MIL-OSI – Page 289 – MIL Africa Engine

October 28, 2025

Nigeria’s government is using digital technology to repress citizens. A researcher explains how

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Chibuzo Achinivu, Visiting Assistant Professor of Political Science, Vassar College

Digital authoritarianism is a new way governments are trying to control citizens using digital and information technology. It is a growing concern for advocacy groups and those interested in freedom and democracy. It is especially worrying for those who initially heralded digital and information technologies as liberating tools that would spread information more easily for citizens.

I have studied the rise of digital authoritarianism in Africa over the last two decades. My most recent study focused on Nigeria, and its turn to digital tools for control after the 2020 #EndSARS Movement protests.

I found that local conflict and development needs drive the Nigerian government’s demand for digital authoritarianism technologies. Foreign suppliers of these technologies are motivated by both economic gain and influence in the region.

The findings are important. Firstly, it signals that the trend of using digital spaces to control populations has reached the African continent. It also shows that the trend is facilitated by foreign actors that provide governments with the technology and expertise.

What is digital authoritarianism?

One way to understand the concept of digital authoritarianism is as a form of governance or set of actions aimed at undermining accountability. It is the use of digital technologies for this goal.

Technology is used to repress voices, keep people under surveillance, and manipulate populations for regime goals and survival.

It includes but is not limited to internet and social media shutdowns. It prioritises the use of spyware to hack and monitor people through their devices. There is mass surveillance using artificial intelligence for facial recognition, and misinformation and disinformation propaganda campaigns.

What drives it in Africa

In Africa these actions are popping up in democracies like Nigeria and in autocracies alike. Perhaps the noticeable difference between these two types of governments is the subtlety of their form of digital authoritarianism and the legal recourse when such actions are unearthed.

Both governance types make claims of national security and public safety to justify these tactics. For instance, former Nigerian information minister Lai Mohammed claimed the 2020 Twitter ban was due to “the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence”.

Autocracies are often cruder with their use of blatant tactics. They employ internet and social media shutdowns. This is often due to their unsophisticated digital authoritarianism apparatuses. Democracies often rely on more subtle surveillance and misinformation campaigns to reach their goals.

This all begs the question: what are the drivers of this trend? There are four clear ones:

regime survival/political control
security and counterterrorism
electoral competition and information manipulation
modernisation agendas (development).

On the rise

In the African context digital authoritarianism is on the rise. There’s a cohesive relationship between the foreign suppliers of the hardware, expertise and domestic demand. This demand stems from authoritarian regimes as well as regimes accessing digital systems to consolidate and modernise. There are also hybrid regimes, which are countries with a mixture democratic and authoritarian institutions.

States like China, Russia, Israel, France and the US supply both the technology and instruction or best practices to African regimes. Reasons for supply include economic gain and regional influence.

On the demand side, African regimes seek out digital authoritarianism tools mainly for development needs and for conflict resolution. Some of the largest consumers are Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Nigeria and Ghana.

The study

I found there was evidence that Nigeria’s development goals and efforts to quell conflicts drive the use of technology to repress its people. Using the example of the #EndSARS movement, social media platform shutdowns and efforts to build a firewall akin to China’s great firewall serve as evidence for this.

In the days following Twitter’s removal of a post by President Muhammadu Buhari, Twitter was banned in Nigeria. The administration cited its use to further unrest, instability, and secessionist movements. There were claims that this step was taken to maintain internet sovereignty.

However, the ban also undermined social movements that were successfully holding the government accountable. Following domestic and international outcry over the ban, there were reports that the Nigerian government had approached China. The purpose of the contact was to replicate their “Great Firewall” in Nigeria’s internet control apparatus. (The focus of China’s project is to monitor and censor what can and cannot be seen through an online network in China.) This would allow the state to manage access to certain cites and block unwanted content from reaching Nigerians.

On the supply side, China’s economic commitments to the country and concerted efforts to cultivate certain norms in the country and region offer insights into the motivations for supply in this case and the broader continent.

Again, regime type dictates just how these technologies will be used. Interviews conducted with permanent secretaries and ministers of Nigerian ministries were particularly revealing. They confirmed that repressive government practices in the real world are informing their activity in digital spaces.

For instance, they intimated that the repression that occurs during protests in the streets in order to manage “lawlessness” is being replicated online. Its purpose is to ensure peace and stability.

For development needs, countries like Nigeria initially seek out foreign suppliers to furnish them with state of the art technology systems. The objective is to establish or refurbish their information and communications technology apparatuses.

These include but are not limited to national broadband networks) such as fiber optic networks, mobile telecommunications networks and smart city governance systems. Though these are often not repressive in nature, they are capable of dual use. Thus, these development needs provide technologies that are then utilized in an authoritarian fashion for state building goals.

