Category: MIL-OSI

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Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Technical Education

Source: APO


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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, and Minister of Education and Technical Education Mr. Mohamed Abdel Latif.

Spokesman for the Presidency Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy stated that  the meeting reviewed several ministry work files. The Minister of Education and Technical Education offered a presentation on the execution status of teaching Programming and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as part of the curricula for the first year of secondary school, starting from the current academic year 2025/2026. In this regard, the minister highlighted that the inclusion of this subject is part of the State’s vision for digital transformation and educational development, and meets the requirements of the technological revolution and its associated changes in the labor market. 

The minister pointed out that the demand for the Japanese “QUREO” Programming and AI platform has exceeded all expectations, with over 236,000 students completing the full training content. He explained that secondary stage graduates who study the subject receive an accredited international certificate in programming from Hiroshima University in Japan. In the same context, the Minister added that the Programming and AI subject will also be introduced in Technical Education starting from the academic year 2026/2027.

The meeting also reviewed the Ministry of Education’s efforts to develop the technical education system through the expansion of Applied Technology Schools, which reached 115 schools during the 2025/2026 academic year, and linking study with practical training through partnerships with the private sector. This is in addition to signing international partnerships to grant graduates accredited international certificates, providing them with job opportunities in both the local and international markets. President El-Sisi stressed the necessity of exerting maximum effort to elevate the scientific and professional level of technical education graduates, in light of the growing needs of the labor market.

The meeting also touched on the developments of the Japanese schools in Egypt, where President El-Sisi gave directives to increase their number to 500 schools over the next five years. The Minister also reviewed the results of his field tours to follow up on the educational process in various governorates. He noted the Ministry’s success in addressing accumulated challenges, including eliminating the shortage of teachers in core subjects, reducing student density in classes to less than 50 students, and ensuring the timely delivery of textbooks.

The Minister of Education and Technical Education also reviewed the developments in applying the Egyptian Baccalaureate Certificate system. He outlined the multiple opportunities and diverse tracks it offers for taking exams, which suit students’ aptitudes and abilities. He also pointed out that this system ends the single-chance exam of the general secondary system, and highlighted the increasing student interest in the Baccalaureate system, with the enrollment rate exceeding 90% of the total number of students in the first phase of secondary school this current academic year.

President El-Sisi emphasized the necessity of firm action against cheating cases and directed that the penalty be tightened for anyone proven to be involved in cheating in the General Secondary examinations.

Furthermore, the President directed the continuous exertion of all necessary effort and the taking of appropriate measures to care for teachers and provide them with continuous incentives, including improving their economic status. President El-Sisi reiterated the importance of continuing to enforce discipline and consolidate positive moral values within the educational system, non-tolerance of any lapse in this matter, and the taking of urgent and decisive accountability measures towards any transgression or misconduct.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

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IPID welcomes 20-year sentence imposed on EMPD officer

Source: Government of South Africa

IPID welcomes 20-year sentence imposed on EMPD officer

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has welcomed the 20-year sentence imposed on an Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officer for the murder of his partner in 2023.

On 21 September 2023, at around 13:00, two Constables from EMPD went to fetch their colleague, Constable Robert Ngobeni from home on their way to work.

Upon arrival at 469 Canary Street, Lekaneng Section in Tembisa, they found the gate locked. A neighbour alerted the two officers that he had heard gunshot sounds coming from the accused’s room the previous night, which prompted them to enter the premises by jumping the fence.

Bloodstains were discovered at the doorstep of Ngobeni’s room. After a child provided the officers with keys to unlock the burglar door, the officers discovered the body of deceased, Constance Phalane, on the bed with multiple gunshot wounds. 

A four-year-old with a gunshot wound to the upper right shoulder and the accused, Constable Ngobeni, was lying on the floor in a pool of blood, with his firearm close to his reach.

Emergency services were summoned to the scene and the child and accused were transported to various medical facilities for medical attention. The accused was placed under police guard.

A subsequent investigation revealed a history of domestic violence between the accused and the deceased.

The South Gauteng High Court sentenced the accused to 15 years imprisonment for murder and 15 years for attempted murder. 

The court further ruled that the 10-year sentence for attempted murder will run concurrently with the 15-year murder sentence. Therefore, the deceased will serve 20 years imprisonment. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin

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SADC Media Awards recognise journalistic excellence

Source: Government of South Africa

SADC Media Awards recognise journalistic excellence

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has called on Southern Africa’s journalists to take ownership of the region’s story, saying the SADC Media Awards remain one of the most powerful platforms for shaping a shared regional identity.

