Category: MIL-OSI

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Government conveys condolences following crash that claimed 16 lives

Source: Government of South Africa

Government conveys condolences following crash that claimed 16 lives

The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa have expressed their condolences to the bereaved families who lost their loved ones in a bus crash that claimed 16 lives.

The crash occurred in the early hours of Thursday on the N1 near Gulfstream Garage in the Western Cape.

According to reports, the bus was transporting 78 passengers, including children, from Cape Town to Idutywa in the Eastern Cape.

It is alleged that the bus overturned, resulting in 16 fatalities and leaving 20 occupants injured. The injured were transported to Worcester Hospital, while 43 occupants refused medical treatment.

Creecy and Hlengwa have wished a speedy recovery to all those who sustained injuries.

They have also directed the Road Accident Fund (RAF) to provide the bereaved families and the injured with the necessary support.

In addition, Creecy and Hlengwa have instructed the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to investigate the cause of the crash in collaboration with local authorities.

A preliminary investigation report is expected within 48 hours after the RTMC begins its investigation. –SAnews.gov.za

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Strategic partnerships key to youth economic inclusion, says Chikunga

Source: Government of South Africa

Strategic partnerships key to youth economic inclusion, says Chikunga

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has called for stronger strategic partnerships between government and the private sector to accelerate youth economic inclusion, women’s empowerment, food security, skills development, and inclusive economic growth.

The Minister made the call at the KFC Africa Impact Report Launch in Johannesburg on Wednesday.
Held under the theme: “Private Sector as a Partner in Youth Economic Inclusion and Food Security”, KFC Africa’s Impact Report highlights the company’s contribution to youth employment, entrepreneurship, and food security through three key pillars.

The first focuses on creating jobs at scale by providing employment opportunities and skills development within the quick service restaurant sector, while the second showcases the company’s franchise model as a vehicle for accelerating small business growth by expanding Black-owned enterprises and advancing economic empowerment.

The third pillar, Add Hope, highlights KFC Africa’s support for vulnerable communities through its feeding programme, which has provided more than 180 million meals to children since 2009 to support school nutrition and household food security.

Together, the three pillars demonstrate the company’s efforts to promote employment, enterprise development and social impact across South Africa.

Delivering her keynote address, Chikunga commended KFC Africa for its contribution to youth employment through its workforce and its participation in the Youth Employment Service (YES), a public-private partnership that has enabled more than 200 000 young South Africans from being labelled as “unemployed” to being registered as “employed” through a 12-month work experience placement in the private sector.

She said the company’s impact report demonstrated how partnerships between business and government could create employment opportunities, support Black-owned enterprises through franchising and contribute to food security initiatives.

Chikunga urged companies operating across the food, agriculture, hospitality, and distribution sectors to expand opportunities for young people through skills development, enterprise support and integration into supply chains.

“Our young people must be trained, integrated, and transitioned into viable businesses across the food, agricultural value chains, and related industries — from primary production to logistics and distribution, to the food services and hospitality sector, and into the digital platforms that increasingly mediate all of these.

“Every young South African who enters an agricultural value chain, or a food services enterprise, or a hospitality business, must have an exit pathway in place. This is what youth economic inclusion means, substantively. It is the substantive integration of young people into productive enterprises, on terms that give them ownership, agency, and the substantive prospect of accumulation,” the Minister said.

She said emerging Black farmers, particularly women and persons with disabilities, should be supported to transition into commercial agribusinesses through technical support, access to finance, market opportunities and supply chain integration.

“The multiplier effect of a young farmer transitioning into commercial scale is substantively higher than the multiplier effect of most other sectors of the economy. The private sector must recognise this — and act on it.”

Chikunga also highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as an opportunity to help young entrepreneurs expand beyond local markets into continental and international trade.

She called for greater investment in youth-owned small businesses through franchise development programmes and stronger integration of small enterprises into corporate value chains.

The Minister further called for greater investment in the digital economy, saying expanding affordable internet access and digital opportunities would help young people participate more fully in the modern economy.

“The digital and platform economy is one of the substantive frontiers of the twenty-first century economic mission. Our young people are on that frontier already. The private sector must meet them there,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Nearly 2 million auto-assessed as SARS introduces enhancements

Source: Government of South Africa

Nearly 2 million auto-assessed as SARS introduces enhancements

As the 2026 tax filing season gets underway, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced a range of digital tools to improve the taxpayer experience, with millions of South Africans being auto-assessed.

In a statement on Thursday, SARS said the enhancements are designed to make tax compliance simpler, faster and more secure for millions of taxpayers. 

“As at the end of 1 July 2026, more than 1.9 million taxpayers were auto-assessed, with about R8 billion refunds paid out in 72 hours.

“The improvements form part of SARS’s commitment to excellent service and its vision to build a smart, modern SARS with unquestionable integrity. SARS aims to give clarity and certainty, and to make it easy for taxpayers to comply with their obligations,” the revenue collector said.

