Category: MIL-OSI

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Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Stadium of Life Opens in Maseru

Source: APO

Today marks the official opening of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) (https://FSC.org) Stadium of Life, Africa’s first stadium constructed with sustainably sourced timber. The structure, which sets a new standard for responsible construction practices in Africa, was independently certified by DNV Business Assurance against Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) requirements under project certification (DNV-PRO-002776).

The FSC Stadium of Life is the latest development at the Kick4Life Centre, a hub of social and economic development in the heart of Maseru, Lesotho’s capital city. The centre was first opened in 2011 as part of FIFA’s legacy for the 2010 FIFA Men’s World Cup in South Africa, with this initial support from world football’s governing body resulting in one of the world’s leading examples of a major tournament legacy achieving sustainable social impact.

Today’s event brings together stakeholders from Lesotho and internationally, to learn about the unique approach to sustainable design and construction that was used for the FSC Stadium of Life, as well as learning how the facility supports the wider work of Kick4Life FC, as a charity, social enterprise and football club dedicated to social change.

Gerard Busse, FSC’s Africa and Middle East Regional Market Development Manager, says: “Project certification verifies that the forest materials come from responsibly managed forests, ensuring the promotion of environmental stewardship and community development”.

Peter Alele, FSC’s Africa Regional Director adds: “The project highlights the continent’s potential to set global benchmarks in sustainable forestry, while demonstrating how responsible forest management can support wider social and economic development”.

Greg Markwell, Sales Manager for DNV Business Assurance Africa, says: “We’re proud to have supported the FSC Stadium of Life through our independent certification, helping to give confidence that the timber used is responsibly sourced and traceable. This was a passion project for me personally and the vision reflects DNV’s purpose of safeguarding life, property and the environment, and shows how sustainability and ingenuity can be embedded into landmark developments that deliver real community value – today and for generations to come”.

The design and construction process was led by Rise International through its ‘in loco’ design and build training programme, which supports the development of young professionals in the construction industry.

Pedro Clarke, the project’s lead architect at Rise International, says: “As the construction sector seeks materials with a lower carbon footprint, eyes are turning towards forest products”.

The stadium features 8,584 treated Eucalyptus poles, minimising concrete use and highlighting the potential of sustainable building materials. The poles were sourced from MTO Forestry’s FSC-certified plantations in Mpumalanga, South Africa, and by using FSC-certified timber, the project directly supports responsible forestry practices.

Daniela Gusman, Founder of Rise International, adds: “The Stadium of Life exemplifies a paradigm shift in sports infrastructure, combining sustainability, social impact, and cultural representation”.

The inclusion of a unique ‘Biodiversity Stand’ dedicated to showcasing diverse flora from across Lesotho’s ten districts further highlights the important relationship between sport and nature, and will be used for community education about the importance of promoting biodiversity.  A small outdoor amphitheatre – the Theatre of Life – has also been integrated, providing a stunning space for a wide range of educational sessions and cultural performances, and the opportunity to watch football through the lens of nature.

Steve Fleming MBE, Co-founder of K4L, says: “With the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup starting next month, we are proud to continue building on the legacy of Africa’s first tournament 16 years ago. Since the initial investment of a centre through FIFA’s ’20 Centres for 2010’ initiative, we have added a number of award-winning hospitality social enterprises, including No.7 Restaurant and Hokahanya Hotel & Conference Centre, which generate income to sustain our sports-based community programmes, as well as providing training and employment opportunities for young people”.

Fleming continues: “Combined with our health education, gender empowerment and life-skills development programmes, this pioneering approach to organisational sustainability and livelihoods saw us recognised with the 2025 Laureus Sport for Good Award, and the FSC Stadium of Life is the latest development which continues to push new boundaries in Sport for Good and the sports industry as a whole”.

Motlatsi Nkhahle, Kick4Life’s Country Director, adds: “The new facility will extend the impact of Kick4Life’s existing centre, serving as a home ground for our football teams, including our women’s team who became national champions of Lesotho in 2025, qualifying for the CAF Women’s Champions League. Through the Kick4Life Academy, the facility will also be used to prepare more young people – on and off the field – for genuinely life-changing student-athlete scholarships at international universities”. 

The launch event will also provide an opportunity for guests to observe a Sport for Good exhibition on Kick4Life’s 5-a-side pitch, with new artificial turf donated by SIS Pitches. There will also be an introduction to the centre’s latest social enterprise – Bophelo Gymnasium & Health Club, led by two young women who have been trained as gym and fitness instructors. Constructed using four repurposed shipping containers, the gym was developed as a part of SESLA (Sport for Education and Sustainable Livelihoods in Africa) and the Sustained Insight and Impact Initiative, backed by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and Agence Française de Développement (AFD).

