Category: MIL-OSI

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Daryl Willis, da Microsoft, será orador na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, numa altura em que a Inteligência Artificial (IA) está a redefinir o panorama do investimento energético em África

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Darryl Willis, vice-presidente corporativo para o setor da energia e dos recursos na Microsoft, foi confirmado como orador na conferência e exposição African Energy Week (AEW) 2026. Na qualidade de orador, Willis traz uma das vozes mais importantes a nível mundial sobre a convergência da IA, da computação em nuvem e das infraestruturas energéticas para o principal evento de investimento energético de África. A sua participação surge num momento em que a infraestrutura digital impulsionada pela IA se revela um novo catalisador para a produção de energia, a expansão da rede elétrica e o investimento energético em todo o continente.

A AEW 2026 — que decorrerá de 12 a 16 de outubro na Cidade do Cabo — constitui o maior encontro do continente no setor energético, reunindo líderes governamentais, operadores, financiadores, empresas tecnológicas e prestadores de serviços para impulsionar o investimento nos setores do petróleo, do gás e da energia em geral em África.

Ex-CEO da bp Angola, Willis lidera agora a estratégia global da Microsoft para o setor da energia e dos recursos, ajudando empresas de serviços públicos, operadores de petróleo e gás, empresas mineiras e governos a implementar tecnologias na nuvem e IA para melhorar as operações, ao mesmo tempo que apoia a infraestrutura necessária para impulsionar as economias digitais da próxima geração. A sua participação reflete o crescente reconhecimento de que o futuro energético de África será moldado não só pelo desenvolvimento de recursos, mas também pela expansão da infraestrutura digital.

Um tema central da estratégia da Microsoft é a relação entre a infraestrutura de IA e o investimento em eletricidade. Em vez de encarar os centros de dados de hiperescala como um fardo para sistemas elétricos já sobrecarregados, a empresa promove um modelo em que grandes consumidores de eletricidade, com consumo previsível, criam a certeza comercial necessária para financiar nova capacidade de produção, infraestruturas de transmissão e modernização da rede. À medida que a infraestrutura de IA se expande por toda a África, espera-se que este modelo desempenhe um papel importante na mobilização de investimento em energias renováveis, capacidade de produção estável e redes de transmissão.

Willis também tem defendido uma estratégia mais ampla centrada na construção de infraestruturas de IA em colaboração com as comunidades, melhorando a eficiência computacional através de métricas como tokens por watt e expandindo a presença da infraestrutura da Microsoft para além dos mercados tradicionais. Esta abordagem está em estreita sintonia com a crescente necessidade de África de sistemas elétricos resilientes, capazes de apoiar o desenvolvimento industrial e a expansão das economias digitais.

A Microsoft lançou recentemente a sua iniciativa «Frontier Company», no valor de 2,5 mil milhões de dólares, para ajudar as organizações a implementar a IA em grande escala através de engenharia especializada e conhecimentos setoriais. Em toda a África, a Microsoft continua a expandir a sua presença digital através de investimentos em infraestruturas na nuvem, no desenvolvimento de capacidades de IA e em centros de dados regionais, incluindo investimentos adicionais na África do Sul e grandes projetos de infraestruturas planeados noutras partes do continente.

Prevê-se que a crescente procura de eletricidade por parte dos centros de dados acelere o investimento na produção de energia renovável, em sistemas de armazenamento de energia em baterias, na energia a gás, nas infraestruturas de transmissão e no transporte de energia, criando simultaneamente novas oportunidades para produtores independentes de energia, empresas de serviços públicos e investidores em infraestruturas. À medida que os governos procuram alcançar tanto a transformação digital como a eletrificação universal, uma coordenação mais estreita entre as empresas tecnológicas e os promotores do setor energético está a abrir caminho para uma maior colaboração e investimento.

