Presidente da República (PR) Promete Combate Cerrado ao Tráfico e Consumo de Drogas no País

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Presidente da República, Daniel Chapo, anunciou que o Governo vai intensificar o combate ao tráfico, à venda e ao consumo de drogas no país, com particular atenção às escolas, casas de pasto e locais de diversão identificados como pontos de venda e consumo de substâncias ilícitas, vulgarmente conhecidos como “bocas de fumo”.

Para o efeito, o Chefe do Estado defendeu o reforço da capacidade de intervenção das instituições competentes, incluindo o Ministério Público (MP), os tribunais, as Forças de Defesa e Segurança (FDS), o Serviço Nacional de Investigação Criminal (SERNIC) e a Polícia da República de Moçambique (PRM), nos seus diferentes ramos.

“Devemos reforçar a capacidade de intervenção das instituições competentes no combate a este mal, desde o Ministério Público, os tribunais, as Forças de Defesa e Segurança, o SERNIC e a Polícia da República de Moçambique, nos seus diversos ramos, devendo intervir nos locais de venda e consumo de drogas, vulgarmente conhecidos como bocas de fumo”, afirmou.

Chapo sublinhou que o Estado não pode demonstrar qualquer complacência perante a existência destes espaços, defendendo a sua identificação, a responsabilização dos envolvidos e a aplicação das sanções criminais previstas na lei.

“Mas é sobre a escola que recai hoje a minha mais profunda inquietação. A escola deveria ser o templo do saber e o refúgio seguro dos nossos filhos e das nossas filhas, mas está a ser assediada por redes de droga”, declarou.

O Presidente da República manifestou preocupação com o impacto do consumo de drogas entre crianças e adolescentes, considerando que o fenómeno está a comprometer os seus sonhos e perspectivas de futuro.

“Esta é uma linha vermelha que não consentiremos que seja ultrapassada. A protecção da criança é um imperativo constitucional e um dever sagrado do Estado moçambicano, que temos o privilégio de liderar”, afirmou.

“Por cada escola, por cada criança, por cada adolescente e por cada escola ameaçada, responderemos com toda a autoridade da lei e toda a força da Nação”, acrescentou.

O Chefe do Estado destacou igualmente a importância da participação de especialistas do Brasil e de Portugal na conferência, considerando que o intercâmbio permitirá a partilha de experiências e boas práticas no domínio da prevenção e do combate à droga.

Chapo falava durante a abertura da Conferência Nacional sobre Prevenção e Combate à Droga, que decorre sob o lema “Prevenção e combate à droga: novas tendências, seus desafios e respostas inovadoras”.

Na ocasião, alertou para a crescente capacidade de adaptação das organizações criminosas, que recorrem às novas tecnologias, às plataformas digitais e aos meios de pagamento electrónicos para expandir e dissimular as suas operações.

“O mercado ilícito de drogas transforma-se continuamente, e as organizações criminosas demonstram uma capacidade crescente de adaptação, servindo-se das novas tecnologias, das plataformas e dos meios de pagamento digitais para ampliar e dissimular as suas operações”, afirmou.

Segundo o Presidente da República, a dimensão do fenómeno manifesta-se igualmente no aparecimento de novas substâncias psicoactivas e no aumento do número de consumidores, incluindo menores de idade.

Perante este cenário, defendeu uma actuação cada vez mais preventiva, coordenada e estratégica por parte dos Estados, de modo a responder às novas ameaças e a ajustar as medidas de intervenção à evolução do fenómeno.

Nos últimos anos, as autoridades competentes têm constatado a introdução ilícita de quantidades significativas de drogas no país, bem como a existência de unidades de produção de substâncias com efeitos estimulantes e sedativos, incluindo anfetaminas e metanfetaminas.

As autoridades têm igualmente identificado a utilização de diferentes locais para o desenvolvimento de actividades ilícitas, incluindo pequenas machambas instaladas em zonas remotas, como estratégia para dificultar a detecção e a fiscalização por parte das entidades competentes.

“Este cenário torna imperioso reforçarmos a nossa capacidade de vigilância a todos os níveis e denunciarmos cada vez mais às autoridades os comportamentos e as actividades suspeitas”, afirmou Chapo.

