Category: MIL-OSI

Posted on

President El-Sisi Meets Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism and Antiquities

Source: APO


.

Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Mr. Sherif Fathy, and the Board Member of the United Media Services Company and General Supervisor of the Grand Egyptian Museum’s opening ceremony Mr. Mohamed Al-Saadi.

Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the President followed up on the ongoing preparations for the major celebration that will be held on the occasion of the Grand Egyptian Museum’s opening, scheduled for November 1st. The Minister of Tourism and Antiquities offered a presentation on the procedures and preparations being undertaken in coordination with various ministries and concerned authorities, including logistical aspects and proposed event segments, as well as the associated organizational arrangements.

President El-Sisi emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation and coordination among the relevant parties to ensure the organization of an opening ceremony that reflects Egypt’s status and showcases its leadership in the fields of museums and global culture, contributing to the promotion of tourism in the country.

The President also reaffirmed the need for the celebration’s image to reflect not only the grandeur of this global landmark but also the scale of achievements and progress Egypt is experiencing in various fields, in line with its cultural status on the world stage. The meeting also tackled the implementation of development projects around the museum area, as part of the ongoing preparations for the opening.

The meeting touched on several other topics related to the work of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and the President was briefed on the latest developments in the tourism sector’s development plans.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Posted on

SA and Malaysia reaffirm historic solidarity

Source: Government of South Africa

By Neo Bodumela

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Amid a rousing and colourful welcome in Kuala Lumpur befitting the warm relations between South Africa and Malaysia, the stage was set for a profound reaffirmation of ties between the two countries.

The leaders of the two countries, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, drew on the deep history of a shared resistance to slavery, apartheid and colonialism to pave way for deeper and more collaborative future ties.

President Ramaphosa is on a Working Visit to the country as he wraps up a three nation visit to Southeast Asia.

“I wish to thank you…for the invitation that you extend it to us as South Africans and for the very warm welcome that we witnessed as we were coming in. 

“We have hardly been able to see such a warm welcome which was displayed not only by your ministers and key officials but by young people at school and at universities. So that truly warmed our hearts,” President Ramaphosa remarked during a joint press briefing with the Prime Minister.

The history between the two countries dates back hundreds of years which the President described as a “shared resistance to the atrocities of slavery, and colonialism”.

During the times of slavery in the 1700 and 1800s, thousands of Malaysian people were forcefully taken to South Africa and later became known as the Cape Malay.

Some years later, the Malaysian government would also assist anti-apartheid efforts in South Africa – forging bonds of solidarity between the two nations.

“We will forever remain grateful to the people and the government of Malaysia, for your support in our struggle for freedom, but also in the formative years of our democracy,” President Ramaphosa said.

Relations between the two countries were formalised in November 1998 and the President called for a revitalisation and strengthening of ties.

“We have reconfirmed that trade and investment opportunities needs to be expanded between our countries. Particularly during this period of geological tensions and challenges where trade is being used as a weapon.

“We do believe, as you do too, that we need to expand our market base and having been so closely related to one another and to tapered down over the years, we would like to recalibrate that and make sure that our ties get stronger and stronger. 

“So, South Africa will strive to further strengthen our existing collaboration in the many areas of common interest. The momentum which these consultations have generated should not be lost,” President Ramaphosa noted.

He emphasised that South Africa places “great importance” on its relations with the Southeast Asian nation.

“It is my hope that we will continue to strengthen our friendship and our cooperation in as two nations. With the various exchanges that we should have, it would be most fitting that we rekindle also our people-to-people relations especially in education. 

“As you talk about exchanges between universities, at the research level, at student exchange level, and we should also broaden the exchanges at the culture level and also the sport level,” he said.

Malaysia – at the invitation of South Africa – is expected to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

“We await to welcome you there together with the business delegation that you’re going to bring which will help to solidify our relations at a trade and investment level. Our ministers are going to be fully engaged in crafting memoranda of understanding in a number of areas. 

“In extending the friendship and cooperation between us, I wish to extend to you an invitation, to visit South Africa at a state level visit in 2026…and we will be honoured to welcome you to the most beautiful country in the world, South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za 

Posted on

Moçambique recebe prémio de seguro de 2 milhões de dólares para proteção contra secas, com o Programa Africano de Financiamento de Riscos a atingir os 150 milhões de dólares

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Moçambique recebeu um prémio de seguro de 2 milhões de dólares para proteção contra secas, cobrindo a temporada agrícola de 2025-2026, marcando o terceiro ano consecutivo de cobertura do país pelo programa de financiamento de riscos de desastres do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org).

