Category: MIL-OSI

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National Committee for Preparation of National Human Rights Action Plan Holds Second Meeting

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | October 02 2025

The National Committee for the Preparation of the National Human Rights Action Plan (2026-2030) held its second meeting, chaired by Acting Director of the Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Vice Chairperson of the Committee Sarah Abdullah Al Saadi.
During the meeting, the Committee reviewed the latest developments in its work related to preparing the national plan. It also discussed the completed phases and upcoming implementation steps, in implementation of the decision of the esteemed Cabinet.
The Committee stressed the importance of continuing coordination and joint efforts to implement the plan, as it is a pivotal national strategy for consolidating the State of Qatar’s commitments in the field of human rights, in line with the priorities of Qatar National Vision 2030.

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Vivashan Muthan Appointed as Head of Export Sales and Operations at RS South Africa

Source: APO – Report:

With a career spanning engineering, business development, and sales leadership across Sub-Saharan Africa, Vivashan Muthan brings a wealth of expertise to his new role as Head of Export Sales and Operations at RS South Africa (https://Africa.RSDelivers.com). Known for building systems that drive growth and resilience in real-world markets, Muthan is set to lead the company’s export strategy into a new era of scale and impact.

Muthan’s professional journey has seen him hold senior roles at leading multinationals such as Fluke Corporation, SICK Sensor Intelligence, Siemens and Timken , where he managed multi-country sales teams, distribution channels, and large-scale business operations. His diverse experience spans technology management, channel optimisation, and digital integration, with a strong track record of delivering measurable growth across industries including rail, automotive, off-highway, and industrial automation.

Complementing his field expertise, Muthan holds a BSc (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, an MSc in Industrial Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand and is currently pursuing a PhD in Industrial Engineering focused on intelligent industrial ecosystems. He has also completed executive education through Harvard Business School, specialising in strategy execution, and is a registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng). In addition, he is an ontological coach certified by The SOAR Institute. This credential strengthens his ability to lead with empathy, develop people, and foster high-performing teams.

At RS South Africa, Muthan takes full commercial ownership of the export business across Sub-Saharan Africa, overseeing revenue, profit, distributor development, and customer experience. His approach is rooted in building insight-led, scalable systems that align operational excellence with customer relevance. He has cultivated strong networks with corporates, distributors, Engineering, Procurement, and Construction companies  and industrial stakeholders across the region, which will enable RS to strengthen partnerships and deliver value-driven solutions.

Muthan’s vision for RS South Africa’s export operations is to transform them into a growth platform that not only delivers Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) solutions but also drives innovation, efficiency, and long-term partnerships. His ability to integrate academic rigour with practical execution ensures that RS remains a trusted partner in enabling industrial growth and resilience across African markets.

With his blend of technical expertise, leadership experience, and strategic foresight, Muthan is poised to position RS South Africa as the partner of choice for businesses navigating the continent’s evolving industrial landscape.

For more information about RS Africa export solutions, visit our website (https://Africa.RSDelivers.com) and follow us on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/42WiibJ) for updates.

– on behalf of RS South Africa.

PR Contact Person – RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
RS South Africa
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366

Media Contact Person – NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763

Social Media:
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4ntixTP
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/42WiibJ
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3VILLCb
​Vivashan Muthan LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/46PBokW

Further information is available via these links:
RS South Africa: https://apo-opa.co/4o6myOd
RS Africa Exports: https://Africa.RSDelivers.com
DesignSpark: https://apo-opa.co/3INv5pZ
RS Group plc: www.RSGroup.com

About RS:
RS is a global product and service solutions provider for industrial customers, enabling them to operate efficiently and sustainably.

We operate in 36 markets, stock over 800,000 industrial and specialist products and list an additional five million relevant for our industrial customers, sourced from over 2,500 suppliers. This extensive range supports our customers across the industrial lifecycle of designing, building, and maintaining equipment and operations.

We enhance their experience through a tailored service model, leveraging our efficient physical, digital and process infrastructure sustainably. We combine a technically led and digitally enabled approach with an exceptional team of experts; ultimately, it’s our people that make the difference.

Our purpose, making amazing happen for a better world, reflects our focus on delivering results for people planet and profit.

RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2024 reported revenue of £2,942 million.

