Category: MIL-OSI

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South Africa uses year of historical significance to recommit to constitutionalism, multilateralism and youth empowerment

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa uses year of historical significance to recommit to constitutionalism, multilateralism and youth empowerment

By Ronald Lamola, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation 

This year, South Africa commemorates two defining milestones in our democratic journey: the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976 and the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution. 

Both milestones remind us that democracy is neither inevitable nor self-sustaining: it is built through sacrifice, protected through active citizenship and strengthened through each generation’s commitment to freedom, justice and equality. 

On 16 June 1976, young people took to the streets to peacefully protest against the imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction. Despite the brute violence with which the apartheid security forces responded, the courage of the young people of 1976 awakened the conscience of the world and reinvigorated the struggle against apartheid. 

The sacrifices of the youth of 1976 contributed immensely to the broader movement for freedom, justice and equality. They demonstrated that young people are not merely beneficiaries of change but are often its most powerful drivers. This year marks the Golden Jubilee of that historic moment. 

Importantly, this commemoration is not only about remembering the past. It is about connecting the aspirations of 1976 to the realities of 2026. 

The youth of 1976 fought for equal access to education and human dignity. The challenge today is to ensure that young people have meaningful access to economic opportunities, quality education, skills development, entrepreneurship and participation in society. 

This year’s focus, “Mapping the Barriers: Auditing Access for Economic Inclusion”, calls on all sectors of society to identify and remove the obstacles that continue to prevent young people from realising their full potential. 

The greatest tribute we can pay to the class of 1976 is not simply to honour their memory. It is to ensure that today’s generation is empowered to lead, innovate and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

One of the most important discussions taking place globally today concerns the role of young people in peacebuilding, governance and diplomacy. The adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security was a watershed moment in international policy. 

It recognised that young people are not merely victims of conflict or passive observers of political processes. They are partners in peacebuilding, governance and sustainable development.

Africa is the youngest continent in the world. By 2050, nearly one in four people globally will be African. This demographic reality presents a tremendous opportunity. 

If properly empowered, Africa’s youth can drive economic growth, innovation, democratic participation and peacebuilding across the continent. If excluded, however, the consequences will be felt across every sector of society. 

South Africa has made important progress through the National Youth Policy and a range of youth development initiatives. However, there is growing recognition that we must continue strengthening the institutionalisation of youth participation across governance, peacebuilding and development processes. 

Just as South Africa has developed a National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, there are important lessons to be learned from countries such as Finland and several other states that have developed dedicated Youth, Peace and Security National Action Plans. Such initiatives help ensure that youth participation is not ad hoc, but systematic, meaningful and sustained. 

The 50th anniversary of 16 June 1976 coincides fittingly with the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution. Adopted on 10 December 1996, entering into force on 04 February 1997, the Constitution stands as the cornerstone of our democratic order. It is the product of decades of struggle against oppression and injustice. It reflects the aspirations of a people determined to build a society founded on human dignity, equality, freedom and the rule of law. 

For thirty years, the Constitution has guided South Africa’s democratic development. It has provided the framework for democratic governance, constitutional accountability, social transformation and the protection of human rights. 

Over the past three decades, South Africa has established robust democratic institutions, conducted free and fair elections, expanded access to education and healthcare, strengthened constitutional governance and advanced the rights of millions who were historically excluded. 

Yet, we must also acknowledge that the work of transformation remains unfinished. Persistent inequality, unemployment, poverty, corruption and social exclusion continue to challenge our democratic project.

 

We mark these two important anniversaries during a time when the world is experiencing increasing strategic competition, technological disruption, economic uncertainty and growing pressure on multilateral institutions. 

Competition over strategic resources, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, technological innovation and global supply chains is reshaping international relations. In this environment, diplomacy has become more important than ever 

As the previous Chair of the G20, South Africa consistently advocated for more representative, equitable and inclusive global governance institutions. 

The increasingly complex nature of international relations also requires broader societal participation in foreign policy discussions. It was precisely this recognition that informed the revival of the South African Council on International Relations (SACOIR). 

