Category: MIL-OSI

Posted on

New FMD control measures to support farmers, protect trade

Source: Government of South Africa

New FMD control measures to support farmers, protect trade

Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has approved a new set of national Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) control measures aimed at providing livestock farmers with a clearer path to recovery during outbreaks while safeguarding South Africa’s agricultural trade and biosecurity.

The measures, which will take effect once published in the Government Gazette, consolidate and replace a range of previous directives, including the 2019 FMD Contingency Plan and subsequent amendments.

The new framework creates a single, integrated national system for managing FMD outbreaks from detection through to recovery.

Announcing the changes on Thursday, Steenhuisen said livestock producers require certainty and practical solutions to manage disease outbreaks without unnecessarily threatening their livelihoods.

“South Africa’s livestock producers need clear rules, sound science and practical pathways that allow them to manage outbreaks without unnecessarily jeopardising their livelihoods,” he said.

Foot and Mouth Disease remains one of the most economically damaging animal diseases affecting the livestock sector, with outbreaks capable of disrupting production, limiting market access and placing severe financial pressure on farmers and rural communities.

A key feature of the new measures is the introduction of risk-based pathways that allow certain trade activities to resume during quarantine periods.

Animals may be sent to designated FMD abattoirs from 16 days after a property has been declared clinically clear, while broader slaughter options, including export-approved facilities, become available after 42 days.

The revised framework also clarifies that vaccinated animals that have never been infected and are not under quarantine remain healthy and may continue to be traded and moved under normal regulations.

Steenhuisen said the objective was to balance disease control with economic sustainability.

“The objective is simple: protect animal health and stop the disease spreading, while ensuring that farmers can continue operating safely wherever possible,” he said.

The measures further reduce unnecessary destruction of animal products and agricultural inputs. 

Based on updated scientific understanding of the FMD virus, products such as feed, fodder and manure will now be managed according to scientifically established risk periods rather than blanket disposal requirements.

Another major reform is the introduction of alternative recovery pathways for affected farms.

Producers will no longer automatically be required to remove entire herds before quarantine restrictions can be lifted. Instead, they will be able to choose from several options, including restocking with vaccinated animals or sourcing livestock from FMD-free areas.

“For many farmers, particularly those operating under difficult financial conditions, the prospect of losing an entire herd can be devastating. These measures introduce practical alternatives that are scientifically sound and economically realistic,” Steenhuisen said.

The framework also introduces, for the first time, dedicated provisions for communal and peri-urban livestock systems.

The measures recognise the unique challenges associated with shared grazing areas, multiple ownership structures and different livestock movement patterns, providing tailored quarantine and vaccination approaches.

In addition, well-fenced farms will be able to manage outbreaks within affected sections of a property rather than placing entire operations under full quarantine.

Veterinary procedures have also been streamlined, and farmers seeking authorisation to move products will benefit from clearer response timelines and escalation mechanisms.

The measures were developed through extensive consultation with the Department of Agriculture, the Ministerial Task Team, the FMD Industry Coordination Council and veterinary experts.

Steenhuisen described the new framework as a significant step in strengthening South Africa’s biosecurity system while supporting the long-term sustainability of the livestock industry.

“These measures reflect the latest scientific evidence, recognise the realities facing farmers on the ground and provide a balanced framework that protects animal health while limiting economic disruption,” he said.

The Department of Agriculture will continue monitoring the effectiveness of the measures and has committed to conducting a formal review within 12 months of implementation. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Janine

0

Posted on

Centres africains de contrôle et de prévention des maladies (Africa CDC) appelle à la solidarité et au renforcement de la collaboration suite au cas importé de maladie à virus Ebola en France et renforce la surveillance transfrontalière

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Un professionnel de santé humanitaire ayant appuyé la riposte contre Ebola en République démocratique du Congo (RDC) a été diagnostiqué avec la maladie à virus Ebola en France.

Les autorités sanitaires de la France et de la RDC ont informé Africa CDC de ce cas confirmé, causé par le virus Ebola de type Bundibugyo. Le professionnel de santé a développé des symptômes après son arrivée en France, a rapidement sollicité une prise en charge médicale et a été diagnostiqué sans délai. Les dispositifs de surveillance et de notification prévus pour ce type de situation ont fonctionné.

Le professionnel de santé avait appuyé la riposte Ebola dans la province de l’Ituri du 19 mai au 19 juin. À l’issue de sa mission, il a quitté la RDC en bonne santé et s’est rendu en France. Il a ensuite développé des symptômes légers et consulté les services de santé. Les analyses de laboratoire ont confirmé une infection par le virus Ebola de type Bundibugyo.

