Category: MIL-OSI

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Mashatile wraps up working visit to China

Source: Government of South Africa

Mashatile wraps up working visit to China

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has successfully concluded his working visit to China, undertaken at the invitation of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) chairperson, Ren Hongbin.

The visit focused on strengthening trade, investment and industrial cooperation between South Africa and China, further reinforcing the strong strategic partnership between the two nations.

Ren welcomed the Deputy President and the South African delegation, underscoring the significance of South Africa’s participation in the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE).

Mashatile expressed appreciation to the CCPIT for the invitation and for hosting the expo, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to deepening trade and investment ties with China.

Discussions between the two sides explored opportunities to improve market access, expand business participation and unlock greater cooperation across trade and investment platforms.

In a sign of growing bilateral engagement, Mashatile participated in CISCE for the second time, highlighting South Africa’s continued commitment to this influential global platform.

Addressing the expo, the Deputy President emphasised the importance of building resilient, diversified and sustainable global supply chains amid shifting economic realities, while reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with China.

“South Africa is an attractive investment destination, supported by sophisticated industrial capabilities, a world-class financial sector and well-established logistics infrastructure. We remain committed to reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, accelerating infrastructure development and strengthening industrial competitiveness,” he said.

During the expo, the Deputy President toured the exhibition floor, engaging with exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge developments in digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, green energy, agriculture, smart mobility and supply chain services.

As part of the visit, Mashatile also held a bilateral meeting with Han Zheng. The two leaders reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between South Africa and China and discussed closer cooperation in trade, investment, industrial development and multilateral engagement.

In efforts to attract greater investment into South Africa, the Deputy President met with several leading Chinese companies, including China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), Geely Automobile, Chery Automobile, Green Minerals and Metals, Beijing GeoEnviron Engineering & Technology and SANY Group.

The engagements focused on key sectors including infrastructure development, automotive manufacturing, mineral beneficiation, environmental management, healthcare, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, skills development and localisation.

Mashatile encouraged the companies to invest in South Africa and invited them to participate in the next South Africa Investment Conference.

The Deputy President also participated in a South Africa Networking Session hosted at the South African Embassy in Beijing, bringing together government, business and investment stakeholders to deepen economic cooperation and promote South Africa as a preferred investment destination.

During the second leg of the working visit, Mashatile travelled to Shenzhen, specifically the Nanshan District, where he participated in the China (Shenzhen Nanshan)-South Africa Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange at the Go Global Center.

The programme included guided tours and high-level engagements with representatives from government, business and the Communist Party of China.

Key engagements included bilateral meetings with Huang Xiangyue and his delegation; China Everbright Environment led by Chairman Wang Silian; Shenzhen Yujiaocheng Technology (YJC Group); Jiangsu Joylong Automobile, and the South Africa-China Shenzhen Chamber of Commerce, led by Deputy Secretary General Shirley Chan.

Mashatile also toured and engaged with senior leadership of Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics.

On the final day of the visit, the Deputy President held a bilateral meeting with Jin Lei, the China Communist Party Secretary of Shenzhen, and his delegation. He also travelled to Dongguan for a guided tour of the South Africa Commodity China Exhibition and Trade Centre, a platform aimed at strengthening commercial and economic relations between South Africa and China through imports and exports.

“South Africa values institutions that create practical mechanisms for expanding trade, attracting investment and facilitating business partnerships between our two republics,” said the Deputy President as he concluded the visit.

Mashatile was accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, and senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa to co-chair UNESCO education meeting in Paris

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa to co-chair UNESCO education meeting in Paris

President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a Working Visit to France from 10 to 12 July 2026, where he is expected to participate in key engagements focused on education and remembrance.

The visit follows an invitation from UNESCO [United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation] Director-General, Khaled El-Enany, to co-chair the UNESCO High-Level Steering Committee on Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) on education, scheduled to take place at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on 10 July 2026.

The high-level engagement will be followed by the Transforming Education Summit (TES) Stocktake, which will assess global progress in advancing inclusive and equitable quality education.

On 12 July, President Ramaphosa is expected to attend the 110th commemoration of the Battle of Delville Wood at the South African Memorial in Longueval, located approximately two hours from Paris.

The solemn commemoration will honour the bravery and sacrifice of South African soldiers who lost their lives during World War I.

Proceedings will include a wreath-laying ceremony and the unveiling of a UNESCO plaque, marking the significance of the memorial and its enduring historical legacy.

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by several Ministers and senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) Concludes Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Annual Meetings 2026 in Baku with Seven Agreements Exceeding USD 1 Billion

Source: APO


.

The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org), a Shariah-based multilateral credit and political risk insurer and member of the Islamic Development Bank Group, concluded its participation in the IsDB Group Annual Meetings 2026 in Baku with the signing of seven agreements, Memoranda of Understanding, and insurance policies valued at more than USD 1 billion.