The revival of SACOIR reflects the understanding that diplomacy and foreign policy benefit from diverse perspectives and informed public engagement. SACOIR will provide a platform for dialogue and debate involving government, academia, business, civil society and foreign policy practitioners.

South Africa’s foreign policy continues to be guided by the pursuit of peace, development, multilateralism, solidarity and a rules-based international order. – SAnews.gov.za

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‘Today is about keeping South Africans safe’ – Justice Minister

Source: Government of South Africa

‘Today is about keeping South Africans safe’ – Justice Minister

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development and chair of the Inter-ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration, Mmamoloko Kubayi has reiterated that the South African state will ensure that law and order prevails as protestors take to the streets against irregular migration.

The Minister was speaking during an early morning media briefing at Mayfair in Johannesburg, Gauteng on Tuesday.
Strong police presence has been deployed in the province which was earmarked as a hotspot for anti-illegal migration marches.

“The state today is not going out to threaten its own citizens, but we have an obligation as government to ensure that there is law and order. We have an obligation as government to ensure that no one’s rights are infringed.

“That’s why we said today is a normal day. Anyone who makes a decision that they want to continue with [their daily lives], the environment must be conducive to do that,” she said.

The Minister noted that by around 8am, no major incidents had been reported in Gauteng.

“And it’s because there’s been preparedness from the state. I know people have asked why we are preparing but we have [learnt] that July 21st [2021] must never happen again in South Africa and we are ensuring that.

“We want to reiterate the right to protest, their right to express themselves where they are not happy with their own government. That cannot be taken away from them. But also, we are appealing to those who will be joining to do this in a peaceful manner and not cause harm.”

She assured South Africans that government continues its work to resolve challenges of irregular migration.

“We do not have a deadline of 30 June. As the IMC, our work continues. On the 2nd [of July] we are going to the border to visit the area. We will be looking at the border line and not just the entries. So, it’s continuous. Enforcement of migration laws continues, where we have been able to deport and deal with a lot of things.

On Monday, the IMC conducted a site inspection at the Beitbridge border post in Limpopo.

“The inspection forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen border management and enhance migration governance,” the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development said in a post on social media platform, X at the time.

READ | IMC visits Beitbridge border post

“Today, however is about keeping South Africans safe,” Kubayi said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Grey Names 2026 UpGreyed Her Winners, Marking $27,500 in Equity-Free Funding Across Three Editions

Source: APO – Report:

Grey (https://Grey.co/), the Y Combinator-backed global cross-border payment company, has announced the winners of the 2026 edition of UpGreyed Her, its platform for advancing women-led businesses.

The 2026 edition awarded $10,000 in equity-free growth capital to three founders building technology-led companies across manufacturing, food distribution, and nutrition-focused agriculture. Ghanaian entrepreneur Violet Awo Amaobeng, founder of Skin Gourmet Limited, received the $5,000 grand prize. Ozioma Onwordi, founder of Eden-Acres Integrated Organic Farm, received $3,000 as first runner-up, while Uchechukwu Okoli, founder of Lutam Farm Nigeria, received $2,000 as second runner-up.

UpGreyed Her has grown from a regional initiative into a global platform for women entrepreneurs building commercially viable businesses with measurable social and economic impact. Since its launch in 2024, Grey has deployed $27,500 in equity-free funding, supported 10 women founders, and expanded the programme’s reach across multiple regions and sectors, including artificial intelligence, IT, renewable and non-renewable energy.

The 2026 edition received applications from women entrepreneurs across 20 countries, including first-time applications from Chile, Uruguay, India, and Canada. This year’s geographic reach builds on the programme’s global expansion in 2025 and reflects the growing demand for capital, visibility, and ecosystem support among women founders building businesses that respond to real market needs.

Women-led businesses remain central to global economic development, yet many continue to face structural barriers to finance, market access, financial infrastructure, and growth networks. UpGreyed Her was created to help address this gap by backing women founders as business leaders, innovators, employers, and contributors to the global economy.