There is also evidence that some suppliers provide instruction on how to use these technologies for repression. In some instances, under the guise of development needs, regimes seek out more repressive tools such as spyware alongside these infrastructural development programs. At this stage, the boundary between development and security blurs, as modernization becomes a vehicle for national security, cyber defense, regime protection, and information control.

What can be done?

I propose a three-pronged approach to address the three drivers. First of all, more has to be done on the international front to curb the sale of repressive tools to states. There must be a conversation about the norms of these technologies and their use for repression in both democracies and autocracies.

On the demand side, it appears those practices that have plagued the hopes of freedom and democracy in the real world have to be addressed. Naturally, no movement on the digital front is complete without a real world manifestation. It seems logical that eradicating digital repression necessitates addressing repression in general.

Finally, regulatory legal and institutional oversight alongside human rights benchmarks must be achieved. These will accompany digital and privacy rights in cyberspace.

– Nigeria’s government is using digital technology to repress citizens. A researcher explains how
– https://theconversation.com/nigerias-government-is-using-digital-technology-to-repress-citizens-a-researcher-explains-how-267032

October 28, 2025

Luxury tourism is a risky strategy for African economies – new study of Botswana, Mauritius, Rwanda

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Pritish Behuria, Reader in Politics, Governance and Development, Global Development Institute, University of Manchester

How successful is luxury tourism in Africa? What happens if it fails to produce higher tourism revenues: can it be reversed? And does it depend on what kind of government is in place?

Pritish Behuria is a scholar of the political economy of development who has conducted a study in Botswana, Mauritius and Rwanda to find answers to questions like this. We asked him about his findings.

What is luxury tourism and how prevalent is it in Africa?

Luxury tourism aims to attract high-spending tourists to stay at premium resorts and lodges or visit exclusive attractions. It’s a strategy that’s being adopted widely by governments around the world and also in African countries.

It’s been promoted by multilateral agencies like the World Bank and the United Nations, as well as environmental and conservation organisations.

The logic underlying luxury tourism is that if fewer, high-spending tourists visit, this will result in less environmental impact. It’s often labelled as a “high-value, low-impact” approach.

However, studies have shown that luxury tourism does not lead to reduced environmental impact. Luxury tourists are more likely to use private jets. Private jets are more carbon intense than economy class travel. Supporters of luxury tourism also ignore that it reinforces economic inequalities, commercialises nature and restricts land access for indigenous populations.

In some ways, of course, the motives of African countries seem understandable. They remain starved of much-needed foreign exchange in the face of rising trade deficits. The allure of luxury tourism seems almost impossible to resist.

How did you go about your study?

I have been studying the political economy of Rwanda for nearly 15 years. The government there made tourism a central part of its national vision.

Over the years, many government officials and tourism stakeholders highlighted the challenges of luxury tourism strategies. Even so, there remains a single-mindedness to prioritise luxury tourism.

I found that, in Rwanda, luxury tourism resulted in a reliance on foreign-owned hotels and foreign travel agents, exposing potential leakages in tourism revenues. Crucially, tourism was not creating enough employment. There was also a skills lag in the sector. Employees were not being trained quickly enough to meet the surge of investments in hotels.

So I decided to investigate the effects of luxury tourism in other African countries. I wanted to know who benefits and how it is being reversed in countries that are turning away from it.

I interviewed government officials, hotel owners and other private sector representatives, aviation officials, consultants and journalists in all three countries. Added to this was a thorough review of economic data, industry reports and grey literature (including newspaper articles).

What are your take-aways from Mauritius?

Mauritius was the first of the three countries to explicitly adopt a luxury tourism strategy. In the late 1970s and early 1980s the government began to encourage European visitors to the island’s “sun-sand-sea” attractions. Large domestic business houses became lead investors, building luxury hotels and buying coastal land.

Over the years, tourism has provided significant revenues for the Mauritian economy. By 2019, the economy was earning over US$2 billion from the sector (before dropping during the COVID pandemic).

However, tourism has also been symbolic of the inequality that has characterised Mauritius’ growth. The all-inclusive resort model – where luxury hotels take care of all of a visitor’s food and travel needs themselves – has meant that the money being spent by tourists doesn’t always enter the local economy. A large share of profits remains outside the country or with large hotels.

After the pandemic, the Mauritian government took steps to loosen its focus on luxury tourism. It opened its air space to attract a broader range of tourists and re-started direct flights to Asia. There’s growing agreement within government that the opening up of tourism will go some way towards sustaining revenues and employment in the sector. Especially as some other key sectors (like offshore finance) may face an uncertain future.

And from Botswana?

Botswana followed Mauritius by formally adopting a luxury tourism strategy in 1990. Its focus was on its wilderness areas (the Okavango Delta) and wildlife safari lodges. For decades, there were criticisms from scholars about the inequalities in the sector.

