Category: MIL-OSI

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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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Limpopo man sentenced to life in prison for rape

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, September 26, 2025

The Seshego Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo on Thursday sentenced Poulis Ngwepe (44) to life imprisonment for the rape of a 13-year-old in the Ga-Ramoshoana village in the Matlala policing area.

The court heard that on the night of 10 August 2020, the victim went outside her house to fetch a bucket when the accused spotted and followed her. 

He grabbed the victim and covered her mouth with his hands before taking her to his residence, where he raped her and threatened to kill her if she disclosed the ordeal.

After being released, the victim reported the incident to her grandmother, who immediately alerted the police. 

A case of rape was registered at Matlala South African Police Service (SAPS) and the matter was referred to the Seshego Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for further investigation.

“The meticulous and dedicated investigation by Sergeant Victor Mokhudu led to the accused being arrested and charged with rape,” the SAPS said in a statement. 

“The accused was initially granted bail during his court appearances but was ultimately found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape of a minor,” the police said.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Major General Jan Scheepers, welcomed the sentence imposed by the court, saying it reflects the seriousness of the offense and the justice system’s commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society. – SAnews.gov.za

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Acting President pays respects to Premier Mabuyane after mother’s passing

Source: Government of South Africa

Acting President Paul Mashatile has visited Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane’s home to pay his respects after the passing of his mother, Nolandile Mabuyane.

Mama Mabuyane, affectionately known as Mambathane, passed away on 16 September 2025, at the age of 79, after a long illness.

“On behalf of government and the people of South Africa, and in my personal capacity, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to you and your family on the passing of your beloved mother,” said the Acting President on Thursday. 

Acting President Mashatile said her legacy was evident not just in her family but also in the numerous lives impacted indirectly through Premier Mabuyane’s leadership in the province and his public service to the citizens.

“The strength, compassion and dedication with which you have served the people of the Eastern Cape and the nation speak volumes about the woman who raised you.“

The Acting President remembered her as a woman of faith and dignity. 

“Her warmth, humility and quiet strength were qualities that not only enriched your family but also anchored her community in love and principle. The pain of losing a mother is immeasurable.” 

The Acting President described a mother as “the cornerstone of the family, the source of wisdom, and the quiet force behind our strength”.

“Though she may no longer be with you in the physical, the values she embodied will live on through the lives of those she nurtured and the legacy she has left behind, including in the Premier as Leader of this province,” he added.

“In this moment of sorrow, we pray that the Almighty grants you and your family comfort, peace, and the courage to face the days ahead. May you take solace in the beautiful memories you shared with her, and may her soul find eternal rest.

“May her legacy be eternal and may she continue to rest in peace and power,” he added. 

The Premier’s mother will be laid to rest on Saturday, 27 September 2025, at her home in the Deberha Locality, eNgcobo. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Ekuvukeni Water Supply Project to improve lives of KZN communities

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has officially handed over the completed works of the Ekuvukeni Water Supply Project in KwaZulu-Natal’s Alfred Duma Local Municipality.

Addressing community members, traditional leaders, and government stakeholders at the Ekuvukeni Sportsfield at the handover on Thursday, Hlabisa emphasised the constitutional importance of water as a basic human right.

“Section 27 of the Bill of Rights affirms that every person in South Africa has the right to sufficient water. This right is not negotiable. It is a human right that government must deliver,” he said.

The Ekuvukeni Water Supply Project – implemented by the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) and funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) – marks a significant milestone in addressing long-standing water infrastructure challenges in Wards 30 to 36 of the Alfred Duma Local Municipality. 

The project benefits over 14 500 households, reaching approximately 75 655 people.

Hlabisa provided an overview of the completed works, which include the installation of over 1.5 km of bulk pipeline and 8.4 km of reticulation pipelines. 

In addition, 52 valve chambers and 25 communal standpipes were installed, along with multiple yard connections. 

The project also involved the partial refurbishment of the Oliphantskop Water Treatment Works and the Petronella Booster Pump Station, and an 8-million-litre (ML) steel reticulation tank was constructed to improve water storage capacity.

