Category: MIL-OSI

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World Social Summit/ UNGA President: Social Development and Social Inclusion are Fundamental to Building Strong Societies

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 06, 2025

Social development and social inclusion are fundamental to building strong and stable societies, said HE President of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly Annalena Baerbock, while emphasizing that development is not charity but rather a wise investment in peace, security, and human rights.

In her remarks at the closing press conference of the Second World Summit for Social Development, hosted by Doha, Her Excellency expressed her gratitude to the State of Qatar, its government and people, for the successful hosting of the event and its continued support for international dialogue on development and peace issues.

Progress in social development over the past decades has been remarkable but uneven. Millions of children around the world still go to bed hungry, young people are without education, and women and men struggle to find work amidst limited opportunities, she added.

The crises the world is experiencing today, including the food crisis, are not solely due to a lack of resources, but also to conflicts, inequalities, and political failures, she said, calling for addressing the root structural causes of poverty and strengthening a global financial system that is appropriate for the challenges of the 21st century, alleviates debt burdens, and supports innovation.

The President of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly noted that peace and security are essential elements in combating poverty and hunger, pointing out that the real challenge lies not in a lack of funds, but in how to invest them effectively.

She warned that the climate crisis poses one of the greatest obstacles to achieving social development, emphasizing that social justice and peace cannot be achieved without addressing climate change.

She added that this year’s conference marked a shift from discussion to the practical implementation of proven solutions, calling for concerted efforts from governments, civil society, and the business sector to implement effective policies capable of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

She stated that achieving gender equality and empowering women are essential prerequisites for achieving social justice and lasting peace, noting the importance of women’s representation in decision-making positions, whether in politics or in the field of modern technology.

In closing, HE Baerbock affirmed that the conclusion of the Second World Summit for Social Development does not represent an end, but rather a new beginning for collective action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

For her part, HE Deputy Secretary-General of the UN Amina Mohammed emphasized that the sessions and panel discussions held throughout the Second World Summit for Social Development focused on exploring the requirements for rebuilding trust, strengthening social protection, expanding access to education and health systems, and supporting decent work and a new social contract.

In her remarks at the summit’s closing press conference, she said that people are waiting for practical solutions that embody the concept of social justice, which is achieved through tangible results on the ground, noting that the Doha Political Declaration embodies the spirit to which people aspire and represents a commitment to placing human beings at the heart of sustainable development.

HE UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the Doha Political Declaration as a booster shot for development and a plan for humanity, she said, highlighting the commencement of efforts to accelerate the fight against poverty and inequality, and to provide real jobs and fair future opportunities that place all individuals on an equal footing.

She commended the significant and supportive efforts made by the State of Qatar throughout the conference, and praised the important role of the representatives of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Kingdom of Belgium to the UN, who were tasked with leading and facilitating the intergovernmental negotiations on the Doha Political Declaration.

The Deputy Secretary-General of the UN stressed the importance of persevering in implementation and building upon the achievements made in Doha during the conference. 

For her part, HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani said: “The Second World Summit for Social Development has been truly historic, not only because it gathered leaders and policy-makers from across the world here in Doha, but because it renewed global commitment to placing people, families, and communities at the center of sustainable development.”

“Over 40 head of states and governments and over 230 ministers and senior officials and 8,000 participants overall have taken part in this summit in person,” Her Excellency added

“This summit, the largest of its kind in three decades, brought together as well heads of international organizations, youth, civil society, academia, the business sector, and delegates from around the world.”

HE the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations indicated that: “Over 250 side events known as solution sessions took place. Organized to promote dialogue, partnerships and practical solutions for advancing social development.”

“Throughout the summit, the State of Qatar showcased many initiatives and policies that reflect its national commitments, making remarkable strides in strengthening the foundation of the social fabric.”

Her Excellency pointed out that “Through comprehensive social protection systems, family oriented policies, and empowerment programs, the government of the State of Qatar, through its different ministries and bodies – in particular, the Ministry of Social Development and Family – continues to ensure that women, youth, persons with disabilities, and older persons have access to opportunities, services and support.”

“Beyond our borders, the State of Qatar’s efforts continues through our international partnerships, notably via the Qatar Fund for Development and Education Above All Foundation, which extend support to millions around the world through education, health, and livelihood programs.”

