Category: MIL-OSI

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Advisor to Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Convening of Gulf and Arab-Islamic Summits A Historic Event Reflecting Unity of Gulf, Arab, and Islamic Ranks

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 convening of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit Monday in Doha, as well as the convening of the Extraordinary Session of the Supreme Council of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf regarding the Israeli aggression against the State of Qatar, constitutes a historic event that reflects the unity of the Gulf, Arab, and Islamic ranks.

During a press conference held following the conclusion of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit, attended by HE Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, HE Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Ambassador Yousef Al Dobeay, and HE Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Ambassador Hossam Zaki, Al Ansari said that this event that took place in the capital Doha, at the invitation of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani clearly demonstrated the spirit of solidarity among the Arab and Muslim brothers with the State of Qatar following the brutal Israeli aggression that took place on the 9th of this month.

He expressed the State of Qatar’s deep appreciation and gratitude to all the brotherly Arab and Islamic countries for their solidarity with Qatar in the wake of this aggression, explaining that Arab and Muslim leaders gathered in Doha today to express a unified and strong stance against the treacherous Israeli aggression on the State of Qatar, affirming that targeting the sovereignty of an Arab and Islamic state, and a member of the United Nations, constitutes a dangerous escalation and a direct threat to regional and international peace and security.

The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that this summit is not merely an emergency meeting, but a clear message to the entire world that the Arab and Islamic countries reject aggression, uphold justice and international legitimacy, and affirm that the Palestinian cause will remain at the heart of priorities until the Palestinian people attain their full legitimate rights.

He pointed out that two statements were issued today by the emergency Gulf and Arab-Islamic summits, in which they clearly condemned the Israeli attack and stated that the Israeli behavior and the justifications it relies on are completely invalid, saying in this regard that the evidence for this is what Their Majesties, Excellencies, and Highnesses the leaders confirmed in their statements that all the justifications provided to legitimize this attack on the State of Qatar are invalid under international law and also under all the principles upon which the international community is based.

Al Ansari noted that the two statements issued by the emergency Gulf and Arab-Islamic summits included many steps within the framework of coordination and joint Arab action.

For his part, HE Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi reviewed the key points contained in the final statement of the Extraordinary Session of the Supreme Council of the GCC, explaining that the convening of this summit came to affirm the Gulf position in solidarity with the State of Qatar in facing the recent Israeli attacks.

During the press conference, HE Al Budaiwi explained that the Supreme Council of the GCC condemned the Israeli violations against the sovereignty of the State of Qatar and the targeting of civilians and residential facilities, indicating that the leaders of the Council’s member states described the recent aggression as a serious escalation and a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter, and a direct threat to Gulf security and stability.

According to HE Al Budaiwi, the leaders affirmed that the security of GCC states is indivisible, and that any attack on a member state is considered an attack on all, stressing that all capabilities of the Council will be harnessed to protect the State of Qatar and preserve its sovereignty.

He pointed out that the leaders instructed the GCC Joint Defense Council to hold an urgent meeting in Doha to assess the defense situation and sources of threat in light of the recent Israeli aggression, noting that the summit’s statement called on the Security Council and active countries in the international community to assume their responsibilities and take firm measures to stop Israeli aggressive practices that undermine peace efforts and threaten international peace and security.

He also noted that the statement praised the efforts of Qatar’s security and civil defense agencies for their swift response, containment of the attack’s repercussions, and protection of civilians.

Al Budaiwi emphasized that the Israeli aggression hinders the vital role of the State of Qatar in mediation efforts, calling on peace-loving nations worldwide to condemn the Israeli crimes and work to unify international efforts to confront them.

HE the Secretary-General of the GCC stressed that the convening of the emergency Gulf and Arab-Islamic summits reflects the great stature and credibility the State of Qatar enjoys regionally and internationally.

For his part, HE Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Ambassador Yousef Al Dobeay addressed the key points issued in the final statement of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit.

He noted that the high-level presence of leaders from Arab countries and the OIC during the summit was a message to the whole world that the sovereignty and territory of the State of Qatar must not be violated, as it is a pivotal country that plays an internationally accepted and agreed-upon mediation role, especially regarding Gaza.

