Category: MIL-OSI

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Le Président João Lourenço décerne à Haim Taib la Médaille de la Paix et du Développement de l’Angola pour trois décennies de partenariat et de progrès

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Dans le cadre des célébrations nationales marquant les 50 ans de l’indépendance de l’Angola, le Gouvernement angolais a rendu hommage à des personnalités et partenaires ayant apporté une contribution exceptionnelle au développement et au progrès du pays. Parmi les lauréats, Son Excellence João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, Président de la République d’Angola, a remis à Haim Taib, Fondateur et Président du Groupe Menomadin et du Groupe Mitrelli (https://Mitrelli.com/), la Médaille de la Paix et du Développement (Classe Paz e Desenvolvimento), en reconnaissance de son partenariat de longue date avec l’Angola et de sa contribution au renforcement des fondements économiques et sociaux de la nation.

Haim Taib est homme d’affaires, investisseur et philanthrope, doté de plus de quarante ans d’expérience, dont plus de trente-cinq en Afrique, où il a construit une puissante chaîne de valeur d’entreprises et d’initiatives. Depuis plus de trois décennies, il a dirigé ou accompagné plus de cent projets d’envergure nationale et mobilisé des investissements qui ont amélioré la vie de millions de personnes et soutenu une croissance durable à travers le continent.

Arrivé en Angola en 1991, en pleine guerre civile, Haim Taib a reconnu la résilience et le potentiel du pays. Animé d’une vision de transformation, il s’est engagé à convertir la paix en progrès et l’espoir en opportunité, mobilisant ressources financières et humaines pour contribuer à l’essor du pays dans une période de grands défis économiques et sociaux. Après la guerre, il a su rassembler les différentes parties autour d’un objectif commun, menant à la création de communautés autosuffisantes basées sur la production alimentaire. L’initiative Aldeia Nova est ainsi devenue un symbole de paix et un nouveau chapitre du développement agro-industriel.

À partir de cette base, Haim Taib a conduit la phase suivante de croissance à travers son écosystème d’entreprises, notamment Mitrelli, Luminar, Menomadin et JETA, devenant un partenaire stratégique de l’Angola dans des secteurs essentiels au développement humain : l’eau, la sécurité alimentaire, l’énergie et le logement, suivis par l’éducation, la santé et la technologie. Ces initiatives ont permis la mise en œuvre de projets nationaux majeurs tels que “Eau pour Tous”, des hôpitaux modernes, des centres d’entrepreneuriat, des écoles professionnelles, ainsi que des opérations d’envergure dans les télécommunications et l’impact social. Plus récemment, des projets emblématiques tels que des nouvelles centralités et le Centre des Sciences de Luanda (CCL) sont venus renforcer sa mission, posant les bases d’une croissance inclusive.

En 2025, s’appuyant sur trois décennies de partenariat, il a cofondé avec le Fonds Souverain d’Angola la plateforme Lobito Corridor Impact Development (LCID), une initiative privée d’un milliard de dollars, dont 100 millions déjà engagés. Cette plateforme incarne une nouvelle génération de mécanismes de financement alliant objectif public et capital privé, pour stimuler les infrastructures, le commerce, l’agriculture et l’éducation en Angola, en République Démocratique du Congo et en Zambie.

Rien de tout cela n’aurait été possible sans la confiance et la coopération du Gouvernement angolais, des autorités locales, des partenaires économiques et financiers, ainsi que des communautés et employés qui ont ouvert leurs portes et leurs cœurs pour travailler ensemble. Au fil des ans, ces projets ont créé des dizaines de milliers d’emplois, apporté l’électricité et l’eau à des millions de foyers, construit des logements et des hôpitaux, et offert aux jeunes des opportunités à travers l’innovation, l’éducation et la culture. Leur dévouement est ce qui transforme une vision en réalité, et le progrès en vie quotidienne.

La vision sociale de Haim Taib se concrétise également à travers la Fundação Arte e Cultura, qui œuvre à l’autonomisation des jeunes Angolais par l’art, l’éducation et la culture. Alors que l’Angola célèbre un demi-siècle d’indépendance, la Médaille de la Paix et du Développement rend hommage à la contribution durable de Haim Taib à la paix et au développement de la nation.