Speaking at the 2025 SADC Media Awards dinner — where the 2026 competition was also launched — Morolong said the awards, established in 1996, continue to recognise media work that strengthens regional cooperation and integration.

“The story of Southern Africa cannot be left to be told by others. It must be told by us, in our voices, through our own lens and lived experiences. Through the awards, we honour excellence… and the crucial role journalists play in shaping narratives that strengthen our regional identity and solidarity,” he said at the ceremony in Pretoria on Friday. 

Morolong stressed that the awards celebrate depth, accuracy and integrity rather than sensationalism.

“The awards judge entrants not by the number of headlines they provoke, but by the depth, accuracy and integrity of their craft.

“The media professionals we celebrate today have dedicated hours, weeks and even months investigating matters of public interest.”

He said such commitment is vital in an era “dominated by disinformation and misinformation”, adding that the awards honour journalists not only as storytellers but as guardians of truth and connectors of citizens across borders.

“Through their words, images and voices, they document the collective growth and development of our people.

“By celebrating their work, we acknowledge the importance of authentic storytelling in strengthening democracy and promoting mutual respect among our peoples.”

Morolong added that every story reflecting cooperation in energy, transport, water, trade or security “serves as a thread in the greater fabric of regional unity”.

Winners reflect on the power of authentic journalism

This year, 29 entries were submitted for regional adjudication, with South Africa contributing four across all categories.

BBC Radio journalist Mpho Lakaje, who won the Radio Category (Regional), said the recognition was encouraging.

“It energises one to keep going and to do more,” he told SAnews, urging emerging journalists to “stick to the basics of journalism” and maintain authenticity.

Lakaje freelances for outlets including BBC Radio Africa and eNCA, and is the creator of Against All Odds with Mpho Lakaje, which aired over 200 episodes between 2012 and 2016.

Dikeledi Molobela from SAnews, winner of the Print Category (National), said the award was deeply affirming.

“Journalism can be a tough and often thankless profession, so being recognised in this way truly means a lot.

“Part of my job is to cover The Presidency, and I’ve had the privilege of reporting on President Ramaphosa’s strong commitment to peace, stability and cooperation in our region. It’s always a pleasure to tell those stories and help keep our people informed about the work being done to build a safer, more united SADC.”

Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) communicator Rinae Nemaungani, a second-time award recipient, was honoured in the Photography Category. She first won in 2023 as an intern in the GCIS Radio Unit.

“A few years ago, I was honoured to stand behind this very podium receiving a SADC Media Award in the Radio Category, and now to be recognised again, this time in Photography, is something I’m deeply grateful for,” she said.

Winning in a new category reminded her that “growth never stops”.

“For me, this journey shows how powerful storytelling can be, no matter the medium,” Nemaungani said.

The Television Category winner was Reitumetse Sankola from the SABC.

2026 competition officially open

Morolong officially opened entries for the 2026 SADC Media Awards, which close in February next year. The competition is open to journalists from all SADC member states.

Since 1996, the awards have recognised excellence in print, photo, television and radio journalism that advances regional cooperation and integration. — SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets Japanese Education Experts

Source: APO


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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with a group of Japanese education experts currently in Egypt. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, and Minister of Education and Technical Education Mr. Mohamed Abdel Latif.

Spokesman for the Presidency Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy stated that President El-Sisi commenced by welcoming the Japanese experts. The President emphasized the importance of the partnership with Japan in supporting the educational process in Egypt, as part of the continuous commitment to strengthening educational relations with Japan and benefiting from its pioneering experience in developing education. 

President El-Sisi also lauded the role of the Japanese experts in joint educational projects, particularly their contribution to supporting the educational process within the Japanese schools in Egypt. The President expressed his appreciation for the Japanese character and its outstanding capabilities, discipline, and high efficiency.

The Japanese experts expressed their deep gratitude to President El-Sisi for his support and keenness on the success of the Japanese schools experience in Egypt, and for the tangible positive results achieved. They reaffirmed their commitment to establishing the foundations of the Japanese education system in Egypt, including teacher training and curriculum development. They noted that the eight-year evaluation of the project, which currently includes 69 schools, has been extremely positive. They praised the efforts and competence of the Egyptian teachers who received the necessary training in Japan and Egypt.

