Category: MIL-OSI

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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 ​

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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.

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United Nations (UN) envoy urges parties to ‘stay the course’ towards peace in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo)

Source: APO


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James Swan delivered his first briefing to the Security Council nearly a year after the DRC and Rwanda signed a peace agreement in Washington, DC.

Together with the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement signed in Qatar and mediation efforts led by the African Union (AU), these processes have created “an agreed pathway” to address the protracted conflict in eastern DRC.

“It is now imperative that momentum be maintained, and that the commitments agreed to by the signatories be fully implemented,” he said.

Fighting continues in key areas

Mr. Swan who was appointed in March to head the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the DRC, known by the French acronym MONUSCO.

He warned that the security situation in the east remains highly unstable and civilians continue to pay a heavy toll amid ongoing clashes in North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri provinces.

Heavy fighting has continued between the Alliance Fleuve Congo/23rd of March Movement (AFC/M23), supported by Rwandan forces, and the Congolese Army (FARDC) allied with the Wazalendo armed group. 

In some areas, the Congolese troops are backed by the Democratic Forces for the Freedom of Rwanda (FDLR), a largely ethnic Hutu armed group founded by former perpetrators of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

Clashes are mainly occurring in two locations in North Kivu, namely Rubaya, an important mining centre, and in the area around Rutshuru, but also in the high plains of South Kivu.

He said the use of offensive drones, artillery and heavy weapons has sharply increased risks to civilians and infrastructure.

Although the AFC/M23 has partially withdrawn from some areas, the group continues to consolidate parallel administrative structures in territory under its control.

Mr. Swan called for the swift deployment of the mechanism for monitoring and verifying ceasefire commitments under the Doha process.

MONUSCO has provided the mechanism with office space in the city of Goma, along with equipment and furniture, and is preparing logistical and security support for ceasefire monitoring missions.

Civilians under fire

The envoy also highlighted the continuing threat posed by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). Since the Council last met on the DRC, the armed group has killed 287 civilians in Ituri, including 44 women.

In North Kivu, ADF violence eased temporarily earlier this year but resumed recently in Beni territory, where 66 civilians have been killed, including 17 women and three children.

Since 19 March, MONUSCO has documented 632 civilian deaths linked to armed conflict in North Kivu and Ituri.

During the same period, the UN also documented 1,221 human rights violations, including conflict-related sexual violence committed by armed groups and members of the defence and security forces.  A total of 2,968 victims, including 392 women and 378 children, were affected.

MONUSCO has intensified patrols and increased mobile operating bases in areas affected by ADF attacks and around sites for internally displaced persons. Since 19 March, peacekeepers and the Congolese Army have conducted more than 2,000 joint patrols.

The mission has also supported local and provincial peace mechanisms, particularly in Ituri, where progress has been made on implementing a roadmap for dialogue among armed groups in Aru.

Support for both security sector reform as well as disarmament, demobilization and reintegration efforts continue. Between March and June, MONUSCO facilitated the repatriation of 156 former Rwandan combatants and 163 dependents associated with FDLR and other foreign armed groups.

Ebola outbreak amid humanitarian crisis

Mr. Swan underscored MONUSCO’s commitment to implement its mandate despite the liquidity crisis hitting UN peace operations at a time when needs are surging in the DRC.

The humanitarian situation remains grave, with nearly 27 million people — more than a quarter of the population — experiencing food insecurity. A $1.4 billion humanitarian plan to assist 7.3 million people this year is just over 53 per cent funded.

The situation is further compounded by the Ebola outbreak declared on 15 May which is unfolding in an area affected by active conflict and in urban settings with overstretched health services, thus posing significant risks of further spread.

UN support unwavering

Mr. Swan concluded his briefing by urging all parties to the Washington and Doha agreements “to stay the course toward a durable peace.”

He also reiterated calls made by the UN Secretary-General for all parties to fully comply with two Security Council resolutions which reaffirm respect for the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of the DRC.