The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5: Gender Equality, by supporting women’s full participation in economic life; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by enabling entrepreneurship, job creation, and business expansion; and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, by supporting founders using technology to strengthen supply chains, distribution systems, and access to essential products and services. Through the work of its 2026 winners in AI-enabled manufacturing, agri-tech, and nutrition, the programme also contributes to broader goals around food security, health, and inclusive economic development.

“Each edition of UpGreyed Her has shown us that women entrepreneurs are not waiting for permission to build. They are already creating products, solving market problems, employing people, and expanding possibilities in their communities,” said Iheakachi Nwabueze, Vice President, Global Marketing and Growth at Grey. “Our role is to provide the kind of support that matches their ambition. Moving UpGreyed Her beyond a single moment on the calendar reflects our belief that women founders need consistent access to capital, visibility, and infrastructure, not just annual recognition.”

Iheakachi Nwabueze, VP of Global Marketing and Growth at Grey

The 2026 edition marks a new phase for UpGreyed Her. Unlike earlier editions that were connected to the International Women’s Day period, the programme is now evolving into a year-round platform designed to identify, fund, and amplify women founders across global markets. This shift reflects Grey’s broader commitment to financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, and economic mobility.

The 2026 winners represent this next chapter. Violet Awo Amaobeng, founder of Skin Gourmet Limited, is building a Ghanaian AI-enabled manufacturing company rooted in wildcrafted, edible skincare made from natural local ingredients. By combining local sourcing with an AI-powered supply chain, Skin Gourmet is strengthening traceability, improving production efficiency, and creating a scalable model for African beauty innovation in the global wellness market.

Ozioma Onwordi, founder of Eden-Acres Integrated Organic Farm, is building a tech-powered food distribution platform that connects smallholder farmers to urban consumers and hospitality businesses. The company addresses inefficiencies in food access and distribution by creating more reliable routes to market for farmers while improving access to fresh produce for households and businesses.

Uchechukwu Okoli, founder of Lutam Farm Nigeria, is leading an agri-tech social enterprise focused on combating malnutrition through affordable, nutrient-dense foods for low-income households. Lutam Farm operates at the intersection of agriculture, nutrition, and inclusive food access, with the potential to improve household wellbeing while strengthening local agricultural value chains.

The winners were selected following a rigorous evaluation process focused on business viability, innovation, impact, scalability, and founder readiness. The judging panel included Kanyinsola Onalaja, founder of contemporary womenswear brand Onalaja; Iheakachi Nwabueze, Vice President, Global Marketing and Growth at Grey; and Anshu Vajpeye, Anti-Money Laundering Analyst at Grey.

“Building a business from scratch teaches you to recognise conviction in others. This year’s applicants weren’t short on ideas, what they needed was capital to match their ambition, and that’s exactly what UpGreyedHer provides. What stood out to me, going through this year’s cohort, was how many founders had already proven their model works on a small scale and simply needed the resources to take it further. That’s a different kind of risk to back, and a far more exciting one. It tells you the work has already been done; what’s left is the opportunity to scale it.” said Kanyinsola Onalaja, Founder, Onalaja.

Kanyinsola Onalaja, Founder and Creative Director, Onalaja

For Grey, UpGreyed Her is closely connected to its wider mission of expanding access to the global economy. By supporting women-led businesses, Grey is investing in companies that can create jobs, improve access to goods and services, strengthen local and international value chains, and expand economic participation. UpGreyed Her reflects the company’s belief that financial inclusion is not only about access to accounts and payments, but also about enabling people to build, trade, scale, and compete globally.

As UpGreyed Her expands, Grey plans to continue building the programme as a global platform for capital access, visibility, and ecosystem support for women-led businesses.

– on behalf of Grey.

For media enquiries, reach out:
oyinda@grey.co

About Grey:
Grey is at the forefront of providing secure and convenient global banking solutions to meet the needs of customers and businesses. Grey holds a Money Service Business license from FINTRAC in Canada and FinCEN in the USA, and our primary focus is on emerging markets. Our range of services enables individuals and businesses to easily own and manage multi-currency accounts. This includes currency exchange, sending and receiving payments to and from over 170 countries, as well as access to virtual cards.

