Category: MIL-OSI

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Gauteng unveils bold plan to address infrastructure challenges

Source: Government of South Africa

In a move to confront infrastructure challenges within Gauteng, the provincial government is deploying a “multi-faceted and practical strategy” to fix failing infrastructure, root out construction mafia syndicates and deal with project mismanagement.

In a statement, the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) said the repair of failing infrastructure and the revitalisation of Central Business Districts is at the heart of a 13-point plan unveiled by Premier Panyaza Lesufi during the State of the Province Address in February.

“This strategy redefines infrastructure as a fundamental catalyst for sparking economic development, generating employment and transforming society,” the provincial government said.

The province also noted that Lesufi has consistently acknowledged the “severe state of disrepair in some of the province’s infrastructure, correctly identifying it as a detriment to economic growth”.

“The causes are complex and multifaceted, including historical inadequate maintenance, rampant vandalism by sophisticated syndicates, pressure from so-called ‘business forums’ (construction mafias), and significant project management failures.

“The provincial government is confronting these legacy challenges directly through a multi-faceted and practical strategy. This plan is focused on completing unfinished projects, securing existing assets. and ensuring the province’s infrastructure is sustainable for the future,” the provincial government explained.

Interventions already underway include the establishment of an Infrastructure War Room, aimed at managing risks and driving turnaround strategies for critical infrastructure projects, including “unlocking funding, with a specific focus on Public-Private Partnerships”.

“The Department of Infrastructure Development [DID] has also introduced the Infrastructure Delivery Platform (IDEP), a tool that will fast-track all distressed projects while significantly enhancing transparency and communication with client departments. 

“The department has also taken decisive action by terminating the contracts of non-compliant service providers. This includes compiling a list of these restricted suppliers for National Treasury to initiate an official blacklisting process, ensuring these poor performers are excluded from future work,” the provincial government said.

The Gauteng Infrastructure Financing Agency (GIFA) has also been centralised within the DID, while work is also underway to tackle construction mafia syndicates.

“GIFA has been tasked with revitalising and commercialising the government’s property precinct in the Johannesburg CBD. This innovative, results-oriented strategy aims to convert underutilised assets from liabilities into income-generating assets, stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, and generating revenue for the state.

“To combat construction mafia syndicates, the matter is being escalated to the Gauteng Essential Infrastructure Task Team. Led by SAPS, this multi-agency unit targets crimes like cable theft, vandalism, and illegal connections. 

“It comprises police, traffic officials, and experts from Eskom and Transnet who conduct intelligence-led operations to disrupt crimes and recover stolen materials,” the GPG said.

Additionally, Heads of Department will now be held accountable for unfinished projects and some youth employed within the Nasi Spani, will be deployed to maintain infrastructure.

“Premier Lesufi decided that the performance contracts for all Heads of Department would include a clause to reduce and eliminate unfinished infrastructure projects within their departments. He also stated that consequence management would be implemented for those responsible for any unfinished projects.

“The recently launched Nasi Ispani 2.0 initiative includes the Unemployed Youth Skills Development Initiative, which will enrol 2 810 unemployed youth for high-impact, hands-on training in critical trades like plumbing, electrical installation, construction, and plastering. 

“These are the very young people who will be deployed to finish and maintain the provincial infrastructure, reducing the government’s long-term dependence on external contractors,” the GPG said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister Tolashe advances the course to reduce fraud in grant system

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe says she is confident that the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is making strides in improving efficiency, while intensifying efforts to root out fraud and corruption within the grant system.

In a statement released by the department, the Minister expressed the importance of the Beneficiary Biometric Enrollment in all SASSA offices as one of the flagship initiatives geared towards thwarting all the fraudulent elements in the social grants system. 

In addition to this, she said measures are in place to implement social grant reviews, which are intended to determine the eligibility of social grant beneficiaries and root out those who no longer qualify.

The Minister said the steadfast leadership has undoubtedly brought some sense of hope of relief in saving the government fiscus which is already under strain. 

She has lauded the agility of the entity’s CEO, Themba Matlou, and his executives in ensuring that the public is consistently informed about the changes in the grant system.

Matlou said they appreciate the agency’s leadership, noting that while others may not have recognised the Minister’s enormous contribution since the new administration, her arrival inspired executives to give their all in accelerating service delivery and advancing social protection for the vulnerable.

The Minister acknowledged that SASSA’s image has been tainted by fraud allegations. She reiterated that systems are in place to implement fraud prevention strategies.

“We are seeing the results in the audit outcomes, as well as the arrest of SASSA officials who committed fraud. Gauteng and the Eastern Cape have become the most recent cases which we are focusing on,” Tolashe said. 

