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17 pays s’engagent à mettre en œuvre des plans concrets pour améliorer l’accès à l’électricité dans le cadre de l’extension de la Mission 300

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Dix-sept gouvernements africains se sont engagés aujourd’hui à mettre en œuvre des réformes et des plans concrets visant à améliorer l’accès à l’électricité dans le cadre de la Mission 300, un partenariat ambitieux mené par le Groupe de la Banque mondiale et le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement  (https://www.AfDB.org/), qui vise à connecter 300 millions d’Africains à l’électricité d’ici 2030.

Lors du Bloomberg Philanthropies Global Forum (https://apo-opa.co/42dhJtN), des Pactes énergétiques nationaux — des schémas directeurs concrets qui guident les dépenses publiques, suscitent des réformes et attirent les capitaux privés — ont été approuvés par le Bénin, le Botswana, le Burundi, le Cameroun, les Comores, la République du Congo, l’Éthiopie, la Gambie, le Ghana, la Guinée, le Kenya, le Lesotho, le Mozambique, la Namibie, Sao Tomé-et-Principe, la Sierra Leone et le Togo.

« L’électricité est la base de l’emploi, des opportunités et de la croissance économique », a déclaré Ajay Banga, président du Groupe de la Banque mondiale. « C’est pourquoi la Mission 300 est plus qu’un objectif : elle forge des réformes durables qui réduisent les coûts, renforcent les services publics et attirent les investissements privés. »

Depuis le lancement (https://apo-opa.co/3KfhisX) de la Mission 300, 30 millions de personnes ont déjà été raccordées, et plus de 100 millions sont dans le pipeline.

« Une énergie fiable et abordable est le multiplicateur le plus rapide pour les petites et moyennes entreprises, la transformation agricole, le travail numérique et la création de valeur industrielle », a déclaré le président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement, M. Sidi Ould Tah. « Donnez de l’énergie à un jeune entrepreneur, et vous lui donnez une rémunération. »

Les Pactes énergétiques nationaux sont au cœur de la Mission 300. Ils ont été élaborés et approuvés par les gouvernements avec le soutien technique des partenaires au développement. Adaptés au contexte de chaque pays, ces plans d’action concrets intègrent trois axes principaux : les infrastructures, le financement et les politiques.

Plus tôt dans l’année, des Pactes énergétiques ont été approuvés par le Tchad (https://apo-opa.co/4gF13Bj), la Côte d’Ivoire (https://apo-opa.co/4mE9sWZ), la République démocratique du Congo (https://apo-opa.co/3IB2YKL), le Libéria (https://apo-opa.co/46oLQkz), Madagascar (https://apo-opa.co/3W9jaG5), le Malawi (https://apo-opa.co/3IvVnx2), la Mauritanie (https://apo-opa.co/4mB96Re), le Niger (https://apo-opa.co/4njBRTr), le Nigeria (https://apo-opa.co/4mFo48O), le Sénégal (https://apo-opa.co/4nysQ96), la Tanzanie (https://apo-opa.co/3VBpA0A) et la Zambie (https://apo-opa.co/4nxsNKT)  qui se sont engagés à mettre en œuvre plus de 400 mesures politiques visant à renforcer les services publics, réduire les risques pour les investisseurs et supprimer les goulets d’étranglement.

Le Groupe de la Banque mondiale et le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement travaillent avec des partenaires, tels que la Fondation Rockefeller (https://apo-opa.co/42bC2b2), l’Alliance mondiale pour l’énergie au service des populations et de la planète (la GEAPP) (https://apo-opa.co/3KkwtkA), Énergie durable pour tous (SEforALL) (https://apo-opa.co/4nqxGFA) et le fonds fiduciaire du Programme d’assistance à la gestion du secteur énergétique (ESMAP) (https://apo-opa.co/4gS8ZiP) de la Banque mondiale afin d’harmoniser les efforts en faveur de l’électrification de l’Afrique. De nombreux partenaires au développement et institutions financières de développement soutiennent également les projets de la Mission 300 par le biais de cofinancements et d’une assistance technique.

Citations des chefs d’État et des ministres africains qui se sont engagés aujourd’hui en faveur des Pactes énergétiques de la Mission 300 :

Duma Boko
Président du Botswana :
« Ce pacte national est notre engagement commun à garantir une énergie accessible, fiable et abordable en tant que besoin humain fondamental, à transformer notre économie et à créer des emplois, et à électrifier notre chemin vers un pays inclusif à revenu élevé. »

Paul Biya

Président de la République du Cameroun

« Le gouvernement de la République du Cameroun s’engage, à travers son Pacte énergétique, à opérer une transition résolue vers les énergies renouvelables, promouvant un accès universel inclusif et un développement durable fondé sur des partenariats et des réformes ambitieuses pour construire un avenir à faible émission de carbone. »

Azali Assoumani

Président de l’Union des Comores

« Le Pacte énergétique des Comores est un appel à l’action collective pour parvenir à l’accès universel à l’électricité d’ici 2030, afin d’assurer l’émergence du pays dans la dignité, l’équité et le progrès partagé. »

Denis Sassou Nguesso

Président de la République du Congo

« Outre d’abondantes ressources solaires et gazières capables de produire davantage d’électricité, la République du Congo dispose d’un potentiel hydroélectrique certifié de près de 27 000 MW et de plus de 100 000 MW actuellement à l’étude. Le Pacte énergétique permettra au Congo d’atteindre l’accès universel à l’électricité, d’approvisionner les industries des zones économiques et minières spéciales et d’exporter l’énergie excédentaire vers d’autres pays. L’exploitation de cette énergie renouvelable et durable couvrira plus d’un tiers des besoins en électricité de l’Afrique. Le Congo ayant libéralisé le secteur de l’électricité, les investisseurs sont invités, dans le cadre de la Mission 300, à s’implanter et à s’engager dans des activités rentables et durables. »

Taye Atske Selassie,
Président de l’Éthiopie
« Notre Pacte énergétique national illustre l’engagement indéfectible de l’Éthiopie à garantir un accès universel, abordable et durable à l’énergie pour tous. En exploitant nos vastes ressources renouvelables et en renforçant les interconnexions régionales, nous visons à favoriser une croissance inclusive au niveau national et à impulser la dynamique collective de l’Afrique vers l’éradication de la précarité énergétique. Ensemble, nous nous engageons à bâtir un avenir énergétique résilient, équitable et durable pour les générations à venir. »

