Category: MIL-OSI

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Travel between African countries is still hard: fresh ideas to get movement flowing

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Alan Hirsch, Senior Research Fellow New South Institute, Emeritus Professor at The Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance, University of Cape Town

It remains too difficult for Africans to travel between African countries. Africa-wide reforms have failed. The keynote continental agreement, the African Union’s Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, adopted in 2018, still has only four country ratifications from 55 members.

A new report of the African Union bemoans the low (though slightly improved) level of human integration in Africa. It describes the main challenges as legal fragmentation, weak institutional frameworks, security concerns, and limited mutual recognition of documents and qualifications.

Nevertheless, some consolation can be drawn from the fact that African migration governance systems have been moving in the right direction.

We are migration researchers and, as we show in our recent report, there has been some progress. This is evident in improving scores in the annual African Visa Openness Index, which is published by the African Development Bank.

The visa openness index shows that for 28% of country‑to-country travel scenarios within Africa, African citizens do not need a visa to cross the border. This is an improvement from 20% in 2016.

But the pace of change is slow. Given this, and the fact that progress has been driven at bilateral and regional levels, is there still a role for continental initiatives?

Based on our research over the last decade, we argue that incremental reforms at all levels – unilateral, bilateral, regional and continental – can combine to move Africa forward towards free regular movement.

We recognise that the implementation of the African Union Protocol on Free Movement of Persons is still some way off. But there are opportunities to support its aims and intentions through incremental initiatives and reforms. This could include pilot programmes run under the auspices of the African Union and regional bodies that provide for categories of people to travel freely. These categories could include, for example, traders at borders or those with professional skills.

What’s standing in the way

There are many reasons a continental process to reform and align migration governance shouldn’t work.

Firstly, the African Union has an extraordinary number of members (55). The European Union has 27. The large number of countries makes any wholesale continental institutional intervention difficult.

Secondly, there are huge levels of inequality both within and between African countries. The richest country in Africa has an income per person on average – taking costs into account – around 53 times higher than the poorest. Large income differences between countries, sometimes coinciding with better judicial systems and social services, make it likely that, whatever the reality, vulnerable residents in the richer country are likely to fear an uncontrolled influx.

Thirdly, the level of institutional development varies hugely between countries. Population registration is very weak in many African countries. Unicef estimated that in 2022, more than half of the unregistered children in the world were African. The Lancet medical journal estimated that in 2021 only one in three deaths in Africa were registered. Systems for issuing identification documents and passports are imperfect. Confidence in other countries keeping good records of citizens and monitoring criminal and terrorist activity are key ingredients of a good migration partnership.

But Africans cannot afford to allow these and other obstacles to diminish the effort towards a fully integrated continent.

In a world of large, competing power blocs, Africa’s fragmentation puts it at a huge disadvantage. In any case, compared with much of the rest of the world, at least Africa is moving in the right direction. It is mostly opening borders, rather than closing them.

The efforts so far

African initiatives to facilitate easier border crossings have a long history.

In 1991, the Abuja Treaty committed Organisation of African Union member states to

establish a common market and gradually remove obstacles to the free movement of persons, goods, services, and capital and the right of residence and establishment.

The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights guarantees the right to free movement of persons. The Migration Policy Framework for Africa and Plan of Action (2018–2030) is a detailed plan for implementing the Free Movement of Persons Protocol.

The 2018 protocol itself explained why freer movement would be beneficial for Africa’s social and economic development. It set up a programme of three phases, from visa-free visits to (eventually) rights to settle, work and start a business.

We noted some evidence that citizens of African countries are often more open to freer movement than their governments are.

Unlike the Free Movement of Persons Protocol, the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) has been widely ratified and is in the process of implementation. It provides for specific categories of travellers to be allowed free movement in the course of service delivery.

The free movement protocol is, in practice, driven by a few busy staffers in the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, with some kind external assistance. The AfCFTA is driven by a relatively large, dedicated secretariat with wide support within and beyond Africa.

A more practical way forward

One of the conclusions we have drawn from our research is that a varied approach might work better.

For example, migration expert Amanda Bisong has pointed out that the AfCFTA services protocol makes provision for the visa-free movement of certain categories of professional and business persons. If implemented, this would be a significant continental step towards broader reforms.

We noted previously that such “neo-liberal” or “elitist” reforms could pave the way to broader multilateral reforms, as was the case in South America. The term “neo-liberal migration reform” was coined in South America to refer to visa-free travel for elites, but not for lower-skilled people.

Secondly, informal cross-border traders could be included into the ambit of formality within a specific agreement. Or as an extension of the services protocol of the free trade agreement.