Tolashe has ensured that SASSA fills critical posts across its regions. Six regions have permanent Regional Executive Managers (REMs) in contrast to the last administration when there were more acting than permanent officials in these roles.

Emphasising the capacity at SASSA offices, the Minister committed to ensure the capacitation of all offices in a quest to reduce long queues is underway.

“SASSA is working around the clock to finalise an organisational structure that will ensure that offices at the centre of service-delivery are fully capacitated to realise efficiency and uninterrupted services to the millions of SASSA clients,” the Minister said. 

Moreover, the Minister expressed that improved organisational efficiency will go a long way in improving customer experience for clients when they go to SASSA offices for services. – SAnews.gov.za 

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Madlanga Commission: Lt. General Mkhwanazi gives evidence

Source: Government of South Africa

Amidst grave allegations of a criminal syndicate corrupting the very heart of South Africa’s justice system and law enforcement, the Madlanga Commission will hold its first hearing in Tshwane today.

The commission, chaired by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, is tasked with what President Cyril Ramaphosa has called a mission of national urgency: to uncover the truth within allegations of a web of corruption, political interference and intimidation.

Officially known as the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, the commission will hold its hearings in the main auditorium of the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College.

In a statement, commission spokesperson, Jeremy Michaels, said the hearings will start at 10am today and from 9.30am on Thursday onwards.

“People attending will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis. Another reason for early arrival is that strict access control measures will be in place, and no unauthorised entry will be permitted.

“Public access to the venue is via the entrance on Struben Street, between Lillian Ngoyi and Sisulu streets. Members of the public should note that parking at the justice college is very limited. It is therefore advisable to seek alternative parking,” Michaels said.

Search for truth

The establishment of the commission follows serious allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi about an alleged criminal syndicate that has spread influence into law enforcement, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and intelligence services.

The KZN commissioner also made allegations against the Police Minister Senzo Mchunu – alleging that he colluded with criminal elements to disband the Political Killings Task Team based in that province.

“[Since establishment], the commission’s evidence leaders and investigators have been in consultation with witnesses and following up on information within the commission’s terms of reference. 

“We can confirm that the consultation [with the first witness]… was with Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi, whom the commission intends to call as its first witness,” Michaels told a media briefing last week.

The commission’s evidence leader, Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC, told the same media briefing that some witnesses may not give evidence in public for their own safety.

“While we are committed to transparency, we have to prioritise the protection of human life at all costs. Unless we can make evidence available in a form that’s not going to put human life at risk, we can’t do that. 

“So, this is not [to] analogise [the] situation faced by the Zondo Commission. We sit in a much more extreme situation, and our first commitment must always be to the protection of human life,” Chaskalson said.

Safeguarding the nation

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the commission during a Sunday evening national address in July after Mkhwanazi’s own media briefing detailing his allegations.

At the time, the President noted that the provincial commissioner’s allegations “raise serious concerns around the Constitution, the rule of law and national security”.

“These allegations, if proven true, threaten to undermine the confidence of South Africans in the ability of the South African Police Service to protect them and to effectively fight crime and corruption.

“As we intensify the fight against crime, it is vital that we safeguard the integrity and credibility of the police and other law enforcement agencies.

“These allegations therefore call for an urgent and comprehensive investigation,” the President said.

He set out the parameters of the commission’s work which includes investigating: 

  • The facilitation of organised crime
  • Suppression or manipulation of investigations
  • Inducement into criminal actions by law enforcement leadership
  • The commission of any other criminal offences and intimidation, victimisation or targeted removal of whistleblowers or officials resisting criminal influence

“The commission will investigate the role of current or former senior officials in certain institutions who may have aided or abetted the alleged criminal activity; failed to act on credible intelligence or internal warnings; or benefited financially or politically from a syndicate’s operations.

“These institutions are the South African Police Service, National Prosecuting Authority, State Security Agency, the Judiciary and Magistracy, and the metropolitan police departments of Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and Tshwane,” he said.

The commission will also probe whether any “members of the National Executive responsible for the criminal justice system, were complicit, aided and abetted, or participated in the acts mentioned above”.

Swift action

President Ramaphosa explained that the Madlanga Commission has the power to “refer matters for immediate criminal investigation and urgent decisions on prosecution” with interim reports expected after three and six months.

“It is critical that these matters be attended to with the necessary urgency and thoroughness.

“The commission is expected to complete its work and submit a final report to the President. The final report of the commission will [also] be sent to the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chief Justice,” he said.

The President assured that the work of law enforcement agencies will continue unabated as the commission “undertakes its work”.

“I call on all members of our law enforcement agencies and security services to remain steadfast in upholding the rule of law and adhering to their code of conduct.