Adama Barrow

Président de la République de Gambie

« Le Pacte énergétique de la Gambie réaffirme notre engagement en faveur d’un accès universel à l’électricité d’ici 2030, du développement des énergies renouvelables, du renforcement des infrastructures, de l’intégration du secteur privé et de l’amélioration de la gouvernance sectorielle. Grâce à des partenariats, il vise à transformer l’approvisionnement en électricité, garantissant ainsi fiabilité, accessibilité et durabilité pour tous les citoyens. »

John Dramani Mahama

Président de la République du Ghana

« Le Ghana est convaincu que l’accès universel à l’énergie est essentiel pour autonomiser les entreprises, réduire la pauvreté et créer l’égalité des chances. Cet objectif ne peut être atteint qu’à travers des partenariats solides entre le gouvernement et le secteur privé, soutenus par un environnement propice à l’investissement durable. »

Mamadi Doumbouya

Président de la République de Guinée

« La République de Guinée réaffirme son engagement à garantir, d’ici 2030, l’accès universel à une électricité fiable, propre et abordable, tout en fournissant une capacité suffisante pour soutenir l’industrialisation nationale, en particulier dans le secteur minier, grâce à un partenariat transparent et constructif avec le secteur privé. »

William Ruto

Président de la République du Kenya

« L’énergie est un élément clé du volet infrastructurel du programme de transformation économique ascendante du Kenya.

Ce Pacte énergétique vient ancrer notre engagement à parvenir à l’accès universel à l’électricité et à une cuisson propre, et à assurer la transition de notre réseau vers une dépendance totale aux énergies propres d’ici 2030. »

Sam Matekane

Premier ministre du Royaume du Lesotho

« Les vents des montagnes soufflent, les eaux s’écoulent, le soleil rayonne : le Lesotho, le royaume dans le ciel. L’accès universel aux énergies renouvelables est notre fière priorité. Faites l’expérience des hauteurs avec agilité et à grande échelle. Prenez part à notre aventure et partagez notre fierté. Investissez au Lesotho. »

Daniel Chapo,
Président du Mozambique :
« Le Mozambique est en bonne voie pour atteindre les objectifs de la Mission 300 et consolider son rôle de puissance régionale grâce à l’exportation de son énergie abondante, abordable et propre. Nous saluons le soutien de nos partenaires pour parvenir à un accès universel, promouvoir la croissance économique et l’industrialisation verte, et accroître l’intégration et le commerce régionaux. »

Julius Maada Bio

Président de la Sierra Leone

« Notre pacte M300 est l’initiative la plus ambitieuse et la plus complète jamais développée en matière d’infrastructures énergétiques en Sierra Leone. S’appuyant sur des solutions et des données fondées sur des éléments probants, ce plan unique pour la transformation énergétique de la Sierra Leone est le plus prometteur pour débloquer un développement durable et inclusif pour notre population. »

Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé

Président de la République togolaise

« Nous garantissons à tous une électricité fiable, abordable et propre, ainsi que l’accès à une cuisson propre. Ce pacte mobilise massivement le secteur privé pour accélérer notre industrialisation et faire du Togo un pôle énergétique compétitif. »

Américo d’Oliveira dos Ramos,

Premier ministre de Sao Tomé-et-Principe :
« Notre pacte fournit un cadre visionnaire pour alimenter un modèle de croissance économique durable et inclusif pour les Sao-Toméens.

Nous mettons en œuvre des réformes solides et développons des modèles commerciaux innovants afin de lever 190 millions de dollars auprès du secteur privé pour financer cet objectif. »

Edouard Bizimana

Ministre des Affaires étrangères du Burundi

« La République du Burundi s’est fixé des objectifs ambitieux en matière d’accès à l’électricité et à une cuisson propre afin d’améliorer le développement économique et social de sa population. La participation du secteur privé est essentielle pour atteindre ces objectifs. »

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

Contacts :
Relations avec les médias du Groupe de la Banque mondiale :
press@worldbank.org

Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
media@afdb.org

Sites Web :
www.WorldBank.org
https://www.AfDB.org/

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Invictus Energy to Lead Zimbabwe Energies Summit on Gas, Mining and Energy Growth at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Source: APO

The African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – Africa’s largest energy event scheduled for September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town – will feature the highly-anticipated Invest in Zimbabwe Energies Closed Door Summit. Led by the Government of Zimbabwe and with  Invictus Energy as partner, the session provides a strategic opportunity for investors, project developers and global partners to gain direct insight into the country’s energy and mining sectors.

As one of Africa’s final oil and gas frontiers and one of the continent’s biggest mineral producers, Zimbabwe offers significant opportunities for companies across both the natural and mineral resource sectors. Strong political will and an improved business have strengthened the country’s attractiveness for foreign investment, while Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s position as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community in 2025 reflects a commitment to working with regional partners to advance economic development. The Invest in Zimbabwe Energies Summit builds on these efforts, offering a platform for global investors to connect with Zimbabwean projects. 

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

While Zimbabwe’s energy matrix has been dominated by hydropower, forays into natural gas exploration show the promise of a diversified energy portfolio. The country has emerged as one of Africa’s top frontier gas markets in recent years, with ongoing drilling activities led by Invictus Energy yielding positive results. The company is advancing the development of the Cabora Bassa Project in northern Zimbabwe – one of the world’s largest untested frontier rift basins – following a string of discoveries made in 2023 and 2024. The government is currently the Petroleum Production Sharing Agreement with Invictus Energy and has recently provides National Project Status to the Cabora Bassa development.

As an Australian oil and gas company focused on the Cabora Bassa Project, Invictus Energy is leading Zimbabwe’s gas agenda. The company secured the green light in 2025 to begin pilot production activities in the country, including supplying gas to the Eureka Gold Mine. This not only underscores the potential for gas utilization in the country but reflects opportunities for cross-sector development. As one of the country’s biggest contributors to GDP, the mining industry is a strategic market for Zimbabwe. Through gas, the industry is well-positioned to advance production even further. 