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Binance Launches The Blockchain 100 Award to Honor Top Creators Driving Blockchain Innovation

Source: APO – Report:

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Binance (www.Binance.com), the world’s largest crypto exchange by trading volume and users, today announced the inaugural launch of The Blockchain 100 (https://apo-opa.co/42kDgRn). This new annual awards show is designed to recognize and celebrate the most influential creators advancing blockchain education, innovation, and community engagement.

The Blockchain 100 aims to spotlight individuals and teams who have made outstanding contributions to the blockchain ecosystem through education, information sharing, and inspirational content. By honoring creators across seven distinct categories, Binance seeks to elevate voices that have profoundly impacted the industry and helped foster broader adoption of cryptocurrency and Web3 technologies.

The awards will recognize 100 creators across the following categories:

  • Industry Advocate: Founders, entrepreneurs, and content creators championing the Web3 ecosystem.
  • Independent Researcher: Analysts providing original, in-depth blockchain research.
  • Trader: Market experts delivering insights, price analysis, and trading strategies.
  • Community Builder: Influencers building and nurturing crypto communities and DAOs.
  • Video and Live Creator: Storytellers producing engaging video and livestream content.
  • Crypto Press: Journalists and media outlets covering blockchain with rigor and balance.
  • Rising Star: Rising talents showing exceptional promise in crypto content creation.

Eligible nominees must primarily produce educational or inspiring crypto-related content, be a public-facing individual with no major issues, and have a minimum of 10,000 followers on at least one major social platform such as X, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Telegram, Discord, Binance Square, or CoinMarketCap.

The Blockchain 100 features a transparent, community-driven selection process as follows:

  • Public Nomination: Open from September 25 to October 12, 2025 (UTC), anyone can nominate creators, including self-nominations and nominations on behalf of communities, projects, or companies.
  • Community Voting: From October 15 to October 26, 2025 (UTC), shortlisted candidates will be presented for public voting on Binance Square (https://apo-opa.co/3VLJpm0). Verified Binance users can vote once per category daily.
  • Final Results: Winners will be announced on November 3, 2025 (UTC).
  • Award Ceremony: An in-person ceremony will be held on December 3, 2025, during Binance Blockchain Week in Dubai (https://apo-opa.co/42oEM53), where winners will receive engraved medals and participate in exclusive events.

“Crypto has always been about the community and the people who make it possible,” shared Rachel Conlan, Chief Marketing Officer of Binance. “The Blockchain 100 is a nod to that spirit. Progressing the industry towards one billion users and beyond will take collective effort, and we want to recognize the individuals who have put in the hard work from the early days to help build this vibrant ecosystem.”

Nominations are now open. Further information on The Blockchain 100 and submission of nominations can be done through the event landing page here (https://apo-opa.co/42kDgRn).

– on behalf of Binance.

About Binance:
Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Binance is trusted by more than 280 million people in 100+ countries for its industry-leading security, transparency, trading engine speed, protections for investors, and unmatched portfolio of digital asset products and offerings from trading and finance to education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 features. Binance is devoted to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people around the world with crypto as the fundamental means. For more information, visit: www.Binance.com

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NHLS hosts SA’s leading conference on pathology and diagnostics

Source: Government of South Africa

The Pathology Research and Development Congress (PathReD) 2025, South Africa’s leading conference on pathology and diagnostics, is currently taking place at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Gauteng.

More than just a scientific meeting, the congress emphasises the importance of diagnostics as a cornerstone of health equity and a fundamental component of universal health coverage.

Under the theme: ‘Enriching Health through Research’, and focusing on “Bridging the Gap: Pathology in Resource-Limited Settings,” PathReD 2025 will feature over 25 distinguished speakers.

Included are the CEO of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Professor Koleka Mlisana, the Swiss microbiologist, Professor Adrian Egli, and the NHLS Executive Manager for Academic Affairs, Research, and Quality Assurance, Professor Elise Schapkaitz. 

The congress will conclude on Sunday, uniting scientists, pathologists, policymakers, innovators and healthcare professionals to discuss advancements in medical technologies, precision diagnostics, and practical solutions for urban and rural communities.

The programme includes interactive workshops, panel discussions, and expert-led presentations that address the most pressing challenges in laboratory medicine and patient care.

At PathReD 2025, the NHLS will demonstrate its commitment to promoting health equity, minimising inequalities, and ensuring that every South African has access to timely, high-quality diagnostics. 

“Every test matters and every step counts, from laboratories to hospital wards, bringing the country one step closer to a time when health is a right rather than a privilege.”