SARS added that enhancements aim to “create a seamless end-to-end filing experience that covers every stage of the taxpayer journey”.

“The improvements are expected to reduce administrative burdens, shorten turnaround times, and improve taxpayer satisfaction.

“SARS expects more than six million taxpayers to receive Auto Assessments this year. By using information from employers, banks, medical schemes, retirement funds, and other third-party providers, SARS can pre-populate returns and significantly reduce the information taxpayers need to capture themselves.

“Taxpayers selected for Auto Assessment between 1 and 12 July 2026 should not rush to SARS Service Centres. Instead, they should wait for official SARS communication and review their assessments through eFiling, the SARS MobiApp, or other authorised digital channels,” the revenue service said.

Key enhancements introduced include: 

  • More accurate Auto Assessments driven by expanded third-party data sources.
  • Expanded digital self-service capabilities through eFiling, SARS MobiApp, and SARS Online Query System.
  • Enhanced profile security through biometric authentication, two-factor authentication, and device-level security controls.
  • Expanded support through the Lwazi AI virtual assistant.
  • The ability to upload supporting documents through WhatsApp.
  • Delivery of Notices of Assessment and Statements of Account through WhatsApp and other digital channels.
  • Improved integration of taxpayer information and enhanced pre-population of returns.
  • SARS has created necessary capacity to cater for increased volumes of taxpayers interacting with it through the various channels

“Our goal is to make compliance effortless for honest taxpayers. Every enhancement introduced this Filing Season is designed to improve service, reduce complexity, and give taxpayers greater confidence when engaging with SARS.

“We want taxpayers to spend less time dealing with administration and more time benefiting from our modern digital services,” SARS Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhubu said.

The Commissioner warned that although security systems have been bolstered, taxpayers should remain vigilant against scams and criminality.

“Taxpayers should be cautious of anyone who guarantees a refund or requests sensitive information without proper verification. Protecting personal information remains a shared responsibility between SARS and taxpayers.

“Filing Season 2026 demonstrates the progress SARS continues to make in modernising tax administration and improving the taxpayer experience.

“Through enhanced Auto Assessments, stronger digital platforms, improved security, expanded self-service channels, and innovative solutions such as WhatsApp functionality, we are making compliance easier than ever before,” Makhubu said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Binance Surpasses $1 Billion in Assets Under Management for Stocks Trading in 30 Days

Source: APO


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Binance (www.Binance.com), the world’s leading blockchain ecosystem and digital asset infrastructure provider, today announced that stock trading on its platform has surpassed $1 billion in assets under management (AUM) in 30 days since launch. The milestone is accompanied by more than $3 billion in total trading volume since the product went live on June 1, 2026. 

Stock trading on Binance gives users access to over 7,000 U.S. stocks and ETFs (https://apo-opa.co/4v7gJTs), settled in stablecoins, directly within the Binance app alongside their existing crypto holdings.

Key figures since launch include:

  • More than $1 billion in AUM reached within 30 days of launch 
  • Over $3 billion in total trading volume since June 1, 2026
  • Average daily inflows of $42 million
  • Approximately 73% of users come from emerging markets
  • 1 in 7 visitors to Binance’s stock trading page registered an account; of those new sign-ups, nearly 90% went on to place a trade
  • Fractional orders averaged 35% of equity trading volume, with users able to participate from as little as $5
  • Approximately 71% of equity holdings allocated to the Technology sector, with almost half (48%) of that directed toward Semiconductors

“A billion dollars in 30 days is a sign of the demand that has been waiting decades for a door to walk through. The walls that kept most of the world out of U.S. stocks were never as solid as they looked. We built this for the hundreds of millions of people who never had a way in,” said Shunyet Jan, Head of Exchange and Trading at Binance.

Closing a Longstanding Access Gap

According to Binance Research (https://apo-opa.co/3SIAL9s), only around 11% of adults worldwide currently hold a brokerage account. U.S. equities represent roughly half of global stock market capitalisation, yet foreign investors hold only around 18% of that market, and equity participation outside the United States broadly sits below 20%. 

Stock trading on Binance addresses this by allowing users to access U.S. stocks and ETFs through stablecoins and BNB, without a traditional brokerage account. Approximately 73% of users come from emerging markets, the regions which traditional brokerages have historically underserved. Meanwhile, fractional orders averaged 35% of equity trading volume, peaking at 72% on June 10 before stabilising near 20% as smaller-size traders demonstrated preference for accessible, fractional exposure of stocks. This reflects one of the core advantages of acquiring stocks through Binance: removing the capital barrier of full-share ownership and allowing users to participate with amounts as small as $5.

User behaviour points to deliberate investing rather than speculation. Nearly 740 of the 7,000 available stocks and ETFs have already been traded. Approximately 71% of equity holdings are allocated to the Technology sector, with 48% of that directed toward Semiconductors, reflecting a clear tilt toward AI-related themes. The Technology sector generates approximately 23 times the trading volume of other sectors, underscoring the conviction that Binance users have behind these positions. The allocation patterns are consistent with a financially literate user base actively managing sector exposure rather than trading indiscriminately.