“Cette reconnaissance appartient autant au peuple angolais qu’à moi-même,” a déclaré Haim Taib. “C’est un hommage à notre conviction partagée que, lorsque les gens peuvent rêver, ils peuvent créer. Ils peuvent changer. Ils peuvent construire leur avenir de leurs propres mains. Je partage cet honneur avec tous les membres de notre Groupe, des femmes et des hommes remarquables dont le dévouement, les valeurs et la foi dans cette vision la font vivre chaque jour.”

Distribué par APO Group pour Mitrelli Group.

Suivez Mitrelli sur :
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4hWXnMa

À propos de Mitrelli :
Mitrelli est une entreprise internationale basée en Suisse, avec plus d’une décennie d’impact significatif et plus de 100 projets d’envergure nationale à travers le continent. Elle s’engage à promouvoir une croissance économique et sociale durable grâce à des partenariats stratégiques avec les gouvernements africains, les institutions financières et les communautés. Mitrelli fournit des solutions intégrées et durables soutenant les Objectifs de Développement Durable (ODD) des Nations Unies.

Ses activités couvrent six secteurs : urbanisation, sécurité alimentaire et hydrique, énergie, éducation, santé et technologie. Présente dans 10 pays sur 4 continents, Mitrelli favorise l’emploi local, l’approvisionnement national et la collaboration pour bâtir un avenir durable. Pour plus d’informations: https://Mitrelli.com/.

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Somalia: Thousands of climate-displaced individuals being failed by authorities and the international community – new report

Source: APO


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Somali authorities and the international community have repeatedly failed to protect thousands of people from drought-affected communities in southern Somalia, exposing them to violations of their rights to food, water, family, health and life, Amnesty International said in a new report.

‘No rain, no food, no animals: The human rights impact of drought and displacement in Somalia’ documents how, between 2020 and 2023, climate change-related drought, coupled with conflict and marginalization, forced thousands of people to relocate to camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) initially in southern Somalia and then to Dadaab Refugee Camp in Kenya. During these arduous journeys, the Somali authorities failed to provide relief, including health services and food.

“Somalia is on the frontline of human-induced climate change. As the seventh most climate-vulnerable country in the world, Somalia’s authorities, with the support of the international community, must urgently address the marginalization of communities in southern Somalia who are acutely impacted by global warming caused mainly by fossil fuel combustion, said Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa region.

“Somalia’s contribution to global warming is negligible, yet its people are bearing the brunt of the climate crisis, while also facing long running conflict and poverty. High income countries, especially those most responsible for climate change, must step in and meet their obligations to support Somalia in adapting to the effects of climate change.”

The report is based on interviews carried out between September 2024 and March 2025, with 177 people displaced into Dadaab Refugee Camp. Amnesty also interviewed emergency service providers, humanitarian workers, government officials, and climate change experts who either work in Somalia or have knowledge and experience of the country’s vulnerabilities to drought and climate change.

“Everything dried up”

Persistent drought in southern Somalia since 2022, made worse by human induced climate change, has combined with several other factors such as continued conflict to drive mass displacement. With water sources drying up, people have been forced to drink contaminated water, fostering the spread of water-borne diseases including cholera. The scarcity of local health facilities forced people to travel up to 1000km for treatment.

The drought also caused food prices to rise by up to 160% above pre-2020 levels across Somalia. This, coupled with depleted food stores, dry farmlands and reduced incomes, made food unavailable and inaccessible, resulting in rampant malnutrition and food insecurity, driving further displacement. The drought was eventually declared a national disaster in November, 2021.  

Despite this growing health crisis, Somalia has failed to fulfil its human rights obligation to guarantee the rights of drought-affected individuals by not increasing its allocation to the health budget – which is currently less than 5% of overall government expenditure – to 15% as set out in the Abuja declaration, a commitment by African Union countries including Somalia to increase national health budgets.

“Limited resources and the ongoing conflict are not an excuse to neglect international obligations and necessary government action; Somalia erred by folding its hands. Having declared the drought a national disaster, authorities should have ensured there were enough resources to protect drought affected people, including by seeking extra international assistance,” said Tigere Chagutah.