Nkhahle concludes: “The FSC Stadium of Life is more than just a place to watch football; it is a destination that combines sport, nature, art, culture and social impact. It is an inspirational place where you can become part of a special community dedicated to building a brighter future for the children and young people of Lesotho”.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Forest Stewardship Council.

About Kick4Life FC:
Kick4Life FC is a multi-award-winning charity, social enterprise and football club based in Lesotho in Southern Africa. Their mission is to transform the lives of children and young people in Lesotho through the power of sport, with a range of interventions focused on health, education, gender, employability and nature. Through Kick4Life Assist, they also support organisations globally in developing and implementing Sport for Good programmes and social enterprises. Kick4Life’s work was recognised with the Laureus Sport for Good Award 2025.

About Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®):
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) is a non-profit organization that provides a proven responsible forest management solution. Currently, over 170 million hectares of forests worldwide are certified according to FSC standards. It is widely regarded as the most rigorous forest certification system among NGOs, consumers, and businesses alike to tackle today’s deforestation, climate, and biodiversity challenges. The FSC forest management standard is based on ten core principles designed to address a broad range of environmental, social and economic factors. FSC’s “check tree” label is found on millions of forest-based products and verifies that they are responsibly sourced, from forest to consumer. https://FSC.org.

About Rise International:
Rise International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to partnering with rural African communities to create sustainable opportunities in education, architecture, and economic empowerment, with a special focus on women and children. Their innovative social enterprise model combines humanitarian mission with sustainable business practices, creating self-funding initiatives that generate both social impact and economic value within the communities they serve.

About DNV Business Assurance:
DNV Business Assurance is a leading global provider of accredited management system certification, supply chain assurance, and training services. Operating in over 100 countries, it helps companies across diverse sectors manage risk, improve performance, and ensure compliance, having issued over 70,000 certificates for safety, quality, and environmental standards.

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Qatar Participates in High-Level Meeting of Int. Coalition for Return of Ukrainian Children

Source: Government of Qatar

Brussels| May 11, 2026

The State of Qatar participated in the high-level meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, held in Brussels on Monday.

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad represented the State of Qatar at the meeting.

In her speech during the event, Her Excellency said that today’s meeting reflects collective responsibility to protect civilians affected by conflict, especially children, whose safety, dignity, and future must remain at the core of all international efforts.

In response to the conflict’s humanitarian dimensions and following the State of Qatar’s high-level discussions with both Ukraine and the Russian Federation during 2023, Qatar undertook humanitarian mediation efforts aimed at facilitating the return of Ukrainian children separated from their families, Her Excellency pointed out.

At the request of the Ukrainian side, Qatar carried out a number of humanitarian missions and hosted consultations with both parties in pursuit of this humanitarian objective, she said.

Qatari mediation efforts succeeded in reuniting 87 Ukrainian children with their families, through more than fourteen humanitarian operations conducted in coordination with the International Committee of the Red Cross, HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation noted.

Her Excellency affirmed that these efforts stemmed from a humanitarian approach that places children’s safety, dignity, and care as the highest priority, in line with international humanitarian principles. 

The State of Qatar hosted a number of Ukrainian families who were reunited in Doha, via dedicated recovery and rehabilitation programs aimed at supporting their physical and psychological well-being, she pointed out.

In addition to its mediation efforts, Qatar has maintained sustainable humanitarian support for the Ukrainian people, as HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani gave directives in 2023 to allocate USD 100 million to support humanitarian response efforts in Ukraine, Her Excellency highlighted, adding that Qatar also contributed to the “Grain from Ukraine” initiative with USD 20 million, in support of international efforts to strengthen global food security.

HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation further said that the State of Qatar supported educational initiatives and child protection projects, including providing university scholarships to Ukrainian students, in addition to a USD 3.5 million initiative to establish and equip shelters in schools and kindergartens, benefiting thousands of children.
In cooperation with the Olena Zelenska Foundation, Qatar supported efforts to rehabilitate and rebuild vital healthcare facilities in Ukraine, including specialized medical facilities dedicated to child care, she also noted.

Her Excellency stressed that protecting children in armed conflicts must remain a shared international priority that transcends political considerations and geopolitical divisions. 

HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation delivered two practical messages to participants: the first being that mediation alone without sustained practical follow-up is not enough, noting that the State of Qatar is ready to share its experience in reuniting children with their families, numbering 115 children, with any country seeking to achieve the same outcome. 

As for her second practical message, it was that every child still separated from their family is waiting for help, adding that time is not on those children’s side, as words alone cannot restore a stolen childhood.
She added that behind every number mentioned today – 87, 28, 115 – is a child asking themselves every night about the moment they will feel safe again.

Although certainty cannot be promised, yet doing everything possible to help them is, Her Excellency said. 
She concluded by reaffirming the State of Qatar’s commitment to continuing its steadfast approach based on diplomacy and mediation to achieve international peace and security, offering its expertise, networks of relations, and belief in genuine humanitarian action. 