Thirdly, such initiatives could be initiated as pilot programmes under the auspices of the AU and some regional blocs. Their purpose would be to support the free trade agreement services protocol commitment and to formalise informal traders.

Such pilot programmes could include:

  • the implementation of regional agreements on mutual recognition of skills

  • special economic zones with freer movement provisions, or

  • harmonised visa policies for specific categories of persons.

If successful, these models could be scaled up to encourage broader adoption of the AU Free Movement of Persons Protocol.

Countries with weaker institutional capacities should not be left behind in integrating mobility into the implementation of the free trade agreement. Capacity-building programmes, including financial and technical assistance, should be provided to states that struggle with border management, migration governance or digital infrastructure.

We also noted that continental and regional forums to exchange views and experiences in migration policy and practice are important. We recommend more frequent and more focused forums to monitor the implementation of migration reform policies and discuss the systematic deepening of reforms.

– Travel between African countries is still hard: fresh ideas to get movement flowing
– https://theconversation.com/travel-between-african-countries-is-still-hard-fresh-ideas-to-get-movement-flowing-266837

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La Zambie affirme son soutien ferme à la vision du président de la Banque africaine de développement, Sidi Ould Tah, pour une nouvelle architecture financière africaine

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le président zambien Hakainde Hichilema, a exprimé, jeudi 9 octobre 2025, à Lusaka, son soutien ferme à la vision du président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org), Sidi Ould Tah, pour une nouvelle architecture financière africaine qui renforce la souveraineté économique du continent.

Ce soutien a été exprimé par M. Hichilema qui a reçu à la State House de Lusaka -le palais présidentiel- M. Ould Tah après la troisième réunion du17e cycle de reconstitution des ressources du Fonds africain de développement (FAD-17) organisée avec succès par la Zambie.

Les deux dirigeants ont souligné le partenariat solide entre le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement et la Zambie, ainsi que le leadership croissant du pays dans les efforts de transformation économique et de souveraineté financière de l’Afrique.

M. Ould Tah a remercié le président Hichilema et le peuple zambien d’avoir accueilli la réunion de reconstitution des ressources du FAD-17, une étape cruciale dans la mobilisation de ressources concessionnelles pour les pays africains à faible revenu. Il a également salué l’engagement de la Zambie d’apporter une contribution de cinq millions de dollars américains au FAD-17.

« La générosité, le leadership et le partenariat de la Zambie sont une source d’inspiration pour nous tous, a déclaré M. Ould Tah. La trajectoire de développement de votre pays incarne ce que le Fonds africain de développement cherche à réaliser : la résilience, l’inclusion et l’autodétermination. »

Le président Hichilema a souligné la nécessité pour l’Afrique de réduire sa dépendance à l’égard des financements extérieurs et de remédier aux déséquilibres structurels qui imposent des coûts d’emprunt élevés aux économies africaines. Les évaluations de crédit mondiales, a-t-il noté, sous-évaluent souvent les actifs et le potentiel de l’Afrique, ce qui se traduit par un coût du capital qui reste élevé.

Comptant parmi les champions de la réforme de l’architecture financière mondiale au sein de l’Union africaine, plaidant vigoureusement en faveur du renforcement de l’architecture financière de l’Afrique et de la consolidation de la position du continent dans l’architecture financière mondiale, M. Hichilema a salué l’engagement de M. Ould Tah en faveur d’une plus grande cohérence et d’une plus grande harmonisation entre les institutions financières africaines. Cela inclut les banques multilatérales de développement et les fonds régionaux, afin d’intensifier la mobilisation des ressources nationales et les solutions de financement mixte.

Accès à l’énergie et transformation économique

Les deux dirigeants ont également examiné les progrès réalisés dans le cadre de la Mission 300, une initiative conjointe du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement et DU Groupe de la Banque mondiale visant à élargir l’accès à l’électricité à 300 millions d’Africains supplémentaires d’ici 2030.

Le président Hichilema a souligné que la Zambie avait été l’un des premiers pays à signer un pacte national pour l’énergie dans le cadre de la Mission 300 lors du Sommet africain de l’énergie qui s’est tenu à Dar es Salam, en Tanzanie, en janvier 2025. Dans le cadre de ce pacte, la Zambie veut atteindre l’accès universel à l’électricité d’ici 2030, à porter à 33 % la part des énergies renouvelables non hydroélectriques et à mobiliser 11,9 milliards de dollars d’investissements, dont 82 % proviendront du secteur privé.