O prémio foi anunciado durante o Fórum de Financiamento de Riscos Climáticos e de Desastres (CDRFI) de 2025, realizado de 14 a 16 de outubro com o tema “Construir a resiliência de África através de financiamento e seguros transformadores de riscos climáticos e de desastres”. O fórum foi organizado conjuntamente pelo governo de Moçambique e pelo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento para promover o financiamento de riscos de desastres do ADRiFi no continente.

O Programa Africano de Financiamento de Riscos de Catástrofes (ADRiFi) reforça a preparação financeira dos países contra choques climáticos, apoiando o seguro de risco soberano, melhorando a modelação de riscos e integrando o financiamento de riscos de catástrofes nos quadros políticos nacionais em toda a África.

No âmbito do ADRiFi, o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento fornece financiamento e subsidia prémios de seguro para os países africanos participantes, ao mesmo tempo que reforça a sua capacidade de gerir os riscos climáticos. O Grupo Africano de Capacidade de Risco (ARC) fornece o seguro de risco soberano e garante pagamentos rápidos quando os limiares de catástrofes são ativados, enquanto os países doadores, incluindo o Reino Unido, Suíça, Canadá, Noruega e Países Baixos, contribuem com financiamento através do Fundo Fiduciário Multidoadores para apoiar a implementação do programa.

Para assinalar a receção dos fundos dos prémios por Moçambique, foi entregue um cheque simbólico a Albertina Fruquia Fumane, Secretária Permanente do Ministério das Finanças de Moçambique, que descreveu as políticas de seguro de risco do país como “um instrumento estratégico de antecipação que permite ao Estado proteger os mais vulneráveis, manter a estabilidade social e mitigar os impactos económicos dos choques climáticos recorrentes”. 

O líder do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento para a redução do risco do financiamento agrícola e resiliência climática, Andrew Mude, enfatizou a urgência de implementar programas de seguro climático: “Os impactos climáticos estão a intensificar-se em toda a África”, afirmou. “O Programa Africano de Financiamento do Risco de Catástrofes mobilizou mais de 150 milhões de dólares para apoiar 16 nações africanas, salvaguardando mais de seis milhões de pessoas e demonstrando o potencial transformador das soluções financeiras estratégicas na salvaguarda de vidas e meios de subsistência”.

A Embaixadora Elsbeth Akkerman, dos Países Baixos, em representação dos doadores do Fundo Fiduciário Multidoadores ADRiFi, afirmou: “Mais importante ainda é o governo de Moçambique, através do Ministro das Finanças, que defende o ADRiFi, juntamente com outros governos africanos, o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento e a Capacidade Africana de Risco; é a liderança africana que permite o sucesso”.

O vice-presidente do Instituto Nacional de Gestão e Redução de Riscos de Desastres (INGD), Gabriel Belem Monteiro, a agência executora, considerou o Fórum de Financiamento de Riscos Climáticos e de Desastres de 2025 “uma oportunidade estratégica para reforçar as capacidades, alinhar as políticas e consolidar a liderança africana na gestão de riscos de desastres”.

Anthony Mothae Maruping, presidente do conselho da Capacidade Africana de Risco, parceira do programa ADRiFi, apresentou a experiência de Moçambique como um modelo para o continente. “Isto envia uma mensagem poderosa ao resto do continente: quando África lidera com visão e unidade, África vence”, afirmou.

A Diretora Nacional do Programa Alimentar Mundial em Moçambique, Claire Conan, enfatizou a urgência de agir rapidamente: “O seguro paramétrico é mais do que um instrumento financeiro – é um compromisso com a ação proativa. Num mundo onde os recursos são cada vez mais limitados, agir rapidamente, de forma eficiente e com base em evidências não é apenas uma boa prática – é um imperativo moral e económico”.

Os participantes do fórum aproveitaram para fazer uma visita no terreno às comunidades afetadas pela seca no distrito de Magude, província de Maputo, o que lhes permitiu observar diretamente como os prémios de seguro proporcionam um apoio tangível às comunidades mais afetadas. 

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacto para os media:
Elisângela Cristo
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas
media@afdb.org

About O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros. Mais informações em www.AfDB.org/pt

Media files

Baixar .tipo

Posted on

Mozambique Receives $2 Million Insurance Premium for Drought Protection as African Risk Financing Programme Reaches $150 Million Milestone

Source: APO

Mozambique received a $2 million insurance premium for drought protection covering the 2025-2026 agricultural season, marking the country’s third consecutive year of coverage under the African Development Bank’s disaster risk financing programme (www.AfDB.org).