Industry Outlook

Stock trading on Binance crossing $1 billion in AUM within 30 days is an early data point in a structural shift that extends beyond a single product. Today, only around 700 million brokerage accounts exist globally, while crypto exchanges have already built distribution infrastructure reaching hundreds of millions of users in markets where traditional brokerages have limited presence. Binance Research projects that by 2031, crypto exchanges as a category could channel $2 trillion in incremental capital into global equity markets and bring 300 million new investors into the asset class.

The near-term trajectory supports the thesis. Based on current growth, Binance Research projects that AUM from stock trading on Binance could exceed $10 billion by the end of 2026, less than seven months after launch. The next wave of equity market participation is unlikely to come from traditional brokerages expanding their reach. It is more likely to come from crypto-native platforms that have already solved the distribution problem, and are now solving the access problem to bring the next few billion users onboard.

This milestone follows the recent achievement by bStocks, Binance’s tokenized 1:1 U.S. securities, which hit $100 million in AUM within two weeks of launch (https://apo-opa.co/4ePxXi9). Together, stock trading and bStocks are part of Binance’s broader effort to expand user access to assets beyond digital assets. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Binance.

About Binance: 
​Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Binance is trusted by more than 320 million people in 100+ countries for its industry-leading security, transparency, trading engine speed, protections for investors, and unmatched portfolio of digital asset products and offerings from trading and finance to education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 features. Binance is devoted to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people around the world with crypto as the fundamental means. 

For more information, visit: https://www.Binance.com  

Disclaimer: Direct stocks are available only to eligible users and subject to local regulatory requirements and product availability. Securities are subject to market and liquidity risk, price volatility, and potential loss of capital. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. Users should make an independent assessment of any transaction in light of their own objectives and circumstances and consult their own advisers where appropriate. 

Disclaimer: Nest Trading Limited acts as your introducing broker and routes your orders for Securities to its clearing broker partner, Alpaca Securities LLC, for execution, clearing, settlement and custody. Binance does not handle or custody your Securities. Securities are subject to high market and liquidity risk and price volatility, particularly outside traditional market hours. The value of your investment may go down or up and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Past performance is not a reliable predictor of future performance. Before trading, you should make an independent assessment of the appropriateness of the transaction in light of your own objectives and circumstances, including the risks and potential benefits. Consult your own advisers, where appropriate. This information should not be construed as financial or investment advice. Binance may receive payment for order flow remuneration for directing your orders. For more information, see the applicable Terms of Use, Securities Trading Product Terms and Risk Warning.

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Binance dépasse le milliard de dollars d’actifs gérés pour le trading d’actions en 30 jours

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Binance (www.Binance.com), Binance, leader mondial des écosystèmes blockchain et des infrastructures d’actifs numériques, a annoncé aujourd’hui que les opérations boursières sur sa plateforme ont dépassé 1 milliard de dollars d’actifs sous gestion en 30 jours depuis leur lancement. Cette étape importante s’accompagne d’un volume total de transactions de plus de 3 milliards de dollars depuis la mise en service du produit le 1er juin 2026.

Le trading d’actions sur Binance permet aux utilisateurs d’accéder à plus de 7 000 actions et ETF américains, réglés en stablecoins, directement depuis l’application Binance, parallèlement à leurs avoirs en cryptomonnaies existants.

Voici les chiffres clés depuis le lancement :

  • Plus d’un milliard de dollars d’actifs sous gestion atteints dans les 30 jours suivant le lancement
  • Plus de 3 milliards de dollars de volume total de transactions depuis le 1er juin 2026
  • Des entrées moyennes quotidiennes de 42 millions de dollars
  • Environ 73 % des utilisateurs proviennent des marchés émergents
  • 1 visiteur sur 7 de la page de trading d’actions de Binance a créé un compte ; parmi ces nouveaux inscrits, près de 90 % ont ensuite effectué une transaction
  • Les ordres fractionnés ont représenté en moyenne 35 % du volume de négociation d’actions, les utilisateurs pouvant participer à partir de seulement 5 dollars
  • Environ 71 % des participations en capital sont allouées au secteur technologique, dont près de la moitié (48 %) est orientée vers les semi-conducteurs

« Un milliard de dollars en 30 jours témoigne d’une demande qui attendait depuis des décennies qu’une porte s’ouvre. Les barrières qui empêchaient la majeure partie du monde d’accéder aux actions américaines n’ont jamais été aussi solides qu’elles en avaient l’air. Nous avons mis en place cette plateforme pour les centaines de millions de personnes qui n’avaient jamais eu la possibilité d’y accéder », a déclaré Shunyet Jan, responsable des opérations boursières et du trading chez Binance.