Fadumo*, a 53-year-old mother of eight from Xabaalo Barbar in Baydhabo District, told Amnesty that after years of erratic rainfall and drought, she abandoned her farm and moved to an IDP camp in the capital Mogadishu because she had no food and water. The only available water, which was dirty and salty, was from a well 24 hours away on foot or donkey cart. After being unable to find work in Mogadishu, she moved to Dadaab.

Amnesty found that the Somali authorities failed to prevent family separation and the abandonment of children, older people and people with medical conditions during drought-induced displacement.

Bile*, a 33-year-old farmer and father of eight from Fargarow in Jilib, explained how his parents died after he had to move to Dadaab:

“When the drought came, everything dried up. I had eight children, a wife and my parents who were old and relied on me. So, when the drought came, we quickly finished the food that we had stored. I decided to move with my children and wife in 2023. However, since I was their only provider, my parents succumbed to the famine after I left them in Jilib.”

Due to the lack of early warning systems, floods also destroyed grains stored underground resulting in even greater food insecurity during the drought.

“The Somali authorities must urgently come up with climate change resilience policies that also address the resulting loss and damage as witnessed among the most vulnerable communities in southern and central Somalia,” said Tigere Chagutah.

Multiple displacements

Many IDPs said they had been displaced more than once, initially into IDP camps or informal settlements within southern Somalia, where some government services were available and some NGOs were present. However, with many of these sites located in areas of high climate vulnerability, further displacements occurred due to drought or floods.

As the number of IDPs in southern Somalia soared, humanitarian actors lacked adequate resources to address their needs, forcing IDPs to move to Dadaab.

The journey to Dadaab on the Somalia-Kenya border is long and arduous. Depending on the mode of transport it can take anywhere between two days to six weeks. Those with resources could board or hire vehicles. However, the fares are exorbitant and out of reach for many, with some families telling Amnesty International that they had to sell household items, livestock, grains or even land to afford fares.

Services from humanitarian organizations and government departments along the transport routes were largely absent, with the limited assistance available appearing to be centralized around settlements and IDP camps and not along transport corridors. This is despite Somalia’s obligations under its constitution and international law, including under the Kampala Convention, to protect those displaced by climate change.

Abdullahi, who travelled from Saakow in Somalia to Dadaab, said:

“When we got to Dhobley, well-wishers picked 15 women and children and gave them a lift in their vehicle to Dadaab. The men were left behind to walk with the donkey carts. We carried sorghum [a type of grain] and water for the children, but they were extremely malnourished on arrival because what we had only lasted a few days.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Amnesty International.

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Nigeria: Government must clear names of executed activists Ogoni Nine

Source: APO


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Marking 30 years since the Nigerian government’s brutal execution of nine leading environmental activists – the Ogoni Nine – for fighting to protect the Niger Delta from oil giant Shell, Amnesty International is calling for their full exoneration. The anniversary coincides with the start of the UN climate talks (COP 30) in Brazil.

The Ogoni Nine’s protests in 1995 brought global attention to the devastating cost of the fossil fuel industry on the climate, people’s lives, the environment, and continued poverty in oil producing areas.

In June 2025, the Nigerian government pardoned the Ogoni Nine. While Amnesty International welcomed the news, it fell short of the justice the Ogoni Nine and their families deserve.

“The Ogoni Nine, led by Nigeria’s leading author and campaigner Ken Saro-Wiwa, were brutally executed in 1995 by a regime that wanted to hide the crimes of Shell and other oil companies. These companies were destroying – and continue to destroy – the lives and livelihoods of tens of thousands of people across the Niger Delta as a result of their devastating oil spills and leaks,” said Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International’s Nigeria Country Director.  

“While their pardon was a step forward, the Ogoni Nine deserve full exoneration. These men were executed for a crime they did not commit. Their friends and family have been through enough and they deserve justice.”

Esther Kiobel, the wife of Dr Barinem Kiobel, a former government official who was one of the Ogoni Nine, hasspent 30 years battling the huge oil conglomerate in and out of court and won’t stop until her husband’s name is cleared.

“My husband was killed like a criminal and all I wanted was for his name to be exonerated – it’s what I still want. My father used to tell me: ‘A good name is better than gold or silver.’ That is what gave me the strength to fight.”