The premium was announced during the 2025 Climate and Disaster Risk Financing Forum (CDRFI), held from October 14 to 16 under the theme “Building Africa’s Resilience through Transformative Climate and Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance.” The forum was jointly organised by the government of Mozambique and the African Development Bank to advance ADRiFi’s disaster risk financing on the continent.

The Africa Disaster Risk Financing Programme (ADRiFi) strengthens country’s financial preparedness against climate shocks by supporting sovereign risk insurance, enhancing risk modelling, and integrating disaster risk financing into national policy frameworks across Africa.

Under ADRiFi, the African Development Bank provides financing and subsidises insurance premiums for participating African countries while strengthening their capacity to manage climate risks. The African Risk Capacity Group (ARC) delivers the sovereign risk insurance and rapid payouts when disaster thresholds are triggered, while donor countries including the UK, Switzerland, Canada, Norway, and the Netherlands contribute funding through the Multi-Donor Trust Fund to support program implementation.

To mark Mozambique’s receipt of premium funds, a ceremonial cheque was presented to Albertina Fruquia Fumane, Permanent Secretary at Mozambique’s Ministry of Finance. She described the country’s risk insurance policies as “a strategic instrument of anticipation that enables the state to protect the most vulnerable, maintain social stability, and mitigate the economic impacts of recurring climate shocks.”

The African Development Bank Group’s Lead for De-Risking Agricultural Finance and Climate Resilience Andrew Mude emphasised the urgency of putting climate insurance programs in place: “Climate impacts are intensifying across Africa,” he said. “The Africa Disaster Risk Financing Programme has mobilized over $150 million in support of 16 African nations, safeguarding more than six million people and demonstrating the transformative potential of strategic financial solutions in safeguarding lives and livelihoods.”

Ambassador Elsbeth Akkerman of the Netherlands, representing the ADRiFi Multi-Donor Trust Fund donors, said: “Most importantly, it is the government of Mozambique, through the Minister of Finance, that champions of ADRiFi- together with other African governments, the African Development Bank and the African Risk Capacity. It is the African leadership that enables success.”  ADRiFi donors include the United Kingdom, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, and Switzerland.

Vice-President of the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD), Gabriel Belem Monteiro, the executing agency, called the 2025 Climate and Disaster Risk Financing Forum “a strategic opportunity to strengthen capabilities, align policies, and consolidate African leadership in disaster risk management.”

Anthony Mothae Maruping, Board Chairperson of the African Risk Capacity, a partner in the ADRiFi program, framed Mozambique’s experience as a model for the continent. “This sends a powerful message to the rest of the continent: when Africa leads with foresight and unity, Africa wins,” Maruping said.

Country Director of the World Food Programme in Mozambique, Ms. Claire Conan, emphasized the urgency of acting early: “Parametric insurance is more than a financial instrument—it’s a commitment to proactive action. In a world where resources are increasingly limited, acting early, efficiently, and based on evidence is not just good practice—it is a moral and economic imperative.”

Forum attendees took the time to make a field visit to drought-affected communities in Magude District, Maputo Province, enabling them to observe directly how insurance premiums deliver tangible support to hard hit communities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact:
Elisângela Cristo
email: media@afdb.org

Media files

.

Posted on

Le Mozambique reçoit une prime d’assurance de deux millions de dollars pour la protection contre la sécheresse tandis que le Programme de financement des risques de catastrophe en Afrique (ADRiFi) atteint le cap des 150 millions de dollars

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Mozambique a reçu une prime d’assurance de deux millions de dollars pour la protection contre la sécheresse couvrant la saison agricole 2025-2026. Il s’agit de la troisième année consécutive de couverture du pays dans le cadre du Programme de financement des risques de catastrophe en Afrique de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org).

Cette prime a été annoncée lors du Forum sur le financement des risques climatiques et de catastrophes 2025 (CDRFI), qui s’est tenu du 14 au 16 octobre sur le thème suivant : « Renforcer la résilience de l’Afrique grâce à un financement et une assurance transformateurs des risques climatiques et de catastrophes ». Le forum était coorganisé par le gouvernement du Mozambique et la Banque africaine de développement afin de promouvoir le financement des risques de catastrophe de l’ADRiFi sur le continent.

Le Programme de financement des risques de catastrophe en Afrique (ADRiFi) renforce la préparation financière des pays contre les chocs climatiques en soutenant l’assurance des risques souverains, en améliorant la modélisation des risques et en intégrant le financement des risques de catastrophe dans les cadres politiques nationaux dans l’ensemble de l’Afrique.