He also highlighted the socio-economic impact of the project, including the employment of 32 local labourers, with a focus on youth and women and the appointment of eight local subcontractors through the Project Steering Committee, with contracts exceeding R6.1 million.

The Minister also announced the installation of communal standpipes in schools and villages, improving access to clean water. 

“This project is not just about pipes and pumps. It is about people,” said Hlabisa. 

“It means that a grandmother in Uitval no longer walks kilometres to fetch water. It means that children in Etholeni go to school with clean uniforms and better health.”

However, he acknowledged remaining challenges, including water losses due to leaks and illegal connections, three production boreholes nearing completion, seasonal raw water shortages and limited reservoir capacity and the funding gaps, with R18 million still required for full system stabilisation. 

To address these issues, a Section 63 intervention agreement was signed on 19 August 2025 between CoGTA, the Department of Water and Sanitation, Umngeni-uThukela Water, and the uThukela District Municipality. 

This agreement empowers Umngeni-uThukela Water to manage water infrastructure in the district for the next five years.

“This infrastructure was built for you, your children, and generations to come. You must see yourselves as the first line of defence – guarding these facilities against vandalism, theft, and misuse. When you rise together as a united community, you protect what you have and ensure lasting change,” said Hlabisa.

Hlabisa concluded the handover ceremony by congratulating the Alfred Duma Local Municipality on being selected as a recipient of the Intermediary Cities Grant under the Intermediate City Municipalities (ICM) Programme. 

This grant supports smaller urban areas in planning and implementing development projects to overcome challenges such as spatial inequality. 

According to the department, it also funds infrastructure investments, improves governance and financial management, and promotes sustainable urban development in crucial but often overlooked cities. 

The event was attended by KwaZulu-Natal CoGTA MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the Mayor of Alfred Duma Local Municipality Zama Sibisi, the Mayor of uThukela District Municipality Inkosi Ntandoyenkosi Shabalala, and representatives from the Department of Water and Sanitation, uThukela District Municipality, Umngeni-uThukela Water, MISA, and local leadership. – SAnews.gov.za

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Líderes africanos apelam a uma acção ousada e unida para enfrentar a crise sanitária mundial e manter o progresso na luta contra a malária

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Os chefes de Estado e Governos africanos reuniram hoje os líderes globais num evento de alto nível, à margem da 80ª Assembleia Geral das Nações Unidas, com o intuito de fazer soar o alarme sobre as crescentes ameaças à segurança sanitária global.

Convocado sob o tema “Unidos para a segurança sanitária global”, o evento conjunto reuniu a Rede de Líderes Globais para a saúde de mulheres, crianças e adolescentes, presidida por S. Exa o Presidente Cyril Ramaphosa da África do Sul, e a Aliança de Líderes Africanos contra a Malária (ALMA), presidida pelo Presidente Advogado Duma Gideon Boko do Botswana. Os debates foram moderados pela Rt Hon. Helen Clark, Presidente da Parceria para a saúde materna, neonatal e infantil e Ex Primeira-Ministra da Nova Zelândia.

No meio da crescente preocupação com a estagnação do progresso rumo aos Objectivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável para a saúde, os líderes apelaram a compromissos financeiros urgentes, parcerias mais fortes e acções ousadas e conjuntas para proteger os mais vulneráveis do mundo, incluindo mulheres, crianças e adolescentes, de doenças preveníveis como a malária.

“A luta contra a malária está a tornar-se cada vez mais complexa”, afirmou o Presidente Advogado Duma, Gideon Boko. “Orçamentos reduzidos, a crescente resistência biológica, as crises humanitárias e o impacto das alterações climáticas estão a contribuir para a criação duma tempestade perfeita de desafios”, acrescentou.

A diminuição de financiamentos ameaça o progresso

Nos últimos anos, testemunhamos uma erosão drástica da assistência oficial ao desenvolvimento (AOD) para a saúde, e os líderes africanos estão a avisar que os programas que salvam vidas correm o risco de entrar em colapso devido à falta de financiamento urgente e sustentado. Só entre 2021 e 2025, a AOD para a saúde em África caiu cerca de 70%, mesmo com o aumento das disparidades de equidade, conflitos e deslocações, que aumentaram tanto as necessidades como a vulnerabilidade.