Combler un déficit d’accès de longue date

Selon Binance Research, seuls environ 11 % des adultes dans le monde possèdent actuellement un compte de courtage. Les actions américaines représentent environ la moitié de la capitalisation boursière mondiale, mais les investisseurs étrangers ne détiennent qu’environ 18 % de ce marché, et la participation aux actions en dehors des États-Unis reste globalement inférieure à 20 %. 

Le trading d’actions sur Binance répond à ce problème en permettant aux utilisateurs d’accéder aux actions et aux ETF américains via des stablecoins et du BNB, sans avoir besoin d’un compte de courtage traditionnel. Environ 73 % des utilisateurs proviennent des marchés émergents, des régions qui ont historiquement été négligées par les courtiers traditionnels. Par ailleurs, les ordres fractionnés ont représenté en moyenne 35 % du volume des transactions sur actions, atteignant un pic de 72 % le 10 juin avant de se stabiliser autour de 20 %, les petits investisseurs ayant manifesté leur préférence pour une exposition fractionnée et accessible aux actions. Cela reflète l’un des principaux avantages de l’acquisition d’actions via Binance : la suppression de la barrière financière liée à la détention d’actions entières et la possibilité pour les utilisateurs de participer avec des montants aussi modestes que 5 dollars.

Le comportement des utilisateurs témoigne d’un investissement délibéré plutôt que de la spéculation. Près de 740 des 7 000 actions et ETF disponibles ont déjà fait l’objet de transactions. Environ 71 % des participations en capital sont allouées au secteur technologique, dont 48 % aux semi-conducteurs, ce qui reflète une nette préférence pour les thèmes liés à l’IA. Le secteur technologique génère environ 23 fois le volume de transactions des autres secteurs, ce qui souligne la conviction dont font preuve les utilisateurs de Binance derrière ces positions. Les schémas d’allocation correspondent à une base d’utilisateurs dotés de connaissances financières qui gèrent activement leur exposition sectorielle plutôt que de trader sans discernement.

Perspectives du secteur

Le fait que les opérations boursières sur Binance aient dépassé le milliard de dollars d’actifs gérés en l’espace de 30 jours constitue un premier indicateur d’un changement structurel qui va bien au-delà d’un simple produit. Aujourd’hui, on ne compte qu’environ 700 millions de comptes de courtage dans le monde, tandis que les plateformes d’échange de cryptomonnaies ont déjà mis en place une infrastructure de distribution touchant des centaines de millions d’utilisateurs sur des marchés où les courtiers traditionnels ont une présence limitée. Binance Research prévoit que d’ici 2031, les plateformes d’échange de cryptomonnaies, en tant que catégorie, pourraient injecter 2 000 milliards de dollars de capitaux supplémentaires sur les marchés boursiers mondiaux et attirer 300 millions de nouveaux investisseurs vers cette catégorie d’actifs.

La trajectoire à court terme corrobore cette hypothèse. Sur la base de la croissance actuelle, Binance Research prévoit que les actifs gérés issus du trading d’actions sur Binance pourraient dépasser les 10 milliards de dollars d’ici fin 2026, soit moins de sept mois après le lancement. La prochaine vague de participation au marché boursier ne devrait pas provenir de l’expansion des courtiers traditionnels. Elle devrait plutôt émaner de plateformes d’échange de cryptomonnaie qui ont déjà résolu le problème de la distribution et s’attaquent désormais à celui de l’accès afin d’attirer les prochains milliards d’utilisateurs.

Cette étape importante fait suite au récent succès de bStocks, les titres américains tokenisés au ratio 1:1 de Binance, qui ont atteint 100 millions de dollars d’actifs sous gestion dans les deux semaines suivant leur lancement. Le trading d’actions et bStocks s’inscrivent conjointement dans le cadre de l’effort plus large de Binance visant à élargir l’accès des utilisateurs à des actifs au-delà des actifs numériques.

Distribué par APO Group pour Binance.

À propos de Binance : 
Binance est un écosystème blockchain mondial de premier plan qui sous-tend la plus grande bourse de cryptomonnaie au monde en termes de volume de transactions et d’utilisateurs enregistrés. Binance bénéficie de la confiance de plus de 320 millions de personnes dans plus de 100 pays pour sa sécurité, sa transparence, la rapidité de son moteur de trading, ses protections pour les investisseurs et son portefeuille inégalé de produits et d’offres d’actifs numériques, allant du trading et de la finance à l’éducation, la recherche, le bien social, les paiements, les services institutionnels et les fonctionnalités Web3. Binance se consacre à la création d’un écosystème crypto inclusif afin d’accroître la liberté monétaire et l’accès aux services financiers pour les personnes du monde entier, en utilisant la crypto comme moyen fondamental.