“I call on all South Africans to support the commission in its work and, where appropriate, to provide any information or assistance the commission may require.

“In establishing this Commission of Inquiry, we are affirming our commitment to the rule of law, to transparency and accountability, and to building a South Africa in which all people are safe and secure,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Uganda Chamber of Energy and Mines Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Confirms African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 Participation

Source: APO


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Humphrey Asiimwe, CEO of the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Mines, has been confirmed as a speaker at the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders – taking place from October 1-3, 2025, in Cape Town.

Asiimwe will feature on the Africa’s Mineral Future: A Roadmap Toward Sustainable Growth and Value Creation panel, showcasing best practices to leverage mining to drive revenue generation, employment creation and industrialization in mineral-rich countries like Uganda.

His participation comes at a pivotal time for Uganda, as the country intensifies cooperation with global private and public sector parties to unlock its mineral potential. In July 2025, Uganda signed a strategic agreement with the UK to boost cooperation across its mining value chain. The UK committed to help Uganda attract both public and private investments as part of the agreement. Additionally, on June 18, Uganda partnered with the Geological Survey of Slovenia on a five-year project to assess mineral potential across 11 targets. Other initiatives supported by the European Union’s Pan-African Geological Surveys and the German Corporation for International Cooperation aim to strengthen Uganda’s seismic and geological survey capabilities – key to de-risking the sector and enhancing investor confidence.

Uganda also reached a milestone in March 2025 by signing its first-ever Mineral Production Sharing Agreement, paving the way for the redevelopment of the Kilembe Copper Mine. Local companies Sarrai Group Limited and Nile Fibreboard Limited are spearheading the project, expected to boost mineral output, generate revenue and create jobs.

At AMW, Asiimwe is anticipated to shed light on these milestones and outline the Chamber’s collaboration with the Ugandan government to deepen private sector engagement, promote local content and position the East African country as a competitive player in the global mining industry.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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

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Tenth edition of Nigeria Mining Week to feature exciting new industry forums

Source: APO


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The upcoming Nigeria Mining Week conference and expo will feature exciting new forums to engage mining houses, sector specialists and investors specifically on matters such as steel, gold, gemstones and power. In addition, the Kaduna State Deal Room, Quarrying Forum and Women in Extractive Industries Forum are expected to gather high-profile mining dignitaries as the event celebrates its 10th edition when it returns to Abuja from 13 to 15 October. This year’s event theme is: “Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance.”

The event is hosted by Ministry of Solid Mineral Development of Nigeria and organised by Miners Association of Nigeria, in partnership with PwC Nigeria and VUKA Group.

Platform for shaping conversation
Says Habeeb Jaiyeola, Partner and Head, Mining Sector, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Nigeria: “Over the past decade, this annual event has served as the foremost platform for shaping the conversation on Nigeria’s mining sector—driving dialogue, building consensus and crafting solutions that position mining as a true engine of shared prosperity for all Nigerians.”

He adds: “This year’s edition, themed “Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance”, is designed to showcase the milestones achieved in Nigeria’s mining sector to both local stakeholders and the international community. At the same time, it provides a critical forum for addressing current challenges and developing actionable solutions that will unlock the sector’s full potential for growth, inclusivity and global competitiveness.”

Catalyst for progress
“The 10th edition of Nigeria Mining Week is a key milestone for the industry and reflects the increasing maturity of the country’s extractive sector,” says VUKA Group Event Director for Mining Samukelo Madlabane. “The traditional 10th-anniversary gift is tin and aluminium, symbolising the flexibility and durability of a lasting relationship. How very apt that Nigeria has abundant tin reserves, primarily located in the Jos Plateau, and is a major exporter of tin ore. Moreover, the country is a significant consumer and processor of aluminium.”

“Networking and dealmaking”
“An important function of the event has always been to maximise sharing, dealmaking and networking between our attendees,” Madlabane continues “We are therefore excited to introduce several new features in the programme to enable all the different sectors and specialists to have specific gatherings to brainstorm and inspire each other.”

The new forums include the following:

– Kaduna Mining Development Company (KMDC) Deal Room
Nigeria Mining Week has always been a prime deal-making gathering for the industry. This year, a dedicated Deal Room, exclusively sponsored by the Kaduna Mining Development Company, will provide a private venue to connect directly with top investors, project owners and industry leaders ready to negotiate and seal transformative agreements on the spot. The Kaduna Deal Room will offer a premium, confidential space designed to spark focused conversations that turn opportunities into real business success for pre-arranged, high-impact meetings in a fully equipped, distraction-free and confidential environment.

– Gold & West Africa Forum
Nigeria’s gold sector is gaining traction as one of the most promising segments of its mining industry. With increasing private sector interest, artisanal mining reforms, and government initiatives such as the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative (PAGMI), the country is positioning itself as a key gold producer in West Africa.