Looking ahead, Invictus Energy is preparing to drill its next exploration well at the Musuma-1 site in H2, 2025, backed by an agreement signed with Al Mansour Holdings (AMH). Signed in August 2025, the deal will see AMH acquire a 19.9% stake in Invictus Energy, mobilizing up to $500 million in conditional future financing to support exploration activities in Zimbabwe. Musuma-1 targets up to 1.2 trillion cubic feet of gas, showcasing the level of potential in Zimbabwe’s onshore basins. While efforts by Invictus Energy have unlocked a new petroleum province in southern Africa, most of the country’s natural gas market is underexplored. The Invest in Zimbabwe Energies Summit will spotlight opportunities in gas exploration and production. 

Beyond natural gas, Zimbabwe continues to cement its position as an emerging energy producer, with projects in coal production, renewable energy development and power infrastructure set to enhance energy access and security. In 2025, the country is on track to increase coal production by 10.5%, with output set to reach 6.3 million tons throughout the year. In tandem, the country is advancing new hydropower developments, with key initiatives including the Lake Mutirikwi plant, the Batoka Gorge plant and the Osborne Dam Mini-Hydro project. Across these sectors, significant gaps remain, presenting a unique opportunity for project developers and financiers.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is consolidating its position as a leading mineral producer, with the anticipated restructuring of the Mines and Minerals Amendment bill supporting mining activities. As Africa’s largest lithium producer, the country has already begun to play a central role in global supply chains and is poised to be a driver for Africa’s energy transition. Recent investments signal renewed global interest in the country’s lithium prospects. These include a $310 million investment by British and Chinese firms in the Sandawana mine; a $300 million upgrade to the Bikita mine; and a $300 million investment by ZHEJIANG Huayou Cobalt at the Arcadia mine. Zimbabwe is also emerging as a front-runner in gold and platinum group metal production. Striving to reach 40 tons in gold production in 2025, the country is inviting investments across the gold value chain. The Invest in Zimbabwe Energies Summit will serve as a vehicle for this investment. 

“Zimbabwe is positioning itself as one of Africa’s most exciting frontiers for both energy and mining investment. The country’s emerging natural gas potential, combined with its vast mineral wealth, creates opportunities that few markets can rival. Strong political will, regulatory reform and a commitment to regional integration make Zimbabwe an attractive destination for capital. Investors who move now will be well-placed to benefit from the country’s transformation into a diversified energy and mining powerhouse” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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17 Countries Commit to Concrete Plans to Scale Up Electricity Access as Mission 300 Expands

Source: APO

Seventeen African governments today committed to reforms and actionable plans to expand electricity access as part of Mission 300—an ambitious partnership led by the World Bank Group and African Development Bank Group (https://www.AfDB.org/) that aims to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030.

At the Bloomberg Philanthropies Global Forum (https://apo-opa.co/42dhJtN) , national Energy Compacts—practical blueprints that guide public spending, trigger reforms, and attract private capital—were endorsed by Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Comoros, the Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, São Tomé and Principe, Sierra Leone, and Togo.

“Electricity is the bedrock of jobs, opportunity, and economic growth,” said World Bank Group President Ajay Banga. “That’s why Mission 300 is more than a target—it is forging enduring reforms that slash costs, strengthen utilities, and draw in private investment.”

Since the launch (https://apo-opa.co/3KfhisX) of Mission 300, 30 million people have already been connected, with more than 100 million in the pipeline.

“Reliable, affordable power is the fastest multiplier for small and medium enterprises, agro-processing, digital work, and industrial value-addition,” said African Development Bank Group President Dr Sidi Ould Tah. “Give a young entrepreneur power, and you’ve given them a paycheck.”

National Energy Compacts are at the core of Mission 300, developed and endorsed by governments with technical support from development partners. Tailored to each country’s context, these practical blueprints integrate three core tracks—infrastructure, financing, and policy.

Earlier this year, Energy Compacts were endorsed by Chad (https://apo-opa.co/4gF13Bj), Côte d’Ivoire (https://apo-opa.co/4mE9sWZ), Democratic Republic of Congo (https://apo-opa.co/3IB2YKL), Liberia (https://apo-opa.co/46oLQkz), Madagascar (https://apo-opa.co/3W9jaG5), Malawi (https://apo-opa.co/3IvVnx2), Mauritania (https://apo-opa.co/4mB96Re), Niger (https://apo-opa.co/4njBRTr), Nigeria (https://apo-opa.co/4mFo48O), Senegal (https://apo-opa.co/4nysQ96), Tanzania (https://apo-opa.co/3VBpA0A), and Zambia (https://apo-opa.co/4nxsNKT)—together pledging to make more than 400 policy actions to strengthen utilities, reduce investor risk, and remove bottlenecks.

The World Bank Group and the African Development Bank Group are working with partners including the Rockefeller Foundation (https://apo-opa.co/42bC2b2), Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) (https://apo-opa.co/3KkwtkA), Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) (https://apo-opa.co/4nqxGFA), and the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) (https://apo-opa.co/4gS8ZiP) trust fund to align efforts in support of powering Africa. Many development partners and development finance institutions are also supporting Mission 300 projects through co-financing and technical assistance.

Quotes by African Heads of State and Ministers Committing to Mission 300 Energy Compacts today:

Duma Boko
President of Botswana
“This National Compact is our shared pledge to ensure accessible, reliable and affordable energy as a basic human need, to transform our economy and create jobs, and to electrify our journey to an inclusive high-income country.”

Paul Biya
President of the Republic of Cameroon
“The government of the Republic of Cameroon is committed, through its Energy Compact, to a determined transition towards renewable energies, promoting inclusive universal access and sustainable development based on partnerships and ambitious reforms to build a low-carbon future.”

Azali Assoumani
President of the Union of the Comoros
“The Comoros Energy Compact is a call for collective action to achieve universal access to electricity by 2030, in order to ensure the country’s emergence in dignity, equity, and shared progress.”

Denis Sassou Nguesso
President of the Republic of Congo
“In addition to abundant sunlight and gas resources capable of generating more electricity, the Republic of Congo has a certified hydroelectric potential of nearly 27,000 MW and more than 100,000 MW currently under study. The Energy Compact will enable Congo to achieve universal access to electricity, supply industries in special economic and mining zones, and export surplus energy to other countries. Harnessing this renewable and sustainable energy will cover more than one-third of Africa’s electricity needs. Since Congo has liberalized the electricity sector, investors are invited, within the framework of Mission 300, to establish themselves and engage in profitable and sustainable business.”