For more information about Grey’s services, visit https://Grey.co/

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Saldanha Bay reports no protest-related disruptions amid nationwide demonstrations

Source: Government of South Africa

Saldanha Bay reports no protest-related disruptions amid nationwide demonstrations

Saldanha Bay Municipality says roads, services and daily operations remain unaffected by protest action linked to illegal immigration, as planned demonstrations take place across the country on Tuesday.

In an update, the municipality said the situation remains calm and is being monitored closely.

“Traffic is flowing normally across the municipality, and all municipal services and daily operations are continuing as usual. Residents are encouraged to continue with their normal activities,” the Municipality said.

The Municipality’s Public Safety Services team, together with relevant stakeholders, remains on high alert and continues to monitor developments closely.

“Should any confirmed incidents occur that may impact public safety or traffic flow, the public will be informed through the Municipality’s official communication channels.

“The Municipality encourages members of the public to rely only on verified information and to refrain from sharing unconfirmed reports or rumours that may cause unnecessary concern.”

Saldanha Bay Municipality thanked stakeholders and community members for their cooperation, saying it remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. –SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President Mashatile to deliver a keynote address at the Chery International Factory Acquisition Celebration in Tshwane

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Friday,  03 July 2026, deliver a keynote address at the Chery International Factory Acquisition Celebration in Tshwane, Gauteng Province.

The acquisition by Chery International represents a significant transition in ownership and a new chapter in the facility’s operational future. It also  supports economic growth, job creation, and localisation. 

The automotive sector remains one of the critical pillars of South Africa’s industrialisation programme. This investment in particular aligns with Government’s commitment to attract investment that supports inclusive economic growth. It reinforces South Africa’s position as the automotive gateway to the African continent.  

Details of the event are as follows:
Date: Friday, 03 July 2026
Time: 14:00 (Media to arrive at 13h00)
Venue: Rosslyn Production Facility, Tshwane Municipality, Gauteng Province.

For more information and accreditation, please contact, Mr Sthembiso Sithole (Presidency) on 078 356 4355 or Ms Verene Peterson (Chery International) on 083 226 3344.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Presidency
 

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Zimbabwe and the Global Critical Minerals Reset: Can Africa Move Beyond Extraction?

Source: APO

Africa’s role in the global critical minerals market is drawing renewed attention as competition for strategic resources intensifies and global supply chains continue to shift.

Join VUKA Group’s Zimbabwe Mining Week, in partnership with Mining Review Africa, for a provocative webinar that will unpack Zimbabwe’s place in the evolving critical minerals landscape and what it means for Africa’s long-term industrial ambitions.

The demand for lithium, platinum group metals, chrome and other key minerals is rising greatly and underpinned by the growth of electric vehicles, battery storage systems and wider energy transition policies.

Against this backdrop, Zimbabwe has solidified its standing as one of the continent’s most active mining jurisdictions, drawing fresh investment while advancing policies aimed at beneficiation, value addition and industrial development.

The broader question is whether this momentum can translate into a deeper structural shift, one that allows African producers to move beyond exporting raw materials and capture a greater share of value through processing, refining and participation in downstream industries.

This webinar will examine Zimbabwe’s place in the global critical minerals reset, including its competitiveness relative to regional peers and the practical realities of building local beneficiation capacity.

It will also look closely at the constraints that continue to shape the sector, from infrastructure and energy supply to access to finance.

In addition, the discussion will unpack how global supply chains are being reconfigured, where control over downstream value sits, and what African producers will need to do to strengthen their position in fast-evolving markets.

Bringing together industry leaders, investors, analysts and policymakers, the session is expected to provide grounded insight into the choices that will shape the next phase of critical minerals development in Zimbabwe and across Africa.