« L’accès à l’énergie est l’élément vital de l’industrialisation, a déclaré le président Hichilema. La Zambie est prête à travailler avec le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement pour étendre ce modèle de compact à l’industrie manufacturière et aux chaînes de valeur régionales. »

Les deux dirigeants ont également convenu de l’importance stratégique de développer des corridors de transport et de commerce, qui constituent l’épine dorsale de l’intégration économique et de la croissance industrielle de l’Afrique.

« En travaillant ensemble, nous pouvons transformer les corridors de transport en corridors de prospérité, a déclaré M. Ould Tah. Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement restera un partenaire indéfectible dans la construction des infrastructures qui relient les marchés, créent des emplois et propulsent l’intégration de l’Afrique. »

Le président Hichilema a présenté le plan de la Zambie visant à se transformer en plaque tournante terrestre grâce à des investissements dans les corridors de transport nord-sud et Lobito, tous deux soutenus par le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement.

Un partenariat pour le développement durable

M. Ould Tah a salué les progrès réalisés par la Zambie dans le rétablissement de la stabilité macroéconomique et de la confiance des investisseurs sous la direction du président Hichilema, avec une croissance du PIB qui devrait atteindre 6,2 % en 2025, tirée par des gains dans les secteurs de l’énergie, de l’agriculture et de la production record de cuivre.

Il a noté que la dynamique de réforme de la Zambie et l’amélioration de la viabilité de la dette créent un nouvel espace pour la croissance et l’investissement, positionnant le pays comme un modèle de discipline budgétaire et de résilience.

Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement s’est engagé à soutenir la transformation structurelle de la Zambie à travers son Document de stratégie pays 2024-2029, qui met l’accent sur l’énergie, l’agriculture, les transports, les compétences et le développement du secteur privé.

Le soutien cumulé du Fonds africain de développement à la Zambie a dépassé 900 millions de dollars, ce qui a permis de financer des projets transformateurs, tels que le pont de Kazungula, le corridor routier de Nacala, le Projet des infrastructures d’élevage et le Projet d’éducation scientifique et technologique, qui a renforcé les capacités STIM (sciences, technologie, ingénierie, mathématiques) dans les universités et les institutions techniques à l’échelle nationale.

La réunion s’est conclue par un engagement commun à approfondir la collaboration entre la Zambie et le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement pour faire progresser la souveraineté, l’intégration, l’industrialisation et le capital humain de l’Afrique, les Quatre points cardinaux de la vision stratégique de M. Ould Tah.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Images supplémentaires : https://apo-opa.co/4n2frVV

Contact médias :
Emeka Anuforo
Département de la communication et des médias
media@afdb.org

Media files

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President Ramkalawan Receives President-Elect Dr Patrick Herminie at State House

Source: APO – Report:

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The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan, today received the President-elect, Dr Patrick Herminie, for a tête-à-tête at State House, following the conclusion of the 2025 Presidential Elections.

Dr Herminie was accompanied by the Vice-President-elect, Mr Sebastian Pillay.

During their cordial discussions, President Ramkalawan and President-elect Herminie exchanged views on key matters relating to the inauguration of the new President of the Republic, the official opening of the National Assembly, the office of the Former President, national security, economic stability, and the importance of ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition of power.

President Ramkalawan reaffirmed his full commitment to facilitating an orderly and dignified handover process in the best interest of the Seychellois people.

Both leaders reaffirmed their shared dedication to safeguarding unity, peace, and stability in Seychelles, and underscored the importance of maintaining a strong democratic tradition as the nation moves into its next chapter.

In the spirit of cooperation and continuity, the Vice-President-elect, Mr Sebastian Pillay, also had the opportunity to meet with Vice-President Ahmed Afif for discussions on matters pertaining to the transition and other issues of national importance.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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South Sudan: United Nation (UN) Commission urges African Union (AU) and United Nation (UN) Security Council to act decisively as crisis deepens, demanding urgent action and renewed commitment to peace, accountability and a credible transition

Source: APO – Report:

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South Sudan’s escalating political crisis is driving renewed armed violence, compounding already dire human rights and humanitarian conditions, while heightening regional instability, the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan warned today.

Despite one decade of efforts by the African Union and regional actors to support the peace process, South Sudan’s leaders have deliberately stalled progress and brought South Sudan to yet another precipice. Armed clashes are occurring on a scale not seen since a cessation of hostilities was signed in 2017, with civilians bearing the brunt of human rights violations and displacements.

Concluding its mission to the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, the Commission underscored that South Sudan’s justice and accountability vacuum continues to fuel political intransigence, impunity, conflict and corruption. The latest political fracture at the centre has emboldened armed groups, triggered renewed conflicts, and displaced thousands. As highlighted in the Commission’s recent report — Plundering a Nation: How rampant corruption unleashed a human rights crisis in South Sudan — grand corruption and systematic diversion of public resources remain a key driver of conflict, depriving South Sudanese of their most basic rights.