Taye Atske Selassie
President of Ethiopia
“Our National Energy Compact exemplifies Ethiopia’s unwavering dedication to ensuring universal, affordable, and sustainable energy access for all. By unlocking our vast renewable resources, strengthening regional interconnections, we aim to foster inclusive growth domestically and propel Africa’s collective momentum toward ending energy poverty. Together, we are committed to building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable energy future for generations to come.”

Adama Barrow
President of The Republic of The Gambia
“The Gambia’s Energy Compact reaffirms our commitment to universal electricity access by 2030, scaling renewables, strengthening infrastructure, integrating the private sector and improving sector governance. Through partnerships, it aims to transform power supply – ensuring reliability, affordability, and sustainability for all citizens.”

John Dramani Mahama
President of the Republic of Ghana
“Ghana believes universal energy access is key to empowering businesses, reducing poverty, and creating equal opportunities. This goal can only be achieved through strong government–private sector partnerships, supported by an enabling environment for sustainable investment.”

Mamadi Doumbouya
President of the Republic of Guinea
“The Republic of Guinea reaffirms its commitment to guaranteeing, by 2030, universal access to reliable, clean, and affordable electricity, while providing sufficient capacity to support national industrialization, particularly in the mining sector, through a transparent and constructive partnership with the private sector.”

William Ruto
President of the Republic of Kenya
“Energy is a key enabler under the infrastructure component of Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. The Energy Compact anchors our commitment to achieve universal access to electricity and clean cooking and transition our grid to full reliance on clean energy by 2030.”

Sam Matekane
Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho
“Mountain winds blow, waters flow, the sun shines brightest – Lesotho, the kingdom in the sky. Universal access to renewable energy is our proud imperative. Experience elevation with agility and scale. Be part of our journey and pride. Invest in Lesotho.”

Daniel Chapo
President of Mozambique
“Mozambique is on track to achieve Mission 300 targets and consolidate our role as a regional powerhouse through export of our abundant, affordable and clean energy. We welcome support from partners to achieve universal access, promote economic growth and green industrialization, and increase regional trade and integration.”

Julius Maada Bio
President of Sierra Leone
“Our M300 Compact is the most ambitious and comprehensive energy infrastructure initiative ever developed for Sierra Leone. Powered by evidence-based solutions and data, this single plan for Sierra Leone’s energy transformation holds the greatest promise for unlocking sustainable and inclusive development for our people.”

Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé
President of the Togolese Republic
“We guarantee reliable, affordable and clean electricity for all, and access to clean cooking. This Compact massively mobilizes the private sector to accelerate our industrialization and make Togo a competitive energy hub.”

Américo d’Oliveira dos Ramos
Prime Minister, São Tomé and Principe
“Our Compact provides a forward-thinking framework to fuel a sustainable and inclusive model of economic growth for Saotomeans. We are enacting strong reforms and developing innovative business models to raise US$190 million from the private sector to finance this objective.”

Edouard Bizimana
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Burundi
“The Republic of Burundi has set ambitious targets for access to electricity and clean cooking to improve the economic and social development of its population. Private sector participation is crucial to achieving these goals.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacts:
World Bank Group Media Relations:
press@worldbank.org

African Development Bank Group:
media@afdb.org

Websites:
www.WorldBank.org
https://www.AfDB.org/

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SA honoured with UN award for obesity prevention efforts

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa has been recognised for its groundbreaking efforts in combating obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), receiving the United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force Award at the 10th Annual Friends of the Task Force Meeting in New York, in the United States.

Since 2018, these awards have recognised achievements on multisectoral action in the prevention and control of NCDs, mental health and the wider NCD-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This year, the task force is recognising organisations working to prevent and control obesity.

The recognition underscores South Africa’s leadership in addressing obesity and NCDs, setting a benchmark for other nations to follow in the fight against preventable diseases.

Accepting the award on behalf of the South African government, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi expressed gratitude and pride.  

“We are humbled to be recognised for our work in preventing and managing obesity, a challenge that demands bold, collaborative, and evidence-based action,” he said.

According to the Minister, South Africa’s National Obesity Strategy adopts a comprehensive life-cycle approach, fostering collaboration across multiple sectors, including health, education, sports, trade, civil society, and academia.  

He told delegates that the country has placed obesity and NCDs high on the national agenda.

“Breaking down silos is essential as tackling obesity requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach,” Motsoaledi said.

One of the country’s most notable achievements, according to Motsoaledi, is the introduction of the Health Promotion Levy.

“This bold policy has reduced sugar intake and set an example of regulatory courage for the region and beyond,” the Minister added.

South Africa was the first African nation to implement such a measure, demonstrating leadership in addressing obesity through fiscal policy.

The country has also integrated obesity prevention into its Adult Primary Care tool, which equips frontline health workers to identify, manage, and refer patients as part of routine care.  

“The Adult Primary Care tool uses algorithms to guide nurse and doctor clinicians to manage conditions that patients commonly present with at the primary health care level,” Motsoaledi explained.

On the global stage, South Africa has been a vocal advocate for prioritising obesity and NCDs, including the Group of 20 (G20).

“We have consistently called for stronger international action, including restricting the marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages to children, promoting healthier food environments, and safeguarding future generations from preventable diseases,” the Minister said.

Motsoaledi believes that innovation has also played a key role in South Africa’s approach.

The country has partnered with Parkrun South Africa, a free community-based initiative that encourages physical activity and can be established in rural and disadvantaged areas.  

“We foster innovation to get South Africans moving,” Motsoaledi added.

The Minister said the award is a testament to the hard work of South Africa’s health professionals, researchers, civil society, and communities.  

“This award strengthens our resolve to accelerate progress – investing in stronger data systems, scaling up community health initiatives, and supporting our frontline health workers,” he said.

Motsoaledi wrapped up his speech with a commitment to global health.  

“We accept this award with gratitude and humility, and we reaffirm our commitment to advancing obesity prevention and management, not only for South Africa but as part of our collective global responsibility.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Social grant payments to increase by R10 in October 

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, September 26, 2025

Social grant payment amounts are set to increase by R10 in the October 2025 payment cycle in line with the announcement made by the Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana in the Budget Speech earlier this year.