Held from 16 to 19 June under the theme “Regional Integration for Sustainable Prosperity,” the Annual Meetings provided a strategic platform for ICIEC to advance partnerships, support bankable projects, and reinforce its role in enabling trade and investment across its 51 Member States.

During the 14th IsDB Group Private Sector Forum (PSF), Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Chief Executive Officer of ICIEC, participated as a speaker in the CEOs Session titled “Making Regional Integration Investable.” The session focused on how the IsDB Group can deliver integrated solutions by combining trade facilitation, investment structuring, and de-risking instruments to transform regional integration ambitions into scalable and bankable opportunities.

Following the CEOs Session, ICIEC hosted its High-Level Panel Discussion titled “De-Risking Trade & Investment for Regional Prosperity.” The session brought together around 300 participants, including senior Azerbaijani officials, business leaders, investors, development finance institutions, export credit agencies, insurers, and trade promotion organisations. The discussion highlighted Azerbaijan’s role as a strategic regional hub connecting Central Asia, the South Caucasus, Türkiye, Europe, and the wider OIC region. It also examined how Shariah-compliant risk management instruments can unlock cross-border capital, strengthen investor confidence, and support sustainable development across Member Countries.

The agreements signed during the PSF covered key areas including infrastructure, trade finance, export development, banking cooperation, and investment facilitation. They included support for strategic transactions in Nigeria, Türkiye, Uganda, and other Member Countries, alongside partnerships with financial institutions aimed at expanding access to Shariah-compliant risk mitigation and trade finance solutions.

Commenting on ICIEC’s participation, Dr. Khalid Khalafalla said: “ICIEC’s achievements in Baku demonstrate the vital role of risk mitigation in turning regional integration ambitions into bankable opportunities. The agreements concluded during the Annual Meetings will support infrastructure delivery, trade flows, investment mobilisation, and private sector growth across our Member States. ICIEC remains committed to providing the confidence and protection needed to move strategic projects from concept to implementation.”

Throughout the Annual Meetings, ICIEC held more than 80 B2B and B2G meetings with stakeholders from over 60 countries, strengthening engagement with governments, financial institutions, investors, exporters, and private sector leaders.

The ICIEC Awards recognised outstanding institutions and initiatives for their contributions to trade, investment, and sustainable development. This year, ICIEC honoured First Abu Dhabi Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, and Agrobank for landmark infrastructure and trade finance transactions that reflect the impact of effective partnerships and risk mitigation.

On the occasion of the Annual Meetings, ICIEC also issued a Special Issue themed “Corridors of Opportunities: From Azerbaijan to Central Asia, Enabling Bankable Delivery Through Risk Mitigation.” The publication highlighted Azerbaijan’s growing role as a gateway linking Central Asia, the South Caucasus, Türkiye, Europe, and the wider Islamic world. It featured perspectives on trade corridors, Islamic finance, export credit insurance, investment protection, and the role of risk mitigation in advancing sustainable growth.

ICIEC’s outcomes in Baku reaffirm its commitment to working with Member States, financial institutions, investors, and development partners to de-risk strategic projects, expand cross-border trade, and promote sustainable prosperity across the OIC region and beyond.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

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Email: ICIEC-Communication@isdb.org

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About ICIEC:
As a member of the rated Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, ICIEC commenced operations in 1994 to strengthen economic relations between OIC Member States and promote intra-OIC trade and investments by providing risk mitigation tools and Shariah-compliant financial solutions. The Corporation is the only Islamic multilateral insurer in the world. ICIEC has led to delivering a comprehensive suite of solutions to companies and stakeholders across its 51 Member States. For the 18th consecutive year, ICIEC maintained an “Aa3” insurance financial strength credit rating from Moody’s, ranking the Corporation among the top tier of the Credit and Political Risk Insurance (CPRI) industry. Additionally, S&P has reaffirmed ICIEC’s “AA-” long-term Issuer Credit and Financial Strength Rating for the third consecutive year, with a Stable Outlook. ICIEC’s resilience is underpinned by its sound underwriting practices, a robust global reinsurance network, and strong risk management policies. Cumulatively, ICIEC has insured more than USD 138 billion in trade and investment. ICIEC’s activities span several key sectors, including energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture.

For more information, Visit: https://ICIEC.IsDB.org

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Blaming migrants ignores the real causes of South Africa’s economic crisis

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Justin Visagie, Associate Professor at the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies, University of the Witwatersrand

South Africa is in the midst of its most significant anti-immigrant mobilisation in years.

The emergence of the March and March movement, calls for the mass deportation of undocumented migrants by 30 June 2026, growing anti-immigrant violence, and the repatriation of foreign nationals by several African governments have pushed immigration to the centre of national debate.

The anti-immigrant protest movement argues that it is responding to rising unemployment, deteriorating public services and growing insecurity.

The question is not whether these grievances have merit. They do. It’s whether immigrants are, in fact, responsible for them.

This article draws from research by the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand. It examines the drivers and consequences of inequality. It focuses on the world of work, public spending, production and ownership, technological change and innovation, and the effects of climate change.