“The ongoing political crisis, increasing fighting, and unchecked, systemic corruption are all symptoms of the failure of leadership and consensus in implementing the commitments of the peace agreement and political transition,” said Commissioner Barney Afako, who led the Mission to the AU. “Unless there is immediate, sustained and coordinated political engagement by the region, South Sudan risks sliding back into full-scale conflict with unimaginable human rights consequences for its people and the wider region. South Sudanese are looking to the African Union and the region to rescue them from a preventable fate.”

The Commission also engaged African Union officials, emphasizing the need for urgency in establishing the transitional justice mechanisms reaffirmed in Chapter V of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, notably the Hybrid Court. More than a decade after the conflict broke out in December 2013, South Sudanese victims still await credible justice measures and reparations for the serious violations and crimes they have endured. Despite repeated calls by the AU Peace and Security Council in March and June 2025, for the Government of South Sudan to work with the AU on developing guidelines and modalities for the establishment of the Hybrid Court, no tangible progress has been made.

“More than ever, justice is essential for South Sudan,” said Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission. “The promises made to victims years ago remain unmet. The Hybrid Court must move from paper to concrete action — the African Union has the mandate and the moral responsibility to ensure holistic transitional justice for South Sudan in line with its Transitional Justice Policy. A Hybrid Court that delivers accountability for past crimes — while at the same time strengthening South Sudan’s own justice institutions based on complementarity— can leave a transformative legacy, strengthening cohesion, the rule of law and human rights in the country.”

Renewed armed clashes have forced thousands of South Sudanese to flee once more. In 2025 alone, an estimated 300,000 South Sudanese fled the country, largely due to the increasing conflict: with 148,000 new arrivals into Sudan; 50,000 to Ethiopia; 50,000 to Uganda; 30,000 to the Democratic Republic of Congo; and 25,000 to Kenya. Their protection and survival continue to fall upon the region, which now hosts more than 2.5 million South Sudanese refugees.

South Sudan is also grappling with an internally displaced population of 2 million, while hosting an additional 560,000 refugees fleeing from the war in Sudan. Women remain disproportionately affected, bearing the greatest burdens and risks of forcible displacement.

“The mounting armed clashes, mass displacement and fracturing of a peace agreement signed seven years ago demonstrate that South Sudan cannot rebuild without stability and justice,” said Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández. “Credible and independent mechanisms for justice and accountability are needed to deter the repeated cycles of atrocities, break cycles of impunity and heal the wounds of war. The AU and regional partners must act now — not only to prevent another war, but to build the foundations of a just peace, based on the rule of law.”

In Addis Ababa, the Commission consulted with the AU Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan (C5 group), members of the AU Peace and Security Council, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, diplomats, UN, IGAD, and senior AU officials, including from the Office of the Legal Counsel. The Commission stressed the need for intensified regional efforts to de-escalate and address political tensions and surging armed contestation in South Sudan and called for sustained progress to advance a holistic transitional justice agenda. It urged the Office of the Legal Counsel to expedite the development of broad guidelines for the establishment of the Hybrid Court to complement ongoing processes to set up the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority.

With members of the African Union Peace and Security Council and the United Nations Security Council set to meet in Addis Ababa later this week for their annual joint seminar and consultative session, the Commission urged both Councils to take decisive and coordinated action to address South Sudan’s escalating crisis. The Commission called on them to place justice and accountability — including the prompt establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan — at the centre of their deliberations, recognising that impunity and corruption remain the principal obstacles to peace, stability and human rights in South Sudan.

The Commission underlined that only an inclusive and credible political transition, supported by the AU, IGAD, the United Nations, and guarantors of the peace agreement, working in tandem with the international community, can prevent further deterioration and violations. It urged sustained and focused diplomatic engagement to ensure that all actors, including armed and political groups currently outside the peace framework, are brought into a consensus-based process committed to peace and human rights.

“The crisis unfolding in South Sudan is the result of deliberate choices made by its leaders to put their interests above those of their people”, said Commissioner Sooka. “The region and the international community must now prevail upon South Sudan’s leaders to make a different choice — one that puts their people first.”

– on behalf of United Nations: Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

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Zambia Affirms Strong Support for African Development Bank (AfDB) President Ould Tah’s vision for New African Financial Architecture

Source: APO – Report:

Zambia has voiced strong backing for African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) President Dr Sidi Ould Tah’s push for a new African financial architecture that strengthens the continent’s economic sovereignty.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema expressed this support during discussions with Dr Ould Tah at State House in Lusaka on 9 October 2025, following Zambia’s successful hosting of a third meeting for the 17th replenishment cycle of the African Development Fund (ADF-17).