Her Excellency said: “These initiatives reflect Qatar’s conviction that investing in people is the most sustainable investment a nation can make.”

“At the heart of the summit was the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration on Social Development. This Political Declaration reflects a collective commitment to reinvigorate multilateralism and accelerate social development that leaves no one behind. It renews the world determination to strengthen efforts in poverty eradication, decent work, social inclusion, and universal social protection while advancing the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. It calls for universal gender responsive social protection, equitable access to health and education. It also reaffirms the link between social development, peace and security, recognizing that sustainable progress is one underpinned the others. Among its key priorities is the commitment to advance innovative solutions and inclusive international cooperation to achieve social development for all, particularly for developing countries,” Her Excellency said.

HE the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations said: “As we conclude this historic summit today, the State of Qatar believes the next steps must focus on three important priorities: Turning the commitments made here into actions by ensuring that social development remains at the top of national and international agendas. Building strong international cooperation to share knowledge, mobilize financing and support countries most in need for assistance. Leveraging innovation and digital transformation to make social services more accessible, efficient and equitable for all.”

Concluding her remarks, Her Excellency said: “The outcomes of this summit, including the Doha Political Declaration, provides a strong foundation for a new era of global solidarity. But what matters most now is the implementation of the political declaration. Qatar remains fully committed to working with all partners to carry forward the spirit of this gathering to ensure that progress on social development continues long after the summit has ended.”

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African Union’s African Inclusive Markets Excellence Centre (AIMEC) Unlocks Strategic Planning Workshop to Solidify Operational Framework

Source: APO


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The African Inclusive Markets Excellence Centre (AIMEC) successfully convened its inaugural Strategic Planning Workshop in Tunis, Tunisia, from 28 to 30 October 2025. The pivotal three-day meeting solidified the Centre’s operational framework and charted a clear roadmap for its activities, positioning it as a key driver of inclusive and sustainable economic growth in line with Agenda 2063 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

AIMEC is an initiative of the African Union Commission (AUC), hosted by Tunisia, aimed at fostering inclusive economic development across the continent. It supports AU member states in designing policies that promote equitable access to market opportunities, especially for marginalized communities.

The workshop was opened by Ambassador Dr. Youssef ElKordofani, the Executive Director of AIMEC and H.E. Mr. Samir Abid, Minister of Trade and Export Development of Tunisia. The meeting also brought together high-level stakeholders, including the AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Industry and Mining, H.E. Ms. Francisca Belobe (participated virtually), the President of the African Business Council Dr. Amany Omar Asfour, the Regional Director of GIZ for Tunisia and Libya, and representatives from regional organisations, international partners, and the African private sector.

The meeting successfully delivered on its core objectives, culminating in the adoption of AIMEC’s Strategic Framework for the period 2025–2027, featuring a detailed implementation roadmap for initial initiatives. This framework is designed around AIMEC’s four key objectives: Knowledge Leadership, Policy Innovation, Capacity Building, and Scaling Solutions.

Discussions centered on the Centre’s core mandate to foster inclusive markets and businesses, particularly in empowering women, youth, and vulnerable groups across the continent. Participants showcased best practices and successful experiences, emphasizing the need to integrate inclusive market and business projects into existing regional economic integration efforts.

The workshop concluded with assigned responsibilities and timelines for immediate next steps, including initial staffing and operational setup, ensuring the rapid commencement of the Centre’s work. The event garnered extensive national media coverage in Tunisia, underscoring its importance in advancing African cooperation and solidifying Tunisia’s role as a regional hub for continental initiatives.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

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Ethiopia: Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) joins high-level panel on African-led peace and security initiatives in Addis Ababa

Source: APO


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The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, joined other distinguished leaders for a high-level discussion at the Africa Rising Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Thursday.

The panel, themed “Strengthening African-led Peace and Security Initiatives,” convened leaders to explore how African institutions and regional mechanisms can more effectively respond to the continent’s peace and security challenges.

In his remarks, Ambassador Diene said durable solutions must be rooted in African ownership and leadership, in line with the African Union’s vision of “African solutions to African problems”.

He emphasised the importance of deepened partnerships and sustained collaboration among African governments, regional bodies, and international partners in mobilising funding to sustain efforts to end conflicts and consolidate peace and stability.