HE Al Dobeay said during the press conference that the convening of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit under the current circumstances is a message of solidarity, support, and endorsement of all the measures the State of Qatar is taking to confront the Israeli aggression on its territories, underscoring that any violation of Arab and Islamic lands is a red line that must not be crossed in any form.

He praised the civilized and responsible conduct demonstrated by the State of Qatar in handling this event, which reinforces its well-known image of a diplomatic model committed to international law.

For his part, HE Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Ambassador Hossam Zaki expressed the Arab League’s appreciation to the State of Qatar for hosting and organizing this major conference, highlighting its importance in enhancing Arab and Islamic solidarity.

During the press conference, he clarified that the speeches delivered by the participating kings, presidents, and leaders expressed a unified stance in support of Qatar’s mediation efforts, confirming the support of all participating countries in the summit for Qatar in these critical political initiatives.

He indicated that the final statement of the Doha Summit addressed several core issues, including condemnation of Israeli attacks and reaffirmation of Qatar’s vital role in conflict mediation. He also noted the cooperation between Qatar and sister countries such as the Arab Republic of Egypt, as well as several African countries, in achieving stable and developmental peaceful solutions.

HE the Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States stated that the summit focused on holding Israel fully responsible for the deterioration of the situation in the region and its violation of international law and order, considering the outcomes of this meeting an important step towards addressing the current developments in the region.

Moreover, the speakers at the press conference emphasized the importance of maintaining regional stability through adherence to international laws and norms, confirming that mediation and diplomatic efforts are the optimal path to avoid escalation and protect civilians.

They also called on all parties to respect the outcomes of the Arab and Islamic summits and adhere to the implementation of the recommendations and statements issued, noting that Arab unity and solidarity are key elements in facing the current challenges.

They also underscored that the efforts of the Arab League have continued since the events of October 7, with the Arab-Islamic Committee playing an important role in addressing many complex issues, including some sensitive individual files. 

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Transforming Grant Funding to Accelerate Energy Access in Africa – ENGIE Energy Access Publishes New White Paper

Source: APO

ENGIE Energy Access (EEA) (https://Engie-EnergyAccess.com), Africa’s leading off-grid solar provider, has released a new White Paper, “Maximising Impact: Transforming Grant Funding for Energy Access”, calling for a fundamental shift in how grant capital is deployed to close Africa’s energy access gap. 

Sub-Saharan Africa stands at a critical crossroads. With less than five years to 2030, the goal to ensure affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all is at risk of being missed. At the current pace, over 660 million people will remain unelectrified by 2030. Given energy is a critical enabler for other development outcomes, this threatens progress on health, education, economic development and other closely linked goals. 

Off-grid solar and mini-grid solutions can deliver 40% of the needed connections under a least-cost model. However, key challenges are impeding progress, with a current funding gap of $12 billion for standalone systems, and a funding landscape that is fragmented, risk-averse, and at times, misaligned with the realities of operating in frontier markets. This is putting SDG7 out of reach and leaving millions without access to affordable and modern energy. 

EEA’s White Paper argues that grant funding, while essential, is not being used to its full catalytic potential. Drawing on nearly two decades of last-mile delivery experience across nine African countries, the paper highlights how rethinking funding design could unlock private sector capacity and deliver impact at scale. 

Key recommendations include: 

  • Reorienting grant targeting toward closing the access gap and “finishing the job” on SDG7 
  • Tailoring instruments to market segments (households, businesses, and community infrastructure) and risk profiles. 
  • Scaling up grants, with the public sector strengthening their leadership role. 
  • Strengthening delivery systems and governance to ensure transparent, efficient, and sustainable implementation. 

“Public funding is vital to accelerate universal energy access where affordability remains one of the main drivers. To deliver the highest results without shaking market fundamentals, it must be structured to unlock private investment and delivery capacity. Our White Paper sets out practical ways to maximise its impact, drawn directly from our operational realities in rural areas in Sub-Saharan Africa.,” said Gillian-Alexandre Huart, CEO of ENGIE Energy Access. 

This moment, marked by new initiatives like Mission 300 and the phase-out of legacy programs, is a unique opportunity to reset strategy and coordination. If we miss it, the risks are substantial: diluted impact, loss of SDG7 credibility, eroded investor confidence, and disengagement from the private sector. 