O Governo manifesta particular preocupação com a entrada e circulação, em Moçambique, de drogas consideradas altamente nocivas para a saúde humana, com destaque para a cocaína e a heroína.

A diversidade de substâncias apreendidas confirma, segundo o Chefe do Estado, o crescimento e a complexidade do mercado ilícito de drogas, que deixou de se limitar ao trânsito de estupefacientes e passou a abranger também a produção e o consumo no território nacional.

Chapo apontou as características geográficas de Moçambique, nomeadamente a extensa linha costeira, com cerca de 2.700 quilómetros, a posição estratégica no oceano Índico, a dimensão das fronteiras terrestres e a ligação aos principais corredores económicos da África Austral como factores que, embora favoreçam a integração regional e o desenvolvimento, colocam desafios adicionais ao controlo da entrada de drogas no país.

“Por esta razão, as rotas de tráfico mais visadas são as vias marítimas e terrestres, utilizadas para a entrada e circulação destas substâncias em Moçambique e na região”, explicou.

Acrescentou que os traficantes recorrem igualmente à via aérea para o transporte de drogas, situação que torna mais exigentes a fiscalização das fronteiras e o controlo da circulação de pessoas e bens.

Como parte das medidas preventivas, o Presidente da República recomendou a criação de núcleos antidroga nas escolas públicas e privadas, tomando como referência a experiência desenvolvida na cidade de Maputo.

PGR DEFENDE REFLEXÃO SOBRE IMPACTO DO TRÁFICO

Por sua vez, o Procurador-Geral da República, Américo Letela, enalteceu a participação dos especialistas estrangeiros na conferência, considerando que o encontro constitui uma oportunidade para aprofundar a reflexão sobre o tráfico e o consumo de drogas.

“A realização desta conferência decorre da necessidade de reflectirmos, de forma aberta e responsável, sobre o tráfico de drogas, que, pelas suas consequências, ultrapassa a dimensão económica”, afirmou.

SAÚDE REGISTA AUMENTO DE CASOS ASSOCIADOS AO CONSUMO DE DROGAS

Entretanto, o ministro da Saúde, Ussene Isse, manifestou preocupação com o impacto do consumo de drogas na saúde pública, considerando tratar-se de um problema de dimensão mundial, com particular relevância para Moçambique.

Segundo o governante, o número de pessoas atendidas nas unidades sanitárias do país por alterações de comportamento associadas ao consumo de drogas e de outras substâncias registou um aumento significativo.

“Em 2024, atendemos cerca de 23.400 pessoas com alterações de comportamento devido ao consumo de drogas. Em 2025, atendemos 28.800 pessoas”, revelou.

Os dados apresentados pelo ministro apontam para um aumento de aproximadamente 23% no número de pessoas atendidas entre 2024 e 2025.

O governante referiu ainda uma evolução da proporção de casos de mortalidade associados ao consumo de drogas, de 5%, em 2007, para 30%, em 2025. (AIM)

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Portal do Governo de Moçambique.

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Children are being left behind in the current Ebola disease outbreak response

Source: APO

  • The Ebola disease outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo is disproportionately impacting children, with the youngest children facing the highest risk of death.
  • Children are also being left behind in the research of innovative medical tools.
  • Ongoing and future studies on Bundibugyo virus, the virus driving this outbreak, must include children.

Children are paying a devastating price in the Ebola disease outbreak unfolding in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). While children face a higher risk of death from Ebola than adults, they also represent a significant proportion of the people affected by the current outbreak.

According to Epicentre, Médecins Sans Frontières’ (MSF’s) epidemiological research centre, nearly one in four confirmed Ebola cases in North Kivu province is a child. MSF is deeply concerned by the disproportionate impact of the disease on children and calls for more attention to their specific vulnerabilities, in both the medical and research response.

While Ebola remains a deadly disease for all age groups, the youngest children face the highest risk of death. In North Kivu, children have been particularly affected by the current outbreak: 24% of confirmed cases are among children under five years of age, compared with 13% in Ituri province, while infants under one year old account for 13% of cases, compared with 6% in Ituri.

At the Ebola treatment centre (ETC) in Butembo, North Kivu, MSF teams have observed that the case fatality rate among children was particularly high. Between June and September 2026, 24 out of 30 children – most of whom were under the age of five – died from the Bundibugyo virus in this ETC alone. The rapid progression of the disease in communities and limited access to specialised care at health facility level are contributing to such alarmingly high fatality rates.