“Funding remains critical to sustaining AUSSOM’s peace efforts in Somalia,” Ambassador Diene said, adding that locally-led solutions have lasting impact on peace efforts.

“Somali-led dialogue and reconciliation offer the best way forward, even as we continue efforts to degrade and defeat Al-Shabaab. The ongoing reflection on how Africa and the African Union can do more and better in championing African-led solutions is vital for lasting peace.”

Other panelists included Ambassador Liberata Mulamula, the African Union Special Envoy for Women, Peace and Security, and Ambassador El-Ghassim Wane, former Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General and Head of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), who emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration among African countries to ensure peace and security.

Ambassador Mulamula highlighted the critical importance of conflict prevention, urging African countries to prioritise early dialogue and proactive engagement rather than waiting for crises to escalate.

“My call is that we need to invest more in conflict prevention. Prevention works if you invest in prevention measures. Use what is existing and make it work,” said Ambassador Mulamula, who also underscored the significant and growing roles women and youth continue to play in peace processes across the continent, calling for their full inclusion as essential actors in peacebuilding. “Peacekeeping works best when politically grounded, locally owned and contextually adapted.”

Ambassador Diene later followed proceedings of an expert session that further examined ongoing African peace initiatives, including how the AU and regional organisations can strengthen their coordination in conflict resolution and post-conflict recovery.

The Africa Rising Conference is convened by Chatham House and its partner Amani Africa, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The annual gathering provides a platform for dialogue among African and global leaders on the continent’s peace, governance, and development agenda.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

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African Excellence Centre for Inclusive Markets (AIMEC) Executive Director Meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad of the Republic of Tunisia

Source: APO


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Mr. Mohamed Ali Nafti, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, received Ambassador Youssef Ahmed El Kordafani, Executive Director of the African Excellence Centre for Inclusive Markets (AIMEC), at the Ministry’s headquarters on October 27, 2025.

This meeting marked the commencement of the Institution’s activities in Tunisia, following a decision issued by the African Union.

The Minister reiterated Tunisia’s pride in its African identity and its active contribution to joint African action. He emphasized Tunisia’s commitment to hosting and providing full support to this emerging African institution, aligning with its strategic choice to establish strong partnerships with African Union member States and prioritize deepened ties with African regional institutions, thereby embodying the goals of the Africa 2063 Agenda.

He affirmed support for the Centre’s presence in Tunisia, characterizing it as a gain for the African continent due to its crucial role in promoting intra-African trade, developing the private sector, and advancing African regional integration. The Minister further expressed his determination to continue providing all necessary facilities for the Centre to commence its work, implement its activities and programs, and ensure suitable conditions for this new body to become a centre of excellence for the benefit of African Union member States.

For his part, the Executive Director Ambassador Youssef Ahmed El Kordafani expressed his thanks for the cooperation received from various Tunisian authorities in establishing the Centre and launching its activities. He stated that selecting Tunisia to host the institution’s headquarters was a sound choice, citing its distinguished geographical location and highly qualified human resources.

The meeting reviewed the Centre’s various mandates and the range of activities, programs, and projects it plans to undertake from its base in Tunisia to achieve its objectives across the continent. It also noted the readiness of several financial organizations to fund the Centre’s programs and support its activities, which will contribute to enhancing economic integration among African nations in service of the continent’s development goals.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

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La Professional Fighters League s’apprête à marquer l’histoire au Bénin le 20 décembre prochain

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Professional Fighters League (PFL) organise la plus grande soirée de MMA africain à Cotonou, au Bénin, le 20 décembre prochain, avec les Finales de la PFL Africa, où les meilleurs combattants du continent s’affronteront pour la gloire et le titre. L’événement sera diffusé à travers toute l’Afrique francophone sur CANAL+, permettant aux téléspectateurs de vivre cette soirée historique.

Au programme de cette nuit exceptionnelle : quatre ceintures de champion PFL Africa seront attribuées dans les catégories Poids lourds, Poids welter, Poids plume et Poids coq. Chaque vainqueur de division remportera un grand prix de 100 000 Dollars Américains, représentant l’une des plus importantes récompenses financières pour un athlète professionnel en Afrique subsaharienne, et obtiendra le titre de Champion du Tournoi inaugural de la PFL Africa, ouvrant ainsi la voie vers l’écosystème mondial de la PFL.

