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. 

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.

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.

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).

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President condemns heinous murder of Madlanga Commission witness

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Mr Marius van der Merwe, a Brakpan-based security industry member and former Ekhurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department official who recently testified before the Madlanga Commission.

Mr Van der Merwe was shot multiple times in full view of his family outside their Brakpan home on Friday evening, 5 December 2025.

The President extends his deep condolences to the family of Mr Van der Merwe and wishes them strength for their recovery from a deadly trauma.

President Ramaphosa said: “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 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.

President Ramaphosa said: “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.

President Ramaphosa urges law enforcement agencies to undertake a thorough investigation and to ensure that the perpetrators face justice.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Eight Arab and Islamic countries issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern over Israeli statements about opening the Rafah crossing in one direction, allowing Gaza residents to leave for Egypt

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, December 5, 2025

The foreign ministers of the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Indonesia, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Republic of Turkey, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern over Israeli statements about opening the Rafah crossing in one direction, allowing Gaza residents to leave for Egypt.

The ministers emphasize their complete rejection of any attempts to displace the Palestinian people from their land. They stress the necessity of full adherence to the plan of US President Donald Trump, which includes opening the Rafah crossing in both directions, guaranteeing freedom of movement for residents, and ensuring that no one in the Gaza Strip is forced to leave. They further underscore the need to create suitable conditions for Palestinians to remain on their land and participate in building their homeland, within a comprehensive vision for restoring stability and improving their humanitarian situation.

The ministers reiterate their appreciation for President Trump’s commitment to establishing peace in the region and emphasize the importance of moving forward with the full implementation of his plan without delay or obstruction, in order to achieve security and peace and consolidate the foundations of regional stability. In this context, they stress the need to fully establish a ceasefire, end the suffering of civilians, ensure the unrestricted and unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, initiate early recovery and reconstruction efforts, and create the conditions for the Palestinian Authority to resume its responsibilities in Gaza, thereby establishing a new phase of security and stability in the region.

The ministers affirm their countries’ readiness to continue working and coordinating with the United States and all relevant regional and international parties to ensure the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2803 and all related resolutions, and to provide a conducive environment for achieving a just, comprehensive, and sustainable peace in accordance with international law and the two-state solution. This would lead to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967 borders, including Gaza and the West Bank, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Joint Statement by the Group of Facilitating States Following the Conclusion of the Mediation Round in Doha Between the Government of Colombia and the Self-Proclaimed EGC Group

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | 5 December 2025

The Group of Mediator Countries (Qatar, Norway, Spain, and Switzerland) today issued the following joint statement upon the conclusion of a round of mediation, held in Doha, between the Government of Colombia and the self-designated EGC concerning the Process for the Demobilization of the (a)EGC and Peacebuilding with the People in the Territories.

After the first two rounds of mediation, we are pleased to announce that the Government of Colombia and the self-designated EGC have taken important steps towards peace. The parties have signed a “Commitment to Peace” that reflects compromise, responsibility, and commitment to alleviate the conditions for the civilian population and end armed conflict. The declaration represents a step towards the demobilization of the self-designated EGC and peacebuilding.

We commend the parties for their constructive engagement and willingness to compromise, in working towards a sustainable solution through dialogue.

This process aims to improve the lives and wellbeing of those communities affected by the conflict – families who have been exposed to violence, young people who deserve opportunity, and victims who seek truth, justice, reparations, and guaranties of non-repetition. It also provides the parties with a path towards ending the armed conflict and building sustainable peace.

Still, there will be many hurdles and challenges to overcome. We will continue in our role as mediators in order to assist the parties make further steps to consolidate trust among themselves and work towards peace. The implementation the commitments reached so far by the parties will require sustained discipline, transparency, and trust.

We hope to work with all stakeholders—civil society, institutions, and international partners in supporting this process and help ensure its success.

National Basketball Association (NBA) Africa Announces Five Prize-Winning Startups at its Second Accelerator Demo Day

Source: APO

  • Reborn (Morocco), Fitclan (Egypt), Athlon Technology (Egypt), Atsur (Nigeria) and Songdis (Nigeria) Win Top Prizes, Including Financial Support and Opportunity to Join Carnegie Mellon University Africa’s Business Incubation Program
  • OpenAI Joins as Official Partner of NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator Demo Day

NBA Africa (www.NBA.com) today announced the five prize-winning startup companies from the second edition of NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator (https://TripleDoubleAccelerator.NBA.com), which the league launched last year to support the continent’s technology ecosystem and the next generation of African entrepreneurs. 