The talks underscored the strong partnership between the African Development Bank and Zambia, as well as the country’s growing leadership in Africa’s drive for economic transformation and financial sovereignty.

Dr Ould Tah thanked President Hichilema and the Zambian people for hosting the ADF-17 replenishment meeting, a key milestone in mobilising concessional resources for Africa’s most vulnerable countries. He also commended Zambia for a pledge of $5 million to ADF-17.

“Zambia’s generosity, leadership, and partnership inspire us all,” said Dr Ould Tah. “Your country’s development trajectory embodies what the ADF seeks to achieve: resilience, inclusion, and self-determination.”

President Hichilema emphasised the need for Africa to reduce its dependence on external financing and to address structural imbalances that impose high borrowing costs on African economies. Global credit assessments, he noted, often undervalue African assets and potential, resulting in a persistently high cost of capital.

As one of the African Union’s Champions of Global Financial Architecture Reform, which advocates strengthening Africa’s financial architecture and putting Africa in a stronger position in the global financial system, President Hichilema welcomed Dr Ould Tah’s commitment to greater coherence and harmonisation among Africa’s financial institutions. This includes multilateral development of banks and regional funds, to scale up domestic resource mobilisation and blended finance solutions.

Energy Access and Economic Transformation

The two leaders also reviewed progress under Mission 300, a joint African Development Bank Group-World Bank initiative working to extend electricity to an additional 300 million Africans by 2030.

President Hichilema highlighted that Zambia had been among the first countries to sign a Mission 300 National Energy Compact during the Africa Energy Summit held in Dar es Salaam in January 2025. Under the compact, Zambia aims to achieve universal electricity access by 2030, raise the share of non-hydro renewables to 33 percent and mobilise $11.9 billion in investment, 82 percent of this coming from the private sector.

“Energy access is the lifeblood of industrialisation,” President Hichilema said. “Zambia stands ready to work with the African Development Bank Group to expand this compact model into manufacturing and regional value chains.”

The leaders also agreed on the strategic importance of developing transport and trade corridors as the backbone of Africa’s economic integration and industrial growth.

“By working together, we can turn transport corridors into corridors of prosperity,” said Dr Ould Tah. “The African Development Bank Group will remain a steadfast partner in building the infrastructure that connects markets, creates jobs, and powers Africa’s integration.”

President Hichilema outlined Zambia’s plan to transform itself into a land-linked hub through investments in the North–South and Lobito transport corridors, both supported by the African Development Bank Group.

A Partnership for Sustainable Development

Dr Ould Tah commended Zambia’s progress in restoring macroeconomic stability and investor confidence under President Hichilema’s leadership, with GDP growth projected to reach 6.2% in 2025, driven by gains in energy, agriculture and record copper production.

He noted that Zambia’s reform momentum and improved debt sustainability are creating renewed space for growth and investment, positioning the country as a model of fiscal discipline and resilience.

The African Development Bank Group has committed to supporting Zambia’s structural transformation through its 2024-2029 Country Strategy Paper, which focuses on energy, agriculture, transport, skills, and private-sector development.

Cumulative ADF support to Zambia exceeds $900 million, financing transformative projects such as the Kazungula Bridge, the Nacala Road Corridor, the Livestock Infrastructure Project, and the Science and Technology Education Project, which has strengthened STEM capacity in universities and technical institutions nationwide.

The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to deepen collaboration between Zambia and the African Development Bank Group to advance Africa’s sovereignty, integration, industrialisation, and human capital — the four cardinal points of Dr Ould Tah’s strategic vision.

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Additional images: https://apo-opa.co/4n2frVV

Media contact:
Emeka Anuforo
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org

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SA, Ireland strengthen cooperation in education and innovation

Source: Government of South Africa

Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has described his recent visit to Ireland as an important step in aligning the education and innovation ecosystems of South Africa and Ireland toward shared global development goals.

Manamela returned to South Africa following an official visit to Ireland last Wednesday, as part of the delegation accompanying President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The official visit consolidated the long-standing and strong relationship between South Africa and Ireland, particularly in science and innovation, higher education and skills development, and trade and investment.
On the eve of the official visit, Manamela and International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola, visited Dogpatch Labs, one of Ireland’s leading innovation and start-up hubs.

The visit highlighted the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa, a partnership initiative driven by the Embassy of Ireland that identifies and supports high-potential South African tech entrepreneurs whose work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“This initiative demonstrates how collaboration in technology and innovation can empower young African innovators and advance our shared commitment to inclusive development,” Manamela said.