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President assures nation that communities can depend on weather disaster relief effort

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the loss of at least 10 lives linked to severe weather events affecting several provinces.

The President’s thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of the people who have died in events arising from heavy rainfall, flooding, thunderstorms, damaging winds and snowfall.

Government has, through the National Disaster Management Centre, declared a national state of disaster in response to the loss of life, infrastructure damage, disruptions to essential services, and the displacement of communities.

President Ramaphosa assures the nation that national, provincial and municipal authorities will work with communities to address the effects of the disaster.

President Ramaphosa appreciates the way in which individuals, civil society organisations and the business sector have stepped forward to alleviate the difficulties inflicted by natural events.

The President also appreciates the way in which rescue and recovery crews are responding in conditions where the weather also has an impact on recovery and rescue operations, including limited air operations.

President Ramaphosa said: “As winter sets in, we are vulnerable to events which we may be able to forecast but whose actual intensity in specific locations we may not be able to predict.

“We are, however, making the best use of science to pre-empt some of these events and to respond to the aftermath.”

The President says the National Disaster Management Centre and Cabinet will be updated on critical forecasts and disastrous impacts and responses will be modified as conditions dictate.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Les organismes énergétiques mondiaux se réunissent à l’African Energy Week 2026 pour façonner l’avenir énergétique du continent

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Alors que l’Afrique intensifie ses efforts pour concilier sécurité énergétique, croissance industrielle et décarbonisation, l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 réunira un groupe influent d’associations mondiales dont le travail définit de plus en plus la trajectoire des systèmes énergétiques du continent. La participation de Nikki Martin, présidente-directrice générale d’EnerGeo Alliance ; d’Anibor Kragha, secrétaire exécutif de l’Association africaine des raffineurs et distributeurs (ARDA) ; et de Carol Koech, vice-présidente pour l’Afrique au sein de la Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), marque un tournant vers une coordination plus étroite tout au long de la chaîne de valeur énergétique – des données souterraines et des investissements en amont aux infrastructures en aval et à l’accès universel à l’énergie.

Sous la direction de Nikki Martin, EnerGeo Alliance s’est attachée à promouvoir le rôle des géosciences et de l’exploration fondée sur les données pour réduire les risques liés aux investissements sur les marchés frontières. Ses récentes initiatives stratégiques, notamment des partenariats visant à soutenir la relance des activités d’exploration dans des pays tels que la Libye, reflètent une volonté plus large de rétablir la rigueur technique et la confiance des investisseurs dans les secteurs en amont africains. En renforçant le lien entre les informations sur le sous-sol et les décisions politiques, EnerGeo aide les gouvernements à positionner leurs ressources de manière plus compétitive sur un marché mondial où les capitaux sont limités.

En complément de cette orientation en amont, l’ARDA a été à l’avant-garde du renforcement de la résilience de l’Afrique en aval. Lors de sa conférence annuelle de 2026, l’association a souligné que la sécurité énergétique était une priorité absolue, les raffineurs de tout le continent s’efforçant de se protéger contre la volatilité du marché mondial et les perturbations de l’approvisionnement. Cela intervient alors que l’Afrique continue d’étendre ses capacités de raffinage et de réduire sa dépendance vis-à-vis des produits pétroliers importés, une évolution cruciale non seulement pour la souveraineté économique, mais aussi pour la stabilisation des marchés énergétiques nationaux. Le travail de l’ARDA recoupe de plus en plus les objectifs d’industrialisation plus larges, positionnant les réseaux de raffinage et de distribution comme des catalyseurs clés de la croissance.

Le GEAPP, au sein duquel M. Koech dirige la stratégie africaine de l’organisation, fait le lien entre ces systèmes énergétiques traditionnels et les ambitions de transition à long terme du continent. L’alliance s’est rapidement imposée comme une force centrale dans la mobilisation de financements mixtes pour l’électrification à grande échelle et le déploiement des énergies renouvelables. En 2026, le GEAPP et ses partenaires ont dépassé les 100 millions de dollars d’engagements pour soutenir la Mission 300 – une initiative visant à connecter 300 millions d’Africains à l’électricité d’ici 2030 – tout en s’efforçant simultanément de débloquer des flux bien plus importants de capitaux publics et privés. Grâce à une assistance technique, au développement de projets et à des interventions visant à façonner le marché, le GEAPP contribue à traduire des ambitions de haut niveau en projets bancables dans près d’une vingtaine de pays.