“The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) wishes to inform all social grant beneficiaries that social grant amounts will increase in the October payment cycle. This is in line with the announcement made by the Minister of Finance earlier this year when he tabled the Budget Speech for the 2025/26 financial year,” SASSA said in a statement on Thursday.

In tabling the Budget Speech, Godongwana announced a considerable social grant increase from 01 April 2025 and a slight increase on 01 October 2025.

READ | Social grant increases remain in place in Budget 3.0

The social grant amounts will be increased by R10 in October as follows: 
•    Old Age Grants will increase from R2310 to R2320 
•    Old Age Grants (older than 75 years) will increase from R2330 to R2340 
•    War Veterans Grant will increase R2330 to R2340
•    Disability Grant will increase from R2310 to R2320 
•    Care Dependency Grant will increase from R2310 to R2320 

SASSA CEO, Themba Matlou, welcomed the social grant increase noting that the adjustment is crucial.

“This reaffirms government’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in society, easing financial burden and cushioning them against economic hardships,” said Matlou.

He further reiterated that it is all systems go for the October payment cycle and that all eligible social grant beneficiaries will receive their grants without any interruption.

Social grant payments for October 2025 will be processed as follows:
•    Old Age Grant will be paid on 02 October
•    Disability Grants will be paid on 03 October 
•    Children’s Grants will be paid on 06 October 

–SAnews.gov.za 
 

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Qatar Participates in Meeting of AHLC for Coordinating Aid to Palestinian People

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 25, 2025

The State of Qatar participated in the ministerial meeting of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee for Coordination of International Aid to the Palestinian People (AHLC), held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The State of Qatar was represented at the meeting by HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi.

In his remarks during the event, Al Khulaifi noted that this year’s meeting was taking place under exceptional circumstances. He pointed out that the long-standing Palestinian issue and the ongoing war in Gaza continue to worsen, adding that Qatar had experienced these repercussions firsthand through the recent Israeli airstrike on its capital, which was met with clear and unequivocal international condemnation.

He added that the recent high-level international conference on the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian question and the implementation of the two-state solution confirmed a growing international consensus on the need for a lasting settlement and comprehensive peace in the Middle East that addresses security, economic, and political dimensions in an integrated way. He emphasized that the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee continues to play a key role in advancing this process.

His Excellency highlighted that the Two-State Solution Conference produced valuable outcomes, presenting a clear roadmap that included concrete proposals and practical initiatives, particularly on the economic front.

HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that continued international support for the efforts of the State of Palestine remains essential to overcoming current challenges and moving toward the establishment of a viable Palestinian state. In this context, he noted that the New York Declaration reaffirmed the commitment of member states to provide both political and financial backing for the Palestinian Authority in support of its reform agenda.

His Excellency underlined the importance of this support to strengthen institutional capacities, ensure effective implementation of reforms, and enable the Authority to carry out its responsibilities across all the occupied Palestinian territories.

Recalling the ongoing destruction in Gaza over the past two years, His Excellency said that the scale of the humanitarian catastrophe defies description and requires every possible effort to address it. He added that the repercussions of this situation have spread across the region, making it difficult to imagine progress on the Palestinian question without a fundamental solution to the crisis in Gaza.

His Excellency added that since the committee’s previous meeting, humanitarian needs in Gaza and the rest of the occupied Palestinian territories have escalated and the economic situation has significantly deteriorated. This, he said, underscores the vital role of the committee in confronting these growing humanitarian and economic challenges, as well as in addressing the consequences of the war and supporting reconstruction efforts in Gaza.  

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi praised the steps taken by international partners in this field during his remarks at the ministerial meeting of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee for the Coordination of International Assistance to the Palestinians. He highlighted in particular the recent decision of the European Commission to form a donor group for Palestine next month, which will include a dedicated mechanism for the reconstruction of Gaza.

Al Khulaifi stated that the Palestinian Authority is facing additional challenges, most notably the heavy restrictions on the transfer of Palestinian tax revenues, which are compounding financial burdens and economic difficulties.

His Excellency stressed that with regard to the West Bank, the State of Qatar’s position remains clear and consistent that any illegal settlement activity, unlawful annexation, land seizure, or attempts to alter the historic status quo at holy sites violate international law and undermine the prospects for achieving peace.

His Excellency pointed out that these practices obstruct international efforts to provide the necessary support for a lasting peace and threaten the possibility of establishing a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, a goal shared by all parties involved.

His Excellency added that since the outbreak of the war, the State of Qatar has exerted every effort to meet humanitarian and medical needs in Gaza, emphasizing that the top priority for everyone now must be to increase the flow of aid amid an extreme humanitarian and health emergency and the declaration of famine, which will be difficult to reverse.

His Excellency underscored the vital role of the United Nations in delivering aid safely and without obstacles and reaffirmed Qatar’s full support for UNRWA.

His Excellency also reiterated the State of Qatar’s unwavering commitment to supporting the efforts of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee and international partners to meet both the immediate and long-term needs and rights of the Palestinian people, contributing to the achievement of peace and security at both the regional and international levels.

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SA calls for safe passage of Gaza aid flotilla 

Source: Government of South Africa

SA calls for safe passage of Gaza aid flotilla 

The Government of South Africa, through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, has reiterated its call for the safe passage of the Global Sumud Flotilla.

The Global Sumud Flotilla is an international initiative led by civil society, launched in June of this year. The movement aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, raise awareness about the urgent needs of the Palestinian people, and emphasise the necessity of ending the conflict in Gaza.

“The government commends with appreciation the efforts of the 23 South African citizens aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla.

“We further extend our gratitude to the governments that have facilitated the flotilla’s safe passage amid complex circumstances,” the department said in a statement on Thursday.

READ | Foreign Ministers call for the protection and safety of Gaza aid flotilla

This as the news organisation, Al Jazeera, reported that Italy and Spain have decided to dispatch naval vessels this week to assist the Global Sumud Flotilla in its mission to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza.

According to Al Jazeera, the move follows repeated assaults on the Sumud Flotilla, including a drone strike that occurred early on Wednesday.