ENGIE Energy Access calls on policymakers, donors, financiers, and industry stakeholders to engage with the findings and join in advancing solutions that can help close the energy access gap faster, while supporting economic growth, resilience, and climate goals. 

The White Paper is available for download here : New White Paper | Maximising Impact: Transforming Grant Funding for Energy Access – Engie energy Access (https://apo-opa.co/4n8JeNF)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Engie Energy Access.

Contact: 
press.eea@engie.com

About ENGIE Energy Access:
ENGIE Energy Access is the leading Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGo) and mini-grids solutions provider in Africa. The company develops innovative, off-grid solar solutions for homes, public services, and businesses, providing customers and distribution partners with access to clean, affordable energy. The PAYGo solar home systems are financed through affordable instalments and the mini-grids foster economic development by enabling electrical productive use and facilitating business opportunities for entrepreneurs in rural communities. ENGIE Energy Access counts 1,600 employees, has operations in nine countries across Africa (Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia), and delivers clean, affordable energy to more than 3 million customers. Read more on: www.Engie-EnergyAccess.com 

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KZN Transport launches recruitment drive for traffic officers

Source: Government of South Africa

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport has commenced the recruitment of traffic officers as part of its efforts to build a safer and more prosperous province for all citizens and future generations.

Transport MEC Siboniso Duma unveiled the strategic recruitment drive aimed at strengthening the province’s Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), described as a highly dedicated and efficient law enforcement unit.

“We are looking for honest, hard-working and fit South Africans to join our highly efficient and dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate,” Duma said over the weekend.

He said the department plans to recruit 278 traffic officers, including one Control Provincial Inspector, 10 Senior Provincial Inspectors, 67 Provincial Inspectors, and 200 Trainee Provincial Inspectors.

According to Duma, the initiative forms part of the province’s Zero Tolerance – No Nonsense Alufakwa campaign, which aims to foster a culture of responsible behaviour on the road by targeting motorists who drink and drive.

Duma noted that reckless and negligent driving remain a serious concern, with more than 160 motorists arrested in August alone for driving under the influence. The arrests include a senior public prosecutor, two police officers and a correctional services official, among others.

“It is very disappointing that civil servants tasked with the responsibility to enforce the law and uphold it were caught breaking it,” Duma said.

He confirmed that the case involving the senior prosecutor has been formally enrolled in court, with proceedings postponed to October 2025, pending the outcome of forensic blood test results.

“The arrest of a senior public prosecutor — someone entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the law — strikes at the very heart of the justice system and is viewed by this department with the utmost seriousness. We expect that the matter will be handled with transparency, integrity, and in full accordance with the law,” Duma said.

He said his department, in collaboration with the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster, is actively monitoring this case and other cases involving law enforcement officers.

“These developments have been formally raised for discussion within the Cluster to strengthen oversight and accountability mechanisms across the criminal justice value chain. We remain resolute in our mandate to rid our roads of reckless and intoxicated drivers, regardless of rank or profession,” Duma said.

The MEC also commended RTI officers and stakeholders for their continued vigilance and dedication in protecting the lives of innocent citizens, despite limited resources.

“The safety of all road users remains our top priority.”

Application Process

Applications for traffic officer posts may be hand-delivered to the Department of Transport at Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House, 172 Burger Street, Pietermaritzburg, or couriered to: Recruitment & Selection Section, Human Resource Administration Directorate, Private Bag X9043, Pietermaritzburg, 3200.

Applicants are also encouraged to apply online via the KZN e-Recruitment system at www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs. – SAnews.gov.za

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SA joins international community to observe World Ozone Day

Source: Government of South Africa

As South Africa joins the world in celebrating World Ozone Day 2025, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has reflected on the importance of ozone protection, while highlighting measures that South Africa has implemented to protect the ozone layer. 

The Minister on Tuesday highlighted that the ozone also plays an important role in the fight against climate change, as many of the ozone depleting chemicals are potent greenhouse gases.

Also known as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, World Ozone Day is observed annually on 16 September as a global reminder of the importance of protecting the ozone layer. 

The ozone layer is the invisible shield in the Earth’s stratosphere that absorbs most of the harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun, preventing them from reaching the surface, thus protecting humans, animals, plants, biodiversity, oceans and ecosystems from extensive damage. 