The Japanese delegation also said they are looking forward to increasing the number of classes and educational stages within the framework of the Egyptian-Japanese Schools project in Egypt, as well as the appointment of new, highly competent teachers after they pass the necessary training to qualify them to work in this important educational project. They reiterated the Japanese side’s keenness to enrich the educational experience in Egypt and provide all support to ensure the success of the Japanese educational projects in Egypt. 

The delegation of experts pointed out that the Japanese experience also aims to equip students with the necessary skills for the labor market and related training, helping them to identify the appropriate career path and contributing to preparing a strong, globally competitive generation.

President El-Sisi stressed Egypt’s commitment to benefiting from leading global educational experiences, in line with the state’s vision for building the Egyptian citizen. The President assured the significance of increasing the number of Japanese schools and Japanese education experts working in Egypt to achieve a qualitative educational leap. The President reaffirmed that the State will work to overcome any obstacles to ensure the success of the Japanese schools project in Egypt and boost its impact.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

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Doha Forum 2025: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Says Qatar Believes Justice is Fundamental Pillar for Safeguarding World Peace, Entrenching Stability

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, December 06, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani affirmed that the State of Qatar believes that justice is not merely a political aspiration, but a fundamental pillar for safeguarding international peace and entrenching stability.

In his address at the opening session of the 23rd edition of the Doha Forum 2025, held this morning, His Excellency stated that Qatar’s policies are driven by a conviction that words must be matched by actions, that principles must guide practice, and that the country’s international responsibilities must be upheld impartially and in service of humanity and human dignity.

He added that, in line with this approach, the State of Qatar continues to play an active mediating role-one of the cornerstones of its foreign policy-by initiating channels of dialogue, providing credible negotiation platforms, and facilitating understandings between disputing parties.

His Excellency highlighted that Qatar’s track record of successful mediation efforts, and the confidence the international community places in its role in achieving peace, demonstrate that mediation is neither a political luxury nor a utilitarian choice for Qatar, but a deeply rooted doctrine pursued with sincerity-grounded in the belief that genuine peacebuilding begins with inclusion rather than exclusion, and through expanding common ground rather than deepening division.

He emphasized that this approach was clearly reflected in the achievement reached yesterday, as the State of Qatar, in cooperation with its partners Norway, Spain, and Switzerland, succeeded in securing a significant breakthrough between the Government of Colombia and the self-designated “EGC” group. The agreement, he noted, offers a genuine opportunity to enhance the safety and dignity of Colombians and to provide conflict-affected communities with a tangible glimmer of hope after years of violence.

His Excellency explained that the agreement also opens the door to an organized political process aimed at disarmament, combating the production and trafficking of narcotics, and building sustainable peace within an agreed framework capable of restoring stability to conflict-stricken areas.

He stressed that this progress reaffirms that sincere and responsible mediation can protect civilians and pave the way for a peace grounded in responsibility, trust, and the commitment of all parties to what best serves their peoples.

His Excellency underscored that the world does not need more promises; but rather justice practiced by all without double standards, responsibility borne collectively without favoritism, and courage that transforms words into action.
Highlighting the role of the forum, he noted that the Doha Forum stands as a leading global platform bringing together policymakers, thought leaders, and experts from across the world, serving as an influential space for dialogue on major global challenges and the formulation of practical solutions.

He stated that this year’s theme -Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress- 
captures a reality evident to all: that the divide between stated commitments and actual implementation is growing, and that justice is increasingly absent from the workings of international law in a world where interests overshadow principles and force supplants legal norms.

His Excellency warned that the world is witnessing an unprecedented escalation of crises-not due to a lack of resources or knowledge, but due to the absence of accountability and the continuation of conflicts without just solutions, posing a direct threat to international peace and security.

He pointed out that when crises are managed through the logic of force rather than law, and when aggressors evade accountability, the international order begins to resemble a system built on promises that remain unfulfilled.

He further noted that successive tensions have revealed that crisis management at its bare minimum, or the preservation of temporary international consensus without addressing root causes, is no longer a viable option. Crises that are not resolved through fair and lasting solutions inevitably return more complex, extending beyond their borders; temporary agreements do not halt the movement of history but merely postpone its obligations.

In this regard, he stressed that only just solutions can build sustainable peace and prevent the perpetuation of conflict and division.

His Excellency warned that the absence of accountability remains one of the gravest flaws in the international system-manifest in the region through the plight of the Palestinian people under flagrant violations of international law, and the tragedies unfolding in Sudan, including massacres and grave abuses. These all underscore that achieving justice and protecting rights are indispensable conditions for preserving regional stability and preventing fragmentation.