Most lodges and hotels were foreign owned. Most travel agencies that booked all-inclusive trips operated outside Botswana. There were very few domestic linkages. Very little domestic agricultural or industrial production was used within the sector.

Guides take tourists across Botswana’s Okavango delta in boats. Diego Delso/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

However, I found that the direction of tourism policies had also become increasingly political. Certain politicians were aligned with conservation organisations and foreign investors in prioritising luxury tourism. Former president Ian Khama, for example, banned trophy hunting on ethical grounds in 2014. He pushed photographic tourism, where travellers visit destinations mainly to take photos. But critics allege he and his allies benefited from the push for photographic tourism.

Photographic tourism is closely linked with the problematic promotion of “unspoilt” wilderness areas that conform to foreign ideas about the “myth of wild Africa”.

President Mokgweetsi Masisi reversed the hunting ban once he took power. He argued it had adverse effects on rural communities and increased human-wildlife conflict. He believed that regulated hunting could be a tool for better wildlife management and could produce more benefits for communities.

Since the latter 2010s, Botswana’s government has loosened the emphasis on luxury tourism and tried to diversify tourism offerings. It has relaxed visa regulations for Asian countries, for example, to allow a wider range of tourists to visit more easily.

What about Rwanda?

Of the three cases, Rwanda was the most recent to adopt a luxury tourism strategy. However, it has remained the most committed to this strategy. Rwanda’s model is centred on mountain gorilla trekking and premium wildlife experiences. It’s augmented by Rwanda’s attempt to become a hub for business and sports tourism through high-profile conferences and events.

Gorillas are a key attraction for luxury tourists in Rwanda. Gatete Pacifique/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

Rwanda invited global hotel brands (like the Hyatt and Marriott) to build hotels and invested heavily in the country’s “nation brand” through sponsoring sports teams. The “luxury” element is managed through maintaining a high price to visit the country’s main tourist attraction: mountain gorillas. Rwanda is one of the few countries where mountain gorillas live.

After the pandemic, the government lowered prices to visit mountain gorillas but has also regularly stated its commitment to luxury tourism.

What did you learn by comparing the three?

I wanted to know why some countries reverse luxury tourism strategies once they fail while others don’t.

It is quite clear that luxury tourism strategies will always have disadvantages. As this study shows, luxury tourism repeatedly benefits only very few actors (often foreign investors or foreign-owned entities) and does not create sufficient employment or provide wider benefits for domestic populations. My research shows that the political pressure faced by democratic governments (like Botswana and Mauritius) forced them to loosen their luxury tourism strategies. This was not the case in more authoritarian Rwanda.

Rwanda’s position goes against a lot of recent literature on African political economy, which argues that parties with a stronger hold on power would be able to deliver better development outcomes.

While that may be case in some sectors, the findings of this study suggest that weaker political parties may actually be more responsive to changing policies that are creating inequality than countries with stronger political parties in power.

– Luxury tourism is a risky strategy for African economies – new study of Botswana, Mauritius, Rwanda
– https://theconversation.com/luxury-tourism-is-a-risky-strategy-for-african-economies-new-study-of-botswana-mauritius-rwanda-267877

October 28, 2025

Ecoball: how to turn picking up litter into a game for kids

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Solaja Mayowa Oludele, Lecturing, Olabisi Onabanjo University

Every year humanity produces nearly 300 million tonnes of plastic. Only a fraction ever gets recycled. Most ends up in rivers, oceans and soil, slowly breaking down into tiny, invisible microplastics that get into what we eat and drink.

Decades of recycling drives and policy bans have not altered the deep-rooted behaviours behind this crisis. But what if the next big environmental solution isn’t a new law or technology – but a game?

I am an environmental sociologist and behaviour change researcher from Nigeria. I developed a game called EcoBall in 2023 as a social innovation that makes sport a tool for sustainability.

The concept is discussed in my peer-reviewed paper.

EcoBall reimagines football as a discipline of training for environmental stewardship. Instead of chasing goals alone, teams compete to collect, sort and creatively reuse plastic waste. Each match becomes a live demonstration of the circular economy – the idea that materials should be reused, not discarded.

Here I describe how the game works, why it influences people’s behaviour, and what we found when we tested it in Nigerian schools and youth clubs.

Three zones, one planet

An EcoBall match uses a real ball made from tightly woven recycled plastic bags – the “EcoBall” itself. Two or more teams compete across three timed “learning zones”, combining physical play with environmental tasks.

• Collection zone (10-15 minutes): To start play, the ball is placed at the centre of the field. Players pass and dribble it like they would in football or handball. The pitch or play area is scattered with lightweight, clean plastic litter. Teams race to gather the litter from the designated area and place it in a team bag or collection net along the sidelines before rejoining the game. Points are awarded for the amount and diversity of plastics collected.