Le risque de transmission d’Ebola commence après l’apparition des symptômes. Le professionnel de santé a quitté la RDC sans symptôme et a satisfait à toutes les exigences de voyage en vigueur. Le Gouvernement de la RDC a mis en place une surveillance renforcée, des contrôles sanitaires à l’entrée et à la sortie du territoire, ainsi que des mesures de santé aux frontières dans le cadre de la riposte Ebola, notamment aux principaux points d’entrée et de sortie, dans les aéroports des zones affectées et au niveau des grands hubs de transit.

Son Excellence Dr Jean Kaseya, Directeur Général d’Africa CDC, s’est entretenu avec le Ministre de la santee de la RDC, la Directrice du Centre européen de prévention et de contrôle des maladies (ECDC) ainsi qu’avec la Commissaire européenne chargée de la Préparation, de la Gestion des crises et de l’Égalité, Hadja Lahbib. Ils ont examiné la situation, renforcé la coordination et aligné les actions de santé publique en cours.

« Ce cas illustre l’importance d’une surveillance solide », a déclaré Son Excellence Dr Jean Kaseya, Directeur général d’Africa CDC. « Le professionnel de santé a quitté la République démocratique du Congo sans symptôme, et le Gouvernement de la RDC a mis en place une surveillance renforcée, des contrôles à l’entrée et à la sortie du territoire, ainsi que des mesures de santé aux frontières dans le cadre de la riposte Ebola. Les symptômes ont été identifiés après son arrivée en France, et le diagnostic a été posé rapidement grâce aux systèmes d’alerte et à la coordination internationale. Je tiens à remercier ce médecin, qui a servi en première ligne en Ituri du 19 mai au 19 juin, aux côtés des communautés affectées, avec courage et dévouement. Les agents de santé portent le poids le plus lourd dans cette épidémie. La réponse juste aujourd’hui repose sur la vigilance, la solidarité et un soutien renforcé aux équipes qui travaillent à mettre fin à Ebola à la source. Les partenaires du monde entier doivent se mobiliser et contribuer à mettre fin à cette épidémie. »

Africa CDC salue la rapidité de détection, de diagnostic et de notification des autorités sanitaires françaises. Le passage des premiers symptômes à la confirmation en laboratoire a été possible grâce à l’action rapide et au partage d’informations entre les partenaires nationaux, régionaux et internationaux. Une surveillance robuste, une notification rapide et une coopération internationale efficace protègent les communautés.

Des investigations sont en cours afin d’établir la période et les circonstances les plus probables de l’exposition et d’appuyer le traçage complet des contacts. Les autorités de la RDC et de la France, avec Africa CDC, l’OMS, l’ECDC et d’autres partenaires, conduisent des évaluations du risque et assurent le suivi des contacts identifiés conformément aux protocoles de santé publique établis.

Le niveau de risque global de l’épidémie demeure inchangé. Ce cas importé renforce la nécessité de maintenir une vigilance soutenue, de consolider la surveillance, d’appliquer rigoureusement les mesures de prévention et de contrôle des infections, et de continuer à soutenir les agents de santé de première ligne qui mènent la riposte.

Africa CDC appelle les partenaires et la communauté internationale à poursuivre leur appui à la riposte et à rejeter les mesures dépourvues de fondement scientifique, y compris les restrictions inutiles aux voyages et au commerce. Ces mesures ralentissent le déploiement des équipes de riposte et l’acheminement des fournitures essentielles, et affaiblissent l’action de santé publique.

Africa CDC réaffirme son engagement total aux côtés des Gouvernements de la RDC et de l’Ouganda pour contrôler l’épidémie, protéger les communautés et faire avancer une réponse continentale et mondiale coordonnée. Africa CDC continuera de suivre la situation de près et partagera de nouvelles informations dès qu’elles seront vérifiées.

Distribué par APO Group pour Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Contacts médias :
Saran Koly
Directrice de la Communication et de l’Information publique
Africa CDC
kolys@africacdc.org

À propos d’Africa CDC :
Les Centres africains de contrôle et de prévention des maladies (Africa CDC) sont l’agence continentale autonome de santé publique de l’Union africaine. Africa CDC appuie les États membres dans le renforcement des systèmes de santé et la promotion de la sécurité sanitaire à travers la surveillance des maladies, la préparation et la réponse aux urgences, le renseignement épidémiologique, les systèmes de laboratoire, le développement du personnel de santé, la recherche, l’innovation et les partenariats.