«A inteligência artificial está a criar uma categoria totalmente nova de procura de energia, e África tem uma oportunidade única de transformar essa procura em investimento a longo prazo na produção de energia, transmissão e infraestruturas digitais. Darryl Willis traz uma perspetiva rara, tanto do setor energético como do setor tecnológico global. As suas ideias ajudarão a moldar um importante debate sobre como África pode construir os sistemas energéticos resilientes necessários para impulsionar tanto o crescimento industrial como a economia da IA», afirma NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Africa – Building More Inclusive Elections: 79 National Elections Commission’s (NEC) Officials Strengthen Skills on Gender Equality and Disability Inclusion

Source: APO

“As a person with disability, I found this training very timely. Before 2024, there was no policy, so promoting disability inclusion in elections was up to the individual. Now that it is a policy, everyone must follow it.”

For George K. Dorbor, Assistant Election Magistrate in Upper Lofa County, the adoption of the National Elections Commission’s (NEC) Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Policy marked a turning point. But it was only after participating in a specialized training that the policy became something he could confidently apply in his day-to-day work.

Dorbor was among 79 NEC staff members (21 women and 58 men) from headquarters and the magistrate offices who completed the Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections (BRIDGE) workshop on Inclusive Electoral Management: Gender Equality and Disability Inclusion. The training was delivered in three cohorts in Ganta, Nimba County, and Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, between 25 March and 9 April 2026 with support from UN Women and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Liberia Electoral Support Project.

“This training was very important because it helped us better understand that gender equality and disability inclusion must be part of how NEC works. Now that the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Policy is in place, it should not remain on paper. It must guide recruitment, training, awareness, stakeholder engagement and election work at the magisterial level. Women and persons with disabilities can learn, lead and contribute when they are given the opportunity and support. The policy must be implemented, monitored and taken seriously from headquarters to the field.” George emphasized.

BRIDGE is the most comprehensive internationally recognized professional development curriculum in elections used around the world to strengthen knowledge and skills in democratic governance and electoral administration. The workshops were the first dedicated capacity-building programme delivered to NEC staff on gender and inclusion since the Commission adopted its Policy in 2024.

The initiative comes at a critical moment. Despite progress in democratic governance, women remain significantly underrepresented in Liberia’s political institutions, holding only 11 of the 103 seats in the National Legislature, which amounts to just 10.7 percent. At the same time, persons with disabilities continue to face barriers to electoral participation, both as voters and as candidates.

To address these challenges, NEC adopted its Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Policy in July 2024 with support from UN Women, UNDP, the European Union, Ireland and Sweden. The Policy commits the Commission to embedding gender equality and disability inclusion throughout the electoral cycle – from recruitment and staff deployment to voter registration, civic and voter education, polling, complaints handling and decision-making. It also promotes equal opportunities for women, reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities, accessible electoral services, improved data collection, and stronger safeguards against discrimination and harassment.

The recent workshops translated these policy commitments into greater awareness of the necessary considerations to enhance inclusive participation and practical skills for implementation.

Facilitated entirely by NEC’s own certified trainers, the sessions combined international good practice with practical exercises tailored to Liberia’s electoral context. Participants analysed real-world case studies on disability inclusion, examined the gender dimensions of electoral violence, discussed barriers limiting women’s political participation, and explored practical ways to apply the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Policy across their respective responsibilities.

Importantly, the workshops also strengthened NEC’s internal capacity to deliver workshops on this critical theme as preparations for the 2029 general elections continue.

For many participants, the training changed not only their understanding of inclusion but also how they intend to carry out their responsibilities.

Sensee A. Kromah, Assistant Election Magistrate, Robertsport, Grand Cape Mount County, NEC. Photo credit: UN Women Liberia / Tsega Gebremeskel

“This training gave me an in-depth understanding of the NEC Policy and what gender equality, equity and inclusion really mean. I learned that women with disabilities often experience multiple forms of discrimination. As an Assistant Magistrate, I recruit temporary staff, so I now understand the importance of ensuring that recruitment is gender-responsive and inclusive of persons with disabilities. When supervising civic and voter education activities, I will also ensure that women and persons with disabilities are intentionally included in outreach efforts,” stated Sensee A. Kromah, Assistant Election Magistrate for Grand Cape Mount County.