• Sorting zone: Back on the pitch, players classify the plastics correctly (PET bottles, sachets, nylon wrappers and so on). Accurate sorting earns additional points and practical recycling knowledge. Teams earn points for goals and for the quantity or weight of litter collected.

• Creative zone: After each game, the collected plastics are sorted and delivered to recycling or upcycling partners. Using selected materials, teams craft new items – from art pieces to flower planters or even another EcoBall. Judges score on creativity, teamwork and utility.

Participants also engage in short reflective or educational sessions to discuss plastic pollution, sustainability habits, and collective responsibility.

The champion is not only the fastest but also the team with the most environmental impact.

What seems to be a game is really learning through doing. Participants learn sustainability not by being preached at but by doing it, competing and relishing their achievements together.

The psychology behind the game

EcoBall draws on two social-science ideas: the theory of planned behaviour and social capital theory. The first explains why people adopt sustainable habits. By making recycling fun, social and rewarding, EcoBall reshapes attitudes and perceived norms – the key drivers of behaviour.

The second highlights the power of trust and networks. EcoBall builds these bonds as teams collaborate and share victories, creating social momentum that keeps environmental action alive long after the game ends.

In designing and evaluating EcoBall, I combined these theories with research on sport-for-development and environmental education. Where I was both participant-observer and referee, the assessment compared data from questionnaires, focus groups and observation diaries. The design allowed for transparency, credibility, and contextual validity in interpretation of EcoBall’s impact on environmental attitudes and behaviours.

Tested on the field

Pilot sessions were conducted at several schools and youth clubs across Ogun State to ascertain the level to which EcoBall enhances environmental awareness, cooperation and pro-active participation in plastic litter removal.

The pilots were community-led and research-motivated and were supported by small donations from local NGOs and schools, and recycling businesses which provided gloves, collection bags and bins.

Instructors reported increased cooperation and leadership. Players described being more responsible for their surroundings, and some of them formed neighbourhood clean-up clubs which extended weeks beyond the games. While the long-term effect is yet to be studied, these early findings show that EcoBall is likely to induce actual behavioural change.

From waste to wealth

EcoBall also shows that environmental action can create livelihoods. In one pilot, students built benches and flower planters from bottles gathered during matches. Others began selling up-cycled crafts, while the organisation of events – coaching, logistics and recycling partnerships – generated new work opportunities.

Such experiences echo the circular-economy principle of turning waste into worth.

Uniting generations and communities

Because EcoBall requires little equipment – just gloves, bags and open space – it thrives in low-resource communities.

The design was intentionally simple, ensuring accessibility and inclusion where conventional sports infrastructure is absent.

Although EcoBall is inexpensive to initiate, its long-term delivery as a structured sport-for-development and environmental education programme requires sustained funding. Investment is needed for facilitator training, community engagement, and monitoring activities. This is typical of community interventions: low-cost to launch but funding-dependent to sustain and scale.

Children, parents, and grandparents can play together, bridging generations and backgrounds. This shared passion generates a feeling of ownership of public spaces and renewed pride in keeping them clean.

Schools are able to incorporate EcoBall into extracurricular activities, municipalities can organise tournaments tied in with cleanup initiatives, and corporations can make it part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Following early successes, two NGOs that work with youth development have begun using EcoBall in their environmental clubs, and discussions are underway with the National Youth Service Corps to introduce it into community services.

Challenges and opportunities

No innovation is challenge-free. EcoBall needs consistent funding, materials and cultural adaptation. Keeping players engaged may require creative incentives – such as mobile apps to track points or online leaderboards connecting communities globally.

Yet these hurdles create opportunities. A “World EcoBall Cup” could one day unite cities or nations, rewarding those who divert the most plastic from the environment.

Instead of medals, winners would boast cleaner beaches and thriving circular economies.

Play for the planet

The global plastic crisis demands solutions that move people, not just policies.

EcoBall does exactly that – bringing sport together with green purpose and demonstrating that climate action has the power to be human, inclusive and fun.

It is not the sole responsibility of scientists or policymakers to fight pollution. It belongs to everyone willing to pick up a ball – or a bottle – and make a difference.

– Ecoball: how to turn picking up litter into a game for kids
– https://theconversation.com/ecoball-how-to-turn-picking-up-litter-into-a-game-for-kids-267888

October 28, 2025

Le Groupe Africa 24 vous offre : Future Investment Initiative (FII9)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le 27 au 30 octobre 2025, le Groupe AFRICA24 (https://Africa24TV.com/) vous offre une couverture exceptionnelle de la 9ème édition du Future Investment Initiative (FII9) la plateforme mondiale qui définit l’agenda des investissements internationaux.

Cette conférence constitue une plateforme stratégique majeure pour rassembler les leaders mondiaux influents, explorer les clés de la prospérité globale en mettant l’accent sur l’impact sur l’humanité.