Speaking on Syria, His Excellency stated that after harsh years marked by the absence of justice, the Syrian people are moving on a path they hope will lead to recovery-within a framework of transitional justice that reinforces cohesion and rejects sectarianism, paving the way for a peace that turns the page on the past and is rooted in participation and justice.

He noted that the challenges facing the region are intertwined with global trends characterized by a serious erosion of respect for international law, the excessive use of force without accountability, and the weakening of international institutions. These factors, he said, are creating a global environment marked by rising risks and diminishing public trust in the world order.

In this context, he affirmed that the world today must rebuild confidence in legal norms, establish a fairer international order, and strengthen the role of communities and humanitarian organizations as genuine partners in shaping a more stable and inclusive future. Durable peace, he stressed, cannot be achieved through symbolic resolutions but through collective action that places human dignity at the centre of all policymaking.

Concluding his address, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed his hope that the Doha Forum will serve as a platform for deepening cooperation among governments, communities, and humanitarian organizations in pursuit of a more just and secure future for all humanity. 

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Qatar–EU Joint Statement: Launch of Negotiations for a Qatar–EU Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA)

Source: Government of Qatar

Qatar–EU Joint Statement: Launch of Negotiations for a Qatar–EU Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA)

Doha, December 06, 2025

Following the meeting between HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and HE the European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas on the sidelines of the Doha Forum, the State of Qatar and the European Union announced the launch of negotiations process for a Qatar–EU Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA). This process is a future-oriented and ambitious cooperation effort marking an important milestone in bilateral  relations. 

This announcement underscores the strength of Qatar-EU partnership and offers mutually beneficial opportunities for both sides to further expand and deepen cooperation.

Recognizing Qatar’s prominent role, particularly its key mediation efforts in support of peace and conflict resolution  across several crises, and the EU’s principled commitment to safeguarding the rules-based international order, the two parties reaffirmed their shared determination to work more closely to uphold regional peace, prosperity and security.

Through the upcoming negotiation process they will explore new avenues for enhanced cooperation in priority areas of mutual interest.

The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar and the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to deepening their partnership and further elevating their dynamic and mutually reinforcing relations amidst an increasingly complex regional and international landscape.

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President Ramaphosa sends condolences to the Van der Merwe family

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa sends condolences to the Van der Merwe family

President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his deep condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Marius van der Merwe, who recently testified before the Madlanga Commission.

Van der Merwe was a Brakpan-based security industry member and former Ekhurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department official. He was shot multiple times in full view of his family outside their Brakpan home on Friday evening, 5 December 2025.

The President has extended his deep condolences to the family of Van der Merwe and has wished them “strength for their recovery from the deadly trauma”.

“While our law enforcement agencies establish the circumstances leading to this heinous act, I am appalled and saddened by this attack on a former public servant, who recently served the cause of justice and integrity by testifying at the Madlanga Commission,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa established the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, better known as the Madlanga Commission, in July 2025.

“My thoughts are with the deeply traumatised family, who came under attack last night. 

“They faced death in circumstances that suggest Van der Merwe’s brave testimony angered elements in our society who want to undermine the rule of law and set back the quest for truth and consequences in the fight against corruption.

“Amid this trauma, we must remain resolute to end corruption and bring to justice those who have done wrong and are plotting to do more.

“As government, we will redouble our efforts to protect whistleblowers, including witnesses before the Madlanga Commission and the Commission itself, as they serve the nation with bravery in the face of criminal threats,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa has urged law enforcement agencies to undertake a thorough investigation and to ensure that the perpetrators face justice. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Police launch manhunt for suspects who fatally shot Witness D

Source: Government of South Africa

Police launch manhunt for suspects who fatally shot Witness D

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a manhunt for the suspects who shot and killed “Witness D”, who had testified at the Madlanga Commission. 

The National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, will meet and brief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga on investigations into the murder of Witness D. Madlanga is the chair of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System. 

Masemola will utilise the opportunity to also discuss efforts to improve and enhance safety and security measures for all role-players at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. 

At the crime scene outside the home of Witness D, where he was fatally shot, various units of the SAPS, including Ballistics and crime scene experts, Crime Intelligence officers and members of the Serious and Violent Crime Unit, worked until the early hours of this morning, combing the scene for available material evidence. 

“Police can thus confirm that evidence gathered at the scene confirms an AK47 automatic rifle was used in the commission of the crime.