“General health facilities often lack the specialised expertise, equipment, and infection prevention and control measures needed to identify and safely manage suspected cases,” explains Stéphanie Hoffmann, project coordinator for MSF in Butembo. “Most of the paediatric cases admitted in our ETC in Butembo, North Kivu, over the summer, had already been hospitalised for other illnesses in several facilities during the days or weeks before their admission. Their family members did not have Ebola themselves, and it is highly likely that these children contracted the disease inside healthcare facilities.”

Strengthening infection prevention and control measures in health facilities, ensuring the availability of personal protective equipment, and reinforcing the training of healthcare workers in non-Ebola health centres across at-risk areas are critical to maintaining essential services while preventing healthcare-associated transmission.

While efforts have been made to reduce the emotional toll of isolation on children in ETCs, including the creation of visibility areas where parents can see and communicate with their hospitalised children, being admitted to an ETC remains a deeply distressing experience for young patients. Children may be too young to understand their situation or meet their own basic needs.

To help address this situation, MSF has recruited and trained caregivers who provide daily support and comfort to children inside several MSF-supported ETCs while wearing full personal protective equipment. These caregivers come from diverse backgrounds, including, but not limited to, being Ebola survivors. Today, 13 caregivers are supporting children at the Kitatumba ETC in Butembo. While far from a perfect solution, this initiative provides essential human contact and emotional support for children facing the outbreak.

“On top of enormous challenges caring for young patients, medical facilities are dealing with a lack of paediatric dosing guidance, and limited availability of child-friendly formulations of investigational medicines,” says Dr Guyguy Manangama, epidemiologist and deputy director of operations at MSF. “A child-centred approach must be at the heart of medical care, operational planning, and research efforts.”​​

Children have been disproportionately affected by the current outbreak, yet they are left behind when it comes to access to innovative medical tools. Historically, children are often excluded from clinical research or included only after significant delays, creating dangerous gaps in evidence and access to potentially lifesaving interventions.

“Treatments, vaccines, and other preventive tools should be evaluated for use in children from the outset of research efforts and made available to them without delay,” says Dr Manangama. “Yet in the current outbreak, children are still being left behind, with very limited access to vaccination trials and campaigns, as well as the latest therapeutic innovations despite bearing a significant burden of disease.” 

“Children cannot continue to wait for data generated in adults before benefiting from advances in Ebola care and prevention,” says Dr Manangama.

MSF urges national authorities, research institutions, pharmaceutical developers, and international funders to prioritise the inclusion of children in all ongoing and future Bundibugyo virus studies. Ensuring equitable access to research and new medical tools, including vaccines, is essential to reducing preventable deaths and improving outcomes for one of the most vulnerable groups.

The impact of the outbreak on children extends beyond Ebola infection itself. Disruptions to essential health services can rapidly increase risks from vaccine-preventable diseases, malnutrition, and other common childhood illnesses. Preserving routine immunisation, nutrition programmes, and access to general healthcare must therefore be considered a core component of the outbreak response, not an afterthought.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Médecins sans frontières (MSF).

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Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets Korean Ambassador

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | October 15, 2026

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met on Thursday with HE Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the State of Qatar Hong Jeepio.

During the meeting, the cooperative relations between the two countries were reviewed, in addition to a number of topics of common interest. 

President Ramaphosa to address convention on Youth Employment

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 22 October 2026, deliver the keynote address at the SA National Leadership Convening on Youth Employment at the Galleria Conference and Events Venue, Sandton, Johannesburg.

The Convening is hosted by Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, manager and operator of SA Youth, in partnership with The Presidency, Business Unity South Africa, the Department of Employment and Labour, the Department of Higher Education and Training, and the Youth Employment Service (YES).

South Africa is entering a new phase in expanding pathways to earning for young people.

Across government, business and civil society, an emerging programme of action – Work SA Youth Implementation Plan – is taking shape around the practical interventions, partnerships and delivery mechanisms that can accelerate earning opportunities at scale.

Initiatives across sectors are already demonstrating progress — creating jobs, opening learning pathways, strengthening public employment programmes and expanding opportunities for self-employment and enterprise.