Dans le cadre de l’ADRiFi, la Banque africaine de développement fournit des financements et subventionne les primes d’assurance pour les pays africains participants tout en renforçant leur capacité à gérer les risques climatiques. L’African Risk Capacity Group (ARC) fournit l’assurance contre les risques souverains et procède à des versements rapides lorsque les seuils de catastrophe sont atteints, tandis que les pays donateurs, notamment le Royaume-Uni, la Suisse, le Canada, la Norvège et les Pays-Bas, contribuent au financement par l’intermédiaire du Fonds fiduciaire multidonateurs pour soutenir la mise en œuvre du programme.

Pour marquer la réception du montant de la prime par le Mozambique, un chèque de cérémonie a été remis à Albertina Fruquia Fumane, secrétaire permanente du ministère mozambicain des Finances. Elle a décrit les politiques d’assurance contre les risques du pays comme étant « un instrument stratégique d’anticipation qui permet à l’État de protéger les plus vulnérables, de maintenir la stabilité sociale et d’atténuer les impacts économiques des chocs climatiques récurrents. »

Andrew Mude, responsable de la réduction des risques liés au financement agricole et à la résilience climatique au sein du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement, a souligné l’urgence de mettre en place des programmes d’assurance climatique : « Les impacts climatiques s’intensifient dans toute l’Afrique », a-t-il alerté. « Le Programme de financement des risques de catastrophe en Afrique a mobilisé plus de 150 millions de dollars en faveur de 16 pays africains, protégeant plus de six millions de personnes et démontrant le potentiel transformateur des solutions financières stratégiques dans la préservation des vies et des moyens de subsistance. »

L’ambassadrice des Pays-Bas, Elsbeth Akkerman, représentait les donateurs du Fonds fiduciaire multidonateurs ADRiFi. « Plus important encore, c’est le gouvernement du Mozambique, par l’intermédiaire du ministre des Finances, qui se fait le champion de l’ADRiFi, aux côtés d’autres gouvernements africains, de la Banque africaine de développement et de l’African Risk Capacity. Le leadership africain est la clé du succès », a-t-elle souligné. Les pays donateurs de l’ADRiFi sont le Royaume-Uni, le Canada, les Pays-Bas, la Norvège et la Suisse.

Gabriel Belem Monteiro, vice-président de l’Institut national pour la gestion et la réduction des risques de catastrophes (INGD), l’agence d’exécution, a qualifié le Forum sur le financement des risques climatiques et de catastrophes 2025 « d’opportunité stratégique pour renforcer les capacités, aligner les politiques et consolider le leadership africain en matière de gestion des risques de catastrophe ».

Anthony Mothae Maruping, président du Conseil d’administration de l’African Risk Capacity, partenaire du programme ADRiFi, a qualifié l’expérience du Mozambique de modèle pour le continent. « Cela envoie un message fort au reste du continent : l’Afrique gagne lorsqu’elle fait preuve de prévoyance et d’unité », a déclaré M. Maslo.

La directrice du Programme alimentaire mondial (PAM) au Mozambique, Claire Conan, a mis l’accent sur l’urgence d’agir tôt : « L’assurance paramétrique est plus qu’un instrument financier : c’est un engagement en faveur d’une action proactive. Dans un monde où les ressources sont de plus en plus limitées, agir tôt, efficacement et en se fondant sur des données probantes n’est pas seulement une bonne pratique, c’est un impératif moral et économique. »

Les participants au forum ont pris le temps d’effectuer une visite de terrain auprès des communautés touchées par la sécheresse dans le district de Magude (province de Maputo), ce qui leur a permis de constater directement la manière dont les primes d’assurance apportent un soutien tangible aux communautés durement touchées.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Elisângela Cristo
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
courriel : media@afdb.org

Media files

Posted on

Joint Statement between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa on the occasion of the Official Visit of His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa to Malaysia, Malaysia

Source: President of South Africa –

At the invitation of the Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, His Excellency Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, undertook an Official Visit to Malaysia in conjunction with the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits from 24 to 27 October 2025. This marked President Ramaphosa’s first official visit to Malaysia since assuming the Presidency on 15 February 2018. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 8 November 1993, Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa have enjoyed a strong and enduring partnership, underpinned by mutual respect, shared values, and common aspirations.

President Ramaphosa was received by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and accorded a ceremonial welcome at Perdana Square, Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya on 25 October 2025. Following the ceremony, both leaders held a meeting to review the current state of bilateral relations of Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Both leaders also reaffirmed the bonds of friendship between the two nations and their aspirations to build a more dynamic and resilient partnership. The substantive discussions were held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reflecting the deep trust and shared commitment of both sides.

Both leaders recognised the importance of revitalising bilateral relations and expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in key areas, including trade and investment; halal industry; agriculture; defence; science, technology and innovation; education; tourism and culture; transport; and capacity building. They recognised that enhanced collaboration in these sectors would deliver tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries and contribute to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.