Mandla Mandela, a South African activist and grandson of former statesman Nelson Mandela, who is with the flotilla, condemned the attack in the strongest terms.

“Let me be clear, this is a non-violent mission. We carry no weapons but only food, water, medicine and hope for our brothers and sisters in Gaza. An attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla will be a violation of international law, maritime law and basic human rights,” Mandela said in a video clip, which has been shared on his social media. 

Reports indicate that explosions and unidentified drones were observed around some of the boats while communications were being jammed.

South Africa has since called international community to intensify its efforts to ensure the flotilla’s unimpeded and safe passage. 

“It is imperative that the norms of international law and international humanitarian law are upheld, and that all parties respect their obligations to protect civilian lives and humanitarian missions.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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Les dirigeants africains appellent à une action audacieuse et concertée pour faire face aux crises sanitaires mondiales et soutenir les progrès de la lutte contre le paludisme

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Les chefs d’État et de gouvernement africains ont réuni aujourd’hui les dirigeants mondiaux lors d’un événement de haut niveau en marge de la 80e Assemblée générale des Nations Unies, afin de tirer la sonnette d’alarme face à l’escalade des menaces qui pèsent sur la sécurité sanitaire mondiale.

Organisé sous le thème « Unis pour la sécurité sanitaire mondiale », cet événement conjoint a réuni le Réseau mondial des dirigeants pour la santé des femmes, des enfants et des adolescents, présidé par S.E. le Président Cyril Ramaphosa d’Afrique du Sud, et l’Alliance des dirigeants africains contre le paludisme (ALMA), présidée par le Président-Avocat Duma Gideon Boko du Botswana. Les discussions ont été modérées par la Très Honorable Helen Clark, présidente du Partenariat pour la santé maternelle, néonatale et infantile et ancienne Première ministre de Nouvelle-Zélande.

Face à l’inquiétude croissante au regard de la stagnation des progrès vers la réalisation des Objectifs de développement durable en matière de santé, les dirigeants ont appelé à des engagements financiers urgents, à des partenariats plus solides ainsi qu’à une action audacieuse et concertée afin de protéger les groupes plus vulnérables dans le monde, notamment les femmes, les enfants et les adolescents, contre des maladies évitables comme le paludisme.

« La lutte contre le paludisme devient de plus en plus complexe », a déclaré le Président-Avocat Duma Gideon Boko. « La réduction des budgets, la résistance biologique croissante, les crises humanitaires et l’impact du changement climatique contribuent à créer une convergence sans précédent de défis », a-t-il ajouté.

La baisse des financements menace les progrès

Ces dernières années ont été marquées par une érosion spectaculaire de l’aide publique au développement (APD) en matière de santé, les dirigeants africains avertissant que des programmes vitaux risquent de s’effondrer en l’absence de financement urgent et durable. Rien qu’entre 2021 et 2025, l’APD en faveur de la santé en Afrique a diminué d’environ 70 %, alors même que le creusement des inégalités, les conflits et les déplacements ont accru les besoins et la vulnérabilité des populations concernées.

S.E. le Président Cyril Ramaphosa a souligné l’impact de ces coupes budgétaires : « Des programmes essentiels d’élimination du paludisme ont été compromis. Par conséquent, des millions de personnes sont privées de soins et des décennies de progrès ont été érodées. »

Une reconstitution réussie des ressources du Fonds mondial est essentielle

Les dirigeants ont réitéré leur soutien à la 8e reconstitution des ressources du Fonds mondial de lutte contre le sida, la tuberculose et le paludisme, qui vise à lever 18 milliards de $ US lors de sa conférence de novembre 2025. Créé en 2002, le Fonds mondial a joué un rôle essentiel dans les progrès réalisés contre ces trois maladies, sauvant plus de 70 millions de vies. Les dirigeants ont souligné l’importance cruciale de cette reconstitution, non seulement pour maintenir la dynamique enclenchée jusqu’à présent, mais également pour éviter que les progrès durement acquis ne soient annihilés face à la montée des menaces.

Le président d’ALMA a lancé un appel à la mobilisation concernant la prochaine reconstitution : « J’appelle tous les pays et tous les donateurs à investir résolument dans la reconstitution des ressources du Fonds mondial. Si nous unissons nos efforts, nous sauverons 23 millions de vies du paludisme, du sida et de la tuberculose, tout en renforçant nos systèmes de santé. »

Renforcer l’appropriation nationale, la mobilisation de ressources innovantes et la production locale

Tout en soulignant l’importance de la solidarité mondiale, les dirigeants africains ont souligné que l’appropriation et la redevabilité par les Africains doivent être au cœur de la réponse aux défis. S.E. William Ruto, Président de la République du Kenya, a ainsi déclaré : « L’avenir du financement de la santé en Afrique est entre nos mains. Il est encourageant de constater que le changement est déjà en cours sur tout le continent. »

Grâce à des initiatives telles que les Conseils et Fonds nationaux d’élimination du paludisme, les pays adoptent des approches de financement innovantes pour accroître les ressources consacrées à la lutte contre la maladie. 11 pays africains ont déjà mobilisé plus de 166 millions de dollars, illustrant ainsi le potentiel de la collaboration multisectorielle.

Parallèlement, les dirigeants africains ont recommandé des innovations éprouvées, appelant l’Association internationale de développement (IDA) de la Banque mondiale à mettre en place un deuxième programme de renforcement de la lutte contre le paludisme. Le premier programme (phases I et II), mené entre 2005 et 2015, a permis d’investir des millions de dollars dans la lutte contre le paludisme, prévenant des millions de cas et sauvant des vies. Ce programme essentiel a contribué à « renforcer les systèmes de santé locaux, notamment les agents de santé communautaires, et à améliorer les systèmes de données et la surveillance », a déclaré S.E. Muhammed B.S. Jallow, vice-Président de la République de Gambie.