“According to a preliminary investigation, Witness D arrived at his home just after 20:30 with his wife and as he was about to open the gate, he was shot and sustained wounds to his upper body. 

“He was certified dead at the scene. His wife, who was a passenger in the car, escaped unharmed and it should be noted that nothing was taken from Witness D, seeing that his firearm, cell phone and wallet were still in his possession,” the police said.

A case of murder has been registered and police have launched a manhunt for the hit orderer and the hitmen who shot and killed Witness D. Police are also looking for the murder weapon. 

Masemola has also ordered the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) co-chair, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, to urgently convene a NATJOINTS meeting over the weekend to discuss and look at ways of improving the safety and security of commission officials, as well as all witnesses. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Qatar Announces Signing of "Commitment to Peace" by Colombian Government, Self-Designated EGC Following Two Rounds of Mediation in Doha

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, December 05, 2025

The State of Qatar announced today the signing of a “Commitment to Peace” by the Colombian government and the Self-Designated EGC Group, following two rounds of mediation in Doha.

The signing ceremony was attended by HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaif. Also present from international partners were HE State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Norway, Andreas Kravik; HE Assistant Foreign Minister of the Swiss Confederation, Tim Enderlin; and HE Assistant Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Spain, Alberto Ucelay.

The ‘Commitment’ reflects consensus, responsibility, and a commitment to alleviating the suffering of the civilian population, ending the armed conflict, and paving the way for both parties to build sustainable peace.
In this context, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the State of Qatar’s full appreciation for the positive spirit demonstrated by both parties during the two rounds of mediation, stressing the need for all parties to commit to working towards the success of the peace process.

The Ministry also expressed the State of Qatar’s gratitude to its international partners, particularly the Kingdom of Norway, the Kingdom of Spain, and the Swiss Confederation, for their continued efforts that contributed to the signing of the pledge and strengthened the path of dialogue and sustainable peace in Colombia.

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The International Confederation of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul presented its 2024 Annual Report in Brazil: 30 million people served and 18,000 projects throughout the world

Source: APO

  • The 2024 Report declares a total of 18,000 social projects and a global investment of €1.65 billion.
  • The year was marked by the growth in initiatives and the international organization’s response to new social realities.

The International Confederation of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) (www.SSVPGlobal.org) presented on 5 December in Rio de Janeiro its Annual Report, a document reflecting the global dimension of its social action in 155 countries. During the presentation, the impact of the 18,000 projects developed and 5,000 special programmes which have made it possible to serve 30 million people with a social investment of of €1.65 billion was highlighted.

The event began with a speech by Marcio Da Silva, President of the National Council of Brazil, who welcomed those in attendance and introduced a video on the organization’s work in the country.

Next, Wellington Dias, Minister for Development and Social Assistance, Family and the Fight against Hunger, recalled his own experience with the Vincentians in his youth and emphasised that ‘lifting someone out of hunger is not the end, but the beginning of a journey that requires education, skills and real opportunities’. He stressed the importance of working together for this common cause and, on behalf of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, conveyed his gratitude to the SSVP ‘for every helping hand, every plate of food and every gesture that restores dignity in a world marked by inequality’.

After that, Juan Manuel Buergo Gómez, International President General, explained the main content of the 2024 Report, emphasizing the human value impregnating the Society’s actions: “The Report reflects our social and economic activity, but does not quantify what’s most important: brotherly, personal and friendly care for those in need, irrespective of their religion, ideas or origins. This support is at the heart of our mission.” He then announced the launch of the Global SSVP Foundation as a tool for raising funds for its cooperation projects, development aid and emergency actions.

After he spoke, a video was shown of the MAPFRE Foundation Social Awards, which recognized Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) as the best international social organization for its entire history.

Presence and social action throughout the world

Representatives from every continent shared their perspective of the Society’s work in their territories, all in line with the data provided in the report.

The International President General highlighted the main indicators from 2024: 155 countries benefited from SSVP’s actions thanks to the commitment of 1,500,000 volunteers and 800,000 members. 18,000 social projects and 5,000 special initiatives were carried out throughout the year with €1.65 billion earmarked for social action, which made it possible to support 30 million people around the world.

The countries in the American regions were presented by Márcio da Silva, President of the National Council of Brazil, who underscored the scope of SSVP’s work in 36 nations on the American continent. He underlined how home visits are complemented with a solid network of charitable dining rooms, food banks, shelters, education programs and socioeconomic reinsertion projects which help thousands of underprivileged families. Likewise, he highlighted the importance of tools between the countries with the most resources and those with the least.