Manamela also held a bilateral meeting with Ireland’s Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Niall Lawless, focusing on expanding cooperation in:
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) teaching and research,
• Lecturer development and exchange programmes,
• Joint academic initiatives on Ireland’s role during the anti-apartheid movement, and
• The development of a Memorandum of Intent to formalise cooperation in higher education, innovation, and research.

The two Ministers also discussed Ireland’s participation in the upcoming G20 Education Working Group, which South Africa will host in Mpumalanga next week.
As part of the broader engagement with the President’s business roundtable, Manamela explored opportunities for Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) and skills-to-work transition programmes with Irish companies based in South Africa, particularly in manufacturing, agro-processing, and high-technology sectors.

Academic collaboration 

The Minister also met with a group of over 20 academics and researchers at Trinity College Dublin, where Professor Kader Asmal once taught law before returning to South Africa to serve as Minister of Education.

Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Trinity College and South African universities, including the University of Johannesburg, Wits University, the University of the Western Cape, and Sefako Makgatho University, in fields such as immunology, creative arts, economics, and history.

Both sides agreed to build on existing collaborations and design joint research and postgraduate supervision programmes that reflect the enduring intellectual and moral ties between the two nations.

The visit also included discussions on expanding the Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme, which has supported over 130 South African graduates to pursue postgraduate studies in Ireland since its establishment in 2013.

“This partnership goes beyond symbolism. It embodies the spirit of solidarity that Ireland extended during the anti-apartheid struggle, now renewed through shared investment in science, technology, and education.

“We are building a bridge between our histories of solidarity and our futures of shared innovation. The work ahead, through the proposed Memorandum of Intent will deepen cooperation in science, technology, innovation, and human development for the mutual benefit of both our nations,” Manamela said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Salon international de la moquette et des revêtements de sol (ICFE) 2026 s’étend avec un rayonnement mondial et une croissance record à Istanbul

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Désormais dans sa troisième édition, le Salon international de la moquette et des revêtements de sol (ICFE) (https://apo-opa.co/4qmxfOy) — anciennement connu sous le nom de CFE, s’est rapidement imposé comme l’un des points de rencontre les plus importants du secteur dans le monde. Organisé par Tüyap Exhibitions Group (https://Tuyap.com.tr/) en collaboration avec l’Association des exportateurs de tapis d’Istanbul (İHİB) et l’Association des exportateurs de tapis d’Anatolie du Sud-Est (GAHİB), le salon a pris une véritable dimension internationale, attirant acheteurs, fabricants et décideurs des six continents.

Même à une époque où les vents du commerce électronique balaient tous les recoins du négoce, le réseautage en face-à-face reste le lieu où se nouent les connexions durables qui font aboutir les accords. Pour l’industrie de la moquette et des revêtements de sol, aucun événement n’incarne mieux cette réalité que l’ICFE, qui se tiendra au Centre d’exposition d’Istanbul du 6 au 9 janvier 2026.

Un nouveau hall ajouté

La trajectoire de croissance est remarquable. Répondant à une forte demande, l’ICFE s’est étendu à un 11e hall pour 2026. Tous les halls sont déjà complets, avec des marques de renommée mondiale qui ont sécurisé leur place dès le début, témoignant du rôle du Salon en tant que hub central pour l’industrie.

L’influence mondiale de l’ICFE est alimentée par une stratégie marketing complète qui couvre plus de 80 pays. Grâce aux médias numériques, aux campagnes ciblées et aux systèmes de matchmaking B2B internationaux, le Salon connecte exposants et visiteurs de manière directe et efficace. Ce rayonnement mondial non seulement différencie l’ICFE des autres événements du secteur, mais garantit également que chaque édition crée de nouvelles opportunités commerciales et de partenariat.

Plus de 50 000 participants attendus

Pour l’avenir, l’ICFE 2026 devrait accueillir près de 500 entreprises de 25 pays, notamment la Chine, l’Iran, le Pakistan, l’Inde, l’Afghanistan, l’Ouzbékistan, les États-Unis, l’Égypte, la Jordanie, la Belgique et la France. Environ 50 000 visiteurs professionnels de 105 pays sont attendus, avec une participation particulièrement forte de l’Allemagne, l’Italie, la Chine, l’Inde, l’Iran, la Belgique, les États-Unis, la Russie et le Moyen-Orient. S’appuyant sur l’édition 2025 où 78 % des exposants ont déclaré de nouvelles relations d’affaires, les organisateurs se sont fixé un objectif ambitieux de 85 % pour 2026.