– Power-To-Mines Forum
This one-day forum on the sidelines of Nigeria Mining Week will bring together key stakeholders from Nigeria’s power and mining sectors. The forum is a direct response to the critical interdependence of these two industries, recognising that a stable and reliable electricity supply is a precondition for Nigeria’s mining-led industrial transformation and its goal of achieving a US$1 trillion economy by 2030.

– Quarrying Forum
The Quarrying Forum is a dedicated platform that will bring together key stakeholders to explore advancements in technology, sustainable practices, and investment strategies that are vital for powering the nation’s infrastructure and construction industries. It is an essential platform where owners, operators, suppliers, and policymakers come together to innovate and overcome industry challenges, ultimately building a more sustainable and robust quarrying landscape.

– Steel Forum
The Steel Forum is a strategic platform dedicated to strengthening Nigeria’s steel sector as a driver of industrialisation, job creation and infrastructure development. Despite having abundant iron ore and other critical inputs, Nigeria continues to import large volumes of steel products. This forum will unpack the opportunities to accelerate domestic steel production, enhance beneficiation, and unlock partnerships that can reduce dependence on imports and make Nigeria a regional steel hub.

– Women in Extractive Industries Forum
The Women in Extractive Industries Forum celebrates the contributions of women across mining and extractives while creating space for dialogue on gender equity, inclusion, and leadership. This forum creates a roadmap for increasing women’s visibility, participation, and access to finance in Nigeria’s mining value chain.

– Gemstones Forum
Gemstones Forum at Nigeria Mining Week is designed to spotlight Nigeria’s potential as a regional and global hub for gemstone mining, processing, and trading. It will explore avenues for formalisation, certification, value addition, and export diversification, ultimately positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global gemstone market.

Industry support
From 13 to 15 October, Nigeria Mining Week once again will showcase dozens of exciting mining and extractive projects in the country. The event is also expected to gather attendees from more than 20 countries, including more than 2,300 mining professionals, around 90 sponsors and exhibitors, some 180 mining operators and in excess of 137 expert speakers and VIPs.

Over the last decade, Nigeria Mining Week has become thé gathering place for many leading mining bosses and suppliers, many of whom have become longstanding partners and sponsors for the Abuja gathering. Titan Minerals Ltd is returning as the diamond plus sponsor; KMDC, Mikano Motors, Sinogrand and Xugong Nigeria Company Ltd are diamond sponsors; and SMT Nigeria is back as a platinum sponsor.

Nigeria Mining Week event dates and location:
Dates: 13–15 October 2025
Location: Abuja Continental Hotel – Meetings & Conferences (https://apo-opa.co/4nEyRRE)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Media contact:
Nazeerah Solomon 
Marketing Specialist – Mining, VUKA Group
T: +27 (0) 21 700 3515
E: nazeerah.solomon@wearevuka.com 

Social Media: 
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/46DUb3M
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3K7e4HW
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/3K6POFN
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/46n9Va3
Website: https://www.NigeriaMiningWeek.com

About Nigeria Mining Week:
Nigeria Mining Week is organised by the Vuka Group (formerly Clarion Events Africa), a leading Cape Town-based and multi-award-winning organiser of exhibitions, conferences and digital events across the continent in the infrastructure, sustainability, energy, mining, mobility, ecommerce and CX sectors. Other well-known events by The Vuka Group include DRC Mining Week (https://apo-opa.co/3K7CKQn), DRC-Africa Battery Metals Forum (https://apo-opa.co/4gpuAyN), Enlit Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4mqbCcX), Africa’s Green Economy Summit (https://apo-opa.co/4pwRyZa), Smarter Mobility Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4nyIu3Y), ECOM Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4gw4Ocn) and CEM Africa (https://apo-opa.co/3Vluuic).

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Qatar Condemns in the Strongest Terms the Large-Scale Ground Offensive Launched by the Israeli Occupation to Seize Control of Gaza

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha| September 17, 2025

The State of Qatar condemns in the strongest terms the large-scale ground offensive launched by the Israeli occupation to seize control of Gaza. It considers this an extension of the war of genocide against the brotherly Palestinian people and a flagrant violation of international law.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns that the Israeli occupation is seeking to undermine the prospects for peace in the region through systematic plans that pose a threat to both regional and international peace and security. These include its brutal genocidal war on Gaza, as well as its settlement, colonial, and racist policies based on a logic of arrogance, aggression, and treachery. This situation requires decisive international solidarity to compel it to comply with international legitimacy resolutions.