Posted on

Power Africa Today : African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 lance une nouvelle plateforme et une conférence consacrées à l’énergie pour intensifier la lutte contre la pauvreté énergétique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Plus de 600 millions de personnes en Afrique subsaharienne n’ont toujours pas accès à l’électricité, ce qui met en évidence une réalité crue : aucune source d’énergie ne pourra à elle seule combler le déficit énergétique du continent. C’est pourquoi les gouvernements africains s’orientent de plus en plus vers une stratégie énergétique multi-ressources – tirant parti du gaz naturel, des énergies renouvelables, de l’hydroélectricité et des actifs thermiques existants – afin d’élargir l’accès à l’électricité, d’améliorer la fiabilité du réseau et de progresser vers l’objectif d’éradication de la pauvreté énergétique d’ici 2030.

Ces priorités occuperont le devant de la scène lors de l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, dans le cadre de la conférence « Power Africa Today » récemment lancée. Cette plateforme réunira des dirigeants de services publics, des décideurs politiques, des investisseurs, des développeurs et des fournisseurs de technologies afin d’examiner comment l’expansion de la production, le développement des réseaux de transport, l’innovation en matière de financement et l’intégration des marchés régionaux peuvent accélérer l’électrification et la croissance industrielle à travers l’Afrique. Si les discussions porteront sur un large éventail de développements en cours à travers le continent – notamment l’expansion des énergies renouvelables, les projets de conversion du gaz en électricité, la modernisation du réseau et le commerce transfrontalier –, l’accent sera mis sur la manière dont ces efforts peuvent être mieux coordonnés pour aboutir à des solutions viables à l’échelle du système, capables de combler le déficit d’accès à l’énergie.

Le gaz naturel continue de jouer un rôle central dans le mix énergétique africain en tant que combustible flexible et régulable qui soutient la croissance industrielle et complète la production intermittente d’énergies renouvelables. Parallèlement, les gouvernements développent à grande échelle des projets solaires et éoliens à l’échelle des services publics, ainsi que des mini-réseaux décentralisés et des systèmes hors réseau visant à étendre l’accès aux communautés isolées. Les technologies émergentes telles que l’hydrogène vert commencent également à gagner du terrain, soutenues par des financements de démarrage et des cadres politiques, notamment l’appel à projets de 20 millions de dollars lancé par la Banque africaine de développement pour réduire les risques liés aux projets pilotes.

Parallèlement à l’expansion de la production, la réforme du secteur de l’électricité et le développement des infrastructures prennent de l’ampleur. Les réformes du marché de gros de l’électricité en Afrique du Sud et les plans d’extension à long terme du réseau de transport ouvrent la voie à une plus grande participation du secteur privé, tandis que le projet Amari Power Transmission en Ouganda – premier projet de transport indépendant financé par le secteur privé en Afrique à avoir atteint la clôture financière – témoigne de l’intérêt croissant des investisseurs pour les infrastructures de réseau.

L’intégration régionale s’accélère également, les pools énergétiques favorisant les échanges transfrontaliers d’électricité grâce à des cadres réglementaires harmonisés. Parallèlement, des initiatives d’accès à grande échelle telles que « Mission 300 », menées par la Banque mondiale et la BAD, contribuent à intensifier les efforts d’électrification, ayant déjà permis de raccorder plus de 50 millions de personnes à travers le continent.

« Pour que l’Afrique parvienne à mettre fin à la pauvreté énergétique, toutes les ressources disponibles devront être mobilisées conjointement. Le gaz naturel, les énergies renouvelables, l’hydroélectricité et les actifs énergétiques existants, notamment le charbon et le pétrole, ont chacun un rôle à jouer pour fournir une électricité fiable, soutenir l’industrialisation et améliorer la qualité de vie sur l’ensemble du continent », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’African Energy Chamber.

La conférence « Power Africa Today », organisée dans le cadre de l’AEW 2026, offrira une plateforme dédiée pour traduire ces investissements, ces réformes et ces partenariats en projets bancables, afin d’accélérer l’accès à l’énergie et de soutenir une croissance économique durable sur l’ensemble du continent.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

Media files

Posted on

LEDA, ZimTrade sign agreement to boost trade

Source: Government of South Africa

LEDA, ZimTrade sign agreement to boost trade

The Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA) and Zimbabwe’s national trade development and promotion organisation, ZimTrade, have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening trade relations and creating new business opportunities between Limpopo and Zimbabwe.

The agreement was signed following the endorsement of Limpopo MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Dr Tshitereke Matibe.