Both leaders expressed confidence in the continued growth of bilateral relations and noted the considerable untapped economic potentials between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa. They further agreed to strengthen trade and investment linkages by facilitating participation of businesses from both countries in trade fairs, exhibitions, and business forums.

Malaysia expressed its intention to expand exports of MSPO-certified palm oil to the Republic of South Africa, in support of the country’s growing demand for sustainably produced food and ingredients within its food processing and manufacturing sectors. Both leaders highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation including research, training programmes, and green manufacturing in the palm oil industry, recognising Malaysia’s position as a global leader in sustainable palm oil production and the Republic of South Africa’s potential as a strategic partner and emerging market. Both sides further agreed to explore opportunities for joint ventures, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen collaboration and promote sustainable growth in this sector.

Acknowledging the strategic importance of technological advancement, both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of semiconductor. Both sides recognised Malaysia’s role as a global hub and leading exporter in the semiconductor industry, and expressed commitment to leverage this expertise to promote knowledge-sharing, joint research, and capacity-building. The Republic of South Africa is keen to export to Malaysia iron and related products, aircraft and spacecrafts components, machineries and parts while also encouraged Malaysia to consider investing in green hydrogen, mineral beneficiation, energy infrastructure, energy battery storage and distribution and automotive.

Recognising the growing global demand for halal products and services, both Leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in the halal sector, capitalising on Malaysia’s expertise as a globally recognised leader in this field. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to facilitating mutual recognition of halal certification, strengthening the halal food supply chain and manufacturing of halal products, as well as exchanging best practices in halal standards and certification processes. Both countries agreed to further explore mutually beneficial opportunities for joint cooperation in utilising the Republic of South Africa as a Halal Hub to access the huge market for halal consumers in Africa.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in agriculture, particularly in the areas of food security, sustainable farming practices, agro-based industries, and agro-tourism. They agreed to explore opportunities for joint ventures and collaborative initiatives in the areas of technology transfer, capacity building, and innovation in agriculture.

Recognising that bilateral defence relations are underpinned by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation signed in 1996, both leaders welcomed the initiative to review the MoU through a Protocol of Amendment aimed at revitalising and strengthening defence cooperation in line with current strategic priorities. They further agreed to reactivate the Defence Committee (DEFCOM) as the primary platform of engagement and implementation of the strategic objectives between Ministries of Defence for both countries, with its reactivation expected to commence in 2026. Both leaders also reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen collaboration in emerging areas of defence cooperation such as military training and exercises, maritime safety and security, defence science, technology, and industry to deepen existing relations in joint ventures, technology transfer, modernisation, maintenance and repair of defence equipment as well as technology transfer towards mutual interests and partnership.

Both leaders reaffirmed the significance of science, technology, and innovation (STI), as well as especially disruptive technology, as key drivers of economic growth and transformation. They agreed to promote collaboration in emerging sector, particularly through joint research and development, knowledge-sharing, technology transfer, science diplomacy, and capacity-building to strengthen innovation ecosystems in both countries. Both leaders also concurred that the government-led research and innovation must establish robust, reliable research and funding to facilitate sustained collaboration.

Both leaders underscored the importance of education as the cornerstone of sustainable development and shared prosperity. They agreed to enhance cooperation between higher education institutions, promote academic and student exchanges, and strengthen collaboration in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), including joint research and scholarship programmes to nurture future-ready talent and advance knowledge-based growth.

Both leaders acknowledged the significance of culture and tourism in strengthening people-to-people ties and fostering mutual understanding. They agreed to deepen cooperation through exchanges in the fields of arts, heritage, creative industries, and tourism promotion. Both leaders expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in the field of tourism, particularly in the context of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) and Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT2026) campaigns, as well as the Republic of South Africa’s rich cultural and natural heritages.

Recognising the importance of enhancing connectivity between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa as a key enabler of trade, tourism, and people-to-people linkages, both leaders encouraged continued collaboration between relevant ministries and agencies, to explore opportunities in the maritime, aviation, and logistics sectors. Both leaders welcomed the private sector participation in areas related to rail transport, logistics, and infrastructure development towards facilitating greater economic integration between the two countries.

Both leaders noted with satisfaction the continued success of the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) in supporting capacity-building initiatives in the Republic of South Africa. Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthen cooperation under the MTCP, especially in the areas of education, healthcare, semiconductor and renewable energy.

In realising the full potential of the bilateral relations, both Leaders underscored the importance of maintaining regular high-level exchanges, consultations, and close coordination at all levels. They also agreed to continue fostering dialogue and collaboration on regional and international issues of common concern within the framework of multilateral organisations including the United Nations (UN), the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the Commonwealth.