Without the ozone layer, there would be significantly higher cases of skin cancers, cataracts, crop failures, biodiversity loss and long-term damages to oceans and ecosystems.

This year’s theme for World Ozone Day captures the scientific essence of the global ozone protection journey, while remembering how the world united to respond after the 1970s to 1980s discovery that human-made chemicals had caused severe thinning of the ozone layer.

This thinning created the “ozone hole” over Antarctica. Subsequently, nations from around the globe gathered 40 years ago, under the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone, where they agreed to take appropriate measures to protect the ozone layer. 

This gathering culminated in the 1987 signing of the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer.

 “Since then, South Africa has made some progress. We have phased out chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) which are widely used in air conditioners, refrigerators and aerosols sprays; halons used in fire extinguishers; while some of the hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in refrigerators, air conditioners, and foam sector, are being phased down. 

The Ventilation Refrigeration Air-conditioning and Heat Pump industries is also making progress in efforts to save our ozone layer by adopting safer refrigerants and investing in sustainable technologies as well as training employees on best practices and monitoring refrigerant use,” the Minister said.

Furthermore, some individuals and communities have become more conscious of their choices. They contribute to ozone protection by choosing energy-efficient appliances, servicing air conditioners and refrigerators, and safe disposal of old equipment. 

There have also been significant developments toward the reduction of carbon emissions as part of the Just Energy Transition.

For instance, the Minister recently published the draft National Greenhouse Gas Carbon Budget and Mitigation Plan Regulations, which will facilitate South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy and ensure compliance with international obligations. 

Another carbon emission reduction effort includes the stricter exemptions for Eskom power stations, where each facility has to adhere to stringent conditions to mitigate the impacts of non-compliance with the minimum emission standards, while balancing energy security, economic stability, and environmental protection.

“Much more needs to be done and each one of us plays a part in securing a healthier atmosphere and the recovery of the ozone layer, not only for the present, but for the benefit of future generations,” George said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Royal African Society announces Film Africa 2025, 14 – 23 November

Source: APO

London is set to be ignited with the spirit of Africa as Film Africa, the UK’s and Europe’s leading film festival celebrating African and African diaspora cinema, running from 14–23 November 2025, brought to you by the Royal African Society (https://RoyalAfricanSociety.org).

For ten dazzling days, the city will transform into a hub of African creativity—red-carpet galas, groundbreaking films, engaging workshops delivered by leading experts, intimate panels, and unforgettable cultural encounters. This year’s edition will showcase the richness, diversity, and creativity of African filmmaking through a carefully curated programme of feature films, documentaries, shorts, panel discussions, and special events.

The festival will open and close at the BFI Southbank, with gala screenings attended by distinguished filmmakers, artists, corporate organisations, and cultural leaders. The festival opens with My Father’s Shadow by Director Akinola Davies Jr. and will close with Katanga by Director Dani Kouyate.

Spotlight on the Democratic Republic of Congo

The 2025 spotlight shines on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a nation with a powerful cinematic voice and vibrant cultural heritage. The spotlight programme will feature a mix of features, documentaries, and shorts, exploring Congolese identity, memory, and history.

The Opening Gala screening welcomes celebrated Congolese filmmaker and artist Sammy Baloji, alongside invited guests from across Africa and Europe, marking a moment of cultural pride and connection.

Features, Documentaries & Shorts

Expect an explosive mix of African feature films from across the continent, bringing together both seasoned masters and daring emerging voices. These works will address themes ranging from migration, social change and resilience to the beauty of everyday life African life.

The documentary strand will take audiences deep into Africa’s urgent social, political, and cultural realities, offering insightful perspectives on contemporary issues, while the short film programme will showcase new voices and experimental work, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

Beyond the Screen

Film Africa is a hub for dialogue, and the festival thrives on conversations.  Q&A sessions and panels will bring audiences face-to-face with filmmakers giving audiences insights into creative processes and thematic choices.

The intellectual centrepiece of the festival will be the Symposium: African Cinema and Liberation, featuring a landmark conversation between Mozambican producer Pedro Pimenta and celebrated artist-filmmaker Sir John Akomfrah. Together, they will explore the role of cinema in resisting colonial narratives and advancing African cultural sovereignty.