This creates an opportunity to build confidence in the national ambition, make visible what is already moving the dial, and strengthen collective leadership around the next phase of implementation.

The SA Youth National Leadership Convening brings together 250 senior leaders from government, business and civil society to build confidence in the emerging programme of action to reduce youth unemployment, demonstrate progress already underway across key pathways to earning and mobilise coordinated action around what must be strengthened, scaled or unlocked to achieve the national ambition.

The President will address the National Leadership Convening on Youth Employment as follows:
Date: Thursday, 22 October 2026
Time: 10:00
Venue: The Galleria, M1 Place, 10 Eastern Service Road, Marlboro, Sandton

Members of the media wishing to cover the Convening can RSVP by Friday, 16 October 2026, to Khutjo Sebata at Khutjo@presidency.gov.za and Tshegofatso Tshangela at tshegofatso@harambee.co.za.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Keynote address by Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile on the occasion of the Limpopo Investment Conference 2026, The Ranch Resort, Polokwane, Limpopo Province

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director and Chairperson of the Limpopo Tourism Agency Board, Mr Freddy Greaver;
Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba;
Polokwane City Acting Executive Mayor, Cllr. Joosuf Pemma;
Executive Mayor of the Capricorn District Municipality, Cllr Mamedupi Teffo;
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Peoples Republic of China to the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Ambassador, Wu Peng;
MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Dr Tshitereke Matibe;
Members of the Executive Council;
Representatives of Provincial and Local Government;
Members of the Diplomatic Corps;
Investors, Business Leaders, Development Finance Institutions and Development Partners;
Members of the media;
Distinguished guests;
Ladies and gentlemen;

Good Morning. Goeie Môre. Avuxeni. Ndi Matsheloni. Dumelang. Thobela.

It is always a pleasure to return to Limpopo, a province defined by the warmth of its people, the richness of its natural and cultural heritage, and its immense economic potential.

We meet in a province whose history is deeply rooted in trade, innovation and enterprise. Centuries ago, the Kingdom of Mapungubwe was a thriving centre of commerce that connected this region to markets beyond our continent. That legacy reminds us that entrepreneurship, trade and investment are part of Limpopo’s identity.

Today, we are called upon to build on that legacy by unlocking new opportunities for growth, investment and job creation.

It is therefore fitting that we gather under the theme, “From Pledges to Progress: Accelerating Implementation and Unlocking Investment in Limpopo.”

This theme captures the task before us. Investment commitments are important, but their true value lies in what they achieve. They must result in new businesses, expanded industries, decent jobs and opportunities that improve the lives of our people.

Our goal is not simply to attract investment. It is to ensure that investment translates into tangible benefits for communities, supports local enterprises, drives industrialisation and contributes to inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

The impact of this conference has been significant. More than R452 billion in investment pledges have been secured, while investments exceeding R71 billion have already been implemented. These investments have contributed to the creation of nearly 24 000 jobs, demonstrating the positive difference that investment can make in people’s lives and livelihoods.

This is why the work we undertake here matters.

Limpopo is exceptionally well placed for growth. Its abundant mineral resources, fertile agricultural land, strategic location and expanding industrial capacity provide a strong foundation for investment and economic development.

From mining and mineral beneficiation to agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, logistics and renewable energy, the province possesses significant opportunities to drive economic expansion and create employment at scale.

The real measure of our success, however, will not be the value of investments announced today. It will be our ability to ensure that those investments become operational projects, thriving businesses and sustainable jobs.

Ultimately, it is implementation that drives growth, it is projects that create employment, and delivery that transforms lives.

Distinguished delegates,

We must also make full use of Limpopo’s strategic location within South Africa and the broader Southern African region.

As a gateway to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Limpopo is uniquely positioned to benefit from growing regional trade and the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area.

However, increased trade must mean more than goods moving across borders. It must stimulate local production, strengthen value chains, attract new industries and create sustainable employment for the people of this province.

The foundations for growth are already in place. Our task now is to unlock their full potential through decisive action and effective implementation.

To achieve this, we must continue investing in the infrastructure that supports economic growth. Reliable energy, water security, efficient transport systems, logistics networks and digital connectivity are no longer optional. They are essential for competitiveness in a modern economy.

Infrastructure investment not only improves economic efficiency; it creates the conditions that encourage private sector investment, expand productive activity and support job creation.