The NHLS, as the host, has reinforced its vision of becoming a centre of excellence in laboratory and clinical medicine. Its mission is to provide patient-centred services through innovation, collaboration, and equity. – SAnews.gov.za.

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Eskom veteran Monde Bala appointed National Transmission Company SA CEO

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Long serving Eskom official, Monde Bala, has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the power utility’s transmission arm, the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA).

Bala has been serving as the entity’s interim CEO for the past two months and was appointed following a rigorous recruitment process.

NTCSA board chairperson, Priscillah Mabelane, expressed the board’s confidence in Bala’s ability to lead it “into its next chapter”.

“He brings a wealth of experience and insight to the role, and we look forward to continuing our work with him and the executive team as we drive forward our strategic deliverables,” Mabelane said.

Bala brings some 27 years’ experience in the energy sector to the NTCSA and was serving as Eskom Group Executive for Distribution prior to his appointment.

He also served in various senior positions within the power utility.

“Mr Bala is uniquely positioned to guide the NTCSA as it continues to deliver on its mandate of providing reliable, fair, and affordable access to the electricity grid and market, supporting sustainable and inclusive economic growth. His appointment marks a significant milestone in accelerating the development of a more competitive and efficient electricity market that benefits all South Africans.

“Mr Bala’s leadership will be instrumental in accelerating the execution of the NTCSA’s strategy, which includes attracting investment into the transmission grid through the implementation of the Transmission Development Plan [TDP], advancing operational unbundling in line with legislative requirements, and fostering a fair and competitive electricity market.

“He holds a BSc in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cape Town and a Master of Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand. The NTCSA welcomes Mr Bala’s appointment and looks forward to his leadership in shaping the future of South Africa’s energy landscape,” the NTCSA said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Qatar Strongly Condemns Israeli Interception of Global Sumud Flotilla

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – 2 October 2025

The State of Qatar strongly condemns the interception by Israeli occupation forces of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, and describes the move as a flagrant violation of international law and a threat to maritime safety and freedom of navigation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the need to ensure the safety of all participants aboard the Flotilla and calls for their immediate release. The Ministry also urges the launch of an urgent investigation into the incident and demands that those responsible be held accountable.

The Ministry reiterates Qatar’s call on the international community to uphold its moral and legal responsibilities by taking decisive action against the continued violations of international humanitarian law by the Israeli occupation authorities. The Ministry further stresses the importance of ensuring the safe, unimpeded, and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid to all areas of the Gaza Strip.

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Bantu Gazette Launches Flagship Magazine Focused on African Perspective, Progress and Voice

Source: APO

Bantu Gazette (www.BantuGazette.com), a new quarterly publication committed to advancing African perspectives on politics, culture, and economic transformation, has officially launched (https://apo-opa.co/4nStYEk). The magazine introduces a platform that presents Africa’s stories through the voices of those who live them.

Grounded in the belief that narrative power must be anchored on African soil, Bantu Gazette explores how the continent defines its own direction through stories told by Africans themselves. It blends traditional storytelling with modern policy insight, offering thoughtful engagement with the forces shaping African societies. From Lagos to Johannesburg, Marrakech to Lilongwe, Addis Ababa to Dakar, and Douala to Gaborone, the magazine reflects a wide regional lens.

“Who tells Africa’s story?” asks Editorial Director Felix Tih in the inaugural issue. He highlights a quote from Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe that says, “If you don’t like someone’s story, write your own.”

“This wisdom guides everything we do,” Tih explains. “As Africans, we shape our future by documenting our challenges, celebrating our breakthroughs, and creating space for honest self-reflection.”

The first issue presents perspectives on energy innovation, cross-border trade, education reform, and the growing influence of African youth on the global stage. Highlights include a feature on digital sovereignty, profiles of women driving progress in the energy sector, and a deep look into Ethiopia’s evolving political landscape. Readers will also find stories of young leaders redefining business, technology, and policy across the continent.

Bantu Gazette is the editorial wing of Bantu Agency, a communications firm that partners with institutions and changemakers across Africa to shape compelling narratives. In collaboration with journalists, researchers, and creatives from more than 12 countries, the magazine creates space for thoughtful reflection and strategic storytelling.

Published in both print and digital formats, future editions will include multilingual content in English and French. Thematic issues will spotlight diaspora networks, infrastructure, urban innovation, intracontinental trade, artificial intelligence and climate resilience. Distribution through cultural centers, academic institutions, and professional networks will help expand access to readers throughout the continent and beyond.