The Ministry reiterates the State of Qatar’s firm and permanent position in support of the Palestinian cause and the steadfastness of the brotherly Palestinian people. This position is based on international legitimacy resolutions and the two-state solution, ensuring the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

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New Interim Forest Stewardship Standard Validates Responsible Forest Management in Zambia

Source: APO – Report:

FSC (https://FSC.org) is pleased to announce the official release of the new FSC Interim Forest Stewardship Standard (IFSS) for Zambia. This standard applies to all categories of management units and includes provisions for Small or Low Intensity Managed Forests (SLIMFs) as well as the certification of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs).

Zambian Forests at a glance

In Zambia, forests and related resources are essential for the livelihoods of rural communities. The forest sector contributes 5 – 6% to the country’s GDP and provides formal and informal employment for around 1.1 million people. The government of Zambia aims to manage and enhance forest products and services to mitigate climate change, promote income generation, reduce poverty, create jobs, and protect biodiversity.  Zambia has also committed to restoring 2 million hectares of its forests via the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (afr100) (https://afr100.org/).

Zambian forests play a crucial role in various parts of society, with each group valuing them in different ways. Local communities depend on forests as open resources, using them daily for fuelwood, building materials, food, and to protect soil, water, and farmland. The government considers forests as national assets, managing them to provide timber and generate public income. Meanwhile, industrial entrepreneurs see forests mainly as sources of raw materials for commercial profit. The new IFSS for Zambia contributes to the fulfillment of currently lacking tools, that are necessary to harness the value of forest ecosystem services effectively from the Zambian forests.

Crafting a turning point in sustainable forestry

The new IFSS for Zambia, which incorporates FSC’s latest Principles and Criteria for effective forest management, will take effect on 15 December 2025. This standard represents a significant advancement in FSC’s commitment to promoting sustainable forestry practices in Zambia. It aligns directly with the Zambia Wildlife Act of 2015, as well as the Zambia National Forestry Policy of 2014 and the National REDD+ Strategy (https://apo-opa.co/4n9A7MH). These policies are crucial for implementing the country’s contributions to climate change and ensuring that forests are managed sustainably, delivering a range of economic, social, and environmental benefits to all stakeholders.

The development of this standard took place between 2022 and 2025 and involved two 60-day stakeholder consultation periods and two online consultation meetings. It gained approval on 1 August 2025. With this Interim Forest Stewardship Standard as a practical tool, FSC certification offers a credible, rigorous, and globally respected pathway toward sustainable forest management in Zambia.

The official (English) of the IFSS for Zambia can be downloaded in the FSC Document Centre (https://apo-opa.co/3K3Dg1U). 

– on behalf of Forest Stewardship Council.

Contacts: 
For further inquiries regarding the standard, please contact FSC Country Requirements Team via: country_requirements@fsc.org

Media contacts Southern Africa :
Benjamin Rafemoyo
Market Development Officer, Southern Africa
Phone: +263 86 440 00618
Mobile: +263 77 521 4160

Media contacts Africa:
Israel Bionyi
Senior Regional Communications Manager
FSC Africa
i.bionyi@fsc.org

FSC Africa
www.Africa.FSC.org
T: +49 (0) 228 367 66 0 
F: +49 (0) 228 367 66 65 

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Afreximbank’s Africa Research and Innovation Hub (ARIH) seeks to unlock US$70 billion annual economic gains for Africa

Source: APO

The African Research and Innovation Hub (ARIH) that was recently launched by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) is seeking to unlock up to US$70 billion annually in economic gains for Africa by boosting innovation-driven sustainable growth.

ARIH is expected to catalyse technological sovereignty, intra-African trade, sustainable growth and structural transformation of African economies by fostering scientific research, innovation and commercialisation of homegrown technologies. This is aimed at accelerating intra-African trade and structural transformation by exploiting the organic linkages among academia, industry and policymakers with scalable innovations.

The hub is structured to address the low investment in research and development (R&D) in Africa and the continent’s underperformance in research output. It will tackle this by fostering innovation commercialisation and building partnerships among academia, industry and policymakers in order to double Africa’s R&D expenditure to unlock economic benefits.

Speaking during the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025), Dr. Yemi Kale, Group Chief Economist and Managing Director for Research at Afreximbank, said: “The establishment of the African Research and Innovation Hub marks a pivotal moment for Africa’s scientific and technological ecosystem. It signals Afreximbank’s commitment to harnessing Africa’s homegrown talent and transforming Africa’s intellectual capital into industrial competitiveness, trade expansion and sustainable development.”

Dr. Kale pointed out that Africa currently contributes less than three per cent of global research output, despite the urgent challenges confronting it, saying that “accelerating Africa’s innovation ecosystem to support economic growth, trade diversification and technological sovereignty is, therefore, an objective we are happy to commit to.”