S. Ex.ª o Presidente Cyril Ramaphosa enfatizou o impacto destes cortes: “programas essenciais para eliminar a malária foram comprometidos. o que deixa milhões de pessoas sem tratamentos e destrói décadas do progresso alcançado até o momento”.

Uma reposição bem-sucedida do Fundo Global é fundamental

Os líderes reiteraram o apoio à próxima 8ª reposição do Fundo Global para o Combate à SIDA, Tuberculose e Malária, que visa angariar US$ 18 mil milhões no congresso de Novembro de 2025. O Fundo Global, criado em 2002, tem sido essencial para o progresso na luta contra as três doenças, o que já salvou mais de 70 milhões de vidas. Os líderes salientaram que a próxima reposição é crucial, não só para manter o ritmo, mas também para evitar a reversão das conquistas arduamente conquistadas no meio a ameaças cada vez maiores. O presidente da ALMA emitiu um apelo à mobilização sobre a próxima reposição: “Apelo a todos os países e doadores para que invistam ousadamente na reposição do Fundo Global. Se todos nos unirmos, salvaremos 23 milhões de vidas da malária, SIDA e tuberculose, e ao mesmo tempo fortaleceremos os nossos sistemas de saúde”.

Reforço da apropriação, a nível nacional, mobilização de recursos e produção local inovadoras

À medida que enfatizaram a importância da solidariedade global, os líderes africanos observaram que a apropriação e a responsabilização africanas devem estar no âmago da resposta, com S. Exa, Presidente William Ruto, da República do Quénia, a afirmar que “o futuro do financiamento da saúde em África está nas nossas mãos. É encorajador constatar que, em todo o continente, a mudança já está em curso”.

Através de iniciativas como os Conselhos e fundos nacionais para a eliminação da malária, os países estão a adoptar abordagens inovadoras de financiamento para aumentar o conjunto de recursos para a malária, com 11 países africanos já a ter mobilizado mais de US$ 166 milhões, o que ilustra o poder da colaboração multissectorial. 

Ao mesmo tempo, os líderes africanos recomendaram inovações testadas e comprovadas, e pediram à Associação Internacional de Desenvolvimento (AID) do Banco Mundial a criação dum 2º Programa de Reforço da Malária. O primeiro programa de reforço da malária (fase I e fase II), entre 2005 e 2015, resultou em milhões investidos no controlo da doença e na prevenção de milhões de casos e vidas salvas. Este programa vital ajudou a “reforçar os sistemas de saúde locais, como os profissionais da área da saúde, e a melhorar os sistemas de dados e a vigilância”, afirmou S. Exa Muhammed B.S Jallow, Vice-Presidente da República da Gâmbia.

Com a recente reposição do IDA21, temos uma oportunidade de implementar um programa semelhante para enfrentar os desafios que enfrentamos hoje, com o Presidente da ALMA, o Presidente Advogado Duma Gideon Boko, a afirmar: “como ALMA, estamos a apelar à Associação Internacional de Desenvolvimento do Banco Mundial para que estabeleça um segundo Programa de Reforço da Malária”, disse.

Um impulso para a apropriação nacional foi feito pela Dra. Sania Nishtar, CEO da GAVI, que afirmou: “Acreditamos firmemente que os países, e não as instituições mundiais de saúde, devem estar no centro da saúde global”. A Dra. Nishtar destacou o Acelerador Africano para o Fabrico de Vacinas da GAVI, que, segundo ela, “promove a autossuficiência africana no fabrico de vacinas”. A CEO da GAVI partilhou ainda que a aliança de vacinas está a “realizar a implementação mais rápida da vacina nos 25 anos de história da GAVI”, com a introdução de vacinas contra a malária em 23 países africanos, com evidências iniciais que apresentam uma queda de 13% na mortalidade infantil por todas as causas nas áreas vacinadas.