Pour plus d’informations, rendez-vous sur : https://www.Binance.com  

Avis de non-responsabilité : Les actions directes ne sont accessibles qu’aux utilisateurs éligibles et sont soumises aux exigences réglementaires locales ainsi qu’à la disponibilité des produits. Les titres sont exposés aux risques de marché et de liquidité, à la volatilité des cours et à une perte potentielle de capital. Ce contenu est fourni à titre informatif uniquement et ne doit pas être interprété comme un conseil financier ou d’investissement. Les utilisateurs doivent procéder à une évaluation indépendante de toute transaction en fonction de leurs propres objectifs et de leur situation personnelle, et consulter leurs propres conseillers le cas échéant. 

Avis de non-responsabilité : Nest Trading Limited agit en tant que courtier introducteur et transmet vos ordres sur titres à son courtier partenaire, Alpaca Securities LLC, pour exécution, compensation, règlement et conservation. Binance ne gère ni ne conserve vos titres. Les titres sont exposés à des risques élevés liés au marché et à la liquidité, ainsi qu’à la volatilité des cours, en particulier en dehors des heures d’ouverture habituelles des marchés. La valeur de votre investissement peut baisser ou augmenter et il est possible que vous ne récupériez pas le montant investi. Vous êtes seul responsable de vos décisions d’investissement et Binance ne saurait être tenu responsable des pertes que vous pourriez subir. Les performances passées ne constituent pas un indicateur fiable des performances futures. Avant d’effectuer du trading, vous devez procéder à une évaluation indépendante de la pertinence de la transaction au regard de vos propres objectifs et de votre situation personnelle, y compris les risques et les avantages potentiels. Consultez vos propres conseillers, le cas échéant. Ces informations ne doivent pas être interprétées comme des conseils financiers ou d’investissement. Binance peut percevoir une rémunération au titre du flux d’ordres pour l’acheminement de vos ordres. Pour plus d’informations, consultez les Conditions d’utilisation, les Conditions relatives aux produits issus du trading de titres et l’Avertissement sur les risques applicables.

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Lancement de My Tropical Timber, la plateforme de l’Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux (ATIBT) dédiée aux professionnels du bois tropical : un démarrage prometteur !

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Lancée par l’Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux (ATIBT) (www.ATIBT.org), la plateforme digitale My Tropical Timber (www.MyTropicalTimber.org) connaît un démarrage particulièrement encourageant. Conçue pour faciliter l’accès à des informations fiables sur les bois tropicaux, identifier des fournisseurs et promouvoir une filière forêt-bois durable, légale et responsable, elle attire déjà des professionnels de plusieurs continents.

Au-delà d’un simple annuaire ou d’une base de données technique, My Tropical Timber a été pensée comme un véritable espace de partage de connaissances et d’aide à la décision, au service des architectes, négociants, transformateurs, industriels, prescripteurs et acheteurs de bois tropicaux dans le monde entier.

Des résultats encourageants dès les premières semaines

Les premières données d’utilisation témoignent d’un intérêt croissant pour la plateforme et de sa visibilité grandissante auprès des professionnels.

Au cours des 28 derniers jours, My Tropical Timber a enregistré :

  • 585 utilisateurs actifs, soit une progression de 287 % ;
  • plus de 2 500 pages consultées ;
  • 552 nouveaux visiteurs ;
  • une progression de 2 260 % des visites issues des moteurs de recherche ;
  • une audience active sur plusieurs continents, avec une forte présence à Singapour, en France et en Allemagne.

Ces résultats illustrent le besoin exprimé par les acteurs du marché de disposer d’un outil centralisé, fiable et accessible pour mieux connaître les essences tropicales et les entreprises engagées dans une démarche de gestion durable des forêts.

Une plateforme de référence pour les professionnels du bois tropical

My Tropical Timber met à disposition des professionnels une série de fonctionnalités destinées à simplifier leurs recherches et à sécuriser leurs décisions :

  • identifier des fournisseurs de bois tropicaux ;
  • rechercher des entreprises selon leur localisation ou leurs certifications ;
  • comparer les caractéristiques techniques des essences ;
  • découvrir des essences moins connues et des alternatives adaptées à leurs besoins ;
  • accéder à des données techniques fiables sur les essences tropicales, notamment grâce à l’intégration des fiches de référence Tropix développées par le CIRAD;
  • trouver des bois certifiés FSC et/ou PEFC-PAFC, issus d’une gestion durable des forêts.

Disponible en français, anglais, espagnol et chinois, la plateforme s’adresse à une audience internationale et contribue à promouvoir le principe du « bon bois pour le bon usage », tout en favorisant une meilleure valorisation de la diversité des essences tropicales.

Pour toute demande de référencement d’entreprise : https://apo-opa.co/4aAw6N4

Un lancement marqué par des rendez-vous clés

Le lancement officiel de My Tropical Timber a été célébré le 10 mai 2025 lors d’un webinaire international organisé en français et en anglais. Cette rencontre a permis de présenter les fonctionnalités de la plateforme ainsi que les bénéfices qu’elle apporte aux professionnels du secteur. Face à l’intérêt suscité, l’ATIBT envisage d’organiser de nouvelles sessions, notamment en espagnol et en chinois, afin d’accompagner son développement auprès de nouveaux publics.