Le FII9 : Un événement majeur en 4 étapes :

27 octobre 2025 : Conclaves exclusifs sur invitation réunissant investisseurs, PDG et décideurs politiques pour des dialogues pour établir des solutions.
28-29 octobre 2025 : Dialogues avec des leaders du gouvernement, des affaires et de la technologie pour l’avenir des investissements et des politiques.
Jour des Investissements (30 octobre 2025) : accords, stratégies d’investissement, démonstrations technologiques et réseaux de haut niveau.

A propos du Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute :

Le FII Institute est une fondation mondiale à but non lucratif, axée sur les données, avec un pôle d’investissement et un agenda unique : l’impact sur l’humanité rassemble les plus grands esprits du monde pour transformer les idées en solutions réelles dans quatre domaines critiques : l’IA et la robotique, l’éducation, la santé et la durabilité. le FII Institute opère à travers trois piliers : THINK, XCHANGE et ACT (bras d’investissement pour des projets concrets). Basé à Riyad avec des bureaux internationaux, Parmi ses partenaires stratégiques figurent le Public Investment Fund (PIF), Aramco, ACWA Power et bien d’autres.

Le Groupe Africa24 Une couverture 360° et une diffusion mondiale pour 120 millions de foyers

Retrouvez « Journées Spéciales FII9 » sur tous vos écrans en direct, en replay et à la demande sur :

AFRICA24 en français (chaîne 249) et AFRICA24 English (chaîne 254) du bouquet Canal+ Afrique
Sur myafrica24 la première plateforme de streaming HD de l’Afrique.
Sur www.Africa24TV.com qui vous offre accès intégral à tous les programmes

Avec le Groupe Africa24, Ensemble, transformons l’Afrique.

Distribué par APO Group pour AFRICA24 Group.

Contact :
Direction de la Communication – Groupe Africa24
Gaëlle Stella Oyono
Email : onana@africa24tv.com
Tél. : +237 694 90 99 88
| @ africa24tv | www.Africa24TV.com

A PROPOS DU GROUPE AFRICA24 :
Initié en 2009, le Groupe Africa 24 est le premier éditeur TV & média digital du continent avec 4 chaînes full HD en diffusion dans les plus grands bouquets. Leader chez les décideurs et cadres dirigeants du continent, Africa 24 en Français et Africa 24 English, le Groupe est le pionner et leader des chaînes d’informations sur l’Afrique. Africa 24 a renforcé ce leadership à travers le sport avec Africa24 Sport, première chaine en Afrique dédié à l’information sportive et aux compétitions et Africa24 Infinity, première chaîne dédiée aux industries créatives qui valorisent le génie créatif de la jeunesse africaine dans l’art, la culture, la musique, la mode, le design…

Première marque audiovisuelle du continent, le Groupe AFRICA24 dispose de 4 chaînes de télévisions en full HD chacune leader dans son segment :

AFRICA24 TV : Leader de l’information Africaine en Français, édité par AMedia
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AFRICA24 Sport : Première chaîne d’information sportive et des compétitions

Le Groupe AFRICA24 édite myafrica24 (Google store et App Store), la première plateforme de streaming HD mondiale sur l’Afrique disponible sur tous les écrans (Télévision, tablette, smartphone, ordinateurs) …Plus de 120 millions de foyers ont accès aux chaînes du Groupe Africa24 à travers les plus grands opérateurs : Canal+, Bouygues, Orange, Bell…et plus de 8 millions d’abonnés sur les différentes plateformes digitales et réseaux sociaux.

Media files

October 28, 2025

Deputy President Mashatile to deliver keynote address at NYDA’s 2025 Investment Indaba

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Friday, 31 October 2025, deliver a keynote address at the inaugural Youth Investment Indaba, scheduled to take place at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg.

Hosted by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), the Investment Indaba will convene leaders from Government, the private sector, development institutions, and youth-led enterprises to drive youth-focused investment and inclusive economic growth.

Held under the theme: “The road to a national youth fund”, this strategic platform aims to foster dialogue, innovation, and collaboration aimed at breaking down barriers that limit young people’s full participation in South Africa’s economy.

Through his keynote address, Deputy President Mashatile will underscore Government’s commitment to empowering young people and advancing sustainable investment partnerships that contribute to national development.

Details of the event are as follows:

Date: Friday, 31 October 2025
Time: 09h00 – 16h00
Venue: Houghton Hotel, Johannesburg

MEDIA ACCREDITATION

Members of the media wishing to attend and cover the event are requested to submit their accreditation details (Full Name, Media House, ID/Press Card, Contact Details) to Ms Tshiamo Selomo (066 118 1505) or Mr Hellmann Hlomuka (081 348 9940).