Register now (https://streamyard.com/watch/VFnsTEUThc6d)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Media Contact:
Gerard Peter
Editor-in-Chief
Mining Review Africa
VUKA Group
Email: gerard.peter@wearevuka.com
Phone: +27 (0) 81 813 7580

About Vuka Group:
VUKA Group is a leading platform for convening Africa’s green economy, investment, and climate transition communities through high-level summits, industry forums, and strategic convenings, including the Carbon Markets Africa Summit.

About Zimbabwe Mining Week:
Zimbabwe Mining Week is an annual conference and exhibition held at the Rainbow Towers Hotel & Conference Venue in Harare. The premier event connects the Ministry of Mines, mining operators, and global investors to shape the future of Zimbabwe’s mining economy.

About Mining Review Africa:
Mining Review Africa is the leading bi-monthly magazine and digital platform in the African mining industry. Every month, MRA reaches an audience of over 50 000 influential mining authorities and key decision makers through a variety of channels, including an interactive website, videos and print distribution at all major mining conferences in Africa and across the globe.

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Opening remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Extraordinary SADC Summit

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe and Outgoing Chairperson of SADC,
Your Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia and Interim Incoming Chairperson of SADC,
Your Excellency President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, President of the Republic of Malawi and the Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation,
Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,
Honourable Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and Chairperson of the Council of Ministers,
Honourable Ministers, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good afternoon
 
Allow me to welcome you all to this important Virtual Extraordinary Summit of the SADC Heads of State and Government. Thank you for availing yourselves at short notice.
 
We meet at a decisive moment for our region and, most urgently, for the Republic of Madagascar. 
 
We recall the Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of SADC, held virtually on 17 December 2025. 
 
Upon receiving a comprehensive report from the Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, following the Technical Fact-Finding Mission to Madagascar undertaken in October 2025, that Summit took far-reaching decisions. 
 
Today’s session will assess the extent to which those decisions have been implemented.
 
Having carefully considered the political and security developments that culminated in a change of government in Madagascar in 2025, the Summit in December last year noted the restoration of relative calm and the launch of national consultations by the Transitional Authorities. 
 
We reaffirmed a clear and collective position: SADC will remain actively engaged in Madagascar until our sister country restores constitutional order. 
 
We further committed that the reform process must be inclusive, time-bound and nationally owned. The reform process must create space for all stakeholders, including political exiles, to participate meaningfully in shaping Madagascar’s future.
 
Importantly, the Summit had urged Madagascar to submit a dialogue readiness report and a draft National Roadmap by 28 February 2026, with regular updates thereafter. 
 
These are not procedural formalities – they are essential benchmarks for accountability, transparency and trust in a process that must lead to credible elections within an agreed framework. 
 
We further approved the deployment of the SADC Panel of Elders, led by former President Dr Joyce Banda, supported by the Mediation Reference Group and the Secretariat, to accompany Madagascar’s reform process. 
 
We also directed the Secretariat to work closely with the African Union and international partners to mobilise financial, technical and logistical support in a coordinated manner, ensuring coherence and avoiding fragmentation of efforts. 
 
The message from the Summit was unequivocal: regional and international support must reinforce Malagasy-led solutions, not replace them.
 
The report of the Mission before us today will indicate whether Madagascar has seized the window of opportunity afforded by our regional organisation. 
 
It will indicate if calm continues to prevail, if the nation is fully engaged in inclusive national consultations, if institutions are becoming more representative, and if reforms are taking firm root. 
 
Ultimately, it is the responsibility of all actors – government, opposition, civil society, youth, women and traditional leaders – to act in good faith and place national interest above partisan considerations. 
 
In this journey, SADC must remain engaged, vigilant and principled.
 
We are looking forward to the report of the Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit held on the 22nd of June 2026 on the political and security situation in the Republic of Madagascar.
 
I thank you.
 