Les Finales se tiendront au sein du Dôme du Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa, le 20 décembre, lors d’un événement VIP retransmis en direct, accompagné de grandes soirées de visionnage “watch party” à travers Cotonou, afin que les fans du continent entier puissent vivre cette soirée historique. Le show sera diffusé dans plus de 100 pays, mettant en valeur la culture, le littoral et l’hospitalité du Bénin auprès de millions de téléspectateurs à travers le monde.

Cet événement majeur est le fruit d’une collaboration entre le Ministère du Tourisme, de la Culture et des Arts, à travers Bénin Tourisme, le Ministère des Sports et la Fondation EYA, fondée par Lionel Talon. Ce partenariat visionnaire allie sport, culture et impact social. Le Ministère du Tourisme, de la Culture et des Arts, à travers Bénin Tourisme, positionne les Finales comme une vitrine nationale de la créativité, de l’excellence culturelle et de l’hospitalité béninoise. Le Ministère des Sports met en avant l’engagement croissant du Bénin envers la jeunesse, le développement sportif et le rayonnement international. Quant à la Fondation EYA, elle poursuit sa mission d’autonomiser la nouvelle génération africaine à travers des initiatives qui associent sport, culture et progrès social.

Cette collaboration consacre le Bénin comme une destination pionnière du divertissement sportif et culturel de classe mondiale, incarnant une vision d’avenir où le sport devient un moteur d’unité, de fierté et de croissance économique.

Cet évènement dépasse le simple cadre de la compétition. Aux côtés de la Fondation EYA, la PFL Africa organisera des programmes communautaires et des activités culturelles tout au long de la semaine précédant les combats, afin que les Finales laissent un héritage social et culturel durable. À travers le sport et la solidarité, le Bénin et la PFL célèbrent la force, la créativité et l’unité de l’Afrique sur la scène mondiale.

Les Finales de la PFL Africa 2025 marquent l’aboutissement d’une saison inaugurale révolutionnaire, qui a démarré par des événements historiques à Cape Town, Johannesburg et Kigali, avant de connaître son apogée au Bénin pour la grande finale. Du Maghreb à l’Afrique australe, les meilleurs combattants se retrouveront désormais à Cotonou pour écrire l’histoire du sport africain sous la bannière de la PFL Africa.

“Les Finales de la PFL Africa au Bénin représentent un moment décisif pour le sport sur le continent et pour la Professional Fighters League à l’échelle mondiale,” a déclaré John MARTIN, PDG de la Professional Fighters League. “Cet événement est bien plus qu’un championnat : c’est une célébration de l’excellence sportive africaine, de la force culturelle et de l’influence mondiale du continent. Aux côtés de nos partenaires au Bénin et de la Fondation EYA, nous bâtissons une plateforme qui unit sport, communauté et culture, tout en mettant en lumière le talent et l’esprit exceptionnels de l’Afrique auprès du monde entier.”

La plus grande soirée de la PFL Africa débarque au Bénin et sera diffusée dans toute l’Afrique francophone sur CANAL+

Quatre ceintures de champion seront en jeu lors des Finales de la PFL Africa, qui couronneront les tout premiers champions africains de MMA à Cotonou

Présenté en partenariat avec la Fondation EYA pour inspirer et mettre en avant le Bénin et ses populations

Lionel TALON, fondateur de la Fondation EYA, a déclaré : “À EYA, nous croyons à l’importance d’offrir à la jeunesse des modèles auxquels elle peut s’identifier. Des personnes qui leur ressemblent, dont les histoires résonnent avec les leurs, issues du même environnement. En écoutant les récits des athlètes de la PFL Africa et en suivant leur parcours venant de leurs pays respectifs et profitant de l’opportunité offerte par la PFL, nous avons rejoint ce partenariat avec enthousiasme et c’est un honneur d’accueillir les premières finales de la PFL Africa au Bénin. Nous espérons que cet événement inaugural plantera les graines d’un partenariat fort pour développer davantage le MMA au Bénin et en Afrique en général. Notre objectif est de mettre en lumière de jeunes Africains capables de transformer leurs difficultés en inspiration, leurs frustrations en discipline, et leurs espoirs en stabilité financière pour eux-mêmes et leurs proches.”