Our research provides important context for understanding the economic and social conditions in which anti-migrant sentiment has exploded – and its underlying causes. Immigration is not irrelevant to the multiple and overlapping crises facing South Africans. But it’s not their primary cause.

Joblessness and informality

Few issues illustrate this more clearly than employment.

South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world. More than four in every ten working-age adults who want work are unable to find it (this includes discouraged work seekers). The scale of this crisis understandably creates pressure to identify a cause and demand action.

Many South Africans have concluded that immigrants are taking jobs away from local workers. Our analysis of public opinion data shows that as many as 70% of South Africans believe that immigrants take jobs from people born in the country.

These views help explain the growing support for anti-immigrant mobilisation. But public perceptions do not always align with reality.

Administrative tax data suggests that foreign nationals occupy a very small share of formal employment in South Africa. Our researchers have found that less than 4% of formal jobs are held by foreigners. This share has remained largely unchanged for more than a decade.

The picture is somewhat different in the informal economy, where foreign-born workers represent a limited but larger 20% share of participants.

Related research by Southern Centre for Inequality Studies scholars together with the international informal workers’ organisation StreetNet and Women in Informal Employment: Globalizing and Organizing (WIEGO) in South Africa found that as the informal sector expands amid rising unemployment, competition has increased. This has made livelihoods more precarious and earnings more difficult to sustain.

Competition is particularly rife among spaza shop owners (informal neighbourhood grocery stores) and street traders, who purchase goods in the formal sector and resell them at a small profit margin. Foreign-owned spaza stores tend to run larger and collective operations – a similar role to wholesalers. This enables them to offer a wider range of products for lower prices.

Creating a supportive environment for informal operators would require policy shifts. They could include: access to start-up capital, wholesale sourcing of goods, secure access to public space, investment in affordable public infrastructure and services, and reduced harassment by municipal authorities.

Despite recent government plans to revitalise the township (historically segregated poor neighbourhoods) and rural economies, South Africa’s economic policy remains focused on the formal sector.

The frustrations experienced by South Africans are therefore understandable. But South Africa’s unemployment crisis is simply too large to be explained by immigration alone.

For example, our research suggests that the unemployment rate would fall by only six percentage points – from 43.6% to 37.6% – if all foreigners’ jobs were somehow handed to unemployed South Africans.

This is a relatively modest reduction given the scale of South Africa’s unemployment crisis. It highlights that foreigners do not dominate the labour market overall, even if some sectors and locations have higher concentrations of immigrant workers.

Yet, not only is it unrealistic to expect that jobs could be swapped one-to-one between immigrants and South Africans. It could even result in net overall job losses for South Africans because of the reduction in entrepreneurship, investment and skills which foreigners bring.

This was the conclusion of a World Bank report which found that one immigrant worker actually generates approximately two jobs for locals.

The economic contribution of migrants may also help explain why attitudes towards immigration vary across South Africa. A Southern Centre for Inequality Studies scholar found that residents of more deprived municipalities were sometimes more supportive of cross-border movement than those living in better-resourced areas. One possible explanation is that direct contact with migrants helped challenge stereotypes and helped make their economic contributions more visible.

If immigration is not the primary cause of joblessness, why does the perception resonate so strongly?

Part of the answer lies in the economic pressures experienced by ordinary households.

Economic pressures facing households

Households face rising costs associated with food, transport, electricity and other essentials. These pressures come on top of the deterioration of public services. Power outages, unreliable public transport, overcrowded schools, and long waits at public clinics have become part of everyday life for many South Africans. This has reinforced a sense that living standards are steadily declining.

Our research confirms that the reduction in government borrowing, mainly through reduced budgets and the collection of more revenue, has been squeezing out public services for a decade. This has contributed to worsening teacher-learner ratios, longer waiting periods at public health facilities, and increasing backlogs at courts.

These pressures are likely to intensify in the years ahead for a number of reasons.

First, climate change places disproportionate burdens on vulnerable groups, such as women, particularly through its effects on care work, livelihoods and access to essential resources.

Our recent research also suggests that the green transition will create highly uneven labour market impacts across South Africa. Some communities will bear significant job losses and economic disruption that could intensify social and political tensions.

Second, the limits of South Africa’s social protection are becoming more apparent. Social grants have become a lifeline for millions of households and play a vital role in preventing destitution. But they cannot substitute for decent work and economic opportunity. Our research on social protection shows people want something more than survival. They want meaningful work, dignity, independence and opportunities to build better lives.

The challenge facing South Africa is not simply to reduce poverty, but to expand opportunity. South Africa’s economic prosperity is actually tied to trade and investment with the rest of Africa. Anti-immigrant politics may deliver short-term political gains. But they risk damaging the relationships and openness on which South Africa’s long-term growth depends.

A warning signal

The rise of anti-immigrant sentiment is a warning signal. It reflects genuine frustration with economic conditions and declining opportunities faced by the average South African. Ignoring those frustrations would be a mistake.