Saywa J. Kiadii, Assistant Magistrate, Cestos, Rivercess County, NEC. Photo credit: UN Women Liberia / Tsega Gebremeskel

Similarly, Saywa J. Kiadii, Assistant Magistrate for Rivercess County, reflected on how the training reshaped his perspective. “I learned that persons with disabilities must never be overlooked because discrimination has lasting psychological and social consequences. We need greater public awareness through radio and social media, so communities understand the policy. At our county offices, we must also make deliberate efforts to include persons with disabilities in recruitment and work closely with their organizations to ensure that they fully participate in elections.”

Beyond individual learning, each training cohort developed practical recommendations to support implementation of the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Policy. As a next step, NEC, UN Women and UNDP will convene a technical working session to consolidate these recommendations into a comprehensive implementation plan for consideration and approval by the NEC Board of Commissioners.

By strengthening the capacity of electoral officials to translate policy into practice, the initiative represents an important step towards building a more inclusive electoral system, one in which women, men and persons with disabilities can participate equally, both as voters and as leaders. As Liberia prepares for the 2029 elections, NEC is laying the institutional foundations for elections that are more representative, accessible and responsive to all citizens.

The Liberia Electoral Support Project supports national institutions and processes to promote a more inclusive and accountable democracy in Liberia. It is managed by UNDP and implemented in partnership with UN Women, the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD) and the National Elections Commission, with support from the European Union, the Embassy of Ireland and the Embassy of Sweden.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN Women – Africa.

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Daryl Willis, de Microsoft, interviendra lors de African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 alors que Intelligence Artificielle (IA) redéfinit le paysage des investissements énergétiques en Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Darryl Willis, vice-président corporate chargé du secteur de l’énergie et des ressources chez Microsoft, a été confirmé comme intervenant à la conférence et au salon African Energy Week (AEW) 2026. En tant qu’intervenant, M. Willis apportera à cet événement phare de l’investissement énergétique en Afrique l’une des voix les plus autorisées au monde sur la convergence entre l’IA, le cloud computing et les infrastructures énergétiques. Sa participation intervient alors que les infrastructures numériques basées sur l’IA apparaissent comme un nouveau catalyseur pour la production d’électricité, l’extension des réseaux et les investissements énergétiques à travers le continent.

L’AEW 2026 – qui se tiendra du 12 au 16 octobre au Cap – constitue le plus grand rassemblement du continent dans le domaine de l’énergie, réunissant des dirigeants gouvernementaux, des opérateurs, des financiers, des entreprises technologiques et des prestataires de services afin de favoriser les investissements dans les secteurs africains du pétrole, du gaz et de l’énergie au sens large.

Ancien PDG de bp Angola, M. Willis dirige désormais la stratégie mondiale de Microsoft pour le secteur de l’énergie et des ressources. Il aide les services publics, les opérateurs pétroliers et gaziers, les sociétés minières et les gouvernements à déployer des technologies cloud et l’IA afin d’améliorer leurs opérations, tout en soutenant les infrastructures nécessaires pour alimenter les économies numériques de nouvelle génération. Sa participation reflète la prise de conscience croissante que l’avenir énergétique de l’Afrique sera façonné non seulement par l’exploitation des ressources, mais aussi par l’expansion des infrastructures numériques.

Un thème central de la stratégie de Microsoft est la relation entre les infrastructures d’IA et les investissements dans l’électricité. Plutôt que de considérer les centres de données hyperscale comme un fardeau pour des réseaux électriques déjà sous pression, l’entreprise promeut un modèle dans lequel les grands consommateurs d’électricité, dont la demande est prévisible, créent la sécurité commerciale nécessaire pour financer de nouvelles capacités de production, des infrastructures de transport et la modernisation du réseau. À mesure que les infrastructures d’IA se développent à travers l’Afrique, ce modèle devrait jouer un rôle important dans la mobilisation d’investissements en faveur des énergies renouvelables, des capacités de production fiables et des réseaux de transport.

M. Willis a également défendu une stratégie plus large axée sur la mise en place d’infrastructures d’IA en collaboration avec les communautés, l’amélioration de l’efficacité informatique grâce à des indicateurs tels que le nombre de tokens par watt, et l’extension de l’empreinte infrastructurelle de Microsoft au-delà des marchés traditionnels. Cette approche s’inscrit parfaitement dans le besoin croissant de l’Afrique en systèmes électriques résilients, capables de soutenir le développement industriel et l’expansion des économies numériques.