La plateforme a également été présentée lors du Carrefour International du Bois de Nantes, l’un des principaux événements européens de la filière. Les nombreux échanges avec les professionnels présents ont confirmé la pertinence de l’outil et son potentiel pour accompagner les décisions techniques et commerciales des entreprises.

Perspectives

Forte de cette dynamique, l’ATIBT (www.ATIBT.org) poursuit le développement de My Tropical Timber avec plusieurs objectifs :

  • enrichissant régulièrement les données disponibles sur la plateforme ;
  • augmentant le nombre d’entreprises et de fournisseurs référencés ;
  • développant de nouvelles fonctionnalités répondant aux besoins des utilisateurs ;
  • renforçant sa visibilité internationale grâce à des webinaires et à des événements professionnels ;
  • favorisant une meilleure connaissance et une utilisation plus diversifiée des bois tropicaux issus d’une gestion durable des forêts.

L’ambition est claire : faire de My Tropical Timber un outil incontournable pour tous les professionnels souhaitant accéder à une information fiable, promouvoir des pratiques responsables et valoriser durablement les ressources forestières tropicales.

Un projet rendu possible grâce au soutien de ses bailleurs et partenaires

Le développement de My Tropical Timber est le fruit d’un travail collectif coordonné par l’ATIBT et rendu possible grâce au soutien de ses bailleurs et partenaires financiers, Sustainable Tropical Timber Coalition (STTC), de la European Timber Trade Federation (ETTF), de l’initiative IDH The Sustainable Trade Initiative, du projet Appui au Secteur Privé Forêts-Bois (Pacte Vert Cameroun) financé par l’UE, du projet ConForMa financé par le FFEM, du projet Tropical Timber Trade Facility, financé par le ministère fédéral allemand de la Coopération économique et du Développement (BMZ) et soutenu par la Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, ainsi que de la Commission des Forêts d’Afrique Centrale (COMIFAC).

Le CIRAD contribue par ailleurs au projet à travers la mise à disposition des données et fiches techniques Tropix, qui constituent une référence internationale pour la connaissance et la valorisation des essences tropicales.

Leur engagement en faveur d’une filière forêt-bois tropical durable, transparente et responsable a permis de transformer cette ambition en réalité et d’offrir aux professionnels du secteur un outil innovant, accessible et à vocation internationale.

Distribué par APO Group pour Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux (ATIBT).

Contact presse :
Nathalie Bouville
Responsable Communication
Nathalie.bouville@atibt.org
+33695803250
Whatsapp +24106005796

À propos de l’ATIBT (www.ATIBT.org) : 
Créée en 1951 à la demande de la FAO et de l’OCDE, l’ATIBT est l’organisation professionnelle internationale de référence pour la filière forêt-bois tropical. Elle rassemble des acteurs publics et privés issus de 28 pays et œuvre pour la promotion d’une filière durable et responsable, le commerce légal et éthique des bois tropicaux, la gestion durable des forêts tropicales et le développement d’outils innovants au service des professionnels.

Site internet : www.ATIBT.org

Media files

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Launch of My Tropical Timber, International Technical Association for Tropical Timber’s (ATIBT) platform for tropical timber professionals: off to a promising start

Source: APO – Report:

Launched by the International Technical Association for Tropical Timber (ATIBT) (www.ATIBT.org), the My Tropical Timber (www.MyTropicalTimber.org) digital platform is off to a particularly encouraging start. Designed to facilitate access to reliable information on tropical timber, identify suppliers, and promote a sustainable, legal, and responsible forestry and timber industry, it is already attracting professionals from several continents.

More than just a directory or technical database, My Tropical Timber was conceived as a true space for knowledge sharing and decision support, serving architects, traders, processors, manufacturers, specifiers, and buyers of tropical timber worldwide.

Encouraging results from the very first weeks

Initial usage data reflects growing interest in the platform and its increasing visibility among professionals.

Over the past 28 days, My Tropical Timber has recorded:

  • 585 active users, representing a 287% increase;
  • more than 2,500 page views;
  • 552 new visitors;
  • a 2,260% increase in visits from search engines;
  • an active audience across several continents, with a strong presence in Singapore, France, and Germany.

These results illustrate the need expressed by market stakeholders for a centralized, reliable, and accessible tool to better understand tropical timber species and companies committed to sustainable forest management.

A go-to platform for tropical timber professionals

My Tropical Timber provides professionals with a range of features designed to simplify their research and support informed decision-making:

  • identify tropical timber suppliers;
  • search for companies by location or certifications;
  • compare the technical characteristics of wood species;
  • discover lesser-known species and alternatives suited to their needs;
  • access reliable technical data on tropical wood species, particularly through the integration of Tropix reference sheets developed by CIRAD;
  • find FSC- and/or PEFC-PAFC-certified wood sourced from sustainably managed forests.