A brutal campaign

The executions were the culmination of a brutal campaign by Nigeria’s military government to silence the protests of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) who, under Ken Saro-Wiwa’s leadership, had campaigned against continued pollution from oil spills and gas flaring.

“Extensive reporting from Amnesty International concluded that oil company Shell knowingly provided encouragement and motivation to the military authorities to stop the MOSOP protests, even after the authorities repeatedly committed human rights violations in Ogoniland and specifically targeted Ken Saro-Wiwa and MOSOP,” said Isa Sanusi.

In 2018, Amnesty International shared its reporting with the International Crimes Unit of the Netherlands Public Prosecution Service to evaluate whether Shell bore criminal responsibility for its involvement in the military crackdown on the MOSOP demonstrations.

The Dutch authorities determined, according to a private letter addressed to Amnesty International, that “a large-scale raid on 43 Ogoni villages and Giokoo” by the Nigerian military, which led to numerous killings, followed Shell’s request for assistance in securing its operations in March 1994, which Shell “knew or should have known” would lead to disproportionate force.

According to this letter, Dutch law enforcement declined to open a criminal investigation into Shell’s responsibility because they lacked “enough evidence that Shell intended to have the demonstrators killed by the various Nigerian troops” and believed that they had no “realistic” prospect of collecting such evidence.

However, according to Amnesty International, the evidence established sufficient grounds for Dutch authorities to investigate Shell’s criminal responsibility.

Devastating effects still felt today

The effects of the Ogoni Nine’s executions are still felt across local communities today.

For 60 years Shell and other oil companies have been responsible for oil spills and leaks due to poorly maintained pipelines, wells and inadequate clean-up attempts that have ravaged the health and livelihoods of many of the 30 million people living in the Niger Delta – most of whom live in poverty. The oil spills have caused permanent damage to farmlands, waterways, and drinking water – affecting people’s health and leaving communities unable to farm or fish.

“The execution of these activists has given the Nigerian government and oil companies, including Shell, licence to crack down on protests and intimidate people in the Niger Delta who have been demanding justice and an end to their toxic pollution,” said Isa Sanusi. 

However, the Ogale and Bille communities affected by the oil spills refuse to be silenced. This year saw them take Shell to the UK’s Royal Courts of Justice to demand the oil giant clean up the oil spills that have wrecked their livelihoods, health and caused widespread devastation to the local environment. Their case is scheduled to be heard in March 2027.

All eyes on fossil fuels

With the start of COP 30, the world’s attention is set to turn to the devastating effects of fossil fuels, as Amnesty International calls for states to commit to a full, fast, fair and funded fossil-fuel phase-out and just transition to sustainable energy for all.

“With major oil spills yet to be cleaned up, the story of the Ogoni Nine has never been more pertinent. Their fight continues and their memories will never be forgotten, as will the plight of many other activists who continue to defend the environment,” said Isa Sanusi.

“As we mark the 30th anniversary of these executions, we hope local communities in Nigeria will be given the space, time and dignity to hold remembrance events for the Ogoni Nine free of harassment from the authorities.”

On 12 November, Amnesty International will release Extraction Extinction: Why the life cycle of fossil fuels threatens life, nature, and human rights, a new report on environmental human rights defenders which includes a dedication to the Ogoni Nine and a full case study on oil pollution in the Niger Delta.

Amnesty International is calling for Shell to conduct meaningful consultation with affected communities about its plans for disengagement. Irrespective of any divestment of operations and as part of this consultation, Shell must also propose a full remediation plan including details of all completed and ongoing clean-ups across its areas of operation, as well as adequate compensation for the severe and sustained harm affected communities have faced as a result of Shell’s operations in the Niger Delta. All these plans and processes should be in line with international human rights law and standards.

BACKGROUND

The Ogoni Nine, led by environmental activist and writer Ken Saro-Wiwa, included Barinem Kiobel, John Kpuinen, Baribor Bera, Felix Nuate, Paul Levula, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo and Daniel Gbokoo. They were executed after a blatantly unfair trial on 10 November 1995. Wrongly accused of involvement in murder, the men had in fact been put on trial because they challenged the devastating impact of oil production by Shell in the Ogoniland region of the Niger Delta. 