Microsoft a récemment lancé son initiative « Frontier Company », dotée de 2,5 milliards de dollars, afin d’aider les organisations à déployer l’IA à grande échelle grâce à une expertise spécialisée en ingénierie et dans les secteurs d’activité. À travers l’Afrique, Microsoft continue d’étendre son empreinte numérique par le biais d’investissements dans les infrastructures cloud, le développement des capacités d’IA et les centres de données régionaux, notamment grâce à des investissements supplémentaires en Afrique du Sud et à d’importants projets d’infrastructure prévus ailleurs sur le continent.

La demande croissante en électricité des centres de données devrait accélérer les investissements dans la production d’énergie renouvelable, les systèmes de stockage d’énergie par batterie, la production d’électricité au gaz, les infrastructures de transport d’électricité et l’acheminement d’énergie, tout en créant de nouvelles opportunités pour les producteurs d’électricité indépendants, les services publics et les investisseurs dans les infrastructures. Alors que les gouvernements poursuivent à la fois la transformation numérique et l’électrification universelle, une coordination plus étroite entre les entreprises technologiques et les développeurs du secteur de l’énergie ouvre la voie à une collaboration et à des investissements accrus.

« L’intelligence artificielle crée une catégorie de demande énergétique entièrement nouvelle, et l’Afrique dispose d’une opportunité unique de transformer cette demande en investissements à long terme dans la production d’électricité, le transport d’électricité et les infrastructures numériques. Darryl Willis apporte une perspective rare, issue à la fois du secteur de l’énergie et du secteur technologique mondial. Ses analyses contribueront à façonner un débat important sur la manière dont l’Afrique peut mettre en place les systèmes énergétiques résilients nécessaires pour alimenter à la fois la croissance industrielle et l’économie de l’IA », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’African Energy Chamber.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Dr Praveena Sukhraj-Ely named DWYPD acting Director-General

Source: Government of South Africa

Dr Praveena Sukhraj-Ely named DWYPD acting Director-General

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has appointed Dr Praveena Sukhraj-Ely as the Acting Director-General of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD). 

Sukhraj-Ely, who is totally blind, is an Advocate of the High Court with extensive experience in governance, constitutional law, disability rights, Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), public administration and policy development. 

She holds a PhD in Public Policy and a Master of Arts in Political Science, awarded Cum Laude, and has built a career focused on advancing inclusive governance, democracy, and human rights. 

As the state’s representative on the Commission for Employment Equity, Sukhraj-Ely has advocated for a target of 7% employment of persons with disabilities by 2030. 

She has also represented South Africa at international platforms, including the United Nations, the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), and the International Disability Alliance, promoting disability rights.

Her public service record includes contributing to the implementation of the Domestic Violence Act, the development of the Femicide Strategy and the drafting of the Disability Access to Justice Policy.

Chikunga said the appointment signifies government’s commitment to advancing equality, dignity, and inclusive leadership.

Welcoming Sukhraj-Ely to the department, Chikunga commended her integrity, legal expertise and understanding of constitutional mandates, especially in advancing rights for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

“The appointment underscores the government’s focus on inclusive leadership and reflects efforts to promote equal representation,” the Minister said.  

Chikunga expressed full confidence in her leadership to enhance the department’s performance and promote rights and socio-economic development. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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President hails Toyota’s R10. 4bn Hilux investment

Source: Government of South Africa

President hails Toyota’s R10. 4bn Hilux investment

President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed Toyota South Africa Motors’ R10.4 billion investment in the production of the ninth-generation Hilux as a strong vote of confidence in the country’s economy, saying it demonstrates South Africa’s ability to convert investment commitments into jobs, industrial growth, and exports.

Speaking at the official line-off launch of the Toyota ninth-generation Hilux at the company’s Prospecton plant in eThekwini on Thursday, the President said the milestone represented far more than the launch of a new vehicle.

“Today is about much more than the launch of a new vehicle. It is about confidence in South Africa. It is about the enduring value of long-term investment.