He added that: “Our vision is for ARIH to be a transformational platform that seeks to convert intellectual capital into industrial competitiveness and trade-led growth, recognising that a doubling of Africa’s R&D expenditure by one per cent of GDP could unlock up to US$70 billion annually. We also see ARIH positioning itself as a vital conduit connecting academia, industry, policymakers and investors to accelerate Africa’s path to inclusive and sustainable growth.”

The ARIH activities at IATF2025 included award presentations to 12 groundbreaking research and innovative projects from across Africa and the Caribbean, demonstrating real potential to address Africa’s pressing challenges. Winners were selected from over 200 researchers, students, educators and scientists who submitted applications for a competition initiated by Afreximbank. The awards, which included both certificates and cash prizes were presented by Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President for Intra-African Trade and Export Development.

Commending the winners, Dr. Anthony Coleman, Director for Development Research, Afreximbank, urged them to broaden their innovative horizons to tackle Africa’s technology gaps and development challenges effectively. He assured them of Afreximbank’s commitment to nurturing ARIH as a long-term avenue for Africa’s innovation ecosystem. Dr Coleman further challenged them to sustain the momentum by leveraging the platform as a springboard for collaborative efforts among scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs to advance Africa’s intra-regional trade and economic transformation.

Also participating in the launch were Dr. Kamel Bidari, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Algeria; Dr. Noureddine Ouadah, Minister of Knowledge Economy, Startups, and Microenterprises of Algeria; Mr. Kamal Rezig, Minister of Foreign Trade and Export Promotion of Algeria; Mr. Tiroeaone Ntsima, Minister of Entrepreneurship and Trade of Lesotho; and Mr. Patrick Thierry Akoloza, Minister of Trade and Industry, Central African Republic.

Attended by more than 112,000 visitors from 132 countries, IATF2025, which took place from 4 to 10 September, ended on a remarkably high note with US$48.3 billion in trade and investment deals signed over the seven days of the continental exposition. It welcomed 2,148 exhibitors.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media contact:
media@intrafricatradefair.com
press@afreximbank.com

About the Intra-African Trade Fair:
Organised by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), African Union Commission (AUC) and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is intended to provide a unique platform for facilitating trade and investment information exchange in support of increased intra-African trade and investment, especially in the context of implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). IATF brings together continental and global players to showcase and exhibit their goods and services and to explore business and investment opportunities in the continent. It also provides a platform to share trade, investment and market information with stakeholders and allows participants to discuss and identify solutions to the challenges confronting intra-African trade and investment. In addition to African participants, the Trade Fair is also open to businesses and investors from non-African countries interested in doing business in Africa and in supporting the continent’s transformation through industrialisation and export development.

For more information, please visit www.IntrAfricanTradeFair.com.

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La Banque Ouest Africaine de Developpement (BOAD) Devient Officiellement Membre de l’alliance Mondiale Contre la Faim et la Pauvrete

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Banque Ouest-Africaine de Développement (BOAD) (www.BOAD.org) est fière d’annoncer son adhésion officielle à l’Alliance mondiale contre la faim et la pauvreté. Cette initiative, lancée par la présidence brésilienne du G20, vise à éradiquer la faim et la pauvreté (ODD 1 & 2) et à réduire les inégalités (ODD 10) en soutenant les pays à faible revenu.

En rejoignant les 197 membres de l’Alliance, qui comprennent déjà 102 pays, 29 organisations internationales, 14 institutions financières et 52 fondations, la BOAD s’engage à renforcer ses actions en faveur de la sécurité alimentaire en Afrique de l’Ouest. Cette adhésion, validée en août 2025, permettra à la Banque de bénéficier des synergies internationales et d’accéder à des mécanismes de soutien spécialisés pour atteindre ses objectifs.

L’adhésion de la BOAD s’articule autour de deux piliers majeurs de l’Alliance : le financement et le partage de connaissances. Sur le volet Financement, la Banque partagera ses objectifs de financement de projets axés sur la sécurité alimentaire dans la sous-région, contribuant ainsi à l’effort mondial. Et sur le volet Partage de connaissances, forte de plus de 50 ans d’expérience au service des populations des États membres de l’UEMOA, la BOAD apportera son expertise et son savoir-faire dans la lutte contre l’insécurité alimentaire. En contrepartie, elle bénéficiera de l’expérience d’un vaste réseau de partenaires engagés à trouver des solutions durables à la pauvreté et à la faim dans le monde.

Cette collaboration renforcée permettra à la BOAD d’accélérer la mise en œuvre de programmes à fort impact, en s’appuyant sur les instruments politiques et le soutien financier mobilisés par l’Alliance.