« Notre secteur peut adopter les outils numériques, mais il prospère grâce à la confiance et aux connexions qui naissent des rencontres en personne », a déclaré İlhan Ersözlü de Tüyap Exhibitions Group. « L’expansion de l’ICFE à un 11e hall et la diversité de la participation internationale démontrent à quel point Istanbul est devenue un centre mondial pour les tapis et les revêtements de sol. L’ICFE 2026 sera une plateforme où de nouveaux partenariats se forment et où l’avenir de l’industrie prend forme. »

Distribué par APO Group pour TÜYAP.

Contact :
Burcu Buse Arseven
burcu.arseven@unite.com.tr

À propos de Tüyap :
Fondée en 1979 par Bülent Ünal en tant que première société privée d’organisation de salons en Turquie, Tüyap façonne l’industrie depuis plus de 46 ans. Elle a accueilli plus de 370 000 entreprises et 75 millions de visiteurs à travers des salons spécialisés en Turquie et à l’étranger. Aujourd’hui, Tüyap exploite trois centres de salons en Turquie et maintient des bureaux dans six pays, travaillant avec plus de 100 organisations professionnelles dans le monde. Elle a été pionnière dans l’organisation de salons de produits d’exportation turcs en Chine, en Russie et en Afrique, et continue de soutenir le commerce international avec une moyenne de 10 salons étrangers chaque année. En tant que seul organisateur privé en Turquie possédant son propre centre de salons, Tüyap combine événements physiques et plateformes numériques pour proposer des salons hybrides qui répondent aux besoins d’un marché mondialisé.

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SA launches early warning roadmap

Source: Government of South Africa

SA launches early warning roadmap

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has officially launched South Africa’s Early Warnings for All (EW4All) Roadmap, to enhance the country’s disaster risk reduction efforts.

The launch took place during the Group of 20 (G20) Disaster Risk Reduction Ministerial Meeting, held in Cape Town on Sunday. 

The EW4All initiative is an effort aimed at ensuring that every person in South Africa and across the African continent has access to life-saving early warning systems by 2027.

Addressing the delegates, Hlabisa said the roadmap demonstrates a strong national commitment to enhancing disaster risk reduction and climate resilience by leveraging innovation, technology, and data-driven solutions.

Hlabisa emphasised that this move is not merely a technical achievement, but a symbol of national resolve.

“Through this roadmap, South Africa demonstrates its readiness to innovate by using advanced technologies and data analytics to enable proactive responses to environmental risks and natural disasters.

“It reflects our determination to build a future where early warning systems are seamlessly integrated into disaster management practices, ultimately contributing to a safer and more resilient world for all,” he said.

Reflecting on the G20 Presidency principles of solidarity, equality, and sustainability, the Minister noted that disasters do not respect borders, and collaboration and inclusivity are imperative.

“Solidarity calls for international cooperation and shared knowledge. Equality demands that we confront structural disparities that make some communities more vulnerable than others. Sustainability reminds us that resilience is not only about surviving the next disaster but about safeguarding future generations. No community, urban or rural, formal or informal, should be left behind.”

Hlabisa also acknowledged significant progress under previous G20 Presidencies, including India’s leadership in establishing the G20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group (DRR WG), and Brazil’s current emphasis on climate justice, inclusivity, and equitable financing.

South Africa, he said, will build on this foundation by ensuring that the unique voices and challenges of Africa are effectively represented within the G20 framework.

The Minister believes that South Africa’s own experiences highlight the urgency of early warning systems.

“The floods in KwaZulu-Natal in April 2022, which claimed over 500 lives, and the Eastern Cape floods two months later, which claimed more than 100 lives, are painful reminders of why this initiative matters.

“The launch of the EW4All Roadmap today is our coordinated response to such tragedies, a commitment to achieving universal early warning coverage by 2027,” he said.

Hlabisa also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to fellow G20 Ministers; members of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, led by Chairperson Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo; the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Narend Singh, as well as development partners, knowledge institutions, and delegates from around the world who gathered to witness this milestone.

“Together, we aspire to foster sustainable development and create pathways for shared prosperity,” he added.

The Minister concluded by outlining a clear roadmap for the next 12 months, including:
•    Establishing the G20 DRR WG Continuity Taskforce, co-chaired by South Africa, India and Brazil, with the United Nations (UN) Disaster Risk Reduction acting as the Secretariat.
•    Hosting the G20 Resilience Financing Dialogue in Durban in the first quarter of 2026.
•    Developing the local resilience toolkit, in partnership with Singapore, Norway and the African Development Bank (AfDB).
•    Piloting the Recovery Readiness Framework in three South African municipalities.
•    Convening the G20 Resilience Innovation Forum alongside the G20 Summit in Johannesburg.
•    Monitoring and reporting on the implementation of EW4All quarterly, with the support of the South African Weather Service (SAWS) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which is responsible for many aspects related to information and communication technologies under the UN. 
 