The partnership seeks to facilitate and promote trade between the two regions, enabling businesses on both sides of the border to benefit from increased economic cooperation.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, ZimTrade Chief Executive Officer Allan Majuru welcomed the agreement, describing it as an important milestone in strengthening regional economic ties.

The signing follows a series of engagements between the two organisations, including a welcome dinner hosted by LEDA for the ZimTrade delegation at Meropa Casino in Polokwane.

The event served as a platform for both parties to discuss opportunities for collaboration and prepare for the formalisation of the partnership.

The ZimTrade delegation was led by Majuru, who pledged that Zimbabwe would reciprocate the hospitality when a Limpopo delegation visits the neighbouring country in the future.

LEDA Director Alan Baloyi expressed gratitude for the visit by the Zimbabwean delegation and highlighted the importance of the partnership during a vote of thanks delivered at the event.

The MoU is expected to enhance trade promotion initiatives, facilitate market access, encourage investment opportunities and strengthen economic cooperation between businesses in Limpopo and Zimbabwe.

LEDA serves as a special-purpose vehicle for economic development in the province. The agency was formed through the amalgamation of four entities: Trade and Investment Limpopo, the Limpopo Business Support Agency, the Limpopo Agribusiness Development Corporation and the Limpopo Economic Development Enterprise.

The new partnership with ZimTrade is expected to contribute to regional economic growth and deepen cross-border trade relations, further positioning Limpopo and Zimbabwe as key partners in Southern Africa’s economic development agenda. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Janine

3

Posted on

Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) calls for solidarity and increased collaboration following imported Ebola virus disease case in France and strengthens cross-border surveillance

Source: APO


.

A humanitarian health worker who supported the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been diagnosed with Ebola virus disease in France.

Health authorities in France and DRC have informed Africa CDC of this confirmed case, caused by the Bundibugyo-type Ebola virus. The health professional developed symptoms after arriving in France, quickly sought medical care and was diagnosed without delay. The monitoring and notification systems for this type of situation worked.

The health professional had supported the Ebola response in Ituri province from May 19 to June 19. At the end of his mission, he left the DRC in good health and went to France. He then developed mild symptoms and consulted the health services. Laboratory tests confirmed infection with Bundibugyo-type Ebola virus.

The risk of Ebola transmission begins after symptoms appear. The medical professional left the DRC without symptoms and met all applicable travel requirements. The Government of the DRC has put in place enhanced surveillance, health checks on entry and exit from the country, as well as border health measures as part of the Ebola response, including at the main entry and exit points, at airports in affected areas and at major transit hubs.

His Excellency Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, met with the Minister of Health of the DRC, the Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) as well as the European Commissioner for Preparedness, Crisis Management and Equality, Hadja Lahbib. They reviewed the situation, strengthened coordination and aligned ongoing public health actions.

“This case illustrates the importance of strong oversight,” said His Excellency Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC. “The health worker left the Democratic Republic of the Congo without symptoms, and the Government of the DRC has put in place enhanced surveillance, entry and exit controls, and border health measures as part of the Ebola response. The symptoms were identified after his arrival in France, and the diagnosis was made quickly thanks to alert systems and international coordination. I would like to thank this doctor, who served on the front lines in Ituri from May 19 to June 19, alongside the affected communities, with courage and dedication. Health workers are bearing the heaviest weight in this outbreak.

The right response today is based on vigilance, solidarity and increased support for the teams working to end Ebola at the source. Partners around the world must step up and help end this epidemic. »

Africa CDC welcomes the speed of detection, diagnosis and notification by the French health authorities. The transition from early symptoms to laboratory confirmation was possible thanks to rapid action and information sharing among national, regional and international partners. Robust surveillance, early notification and effective international cooperation protect communities.

Investigations are underway to determine the most likely time and circumstances of exposure and to support full contact tracing. Authorities in the DRC and France, together with Africa CDC, WHO, ECDC and other partners, are conducting risk assessments and following up on identified contacts in accordance with established public health protocols.

The overall risk level of the outbreak remains unchanged. This imported case reinforces the need to maintain sustained vigilance, strengthen surveillance, rigorously enforce infection prevention and control measures, and continue to support frontline health workers leading the response.

Africa CDC calls on partners and the international community to continue to support the response and reject measures that lack scientific basis, including unnecessary restrictions on travel and trade. These measures are slowing down the deployment of response teams and the delivery of essential supplies, and weakening the public health response.