La récente reconstitution des ressources de l’IDA21 offre l’opportunité de mettre en œuvre un programme similaire pour relever les défis actuels. Le président d’ALMA, l’Avocat-Président Duma Gideon Boko, a déclaré : « ALMA appelle l’Association internationale de développement de la Banque mondiale à mettre en place un deuxième programme de renforcement de la lutte contre le paludisme. » 

La Dr Sania Nishtar, PDG de GAVI, a plaidé en faveur d’une appropriation nationale : « Nous sommes convaincus que ce sont les pays, et non les institutions de santé mondiales, qui devraient être au cœur de la santé mondiale. » La Dr Nishtar a mis en avant l’Accélérateur de fabrication de vaccins en Afrique de GAVI, qui, selon elle, « promeut l’autonomie de l’Afrique en matière de fabrication de vaccins. » La PDG de GAVI a également indiqué que l’alliance autour du vaccin « met en œuvre le déploiement de vaccins le plus rapide des 25 ans d’histoire de la compagnie » avec l’introduction de vaccins antipaludéens dans 23 pays africains, les premières données montrant une baisse de 13 % de la mortalité infantile toutes causes confondues dans les zones couvertes par la vaccination.

La nécessité de partenariats public-privé pour un financement durable

Les dirigeants ont appelé à la création d’un Accélérateur de santé basé sur un partenariat public-privé afin de faire face à la baisse des financements traditionnels. Le Président-Avocat Duma Gideon Boko a encouragé ses homologues à « voir plus grand et à élargir notre champ d’action afin de mobiliser davantage de ressources pour répondre aux défis sanitaires cruciaux. »

Ce partenariat permettra de générer de nouveaux investissements et de progresser vers la couverture sanitaire universelle. L’accélérateur devrait s’appuyer sur des partenariats avec le secteur privé, les fondations philanthropiques, les grandes fortunes individuelles et la diaspora, tout en renforçant les engagements nationaux.

« Nous avons besoin d’un accélérateur de santé basé sur les partenariats public-privé qui permettra à l’ensemble de la société de progresser vers les ODD grâce à des investissements durables de grande valeur », a déclaré le président d’ALMA.

Cet appel aux partenariats public-privé a été approuvé par d’autres dirigeants, le vice-Président de la République de Gambie déclarant que ces partenariats « peuvent nous aider à fournir un financement durable à ce moment critique et mener notre continent vers la prospérité. »

La grande impulsion contre le paludisme

Il y a quelques mois, le Centre africain pour le contrôle et la prévention des maladies (CDC Afrique) a dévoilé une stratégie audacieuse visant à réimaginer en profondeur le financement de la santé sur le continent, dans un contexte financier mondial instable et en constante évolution. Cette dynamique a été amplifiée à Abuja par le lancement de la « Grande impulsion » pour en finir avec le paludisme début septembre, plaçant l’élimination du paludisme au cœur du programme de santé et de développement de l’Afrique. Forts de ce constat, les dirigeants africains réunis à l’Assemblée générale des Nations Unies ont appelé à un changement de paradigme en matière d’investissements afin de soutenir la lutte contre le paludisme et les défis sanitaires plus vastes que connaît le continent.

Face aux crises qui se chevauchent, cet événement conjoint a témoigné d’une détermination renouvelée pour agir de manière urgente, innovante et concertée. S.E. le Dr Jean Kaseya, directeur général du CDC Afrique, a exhorté les dirigeants à continuer de transformer ces crises en opportunités afin de « commencer à obtenir des financements durables, à construire notre propre système de données qui soit la propriété du continent, à fabriquer nos propres vaccins et médicaments, et à mettre en place un système de surveillance solide. L’Afrique est désormais à la pointe du progrès mondial. »

Alors que les pays africains s’orientent vers une plus grande appropriation de leurs systèmes de santé et de leurs programmes de développement, Professeure Senait Fisseha, défenseure des droits en matière de santé sexuelle et reproductive, a encouragé les dirigeants à « veiller à ce que ces droits reflètent nos valeurs, nos convictions, ce que nous croyons être juste et nécessaire pour nos populations » afin de « créer un continent où chaque femme, chaque fille et chaque enfant puisse s’épanouir pleinement ».

« Ensemble, saisissons cette occasion. Prouvons que des systèmes de santé résilients sont la pierre angulaire de la dignité, de la sécurité et de la prospérité », a déclaré S.E. le Président William Ruto de la République du Kenya en conclusion de son discours, faisant écho aux propos du président d’ALMA, le Président-Avocat Duma Gideon Boko, qui a déclaré : « Nous pouvons faire de l’élimination du paludisme une réalité. Nous pouvons offrir un avenir sain aux femmes, aux bébés, aux enfants et aux adolescents. Il est temps d’agir. »

Distribué par APO Group pour African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA).

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African Leaders Call for Bold, United Action to Tackle Global Health Crises and Sustain Malaria Progress

Source: APO – Report:

African Heads of State and Government convened global leaders on Wednesday at a high-level event on the margins of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, sounding the alarm on escalating threats to global health security.

Convened under the theme “Uniting for Global Health Security”, the joint event brought together the Global Leaders Network for Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health, chaired by H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, and the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), chaired by President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana. Discussions were moderated by the Rt Hon. Helen Clark, chair of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health and former prime minister of New Zealand.

Amid growing concern over stagnating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals for health, leaders called for urgent financial commitments, stronger partnerships, and bold, united action to protect the world’s most vulnerable, including women, children, and adolescents, from preventable diseases such as malaria.

“The fight against malaria is becoming increasingly complex,” said President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko. “Shrinking budgets, rising biological resistance, humanitarian crises, and the impact of climate change are all contributing towards creating a perfect storm of challenges,” he added.

Funding declines threaten progress

Recent years have seen a dramatic erosion of official development assistance (ODA) for health, with African leaders warning that life-saving programmes risk collapse in the absence of urgent and sustained financing. Between 2021 and 2025 alone, ODA for health in Africa declined by an estimated 70%, even as widening equity gaps, conflict, and displacement have expanded both needs and vulnerability.

H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the impact of these cuts, “essential programmes to eliminate malaria have been compromised. This leaves millions without care and erodes decades of progress that has been made so far.”

A successful Global Fund Replenishment is vital

Leaders reiterated support for the upcoming 8th replenishment of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, which aims to raise US$18 billion at its November 2025 conference. The Global Fund, established in 2002, has been central to progress against the three diseases, saving more than 70 million lives. Leaders stressed that the upcoming replenishment is critical, not only to sustain momentum but also to prevent a reversal of hard-won gains amid rising threats.