Youth leadership is central to the magazine’s voice. Each issue combines longform journalism with strategic insight, creative work, and contributions from rising thinkers across sectors.

“We are building a publication that reflects the complexity of African societies and the brilliance of African ideas,” said Tih. “Bantu Gazette is a space for those who shape, question, and reimagine the future, guided by experience, grounded in truth, and driven by vision.”

Bantu Gazette is available at https://apo-opa.co/4nStYEk. The publication welcomes contributions from writers, researchers, and creatives committed to advancing Africa’s voice in global dialogue.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Bantu Gazette.

Contact:
Felix Tih
Editorial Director
Email: ftih@bantugazette.com
WhatsApp: +41 77 216 33 47

Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4pRDTfa
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3KD7nxj
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3VNp5Rb
X: https://apo-opa.co/4318fSG

About Bantu Gazette:
Bantu Gazette is a continental editorial platform that champions Africa’s development, culture, and sovereignty. It features stories of policy, people, and progress, offering space for intellectual, creative, and institutional voices shaping the continent’s future. The magazine supports Africa’s sustainable development through transformative communication.

Website: www.BantuGazette.com

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Network International et Magnati fusionnent pour créer la fintech leader du Moyen-Orient et de l’Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Network International (www.Network.ae), l’une des principales fintechs au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique (MOA), et Magnati, l’un des principaux fournisseurs de solutions de paiement aux Émirats Arabes Unis, annoncent aujourd’hui l’achèvement de leur fusion stratégique sous la propriété d’un consortium dirigé par Brookfield. 

L’entité fusionnée opérera sous le nom de Network International LLC. Avec une gamme étendue de solutions, allant des paiements numériques et des informations basées sur les données aux prêts aux PME et à la prévention antifraude, l’entité fusionnée est très bien positionnée pour stimuler l’innovation à grande échelle et soutenir l’inclusion financière dans toute la région. La société continuera de collaborer avec les gouvernements pour accélérer la transformation numérique et élargir l’accès aux services financiers dans l’ensemble de la région MOA. 

Hadi Badri, président du conseil d’administration, Network International, déclare : « Cette fusion crée un champion de la fintech pour la région du Moyen-Orient et de l’Afrique, né localement aux ÉAU, avec des possibilités attrayantes de croissance et d’innovation. La plateforme combinée de Network International et de Magnati permettra aux commerçants locaux de prospérer dans l’une des régions les plus dynamiques au monde pour les technologies financières ».  

Murat Cagri Suzer, CEO du groupe, Network International, déclare : « En unissant deux leaders dotés d’une expertise et de capacités régionales approfondies, nous créons une plateforme fintech dotée de la portée, de la technologie et des talents nécessaires pour façonner l’avenir du commerce numérique dans la région. Ensemble, nous apportons encore plus de valeur à nos clients et partenaires grâce à des offres de produits diversifiées, à une innovation accélérée, des données et des informations optimisées et à une présence géographique renforcée ». 

L’intégration des deux entreprises se fera de manière progressive, et leurs marques continuent pour l’instant de coexister.  

Distribué par APO Group pour Network International.

À propos de Network International:
Network International est la principale fintech au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique. Notre objectif est de soutenir les entreprises et les économies à se développer en simplifiant les paiements et le commerce. Nous servons un écosystème diversifié de banques, de fintechs, de sociétés de télécommunications, de commerçants, de gouvernements et d’acteurs du secteur public dans plus de 50 pays, en fournissant des technologies innovantes, des services à valeur ajoutée et une expertise approfondie des systèmes et infrastructures de paiement. Les 3 000 membres de notre équipe travaillent en étroite collaboration avec 250 institutions financières et 240 000 commerçants pour fournir des solutions de paiement et de fintech éprouvées, évolutives et prêtes pour l’avenir dans toute la région. 

À propos de Magnati: 
Magnati est un chef de file régional des solutions de paiement axées sur l’acquisition directe, de traitement des transactions pour les émetteurs et les acquéreurs. Magnati fournit aux gouvernements, commerçants et clients institutionnels une plateforme de paiement intelligente, utilisant des technologies de dernière génération pour offrir des expériences améliorées et une efficacité accrue. 

L’expertise et les relations de Magnati, dont le siège se situe à Abou Dabi, constituent une plateforme permettant à l’entreprise d’attirer des partenaires internationaux tout en établissant une nouvelle norme en matière d’innovation et d’exécution dans le secteur des paiements. 

