiros da indústria conduzem workshops interativos que desenvolvem competências práticas para 600 jovens participantes.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para EnergyNet Ltd..

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