A necessidade de parcerias público-privadas para fornecer financiamento sustentável

Os líderes solicitaram o estabelecimento dum Acelerador de Saúde com Parceria Público-Privada para responder ao declínio do financiamento tradicional, com o Presidente Advogado Duma Gideon Boko a encorajar os outros líderes a “pensar mais além e aumentar a nossa rede de contactos para mobilizar ainda mais recursos para atender aos sérios desafios de saúde”.

Esta parceria irá gerar novos investimentos e impulsionar o progresso rumo à cobertura universal de saúde. Espera-se que o acelerador potencialize as parcerias com o sector privado, fundações filantrópicas, indivíduos de património elevado e a diáspora, enquanto reforça ao mesmo tempo os compromissos nacionais. “Precisamos dum acelerador de saúde com uma parceria público-privada que impulsione o progresso de toda a sociedade rumo aos Objectivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável  ODS através de investimentos contínuos de alto valor”, partilhou o presidente da ALMA.

Este apelo a parcerias público-privadas recebeu o apoio dos outros líderes, e o Vice-Presidente da República da Gâmbia afirmou que estas parcerias “podem nos ajudar a fornecer financiamento contínuo neste momento crítico e levar o nosso continente à prosperidade”.

O Grande Impulso contra a malária

No início deste ano, o Centro Africano de Controlo e Prevenção de Doenças (Africa CDC) revelou uma estratégia ousada para transformar o financiamento da saúde em todo o continente, em meio a um cenário financeiro global volátil e em constante evolução. Este impulso foi amplificado em Abuja com o lançamento do “Grande Impulso” para eliminar a malária no início de Setembro, o que coloca a eliminação da malária no centro da agenda de saúde e desenvolvimento de África. Com base neste facto, os líderes africanos na Assembleia Geral da ONU solicitaram uma mudança de paradigmas em investimentos para apoiar a luta contra a malária e contra os desafios de saúde cada vez maiores no continente.

O evento conjunto assinalou uma determinação renovada para enfrentar crises simultâneas com urgência, inovação e unidade, com S.  Exa, Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-Geral dos  Centros Africanos de Controlo e Prevenção de Doenças, a exortar os líderes a continuarem a transformar estas crises em oportunidades para “começar a angariar financiamento contínuo, construir o nosso próprio sistema de dados pertencente ao continente, começar a fabricar as nossas próprias vacinas e medicamentos e a criar um sistema de vigilância forte. Agora a África está a liderar o mundo”.

À medida que os países africanos avançam rumo a uma maior apropriação dos nossos sistemas de saúde e agenda de desenvolvimento, a Professora Senait Fisseha, defensora dos direitos à saúde sexual e reprodutiva, incentivou os líderes a “garantir que esses direitos reflectem os nossos valores, aquilo em que acreditamos, o que é certo e o  seu pleno potencial”.

“Juntos, vamos erguer-nos para este momento. Vamos provar que os sistemas de saúde resilientes são a pedra basilar da dignidade, da segurança e da prosperidade”, disse S.  Exa. O Presidente William Ruto, da República do Quénia, concluiu o seu discurso, reiterando o Presidente da ALMA, o Presidente Advogado Duma Gideon Boko, que afirmou: “Podemos tornar a eliminação da malária uma realidade. Podemos proporcionar um futuro saudável às mulheres, bebés, crianças e adolescentes. O momento para agir é agora”.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA).

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Zimbabwe’s Deputy Mining Minister to Speak at African Mining Week (AMW) as Country Emerges as Lithium Powerhouse

Source: APO – Report:

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Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development Polite Kambamura has confirmed his participation as a speaker at the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 conference, Africa’s premier platform for mining investment and policy dialogue. With his participation, Deputy Minister Kambamura is well-positioned to highlight Zimbabwe’s sector reforms, investment opportunities and downstream beneficiation drive.

Zimbabwe’s mining sector is undergoing a period of growth and transformation, with mineral exports up 27% year-on-year in the first half of 2025 and full-year revenues projected at $6.2-$6.5 billion. The country is targeting over 7% sector growth this year, underpinned by strong gold and coal performance, alongside rapid expansion of its lithium industry. Backed by more than $1 billion in Chinese investment and new processing facilities at Bikita and Sandawana, Zimbabwe is positioning itself as Africa’s leading lithium producer.  