The President of the Republic of South Africa extended his warm congratulations to the Prime Minister and expressed his strong support for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship. The President conveyed confidence in Malaysia’s leadership in advancing ASEAN’s goals of deeper regional integration, peace, and prosperity. The Prime Minister, in turn, commended the Republic of South Africa’s important role as the G20 Presidency as well as its significant contributions within BRICS in promoting inclusive growth, multilateral cooperation, and global solidarity. Both leaders further agreed to explore avenues of cooperation within BRICS, with a view to advancing shared interests and strengthening further South-South collaboration.

Both Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying cooperation under the ASEAN-South Africa Sectoral Dialogue Partnership framework. Malaysia also expressed its readiness to work closely with the Republic of South Africa to advance shared priorities within ASEAN, including the promotion of regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

Both leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to promoting peace, stability, and justice in the international arena. They noted the active cooperation on key issues within the framework of international organisations, particularly the United Nations (UN), the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the Commonwealth, and reaffirmed their commitment to mutual support for each other’s initiatives and candidatures to international bodies.

Both leaders strongly condemned the atrocities in Gaza and reiterated their steadfast support for the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination and the establishment of a sovereign, viable, contiguous, and independent Palestinian state. They welcomed initiatives aimed at achieving an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire; removal of blockade on Gaza; the protection of all civilians; and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian assistance to those affected. Both leaders emphasised the importance of achieving a just, comprehensive, and solution that would bring lasting peace and stability to the region. Malaysia commended the leadership of the President of the Republic of South Africa for initiating proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning the situation in Gaza.

Both leaders further agreed on the necessity of upholding the international order based on the principles of the UN Charter, including the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states. Both leaders reaffirmed that military action is never a viable means to resolve any conflict, and that a lasting peace must be pursued through diplomacy, dialogue and collective multilateral efforts.

President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed his deep appreciation and sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Government of Malaysia for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit. In return, the President of the Republic of South Africa expressed his keen anticipation of welcoming the Prime Minister of Malaysia at the upcoming G20 Summit to be held from 22 to 23 November 2025 in Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa.

Both leaders reaffirmed their confidence that the outcomes of this visit would further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa, while paving the way towards a brighter, more prosperous, and mutually beneficial future for both nations.

ISSUED BY: THE PRESIDENCY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

Posted on

South Africa, Malaysia to ‘recalibrate’ ties – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

Saturday, October 25, 2025

By Neo Bodumela

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – South Africa and Malaysia are poised to “revive and reposition” relations with a view of deepening ties and expanding trade between the two countries.

This is the word from President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was delivering opening remarks at the Official Talks between South Africa and Malaysia at the official residence of Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Seri Perdana in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.

The President is on a Working Visit to the country as part of a three-nation visit to the Southeast Asia region, which included State Visits to Indonesia and Vietnam.

“The visit that we are undertaking today here is quite an important one and, for us, quite historic because our contact both at trade level and investment level tapered down over the years. [However] today due to your insistence…you have insisted that we should recalibrate our relationship and we should reboot it, revive and reposition it. 

“For me…it should be very much based on how we should deal with each other on trade, on investment and on support for each other on diplomatic matters internationally and otherwise,” the President said.

He noted that with South Africa’s expertise in areas like food production and Malaysia’s proficiency in technological advancements mean that the relationship is mutually beneficial.

“We have learnt a lot from Malaysia. We have learnt from your best practice in many ways. This visit builds on many years of cooperation.

“Of particular interest to our countries, the position that Malaysia occupies as a leading global hub on a number of fronts…semi-conductors, technology and AI as well as areas like food products.

“We do believe that those are areas that we can cooperate in. This, in many ways, provides Malaysia and South Africa with a mutually beneficial opportunity to base our relationship on substantive issues that solidify our goals,”

The President has invited Malaysia to participate at the G20 Leaders’ Summit, to be hosted by South Africa in November 2025.

“Your participation in the G20 is going to lift that summit. We are ready to receive up to 60 Heads of State, and we are delighted that you will be amongst the leaders that we will be having,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Committee Tells School Leadership to Eliminate Culture of Bullying at Milnerton High

Source: APO


.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education has told the principal of Milnerton High School, along with members of the school governing body (SGB) and management team to ensure that the school has an effective anti-bullying policy in place as a matter of urgency.

The committee also, in the presence of senior officials of the Western Cape Department of Education, parents of the bullied learners and representatives of the Western Cape provincial office of the Human Rights Commission, called on the school leadership to ensure that there is a concrete turnaround strategy in place to eliminate, among other things, the deeply entrenched culture of intolerance among the school’s learners.