At the same time, we must improve project preparation and ensure that promising opportunities become investment-ready.

While investors are drawn to economic potential, they invest where there is confidence. They seek policy certainty, transparent governance, efficient regulation and credible implementation.

As government we therefore remain committed to improving the ease of doing business, reducing unnecessary regulatory hurdles and strengthening coordination across all spheres of Government.

Under the Premier’s guidance, Limpopo should enhance coordination among provincial departments, municipalities, and national Government to overcome investment obstacles and promote economic development, ultimately improving residents’ lives.

We are pleased that the InvestSA One Stop Shop has been established to provide investors with a single point of access to Government services, helping to accelerate project implementation and reduce administrative barriers.

It forms part of our broader strategy to improve regulatory efficiency, lower the cost of doing business and make South Africa a more attractive investment destination.

This important initiative will strengthen the province’s ability to attract, facilitate and retain investment. It will support the implementation of strategic projects and contribute to economic growth and employment creation.

For investors, the One Stop Shop will provide direct access to Government support and guidance throughout the investment process, helping them establish and expand businesses more efficiently.

The launch of this facility sends a clear message: Limpopo is open for business.

It reflects our commitment to working alongside investors as partners in development and to ensuring that Government becomes an enabler of growth rather than a barrier to it.

Programme Director, ladies and gentlemen,

As I draw towards a conclusion, let me emphasise that South Africa’s future prosperity cannot be built on exporting raw materials alone.

Our long-term success depends on our ability to add value to what we produce, expand industrial capacity and create productive employment opportunities for our people.

We must deepen industrialisation, strengthen manufacturing and build competitive value chains that support economic growth and employment at scale.

Limpopo is exceptionally well positioned to contribute to this national objective through mining beneficiation, agro-processing, manufacturing, logistics and energy development.

We must process more of our mineral resources locally, add value to our agricultural production and manufacture more of the goods our economy requires.

In doing so, we will strengthen local industries, grow exports, create sustainable jobs and build a more resilient economy.

But industrialisation cannot succeed without investing in people.

As new investments flow into the province, we must ensure that our young people have the skills needed to participate meaningfully in a changing economy.

This requires greater investment in education, technical and vocational training, apprenticeships and workplace learning opportunities.

Every young person must have a fair opportunity to develop their talents, secure employment and contribute to our country’s growth.

Equally important is ensuring that the benefits of investment are shared more broadly.

Investment must create opportunities not only for large corporations but also for township enterprises, small businesses, cooperatives, emerging industrialists and local suppliers.

When local businesses participate in value chains, the impact of investment reaches deeper into communities, supports entrepreneurship and creates more sustainable economic opportunities.

True economic inclusion is achieved when growth creates opportunities for all.

This shared responsibility requires strong partnerships.

Government cannot deliver economic transformation alone. Neither can business, labour or development finance institutions acting independently.

Government must provide policy certainty and an enabling environment. The private sector must bring investment, innovation and expertise. Development finance institutions must help unlock strategic projects. Communities must remain active partners in development.

When these efforts are aligned behind a common purpose, meaningful progress becomes possible.

As we approach the Local Government Elections in November, we must also recognise the importance of capable and developmental local Government.

Strong municipalities are essential for delivering services, supporting local economic development and creating conditions that attract investment.

Communities deserve local leadership that is capable, accountable and committed to improving the quality of life of all residents.

To our investors gathered here today, let me assure you that we understand the importance of credibility and trust.

Investors need confidence that commitments will be honoured, projects will be implemented and challenges will be addressed with urgency.

The emphasis this conference places on accountability, implementation and measurable outcomes is therefore both necessary and encouraging.

It demonstrates that Limpopo is not merely seeking investment commitments. It is focused on converting those commitments into projects, jobs and lasting economic opportunities.

As we engage over the course of this conference, let us focus not only on identifying opportunities but also on finding practical solutions.

Let us unlock projects that have stalled. Let us strengthen collaboration between investors, Government and project sponsors. Let us accelerate the flow of capital into productive sectors of the economy.

Most importantly, let us ensure that our plans translate into tangible results. Because at the heart of every investment is a human story.

It is the story of a young person searching for work. A small business owner seeking an opportunity to grow. A woman striving to build a better future for her family. A community hoping for improved infrastructure and better prospects for the next generation.