“It is about the strength of South African workers, engineers, technicians, and entrepreneurs. And it is about our shared determination to build an economy that produces, innovates, exports, and creates jobs,” the President said. 

He added that the Hilux has become part of South Africa’s story over the past five decades, and although it carried one of the world’s most respected automotive brands, it was proudly regarded as a South African vehicle because it is “designed for our conditions, built by South African hands and exported from South African shores.”

As South Africa marks National Science month, the launch of Toyota’s new-generation hybrid vehicle highlights the growing role of science, technology and innovation in modern manufacturing in the country. 

The President said Toyota’s investment reflected exactly the type of investment South Africa was seeking to attract. 

“The R10.4 billion investment in the new-generation Hilux programme demonstrates precisely the type of investment that South Africa seeks to attract,” he said. 

The President said the real value of the investment was not in machinery or buildings but in the opportunities it creates for workers, suppliers, and young people entering the labour market.

“Its true value lies in the opportunities it creates. It lies in the thousands of South Africans whose livelihoods depend on this plant. It lies in the workers whose skills continue to grow. It lies in the supplier companies that have expanded their production. It lies in the young people who will find employment because businesses such as Toyota continue to invest in our economy.

“This is what inclusive industrial development looks like,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa said the launch also showed that South Africa was delivering on investment commitments made to investors.

“Today’s occasion is powerful evidence that South Africa can convert investment commitments into tangible economic outcomes. It is also a reminder of the powerful multiplier effect of industrial investment,” he said. 

He noted that about one-third of Toyota’s investment had been directed towards strengthening local supplier capacity and tooling, while suppliers themselves had invested an additional R2 billion to expand localisation.

“That is how resilient industrial ecosystems are built. That is how domestic manufacturing capabilities deepen. That is how small and medium enterprises grow. And that is how sustainable economic development is achieved,” the President said. 

Importance of SA’s automotive sector

According to the President, the automotive industry remains one of the pillars of South Africa’s industrial economy, contributing around 5% of gross domestic product, supporting more than 115,000 direct manufacturing jobs, and over half a million jobs across the value chain.

He said the government was committed to ensuring the country remained globally competitive as the automotive sector transitioned towards cleaner mobility and new technologies.

“We are strengthening incentives for component manufacturing. We are supporting battery value chain development. We are promoting research, innovation, and skills development in new-energy vehicles. Above all, we are providing policy certainty that encourages investment, localisation and long-term growth,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa also highlighted South Africa’s critical mineral resources as a strategic advantage in the global shift towards future mobility.

“If we combine these natural resources with advanced manufacturing, local beneficiation, technological innovation, and world-class automotive production, South Africa can become a leading global hub for future mobility,” he said. 

The President stressed that improving logistics remains essential to unlocking further industrial growth, welcoming improvements in freight rail and port performance.

“In the ten months to February this year, Transnet’s vehicle terminals in Durban, Gqeberha, and East London handled more than 792,000 fully built vehicles – the highest productivity levels achieved in recent years,” the President said. 

He said government will continue strengthening public-private partnerships in rail and ports to position South Africa as a globally competitive export platform.

Concluding his address, President Ramaphosa thanked Toyota South Africa Motors, government partners, organised labour, suppliers, and employees for contributing to the investment while paying tribute to the workers at the Prospecton plant.

“Every Hilux that leaves this production line carries with it your skill, your discipline, your craftsmanship, and your pride,” the President said. 

He said the new-generation Hilux should carry a broader message to the world.

“That South Africa is open for business. That South Africans can compete with the very best in the world. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

 

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Seychelles: President Meets His Excellency Tomasz Grysa During Farewell Call.

Source: APO – Report:

During a farewell call at State House this morning, President Dr Patrick Herminie received His Excellency Tomasz Grysa to express his appreciation for his dedicated service as Apostolic Nuncio to the Republic of Seychelles over the past three and a half years.

The President thanked His Excellency for his unwavering support for Seychelles, particularly in addressing one of the country’s most pressing challenges the fight against drug abuse. He emphasised that drugs remain a serious scourge and stressed the importance of continuing the collective effort to combat the problem, warning that failure to do so would have detrimental consequences for the nation.