« L’African Energy Week a toujours eu pour objectif de réunir les bons partenaires au bon moment », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « La participation d’organisations telles que l’EnerGeo Alliance, l’ARDA et le GEAPP reflète l’alignement croissant que nous observons dans le paysage énergétique mondial. Ce sont des institutions qui non seulement façonnent les politiques et les investissements, mais apportent aussi activement des solutions sur le terrain – et leur engagement lors de l’AEW 2026 sera déterminant pour faire progresser les ambitions énergétiques de l’Afrique. »

Alors que l’AEW continue d’évoluer pour devenir une plateforme de dialogue énergétique intégré, l’inclusion de ces associations mondiales renforce son rôle de point de convergence pour les partenariats qui définiront la prochaine phase de croissance de l’Afrique. Leur participation reflète la prise de conscience croissante que l’avenir énergétique de l’Afrique ne peut être abordé par des approches fragmentées, mais par une action coordonnée entre les secteurs, les institutions et les zones géographiques.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Organismos energéticos globais reúnem-se na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 para moldar o futuro energético do continente

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

À medida que África acelera os esforços para equilibrar a segurança energética, o crescimento industrial e a descarbonização, a African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 reunirá um grupo influente de associações globais cujo trabalho está a definir cada vez mais a trajetória dos sistemas energéticos do continente. A participação de Nikki Martin, Presidente e CEO da EnerGeo Alliance; Anibor Kragha, Secretário Executivo da African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA); e Carol Koech, Vice-Presidente para África na Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), sinaliza uma mudança no sentido de uma coordenação mais profunda ao longo de toda a cadeia de valor energética – desde dados do subsolo e investimento a montante até infraestruturas a jusante e acesso universal à energia.

A EnerGeo Alliance, sob a liderança de Martin, tem vindo a promover o papel das geociências e da exploração baseada em dados na redução do risco dos investimentos nos mercados de fronteira. Os seus recentes compromissos estratégicos, incluindo parcerias que apoiam a renovação da atividade de exploração em países como a Líbia, refletem um esforço mais amplo para trazer de volta o rigor técnico e a confiança dos investidores aos setores a montante africanos. Ao reforçar a ligação entre a informação sobre o subsolo e as decisões políticas, a EnerGeo está a ajudar os governos a posicionar os seus recursos de forma mais competitiva num mercado global com restrições de capital.

Complementando este foco no upstream, a ARDA tem estado na vanguarda do reforço da resiliência do downstream africano. Na sua conferência anual de 2026, a associação sublinhou a segurança energética como uma prioridade máxima, com as refinarias de todo o continente a tomarem medidas para se protegerem da volatilidade do mercado global e das perturbações no abastecimento. Isto acontece num momento em que África continua a expandir a capacidade de refinação e a reduzir a dependência de produtos petrolíferos importados, uma mudança que é crítica não só para a soberania económica, mas também para a estabilização dos mercados energéticos domésticos. O trabalho da ARDA cruza-se cada vez mais com objetivos de industrialização mais amplos, posicionando as redes de refinação e distribuição como facilitadores-chave do crescimento.

A fazer a ponte entre estes sistemas energéticos tradicionais e as ambições de transição a longo prazo do continente está a GEAPP, onde Koech lidera a estratégia africana da organização. A aliança emergiu rapidamente como uma força central na mobilização de financiamento misto para a eletrificação em grande escala e a implantação de energias renováveis. Em 2026, a GEAPP e os seus parceiros ultrapassaram os 100 milhões de dólares em compromissos para apoiar a Missão 300 — uma iniciativa que visa ligar 300 milhões de africanos à eletricidade até 2030 —, trabalhando simultaneamente para desbloquear fluxos muito maiores de capital público e privado. Através de assistência técnica, desenvolvimento de projetos e intervenções de modelagem de mercado, a GEAPP está a ajudar a traduzir ambições de alto nível em projetos financiáveis em quase duas dezenas de países.

“A African Energy Week sempre teve como objetivo reunir os parceiros certos no momento certo”, afirmou NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da African Energy Chamber. «A participação de organizações como a EnerGeo Alliance, a ARDA e a GEAPP reflete o crescente alinhamento que estamos a observar no panorama energético global. Trata-se de instituições que não só estão a moldar políticas e investimentos, mas também a fornecer ativamente soluções no terreno – e o seu envolvimento na AEW 2026 será fundamental para fazer avançar as ambições energéticas de África.»

À medida que a AEW continua a evoluir para uma plataforma de diá. energético integrado, a inclusão destas associações globais reforça o seu papel como ponto de encontro para as parcerias que definirão a próxima fase de crescimento de África. A sua participação reflete o crescente reconhecimento de que o futuro energético de África não pode ser abordado através de abordagens fragmentadas, mas sim através de uma ação coordenada entre setores, instituições e geografias.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Global Energy Bodies Converge at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 to Shape the Continent’s Energy Future

Source: APO


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As Africa accelerates efforts to balance energy security, industrial growth and decarbonization, African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 will convene a powerful cohort of global associations whose work is increasingly defining the trajectory of the continent’s energy systems. The participation of Nikki Martin, President & CEO of EnerGeo Alliance; Anibor Kragha, Executive Secretary of the African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA); and Carol Koech, Vice President for Africa at the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), signals a shift toward deeper coordination across the full energy value chain – from subsurface data and upstream investment to downstream infrastructure and universal energy access.