But so too would be blaming migrants for a crisis they did not create. Economic hardship may help explain anti-immigrant sentiment, but it cannot justify directing hostility or violence towards people whose rights and dignity deserve equal protection.

South Africa’s challenges demand better policy, not scapegoating, prejudice or violence against migrants.

The statement on which this article is based was signed by the following Southern Centre for Inequality Studies research staff: Comfort Molefinyana, David Francis, Geci Karuri-Sebina, Glen Robbins, Gontse Mabaso, Imraan Valodia, Julia Taylor, Khanimamba Masuluke, Khumisho Moguerane, Niall Reddy, Nirvana Pillay, Nishal Robb, Rahul Gandhi, Rashaad Mohamed Amra, Rheyna Pattni, Rozeena Das, Ujithra Ponniah.

– Blaming migrants ignores the real causes of South Africa’s economic crisis
– https://theconversation.com/blaming-migrants-ignores-the-real-causes-of-south-africas-economic-crisis-286157

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Deputy President Mashatile concludes Working Visit to the People’s Republic of China

Source: President of South Africa –

His Excellency, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Paul Mashatile, has today, Saturday 27 June 2026, successfully concluded his Working Visit to the People’s Republic of China, undertaken at the invitation of the Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Mr Ren Hongbin.

The Working Visit was aimed at strengthening trade, investment and industrial cooperation between South Africa and China.

Chairman Ren Hongbin welcomed the Deputy President and the South African delegation and highlighted the importance of South Africa’s participation at CISCE.
The Deputy President thanked CCPIT for the invitation and for hosting the Expo, and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening trade and investment cooperation with China.

Both sides discussed opportunities to improve market access, expand business participation, and deepen cooperation on trade and investment platforms.

The Deputy President participated in the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) for the second time, reflecting the strengthening and continuity of South Africa’s engagement with this important global platform. 

The Deputy President’s address at the Expo highlighted the importance of resilient, diversified and sustainable global supply chains in a changing global economy, and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to deepening its comprehensive strategic partnership with China.

” South Africa is an attractive investment destination, supported by sophisticated industrial capabilities, a world-class financial sector, and well-established logistics infrastructure. We remain committed to reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, accelerating infrastructure development, and strengthening industrial competitiveness” said the Deputy President.

During the Expo, the Deputy President conducted a walkabout of the exhibition, where he engaged exhibitors showcasing developments in digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, green energy, agriculture, smart mobility and supply chain services.

As part of the Working Visit, the Deputy President also held a bilateral meeting with Vice President Han Zheng of the People’s Republic of China. The two leaders reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between South Africa and China and discussed cooperation in trade, investment, industrial development and multilateral engagement.

In an effort to strengthen economic cooperation and attract investment, the Deputy President engaged with a number of leading Chinese companies, including China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), Geely Automobile, Chery Automobile, Green Minerals and Metals (GMM Holding), Beijing GeoEnviron Engineering & Technology and SANY Group.

The engagements focused on infrastructure development, automotive manufacturing, mineral beneficiation, environmental management, healthcare, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, skills development and localisation. 

The Deputy President encouraged the companies to invest in South Africa and invited them to participate in the next South Africa Investment Conference.

In addition, the Deputy President participated in a South Africa Networking Session hosted at the South African Embassy in Beijing, which brought together government, business and investment stakeholders to strengthen economic cooperation and promote South Africa as an investment destination.

On the second leg of the Working Visit, Deputy President Mashatile traveled to Shenzhen, in the Nanshan District of Guangdong Province where he further engaged in the China (Shenzhen Nanshan)- South Africa Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange at the Go Global Center, a guided tour of the facilities and a number of high-level engagements with Representatives from Government, Business and China Communist Party, the governing party of the People’s Republic of China.

The engagements included  a bilateral meeting with Mr Huang Xiangyue, Secretary of CPC Nanshan District Committee Shenzhen and his delegation; a bilateral meeting with the China Everbright Environment and Delegation led by Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr Wang Silian; a bilateral meeting with the Shenzhen Yujiaocheng Technology Co (YJC Group) and Jiangsu Joylong Automobile Co, led by Mr Derrick Zho and Mr Ni Haifei respectively; a meeting with Ms Shirley Chan, Deputy Secretary General of the South Africa-China Shenzhen Chamber of Commerce and her delegation; a guided tour and bilateral engagement with the Senior Leadership of Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics.

On the final day of his Working Visit, Deputy President Mashatile held a bilateral meeting with the China Communist Party Secretary of Shenzhen, Mr Jin Lei and his delegation as well as traveled to Dongguan for a guided tour of the South Africa Commodity China Exhibition and Trade Centre (SACC), a platform for strengthening commercial and economic relations between South Africa and China through imports and exports.

“South Africa values institutions that create practical mechanisms for expanding trade, attracting investment, and facilitating business partnerships between our two Republics,” said the Deputy President as he concluded the Working Visit.