The committee visited the school yesterday in the wake of the horrific assault on a 16-year old learner by several other boys, who used various objects, including a hockey stick, hose pipe and belt to beat the boy. Before the committee reached the school, it visited the home of the victim at Parklands as a gesture of support to the traumatised family.

The parents told the committee that their trauma has been deepened by the death threats their son has received for telling his parents about the assault.

In the committee’s engagement with the school’s leadership team and SGB, the principal noted that there is anti-bullying policy in place, but when he was asked to show it to the committee, he was unable to do so, leading the committee to conclude that it does not exist. The school’s code of conduct, which was provided by the principal, mentioned anti-bullying in a paragraph but with no tangible plan to address the problem.

When she explained the purpose of the meeting, the Chairperson of the committee, Ms Joy Maimela, said after the committee was aware of this horrendous act from social media, it had asked the office of the provincial Department of Education for a preliminary report on the matter, but it never received it.

The committee welcomed the update that there will be a disciplinary hearing on Saturday, 25 October. It urged the principal to share the outcomes of the disciplinary hearings with the committee the following day. The Human Rights Commission representatives told the committee that their office will also conduct investigations on the matter and share the report of their findings with the committee.

Ms Maimela, said a second session will be convened on the matter, away from the school grounds. She linked the culture of bullying to rugby first team and urged the school to investigate that possibility and uproot it if it exists. Ms Maimela also called on the school to develop an anti-bullying policy with speed, expedite the disciplinary hearing process, and ensure that there is transformation that uproots all the tendencies that stifle change in the school.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Posted on

Journée des Nations Unies : à Beni et Bunia, les autorités saluent l’impact du travail de la Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Partout dans le monde, la communauté internationale célèbre la Journée des Nations Unies, symbole de solidarité et de coopération entre les peuples. En République démocratique du Congo, des cérémonies ont été organisées en Ituri et au Nord-Kivu pour marquer l’édition de cette année, célébrée le 24 octobre. Les autorités ont salué l’engagement des Nations Unies aux côtés des populations congolaises, quatre-vingts ans après l’entrée en vigueur de la Charte de l’ONU.

À Beni, chef-lieu provisoire du Nord-Kivu depuis l’occupation de Goma par les rebelles du M23, elles ont mis en lumière les efforts conjoints menés avec les Nations Unies dans les domaines de la sécurité, de l’assistance humanitaire, de la santé, de l’éducation et du développement local. Dans la province voisine de l’Ituri, le gouverneur a, lui aussi, souligné l’impact de la MONUSCO dans la stabilisation d’un territoire longtemps affecté par l’activisme de groupes armés.

Lors de la cérémonie organisée à la base de la MONUSCO de Mavivi, le vice-gouverneur du Nord-Kivu, le commissaire divisionnaire Louis Segond Karawa, a rendu hommage au travail accompli par les Nations Unies aux côtés des populations congolaises. « Je rends hommage à tous les Casques bleus, hommes et femmes, qui servent ici au péril de leur vie. Leur présence est un symbole fort de solidarité envers notre population », a-t-il déclaré.

Une vitrine des actions de l’ONU dans la région

Ali Garba, chef intérimaire du sous-bureau de la MONUSCO à Beni, a lancé un appel à l’engagement collectif pour la paix : « Nous devons dire non à la guerre, mais aussi participer activement à la paix. Le thème de cette année, “Construisons l’avenir ensemble”, ne peut se concrétiser sans la paix », a-t-il souligné. Après la cérémonie officielle, une exposition a permis aux visiteurs de découvrir les nombreuses interventions de la MONUSCO et des agences des Nations Unies dans les territoires de Beni, Butembo et Lubero.

Des efforts et des résultats visibles

À Bunia, le gouverneur de province, le général Johnny Luboya Nkashama, a mis en avant les interventions des Casques bleus et des agences onusiennes, qui ont permis à des milliers de personnes déplacées de regagner leurs villages d’origine dans les territoires de Djugu et Mahagi, qu’elles avaient quittés à cause de l’insécurité.

Pendant plusieurs années, l’activisme des groupes armés avait contraint des populations entières à fuir leurs localités. Aujourd’hui, la stabilité retrouvée dans certaines zones favorise le retour des déplacés et la reprise des activités agricoles et économiques.

La localité d’Amee, dans le territoire de Mahagi, illustre cette dynamique. Plus de 20 000 personnes y ont regagné leurs villages au cours des trois dernières années.