The Minister further called on all partners to continue working in unity and purpose.

“The journey before us is not without challenges, but it is filled with opportunities for progress and transformation. Together, let us uphold the spirit of solidarity, equality, and sustainability, building a resilient Africa and a safer world for all. Filled with immense pride and responsibility, I am honoured to launch South Africa’s Early Warnings for All Roadmap officially,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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Madlanga Commission hearings resume today

Source: Government of South Africa

Madlanga Commission hearings resume today

The Madlanga Commission will resume its hearings at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College in Tshwane this morning.

“In view of the nature of the evidence to be presented when the hearings resume, the evidence leaders will apply for the hearings to be conducted in camera, in a closed session at which the media and members of the public will not be allowed. 

“If the Commission grants the application, the hearings will then proceed in camera until further notice,” commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels said.

South African Police Service (SAPS) Divisional Commissioner for Crime Intelligence, Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo, who was giving evidence before the commission’s break, will not be testifying.

“The Commission remains committed to the principles of transparency and accountability.

“Should circumstances permit a change in the mode of hearing, the media and the public will be informed accordingly,” Michaels said.

The Commission – which is officially known as the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System – has already heard the evidence of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, followed by that of South African Police Service (SAPS) National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola.

Other witnesses to have given testimony are KZN Director of Public Prosecutions at the National Prosecuting Authority, Elaine Harrison and SAPS Head of Governance, Legislation and Policy at the Legal Services Division, Major General Petronella van Rooyen. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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International Carpet & Flooring Expo (ICFE) 2026 expands with global reach and record growth in Istanbul

Source: APO

Now in its third edition, the International Carpet & Flooring Expo (ICFE) (https://apo-opa.co/4qmxfOy) — previously known as CFE, has rapidly established itself as one of the most important meeting points for the sector worldwide. Organised by Tüyap Exhibitions Group (https://Tuyap.com.tr/) in collaboration with the Istanbul Carpet Exporters’ Association (İHİB) and the Southeastern Anatolia Carpet Exporters’ Association (GAHİB), the fair has taken on a truly international identity, drawing buyers, manufacturers, and decision-makers from across six continents.

Even in an era when the winds of e-commerce sweep through every corner of trade, face-to-face networking continues to be where enduring connections are made that get deals done. For the carpet and flooring industry, no event embodies this better than ICFE, taking place at the Istanbul Expo Center from 6–9 January 2026.

A new hall added

The growth trajectory is striking. Responding to strong demand, ICFE has expanded to an 11th hall for 2026. All halls are already fully booked, with world-renowned brands securing their place early, reflecting the Expo’s role as a central hub for the industry.

ICFE’s global influence is powered by a comprehensive marketing strategy that spans more than 80 countries. Through digital media, targeted campaigns, and international B2B matchmaking systems, the Expo connects exhibitors and visitors directly and efficiently. This global outreach not only differentiates ICFE from other sector events but also ensures that each edition creates new opportunities for trade and partnership.

Over 50 thousand attendees expected

Looking ahead, ICFE 2026 is expected to host nearly 500 companies from 25 countries, including China, Iran, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, the USA, Egypt, Jordan, Belgium, and France. Around 50,000 professional visitors from 105 countries are anticipated, with particularly strong attendance from Germany, Italy, China, India, Iran, Belgium, the USA, Russia, and the Middle East. Building on the 2025 edition—where 78% of exhibitors reported new business connections—the organisers have set an ambitious target of 85% for 2026.

“Our industry may embrace digital tools, but it thrives on the trust and connections that come from meeting in person,” said İlhan Ersözlü at Tüyap Exhibitions Group. “The expansion of ICFE to an 11th hall and the diversity of international participation demonstrate how vital Istanbul has become as a global centre for carpets and flooring. ICFE 2026 will be a platform where new partnerships are formed, and the future of the industry takes shape.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of TÜYAP.

Contact:
Burcu Buse Arseven
burcu.arseven@unite.com.tr

About Tüyap:
Founded in 1979 by Bülent Ünal as Türkiye’s first private fair organisation company, Tüyap has shaped the industry for more than 46 years. It has hosted over 370,000 companies and 75 million visitors through specialised fairs at home and abroad. Today, Tüyap operates three fair centres in Türkiye and maintains offices in six countries, working with more than 100 professional organisations worldwide. It pioneered Turkish export product fairs in China, Russia, and Africa, and continues to support international trade with an average of 10 foreign fairs each year. As the only private organiser in Türkiye with its own fair centre, Tüyap combines physical events with digital platforms to deliver hybrid fairs that meet the needs of a globalised market.

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