He was accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Zuko Godlimpi and senior Government officials.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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L’Afrique du Sud et Afreximbank signent un Programme-pays de 14 milliards de dollars US pour accélérer le développement industriel et le commerce

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Banque Africaine d’Export-Import (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) et le Gouvernement de la République d’Afrique du Sud, par l’intermédiaire du Département du commerce, de l’industrie et de la concurrence, ont signé un protocole d’accord (MoU) visant à promouvoir le développement industriel, l’expansion du commerce et l’intégration régionale de l’Afrique du Sud. 

Signé à Alamein, en Égypte, le 20 juin 2026, ce protocole d’accord établit un Programme-pays d’un montant de 14 milliards de dollars US, dans le cadre duquel Afreximbank déploiera une combinaison d’interventions financières et non financières pour soutenir les priorités de développement de l’Afrique du Sud, l’une des plus grandes économies du continent. 

Le protocole d’accord a été signé par Dr George Elombi, Président d’Afreximbank et du Conseil d’administration de la Banque, et l’Honorable Mpho Parks Tau, Ministre sud-africain du Commerce, de l’Industrie et de la Concurrence. 

La conclusion de ce partenariat marque une étape importante dans le renforcement de la coopération entre l’Afrique du Sud et l’institution financière multilatérale panafricaine, à la suite de l’adhésion de l’Afrique du Sud à l’Accord portant création d’Afreximbank en février 2026. Le protocole d’accord vise à soutenir les investissements dans les infrastructures industrielles, la production et le transport d’énergie, ainsi que d’autres infrastructures contribuant à renforcer la compétitivité industrielle de l’Afrique du Sud et ses liens commerciaux et d’investissement avec le reste du continent.  

Le Programme-pays comprend également le Programme d’appui au développement inclusif d’Afreximbank pour l’Afrique du Sud, conçu pour remédier aux lacunes structurelles de l’économie et élargir l’accès au financement pour les groupes historiquement défavorisés, afin de leur permettre d’accumuler des actifs, de participer pleinement aux secteurs stratégiques et de contribuer à une redistribution plus inclusive des opportunités économiques dans le pays. La Banque a réservé un montant total de 3 milliards de dollars US pour soutenir cette initiative. 

 S’exprimant à cette occasion, Dr George Elombi, Président d’Afreximbank et Président du Conseil d’administration de la Banque, a déclaré : « Grâce à ce protocole d’accord, Afreximbank et la République d’Afrique du Sud franchissent une étape importante dans le renforcement de leur partenariat au service des priorités de développement du pays et de l’intégration économique du continent. Ce Programme-pays permettra de mobiliser des investissements dans des secteurs stratégiques de l’économie sud-africaine, y compris la transformation locale des ressources minières et agricoles, l’expansion des échanges commerciaux entre l’Afrique du Sud et le reste du continent dans le cadre de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf), la promotion des investissements sud-africains à travers l’Afrique ainsi que le renforcement de l’inclusion financière et économique. Ce programme permettra également à Afreximbank d’étendre davantage son action en faveur du développement à l’échelle de tout le continent ». 

Pour sa part, l’Honorable Mpho Parks Tau, Ministre du Commerce, de l’Industrie et de la Concurrence de l’Afrique du Sud, a indiqué : « Ce protocole d’accord vise également à soutenir la mise en œuvre de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf) en favorisant le développement de chaînes de valeur régionales plus robustes et en remédiant aux contraintes transfrontalières qui continuent d’entraver la libre circulation des biens, des services et des capitaux à travers le continent ». 

Parmi les autres domaines de coopération figurent la relance et le financement du Programme sud-africain de promotion du commerce et de l’investissement en Afrique (SATIPP 2.0), la création d’une Banque sud-africaine d’import-export (South Africa Exim Bank) grâce à un appui technique, managérial, financier et opérationnel ainsi qu’à un financement de démarrage, la préparation et le développement conjoints de projets, le financement de la création et de l’extension de parcs industriels et de zones économiques spéciales (ZES), le cofinancement de projets énergétiques, y compris dans les énergies renouvelables, la valorisation des ressources minières, ainsi que le renforcement des capacités institutionnelles, l’assistance technique et les services de conseil. 

Le Programme-pays est aligné sur le Plan national de développement (NDP) de l’Afrique du Sud à l’horizon 2030, le Plan de développement à moyen terme (2024-2029), le Plan de mise en œuvre pour la croissance et l’inclusion (GAIN) et les stratégies nationales en matière d’industrie et de commerce. ​

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact presse : 
Vincent Musumba 
Responsable de la communication et des événements (relations avec les médias) 
E-mail : press@afreximbank.com  ​

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À propos d’Afreximbank : 
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2025, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 48,5 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 8,4 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A par GCR, A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et Baa2 par Moody’s. Moody’s (Baa2) et S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.  

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com  

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A República da África do Sul e o Afreximbank assinam um Programa Nacional no valor de 14 mil milhões de dólares americanos para acelerar o desenvolvimento industrial e o comércio

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) e o Governo da República da África do Sul, através do Departamento de Comércio, Indústria e Concorrência (o “dtic”) assinaram um Memorando de Entendimento (MdE) que visa promover o desenvolvimento industrial, a expansão do comércio e a integração regional da África do Sul. 