The five winning companies – 1) Reborn (Morocco), 2) Fitclan (Egypt), 3) Athlon Technology (Egypt), 4) Atsur (Nigeria) and 5) Songdis (Nigeria) – were awarded financial support and the opportunity to join Carnegie Mellon University Africa’s (CMU-Africa) 12-month Business Incubation Program as part of its Innovation Hub, which helps African tech startups transform proof-of-concept prototypes and preliminary market assessments into scalable, market-ready products and services (valued at up to $70,000). The top three companies also each received $10,000 in Application Programming Interface (API) credits and an immersion day with the OpenAI engineering team at OpenAI’s headquarters.

The 10 finalists, which were selected from more than 700 applicants across 32 African countries, pitched their products to a panel of international industry leaders at a Demo Day today at CMU-Africa in Kigali, Rwanda. The judges were CMU-Africa Director Dr. Conrad Tucker, OpenAI Africa Lead Emmanuel Lubanzadio, and ServiceNow Africa Vice President & Managing Director Cheick Camara and Head of Strategy & Operations Nikki van Gasse. 

The Demo Day was supported by CMU-Africa, ServiceNow and OpenAI.  ALX Ventures once again served as the Official Operating Partner of the program in its second year.  Together, the partners are contributing distinct expertise to strengthen the support for early-stage African startups.

Below are the five winning companies:

  • 1st place: Reborn (https://RebornSportsTech.com) (Morocco), which offers comprehensive performance indicators that give athletes deep insights into their physical condition and on-field performance, essential for identifying strengths, areas for improvement, and optimizing overall performance, was awarded $25,000 in cash, the opportunity to join CMU-Africa’s Business Incubation Program, $10,000 in API credits, and an exclusive immersion day with the OpenAI engineering team at OpenAI’s headquarters.
  • 2nd place: Fitclan (https://Fitclan.co) (Egypt), a digital fitness hub that leverages a flexible subscription model for individuals and corporate clients, was awarded $15,000 in cash, the opportunity to join CMU-Africa’s Business Incubation Program, $10,000 in API credits, and an exclusive immersion day with the OpenAI engineering team at OpenAI’s headquarters.
  • 3rd place: Athlon Technology (https://AthlonTechnology.com) (Egypt), which aims to leverage accessible mobile technology and AI to provide video analysis for amateur and budget-constrained sports teams while addressing a market gap with a user-friendly, hardware-light solution, was awarded $5,000 in cash, the opportunity to join CMU-Africa’s Business Incubation Program, $10,000 in API credits, and an exclusive immersion day with the OpenAI engineering team at OpenAI’s headquarters.
  • 4th place: Atsur (www.Atsur.art) (Nigeria), which leverages blockchain technology to promote investment in African art and support artists and art communities, was awarded $2,500 in cash and the opportunity to join CMU-Africa’s Business Incubation Program.
  • 5th place: Songdis (www.Songdis.com) (Nigeria), which provides comprehensive digital distribution and services tailored for African independent artists and labels, was awarded $2,500 in cash and the opportunity to join CMU-Africa’s Business Incubation Program.

“We continue to be amazed by the creative, talented and passionate entrepreneurs who participate in NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator,” said NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi.  “The 10 finalists and five prize-winning companies differentiated themselves through their bold and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of sport and entertainment in Africa.  The support they receive from this program will help them scale their products and make a lasting impact on the continent and globally.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).

Contact:
Chumani Bambani
NBA Africa Communications
cbambani@nba.com
+27 65 548 1031

About NBA Africa:
NBA Africa is an affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a global sports and media organization with the mission to inspire and connect people everywhere through the power of basketball.  NBA Africa conducts the league’s business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and has opened subsidiary offices in Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya.  The league’s efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through youth and elite development, social responsibility, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, NBA Stores, the BAL, and more.

NBA games and programming are available in all 54 African countries, and the NBA has hosted three sold-out exhibition games on the continent since 2015.  The BAL, a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that concluded its fifth season in June 2025.  Fans can follow @ NBAAfrica on Facebook and YouTube, @ nbaafricaofficial on Instagram, @ NBA_Africa on X, and @ theBAL on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

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