Available in French, English, Spanish, and Chinese, the platform is aimed at an international audience and helps promote the principle of “the right wood for the right use,” while encouraging better utilization of the diversity of tropical wood species.

For all company listing requests: https://apo-opa.co/4aAw6N4

A Launch Marked by Key Events

The official launch of My Tropical Timber was celebrated on May 10, 2025, during an international webinar held in French and English. This event provided an opportunity to showcase the platform’s features and the benefits it offers to industry professionals. Given the interest generated, ATIBT plans to organize additional sessions, notably in Spanish and Chinese, to support the platform’s expansion to new audiences.

The platform was also presented at the Carrefour International du Bois in Nantes, one of the industry’s leading European events. Extensive discussions with attending professionals confirmed the tool’s relevance and its potential to support companies’ technical and commercial decisions.

Outlook

Building on this momentum, ATIBT is continuing to develop My Tropical Timber with several objectives in mind:

  • regularly expanding the data available on the platform;
  • increasing the number of listed companies and suppliers;
  • developing new features that meet users’ needs;
  • enhancing its international visibility through webinars and professional events;
  • promoting greater awareness and more diverse use of tropical timber sourced from sustainably managed forests.

The goal is clear: to make My Tropical Timber an indispensable tool for all professionals seeking reliable information, promoting responsible practices, and ensuring the sustainable use of tropical forest resources.

A project made possible thanks to the support of its donors and partners

The development of My Tropical Timber is the result of a collective effort coordinated by ATIBT and made possible thanks to the support of its donors and financial partners: the Sustainable Tropical Timber Coalition (STTC), the European Timber Trade Federation (ETTF), the IDH Sustainable Trade Initiative, the “Support for the Private Forestry and Timber Sector” project (Cameroon Green Pact) funded by the EU; the ConForMa project funded by the FFEM; the Tropical Timber Trade Facility project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH; and the Central African Forest Commission (COMIFAC).

CIRAD also contributes to the project by providing Tropix data and technical data sheets, which serve as an international reference for knowledge and the promotion of tropical tree species.

Their commitment to a sustainable, transparent, and responsible tropical forestry and timber sector has made it possible to turn this ambition into reality and to offer industry professionals an innovative, accessible, and internationally oriented tool.

– on behalf of Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux (ATIBT).

Press Contact:
Nathalie Bouville
Communications Manager
Nathalie.bouville@atibt.org
+33695803250
WhatsApp +24106005796

About ATIBT (www.ATIBT.org):
Founded in 1951 at the request of the FAO and the OECD, ATIBT is the leading international professional organization for the tropical forestry and timber sector. It brings together public and private stakeholders from 28 countries and works to promote a sustainable and responsible industry, the legal and ethical trade in tropical timber, the sustainable management of tropical forests, and the development of innovative tools for industry professionals.

Website: www.ATIBT.org

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Uganda: Musasizi tasks MPs to monitor budget implementation in their constituencies

Source: APO – Report:

The Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi has urged Members of Parliament to monitor implementation of the national budget in their constituencies, saying effective oversight is not only their constitutional mandate but also key to earning the confidence of voters.

Addressing MPs during their induction on Wednesday, 01 July 2026 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Musasizi said Parliament’s role extends beyond approving the national budget to ensuring that public funds translate into improved service delivery.

“Budget approval is the beginning, not the end. Track whether funds reach the people they were intended for,” he said, urging MPs to ensure value for money sent to their local governments.

Drawing from his experience of serving as an MP for 15 consecutive years, he encouraged legislators to regularly engage local government officials and communities to assess the progress of government-funded projects.

“Most of the money goes to your districts, it goes to your sub-counties. It is important that you ask the Chief Administrative Officer in writing; ask him or her the progress of certain projects, ask If you can together visit those projects, if for example schools have teachers and if they are teaching,” Musasizi said.

He added that such engagement strengthens accountability and enhances an MP’s connection with constituents.

“These things are important to bring you back to Parliament. If you want to be a good Member, sample some parishes under Parish Development Model, meet them, ask them whether they are receiving money in time and what they are using it for,” said Musasizi.

The Minister also revealed plans to strengthen budget discipline by ensuring supplementary expenditure is limited to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances as prescribed in the Public Finance Management Act.

Kassanda North County MP, Hon. Patrick Oshabe, raised concern over delays by the Ministry in submitting budget documents to Parliament, saying the practice limits legislators’ ability to scrutinise government proposals.

“When you became a minister, I thought things would change. Members do not have enough time to scrutinise these documents. Quite often we debate a national budget in one day. Why don’t we have mandatory deadlines?” Oshabe asked.

Kampala Woman MP, Hon. Shamim Malende asked the Minister to address public concerns over double taxation, while the Second Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Crispus Kiyonga called for investment in infrastructure in areas earmarked for industrial parks.

“The Uganda Investment Authority mapped out land for industrial parks country wide but in many of the areas there is no action yet. I think they could be a tool to help achieve the desired ten-fold growth,” Kiyonga said.