Afterwards, Teresa Ryan, President of the National Council of Ireland, talked about the European reality where SSVP is present in 33 countries with projects meeting material as well as emotional, educational and community needs. She spotlighted the work being done in the area of mental health, fighting loneliness, individual support and programs dedicated to those most vulnerable.

From Hong Kong, Maurice Yeung, International Territorial Vice-President, presented the initiatives undertaken in 34 countries in Asia and the MENA region. He pointed out the importance of projects aimed at education and child and youth development, reinforcing community health and being able to immediately respond to natural disasters, along with training and employment programs which foster sustainable social development.

The presentation dedicated to the African continent was offered by Urbanus Kinuthia, Assistant Vice-President General, who talked about the daily support being provided for at-risk families and children, especially orphans, in the 42 countries where SSVP is present. He emphasized how, even in contexts with very limited resources, the Society’s actions provide education for development, food, emotional support and hope for those most in need.

Finally, the representative of Oceania presented the work done in 10 countries where the Conferences alternate serving the homeless and distributing food with elderly care programs and the management of charity shops to fund community projects. He particularly focuses on the work in the islands and remote areas where the members’ commitment compensates for the geographic difficulties.

Throughout the event, these testimonies offered a comprehensive view of the SSVP global mission which is based on local presence, closeness to those in need and the capacity to provide responses that adapt to each social reality.

Projects that make a difference

The presentation concluded with a selection of initiatives mentioned in the Report which illustrate how the organization adapts its actions to the realities in each territory. The network of charity pharmacies in the United States, for example, guarantees access to medication for thousands of people withour medical insurance, with more than 237,000 prescriptions filled each year thanks to the joint work of volunteers and pharmacy personnel.

As far as housing and homelessness, SSVP is a part of the Famvin Homeless Alliance and collaborates on the “13 Homes” Campaign, an international initiative that encourages social projects aimed at supporting the homeless. This campaign offers solutions involving social housing, temporary and permanent shelters, as well as rehabilitation and rebuilding projects following emergency situations. Thanks to this joint effort, the “13 Homes” Campaign has already reached more than 10,800 people and has made it possible to create more than 2,700 homes in different countries.

In Brazil, Solidarity Mobile Hygiene Units provide toilets and showers in addition to listening to and supporting people experiencing homelessness, creating places of trust and personal reconstruction.

The daily work done by the Conferences in Peru with the distribution of food and guidance and support for families in need is complemented with activities for children that reinforce community cohesion. Thousands of miles away, the construction and renovation of hygiene facilities in Sri Lanka has allowed several communities to tangibly improve living conditions.

The commitment to education is reflected in many different ways such as the floating school in Benin designed to guarantee continued schooling in neighborhoods that are isolated due to flooding, and training programs for university students driven by Vincentian young people in Syria, which open up the doors to job opportunities in a context of great social fragility.

Also standing out are deeply transformational initiatives in Oceania and Asia. The Home in Fiji offers food, housing and therapeutic care to people without family support, making it a place for dignity and safety. In the Philippines, the Mangyan Mission Centre accompanies isolated indigenous communities, providing them with a place to stay as well as showcase their culture and generate their own resources.

In Europe, national meetings were organized in France gathering volunteers and the people they serve, which reflects the importance of human bonding as the core of all Vincentian service.

These initiatives, along with thousands of projects developed around the world, prove the capacity of SSVP to offer specific, adapted and friendly solutions all while maintaining person-to-person support at the core of its global mission.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The International Confederation of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.

More press information and interview management:
María Moreno
PR Manager
+34 680 383 665
maria@after-agency.com

Adriana Benito
PR Supervisor
+34 690 91 34 88
adriana@after-agency.com

About the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul:
The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) is a civil, international humanitarian and charity association which was formed by Catholic laymen and women. Founded in Paris in 1833, it is present in 155 countries and boasts 800,000 members and 1,500,000 volunteers. Its assistance reaches more than 30 million people every single day.

SSVP in Africa develops social projects aimed at families and children, especially orphans who receive education, food and care on a daily basis.

Recognized as a special charity association of public benefit, SSVP has earned UNE-EN ISO 9001:2015 quality certification for all of its locations. It is a founding member of the Volunteering Platform of Spain and is registered with the NGO for Development Register (ONGD-AECID).

Media files

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