Distribué par APO Group pour Banque Ouest Africaine de Développement (BOAD).

Pour plus d’informations :
Banque Ouest-Africaine de Développement (BOAD)
Département de la Communication et des Relations Publiques 
Tel: + 228 22 23 25 65  
WhatsApp: +228 99 99 32 15 
Fax: + 228 22 23 24 38 
Email: boadsiege@boad.org 

A propos de la Banque Ouest-Africaine de Développement (BOAD) :
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Advisor to Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit Affirms Solidarity with Qatar

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, September 16, 2025

Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, affirmed that the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit, held in Doha yesterday to address the Israeli aggression, was a clear demonstration of Arab and Islamic steadfastness, as well as solidarity with the State of Qatar.

He stressed that Qatar highly values these firm positions and extends its profound appreciation to Their Majesties, Highnesses, and Excellencies, the leaders who responded on such short notice to participate in the summit.

In the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ weekly briefing, Dr. Al Ansari stressed that the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit in Doha sent an unequivocal message that any attack on the State of Qatar is unacceptable to the Arab and Islamic nations as a whole.

He pointed out that the statement issued by the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) at its extraordinary session in Doha yesterday included clear measures to address the Israeli attack. He added that this message of solidarity was significant and resonated internationally — not only in Qatar and across Arab and Islamic countries, but also worldwide.

He noted that the statement explicitly referred to one of the Council’s established mechanisms, which is activated when any of its member states is subjected to aggression. Accordingly, the extraordinary session was convened in Doha in solidarity with the State of Qatar, marking an important step in reaffirming the GCC’s firm stance against attacks on any of its members by external parties. Dr. Al Ansari reiterated that the State of Qatar deeply values this position, and that measures at the executive level will be implemented in the coming days.

In response to a question regarding the imminent signing of a joint defense agreement between the State of Qatar and the United States, and the related statements made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Dr. Al Ansari noted that the matter has been under discussion between the two countries for a long time and is currently in preparation.

He emphasized that the defense partnership between the State of Qatar and the United States has always been robust, particularly in recent years, and continues to grow significantly, representing a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. However, he clarified that he did not have technical details at this stage concerning the potential defense agreement between the two countries.

In this context, Dr. Al Ansari praised the strategic relations between the State of Qatar and the United States, particularly in the field of defense, noting that these ties have witnessed steady growth across various sectors in recent years. He affirmed that the State of Qatar is continuing its efforts to conclude this defense agreement, which was among the topics discussed during the US Secretary of State’s visit to Doha today.

Meanwhile, Dr. Al Ansari stressed that Qatar does not address its strong bilateral relations with the United States through media reports, but rather through official channels. He noted that the US administration has issued clear statements in this regard, and that close communication between the two sides is ongoing.

In this regard, he stressed that the official US position on bilateral relations with Qatar is well known to all. As for individual media reports, Qatar neither engages with them nor builds upon them in the context of bilateral relations. He noted that the statement made yesterday by US President Donald Trump was not the first of its kind.

Dr. Al Ansari added that this was not the first occasion on which President Trump had emphasized this matter; he had also reaffirmed this position during his call with HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, at the time of the Israeli attack on Qatar.

He continued that this is a clear message that the US position is firm regarding any attack on a country that is a strategic ally of the United States, and there is no doubt that communications are ongoing in this regard.

In response to a question about the Israeli Prime Minister’s statement yesterday that the attack on Qatar had not failed and that it conveyed a message, Dr. Al Ansari said: “We are accustomed to the Israeli Prime Minister attempting to justify his failures after every setback resulting from his reckless policies. That is why his message came in this form.”

He added: “We also want to send him a message — that the reckless violation of international law cannot continue, and that targeting a state acting as a mediator is in itself a clear indication that he has no respect for the international community or the principle of mediation. It also demonstrates that he does not even consider the return of his own citizens held hostage in the Gaza Strip to be a priority. His message, therefore, was clear to the international community, which responded through the UN Security Council meeting, as well as through the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit held yesterday in Doha.”

Regarding Qatar’s mediation to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, Dr. Al Ansari said that it does not seem realistic at the present time, especially since the Israeli Prime Minister seeks to assassinate anyone negotiating with him and to target the mediating country with attacks.

He reiterated that Qatar is currently fully focused on defending its national sovereignty, responding to the treacherous Israeli attack, taking all necessary measures to ensure that it is not repeated, and holding those responsible accountable. “All other political considerations are now secondary to the situation we are dealing with today,” he stressed.

He said that Qatar fully understands the United States’ appreciation of its role in mediating and assisting in achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. In this context, he welcomed the extensive cooperation between the two countries on many issues — not only in Gaza but also globally.

Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majid bin Mohammed Al Ansari indicated at the beginning of the media briefing that HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani met Tuesday in his office at the Amiri Diwan with HE Secretary of State of the friendly United States of America Marco Rubio and the accompanying delegation on the occasion of their visit to the country.

During the meeting, they discussed the strategic relations between the two countries and ways to enhance them, especially in the defense fields, in addition to the latest regional and international developments of mutual interest, foremost among them the repercussions of the treacherous Israeli attack on Doha.

He stated that the meeting, attended by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani also addressed the future of joint diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the release of hostages and detainees, and the de-escalation of tensions in the region in general.

Dr. Al Ansari also discussed the outcomes of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit inaugurated yesterday by HH the Amir to discuss the treacherous Israeli aggression against the State of Qatar, with the participation of Their Majesties, Excellencies, Highnesses, and leaders of delegations from Arab and Islamic countries, 57 states in total, who expressed their full solidarity with the State of Qatar and their condemnation of the treacherous and blatant Israeli aggression against its sovereignty.

He said that HH the Amir held, on the sidelines of the summit, a consultative meeting with his brothers, Their Highnesses and Excellencies, leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and heads of delegations. His Highness also met, on the sidelines of the summit, with a number of Their Majesties, Excellencies, Highnesses, and leaders of delegations.

Dr. Al Ansari noted, in a related context, that HH the Amir also held a virtual meeting alongside HM King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and HE President Abdel Fattah El Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt, with HE President Emmanuel Macron of the friendly French Republic, HE Prime Minister of the friendly United Kingdom Keir Starmer, and HE Prime Minister of the friendly Canada Dr. Mark Carney.

He explained that the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit was preceded by a preparatory meeting of foreign ministers, during which HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani expressed in his opening remarks Qatar’s deep appreciation for the broad solidarity from brotherly Arab and Islamic countries and friendly nations in the international community against the barbaric Israeli attack on Qatar.

He pointed out that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs met with a number of ministers and officials on the sidelines of the summit.

His Excellency also met last Sunday with HE British National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell, and Commander of the United States Central Command Admiral Charles Bradford Cooper.

He also noted that HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi headed the Qatari delegation last Thursday at the 8th Joint Ministerial Meeting of the Strategic Dialogue Between the GCC and the Russian Federation in Sochi, Russia, where His Excellency met on the sidelines of the meeting with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov.

He explained that within the framework of the preparatory ministerial meeting for the Arab-Islamic Summit, HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs of the Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Badr Abdel Aati.

Her Excellency also met with HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov.

Last Thursday, Her Excellency met with HE Minister of International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade of the Kingdom of Sweden Benjamin Dousa, and received a phone call from HE Minister for International Development of Australia Anne Aly.

The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during the weekly media briefing, pointed out that an emergency session of the Human Rights Council (HRC) was held Tuesday in Geneva regarding the attack on the State of Qatar, during which HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad delivered Qatar’s statement.

She affirmed that Israel deliberately targeted the State of Qatar (the mediator) to sabotage peace efforts, and that Israel’s targeting of peace efforts disrupts the opportunity to save lives in the Gaza Strip.

She stated that the Israeli attack on the State of Qatar is part of a broader campaign aimed at undermining and discrediting its efforts.

Her Excellency also affirmed Qatar’s commitment to mediation efforts and the promotion of peace, and stressed Qatar’s unequivocal condemnation of Israel’s aggression against it and its demand for measures to prevent impunity.

On the humanitarian aid level and in continuation of Qatar’s efforts to support the brotherly Syrian people, Dr. Al Ansari stated that the State of Qatar, in cooperation with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, sent humanitarian aid last Thursday to the Syrian Arab Republic.

He mentioned that this humanitarian aid, provided by the Qatar Fund For Development (QFFD) and Qatar Charity in cooperation with the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization (JHCO), included 24 trucks carrying essential food supplies and medicines to various regions in brotherly Syria.

He affirmed that this aid reflects the State of Qatar’s keenness to contribute to meeting the humanitarian and health needs of the brotherly Syrian people and to enhance joint humanitarian work to stand by them.

Regarding Afghanistan, he pointed out that a tenth aircraft belonging to the Qatari Amiri Air Force arrived in the capital, Kabul, carrying urgent medical aid provided by the QFFD to support the health sector, as part of the air bridge operated by the State of Qatar to help alleviate the suffering of the brotherly Afghan people following the earthquake that struck the eastern part of the country.

He said that this aid included essential medicines, intravenous solutions, and a number of vital materials necessary to save lives, with the aim of strengthening the capacity of hospitals and frontline health facilities to meet urgent needs.