“MONUSCO’s support for the aspirations of the Congolese people for sustainable peace, security and development remains unwavering,” he said.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

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Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Delegation Undertakes Strategic Benchmarking Visit to United Nations Global Service Centre (UNGSC) Brindisi

Source: APO


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A high-level ECOWAS delegation led by the Commissioner for Internal Services is undertaking a benchmarking and study visit to the United Nations Global Service Centre (UNGSC) in Brindisi, Italy from the 23rd to the 25th of June, 2025.

The visit forms part of the Commission’s efforts to strengthen its institutional support systems and enhance the operational development of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot (ELD) in Lungi, Sierra Leone. Through technical briefings, facility tours, and interactive engagements with UNGSC officials, the delegation is examining international best practices in logistics support, supply chain management, infrastructure development, digital transformation, sustainability, asset management, and mission support operations.

The engagement also provides an opportunity to explore future areas of cooperation between ECOWAS and the United Nations in support of regional peace, security, humanitarian response, and institutional resilience.

The visit underscores ECOWAS’ commitment to building modern, efficient, and sustainable support systems capable of meeting the evolving needs of the Community and its Member States.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Regional Trade Facilitation Meets to Examine the Status of Implementation of Trade Facilitation Reforms and Accelrate the Elimination of Non-Tariff Barriers

Source: APO


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The ECOWAS Commission organized the 7th Meeting of the ECOWAS Regional Trade Facilitation Committee (RTFC) in Banjul, The Gambia from 15th to 17th June 2026. The objective of the meeting was to strengthen regional coordination and advance the implementation of trade facilitation reforms in ECOWAS by enhancing border management, addressing non-tariff barriers, and promoting digitalization of cross-border trade.

In his remarks on behalf of the Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment of the Gambia, Mr Lamin CAMARA, Permanent Secretary, welcomed delegates to the 7th Meeting of the RTFC in Banjul and expressed appreciation to the ECOWAS Commission for selecting The Gambia to host the Meeting. He underscored that trade facilitation remains central to the ECOWAS integration agenda and highlighted the importance of reducing the cost and time associated with cross-border trade. While acknowledging the progress made by ECOWAS, he noted that persistent challenges, including non-tariff barriers (NTBs), fragmented border procedures, multiple checkpoints, duplicative inspections, and opaque regulations, continue to hinder regional trade and disproportionately affect Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and small-scale cross-border traders. He further outlined national achievements in trade facilitation, including the modernization of customs systems through digital upgrades, the implementation of electronic cargo tracking systems, and investments in port infrastructure through public-private partnerships.

In his goodwill remarks, Mr Moussa TROARE, Trade Promotion Officer at the UEMOA Commission, reaffirmed UEMOA’s commitment to regional trade facilitation and economic integration efforts within West Africa. He welcomed the convening of the 7th ECOWAS RTFC Meeting and commended ECOWAS for sustaining an important platform for dialogue and coordination on trade facilitation reforms. He highlighted that the region continues to face numerous old and emerging challenges affecting trade and cross-border commerce. In this context, he emphasized the importance of maintaining and strengthening dialogue platforms that enable stakeholders to identify root causes of trade barriers and develop effective and sustainable solutions. He concluded by underscoring the need to begin discussions on the long-term sustainability of NTFCs and their financing, particularly in light of evolving global funding constraints.

On behalf of the Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Dr Kalilou SYLLA, Mr. Kolawole SOFOLA, Director of Trade, welcomed participants and expressed appreciation to the Government of The Gambia for hosting the meeting. He recalled the key directives adopted by Ministers during the 5th Joint Meeting of ECOWAS Ministers of Trade and Industry held in Accra on 11 – 12 June 2026, including the selection of regional champions to spearhead the elimination of non-tariff barriers as well as digitalization of trade procedures in the region. He also highlighted the important participation of a wide range of stakeholders, ensuring that trade facilitation reforms respond to the realities faced by traders and border communities. He recalled that the RTFC was established by the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in 2021 as the principal platform for dialogue, coordination, monitoring and peer review of trade facilitation reforms in the region. He noted that the Committee is a critical mechanism for ensuring implementation of commitments under: the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA); the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA); and ECOWAS regional trade instruments.