The Ambassador further expressed his hope that the Apostolic Nuncio’s successor would explore the possibility of establishing a Farm of Hope for women, as well as an organisation dedicated to supporting families, building on the success of the Farm of Hope established in 2025.

President Herminie also congratulated His Excellency on the opening of the first Ferme de L’Espoir in 2025, noting that the initiative has strengthened Seychelles’ rehabilitation programme. Reflecting on his own experience as former Head of APDAR, the President said that the fight against drugs remains a cause that is particularly close to his heart.

The two leaders also discussed the longstanding friendship between Seychelles and the Holy See, established in 1984, and recognised the important role this partnership has played in the country’s education sector and national life.

The President expressed his gratitude to the Vatican for its support in advancing the adoption of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI). He also thanked the Catholic Church for its continued spiritual and moral support, particularly its guidance and commitment to the nation’s young people.

His Excellency Tomasz Grysa thanked the President for his support and warm cooperation throughout his mission in Seychelles, adding that he would always keep the country in his heart.

President Herminie wished His Excellency every success in his new appointment and congratulated him on the next chapter of his diplomatic service.

Also in attendance were the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Mr Barry Faure, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Government backs Team Seychelles with medal rewards ahead of Commonwealth Games

Source: APO – Report:

Team Seychelles received an official send-off at State House on Thursday with a fresh incentive to aim even higher, as President Patrick Herminie announced new government cash incentives of SCR150,000 for a Commonwealth Games gold medal, SCR100,000 for silver and SCR75,000 for bronze.

The announcement came as the President, joined by Vice President Sebastien Pillay, Minister for Youth and Sports Kalsey Belle and senior sports officials, wished the 32-member delegation every success ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

Addressing the athletes, President Herminie encouraged them to compete with determination, discipline and pride as they seek to bring home medals for Seychelles. Drawing inspiration from the country’s sporting heritage, he cited former boxing champion Rival Cadeau as an example of the resilience and excellence that have shaped Seychelles’ sporting history, urging Team Seychelles to remain focused in their preparations and throughout the competition.

Wishing the delegation every success, the President called on the athletes to raise the Seychellois flag with pride, echoing the message of the national anthem that Seychelles is an exceptional and capable nation, and expressed confidence in their ability to make the country proud.

Earlier, President of the Seychelles Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (SOCGA), Alain Alcindor, described the Commonwealth Games as a celebration of sport, friendship and unity among 74 nations and territories. He noted that Glasgow 2026 marks Seychelles’ tenth appearance at the Games since making its debut in 1990, during which the country has won three silver and four bronze medals. While acknowledging those achievements, he challenged Team Seychelles to pursue the nation’s first ever Commonwealth Games gold medal.

Mr Alcindor reminded the athletes that representing Seychelles is both a privilege and a responsibility, urging them to wear the national colours with pride, compete with courage, integrity and determination, and remember that they carry the hopes, aspirations and identity of the Seychellois people.

Minister for Youth and Sports Ms Kalsey Belle said the athletes’ journey to the Commonwealth Games extends far beyond competition, describing them as ambassadors carrying the hopes, pride and flag of Seychelles, together with the sacrifices, discipline and years of dedication that have earned them a place on the national team. She said their success should be measured not only by medals but also by the perseverance, resilience and character they demonstrate.

The Minister also linked the team’s participation to Seychelles’ 50th anniversary of Independence, saying it reflects the nation’s belief that greatness is measured not by size but by the spirit of its people. She thanked the coaches, officials, medical personnel and support staff for their commitment and encouraged the athletes to compete with courage, integrity and respect while proudly representing every Seychellois.

During the ceremony, President Herminie presented the National Flag to Team Seychelles’ flag bearer, Natasha Chetty, while Minister Belle formally presented the Commonwealth Games Baton to Adam Moncherry, who will serve as Seychelles’ King’s Baton Relay ambassador at the Games. Commemorative tokens were also presented by SOCGA President Alain Alcindor to President Herminie, Minister Belle and National Sports Council Chief Executive Officer Mario Pragassen in recognition of their support for sport and Team Seychelles.