Kunle Afolayan Masterclass

A rare highlight, Film Africa is delighted to host a special masterclass with Kunle Afolayan, one of Africa’s most acclaimed and influential filmmakers. Renowned for his distinctive storytelling and visually striking films, expect insights into his Netflix collaborations, his groundbreaking approach to storytelling, and his mission to inspire the next generation of African filmmakers. Kunle Afolayan will be in conversation with film and television executive Tendeka Matatu.

From his breakthrough feature The Figurine (2009) to international successes such as Phone Swap (2012), October 1 (2014), Citation (2020), and Aníkúlápó (2022), Afolayan has consistently pushed Nollywood beyond its traditional frameworks, fusing local narratives with universal themes and technical innovation.

This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from a director whose work embodies the energy, ambition, and artistry of contemporary African cinema.

Tribute to Souleymane Cissé

Film Africa 2025 will also pay tribute to Souleymane Cissé, the legendary Malian filmmaker who passed away in February 2025. His groundbreaking work, including the Cannes Jury Prize–winning Yeelen (The Light), redefined African cinema and brought it global recognition. The tribute will include a retrospective of Cissé’s films alongside a personal documentary by his daughter, Fatou Cissé, chronicling his life and artistic journey.

Looking Ahead

From BFI Southbank to venues across London, Film Africa 2025 is cinema, culture, and conversation on a global stage. For ten days, African stories will take centre stage, resonating far beyond the screen to spark dialogue, inspire change, and celebrate creativity.

Royal African Society’s Film Africa 2025 reaffirms its mission to provide a vital platform for African cinema and to foster dialogue between filmmakers and audiences. The ten days will unfold across multiple venues in London, creating a citywide celebration of African creativity and innovation.

With its mix of screenings, live discussions, and special events, Film Africa is more than a festival, it is a movement, a celebration, and a meeting place for those passionate about Africa’s stories.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Royal African Society.

Media Contact:
Sophie Toumazis
TPR Media
Email: sophie@tpr-media.com

About Film Africa:
Film Africa is the UK’s and Europe’s largest, premier film festival celebrating the best African cinema from across the continent and diaspora brought to you by the Royal African Society. Established in 2011, the festival brings diverse London and UK audiences a high-quality and wide-ranging film program accompanied by a vibrant series of events, including director Q&As, talks, and panel discussions; workshops and masterclasses; Film Africa Young Audiences school screenings and family activities; and Film Africa LIVE! music nights. Film Africa also recognises and supports new film-making talent through the Baobab Award for Best Short Film and the Audience Award for Best Feature Film. 

About The Royal African Society:
The Royal African Society, established in 1901, is one of the UK’s oldest and most respected institutions dedicated to promoting a deeper understanding of Africa and fostering stronger relations between the UK, Africa, and the wider world. Through conferences, cultural festivals, publications, and policy dialogues, the Society brings together business leaders, artists, academics, policymakers and civil society to showcase Africa’s achievements and address its challenges.

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One Month to Go Until African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 – Africa’s Premier Gathering for Mining Stakeholders

Source: APO


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With just one month to go before the African Mining Week (AMW) conference, global mining stakeholders are preparing for industry-shaping discussions, deal signings and new partnerships at Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders. 

Scheduled for October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town, AMW takes place under the theme From Extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth, uniting African stakeholders with global partners to enhance investment flows across the mining value chain. 

AMW 2025 has confirmed the participation of six African mining ministers including Martin Gama Abucha, Minister of Mining for South Sudan; Winston Chitando, Minister of Mines and Mining Development for Zimbabwe; Kenneth Zikhale Reeves Ng’oma, Minister of Mining for Malawi; Teddy Lwamba, Minister of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC); Emmanuel Kofi Buah, Ghana’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources; and Karim Badawi, Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources. The ministers will engage in the Ministerial Forum, exclusive fireside chats and country spotlights, where they are expected to showcase policies aimed at attracting investments. The event will also feature high-level regulatory authorities including Moses Micheal Engadu, Secretary General of the African Union’s Africa Minerals Strategy Group and Khadidja Hassane Abdoulaye, Secretary of State for Petroleum, Mines and Geology for Chad. 