The ALMA chair issued a rallying call on the upcoming replenishment, “I call on all countries and donors to invest boldly in the Global Fund replenishment. If we all come together, we will save 23 million lives from malaria, AIDS and TB, while strengthening our health systems.”

Strengthening national ownership, innovative resource mobilisation and local manufacturing

While underscoring the importance of global solidarity, the African leaders noted that African ownership and accountability must be at the centre of the response, with H.E. President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya saying “the future of Africa health financing lies in our own hands. Encouragingly, across the continent, change is already underway.”

Through initiatives like national End Malaria Councils and Funds, countries are embracing innovative financing approaches to expand the pool of resources for malaria, with 11 African countries already having mobilised over US$166 million, illustrating the power of multi-sectoral collaboration. 

At the same time, African leaders recommended tried and tested innovations, calling for the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) to set up a 2nd Malaria Booster Programme. The first malaria booster program (phase I and phase II) between 2005 and 2015 saw millions invested in malaria control and millions of cases prevented and lives saved. This vital programme helped “reinforce local health systems, such as community health workers, and enhance data systems and surveillance” said H.E. Muhammed B.S Jallow, vice president of the Republic of The Gambia.

With the recent IDA21 replenishment, there’s an opportunity to deliver a similar programme to address the challenges we face today, with the ALMA chair, President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko saying, “as ALMA, we are calling on the World Bank International Development Association to establish a second Malaria Booster Programme.” he said.

A push for national ownership was made by Dr Sania Nishtar, CEO of GAVI, who said “we strongly believe countries and not global health institutions should be at the centre of global health.” Dr Nishtar highlighted GAVI’s African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator which she said “promotes African self-reliance in vaccine manufacturing.” The GAVI CEO also shared that the vaccine alliance is “implementing the fastest vaccine rollout in Gavi’s 25-year history” with the introduction of malaria vaccines across 23 African countries, with early evidence showing a 13% drop in all-cause child mortality in vaccinated areas.

The need for public-private partnerships to deliver sustainable financing

Leaders called for the establishment of a Public-Private Partnership Health Accelerator to respond to declining traditional funding, with President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko encouraging fellow leaders to “think bigger and cast our net wider to mobilise even more resources to respond to the critical health challenges.”

This partnership will deliver new investments and drive progress toward universal health coverage. The accelerator is expected to leverage partnerships with the private sector, philanthropic foundations, high networth individuals and the diaspora, whilst reinforcing domestic commitments.

“We need a private-public partnership health accelerator that will drive whole-of-society progress towards the SDGs through sustainable high-value investments,” shared the ALMA chair.

This call for public private partnerships was endorsed by fellow leaders, with the vice president of the Republic of the Gambia saying these partnerships “can help us deliver sustainable financing at this critical moment and lead our continent to prosperity.”

The Big Push against Malaria

Earlier this year, the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) unveiled a bold strategy to transform health financing across the continent amidst the volatile and ever-evolving global financing landscape. This momentum was amplified in Abuja with the launch of the “Big Push” to End Malaria in early September, placing malaria elimination at the heart of Africa’s health and development agenda. Building on this, African leaders at the UN General Assembly called for a paradigm shift in investments to sustain the fight against malaria and broader health challenges across the continent.

The joint event signalled renewed determination to confront overlapping crises with urgency, innovation, and unity, with H.E Dr Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa-Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, urging leaders to continue to turn these crises into opportunities to “start to raise sustainable financing, to build our own data system owned by the continent, to start to manufacture our own vaccines, medicines, and to build strong surveillance system. Now Africa is leading the world.”

As African countries moves towards greater ownership of our health systems and development agenda, Professor Senait Fisseha, a champion of sexual and reproductive health rights encouraged leaders to “to ensure it reflect our values, what we believe and is right, and is needed for our people” so that “we can create a continent in which every woman, every girl, every child can live to her fullest potential.”

“Together, let us rise to this moment. Let us prove that resilient health systems are the cornerstone of dignity, security and prosperity,” said H.E. President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya at the conclusion of his remarks, echoing ALMA chair, President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko who said “we can make malaria elimination a reality. We can deliver a healthy tomorrow for women, babies, children and adolescents. The time to start is now.”

– on behalf of African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA).

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PRO ALLY Partners with Word Café Podcast to Host Echoes of Dark Gold, A Special Storytelling Session on Nigeria’s Oil and Gas (1903 – 1958) History

Source: APO – Report:

In commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1st, PRO ALLY (https://PROALLYWorld.com/), in collaboration with the Word Café Podcast, is proud to present Echoes of Dark Gold, a special storytelling session that revisits the untold stories and historical foundations of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry from 1903 to 1958.

Oil has long been at the heart of Nigeria’s economic and political landscape, yet its beginnings remain largely hidden from public consciousness. This initiative seeks to illuminate that history, sparking dialogue and reflection on the journey that has shaped Nigeria’s present and future.

Through this storytelling experience, Echoes of Dark Gold will transport audiences into the early days of exploration, the first discoveries, and the complex dynamics that positioned oil as the “dark gold” of the nation. Beyond recounting history, it will also provide a platform for meaningful conversations on legacy, national identity, and the future of resource governance in Nigeria.

Speaking on the collaboration, Tunbosun Afolayan, Managing Director, PRO ALLY stated: “Nigeria’s independence anniversary is not only a time for celebration but also reflection. By partnering with Word Café Podcast, we aim to bring history closer to the people, helping us understand how the past continues to shape our collective destiny.”

The event will hold on October 1st, 2025, as a virtual event, offering listeners in Nigeria and beyond the chance to engage with an immersive narrative woven with historical insights, cultural reflections, and thought-provoking perspectives.

PRO ALLY and Word Café Podcast invite all Nigerians and friends of Nigeria around the world to join in this commemorative session as the nation marks its 65th year of independence.

To be invited, you can register your interest here: https://apo-opa.co/4pI5uzq

– on behalf of PRO ALLY.

About PRO ALLY:
PRO ALLY is a sustainability communications consulting company for the energy and extractive sectors. With a vision to democratise knowledge and opportunities, we remain committed to supporting our clients to champion progressive causes, simplify communication, and amplifying the impact of their work for socio-economic development.

About Word Café Podcast:
The Word Café Podcast is a storytelling and thought-leadership platform that amplifies voices, explores history, and sparks conversations that matter.

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