EnerGeo Alliance, under Martin’s leadership, has been advancing the role of geoscience and data-driven exploration in de-risking investments across frontier markets. Its recent strategic engagements, including partnerships supporting renewed exploration activity in countries such as Libya, reflect a broader push to bring technical rigor and investor confidence back into African upstream sectors. By strengthening the link between subsurface intelligence and policy decisions, EnerGeo is helping governments position their resources more competitively in a capital-constrained global market.

Complementing this upstream focus, ARDA has been at the forefront of reinforcing Africa’s downstream resilience. At its 2026 annual conference, the association underscored energy security as a top priority, with refiners across the continent moving to shield themselves from global market volatility and supply disruptions. This comes as Africa continues to expand refining capacity and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products, a shift that is critical not only for economic sovereignty but also for stabilizing domestic energy markets. ARDA’s work increasingly intersects with broader industrialization goals, positioning refining and distribution networks as key enablers of growth.

Bridging these traditional energy systems with the continent’s long-term transition ambitions is GEAPP, where Koech leads the organization’s Africa strategy. The alliance has rapidly emerged as a central force in mobilizing blended finance for large-scale electrification and renewable deployment. In 2026, GEAPP and its partners surpassed $100 million in commitments to support Mission 300 – an initiative aimed at connecting 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030 – while simultaneously working to unlock far greater flows of public and private capital. Through technical assistance, project development and market-shaping interventions, GEAPP is helping translate high-level ambition into bankable projects across nearly two dozen countries.

“African Energy Week has always been about bringing together the right partners at the right time,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “The participation of organizations like EnerGeo Alliance, ARDA and GEAPP reflects the increasing alignment we are seeing across the global energy landscape. These are institutions that are not only shaping policy and investment, but actively delivering solutions on the ground – and their engagement at AEW 2026 will be instrumental in advancing Africa’s energy ambitions.”

As AEW continues to evolve into a platform for integrated energy dialogue, the inclusion of these global associations reinforces its role as a convening point for the partnerships that will define Africa’s next phase of growth. Their participation reflects the growing recognition that Africa’s energy future cannot be addressed through fragmented approaches, but through coordinated action across sectors, institutions and geographies.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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I remain here; I will not resign – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

I remain here; I will not resign – President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says he will not resign following last week’s Constitutional Court judgment on the Section 89 impeachment process linked to the 2020 theft at his Phala Phala farm.

Addressing the nation at the Union Buildings in Tshwane on Monday evening, the President said nothing in the Constitutional Court ruling compels him to step down from office, adding that resigning would undermine constitutional processes and efforts to renew the country’s institutions. 

“I, therefore, respectfully want to make it clear that I will not resign. To do so would be to preempt a process defined by the Constitution. To do so would be to give credence to a panel report that unfortunately has grave flaws.
 
“To do so would be to abdicate the responsibility that I assumed when I became President of the Republic. To resign now would be to give in to those who seek to reverse the renewal of our society, the rebuilding of our institutions and the prosecution of corruption,” President Ramaphosa said. 
 
The President said he remains committed to serving South Africans and completing the mandate entrusted to him.

“I fully intend to continue serving the people of South Africa and to advance their interests. There is still much work to be done,” he said.

The Constitutional Court on Friday ruled that certain aspects of the National Assembly rules governing the removal of a President from office are inconsistent with the Constitution. 

The matter stems from a report compiled by an independent panel appointed by the National Assembly in September 2022 to conduct a preliminary inquiry into allegations relating to the theft at the President’s Phala Phala farm in February 2020.

The panel found that information before it disclosed, prima facie, that the President may have committed serious misconduct and violated the Constitution.

However, in December 2022, the National Assembly voted against referring the report to an impeachment committee. 

The Constitutional Court has now set aside that vote and ordered that the panel’s report be referred to Parliament’s Impeachment Committee.

President Ramaphosa said he accepts and respects the judgment.

“I reiterate my firm commitment to the Constitution, the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law,” he said on Monday.

The President announced that he will seek a judicial review of the independent panel’s report, saying he believes it contains “grave flaws”.

“On the basis of advice from my legal team and as envisaged by the Constitutional Court when it said ‘unless and until the report is set aside on review’, I have therefore decided to proceed to take the independent panel’s report on review on an expeditious basis. 