Benoît DATO, Ministre des Sports du Bénin, a déclaré : “La République du Bénin est honorée d’accueillir les Finales de la PFL Africa, un événement qui met en valeur la force croissante du sport africain et reflète notre ambition d’en faire une source de fierté et un levier de développement.”

Sindé CHEKETE, Directeur Général de Bénin Tourisme, a ajouté : “Avec la PFL Africa, nous construisons un pont entre sport, culture et influence mondiale. Ce championnat renforce la position du Bénin comme nouvelle destination touristique pour les voyageurs en quête d’authenticité, d’énergie et d’expériences inoubliables. Le Bénin devient la porte d’entrée des grands événements internationaux en Afrique, à la croisée entre innovation et patrimoine, où le monde vient ressentir quelque chose d’extraordinaire.”

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

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Koeberg Unit 2 operating life extended

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) has approved a 20-year licence extension for Eskom’s Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 2.

The extension ensures that the unit will continue to operate until 9 November 2045.

“The approval marks a significant step in strengthening South Africa’s long-term energy security and reflects Eskom’s commitment to maintaining world-class nuclear safety standards,” Eskom said.

According to Eskom, the unit contributes some 946MW to the grid and has been operating at an Energy Availability of 100% for 241 consecutive days this year.

“This consistent performance underscores the station’s critical role in supporting South Africa’s electricity supply. 

“The licence extension follows the successful completion of an extensive refurbishment and life-extension programme, which included the replacement of three steam generators, thorough safety inspections, and refuelling activities to ensure the unit’s continued safe and efficient operation,” the power utility said.

Koeberg’s Unit 1 received its long-term operating licence in July 2024 which extended its operating life to July 2044.

“Together, both units are now part of a global cohort of more than 120 nuclear reactors that have safely extended their service beyond the original 40-year design life – affirming Koeberg’s place among the world’s most resilient and well-managed nuclear facilities.

“This achievement supports South Africa’s broader energy planning objectives, including the Integrated Resource Plan [IRP2025], which recognises the role of nuclear energy in delivering low-carbon, cost-effective, and dependable baseload power.

“By extending Koeberg’s lifespan, Eskom avoids the need for immediate large-scale infrastructure replacement, preserves critical nuclear skills, and contributes to reducing carbon emissions,” Eskom said.

Collaborative effort

Eskom Chief Nuclear Officer, Velaphi Ntuli, noted that the granting of the extension is a result of the “hard work, focus and dedication of our highly skilled and competent employees at Koeberg”, together with the support of “colleagues across the company and throughout the nuclear value chain in this country”.

“The rigorous safety assessments and regulatory requirements Eskom had to meet to achieve the long-term operation demonstrate the depth and pipeline of nuclear engineering talent available in South Africa that delivers high-quality jobs.

“We continue to maintain and develop this talent through investing in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics [STEM] education as we look to build new nuclear capacity in the coming years in line with the integrated resource plan recently published,” Ntuli said.

The power utility’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, highlighted that this is another step in Eskom’s hard work to provide energy security for South Africa through the execution of the Generation Recovery Plan.

“We have ensured that assets the nation has invested in are looked after and continue to serve the country to support socio-economic growth.

“Koeberg and Eskom’s nuclear power expertise will play a key role as we move aggressively into delivering a cleaner energy portfolio and moving from high carbon to low-carbon sources of electricity generation.

“With Koeberg providing more vital baseload power it further forms the backbone for renewable energy growth and integration into the grid to maintain grid stability and supply,” Marokane said. – SAnews.gov.za

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SA develops innovation roadmap to transform agriculture sector

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), is developing a Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Roadmap for Agriculture.  

According to the department, this strategic initiative will enhance institutional coordination, drive innovation and support the transformation of South Africa’s agrifood system into one that is inclusive, resilient and aligned with national and regional development priorities.

Agriculture remains South Africa’s most resilient sector but still faces persistent structural challenges that contribute to low productivity and slow gross domestic product (GDP) growth.  

These include high input costs, market competition, unreliable energy supply, climate change impacts such as droughts and shifting weather patterns, widespread rural poverty, food insecurity, underutilisation of arable land and household food insecurity.