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting http://sales@energycapitalpower.com .

Key mining projects in the country include integrated resource group Tharisa’s Karo Platinum Mine, set for 2025 commissioning, and platinum group metals (PGMs) miner Zimplats’ new Mupani mine, targeting 2.2 million tons of production annually. With rising investor confidence and sustained capital inflows, Zimbabwe is strengthening its role as one of Africa’s fastest-growing mining markets. Recent policy reforms – including the gazetting of a new Mines and Minerals Bill and the launch of a digital mining cadaster system – are further enhancing transparency, regulatory oversight and investor certainty.

With capital expenditure projected at $600 million this year and formal mining employment set to expand by 3%, Zimbabwe offers significant opportunities across lithium, gold, PGMs, coal and diamonds. The country’s emphasis on beneficiation, infrastructure expansion and regulatory modernization is expected to unlock long-term growth and strengthen its competitiveness on the global stage. Gold has delivered a particularly robust performance, with deliveries to Fidelity Gold Refinery up nearly 46% in the first half of 2025, driven largely by artisanal and small-scale miners and record global prices. Meanwhile, lithium concentrate exports rose 30% in the same period, underscoring Zimbabwe’s resilience to price volatility and its emerging role as a key supplier of critical minerals.

As such, AMW 2025 provides a strategic platform for Deputy Minister Kambamura to showcase these opportunities, engage with global financiers and outline the country’s commitment to value addition, transparency and sustainable sector growth.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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President congratulates newly elected leader of Malawi 

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, September 26, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his warm congratulations to Professor Peter Mutharika on his electoral victory in the Republic of Malawi’s general elections.

The President wished Professor Mutharika, who won the elections on 16 September 2025, every success as he prepares to undertake the weighty responsibility conferred upon him by the people of Malawi. 

“South Africa looks forward to continuing its close collaboration with Professor Mutharika’s administration, working in concert to strengthen the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between our two nations. This partnership is essential for the mutual benefit of our peoples and for the advancement of regional integration,” the President said on Thursday.

He further commended the people of Malawi for their active and peaceful participation in the electoral process, which reaffirms their steadfast commitment to democratic principles, thereby setting a positive example for the region.

In the same spirit, President Ramaphosa expressed his profound appreciation to President Lazarus Chakwera for his dedicated leadership. 

“During his tenure, President Chakwera meaningfully strengthened bilateral cooperation between our countries and was a committed advocate for regional unity. 

“His contributions to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), notably during Malawi’s chairmanship of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, were instrumental in promoting peace, development, and prosperity across the continent.

“South Africa eagerly anticipates working with the incoming Government and the people of Malawi to advance our shared aspirations for the wellbeing of our citizens and the broader African family,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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SA companies to showcase their products at Anuga International Trade Fair

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, September 26, 2025

South African agro-processing companies from six provinces will get the opportunity to attract the attention of international food importers from across the world when they showcase their products at the Anuga International Trade Fair in Cologne, Germany.

In total, 30 South African companies are expected to take part at the Anuga International Trade Fair from 4-8 October 2025.

The theme is: “Sustainable Growth”, which calls for concerted efforts aimed at creating a balance between economic prosperity and the environmental protection.

The biennial event is regarded as the world’s largest and most important food and beverage fair. It attracts distributors, retailers, importers and wholesalers of food and beverages from all continents.

In the 36th edition of Anuga in 2023, more than 7 900 companies from 118 countries exhibited, and more than 140 000 trade visitors from 200 countries flocked to the event.

The participation of the South African companies in Anuga has been made possible by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) through its Export and Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) Scheme.

One of the objectives of the scheme is to facilitate market entry for South African products and services into new markets.

According to the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, the assistance provided to the companies to seek export markets for their products across the globe is in line with the country’s export market diversification market initiatives.

“This is part of the South Africa’s government’s contribution towards ensuring that export-led industrialisation aimed at spurring economic growth in the country is stimulated.

“Our total efforts are aimed at increasing South Africa’s capacity for exporting diversified and value-added goods and services to various global markets,” Godlimpi said. – SAnews.gov.za