That is why this work matters.

Investment must ultimately create jobs, expand opportunity, support entrepreneurs and improve the quality of life of our people.

It must restore hope where there is uncertainty and create pathways to dignity, inclusion and shared prosperity.

In conclusion, the time for commitments alone has passed.

The task before us now is implementation.

Together, we must turn pledges into progress through partnership, accountability and decisive action.

If we succeed, we will not only unlock investment. We will unlock opportunity, growth and a better future for the people of Limpopo and our country as a whole.

I wish you productive deliberations and every success for this conference.

Congratulations once again on the launch of the InvestSA One Stop Shop in Limpopo Province.

I thank you.

Nzimande to explore innovation and industrialisation at East London tech park

Source: Government of South Africa

Nzimande to explore innovation and industrialisation at East London tech park

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande will visit the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) Science and Technology Park on Friday to explore how innovation, enterprise development and technical skills can help drive South Africa’s industrialisation.

The strategic engagement will showcase the park’s role in connecting new ideas and technological advances with industry, while identifying opportunities to strengthen collaboration across government, business and the innovation sector.

“The visit will also provide the Minister with an opportunity to engage directly with the leadership of the Provincial and Local Government, the ELIDZ, innovators and entrepreneurs on the opportunities and challenges involved in translating research, technology and new ideas into commercially viable products and services,” the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation said in a statement.

Established in 2014, the ELIDZ Science and Technology Park is South Africa’s first and only science and technology park fully integrated within an Industrial Development Zone.

Through incubation, product development, specialised facilities and technology support, the park helps entrepreneurs develop their ideas and bring them to market.

It currently supports more than 71 enterprises, contributing to industrial competitiveness and economic development in the Eastern Cape.

The visit forms part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to strengthen ties with Special Economic Zones and industry, build local and regional innovation ecosystems, and advance innovation-led industrialisation.

Nzimande will be joined by the MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Nonkqubela Pieters; Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Princess Faku; and ELIDZ Board Chairperson, Ayanda Kanana. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Guinée – Forum International des Secrétariats Généraux de Gouvernement : Le Premier Ministre Préside l’Ouverture de la 2e Édition

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Premier ministre, Chef du Gouvernement, Amadou Oury Bah, a présidé la cérémonie d’ouverture de la deuxième édition du Forum international des Secrétariats généraux de Gouvernement, placée sous le thème : « L’intelligence artificielle au service de la plateforme gouvernementale ».

Organisée par le Secrétariat général du Gouvernement, cette rencontre vise à renforcer la coopération entre les administrations publiques et à explorer les apports de l’intelligence artificielle dans l’amélioration de l’action gouvernementale, dans un cadre éthique, sécurisé et responsable.

Dans son allocution de bienvenue, le ministre Secrétaire général du Gouvernement, Tamba Benoît Kamano, a rappelé les acquis de la première édition, tenue en 2025, notamment l’institutionnalisation du réseau international des Secrétariats généraux de Gouvernement. Il a précisé que les travaux s’articuleront autour de huit ateliers thématiques consacrés à la coopération administrative et aux usages responsables de l’intelligence artificielle.

Au nom des délégations participantes, Jean Albert Ekumbaki Ombata a salué l’accueil des autorités guinéennes et souligné l’importance du partage d’expériences pour moderniser les administrations publiques.

Dans son discours d’ouverture, le Premier ministre a mis en avant le potentiel de l’intelligence artificielle pour faciliter la recherche documentaire, l’analyse juridique, la préparation des décisions gouvernementales et le suivi des réformes. Il a également insisté sur son apport à la digitalisation des marchés publics, notamment pour mieux analyser les coûts, détecter les anomalies et renforcer la transparence dans la gestion des ressources publiques.

Toutefois, le Chef du Gouvernement a rappelé que l’innovation technologique doit s’accompagner de garanties en matière de confidentialité, de sécurité des données et de souveraineté numérique. « La responsabilité de la décision reste humaine », a-t-il souligné.

Il a enfin appelé à une coopération accrue entre les administrations, à l’investissement dans la formation des agents publics et à la mobilisation des chercheurs et des compétences de la jeunesse, afin de faire de l’intelligence artificielle un véritable levier de modernisation et de performance de l’action gouvernementale.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République de Guinée.

Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Day 2026: Defence Leadership Reaffirms Frontline Readiness, Troop Welfare And National Security

Source: APO

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) marked KDF Day 2026 with high-level leadership engagements at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Narok and the North Rift, reaffirming the centrality of personnel welfare, operational readiness and professional military service in safeguarding national security.

The Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, joined troops at Narok FOB, while the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, commemorated the occasion alongside personnel deployed under Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) at Chemolingot and Napeitom FOBs in Baringo County.

The engagements, held under the theme “A Soldier-Centric Approach to Enhanced National Security and Development,” underscored the Defence leadership’s commitment to supporting frontline personnel, strengthening operational effectiveness and recognising the sacrifices of those entrusted with protecting Kenya’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests.

At Narok FOB, Hon. Tuya was received by the Base Commander Wajir Air Base, Brigadier Apollo Aloka, who briefed her on the Base’s operational status and activities. She subsequently inspected key security installations, a water purification facility and the newly opened Defence Forces Welfare Services (DEFWES) supermarket, highlighting the importance of operational infrastructure and welfare facilities in sustaining mission readiness.

Addressing Officers and Service Members, the Cabinet Secretary commended their courage, discipline and professionalism, acknowledging their sacrifices in preserving national peace, security and stability.

“We honour you, we appreciate you, and we acknowledge your effort to keep our country safe,” she affirmed, reinforcing the Government’s recognition of the dedication and selfless service of KDF personnel.

Meanwhile, at Chemolingot FOB, General Kahariri paid tribute to troops conducting security operations against banditry and livestock theft in the North Rift. He commended their resilience and operational achievements, emphasising that the mission extends beyond neutralising security threats to restoring public confidence, protecting vulnerable communities and creating conditions for sustainable socioeconomic development.

“Through your efforts, you contribute directly to safeguarding our citizens, restoring security and creating conditions for communities to resume their social and economic activities. I also recognise the sacrifices made by your families, who support you through the demands and uncertainties of military service,” the CDF stated.

General Kahariri urged troops to maintain operational vigilance, discipline and unity while conducting all missions in strict adherence to the Constitution, human rights and the rule of law. He emphasised that professionalism, accountability and respect for human dignity remain fundamental to effective military operations and public trust.

The CDF further reaffirmed the Defence leadership’s commitment to strengthening personnel welfare through improved healthcare, affordable housing, the KDF Mortgage Scheme and other initiatives designed to enhance the wellbeing of Service Members and their families.

He also paid solemn tribute to fallen heroes, recognised wounded personnel and veterans, and acknowledged the resilience of military families whose sacrifices remain integral to the Defence Forces’ operational strength.

Accompanied by the Commander Kenya Army, Lieutenant General David Ketter, the CDF subsequently visited Napeitom FOB, where the leadership engagements focused on troop welfare, morale, operational coordination and sustained mission effectiveness.

The visits demonstrated a shared leadership priority: that a well-supported, disciplined and motivated force is fundamental to operational success and enduring national security.

As KDF Day 2026 honours the courage, sacrifice and service of Kenya’s military personnel, the engagements in Narok and the North Rift reaffirm the Defence Forces’ determination to protect the nation, support frontline troops and contribute to lasting peace, stability and national development.

They further reinforce the KDF institutional vision: “One Force, Mission Ready, Deeply Rooted in Professionalism.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.

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Lesotho: The Government Urged Poultry Farmers to Align Production With Demand in Order to Improve Quality and Meet International Market Standards