« La MONUSCO a beaucoup fait dans notre entité, d’abord pour la sécurité de la population et de ses biens, ensuite pour le développement, en construisant au moins cinq ponts, en réhabilitant des routes et en installant l’éclairage public au centre d’Amee. Tout cela permet de relier notre entité à trois groupements (Mbr’bu, Nioka et Ugwero) dont nous étions coupés à cause du délabrement des infrastructures », témoigne le chef de groupement.

Relance des activités agricoles

Dans le groupement de Mbr’bu, toujours en Ituri, la relance agricole est tangible. La production annuelle dépasse désormais dix tonnes de maïs, de haricot et de café. Le président de la fédération locale des commerçants exprime sa satisfaction : « Depuis l’installation de la MONUSCO chez nous, l’insécurité a reculé. Tous les quartiers et champs étaient abandonnés. On ne pouvait pas cultiver. Et la sécurité est revenue : on se rend aux champs sans être inquiétés et, en cas d’attaque, les Casques bleus interviennent rapidement et patrouillent chaque jour. Leur présence a également favorisé la création de champs communautaires, non loin de leur base ».

Ces efforts contribuent aussi au renforcement de la cohésion sociale entre communautés longtemps divisées par les conflits. Le gouverneur s’est félicité de ces avancées : « Là où il n’y avait pas de vie, vous avez vu la vie reprendre. Je suis sûr que, sans eux, nous aurions eu beaucoup plus de difficultés. Les résultats sont palpables. Vous savez que depuis quatre ans que je suis ici, nous avons travaillé en étroite collaboration avec la MONUSCO, de sorte que là où il n’y avait pas de vie avant, en Ituri, vous avez vu la vie reprendre. Je parle ici de la RN27 : quand vous arrivez à Kabarole, vous montez vers Nyakunde, vous allez à Boga, Tchabi… Vous allez à Amee, avec tout ce qu’il y avait eu là-bas, vous allez à Ngote, jusqu’à Djalasiga… Nous sommes très contents. Et même les déplacés sont pris en charge jusqu’à aujourd’hui », a rappelé le gouverneur.

Il a également rendu hommage aux agences des Nations Unies telles que le PAM, le HCR, le PNUD, l’UNFPA, l’UNICEF et l’OMS, saluant leur « sacrifice énorme » et leur engagement constant auprès des populations les plus vulnérables.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

Posted on

De la « performance exceptionnelle » du 10e contingent d’aviation sri-lankaise

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le 22 octobre 2025, à Bria, 130 Casques bleus, dont trois femmes, du 10e contingent d’aviation sri-lankais (SRI AVN 10), ainsi que des officiers d’état-major et des observateurs militaires de la MINUSCA, ont reçu la médaille des Nations Unies. Une reconnaissance pour leurs efforts remarquables consacrés à la protection des civils et au maintien de la paix en République centrafricaine.

Déployé depuis le 6 décembre 2024 dans cette région sensible, le contingent sri-lankais a fait preuve d’une performance exceptionnelle avec plus de 1 200 heures de vol, soit une moyenne de 120 heures par mois, plus de 450 tonnes de fret transportées et plus de 3 000 passagers acheminés. Le contingent a également mené 24 opérations d’évacuation sanitaire, dont cinq missions de nuit, illustrant son rôle vital dans les évacuations d’urgence et témoignant de sa préparation opérationnelle exemplaire, de sa résilience et de son engagement envers la paix.

La cérémonie a vu la présence du Lieutenant-général Humphrey Nyone, Commandant de la Force de la MINUSCA, du Gouverneur de la région du Fertit, du Chef de bureau de la MINUSCA, ainsi que de représentants des Forces de défense et de sécurité centrafricaines.

Dans son allocution, le Lieutenant-général Nyone a salué le professionnalisme du 10e SRI AVN et souligné sa contribution majeure au maintien de la paix et de la sécurité dans le pays. Il a déclaré : « Cette cérémonie n’est pas seulement une remise de médailles ; elle incarne la dévotion, le courage et l’engagement de ce contingent. Aujourd’hui, nous honorons des hommes et des femmes qui sont allés au-delà du devoir dans le service de la paix », a-t-il dit a l’égard des récipiendaires.

De poursuivre, le Commandant de la Force a fait valoir que « Ces médailles symbolisent la fierté, le service désintéressé, la résilience et le sacrifice. Elles reflètent à la fois vos accomplissements individuels et notre volonté collective de promouvoir la paix, la sécurité et l’espoir dans les zones qui en ont le plus besoin ».

Durant son mandat, le 10e contingent sri-lankais a excellé dans divers domaines :  renseignement, surveillance, reconnaissance, transport de troupes, de munitions, de vivres, de carburant et autres fournitures essentielles, tout en menant des missions au-delà de sa zone de responsabilité

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).