Africa CDC reaffirms its full commitment alongside the Governments of the DRC and Uganda to control the outbreak, protect communities, and advance a coordinated continental and global response. Africa CDC will continue to monitor the situation closely and will share new information as soon as it is verified.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Media Contact:
Department of Communication and Public Information  
Communications@africacdc.org 
KolyS@africacdc.org

About Africa CDC:
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is the public health agency of the African Union. As an autonomous institution, Africa CDC supports AU Member States in strengthening health systems, improving disease surveillance, and strengthening preparedness and response to health emergencies. For more information, visit https://AfricaCDC.org and follow Africa CDC on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4af75XC), X (https://apo-opa.co/43RvyyD), Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4wa7naE), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/43XvU6N).

Posted on

Power Africa Today: African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Launches New Power platform and Conference to Drive the Fight Against Energy Poverty

Source: APO

More than 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to electricity, underscoring a stark reality: no single energy source will close the continent’s power gap. Instead, African governments are increasingly pursuing a multi-resource energy strategy – leveraging natural gas, renewables, hydropower and existing thermal assets – to expand access, improve grid reliability, and advance the goal of ending energy poverty by 2030.

These priorities will take center stage at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 through the newly launched Power Africa Today conference. The platform will convene utility executives, policymakers, investors, developers and technology providers to examine how generation expansion, transmission build-out, financing innovation and regional market integration can accelerate electrification and industrial growth across Africa. While discussions will reflect a wide range of ongoing developments across the continent – including renewable energy expansion, gas-to-power projects, grid modernization and cross-border trade – the focus will be on how these efforts can be better aligned into bankable, system-wide solutions that close the energy access gap.

Natural gas continues to play a central role in Africa’s power mix as a flexible, dispatchable fuel that supports industrial growth and complements intermittent renewable generation. At the same time, governments are scaling up utility-scale solar and wind projects alongside decentralized mini-grids and off-grid systems aimed at extending access to remote communities. Emerging technologies such as green hydrogen are also beginning to gain traction, supported by early-stage financing and policy frameworks, including the African Development Bank’s $20 million funding call to de-risk pilot projects.

Alongside generation expansion, power sector reform and infrastructure development are gaining momentum. South Africa’s wholesale electricity market reforms and long-term transmission expansion plans are opening the door to greater private sector participation, while Uganda’s Amari Power Transmission Project – Africa’s first privately financed independent transmission project to reach financial close – signals growing investor appetite for grid infrastructure.

Regional integration is also accelerating, with power pools advancing cross-border electricity trade through harmonized regulatory frameworks. At the same time, large-scale access initiatives such as Mission 300, led by the World Bank and AfDB, are helping to scale electrification efforts, having already connected more than 50 million people across the continent.

“Africa’s pathway to ending energy poverty will require every available resource working together. Natural gas, renewables, hydropower and existing power assets including coal and oil each have a role to play in delivering reliable electricity, supporting industrialization and improving quality of life across the continent,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

The Power Africa Today conference at AEW 2026 will provide a dedicated platform to translate these investments, reforms and partnerships into bankable projects – accelerating energy access and supporting sustainable economic growth across the continent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Media files

.

Posted on

Developing nations face complex climate transition amid need for affordable finance

Source: Government of South Africa

Developing nations face complex climate transition amid need for affordable finance

Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Narend Singh has emphasised that affordable finance to support a just transition and build climate resilience remains a critical enabler for developing countries as they navigate a complex global environment that could reshape mitigation strategies.

Singh was addressing the international community virtually at the Inclusive Forum on Carbon Mitigation Approaches (IFCMA), where he expressed concern about the climate response of developing nations, many of which are facing fiscal constraints due to debt-servicing costs.

“Due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions, fragmentation of international trade and investment flows, and persistent uncertainty, it is recognised that countries may recalibrate climate mitigation strategies to balance an increasingly complex set of policy objectives, including energy security, industrial competitiveness and strategic autonomy,” Singh said.

He said that as governments around the world pursue different approaches in responding to these emerging issues, new international spillovers may arise, with implications for greenhouse gas emissions, carbon leakage, trade and investment patterns, sustainable and inclusive economic growth, incentives to innovate, and technology diffusion.

“The imposition of high trade tariffs and reciprocity measures imposed by some countries invariably has impacts on others, particularly exporting countries, at the domestic level. 

“Entire value chains have been impacted. Many business operations have been disrupted, whilst they are grappling with soaring input costs such as fuel and fertilizers,” the Deputy Minister said.

He added that policies such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) have also affected exports of certain commodities, particularly in developing countries such as South Africa, which are still transitioning to an inclusive, climate-resilient, low-carbon economy.