Amnesty International has published numerous reports, documenting the detrimental impact Shell’s operations are having on Nigerian communities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Amnesty International.

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Deputy President Mashatile to address the Association of Water and Sanitation Institutions of South Africa

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will tomorrow, 10 November 2025, virtually address the Association of Water and Sanitation Institutions of South Africa (AWSISA) which is taking place at the Emperors Palace, in Johannesburg, Gauteng Province.

The AWSISA operates as a unifying strategic body and key sector steward for the country’s water sector by incorporating the entire value chain from resource management to end-user service delivery. Its mandate is to champion sustainable and innovative solutions, ensuring that collaborative governance is effectively leveraged to fulfill the constitutional right of every citizen to safe water and proper sanitation.

AWSISA will host this inaugural Africa & Global South Water and Sanitation Dialogue under the theme: Towards Sustainable Water and Sanitation Security in Africa. 

The dialogue will foster knowledge exchange innovation, partnerships, and policy reform across the continent, and it is expected to convene influential global, continental and local leaders to exchange critical knowledge, best practices as well as innovative strategies to attract investments in sustainable water and sanitation services.

Details of the address are as follows:

Date: Monday, 10 November 2025
Time: 09:00
Platform: Virtual link to be provided.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Sommet Mondial sur le développement social au Qatar : Le Bénin montre la voie d’un social structuré et productif

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Ministre des Affaires Sociales et de la Microfinance, Madame Véronique TOGNIFODÉ, conduit depuis le lundi 03 novembre 2025, une délégation béninoise au Deuxième Sommet mondial sur le développement social, qui se tient à Doha, au Qatar, sous l’égide des Nations Unies. 

Après les travaux préparatoires du lundi, la cérémonie officielle d’ouverture s’est déroulée le mardi 04 novembre 2025 au Centre National de Conventions du Qatar, sous la présidence de Son Altesse Cheikh Tamim Ben Hamad AL-THANI, Émir du Qatar, en présence du Secrétaire général des Nations Unies, António GUTERRES, et de Madame Annalena BAERBOCK, Présidente de la 78ᵉ Assemblée générale des Nations Unies. 

À l’occasion de la séance plénière du mercredi 05 novembre 2025, la Ministre Véronique TOGNIFODÉ a été invitée à prendre la parole au nom du Gouvernement béninois pour exposer le modèle béninois de développement social, devant des milliers de participants venus des cinq continents. 

Dans son intervention, la Ministre des Affaires Sociales a mis en lumière les succès du Bénin en matière de protection sociale. Mme TOGNIFODÉ a présenté plusieurs réformes emblématiques, dont le Programme des filets de protection sociale productifs, l’Assurance pour le Renforcement du Capital Humain (ARCH) à travers la prise en charge gratuite par l’État des soins de santé primaire des personnes pauvres, le renforcement de capacités des artisans (Formation) et leur accès facilité au crédit. Elle a aussi présenté les succès du microcrédit Alafia, la dynamisation de l’Institut National de la Femme (INF) pour accélérer la lutte contre les violences faites aux filles et aux femmes, les stratégies de maintien des filles à l’école et la représentativité accrue des femmes à l’Assemblée nationale. 

Les mécanismes de protection des enfants, y compris les cantines scolaires, le projet de supplémentation nutritionnelle des 1000 premiers jours et les avancées en matière d’inclusion des personnes handicapées ont été également exposés. Devant l’Assemblée, la Ministre a rendu un vibrant hommage au Président Patrice TALON, salué pour son leadership et sa vision d’un social structuré et productif, orienté vers l’autonomie des populations et la prospérité collective. 

Le Sommet, qui a réuni plusieurs dizaines de Chefs d’État et de gouvernement, 170 Ministres et plus de 14.000 participants, a offert au Bénin une tribune internationale pour démontrer que le développement social durable n’est pas un idéal, mais une réalité vécue. À l’issue des allocutions officielles, les dirigeants mondiaux ont adopté la Déclaration politique de Doha, réaffirmant leur engagement commun en faveur de la justice sociale, de l’inclusion et de la lutte contre les inégalités. 