During three days, Experts from Member States representing ministries responsible for trade, customs administration, national private sector, as well as civil society organizations and development partners, discussed and made recommendations including the improved regional coordination on border management, enhanced regional approach to addressing non-tariff barriers (NTBs), accelerated digitalization of cross-border trade processes and the deployment and interoperability of single window systems, trade information portals, and digital customs instruments, including SIGMAT, electronic certificates of origin, and e-phyto systems.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Des voix du continent appellent à accélérer la transformation des systèmes pharmaceutiques africains

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Réunis à l’occasion de la 25e édition du Forum Pharmaceutique International (FPI), décideurs, universitaires, régulateurs, industriels et partenaires de santé ont appelé à accélérer la transformation des systèmes pharmaceutiques africains afin de renforcer l’accès à des médicaments sûrs, efficaces et abordables sur le continent.

Organisée du 9 au 11 juin 2026, cette édition a mis l’accent sur plusieurs priorités majeures pour l’Afrique, notamment la production locale, le renforcement de la réglementation pharmaceutique, la formation des ressources humaines, l’innovation et la coopération régionale. Au fil des discussions, un constat s’est imposé : malgré les progrès réalisés ces dernières années, le continent reste confronté à des défis importants en matière d’accès aux médicaments et de résilience des systèmes pharmaceutiques.

La souveraineté pharmaceutique a ainsi occupé une place centrale dans les débats. Plusieurs participants ont souligné que l’Afrique ne pourra durablement améliorer l’accès aux médicaments sans renforcer ses capacités de production.

« La souveraineté pharmaceutique passe avant tout par la production locale. Tant que l’Afrique dépendra fortement des importations de produits pharmaceutiques, il sera difficile de garantir durablement la disponibilité de médicaments de qualité et à coût abordable pour nos populations », a affirmé le Dr Ayoub Moussa Abderaman, Directeur général de la Pharmacie, du Médicament et des Laboratoires du Tchad.

Les échanges ont également mis en lumière l’importance de consolider l’ensemble de la chaîne pharmaceutique, depuis la réglementation jusqu’à la distribution des produits de santé. La disponibilité des médicaments ne dépend pas uniquement de leur production ; elle repose aussi sur la capacité des systèmes à les acheminer jusqu’aux patients, y compris dans les zones les plus reculées. Les participants ont notamment insisté sur le rôle que peuvent jouer des cadres réglementaires harmonisés, des chaînes d’approvisionnement performantes et des ressources humaines qualifiées pour améliorer durablement l’accès aux produits de santé.

La question du capital humain est revenue à plusieurs reprises au cours des discussions. Pour de nombreux participants, le développement des systèmes pharmaceutiques africains passera nécessairement par des investissements dans la formation, la recherche et l’innovation.

« La formation doit être adaptée aux besoins de développement de nos pays. Les professionnels qui sortent de nos universités doivent être capables de répondre aux défis de santé de leurs populations et de contribuer au développement de leurs sociétés », a souligné le Professeur Mahama Ouattara, Président de la Conférence des Doyens des Facultés de Pharmacie d’Afrique.

Cette vision va au-delà de la seule acquisition de compétences techniques. Elle repose sur la capacité des universités à former des professionnels aptes à accompagner les transformations du secteur et à développer des solutions adaptées aux réalités africaines. Plusieurs intervenants ont notamment insisté sur la nécessité de renforcer les liens entre la recherche, l’innovation et la santé publique, tout en valorisant davantage les ressources scientifiques et les savoirs du continent.

La coopération régionale est apparue comme un autre levier incontournable pour accélérer les progrès. Face à des marchés fragmentés et à des systèmes réglementaires souvent inégaux, les participants ont plaidé pour une approche plus coordonnée entre les pays africains, associant autorités nationales de réglementation, organisations régionales, industriels et partenaires techniques.