Media Enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840 OR Mr Tabudi Madisha, NYDA Communication Manager, on 081 473 3596.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

October 28, 2025

Government delivers 300 locally manufactured train sets

Source: Government of South Africa

In a significant milestone in South Africa’s rail commuter journey, government is celebrating the delivery of the 300 locally manufactured train sets that will transport passengers using the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) trains.

Affectionately known as Isitimela Sabantu, meaning “The People’s Train,” the 300 trains were built locally by Gibela in Ekurhuleni.

“These modern, blue-and-grey X’trapolis Mega trains are redefining the experience of passenger rail travel in South Africa. Each train that leaves the Gibela plant in Nigel, carries not only passengers but also the skills, livelihoods, and aspirations of South Africans who built it,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said on Tuesday in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.

She made these remarks at an event that highlighted strides being made by PRASA in rebuilding passenger rail as a reliable, efficient, and an inclusive mode of transportation that supports the economy, creates jobs, and uplifts communities.

The initiatives include the launch of the Solar Renewable Energy Project, the unveiling of the 300 trains and the official opening of Isipingo Mall.

“For the people of eThekwini, this investment means restored rail services, improved safety, and shorter travel times between communities and workplaces. Reliable, affordable rail access unlocks economic participation for thousands of commuters who depend on public transport every day.

“The modernisation of our fleet also signals a decisive shift toward local content and technology transfer. It affirms the government’s industrial policy vision that infrastructure investment must create value here at home, not only through the services it delivers but through the manufacturing ecosystems it sustains,” Creecy said.

These initiatives were unveiled befittingly during the Department of Transport’s annual October Transport Month, which is being held under the theme: “Implementing an integrated, sustainable and safe transport system that promotes inclusive economic growth, job retention and creation, and social development.”

“With every kilometre of track restored and every train returned to service, we are not only reconnecting cities; we are rebuilding confidence, creating opportunity, and delivering on our promise to make public transport the backbone of inclusive growth.

“As we rebuild our rail system, we must also rebuild the communities that depend on it. The Isipingo Mall is a shining example of how PRASA’s property portfolio can drive urban renewal and create new economic hubs that directly benefit local residents,” the Minister said.

This development forms part of PRASA’s secondary mandate strategy to revitalise key economic nodes and unlock the commercial potential of properties surrounding its rail network.

The centre covers 7 259 square meters of lettable retail area to be utilised by the 45 shops, centre manager office, public ablution facilities, banks & ATM’s, food court and 304 parking bays, designed to serve both commuters and the broader community.

“During the construction phase, the project created approximately 271 jobs, providing vital income and skills training for artisans, labourers, and contractors from the surrounding areas.

“This injection of employment helped stimulate local economic activity at a critical time and built a foundation for sustainable livelihoods,” the Minister said.

Now, in its operational phase, Isipingo Mall is expected to generate more than 150 permanent jobs in retail, facilities management, and community services.

“These opportunities are already helping local families secure stable incomes and contribute to the economic vitality of eThekwini. Importantly, this development embodies PRASA’s secondary commercial mandate — to generate revenue through its property assets in a way that benefits communities and supports the financial sustainability of the rail network,” she said.

According to the Minister, investing in developments like Isipingo Mall, PRASA demonstrates that public infrastructure can be financially viable, socially impactful, and community-oriented all at once.

“None of these achievements would be possible without strong partnerships. The Department of Transport, PRASA, Intersite, our developers, local municipalities, and the private sector have worked together to ensure that these projects deliver real results, including jobs, skills, and economic growth.

“As a government, we recognise that sustainable transport infrastructure is not built in isolation. It requires collaboration across all spheres – national, provincial, and local – as well as engagement with business and labour. The eThekwini community has shown what can be achieved when public investment meets community participation,” the Minister said.

In a move that will reduce the carbon footprint of rail operations, PRASA is installing solar power systems are being installed at key stations and facilities.

The Solar Renewable Energy Project is spearheaded by PRASA’s subsidiary Intersite.

“These systems will reduce the agency’s dependence on the national grid, improve operational reliability during power disruptions, and significantly lower the carbon footprint of rail operations.

“Each of these projects, from the solar installations to the new trains and the Isipingo Mall, are a direct reflection of the true ethos of South Africa, the spirit of Ubuntu: working together to uplift one another.

“Through these partnerships, we are laying the tracks for a transport system that does more than move people; it transforms lives,” Creecy said.

In the months ahead, PRASA will continue to roll out new train sets, expand renewable energy projects across the network, and unlock the value of its properties to strengthen financial sustainability. –SAnews.gov.za

October 28, 2025

Court interpreters are guardians of constitutional rights

Source: Government of South Africa

The role played by court interpreters in facilitating access to justice for the entire nation cannot be overstated, says Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi.

“Court interpreters are not merely linguistic facilitators. They are guardians of constitutional rights, ensuring that every person, regardless of language, background or ability, has meaningful access to justice,” Kubayi said.