CBAM is the European Union’s (EU) levy on emissions embedded in imported products, which makes it more expensive for companies to emit greenhouse gases. It intends to encourage cleaner industrial production in non-EU countries.

“In a developing country context, we also need to be cognisant of the need to develop new skills across value chains, recognise funding gaps, mobilise necessary capital investment, and ensure that the supporting infrastructure is equally enabling to grow the economy sustainably and inclusively. 

“Moreover, engagement with affected stakeholders and communities to ensure awareness and buy-in on required policy shifts and to identify capacity building requirements associated with the just transition is of paramount importance. The potential opportunities that can be created through the transition also need to be communicated,” Singh said.

The Deputy Minister said identifying risks and challenges is key to understanding what measures need to be put in place and what opportunities these may create.

He pointed out that South Africa has taken several steps to create an enabling policy environment that will facilitate the transition of the economy in a manner that is low-carbon, inclusive and climate resilient.

South Africa’s Climate Change Act was promulgated in 2024 to guide the country’s just transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy.

“We have consulted with companies, which trigger in excess of 30 000 tonnes of carbon emissions equivalent (CO2 eq.) per annum, in preparing companies for the Carbon Budget Regulations. 

“Companies need to put mitigation plans in place and report on progress on an annual basis. This is a significant intervention in transitioning the industry in reducing emissions,” Singh said.

Furthermore, the national government has been working closely with other spheres of government, particularly local government, to undertake risk and vulnerability assessments and assist municipalities with developing climate change response plans.

“The end goal is to enhance adaptive capacity and build climate resilience. Recently, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, launched the Industrial Development Strategy (IDS) for South Africa,” he said.

The objective of the strategy is to support the decarbonisation of industry through the uptake of cleaner technology and new energy systems, as well as economic diversification through beneficiated value chains and digitalisation.

“Product and market diversification is a long-term goal. By the same token, we must also ensure inclusivity and, in this regard, small businesses need to be part of the solution.

“As South Africa, we remain committed to the targets as set in the 2025 updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), and the implementation of the Climate Change Act of 2024. We look forward to developing and nurturing enabling partnerships both internationally and domestically to support these important processes,” the Deputy Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle

5

Posted on

MEC leads FMD vaccination drive in Ngqushwa Local Municipality

Source: Government of South Africa

MEC leads FMD vaccination drive in Ngqushwa Local Municipality

The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture continues in its efforts to contain the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak that has affected parts of the province since late 2025.

Agriculture MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe is expected to lead an ongoing vaccination drive at the Woodlands Dip Tank in Ngqushwa Local Municipality on Thursday as part of the province’s response to the disease.

The outbreak was first confirmed on 23 December 2025 at Bumbane Village in Keiskamahoek, within the Amahlathi Local Municipality, prompting authorities to implement a range of containment measures aimed at protecting the livestock sector.

During her visit, Kontsiwe will assess progress made in controlling the disease and engage with farmers, veterinary professionals and industry stakeholders involved in the response effort.

The visit is also intended to strengthen support for livestock farmers and recognise the work being carried out by veterinary teams on the ground.

The provincial government’s intervention earlier this year provided a major boost to the response programme.

In February, R55 million was allocated towards combating the outbreak, enabling the department to place an order for approximately 1.05 million vaccine doses.

The MEC is expected to announce the significance of the latest vaccination milestone and provide an update on procurement processes linked to the funding received from the provincial treasury.

The vaccination campaign forms part of broader efforts to curb the spread of the highly contagious livestock disease, which poses a serious threat to animal health, agricultural production and market access.

Provincial authorities have reiterated their commitment to working closely with farmers and industry stakeholders to ensure that containment measures remain effective and that livestock farming communities receive the support needed to recover from the outbreak. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Janine

5

Posted on

Power Africa Today: African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 lança nova plataforma e conferência sobre energia para impulsionar a luta contra a pobreza energética

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Mais de 600 milhões de pessoas na África Subsariana continuam sem acesso à eletricidade, o que sublinha uma realidade gritante: nenhuma fonte de energia, por si só, irá colmatar o défice energético do continente. Em vez disso, os governos africanos estão cada vez mais a adotar uma estratégia energética multirrecursos — tirando partido do gás natural, das energias renováveis, da energia hidroelétrica e dos ativos térmicos existentes — para alargar o acesso, melhorar a fiabilidade da rede e avançar com o objetivo de acabar com a pobreza energética até 2030.