Sponsored by various stakeholders from across the industry, including the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), Rand Refinery, Sidley Austin, OilDynamics, Moore Global and Power Trake, AMW will unite global investors with African projects. The event will feature investors such as the AFC, International Development Corporation of South Africa, African Infrastructure Investment Managers, World Mining Investment and Standard Bank, showcasing financing tools and strategies driving capital flows into Africa’s mining and infrastructure projects. 

In support of Africa’s mineral production increase agenda, AMW 2025 will feature leading mineral producers, showcasing industry milestones, ongoing projects and strategies for resource development and monetization. Participating producers include Implats, Valterra Platinum, Ivanhoe Mines, Pensana, B2Gold, First Quantum Minerals, Goldfields and Typhoon Greenfield Development. 

In addition, downstream players such as Rand Refinery – one of the world’s largest integrated metal refining facilities – Isondo Precious Metals, Toyota SA and others will highlight value-addition strategies in support of Africa’s beneficiation and local processing drive. 

AMW will also spotlight the energy–mining nexus, featuring insights from Francesco La Camera, Secretary General, International Renewable Energy Agency, and representatives from renewables firms JUWI, Solink and energy services company OilDynamics. The conference will run in parallel with African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies, creating a platform for collaboration between energy and mining stakeholders. 

AMW 2025’s three-day agenda will also feature contributions from research institutions, academia and legal experts, including S&P Global Insights, Columbia Business School, Chatham House, Sidley Austin, Moore Global, Minexx, and Project Blue, who are expected to shape discussions on policy, market trends and the future of African mining. 

The event will also feature an exhibition space, showcasing technologies, services and expertise from across the mining value chain. With one month to go, stakeholders have time to secure their place at Africa’s premier mining event. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com. 

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

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Housing beneficiary drive held successfully in Cape Town

Source: Government of South Africa

The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure successfully hosted a housing beneficiary verification drive in Subcouncil 14 of the City of Cape Town.

This drive, held over the past weekend, provided residents already registered in the housing demand database with the opportunity to review and update their registration details.

“We aim to ensure a fair and transparent beneficiary process. Residents in this area have waited a very long time for housing opportunities, and we must make sure that the correct individuals benefit from our housing projects,” Western Cape Infrastructure MEC, Tertuis Simmers, said on Monday.

The Welmoed development is part of the Southern Corridor Integrated Human Settlements Programme, with the first phase set to deliver 3 296 housing opportunities.

These will include a mix of affordable housing, mixed-use options, and private development units.

According to the provincial department, beneficiaries will be drawn from subcouncil 14 and surrounding informal settlements.

Subcouncil 14 includes Amandelsig, Kuils River, Zevenwacht, Oakdene, Sarepta, Blackheath, Blue Downs, Eerste River, Dennemere, Welmoed, Kalkfontein, Mfuleni, and their surrounding areas.

The ward numbers are Ward 11, Ward 14, Ward 16, Ward 17, Ward 19, Ward 108, and Ward 114.

The Welmoed project will also create economic growth and provide up to 6 000 job opportunities.

Part of the development plan requires contractors to employ local labour and subcontractors from the Subcouncil 14 area.

“The Welmoed project is about much more than just housing units. Together, we are building resilient communities, restoring dignity, and creating thousands of job opportunities that will transform the lives of our people. Through infrastructure, we are building an inclusive, prosperous future for all,” Simmers said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Operation Shanela II  makes progress

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Nationwide Shanela II operations have led to the arrest of over 15 000 suspects, said the South African Police Service (SAPS).

In a statement on Monday, the police said 15 763 suspects were arrested for various offences, including 2 133 wanted individuals who were tracked down in different parts of the country.

The arrests were made between 8 and 14 September 2025.

“Also, among those arrested are 265 suspects apprehended for rape, of which 92 were circulated as wanted. Forty-one of these suspects were apprehended in Gauteng province,” said the police.

Other arrests include 160 suspects arrested for murder. The majority were apprehended in the Western Cape (41), followed by the Eastern Cape (32) and Gauteng (30). A further 143 suspects were arrested for attempted murder, while 1 610 suspects were arrested for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Over 1 000 suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs. Meanwhile, police seized 146 unlicensed firearms and 66 stolen and hijacked vehicles were recovered.