Assinado em Alamein, Egipto, a 20 de Junho de 2026, o MdE estabelece um programa nacional no valor de 14 mil milhões de dólares, ao abrigo do qual o Afreximbank irá implementar uma combinação de intervenções financeiras e não financeiras em apoio às prioridades de desenvolvimento da África do Sul, uma das maiores economias do continente. 

O MdE foi assinado pelo Dr. George Elombi, Presidente do Conselho de Administração do Afreximbank, e por S. Ex.ª Mpho Parks Tau, Ministro do Comércio, Indústria e Concorrência da África do Sul.   

A assinatura desta parceria marca um passo significativo no sentido de aprofundar a cooperação entre a África do Sul e a Instituição Financeira Multilateral Pan-Africana, na sequência da adesão da África do Sul ao Acordo de Constituição do Afreximbank em Fevereiro de 2026. O MdE visa apoiar investimentos em infra-estruturas industriais, produção e transmissão de energia, bem como noutras infra-estruturas que promovam a competitividade industrial da África do Sul e as suas ligações comerciais e de investimento com o resto do continente.  

O Programa Nacional inclui o Programa de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Inclusivo do Afreximbank para a África do Sul, concebido para colmatar lacunas estruturais na economia e alargar o acesso ao financiamento a grupos anteriormente desfavorecidos, permitindo-lhes constituir activos, participar de forma significativa em sectores estratégicos e contribuir para uma redistribuição mais inclusiva das oportunidades económicas em toda a África do Sul. O Banco destinou um total de 3 mil milhões de dólares americanos para apoiar esta iniciativa. 

O Dr. George Elombi, Presidente do Conselho de Administração do Afreximbank, afirmou: “Com este MdE, o Afreximbank e a República da África do Sul deram um passo significativo para reforçar a nossa parceria, com vista a apoiar as prioridades de desenvolvimento da África do Sul e a promover a integração económica de África. O programa nacional irá desbloquear fluxos de investimento para sectores estratégicos da economia sul-africana, incluindo o processamento de matérias-primas minerais e agrícolas na África do Sul, a expansão do comércio entre a África do Sul e o resto do continente no âmbito da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (ZCLCA) e a promoção do investimento sul-africano em toda África, bem como o avanço da inclusão financeira e económica. O programa nacional permite ainda ao Afreximbank alargar a sua presença no desenvolvimento a todo o continente.” 

S. Ex.ª Mpho Parks Tau, Ministro do Comércio, Indústria e Concorrência da África do Sul, indicou que: “O MdE visa igualmente impulsionar a implementação da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (ZCLCA) através da promoção de cadeias de valor regionais (CVR) mais fortes e da resolução dos obstáculos transfronteiriços que continuam a inibir o fluxo livre de bens, serviços e capitais em todo o continente.” 

Outras áreas importantes de colaboração incluem o relançamento e o financiamento do Programa de Promoção do Comércio e do Investimento África-África (SATIPP) 2.0, a criação de um Banco Exim da África do Sul através da prestação de apoio técnico, de gestão, financeiro e operacional e/ou de financiamento inicial, actividades conjuntas de concepção e preparação de projectos, financiamento para a criação e expansão de parques industriais e Zonas Económicas Especiais (ZEE), co-financiamento de projectos no sector da energia, incluindo energias renováveis, beneficiação do minério, bem como capacidade institucional, assistência técnica e serviços de consultoria.” 

O Programa Nacional está alinhado com o Plano Nacional de Desenvolvimento (NDP) 2030 da África do Sul, o Plano de Desenvolvimento a Médio Prazo (2024-2029), o Plano de Implementação para Impulsionar o Crescimento e a Inclusão (GAIN) e as estratégias industriais e comerciais. 

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

Contacto para a Imprensa: 
Vincent Musumba 
Gestor de Comunicações e Eventos (Relações com a Imprensa) 
Correio Electrónico: press@afreximbank.com ​

Siga-nos no: 
X: https://apo-opa.co/4xQoSOM
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3Sq25t7
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4eF7CDn
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4eLbhzw

Sobre o Afreximbank: 
O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) é uma instituição financeira multilateral pan-africana com mandato para financiar e promover o comércio intra e extra-africano. Há mais de 30 anos que o Banco utiliza estruturas inovadoras para oferecer soluções de financiamento que apoiam a transformação da estrutura do comércio africano, acelerando a industrialização e o comércio intra-regional, impulsionando assim a expansão económica em África. Apoiante firme do Acordo de Comércio Livre Continental Africano (ACLCA), o Afreximbank lançou um Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamento e Liquidação (PAPSS) que foi adoptado pela União Africana (UA) como plataforma de pagamento e liquidação para sustentar a implementação da ZCLCA. Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a UA, o Banco criou um Fundo de Ajustamento de 10 mil milhões de dólares para apoiar os países que participam de forma efectiva na ZCLCA. No final de Dezembro de 2025, o total de activos e passivos contingentes do Afreximbank atingiu mais de 48,5 mil milhões de USD, e os seus fundos próprios totalizaram 8,4 mil milhões de USD. O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), pela GCR (A), pela Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e pela Moody’s (Baa2)  e pela S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto. 