The 32-member delegation is scheduled to depart for Glasgow on 20 July 2026, carrying with them not only the hopes of a nation but also the ambition of securing Seychelles’ first ever Commonwealth Games gold medal.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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United States Supports Tanzania’s Rapid Ebola Preparedness

Source: APO – Report:

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Today, the United States government is providing more than $1 million in new and reprogrammed funding to support the Government of Tanzania in strengthening preparedness and readiness for Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus. This support comes in response to recent Ebola outbreaks reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, reinforcing ongoing efforts to protect the health and safety of Tanzanians.

While Tanzania has not recorded any confirmed Ebola cases, the country continues to proactively intensify preparedness measures based on the national contingency plans. Given the frequent cross-border movement with neighboring countries, these actions are aimed at ensuring the country remains vigilant and well-prepared to prevent, detect, and respond to any potential Ebola threat. Immediately following the official announcement of the outbreak in the region, the Ministry of Health convened technical directors, U.S. government agencies, and international partners to coordinate preparedness efforts and align response activities nationwide. This close collaboration reflects the strong partnership between Tanzania and the United States in protecting public health and strengthening regional health security.

The United States government is providing more than $1 million (approximately 2.63 billion TZS) in new and reprogrammed funding, together with extensive technical expertise, to strengthen Ebola preparedness in both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. U.S. support focuses on reinforcing disease surveillance, laboratory systems, infection prevention and control, case management, risk communication and community engagement, preparedness at points of entry, emergency coordination, and workforce development in regions at greatest risk of cross-border transmission. These investments build on longstanding U.S.-Tanzania collaboration to strengthen health security systems capable of preventing, detecting, and responding rapidly to emerging infectious disease threats.

U.S. support will be delivered through three coordinated lines of effort: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) technical assistance to strengthen surveillance, laboratory systems, and infection prevention and control; the U.S. Department of State’s support for coordination, preparedness at points of entry, and community engagement; and Walter Reed Army Institute of Research’s (WRAIR) collaboration with TPDF to reinforce civilian-military preparedness in priority border regions.

Together, these investments bolster Tanzania’s ability to rapidly detect Ebola, safely manage suspected cases, sustain surveillance at points of entry, and respond effectively to future disease threats. Through this continued partnership, the United States and Tanzania are building stronger, more resilient health systems that protect both countries and contribute to global health security.

– on behalf of U.S. Embassy in Tanzania.

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Uganda begins countdown to end of Ebola outbreak

Source: APO

Uganda has today entered the 42-day countdown to the end of its Ebola outbreak after the last confirmed case tested negative for the virus for a second time and was discharged from care, marking an important milestone in the country’s response.

The 42-day countdown, equivalent to two maximum incubation periods for Bundibugyo virus disease, is the established phase before an outbreak can be declared over, provided no new confirmed cases are detected during this period.

Uganda declared the outbreak on 15 May 2026 and as of 16 July 2026, 20 confirmed cases and two deaths have been reported. Fifteen cases were the result of importation from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and five were locally aquired.  

“It has been two months since we declared the outbreak and we are now celebrating the discharge of the last patient. This shows that Ebola is defeatable if we adhere to measures and establish strong systems,” says Dr Chris Baryomunsi, Minister of Health in Uganda. “I thank all the teams involved, including the health workers and support staff, for the courage, resilience, professionalism and charisma, working 24 hours a day to provide care.”  

Since the outbreak was declared, the Ministry of Health in Uganda, with support from World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, has implemented an intensive response that included rapid case detection, laboratory testing, contact tracing, infection prevention and control measures, case management, risk communication and community engagement, and cross-border collaboration with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

As of 16 July 2026, all 836 contacts have been followed up, while surveillance systems were strengthened across 36 high-risk districts and at 38 points of entry. Health workers received training and essential medical equipment and supplies to safely identify, isolate and manage suspected cases, helping to limit further transmission.

WHO has supported health authorities by mobilizing around 70 technical experts into the national response, strengthening laboratory capacity, coordinating logistics, supporting surveillance and contact tracing, providing medical supplies and equipment to protect frontline health workers and working with affected communities across high-risk districts.