“I do so not out of disrespect for Parliament or its processes, but to affirm the need for such findings to be correct in law and in fact, especially where Parliament’s work would be based on and informed by a report I believe is flawed,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President maintained that he has not committed any wrongdoing and reiterated that he has cooperated with all investigations into the matter. 

“Since a criminal complaint was laid against me in June 2022, I have consistently maintained that I have not stolen public money, committed any crime nor violated my oath of office. 

“From the beginning, I said that I would cooperate with all institutions that are mandated to deal with these types of matters,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa stressed that the Constitutional Court judgment did not make any findings regarding his conduct.

“The Constitutional Court made no finding of any kind regarding my alleged conduct. The Court made no finding on whether there was prima facie evidence of misconduct, nor if the alleged conduct, if established, justifies impeachment and the removal of the President,” the President said. 

He said resigning now would derail efforts aimed at rebuilding institutions, fighting corruption and advancing economic recovery.

“To resign now would be to give in to those who seek to reverse the renewal of our society, the rebuilding of our institutions and the prosecution of corruption,” he said.

The President reflected on progress made since taking office eight years ago, including implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission, recovering stolen funds and intensifying the fight against organised crime and corruption.

“We are implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission and those responsible for wrongdoing against our people are being dealt with. 

“Through the Madlanga Commission process, we are confronting corruption and criminality in our law enforcement and security services,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa said despite ongoing challenges facing the country, he remains hopeful about South Africa’s future.

“Guided by the rule of law and the principle of accountability, I intend to fulfil and complete the mandate that you, the people, have given me,” he said.

The President vowed that he will continue to do everything within his means to advance the rebuilding of the economy, the restoration of institutions and the renewal of the society. 
 
He further emphasised that he would do everything in his power to strengthen the institutions that are responsible for safeguarding the country’s democracy and upholding the rule of law so that they may never again be abused, co-opted or repurposed to serve criminal interests.

“I will remain in your service and will continue to act in your interests and in the interests of our diverse and remarkable nation. 

“I am confident that together as a nation we will strive, we will progress and we will overcome our challenges and difficulties. I remain here and I am not resigning. – SAnews.gov.za

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Junior Achievement (JA) Africa and ExxonMobil Foundation Launch Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) Africa 2.0 to Equip the Next Generation of African Innovators

Source: APO

JA (Junior Achievement) Africa (www.JA-Africa.org), with support from the ExxonMobil Foundation, announces the launch of the 2026 ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Program, an initiative designed to equip young Africans with critical science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) and artificial intelligence (AI) skills.

The program builds on a successful partnership that has already reached more than 10,000 young people across Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, and Nigeria. The 2026 edition, dubbed STEM Africa 2.0, is an initiative that integrates AI learning pathways and aims to equip 4,000 additional students aged 14–17 with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

The launch comes at a pivotal moment for Africa, where the youth population continues to grow rapidly, yet access to STEM and digital skills remains limited. By combining hands-on learning, mentorship from industry professionals, and real-world problem-solving, the program positions young people to participate meaningfully in emerging sectors such as energy, sustainability, and digital innovation.

Through a structured, four-phase learning experience, participants engage in STEM and AI quizzes, zonal competitions, national innovation camps, and a final continental showcase at Africa Energy Week Conference. These experiences move beyond classroom theory, enabling students to develop practical solutions to real-world challenges while building confidence, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.

“The future of Africa will be shaped by the ideas, ingenuity, and leadership of its young people,” said Simi Nwogugu, President and CEO of JA Africa. “Through STEM Africa 2.0, we are not only strengthening STEM competencies but also opening pathways into artificial intelligence and innovation. This is about ensuring that young people across the continent are prepared to lead, create, and solve problems that matter, both locally and globally.”

Alvin Abraham, President of the ExxonMobil Foundation, added: “We believe that investing in young people is one of the most powerful ways to drive long-term economic growth and resilience. By supporting STEM Africa 2.0, we are helping to bridge the skills gap and enabling young people to engage with emerging technologies that will define the future of work.”

The significance of the 2026 launch lies in its forward-looking approach. By integrating AI literacy into secondary school STEM education, the program directly addresses global workforce trends while ensuring young Africans are not left behind. It also strengthens the connection between education and employability, exposing participants to career pathways in high-growth sectors and building a pipeline of future innovators.

In addition to technical skills, the program emphasizes inclusion, ensuring participation from underserved communities and promoting gender balance across all activities. A strong monitoring and evaluation framework will track learning outcomes, behavioral shifts, and long-term progression into STEM-related pathways.

Young people, educators, and partners interested in participating or learning more about the ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Program can visit ExxonMobilSTEMsAfrica.org.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Junior Achievement (JA) Africa.