The National Planning Authority Chairperson, Prof. Pamela Mbabazi, who made a presentation on the National Development Plan IV, called on MPs to push for legislations that support Uganda Vision 2040, which aims at growing Uganda’s economy to US$500 billion by 2040.

“Parliament is supposed to play critical roles to achieve this vision, including legislation, appropriation, oversight of all Government programmes in line with the grand strategy, debating in line with the Vision,” Mbabazi said. ​

– on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

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Seychelles: President Herminie Joins Reception Honouring 250 Years of United States Independence

Source: APO – Report:

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Against the backdrop of two historic national anniversaries, President Dr Patrick Herminie this evening joined Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Seychelles, Mr Adham Loutfi, for a reception commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America at Canopy by Hilton Seychelles, Anse La Mouche.

The occasion brought together national leaders, members of the diplomatic corps and invited guests in recognition of the enduring partnership between Seychelles and the United States, as the two nations also mark 50 years of diplomatic relations.

Also in attendance were First Lady Mrs Veronique Herminie, Vice-President Mr Sebastien Pillay, Principal Minister Mr Wallace Cosgrow, Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora Mr Barry Faure, Cabinet Ministers, ambassadors, Mayor of Victoria Ms Josie Michaud. and other distinguished guests.

Delivering the welcome address, Chargé d’Affaires Mr Adham Loutfi reflected on the longstanding friendship between the two countries, describing it as one founded on mutual respect, shared democratic values, and longstanding cooperation. He noted that while the evening celebrated 250 years of American independence, it also coincided with Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee of Independence and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Mr Loutfi highlighted the growing partnership between Seychelles and the United States in areas including maritime security, financial integrity, cultural exchanges, and efforts to combat drug trafficking. He also welcomed recent agreements between the Seychelles Defence Forces and the New Mexico National Guard, as well as cooperation between the Regional Coordination Operations Centre and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, describing them as longterm investments in regional security, institutional trust, and shared prosperity.

Proposing a toast on behalf of the Government of Seychelles, Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora Mr Barry Faure reaffirmed the importance of the relationship between the two countries and conveyed Seychelles’ congratulations to the Government and people of the United States on the historic milestone.

“As we celebrate this remarkable anniversary, we also celebrate a friendship that has matured over five decades. The relationship between Seychelles and the United States continues to be guided by mutual respect, shared interests and constructive dialogue, and we remain committed to strengthening that partnership for the benefit of our peoples.”

Minister Faure said the two countries had developed a longstanding record of cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including security, environmental protection, education. and economic development, while continuing to work together on regional and international issues of common concern.

“Our cooperation has demonstrated what can be achieved when nations work together in a spirit of trust and respect. As we look to the future, Seychelles values the United States as a longstanding partner, and we look forward to expanding our collaboration while advancing peace, stability and sustainable development in our region and beyond.”

The evening concluded with a ceremonial toast celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between Seychelles and the United States, reaffirming the enduring friendship, mutual respect and shared commitment that continue to strengthen the partnership between the two nations. 

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Eskom receives report on alleged irregular diesel procurement

Source: Government of South Africa

Eskom receives report on alleged irregular diesel procurement

Eskom has received a report on the independent investigation into possible irregularities relating to the procurement of diesel fuel and storage contracts.

According to Eskom, the investigation was originally launched in March 2025 by the power utility’s Group Investigations and Security (GIS) function following “monitoring of contract performance during operational emergencies” involving load shedding early last year, as well as tip-offs.

“The independent forensic firm has delivered its comprehensive report, and the matter is progressing through the required internal corporate governance, legal review and quality assurance processes to ensure that all findings strictly meet the necessary evidentiary and procedural standards to support any disciplinary and legal action.

“As part of strengthening the evidentiary base of the investigation, Eskom previously expanded the scope of work associated with the management of the contracts following the interim report, to include further document analysis, supplementary interviews, and digital forensic reviews of key records,” the power utility explained.

Eskom Group Chief Executive (GCE) Dan Marokane has assured the public that the power utility is handling the matter with precision.

“We remain committed to taking the corrective actions on the findings of this investigation with the appropriate level of legal thoroughness given what is at stake.

“We will update stakeholders at the end of the quality assurance process, which is expected to be by the end of July,” Marokane said.

The matter has been reported to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) for investigation.

Eskom stated it will temporarily withhold specific details of the findings due to the sensitive ongoing legal and disciplinary procedures.

“Considering the internal processes currently underway as well as the consequence management steps Eskom is already taking, and may need to further take, to address the identified procurement and contract management breaches relating to this matter, and the possibility of criminal prosecution…Eskom is not in a position to engage on the details or comment further at this stage, so as not to jeopardise the next stage of the process.

“Eskom supports and encourages the reporting of any concerns or alleged wrongdoing through its established whistleblowing and reporting mechanisms and treats all such information with the necessary seriousness and confidentiality,” the power utility said. – SAnews.gov.za

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