Rendez-vous sur www.Magnati.com pour de plus amples renseignements. 

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Network International and Magnati merge to create the leading fintech across the Middle East & Africa

Source: APO – Report:

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Network International (www.Network.ae), a leading fintech company across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Magnati, a leading payment solution provider in the UAE, today announced the completion of their strategic merger under the ownership of a Brookfield-led consortium.  

The merged entity will operate under the name Network International LLC.  With an expanded suite of solutions, ranging from digital payments and data-driven insights to SME lending and advanced fraud prevention, the merged entity is well-placed to drive innovation, scale, and financial inclusion across the region. The company will continue to collaborate with governments to accelerate digital transformation and expand access to financial services throughout MEA. 

Hadi Badri, Chairman of the Board, Network International, said, “This merger creates a UAE homegrown fintech champion for the Middle East and Africa region with attractive opportunities for growth and innovation. The combined platform of Network International and Magnati will empower local merchants to thrive in one of the world’s most dynamic fintech regions.”  

Murat Cagri Suzer, Group CEO of Network International, said, “By uniting two leaders with deep regional expertise and capabilities, we are creating a fintech platform with the scale, technology, and talent to shape the future of digital commerce across the region. Together, we bring even greater value to our clients and partners through diverse product offerings, faster innovation, enhanced data and insights, and a stronger geographic footprint.”  

The integration of both businesses will take place in a phased manner, and their brands will continue to co-exist for the time being.    

– on behalf of Network International.

Media Contacts:
Corporate Communications 
Network International 
Dubai, UAE 
Tel: +971 4 303 2431 
Email: lambert.espedido@network.global 

Carole Helou 
Burson, UAE 
Tel: 971-4-4507600;
Fax: 971-4-4358040 
Email: carole.helou@bursonglobal.com  

About Network International:
Network International is the Middle East and Africa’s leading fintech company. Our purpose is to help businesses and economies grow by simplifying payments and commerce. We serve a diverse ecosystem of banks, fintechs, telcos, merchants, governments and public sector entities spanning 50+ countries – empowering our partners with innovative technology, value-added services, and deep expertise in payment systems and infrastructure. Our 3,000+ team members on the ground work closely with 250+ financial institutions and 240,000+ merchants to deliver reliable, scalable, and future-ready payment and fintech solutions across the region. 

About Magnati: 
Magnati is a regional leader in the payment solutions industry focused on direct acquiring, issuer processing, and acquiring processing. Magnati provides government, merchant, and institutional clients with an intelligent payments platform, using next-generation technology to deliver improved experiences and increased efficiency. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Magnati’s expertise and relationships provide a platform for the company to attract international partners while setting a new standard for innovation and delivery in the payments industry. 

Visit www.Magnati.com for more information. 

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Nigeria Promotes Multi-Pillar Mining Sector Expansion Strategy at African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO – Report:

Nigeria unveiled a multi-pillar mining sector expansion and beneficiation strategy at African Mining Week (AMW) 2025, aimed at shifting the country from exporting raw minerals to producing value-added products.

Presenting the plan, Yusuf Farouk Yabo, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Mines, said the strategy is designed to unlock Nigeria’s mineral wealth while driving industrialization and regional integration.

The first pillar focuses on beneficiation and value addition, with Nigeria planning to establish processing plants for rare earth minerals and promote regional infrastructure integration.

“We are moving from raw material suppliers to producers of value-added products. For too long, we have exported raw minerals for processing elsewhere, and the benefits have not reached our people. Today we are rich in resources yet poor in outcomes,” Yabo noted.

The second pillar emphasizes energy infrastructure development to ensure affordable and reliable power for mining operations.

“No industrialization can thrive without secure power. The AfCFTA provides a chance to connect markets and industries through strong infrastructure linkages,” Yabo said.

The third pillar highlights technology transfer and skills development, with a focus on youth empowerment.

“Youth training must be a cornerstone of industry growth. Young people are our greatest assets, not a burden. With the right skills, they will build responsible and sustainable mining,” he added.

The fourth pillar centers on policy and investment alignment across Africa, with Nigeria reforming regulations, introducing innovative de-risking tools and strengthening partnerships to harmonize infrastructure and policy frameworks.

“Our strategy is not just about mining for mining’s sake; it is about justice, technology, and building regional value chains,” Yabo emphasized.

Nigeria is also reworking inactive and dormant mining licenses, advancing a national critical minerals strategy and providing incentives for local beneficiation projects.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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