Speaking at the launch of the Court Interpreters’ Robes Programme at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre in Pretoria on Tuesday, Kubayi said it was the first of its kind in the world.

This initiative is aimed at professionalising the role of interpreters and affirming their status as critical enablers of justice.

The ceremonial robing of court interpreters marks a transformative moment in the justice system, underscoring their essential role.

“Your services are an integral part of the functioning of our courts, without which justice would not be served,” Kubayi said.

Kubayi said universal access to justice can only be attained when every citizen in the country can access justice and participate in court processes in the language of their choice.

“Properly utilised, language interpretation in our courts can transform our language diversity from being a barrier to an instrument for empowerment, social cohesion and a creation of a more just society.

“As part of the justice system, court interpreting must also be practiced in manner that demonstrates a shift from language interpretation under the unjust system of apartheid to language interpretation in a democracy that embraces human rights and diversity.

“The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, through Justice College, will continue to provide foundational training for interpreters.”

Kubayi said government’s decision to take this important step of robing court interpreters is motivated by the recognition of the responsibility they carry as language interpreters in the courts.

“Equally, it behoves you to carry out your tasks professionally, ethically and without prejudice. Faced with the challenge of huge case backlogs, our courts cannot afford to have court interpreters who do not understand the importance of pulling their weight to improve court efficiency.

“As interpreters, you need to understand that you are at the coal face of our judiciary and the justice system in general. You must be the embodiment of the Batho Pele principles of public service,” the Minister said.

As part of the launch, court interpreters will adopt a new professional standard that includes the wearing of official gowns and a black-and-white dress code. – SAnews.gov.za

October 28, 2025

South Africa reaffirms commitment to global biosecurity

Source: Government of South Africa

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to global biosecurity, animal health and food security, highlighting the country’s proactive measures to reduce biological threats through a One Health approach.

Addressing the Global Threat Reduction Conference of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) in Geneva, Switzerland, on Tuesday, Steenhuisen said South Africa recognises that biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate, pose a serious challenge to both national and global health security.

“Our approach to biological threat reduction is anchored in the One Health values, which acknowledge that the health of people, animals and the environment are inseparably linked,” Steenhuisen said.

The Minister outlined South Africa’s national strategy, which focuses on early detection, prevention, and rapid response to biological risks, supported by strong governance structures, evidence-based policies, and sustained collaboration among national, regional, and international partners.

Through these efforts, he said the country aims not only to safeguard animal and public health, but also to sustain agricultural productivity and food security.

A cornerstone of South Africa’s biological threat reduction efforts is the implementation of the National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Strategy Framework, which adopts a holistic One Health approach to addressing antimicrobial resistance across the animal, human, and environmental sectors.

The Minister also noted the establishment of coordinated national surveillance programmes to monitor resistance patterns, improve laboratory diagnostics, and guide responsible use of antimicrobials.

“Within the veterinary sector, our focus is on reducing the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials, strengthening animal husbandry practices and promoting alternatives, such as vaccination and improved biosecurity. We are also engaged in extensive awareness campaigns targeting veterinary officials, farmers, and the general public to build a culture of prudent antimicrobial use.

“Through the Southern African Development Community (SADC) AMR platform, South Africa continues to collaborate with neighbouring countries to harmonise surveillance, share data and align regional response strategies,” Steenhuisen said.

Strengthening food and meat safety

Steenhuisen also underscored the importance of meat safety as part of South Africa’s biosecurity system and the country’s commitment to protecting public health.

Under our Meat Safety Act, the country maintains a rigorous abattoir approval and inspection system, ensuring compliance with national hygiene, welfare, and traceability standards.

“The South African Meat Industry Company (SAMIC) plays a significant role in auditing and certifying facilities, while the International Meat Quality Assurance Services (IMQUAS) electronic meat inspection and traceability system enhances accountability across the entire meat value chain, from abattoir to trade. These initiatives support our continuous drive toward improved food safety, consumer protection, and market confidence, in alignment with WOAH standards.

“Our import control measures for animal and animal byproducts contribute to biological threat reduction. All import materials entering South Africa are subject to stringent veterinary import permit conditions, comprehensive risk assessments and inspection at designated points of entry,” the Minister highlighted.

South Africa’s Agricultural Research Council (ARC) also hosts nine WOAH reference laboratories researching key endemic animal diseases, which include African horse sickness (AHS), African swine fever (ASF), bluetongue (BT), Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), lumpy-skin disease (LSD), rabies, Rift Valley fever (RVF), sheep and goat pox (SGP), and Theileriosis.

“The laboratories operate in full compliance with internationally recognised quality management systems, adhering to ISO/IEC 17025 [international standard for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories] standards and maintaining accreditation through the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS),” the Minister said.

Steenhuisen further highlighted significant strides towards self-sufficiency in FMD vaccine production, with ARC already registered vaccine and now building a factory to mass produce it.