Source: APO


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Poultry farmers in Teyateyaneng had been urged to align production with market demand to improve product quality, ensure a consistent supply of poultry products and sustain their businesses.
The call was made during a three-day workshop organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition for broiler and layer poultry farmers at the Teyateyaneng Resource Centre.
The workshop introduced participants to the Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) approach.
Addressing participants, Agricultural Assistant Mrs. Joalane Mekeleli said the SHEP approach encouraged farmers to identify markets before starting production to ensure that their products met customer requirements.
She said gaps in poultry farming practices needed to be addressed to improve production and ensure proper feeding and farm management to meet market demand.
Mrs. Mekeleli encouraged farmers to adopt uniform feeding practices and maintain a consistent supply of poultry products to sustain their businesses.
Meanwhile, Livestock Area Technical Officer Mrs. Itumeleng Lekhafola Masupha advised farmers to select suitable locations for their poultry farms, taking possible future expansion into account.
She said poultry farm sites should be free from marshy conditions and excessive moisture. Trees near poultry houses should also be avoided because they could obstruct air circulation and attract birds that might transmit diseases to chickens.
Mrs. Masupha added that farmers should choose warm locations where electricity or solar energy could be used to provide lighting and heating in poultry houses.
On poultry housing, she said farmers could determine the length of their structures according to their needs but recommended a width of 12 meters.
She explained that poultry houses should have floors that prevent water from accumulating, adequate lighting, mesh to allow proper air circulation and ceilings to prevent rainwater from dripping inside.
Essential equipment, she said, included feeders, drinkers, weighing scales, thermometers and cages for laying hens.
Mrs. Masupha said farmers could use different heating systems, including gas brooders, electric brooders, infrared heaters, coal stoves and gas heaters. However, she advised them to choose equipment that produced minimal smoke to protect the birds.
Other essential supplies included feed, medication, a book and pen for record-keeping, as well as a wheelbarrow and spade for cleaning.
Regarding chick management, Mrs. Masupha said farmers should prepare brooders measuring between 30 and 60 centimeters and provide bedding material with a depth of five to 10 centimeters.
She said sawdust or grass could be used as bedding and covered with newspapers to prevent chicks from eating the material.
Mrs. Masupha advised farmers to provide chicks with sufficient warmth until they were three weeks old, noting that additional heating might be necessary during particularly cold weather.
On hygiene, she said farmers should wash and rinse poultry houses and use disinfectants to eliminate germs.
She emphasized the importance of daily cleaning and encouraged farmers to use sanitizers and footbaths as part of routine hygiene practices to prevent the spread of diseases.
Mrs. Masupha advised farmers keeping laying hens to collect broken eggs before handling fresh ones to reduce the risk of contamination.
Farmers were further encouraged to consider customer preferences when preparing their products for sale, as some customers might prefer specific chicken portions rather than whole chickens.
Improving product quality was also highlighted as important for farmers seeking to compete in international markets.
The workshop is also expected to cover proper feeding practices and ways of engaging with different markets to understand and meet their specific requirements.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Government of Lesotho.

Ghana: Government (Gov’t) Launches Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in Ahanta West and Mpohor Fiase

Source: APO


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Government has launched the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in the Ahanta West and Mpohor Fiase areas of the Western Region, as part of efforts to formalise small-scale mining, protect the environment and ensure that mining communities benefit directly from the country’s mineral resources.

Addressing stakeholders at the launch, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Yusif Sulemana emphasised that responsible mining must go beyond mineral extraction to create jobs, support local assemblies and traditional authorities, and improve the livelihoods of residents.

The Deputy Minister explained that the programme was designed to provide small-scale miners with a legitimate and organised pathway to operate responsibly.

He noted that the government was working with relevant institutions, including the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to register and certify mining groups and cooperatives.

Hon. Sulemana asserted that the formalisation process would provide miners with the necessary regulatory backing to operate within the law while ensuring that the initiative remains sustainable beyond changes in government.

He urged mining cooperatives to employ people from their host communities, respect traditional authorities and landowners, and ensure that the benefits of mining are shared with local residents.

Deputy Minister also stressed the importance of adopting modern mineral-processing technologies to reduce reliance on harmful chemicals such as mercury and cyanide.

“Such technologies could improve gold recovery while limiting environmental damage, particularly to rivers, farmlands and other natural resources”. He assured stakeholders that the relevant agencies would continue to monitor mining activities and support cooperatives in meeting the programme’s requirements.

The Acting National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, Mr. Sheihu Sidiqq, in his address, acknowledged the devastating impact of illegal and irresponsible mining on Ghana’s water bodies, forests and farmlands, while recognising that small-scale mining remained an important source of livelihood for many families.

The National Coordinator called on participating cooperatives to meet the requirements for accessing concessions, comply with all regulatory obligations and uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency and environmental stewardship.

The Ahanta West and Mpohor Fiase launch marks another step in the government’s drive to formalise small-scale mining and promote environmentally responsible operations, with Nzema East in the Western Region expected to be the next area to benefit from the programme.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Republic of Ghana.