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The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Convenes High-Level HerAfCFTA Regional Conference to Advance Women’s Economic Leadership under African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

Source: APO

The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (https://FMITI.gov.ng/) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (www.UNDP.org) convenes the HerAfCFTA Regional Conference on Monday, 29 June 2026, alongside the 2026 African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) (https://au-AfCFTA.org/) Council of Ministers Meeting, bringing together African leaders, Ministers of Trade, policymakers, women entrepreneurs, private sector leaders, financial institutions, development partners, and regional organizations to advance women’s economic leadership and unlock the full potential of Africa’s single market.

Held as Africa marks five years since the launch of AfCFTA, the Conference comes at a critical moment in the continent’s economic integration journey. With a market of more than 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP exceeding US$3 trillion, AfCFTA presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deepen intra-African trade, strengthen regional value chains, accelerate industrialization, and drive inclusive economic growth.

The next phase of implementation requires moving beyond policy commitments towards practical solutions that strengthen productive capacity, expand market access, mobilize investment, and enable African enterprises—particularly women-led businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—to compete and grow across regional markets.

Hosted by the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General, UNDP Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, together with the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and in collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat, the Conference will serve as a high-level platform to strengthen partnerships, showcase practical solutions, and identify actions that accelerate women’s participation in intra-African trade and regional value chains.

Nigeria’s leadership in this conversation is particularly significant. As Africa’s largest economy and one of the continent’s leading centres for entrepreneurship, innovation, and enterprise, Nigeria is well positioned to demonstrate how trade, investment, and innovation can work together to drive industrialization, create jobs, and advance sustainable development across the continent.

The Conference will feature Ministers of Trade from Ghana, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, alongside senior government officials, women entrepreneurs, development finance institutions, private sector leaders, investors, and regional organizations.

Senior Nigerian government representatives expected to participate include:

  • Honourable Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Federal Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development;
  • Honourable Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs; and
  • Honourable Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Federal Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy.

Discussions will focus on strengthening women’s participation in regional value chains, expanding access to finance and markets, enhancing export competitiveness, and fostering strategic partnerships that enable women-owned enterprises to scale across Africa.

The Conference builds on HerAfCFTA, UNDP’s flagship continental initiative launched in 2023 to advance women’s economic empowerment through trade, investment, and enterprise development. In Nigeria, the initiative supports women-led businesses by strengthening export readiness, facilitating market access, connecting entrepreneurs to finance and investment opportunities, and creating an enabling ecosystem for inclusive trade.

The HerAfCFTA Regional Conference reflects UNDP’s broader commitment to connecting markets, innovation, investment, and partnerships to accelerate Africa’s economic transformation. By bringing together governments, businesses, investors, and development partners, the Conference seeks to ensure that the opportunities created by AfCFTA translate into tangible outcomes—stronger enterprises, quality jobs, resilient value chains, and inclusive prosperity for women and communities across the continent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

For media inquiries, please contact:
Ugochukwu Kingsley Ahuchaogu
Regional Communications and External Engagement Specialist
UNDP Africa
Email: Ugochukwu.kingsley@undp.org

Christabel Chanda-Ginsberg
Public Engagement, Outreach and Partnerships Unit
UNDP Nigeria
Email: christabel.chanda-ginsberg@undp.org  

About UNDP AFRICA:
UNDP Africa supports 46 countries in accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, expediting structural economic transformation for sustainable development, building resilience to shocks and promoting sound governance, peace, and security throughout the continent. Guided by the principle that Africa is not homogeneous, UNDP’s Renewed Strategic Offer in Africa is a premier ENABLER and INTEGRATOR for the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda (https://apo-opa.co/4weqVdM) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 (https://apo-opa.co/4g9fqjj). For more information, visit:  https://www.UNDP.org/africa

In Nigeria, UNDP has been supporting the Government and people of Nigeria in addressing development challenges through strengthening and building institutions that promote inclusive, sustainable development and democratic governance. UNDP collaborates with multisectoral stakeholders to support Nigeria in meeting its Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) promise. For more information, visit: https://apo-opa.co/44GnmBm

About HerAfCFTA:
HerAfCFTA is an initiative stemming from UNDP’s renewed strategic focus on Africa, leveraging inter-African trade as a key mechanism for poverty reduction, job creation, and increasing foreign exchange. Launched by the UNDP Regional Director for Africa at the inaugural AfCFTA Business Forum in 2023, HerAfCFTA underscores the importance of collective effort and calls on all development actors to invest consistently, in supercharging export readiness. For women entrepreneurs in Nigeria, this framework presents several opportunities that could potentially transform their business prospects.