Para mais informações, visite: www.Afreximbank.com. 

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Remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at a meeting with Kings and Queens on Government's approach to managing migration

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Majesties, Kings and Queens,
Ministers,
Officials,
Colleagues, 

Thank you for accepting my invitation to this meeting to discuss a matter that concerns all our people: the issue of migration.

We would like to brief you on government’s approach on this issue.

We would also like to be informed by the wisdom, experiences and concerns of those who lead our people and who are the custodians of our customs and our traditions. 

For generations, the peoples of our region have been bound together by ties of kinship, culture and history that pay no heed to the borders drawn on maps. 

Many of the people you lead share ancestry, language and customs with people in neighbouring countries. 

Over recent months, South Africans from every walk of life have raised concerns about migration, and illegal immigration in particular. 

These concerns arise in conditions of persistently high unemployment, poverty and hardship. 

They arise in communities that are plagued by crime, violence and corruption, and where there is increasing pressure on public services. 

Yet illegal immigration is not the cause of our social and economic difficulties. 

To tackle the challenges our country faces, we need faster and more inclusive growth, job creation and development. 

Migration is not the cause of our problems, but it is something that we must manage constructively and collectively.

We must do so while always holding firm to our Constitutional principles and shared values. 

We are mindful that the recent mobilisation against foreign nationals carries real risks for our communities and for our country. 

Unrest, violence and intimidation tear at the social fabric of our communities.

They endanger lives and they damage the standing and the reputation our country has worked hard to build. 

We have seen how some other African countries have raised concerns about the mobilisation of anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa. 

This has been worsened by the spread of misinformation and disinformation. 

These developments strain the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood that unite us with our neighbours on the African continent. 

When I addressed the nation on the 7th of June to outline government’s Comprehensive Approach to Managing Migration, I said that every person within our borders must be here lawfully. 

I said that responsibility for enforcing our laws rests with the state, and that no individual may stop another to demand documentation or proof of nationality. 

I said that there is no place for racism, sexism, tribalism, xenophobia, Afrophobia or any other form of intolerance. 

The comprehensive approach adopted by Cabinet rests upon five pillars. 

Firstly, we are cracking down on violations of immigration, labour and other laws. 

Secondly, we are securing our borders. 

Thirdly, we are strengthening our immigration system by rooting out corruption and deploying advanced technology. 

Fourthly, we are closing the gaps in our laws and policies. 

Fifthly, we are working with our sister countries through SADC and the African Union to address the conditions that compel people to migrate. 

As a country, we need to have a common view and to take a common approach to managing migration. 

Our Kings and Queens have a vital role to play in this effort. 

As the traditional sovereigns of many of our people, as leaders who command deep trust and moral authority, you are well placed to speak out against intolerance and instability.

You can use your standing to calm tensions, resolve disputes through dialogue and prevent communities from being mobilised for violence and disorder. 

Through the spirit of Ubuntu that you embody and protect, you can remind our people that we are defined by our humanity towards one another. 

You continue to guide and unite your communities, working with government and other social partners to address the very conditions of poverty, unemployment and underdevelopment in which these tensions take root. 

I hope that we can emerge from this meeting with a clear sense of how government, our traditional monarchs and the institution of traditional leadership more broadly can work together to address this challenge. 

While there are immediate pressures, the issue of migration is something that we must remain engaged with not only now, but into the future.

Thank you again for accepting my invitation and I look forward to our discussion. 

I thank you.

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President Herminie Joins Official Opening of Jubilee Expo as Seychelles Showcases Innovation

Source: APO


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A vibrant showcase of Seychellois innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity officially opened this evening with President Dr Patrick Herminie attending the launch of the Jubilee Expo, one of the flagship events marking Seychelles’ 50th anniversary of Independence.

Held under the theme “Invest | Innovate | Inspire”, the Jubilee Expo brings together businesses, organisations, innovators, entrepreneurs and exhibitors from across the country to showcase local products, services, technology, agriculture, creative industries and business development initiatives.

Also in attendance were First Lady Mrs Veronique Herminie, Daughter Ms Vanessa Herminie, Vice President Sebastien Pillay and his wife, Mrs Lina Pillay, Cabinet Ministers, Members of the National Assembly, members of the diplomatic corps, exhibitors and invited guests.

The opening ceremony featured a rich cultural programme, beginning with a saxophone performance by Mr Marcus Labrosse, followed by the recital of the poem Senk Deseni by Ms Stephanie Joubert. President Herminie also presented Recognition Awards to Mr John Writz and Mr Keven Rath in acknowledgement of their valuable contributions.