An alleged hijacking suspect was fatally wounded during a shootout with the police and private security in KwaZulu-Natal’s the South Coast.  Police seized a signal jammer and an unlicensed firearm, along with a stolen Quantum minibus taxi.

“Police also arrested a 26-year-old suspect in connection with a double murder that occurred in Wallacedene, Kraaifontein, in the early hours of Sunday morning (4 September).

Still in the Western Cape, police arrested a 24-year-old suspect, who allegedly murdered a man at the Athlone Magistrates Court last week. The suspect was found admitted at a local hospital with gunshot wounds he sustained during a shootout with other gang members.

The police said the arrests are a testament to the men and women in blue’s unwavering commitment to prevent and combat serious and violent crimes, adding that each arrest is step closer towards a safer South Africa for all. – SAnews.gov.za

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Collaboration is key for success of MSMEs

Source: Government of South Africa

The Deputy Minister of Finance, Ashor Sarupen, has emphasised the importance of governments, the private sector, development finance institutions, and multilateral partners working together to create an enabling environment for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to succeed. 

Addressing an official side event of South Africa’s Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency, Sarupen highlighted that MSMEs are the backbone of every economy – accounting for over 90% of businesses globally.

“The private sector plays a key role—not only in providing capital, but also in driving innovation and market access. Emerging partnerships with non-bank finance actors—such as equity, crowdfunding, and venture capital—are promising and must be scaled to close the MSME funding gap,” the Deputy Minister said on Monday in Johannesburg.

In South Africa, MSMEs represent 91% of formal businesses, provide 60% of jobs, and contribute up to 34% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).  

“Their impact is clear, and so is our responsibility to create an environment that enables their success. The informal sector also holds potential to address unemployment yet remains excluded from adequate support. It contributes 6% to GDP and 17% to employment but continues to struggle with growth and productivity,” Sarupen said.

He was addressing the Global SME Finance Forum – an official side event of the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion Working Group.

“In line with the G20/ Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Principles on SME Financing, we must support diverse instruments, enhance transparency, improve financial literacy, and promote timely payments. Together, we can build ecosystems that are inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready,” he explained.

Inclusive financial sector

South Africa’s efforts include the National Treasury’s Financial Inclusion Policy, approved in 2023, which sets a framework to build a more inclusive financial sector. 

It focuses on deepening inclusion for individuals, expanding access to MSMEs, and diversifying financial channels.

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Eskom historical steam locomotives to be preserved

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Eskom has entered into a lease agreement for its historically significant steam locomotives in a bid to ensure the locomotives’ preservation and continued operation.

The power utility announced on Monday that the successful bidder for the five-year lease is New Cape Central Railway Ltd.

“At Eskom, we acknowledge our duty not only to deliver electricity but also to safeguard the valuable heritage assets entrusted to us.

“By opting for a lease arrangement rather than a sale, Eskom retains custodianship of these assets, affirming its commitment to heritage preservation as a proudly South African company,” Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said.

Eskom Rotek Industries Chief Executive Officer, Hector Danisa, said: “These iconic locomotives have powered the energy industry for more than a century. This milestone demonstrates our shared commitment to persevering them and making them accessible through structured partnerships, keeping their legacy for many years to come.

“They form a vital part of South Africa’s industrial and cultural legacy and rich history.”

The handover of the historical locomotives – held at Eskom Rotek Industries – coincides with South Africa’s Heritage Month, held under the theme, “Reimagine Heritage Institutions for a New Era”.

In that vein, Eskom explained that the locomotives were leased to a “qualified heritage organisation, ensuring their preservation and continued operation”.

“This process was conducted in close consultation with the South African Heritage Resources Agency and the Heritage Railway Association of South Africa, who provided guidance to ensure compliance with national heritage standards.

“The treasured collection of these locomotives was once housed at the South African National Rail and Steam Museum in Krugersdorp. Originally intended for restoration and public exhibition, these locomotives were retrieved from the now-defunct museum.

“Eskom has now entered into this lease agreement for these locomotives, thereby securing a new future for these pieces of South African rail history,” the power utility said. – SAnews.gov.za