Estas prioridades assumirão um papel central na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, através da conferência «Power Africa Today», recentemente lançada. A plataforma reunirá executivos de empresas de serviços públicos, decisores políticos, investidores, promotores e fornecedores de tecnologia para analisar de que forma a expansão da produção, o desenvolvimento da rede de transporte, a inovação no financiamento e a integração dos mercados regionais podem acelerar a eletrificação e o crescimento industrial em toda a África. Embora os debates reflitam um vasto leque de desenvolvimentos em curso em todo o continente — incluindo a expansão das energias renováveis, projetos de conversão de gás em eletricidade, modernização da rede e comércio transfronteiriço —, o foco incidirá sobre a forma como estes esforços podem ser melhor alinhados em soluções viáveis e abrangentes a nível do sistema, que colmatem a lacuna no acesso à energia.

O gás natural continua a desempenhar um papel central no mix energético de África, enquanto combustível flexível e despachável que apoia o crescimento industrial e complementa a produção intermitente de energias renováveis. Ao mesmo tempo, os governos estão a ampliar projetos de energia solar e eólica à escala das empresas de serviços públicos, a par de minirredes descentralizadas e sistemas fora da rede, com o objetivo de alargar o acesso a comunidades remotas. Tecnologias emergentes, como o hidrogénio verde, também começam a ganhar impulso, apoiadas por financiamento em fase inicial e por quadros políticos, incluindo o apelo de financiamento de 20 milhões de dólares do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento para reduzir os riscos dos projetos-piloto.

A par da expansão da produção, a reforma do setor energético e o desenvolvimento de infraestruturas estão a ganhar impulso. As reformas do mercado grossista de eletricidade da África do Sul e os planos de expansão da transmissão a longo prazo estão a abrir caminho a uma maior participação do setor privado, enquanto o Projeto de Transmissão Amari, no Uganda — o primeiro projeto de transmissão independente financiado pelo setor privado em África a concluir o fecho financeiro —, sinaliza um crescente interesse dos investidores nas infraestruturas da rede.

A integração regional também está a acelerar, com os consórcios de energia a promoverem o comércio transfronteiriço de eletricidade através de quadros regulamentares harmonizados. Ao mesmo tempo, iniciativas de acesso em grande escala, como a «Mission 300», liderada pelo Banco Mundial e pelo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), estão a ajudar a ampliar os esforços de eletrificação, tendo já ligado mais de 50 milhões de pessoas em todo o continente.

«O caminho de África para acabar com a pobreza energética exigirá que todos os recursos disponíveis trabalhem em conjunto. O gás natural, as energias renováveis, a energia hidroelétrica e os ativos energéticos existentes, incluindo o carvão e o petróleo, têm, cada um, um papel a desempenhar no fornecimento de eletricidade fiável, no apoio à industrialização e na melhoria da qualidade de vida em todo o continente», afirma NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia.

A conferência «Power Africa Today», a realizar-se no âmbito da AEW 2026, proporcionará uma plataforma dedicada para transformar estes investimentos, reformas e parcerias em projetos financiáveis — acelerando o acesso à energia e apoiando o crescimento económico sustentável em todo o continente.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

Media files

Baixar .tipo

Posted on

The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) Signs 13 Landmark Agreements to Promote Private Sector Growth in its Member Countries

Source: APO

The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) (www.ICD-PS.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, is pleased to announce the signing of 13 significant financing and strategic cooperation agreements with various counterparts aimed at catalyzing economic development and bolstering private sector growth and initiatives across several member countries in diverse regions around the world. These agreements were signed during the 2026 Annual Meetings of the IsDB Group, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, under the theme “Regional Integration for Sustainable Prosperity”, which provided a platform for member countries to advance dialogue and cooperation on regional connectivity, resilience and inclusive growth. The signing of these agreements underscores ICD’s unwavering commitment to fostering prosperity through strategic partnerships and promoting access to finance and financial inclusion in its member countries.

In line with its mandate to support private sector growth in its member countries, the ICD and the Azerbaijan Business Development Fund (ABDF) signed a framework agreement to launch a managed Shariah-compliant line of financing program for SMEs during the opening ceremony of the IsDB Group 2026 Annual Meeting’s Private Sector Forum in Baku. Under this framework, the parties are to collaborate in deploying up to AZN 200 million within the next two years. The program introduces a local currency (AZN) financing channel by which, ICD, acting as ABDF’s agent, will blend ABDF’s AZN funds with ICD’s USD, EUR, and AZN resources to support SMEs and private sector growth in Azerbaijan. Through this initiative, the ICD, acting on its own behalf and on behalf of ABDF, will provide either single or multi-currency line of financing facilities to selected partner financial institutions in Azerbaijan for on-ward financing of eligible companies in the country. This arrangement is expected to help mitigate foreign exchange risk that has long hindered the growth of  Azerbaijani SMEs, especially those operating outside major cities in the country.