He said efforts to produce the vaccine on a smaller scale and expected to see the production of thousands of vaccine doses by April 2026, are at an advanced stage.

The Global Conference on Biological Threat Reduction, taking place from 28-30 October 2025 brings together top minds in the fields of health-security, including emerging technologies, and biothreat reduction policies, from the public and private sectors, to focus on the latest strategies, challenges and innovations in combating biological threats to interconnected ecosystems. – SAnews.gov.za

October 28, 2025

Motsoaledi calls on MPs to lead the fight against TB

Source: Government of South Africa

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has urged citizens, especially Members of Parliament (MPs), to vigorously champion the response to end tuberculosis (TB).

“Let us unite in our commitment to eradicate TB and enhance the health of every South African. Our collective action, unyielding dedication, and political resolve will shape the future of health in our nation,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

The Minister was speaking in Parliament, where he was relaunching the South African TB Caucus.

According to the Department of Health, TB has been South Africa’s leading cause of death for several years and continues to pose a significant public health threat.

Despite significant progress, in 2023 alone, approximately 56 000 lives were lost to this disease.

“These are not mere statistics; they represent mothers, fathers, children, colleagues, neighbours, and community members whose lives have been tragically curtailed by a preventable and curable condition.

“Our young and elderly, irrespective of race or social standing, remain vulnerable, and this epidemic continues to sap our economy, impede development, and exacerbate inequalities.”

South Africa is among the top 30 high-burden TB countries globally, with an estimated 54% of people with TB coinfected with HIV.

South Africa continues to bear a heavy burden of TB, compounded by the ongoing challenges of HIV and non-communicable diseases.

“Our success as a country will be gauged by reduced mortality, increased treatment success, and restored dignity for every South African living with or affected by TB,” Motsoaledi said.

The Minister said the focus must remain unequivocal, which includes early diagnosis, effective treatment, and addressing the root causes of TB.

“We shall ensure that no one is left behind – especially the most vulnerable amongst us. Together, we shall end TB. Together, we shall make a difference.”

The South African TB Caucus acts as a connection between political leaders, the health sector, and, most importantly, communities.

According to the Minister, this approach will ensure that TB is viewed not just as a medical issue, but as a crucial developmental, human rights, and political concern.

The National TB Caucus is a multi-party assembly of parliamentarians who collaborate to advance the fight against TB at global, national, and provincial levels.

The South African TB Caucus is part of a broader regional and international effort to eliminate TB as a public health threat, aligning with the goals of regional and global TB Caucuses.

“Working with a diverse array of partners, the caucus fulfils its mandate at national and provincial levels.” – SAnews.gov.za

October 28, 2025

Improving the reliability of commuter rail

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, has announced that solar power systems are being installed across the country at key stations and facilities operated by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).

“These systems will reduce the agency’s dependence on the national grid, improve operational reliability during power disruptions, and significantly lower the carbon footprint of rail operations,” Creecy said on Tuesday in eThekwini.

The Minister made these remarks during the launch of the Solar Renewable Energy Project, which she described as one of PRASA’s most forward-looking initiatives, spearheaded by its subsidiary, Intersite, to transform the way operations are being powered.

“In a time of global climate change, PRASA is proving that public infrastructure can lead the green transition. By investing in renewable energy, we are creating cleaner, safer, and more cost-effective transport services, while supporting South Africa’s commitment to reduce emissions under our national energy transition plan.

“For the people of eThekwini and across South Africa, this means trains that run more reliably, stations that stay operational even during power outages, and a public entity that saves millions of rands in energy costs, which can be redirected toward service improvement and community development,” the Minister said.

She emphasised that the true value of this project extends beyond energy efficiency.

“It represents innovation, resilience and responsibility — qualities which we want all our public institutions to embody. This project shows that when we combine environmental stewardship with operational innovation, we lay the foundation for a transport system that is both sustainable and people centered,” the Minister said.

This initiative was launched during the Department of Transport’s annual October Transport Month, which is being held under the theme: “Implementing an integrated, sustainable and safe transport system that promotes inclusive economic growth, job retention and creation, and social development.”

Moreover, the Minister celebrated and the official opening of Isipingo Mall and the delivery of the 300 locally manufactured train sets, affectionately known as Isitimela Sabantu, meaning “The People’s Train.”

“Built locally by Gibela in Ekurhuleni, these modern, blue-and-grey X’trapolis Mega trains are redefining the experience of passenger rail travel in South Africa.

“Reaching Train Set 300 marks the halfway point of our goal of producing 600 locally manufactured trains — a major achievement in the Rail Modernisation Programme, led by PRASA and the Department of Transport.

“In the months ahead, PRASA will continue to roll out new train sets, expand renewable energy projects across the network, and unlock the value of its properties to strengthen financial sustainability,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za