“The roadmap will promote the development of new high-value crops, livestock and agro-processed products; create expanded opportunities for women and youth in rural areas. It will focus on enhancing food and nutrition security through sustainable technologies and strengthen value chains that support livelihoods and socio-economic transformation.” 

Anchored in South Africa’s STI Decadal Plan 2022-2032 and the 2019 STI White Paper, the statement said the roadmap aims to modernise productive sectors and promote inclusive growth through innovation, creativity and strategic partnerships.  

In alignment with the FAO’s Strategic Framework for 2022-2031, this initiative promotes the “Four Betters“– better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and better living conditions. 

It also directly contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (zero Hunger), 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), and 13 (climate action).

The Decadal Plan emphasises key intervention areas for the challenges facing agriculture.  

These include, but are not limited to, plant and animal improvement, digital decision-support systems, precision agriculture, biosecurity, early-warning systems, agro-processing, value chain development, skills development and farmer development support.  

“A key aim is to build an inclusive and competitive agricultural bioeconomy targeting marginalised groups, women, youth and smallholder farmers.“

The roadmap aligns with various national strategies, including the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan, led by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development. 

It also supports the Forestry Sector Master Plan and the Aquaculture Research and Technology Development Strategy, both championed by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.

In addition, it incorporates the Agricultural Bio-economy Innovation Partnership Programme from the DSTI, which aims to foster public-private innovation partnerships, create innovation opportunities, promote inclusive growth, and facilitate economic recovery.

The Directors-General of the key departments will appoint a steering committee to guide the STI roadmap, while an advisory committee will be established and constituted by members from industry, academia and implementing agencies for inclusivity.  

An inception meeting to introduce the project to key role-players was convened in September 2025.

The South African government places a high priority on STI as a driver for addressing societal challenges such as food and nutrition security, while advancing the SDGs.  

“The FAO also recognises STI as central to transforming agrifood systems to become more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable – leaving no one behind.“

The roadmap is expected to be completed by the end of September 2026. – SAnews.gov.za

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IDAC, Agrizzi enters plea deal over BOSASA corruption

Source: Government of South Africa

The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has entered into a plea and sentence agreement with former BOSASA Chief Operations Officer (COO), Angelo Agrizzi, in connection with corruption involving senior Department of Correctional Services officials.

Agrizzi pleaded guilty to corruption linked to former Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services Linda Morris Mti, former Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Patrick O’Connell Gillingham, and former member of the National Assembly Vincent George Smith, who chaired the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services.

According to an IDAC statement, Agrizzi pleaded guilty to three counts of corruption – two of those counts of Corruption allege his contravention of section 4(1)(b) of Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities [PRECCA] and the third count of Corruption alleges his contravention of section 7(1)(b) of PRECCA. 

He also pleaded guilty to one count of Money Laundering in contravention of section 4 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act [POCA].

Agrizzi was sentenced to 10 years direct imprisonment on four counts suspended for five years.

“[The sentence] is wholly suspended for five years on various conditions, including that the accused co-operates with the IDAC and provides the Investigators attached to the IDAC and the SAPS officials assigned to the investigation of this matter with affidavits, detailing the full extent of his knowledge of all matters investigated by the IDAC regarding the corruption by both public and/or private officials at BOSASA.

“The IDAC affirms that while the crimes committed were severe – representing a critical component of state capture – the agreement secures a definitive conviction and mandates Agrizzi’s continued and truthful cooperation,” the IDAC said.

The directorate added that Agrizzi’s cooperation, which includes providing affidavits in terms of Section 204 of the Criminal Procedure Act and testifying in all proceedings, is indispensable to the NPA’s ongoing investigations and future prosecutions against other high-level individuals implicated in the BOSASA corruption network.

“The agreement will also ensure that broader accountability is prioritised. Furthermore, the NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) will proceed with an opposed confiscation inquiry, in terms of POCA, to recover the proceeds of these criminal activities,” the IDAC said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Biovac unveils new lab, boosting SA’s vaccine manufacturing capacity

Source: Government of South Africa

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, has welcomed the opening of a new product development laboratory at Biovac in Cape Town, set to expand South Africa’s capacity to develop vaccines from start to finish.  

“Today marks a historic milestone for South Africa, as the opening of Biovac’s new Product Development Laboratory brings us closer to our vision of achieving full, end-to-end vaccine manufacturing capability on the African continent,” said Gina on Thursday.