Media Contacts:
Ellen Ukpi
Director, Marketing & Communications
JA Africa

About JA Africa:
JA Africa is one of Africa’s largest youth-serving nonprofits, equipping young people with the skillset and mindset to succeed in a global economy. Through immersive learning experiences in entrepreneurship, work readiness, and capabilities, JA Africa reaches more than 1.6 million young Africans annually, preparing them to build thriving communities and sustainable futures.

www.JA-Africa.org

About the ExxonMobil Foundation:
The ExxonMobil Foundation is the primary philanthropic arm of ExxonMobil, supporting initiatives that advance education, economic opportunity, and community development worldwide. Through strategic partnerships, the Foundation invests in programs that equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to drive long-term societal progress and innovation.

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A Junior Architecture (JA) África e a Fundação ExxonMobil lançam o Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática (STEM) África 2.0 para preparar a próxima geração de inovadores africanos

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

A JA (Junior Achievement) África (www.JA-Africa.org), com o apoio da Fundação ExxonMobil, anuncia o lançamento do Programa STEM África 2026, uma iniciativa concebida para dotar os jovens africanos de competências essenciais nas áreas da ciência, tecnologia, engenharia e matemática (STEM) e da inteligência artificial (IA).

O programa baseia-se numa parceria de sucesso que já alcançou mais de 10 000 jovens em Angola, Moçambique, Namíbia e Nigéria. A edição de 2026, denominada STEM Africa 2.0, integra oportunidades de aprendizagem em IA e visa dotar mais 4000 estudantes com idades entre os 14 e os 17 anos das competências necessárias para prosperar numa economia digital em rápida evolução.

O lançamento surge num momento crucial para África, onde a população jovem continua a crescer rapidamente, mas o acesso às competências em STEM e digitais permanece limitado. Ao combinar aprendizagem prática, orientação por profissionais do sector e resolução de problemas do mundo real, o programa prepara os jovens para participarem de forma significativa em sectores emergentes, como a energia, a sustentabilidade e a inovação digital.

Através de uma experiência de aprendizagem estruturada em quatro fases, os participantes participam em questionários sobre STEM e IA, competições regionais, campos nacionais de inovação e uma apresentação final na Conferência African Energy Week, na Cidade do Cabo, África do Sul. Estas experiências vão além da teoria da sala de aula, permitindo aos estudantes desenvolver soluções práticas para desafios do mundo real, ao mesmo tempo que reforçam a confiança, a colaboração e as competências de pensamento crítico.

«O futuro de África será moldado pelas ideias, engenho e liderança dos seus jovens», afirmou Simi Nwogugu, Presidente e CEO da JA Africa. «Através do STEM Africa 2.0, não estamos apenas a reforçar as competências em STEM, mas também a abrir caminhos para a inteligência artificial e a inovação. Trata-se de garantir que os jovens de todo o continente estejam preparados para liderar, criar e resolver problemas que importam, tanto a nível local como global.»

Alvin Abraham, presidente da Fundação ExxonMobil, acrescentou: «Acreditamos que investir nos jovens é uma das formas mais poderosas de impulsionar o crescimento económico e a resiliência a longo prazo. Ao apoiar o STEM Africa 2.0, estamos a ajudar a colmatar o défice de competências e a permitir que os jovens se envolvam com tecnologias emergentes que irão definir o futuro do trabalho.»

A importância do lançamento em 2026 reside na sua abordagem voltada para o futuro. Ao integrar a literacia em IA no ensino secundário de STEM, o programa aborda diretamente as tendências globais da força de trabalho, garantindo ao mesmo tempo que os jovens africanos não fiquem para trás. Também reforça a ligação entre educação e empregabilidade, expondo os participantes a percursos profissionais em sectores de elevado crescimento e criando uma reserva de futuros inovadores.

Para além das competências técnicas, o programa enfatiza a inclusão, garantindo a participação de comunidades carenciadas e promovendo o equilíbrio de género em todas as atividades. Um sólido quadro de monitorização e avaliação acompanhará os resultados de aprendizagem, as mudanças comportamentais e a progressão a longo prazo para percursos relacionados com as STEM.

Os jovens, educadores e parceiros interessados em participar ou em saber mais sobre o Programa STEM África da Fundação ExxonMobil podem visitar ExxonMobilSTEMsAfrica.org.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Junior Achievement (JA) Africa.

Contactos para a imprensa:
Ellen Ukpi
Diretora, Marketing e Comunicação
JA África

Sobre a JA Africa:
A JA África é uma das maiores organizações sem fins lucrativos de África dedicadas aos jovens, que dota os jovens das competências e da mentalidade necessárias para terem sucesso numa economia global. Através de experiências de aprendizagem imersivas em empreendedorismo, preparação para o trabalho e competências, a JA África chega a mais de 1,6 milhões de jovens africanos anualmente, preparando-os para construir comunidades prósperas e um futuro sustentável.

www.JA-Africa.org

Sobre a Fundação ExxonMobil:
A Fundação ExxonMobil é o principal braço filantrópico da ExxonMobil, apoiando iniciativas que promovem a educação, as oportunidades económicas e o desenvolvimento comunitário em todo o mundo. Através de parcerias estratégicas, a Fundação investe em programas que dotam os indivíduos das competências e dos conhecimentos necessários para impulsionar o progresso social e a inovação a longo prazo.