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Decisive action will be taken against lawlessness, warns Natjoints

Source: Government of South Africa

Decisive action will be taken against lawlessness, warns Natjoints

Chairperson of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures (Natjoints), Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, says law enforcement agencies will respond to criminality swiftly, proportionately and decisively within the confines of the law.

“To those who intend to break the law tomorrow, our message is simple: do not test the resolve of the State. To those who intend to demonstrate peacefully, we assure you that your constitutional rights will be protected,” Mosikili said.

This comes as several groupings will be protesting undocumented immigration on 30 June.

Addressing the media on Monday night, Mosikili said the Natjoints, Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures, and all operational command centres were functioning on a 24-hour basis.

“Our operators are on the ground across all nine provinces. The first responders tasked with responding to public gatherings and any emerging incidents are fully deployed and on high alert. Public Order Policing units are in position,” Mosikili said.

She said specialised operational units were ready to respond at a moment’s notice.

“Our intelligence structures continue to monitor developments in real time, and operational commanders are receiving continuous updates to ensure swift and decisive decision-making.

“Every law enforcement officer understands their mandate. Every commander understands their responsibility. Every operational plan is in motion.  

“Let there be no doubt. Government is ready. We will secure every lawful and peaceful demonstration. We will protect every community. We will safeguard critical infrastructure. We will maintain public order,” she said.

Mosikili warned those who intend to break the law that “they should not test the resolve of the State”.

“To those who intend to demonstrate peacefully, we assure you that your constitutional rights will be protected. To every South African, be confident that your safety remains our highest priority,” Mosikili said.

She said contingency plans had been tested and law enforcement was ready, adding that the Air Wing would provide aerial surveillance and operational support wherever required.

“There is a clear distinction between exercising democratic rights and committing criminal offences. Anyone who crosses that line must expect the full and immediate consequences of the law,” she said.

She warned that no individual or group will be allowed to undermine the authority of the State.

“No one will be allowed to intimidate communities. No one will be allowed to shut down the economy. No one will be allowed to prevent law-abiding citizens from going to work, attending school, accessing healthcare facilities or conducting business. No one will be permitted to damage public infrastructure, loot businesses, attack law enforcement officers or incite violence.

“No dangerous weapons including firearms, knives and traditional weapons will be allowed, in terms of Section 17 of the Constitution. The State will act decisively against any person who seeks to exploit tomorrow’s demonstrations to commit acts of lawlessness,” she said.

With regard to arrests, Mosikili said from 1 March to date, the police have registered 103 cases with 195 suspects arrested.

A breakdown of cases per province:

• In KwaZulu Natal, 39 cases have been reported with 11 arrests. 
• In the Eastern Cape 12 cases were reported with 9 suspects arrested. 
• In the Free State, 29 cases were reported with 153 arrests. 
• In the Western Cape, 15 cases were reported and 14 arrests were affected. 
• In Gauteng, 4 cases were registered with 5 suspects arrested.   
• In Mpumalanga, 3 cases were registered with 3 arrests.

Mosikili said the leader of the march linked to the Abahambe protests, Simphiwe James Bonile, remains in custody following his arrest in May in the Western Cape.

More than 25 000 foreign nationals have been repatriated.

“This is an ongoing process. All buses transporting repatriated foreign nationals are travelling under strict law enforcement escort from departure to the designated ports of entry.

“Along the routes, a number of verification checkpoints have been established where law enforcement officials confirm passenger numbers, verify identities and nationalities, and ensure that all processes comply with the law,” she said.