Currently, vaccines in South Africa are completed and filled using active ingredients sourced from abroad. 

With the new laboratory, the country will be able to develop vaccines from start to finish, enhancing Biovac’s world-class capabilities in vaccine product development.

The new facility will also enable the production of vaccines for Africa from the early stages of product development through drug substance and drug product manufacturing and will aid in responding to the continent’s high disease burden with locally driven solutions.

This evolution into vaccine product development reflects South Africa’s growing vaccine innovation and manufacturing capacity, strengthened by public-private collaboration.

The company currently develops, formulates, fills, finishes, and distributes vaccines used in South Africa’s childhood vaccine programme.

The Deputy Minister added that this high-tech facility, equipped with advanced mRNA technology and state-of-the-art research capacity, will empower scientists to tackle the most prevalent diseases in Africa, ensuring that homegrown innovation addresses the health needs of the citizens.

“The Government of South Africa, together with partners like the Gates Foundation and the Industrial Development Corporation, remains steadfast in supporting initiatives that build robust local pharmaceutical manufacturing and enhance our preparedness for future health emergencies,” the Deputy Minister said.

She believes that the laboratory was not just a monument to technological advancement, but a beacon of hope for all Africans, a demonstration of what is possible when vision, investment and scientific excellence come together. 

“Let us celebrate this step forward, confident that today’s investment in science will yield tomorrow’s health and economic security for our country and continent.”

The new laboratory has been realised through the support of the Gates Foundation. 

The department stated that it will assist Biovac, South Africa, and the African continent, to be able to develop its own vaccines across multiple platforms and be better able to respond to future pandemics or outbreaks using advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment.

The laboratory includes infrastructure for mRNA drug substance development, screening, evaluation, and manufacturing. 

It houses a specialised suite to formulate nanoparticles that safely encapsulate and protect mRNA, along with dedicated areas for bacterial and cell culture, cell bank storage and handling of sensitive medical materials.

The African Union Commission and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) committed in 2022 to ensuring that 60% of vaccines used on the continent are manufactured in Africa by 2040. 

Currently, only about 1% are produced locally; a gap this facility seeks to help close.

Biovac CEO, Dr Morena Makhoana, said: “The establishment of our new product development laboratory gives us the capability to develop and test next-generation vaccines using the most advanced technology available, ensuring that Africa is not left behind in responding to current and future vaccine-preventable diseases.”

Gates Foundation CEO, Mark Suzman, stated that Biovac’s new product development laboratory represents a leap forward for vaccine innovation and manufacturing in Africa. 

“For millions of people across the continent, it brings the promise of faster, more reliable access to lifesaving vaccines, developed and produced in Africa, for Africa.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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W Cape urges compliance with height restrictions on Bain’s Kloof Pass

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 7, 2025

The Western Cape Mobility Department has expressed concern about heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) getting stuck on Bain’s Kloof Pass recently.

In the past two months alone, the provincial department said seven HMVs have become lodged on the pass, causing significant disruptions to traffic flow and posing safety risks to other road users.

According to the department, Bain’s Kloof Pass has a clearly marked height restriction of 3.68 meters, and heavy motor vehicles exceeding this height should not use the pass. 

However, despite the clear signage, some drivers of HMV continue to disregard the height restriction.

“Removing a stuck heavy vehicle from the pass is a complex process that, depending on the nature of the incident, can take an average of five hours to clear. In addition, there is limited or no mobile network signal on certain sections of the pass, which makes communication and incident response more challenging,” the statement read.  

The department has since appealed to all freight and logistics operators, as well as HMV drivers, to strictly adhere to the height restriction. 

HMV exceeding the 3.68-metre height limit should take alternative routes, such as R44 Wellington/Hermon Road or the Huguenot Tunnel (N1).

“We urge all heavy motor vehicle operators and drivers to respect the height restriction on Bain’s Kloof Pass. Ignoring these rules not only endangers your own safety but also the safety of other road users. It leads to unnecessary delays, costly recoveries, and disruptions to traffic,” said the Chief Director of Traffic Management, Maxine Bezuidenhout. 

“Our traffic law enforcement teams will continue monitoring the route and will take the necessary steps to ensure compliance.” – SAnews.gov.za