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej Champions Girl Education as the Foundation of Women Empowerment

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany together with First Ladies of Africa and Asia who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”, champions Girl Education as the Foundation of Women Empowerment, through their impactful and transformative development programs, reaffirming over 14 years of their sustained commitment and legacy in empowering women and girls.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and One of the Most Influential African and African Women for Seven Consecutive Years (2019 – 2025) expressed, “At Merck Foundation, empowering women and girls is embedded in everything we do. It shapes our vision and guides our programs. For the past 14 years, together with my dear sisters, and our Ambassadors, the First Ladies of Africa and Asia, we have been empowering girls and women through our programs including ‘More Than a Mother’, ‘Merck Foundation Scholarships Program’, ‘Educating Linda’, and ‘STEM Program’.”

“Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education, health, and change of mindset.

Through their “Scholarships program”, Merck Foundation is transforming the patient care landscape across Africa, Asia and beyond, having provided more than 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties to date.

“I am proud that out of the 2600+ scholarships provided across 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, about 1290 scholarships, that is nearly 50% have been provided to women medical graduates, empowering them to become future healthcare experts and leaders.

Also, I am happy to share that we have provided over 800 scholarships for young healthcare providers, dedicated to advancing women’s health by strengthening reproductive & sexual health, and fertility care capacity.”

Merck Foundation CEO strongly believes that Education is one of the most critical areas of women empowerment.

“As a part of our Educating Linda program, together with my dear sisters, the First Ladies of Africa, we have year to date provided more than 1400 annual scholarships to deserving yet underprivileged African schoolgirls from 21 countries, enabling them to complete their education and reach their full potential,” shared Dr. Kelej.

Merck Foundation also actively empowers women in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards that recognize and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, fostering research excellence.

“Our goal is to empower women and young African researchers, enhance their research capacity, and promote their contributions to STEM,” emphasized Dr. Kelej.

Moreover, Merck Foundation in partnership with First ladies of Africa and Asia announces annual Awards of Media, Song, Film and Fashion to raise awareness about women empowerment, supporting girl education and related themes like breaking infertility stigma, ending female genital mutilation & child marriage, stopping gender-based violence.

Merck Foundation is also raising awareness about the importance of supporting girls’ education through a range of creative initiatives, including inspiring children’s storybooks, animation films, awareness songs, and dedicated episodes on this theme through their Our Africa by Merck Foundation TV program.

Watch episodes of Our Africa, focusing on Supporting Girl Education:

Episode 2: https://apo-opa.co/48Rj5Od

Episode 11: https://apo-opa.co/42sSrYk

Episode 14: https://apo-opa.co/3Rwwoh0

Read Educating Linda Storybook here: https://apo-opa.co/4ff8b8R

Watch Merck Foundation Animation Films on supporting girl education:

Listen to Merck Foundation songs to support women empowerment and girl education:

  1. Watch, share & subscribe “Girls Can” song here, sing by Cwesi Oteng from Ghana and Irene Logan from Liberia: https://apo-opa.co/4wF84Kj
  2. Watch, share & subscribe the “Like Them” song here, sung by Kenneth, a famous singer from Uganda: https://apo-opa.co/4u3CYtQ
  3. Watch, share & subscribe “Take me to School” song here, sung by Wezi, Afro-soul singer from Zambia, to support girls’ education: https://apo-opa.co/4wlF0Hl
  4. Watch share & subscribe “Tu Podes Sim” Portuguese song, which means “Yes, You Can” in English by Blaze and Tamyris Moiane, singers from Mozambique in English here: https://apo-opa.co/4u4foNP 
  5. Watch, share & subscribe “ABC, 123” by Sean K from Namibia song here: https://apo-opa.co/4dzr9FY
  6. Watch, share & subscribe “Brighter day” song by Sean K and Cwesi Oteng from Namibia and Ghana respectively: https://apo-opa.co/4d3mIDb
  7. Watch and share “Superwoman Song” by singers Cwezi and Adina from Ghana here: https://apo-opa.co/42wrPFU

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

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3PAELHQ
X: http://apo-opa.co/4tutw1F
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4tsDEYK
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/43565Ry
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4eAPWKQ
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4d3PL9R
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4umSIIR

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 (http://apo-opa.co/3PAELHQ), X (http://apo-opa.co/4tutw1F), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/43565Ry), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4tsDEYK), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4eAPWKQ) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4d3PL9R).

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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