“This milestone reflects the dedication of Uganda’s leadership, health workers, case investigation teams, communities and partners who have worked hard to interrupt transmission,” says Dr Kasonde Mwinga, WHO Representative in Uganda. “While this is an encouraging moment, it is not the end of the response. Maintaining strong surveillance, rapid investigation of alerts and community engagement into the future will be essential to achieving and sustaining success.”

Although no new confirmed cases have been reported since 21 June 2026, health authorities continue to enhance cross-border surveillance and operational readiness across all border areas to sustain rapid detection and trigger new response operations when needed. Community members, health workers and leaders are encouraged to keep alert to Ebola, report any symptoms promptly and seek care immediately if the disease is suspected.

Although Uganda has officially begun the 42-day countdown to declaring the end of the outbreak, this remains a single, complex outbreak across international borders with shared communities. As transmission continues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, there remains a risk of additional imported cases into Uganda during the countdown period. Should this occur, the 42-day countdown would be reset to day zero. This would reflect the realities of responding to a cross-border outbreak with ongoing transmission, rather than any shortcomings in the response of either country.

As Uganda exits this initial acute phase of the emergency, the next phase will require maintaining the highest level of vigilance over a protracted timeframe, so any new cases imported from the Democratic Republic of the Congo can be quickly detected and controlled. To this end, the Ministry of Health of Uganda this week launched a new six-month plan, maintaining and strengthening existing interventions to reduce the likelihood of resurgence and limiting the potential for wider geographical spread of the outbreak from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Uganda.

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Export strategy to drive W Cape economic growth and jobs

Source: Government of South Africa

Export strategy to drive W Cape economic growth and jobs

Western Cape Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Dr Ivan Meyer, has launched the Western Cape Export Strategy 2035, positioning expanded market access as a key driver of economic growth, investment and job creation.

Speaking at the launch on Wednesday, Meyer said the strategy provides a practical roadmap for implementing the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs Strategy, which aims to build R1 trillion, and inclusive annual economic growth of between 4% and 6%.

“Growth for Jobs is our vision. The Export Strategy is our roadmap. Market access is the bridge that connects Western Cape businesses to global opportunity, investment and jobs,” Meyer said.

The MEC said the strategy recognises that the domestic market alone cannot deliver the level of economic growth required to create sustainable employment opportunities.

According to Meyer, expanding exports will enable Western Cape businesses to access new markets, improve competitiveness, drive innovation and strengthen resilience in an increasingly competitive global economy.

He said the province is already home to world-class exporters across agriculture, manufacturing, technology and services.

“The strategy seeks to expand these successes by supporting more businesses to enter export markets and helping existing exporters grow their international footprint. By 2035, the Western Cape aims to significantly increase the value of exports, grow the number of active exporters by 1 000, unlock at least 10 new export product opportunities and accelerate broader economic growth through export-led expansion,” Meyer said.

Meyer added that market access remains the central priority of the strategy.

“Market access is about opportunity. It is about ensuring that a Western Cape farmer, entrepreneur, manufacturer or service provider can successfully connect with customers around the world. When businesses gain market access, they gain the opportunity to grow. And when businesses grow, jobs follow,” the MEC said.

The strategy focuses on improving access for international markets, strengthening compliance with global standards, leveraging trade agreements, enhancing logistics and export infrastructure, and advocating for the removal of trade barriers.

The MEC also stressed the importance of collaboration between government, business and industry stakeholders.

“Government does not export; businesses export, businesses invest, businesses innovate, and businesses create jobs. Our role is to create the conditions that enable exporters to succeed,” he said.

Meyer thanked Wesgro [official Tourism, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency], provincial departments, municipalities, export councils, industry associations and exporters for contributing to the development of the strategy, and continued role in growing the provincial economy.

He said the success of the strategy will ultimately be measured by tangible outcomes rather than the publication of the document itself.

“Our success will be measured by new markets opened, new exporters supported, new investment secured and new jobs created. The Western Cape Export Strategy 2035 is a commitment to action and a commitment to building a more competitive, resilient and inclusive economy,” Meyer said.

A copy of the strategy can be downloaded at  https://www.westerncape.gov.za/edat/western-cape-export-strategy-2035. – SAnews.gov.za

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