La délégation du Bénin a également pris part à des tables-rondes au cours desquelles des discussions approfondies ont été menées sur les approches des différents pays participants. Ce fut aussi l’occasion pour la Ministre et sa délégation d’insister, non seulement sur les succès actuels du Bénin, mais surtout sur la vision du Gouvernement pour le secteur du social les années à venir. 

En marge des travaux, la Ministre a eu des échanges avec certains de ses homologues présents à ce rendez-vous mondial. Avec  Madame Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al NUAIMI, Ministre Qatari en charge du Développement Social et de la Famille, notamment, les échanges ont porté sur le renforcement des mécanismes de protection de la femme et des filles, la santé et l’éducation des enfants. Les deux personnalités ont réaffirmé leur volonté à faire en sorte que les actions sociales touchent davantage les filles et les femmes, principales cibles vulnérables. 

Avant de quitter Doha, la Ministre Véronique TOGNIFODÉ, en sa qualité de Ministre des enseignements Secondaire, Technique et de la Formation Professionnelle a visité la Fondation pour l’éducation, les sciences et le développement communautaire du Qatar, une organisation privée sans but lucratif dans l’État du Qatar, fondée en 1995. Au cours d’une visité-guidée, il a été expliqué à la Ministre, les domaines d’intervention, les références et les opportunités de la Fondation du Qatar qui, d’ailleurs, collabore avec les universités internationales afin d’établir des campus au Qatar. 

Le Bénin étant dans la même vision, à travers Sèmè-City, la Ministre a promis rendre compte à qui de droit pour la suite à donner en terme de partenariat.

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

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Bénin – Décentralisation et gouvernance locale : Le Gouvernement à l’écoute des collectivités

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Les locaux de la Mairie d’Abomey-Calavi a abrité, le vendredi 7 novembre 2025, la séance de clôture de la tournée du Ministre de la Décentralisation et de la Gouvernance Locale, Monsieur Raphaël AKOTÈGNON dans les neuf (09) arrondissements de la commune. En présence du Maire Angelo AHOUANDJINOU, du Préfet Jean-Claude CODJIA et de la Directrice Départementale de la Police Républicaine de l’Atlantique, Madame Ghislaine BOCOVO, cette rencontre a permis de dresser un bilan des échanges menés dans les communes à statut particulier et d’évaluer la mise en œuvre de la réforme de l’administration territoriale. 

Rappelant que le décret N°2022-319 du 1ᵉʳ juin 2022 confère à Abomey-Calavi un statut particulier, le Ministre AKOTÈGNON a souligné les enjeux majeurs liés à la croissance démographique et à l’expansion urbaine de la commune. Abomey-Calavi, appelée à devenir un pôle stratégique de gouvernance locale, doit faire face à des défis importants en matière de planification, de sécurité et de gestion des services publics. 

La tournée ministérielle, qui a parcouru les neuf arrondissements de la commune, s’est articulée autour de trois priorités : identifier les difficultés dans la mise en œuvre de la réforme territoriale, examiner les conditions de travail du personnel communal et infracommunal, et formuler des recommandations pour une gouvernance plus performante. Les discussions ont également mis l’accent sur deux thématiques transversales : la gestion administrative et financière, ainsi que la coproduction de la sécurité au niveau local. 

Face aux défis posés par l’urbanisation rapide notamment la gestion foncière, la circulation routière, les incivilités et la cohésion sociale, le Ministre a invité les acteurs locaux à renforcer les mécanismes de prévention et de veille communautaire. À l’approche des élections générales de 2026, le Ministre AKOTEGNON a souligné que « c’est à l’échelle locale que notre République se mesure concrètement », exhortant les élus à davantage de rigueur, de transparence et de responsabilité dans la conduite des affaires publiques. 

En clôturant cette étape de sa tournée dans la commune d’Abomey-Calavi, Monsieur Raphaël AKOTÈGNON a salué la mobilisation exemplaire des autorités locales et réaffirmé la détermination du Gouvernement à poursuivre la réforme de la décentralisation. Il a insisté sur le renforcement des structures infracommunales, l’évaluation des performances et la participation citoyenne à la gouvernance territoriale. Après cette étape de l’Atlantique, la délégation ministérielle poursuivra sa tournée à Porto-Novo, pour la suite de cette mission de proximité au service du développement local.