In a further attempt to explore bankable financing opportunities in Azerbaijan and facilitate the realization of its mandate of supporting private sector development in its member countries, the ICD also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR), establishing strategic cooperation between the two institutions to collaborate in financing  of infrastructure and energy projects in Azerbaijan and other member countries within existing public private partnership (PPP) frameworks. Under the Memorandum of Understanding, the parties will identify and evaluate financing opportunities for project companies established by SOCAR and its joint venture partners. Within this framework, ICD will provide financing solutions tailored to the specific requirements of the projects.

Further, the ICD signed a Mandate Letter with Azerconnect for a USD 20 Million financing facility for capex financing and an Expression of Intent Letter for a USD 15 Million Line of Financing Facility with Turan Bank for onward financing of SMEs and eligible companies in Azerbaijan.

In an effort to strengthen and deepen its operations in Nigeria, the ICD also signed a Mandate Letter with the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) for a USD 50 Million syndicated line of financing facility to be arranged by ICD to be used by NEXIM for financing eligible private sector entities in Nigeria.

In line with its mandate of promoting economic development in its member countries, the ICD also signed an Expression of Intent  Letter for a proposed EUR 50 million Line of Financing Facility with  Afriland Bank (Cameroon),  and a Final Term Sheet for Euro 20 Million line of finance facility with AFG Bank (Cameroon), each for the purpose of onward financing of SMEs and other eligible private sector companies in Cameroon. Under these facilities,  the ICD will be leading and supporting the arrangement and mobilization of resources and private capital to support the operations of these Cameroonian banks and thus contributing to fostering economic growth and prosperity in the country.

Consistent with its objective of having a diversified portfolio across its member countries, the ICD also signed a Murabaha Facility Agreement with Al Salam Bank of Bahrain (ASB) for a USD 50 million Line of Finance Facility for the purpose of  onward financing of eligible companies in Bahrain whose operations contribute or have the potential of contributing significantly to the  growth and development of SMEs and the private sector in general in Bahrain.

ICD has also signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding  with DAMU Entrepreneurship Development Fund of Kazakhstan to establish framework for cooperation aimed at identifying and developing financing and guarantee opportunities for Lines of financing in Kazakhstan, with a focus on supporting SMEs and private‑sector entities.

To further its support to the growth of the private sector in Kazakhstan, the ICD also signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with KAZAGROFINANCE JSC of Kazakhstan (KAF) to establish a common ground for partnership between the parties and the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan to extend thematic agri-sector linked line of finance facilities  to KAF under the Ministry’s subsidy program to farmers in Kazakhstan.

Additionally, Leveraging on ICD’s recent and first successful credit enhancement transaction with the African Solidarity Fund (FSA) in Mauritania in partnership with Banque Mauritanienne de l’Investissement (BMI),  the ICD signed a strategic Expression of Intent Letter with FSA as a demonstration of their intent to upscale their partnership in the use of FSA’s guarantees as credit enhancement for ICD’s line of financing operations in selected common member countries of the Parties.

Finally, the ICD also signed a Strategic MOU with the Texel Group of UK to establish a platform of cooperation on credit portfolio enhancement through insurance. Through this MOU the parties are aiming to combine ICD’s origination and development financing capabilities with Texel Group’s structuring and placement expertise in the use of Non Payment Insurance to enhance risk management, optimize capital allocation, and mobilize additional financing into priority sectors, while enabling ICD to upscale its financing activities and efficiently manage portfolio concentration and credit exposure in its member countries.

All these signed agreements represent a major step forward in ICD’s efforts to promote sustainable economic growth and financial inclusion across its member countries. By strengthening partnerships with key financial institutions and development partners, ICD continues to play a vital role in supporting private sector growth and development in its member countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD).

About the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD):
The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector is a multilateral development financial institution and a member of the Islamic Development Bank Group. Established in November 1999, ICD supports economic development in its member countries by promoting the establishment, expansion and modernization of private enterprises, through financing and cross boarder investments in private sector enterprises and projects. ICD is rated A+ by Fitch, A2 by Moody’s, and A- by S&P.

For more information, visit www.ICD-PS.org.

Media files

.