Cette nécessité a été mise en avant par le Dr Aimé Djitafo Fah, Coordonnateur du programme sous-régional d’harmonisation des politiques pharmaceutiques à l’Organisation de Coordination pour la lutte contre les Endémies en Afrique Centrale (OCEAC) : « Aucun acteur ne peut relever seul les défis liés à l’accès aux médicaments. Les autorités de réglementation, les industriels, les partenaires techniques et les organisations régionales doivent avancer ensemble. La synergie d’action est indispensable si nous voulons améliorer durablement l’accessibilité et la disponibilité des médicaments », a-t-il déclaré.

Selon lui, le renforcement des autorités nationales de réglementation, l’harmonisation des normes et le développement de partenariats durables constituent des conditions essentielles pour accompagner la montée en puissance de la production locale et améliorer la qualité des produits mis à la disposition des populations.

Les discussions ont par ailleurs montré que les enjeux pharmaceutiques dépassent largement la seule question du médicament. Ils touchent à la sécurité sanitaire, à la couverture sanitaire universelle, à la lutte contre les produits médicaux de qualité inférieure ou falsifiés, ainsi qu’à la capacité des pays à répondre efficacement aux crises sanitaires et humanitaires. 

Les échanges ont offert un espace de dialogue entre des acteurs venus d’horizons différents mais partageant les mêmes préoccupations. Les participants ont eu l’occasion de confronter leurs expériences, identifier des solutions communes et renforcer les perspectives de collaboration entre institutions, universités, secteur privé et partenaires.

Pour l’OMS, le renforcement des systèmes pharmaceutiques demeure un pilier essentiel de la résilience des systèmes de santé : « Investir dans les systèmes pharmaceutiques, c’est investir dans la sécurité sanitaire, l’innovation et l’accès équitable aux soins. Des institutions plus fortes, des réglementations efficaces et des partenariats durables sont essentiels pour répondre aux besoins des populations aujourd’hui et demain », a souligné la Dre Blanche Anya, Représentante de l’OMS au Tchad. 

Alors que les participants ont quitté N’Djamena avec de nouvelles perspectives de collaboration, plusieurs priorités demeurent au cœur des attentes : accélérer la production locale, renforcer l’harmonisation réglementaire, soutenir l’innovation et investir davantage dans la formation des futurs professionnels du secteur. Pour beaucoup, le succès du Forum se mesurera désormais à la capacité de transformer les engagements et les recommandations formulés à N’Djamena en actions concrètes au bénéfice des populations africaines.

À travers les voix exprimées lors de cette 25e édition, un message commun s’est dégagé : renforcer les systèmes pharmaceutiques africains n’est pas seulement une question de médicaments. C’est un investissement dans la souveraineté sanitaire, la résilience des systèmes de santé et la capacité du continent à répondre durablement aux besoins de ses populations.

Distribué par APO Group pour World Health Organization (WHO) – Chad.

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Mahama announces $3.5bn investment to boost Ghana’s oil production

Source: APO

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a major turnaround in Ghana’s energy sector, revealing $3.5 billion in new commitments from global energy giants to reverse a six-year production slump.

At a ground-breaking ceremony for Phase 2 of the Sentuo Oil Refinery Project in Tema, he outlined a roadmap to revitalise the industry. The investment includes $2 billion from Jubilee partners to drill up to 20 new wells and $1.5 billion from OCTP partners for field development and exploration.

“We have committed upstream players to invest more money to drill new wells to raise the volumes of oil and gas we are producing,” President Mahama stated.

The President said these interventions are already yielding results. Ghana is set to record a net increase in crude oil production for the first time in several years. Output at the Jubilee field has risen from 60,000 to 85,000 barrels per day, with measurable gains also recorded at the TEN and Sankofa fields.

Building on this growth strategy, the government has initiated the commercialisation of the Afina Discovery and ratified a new petroleum agreement in the offshore Tano West basin.

“This expansion is not merely an investment in infrastructure,” the President emphasised. “It is an investment in Ghana’s future, our energy security, and our economic resilience.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

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