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

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South Africa strengthens trade ties with Saudi Arabia

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa strengthens trade ties with Saudi Arabia

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) will undertake an Outward Selling Mission (OSM) to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 10 – 12 November 2025. 

The project forms part of the implementation plan for the recently concluded Joint Economic Commission, in which Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, presented to Saudi officials and business a list of South Africa’s leading potential export products, and a comprehensive portfolio of high-impact investment projects, aligned with the country’s economic priorities. 

The OSM will, among other things, facilitate access for South African value-added products and services into the Saudi Arabian market, build brand awareness for South African products and services, and connect with potential buyers and importers. 

The companies selected are mainly in the agro-processing and health sectors. 

The Outward Selling Mission aligns with the dtic’s strategic objective of expanding South Africa’s industrial footprint and unlocking new market opportunities in the Middle East region.

It serves as a platform to promote value-added exports, strengthen industrial linkages, and position South African firms competitively within regional and global value chains. 

Director of Export Promotion and Marketing at the dtic, Seema Sardha, emphasised the department’s strong commitment to supporting South African companies in expanding their global footprint. 

She said the successful implementation of the mission will play a key role in advancing the national objectives of job creation, industrialisation and increased value addition across priority sectors.

“This mission represents a practical step in helping our exporters gain direct access to market insights, connect with potential buyers and understand the regulatory and logistical requirements for doing business in Saudi Arabia.

“Our focus is on providing hands-on support to participating companies, facilitating business-to-business engagements, guiding them through market entry processes and ensuring they are well-positioned to secure long-term partnerships.

“We want South African businesses to not only enter these markets but to grow and compete effectively, increase value-added exports and create quality jobs at home through greater participation in global trade,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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AMAN UNION and Saudi Export-Import Bank (Saudi EXIM Bank) Sign Agreement for the Transfer of AMAN Union General Secretariat

Source: APO

AMAN UNION General Secretariat, and the Saudi Export-Import Bank (Saudi EXIM Bank) have signed a Transfer Agreement outlining the framework for transferring the tasks and functions of the General Secretariat of the AMAN Union from AMAN UNION General Secretariat to Saudi EXIM Bank.

The agreement was signed by Mr. Mourad Mizouri, Secretary General of AMAN UNION, and Mr. Naif bin Othman Alajroush, Director General of International & Government Relations at Saudi EXIM. The signing took place on the sidelines of the 15th Annual General Meeting of the AMAN Union, held from November 4–6, 2025, in Jeddah and hosted by ICIEC. The gathering brought together leading professionals and experts in credit and investment insurance to explore strategies for promoting trade, mitigating risks, and strengthening regional economic integration.

Under this agreement, AMAN UNION Secretariat General and Saudi EXIM Bank will cooperate to ensure the smooth transfer of the Union’s duties, responsibilities, records, assets, and the institutional functions of the General Secretariat. This milestone reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to reinforcing the AMAN Union’s capacity and advancing its long-term vision.

Mr. Mourad Mizouri, AMAN UNION Secretary General, stated, “This transition marks an important step in enhancing the operational independence and sustainability of the AMAN Union. The AMAN UNION members remain committed to supporting the Union’s mission of fostering collaboration among them.”

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

Media Contact:
Aman Union
General Secretariat of Aman Union
Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Email: iciec.ausecretariat@isdb.org

About AMAN UNION:
The AMAN Union is a professional forum that brings together insurers and reinsurers covering commercial and non-commercial risks in the member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Arab Investment and Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (Dhaman). The Union was established on October 28, 2009, following a bilateral agreement between Dhaman and the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) to unify their efforts in creating a platform that enhances cooperation among insurers and reinsurers operating within their respective member countries.

Website: www.AMANUNION.org

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L’UNION AMAN et la Banque saoudienne d’export-import (Saudi EXIM Bank) signent un accord pour le transfert du secrétariat général de l’Union AMAN

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Secrétariat général d’AMAN UNION et la Banque saoudienne d’import-export (Saudi EXIM Bank) ont signé un accord de transfert définissant le cadre pour le transfert des tâches et des fonctions du Secrétariat général de l’Union AMAN à la Saudi EXIM.