A symbolic cake-cutting ceremony was held with Seychellois citizens celebrating their 50th birthday in 2026, marking a shared milestone with the nation’s Golden Jubilee. Musical performances by Ziggy Adam with Nou La and Danielle Morel with Avan Tou added to the celebratory atmosphere.

Delivering the keynote address, Principal Minister and Chairman of the National Day Celebrations Committee, Wallace Cosgrow, highlighted the vital role of innovation, technology and entrepreneurship in shaping Seychelles’ future. He stressed that innovation is no longer confined to laboratories and research institutions, but is increasingly reflected in businesses, agriculture and the creativity of young entrepreneurs.

Minister Cosgrow described knowledge, technology and ambition as key drivers of economic growth and national competitiveness. He also underscored the importance of the Horticulture Show, noting that modern agriculture must embrace science, technology, sustainability and climate resilience to strengthen food security and national resilience.

Encouraging young people to embrace innovation and think beyond conventional boundaries, Minister Cosgrow said the next chapter of Seychelles’ development would be shaped by the ideas, creativity and determination of its people. He described the Jubilee Expo as a platform for businesses, innovators, investors, students and the wider public to exchange ideas, build partnerships and create new opportunities for sustainable national development.

Following the official opening ceremony, President Herminie toured the exhibition, visiting a wide range of stands and engaging with exhibitors. He learned more about their products, services and innovations, and commended their contribution to national development as Seychelles celebrates 50 years of Independence.

The Jubilee Expo forms part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations commemorating the 50th anniversary of Seychelles’ Independence under the national theme “Nou Pep, Nou Lidantite, Nou Desten”, celebrating the nation’s achievements while inspiring continued innovation, investment and collaboration for the future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Économie : La Côte d’Ivoire achève avec succès son programme avec le Fonds Monétaire International (FMI) et accède au statut de pays à faible risque de surendettement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Côte d’Ivoire a franchi une étape majeure dans le renforcement de sa crédibilité financière internationale avec la conclusion réussie de son programme économique et financier avec le Fonds Monétaire International (FMI). À l’issue de la sixième et dernière revue, le pays a atteint l’ensemble des objectifs du programme, confirmant la robustesse de sa trajectoire macroéconomique et budgétaire, ainsi que l’efficacité des réformes mises en œuvre au cours des dernières années.

Selon l’analyse de viabilité de la dette (AVD) menée conjointement par le FMI et la Banque mondiale, la Côte d’Ivoire est désormais classée en risque « faible » de surendettement, tant sur sa dette publique extérieure que sur sa dette publique totale. Elle devient ainsi le seul pays d’Afrique subsaharienne à accéder à cette catégorie. 

Cette reclassification repose sur trois avancées majeures : le renforcement de la capacité d’endettement grâce à l’amélioration des indicateurs macroéconomiques et institutionnels, une gestion proactive et innovante de la dette publique, ainsi qu’une amélioration de la dynamique d’endettement, portée par la consolidation budgétaire et la mobilisation accrue des recettes.

Cette évolution met fin à plus d’une décennie de classement en risque « modéré », consécutif à l’atteinte du point d’achèvement de l’Initiative en faveur des pays pauvres très endettés (PPTE) en 2012. Le passage en risque « faible » correspond à une situation caractérisée par l’absence de dépassement des seuils de viabilité de la dette, témoignant de la résilience accrue des finances publiques ivoiriennes face aux chocs extérieurs. Il reflète à la fois une gestion plus prudente et plus sophistiquée de la dette, une discipline budgétaire renforcée et une amélioration des fondamentaux macroéconomiques, selon l’institution financière.

Cette reclassification offre des marges de manœuvre nouvelles dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre de la stratégie de financement du pays et de la poursuite des réformes dans le cadre du Plan National de Développement (PND) 2026 – 2030. Elle s’inscrit en cohérence avec les évaluations déjà attribuées par les agences internationales, BB (S&P) / Ba2 (Moody’s) / BB (Fitch), et constitue un signal fort à l’attention de celles-ci, ainsi que de celle des investisseurs internationaux. 

Enfin, elle constitue un jalon important dans la trajectoire d’amélioration de la notation souveraine du pays vers la catégorie « Investment Grade» et accompagne la transition progressive de la Côte d’Ivoire vers le groupe des pays ayant un accès soutenu aux marchés selon la typologie FMI.

Le ministère de l’Économie, des Finances et du Budget s’est félicité de cette avancée qui consacre la pertinence des politiques économiques conduites par le gouvernement, la crédibilité de sa stratégie de gestion de la dette et la résilience de l’économie nationale.

Cette annonce s’accompagne de l’approbation par le Conseil d’administration du FMI des ultimes décaissements du programme, pour un montant total de 843,9 millions de dollars, confortant les efforts du gouvernement pour positionner durablement la Côte d’Ivoire parmi les signatures souveraines les plus crédibles du continent africain.

Distribué par APO Group pour Portail Officiel du Gouvernement de Côte d’Ivoire.