In his weekly newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the right to protest is enshrined in the Constitution, but that does not allow people to threaten or intimidate others, or to engage in acts of vandalism or violence. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Closing remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Extraordinary SADC Summit

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,
Honourable Ministers, 
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
We have reached the conclusion of an important session of our organisation. 
 
The decisions we have taken today on the political and security situation in the Republic of Madagascar reflect both the gravity of the challenges before us and the clarity of our collective commitment to peace, constitutional order and democratic governance.
 
Let me express our appreciation for the comprehensive work undertaken by the Panel of Elders, led by Her Excellency Dr Joyce Banda, supported by the Mediation Reference Group and the SADC Secretariat. 
 
We approved the Reports of the three Shuttle Diplomacy Missions as submitted to the Extraordinary Troika Summit of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation. 
 
We commend the Organ Troika for providing the necessary support and guidance to the work of the Shuttle Diplomacy Mission.
 
We urge the Organ Troika to convene at shorter intervals to assess the work of the Shuttle Diplomacy Mission and deploy the necessary interventions as the reform process progresses in our sister country, Madagascar. 
 
We commended the Panel and all those involved for executing the mandate of this Summit with diligence, impartiality and dedication under complex circumstances. 
 
Their work has provided us with a clear, evidence-based understanding of developments on the ground and the state of the reform process.
 
As we have reaffirmed today, any reform or refoundation process must be understood as a transitional pathway, not an open-ended arrangement. 
 
It must lead, within a defined and reasonable timeframe, to the restoration of full constitutional order and the holding of democratic elections that reflect the sovereign will of the Malagasy people. 
 
Our region cannot afford cycles of transition without resolution. Stability is not sustained by indefinite processes, but by credible institutions and legitimate, elected governance.
 
We have agreed that SADC shall remain seized with the situation in Madagascar and will continue to accompany the Malagasy people on this journey. 
 
In doing so, we reaffirm our unwavering support for a process that is inclusive, transparent, and nationally owned.
 
We reaffirm our support for a process that addresses the political, security, economic and institutional causes of instability.
 
Today’s decisions send a clear message to all stakeholders in Madagascar. 
 
First, that the success of the national consultation and reform process depends on the participation and good faith of all actors. We therefore urge all parties – government, political actors, civil society, youth, women, traditional leaders and all sectors of society – to engage constructively, exercise restraint and place national interests above narrow considerations.
 
Second, we emphasise that inclusivity and transparency are essential conditions for legitimacy. We call on the Government of Madagascar to ensure that consultations are genuinely representative and that implementation is guided by impartiality and neutrality. 
 
Third, we have strengthened the SADC engagement architecture. The expanded mandate of the Panel of Elders, under Her Excellency Dr Joyce Banda, including facilitation and reconciliation functions, will ensure sustained political accompaniment. 
 
The approval of a SADC Liaison Office in Antananarivo will further enhance our capacity to support coordination on the ground, in close collaboration with national authorities and partners. 
 
These mechanisms are designed to ensure that SADC remains present, responsive and effective.
 
Finally, we have reinforced accountability. 
 
Regular reporting through the Secretariat, including quarterly updates and immediate escalation of any deterioration or deviation from agreed milestones to the Organ Troika, will ensure that we remain fully informed and able to respond decisively where necessary. 
 
This is essential for maintaining confidence in the process and credibility in our collective decisions.
 
We reiterate our call for the release of political prisoners, an end to arbitrary arrests and the facilitation of the return of political exiles. 
 
These measures are not only humanitarian in nature; they are fundamental to building trust and creating an environment conducive to genuine national dialogue and reconciliation.
 
What we have decided today is a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility to defend constitutional governance, to prevent the recurrence of instability and to stand in solidarity with the people of Madagascar as they seek a more stable and democratic future.
 
Let us therefore remain guided by unity of purpose that underpins the existence of our organisation, consistency in principle and values upon which SADC was founded, and firmness in implementation of our decisions. 
 
The credibility of SADC depends on our ability to ensure that we all respect the decisions that we collectively take.
 
I thank you once again for your participation and attention to this critical matter. 
 
I thank you.