L’accord a été signé par M. Mourad Mizouri, Secrétaire général de l’UNION AMAN, et M. Naif bin Othman Alajroush, directeur général des relations internationales et gouvernementales de Saudi EXIM. L’accord a été signé en marge de la 15ème Assemblée générale annuelle de l’Union AMAN, qui a eu lieu du 4 au 6 novembre 2025 à Djeddah et organisée par la SIACE. La réunion a rassemblé des professionnels et des experts de haut niveau dans les domaines du crédit et de l’assurance des investissements afin d’explorer des stratégies visant à promouvoir le commerce, à atténuer les risques et à renforcer l’intégration économique régionale.

En vertu de cet accord, le Secrétariat général de l’UNION AMAN et la Banque saoudienne d’import-export (Saudi EXIM Bank) coopéreront pour assurer le bon déroulement du transfert des missions, des responsabilités, des dossiers, des actifs et des fonctions institutionnelles du Secrétariat général de l’Union. Cette étape importante reflète l’engagement commun des deux institutions à renforcer les capacités de l’Union AMAN et à faire progresser sa vision à long terme.

M. Mourad Mizouri, Secrétaire général de l’Union AMAN, a déclaré: «Cette transition marque une étape importante dans le renforcement de l’indépendance opérationnelle et de la durabilité de l’Union AMAN. Les membres de l’UNION AMAN restent déterminés à soutenir la mission de l’Union qui consiste à favoriser la collaboration entre eux.»

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

Contact médiatique :
L’Union Aman
Secrétariat Général de l’Union Aman
Djeddah, Royaume d’Arabie saoudite
Courriel: iciec.ausecretariat@isdb.org

À propos de l’UNION AMAN :
L’Union AMAN est un forum professionnel regroupant les assureurs et les réassureurs des risques commerciaux et non commerciaux des pays membres de l’Organisation de la coopération islamique (OCI) et de la Société arabe de garantie des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (DHAMAN). L’Union AMAN a été créée le 28 octobre 2009, suite à un accord bilatéral entre DHAMAN et la Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) pour unir leurs efforts afin de créer une plate-forme qui renforce la coopération entre les assureurs et les réassureurs opérant dans leurs pays membres respectifs.

Site Web: www.AMANUNION.org

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President Ramaphosa elected interim Chair of SADC

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has been elected as the interim Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) following the regional bloc’s virtual Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government held on Friday, 7 November 2025.

The decision follows the Republic of Madagascar’s decision to relinquish its role as SADC Chair due to recent political developments that have affected its capacity to fulfil the responsibilities of the position. In line with SADC’s Treaty provisions, South Africa, as the Deputy Chair, assumes interim leadership of the regional body until August 2026.

In his opening remarks at the Summit, President Ramaphosa reaffirmed the importance of regional unity and decisive leadership in addressing the challenges facing the region.

“We gather today not merely to deliberate on the agenda before us, but to reaffirm our shared commitment to the peace, stability and prosperity of our region. Our collective sense of regional solidarity at this time is our strongest currency,” President Ramaphosa said. 

He further emphasised the need for pragmatic solutions to the region’s socio-economic challenges.

“The people of our region continue to look to us for leadership that delivers the vision of a peaceful, inclusive and industrialised region, which we have set ourselves to realise in 2050. But they cannot wait for that anticipated year to fulfil their current needs,” he said.

According to the Summit communiqué, South Africa will steer SADC under the existing theme adopted in August 2025, which is ‘Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC’.

The SADC Secretariat will engage Member States, in line with the principle of rotation, to identify a new Incoming Chairperson (Deputy Chairperson) by 30th November 2025.

The Extraordinary Summit extended condolences to the families affected by recent unrest in Madagascar and Tanzania, and congratulated leaders in Malawi, Seychelles and Tanzania on their recent elections.

Summit participants expressed appreciation to President Ramaphosa for convening the meeting and accepting to lead the regional body. The President of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, who served as outgoing Chair, offered to host selected SADC meetings in Zimbabwe during the interim period.

President Ramaphosa said the region must continue to act with “urgency and foresight to stabilise the present while safeguarding the future”. – SAnews.gov.za