Source: Government of Qatar
Doha, September 15, 2025
HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met HE the US Special Envoy for Syria Thomas Barrack, who is currently visiting the country.
During the meeting, they reviewed the latest developments in Syria and discussed avenues of cooperation between the State of Qatar and the United States to support stability in the country.
Source: Government of Qatar
Doha, September 15, 2025
HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met on Monday with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Community abroad of the sisterly People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria Ahmed Attaf, on the sidelines of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit hosted by Doha today.
During the meeting, the two sides reviewed the cooperative relations between the countries and ways to support and strengthen them, as well as developments in the region, particularly the treacherous Israeli attack targeting Doha.
HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed that the State of Qatar will take all necessary measures to protect its security and safeguard its sovereignty in response to the blatant Israeli attack.
For his part, the Algerian Foreign Minister reiterated his country’s full solidarity with the State of Qatar, describing the Israeli attack as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and international law.
Source: Government of Qatar
Doha, September 15,2025
HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov, on the sidelines of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit hosted by Doha on Monday.
During the meeting, they reviewed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them, as well as developments in the region, particularly the treacherous Israeli attack that targeted Doha.
HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed during the meeting that the State of Qatar will take all necessary measures to protect its security and preserve its sovereignty in the face of the blatant Israeli attack.
For his part, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan expressed his country’s solidarity with the State of Qatar and described the Israeli attack as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and international law.
Source: Government of Qatar
Doha, September 15, 2025
HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met on Monday with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants of the Republic of Lebanon Youssef Raggi, on the sidelines of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit hosted by Doha on Monday.
During the meeting, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them, as well as developments in the region, particularly the treacherous Irsaeli attack that targted Doha.
HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed during the meeting that the State of Qatar will take all necessary measures to protect its security and preserve its sovereignty in the face of the blatant Israeli attack.
For his part, HE the Lebanese Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated his country’s solidarity with the State of Qatar, describing the Israeli attack as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and international law.
Source: APO
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 recently. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative and H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of the Republic of Kenya and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” along with First Ladies of Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Maldives, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe, Senegal, and Zimbabwe.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “I was a pleasure meeting my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of the Republic of Kenya and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” for the 7th Edition of our Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit. I am proud to share that provided 244 scholarships for local Kenyan doctors in many critical and underserved specialties like Fertility & Embryology, Oncology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Gastroenterology, Respiratory Medicine, Acute Medicine, Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Neonatal Medicine, Urology, Pain Management, Critical Care, Rheumatology and more. And around 50% of these scholarships are provided to female healthcare providers which is a great milestone of women empowerment.”
H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother emphasized, “I am very proud of our partnership with Merck Foundation. Together, we are strengthening and transforming our public healthcare landscape, through the 244 scholarships provided for our doctors. This is an extraordinary milestone that will leave a lasting impact on the quality and accessibility of healthcare across our nation.
Additionally, we are also supporting girl education through the ‘Educating Linda’ program by sponsoring the education of 47 underprivileged yet high-performing Kenyan schoolgirls, until they graduate.”
Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4nt1nVZ
Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.co/46skWaf
On day 2 of the Summit, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African and Asian First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.
Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/42yNcGT
Together with Kenya First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 224 scholarships for young doctors in many critical and underserved specialties. Out of the 244 scholarships:
Overall, Merck Foundation has so far provided 2280 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 underserved medical specialties.
“We have always believed in the importance of building healthcare capacity and have been working for it since 2012. We will continue to build and enhance healthcare capacity in the Kenya and the rest of the Africa and beyond”, added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.
Merck Foundation has also conducted 3 editions of their Online Health Media Training, to emphasize on the important role of media to address these critical social and health issues and be the voice of the voiceless.
Moreover, Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Kenya for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.
Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Kenya, Merck Foundation has also launched seven children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, and “Mark’s Pressure”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness. The storybooks will soon also be launched in Swahili language.
The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:
@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4pnFIR1), X (https://apo-opa.co/3K1Byhw), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/46CeFd8), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3VeEXvN).
@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4nwu30f), X (https://apo-opa.co/47JG2TH), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3IoMQf4), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4ppFQzc).
Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4nwbZ6E
Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:
• 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:
• 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs
• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
• 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese
• 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.
• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community
• 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4pnFIR1
X: https://apo-opa.co/3K1Byhw
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3VeEXvN
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/46CeFd8
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4gts4HY
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/3VeER7p
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/42wgWEe
About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4pnFIR1), X (https://apo-opa.co/3K1Byhw), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/46CeFd8), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3VeEXvN), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4gts4HY) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3VeER7p).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – French
Fatma Zohra Bendjelida a été couronnée gagnante du premier concours ‘’Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) Junior Chef ‘’qui célèbre la créativité et le talent des jeunes chefs en herbe dans la cuisine et la culture africaines.
Loubna Ali Cherif et Aouis Akkouch ont respectivement remporté la deuxième et la troisième place de ce concours ouvert aux jeunes chefs algériens âgés de 16 à 21 ans. Les participants devaient préparer des plats à base d’ingrédients et de traditions africains.
La compétition culinaire finale, d’une durée de deux jours, s’est déroulée en marge de la récente et très réussie Foire commerciale intra-africaine 2025 (IATF2025). Huit finalistes se sont affrontés pour remporter des prix en espèces, des médailles et des séances de mentorat dispensées par des leaders du secteur. Les juges comprenaient le chef Robert, Rabah Ourrad, Andile Sondaka et Taymor Mason. Mme Chinelo Oramah, Directrice du Réseau des épouses d’Afreximbank (ASNET), ainsi que les chefs Coco et Stone ont également fait une apparition spéciale au sein du jury.
Lors de la cérémonie de remise des prix, la Première dame du Zimbabwe, S.E. Auxillia Mnangagwa a appelé à soutenir les festivals culinaires, à encourager l’innovation des jeunes dans l’industrie culinaire, et à investir dans des plateformes pour que les cuisines africaines brillent sur la scène mondiale et pour que la richesse culinaire devienne une force d’unité, d’autonomisation et de prospérité.
« La gastronomie peut devenir une plate-forme unificatrice pour la culture, le tourisme et le développement économique au niveau local. Élément majeur du patrimoine immatériel, le tourisme gastronomique joue un rôle essentiel dans la promotion des cultures locales. C’est un moteur clé du développement socio-économique caractérisé par la conservation du patrimoine culturel et l’autonomisation des communautés », a poursuivi S.E. Mme Mnangagwa a ajouté.
Le concours CANEX Junior Chef a permis de mettre en valeur la culture culinaire riche et dynamique de l’Algérie, tout en mettant en avant les produits locaux, en célébrant les jeunes talents émergents et en en courageant un échange culturel dynamique. La finale du concours de cuisine du CANEX Junior Chef a débuté avec quatre finalistes le premier jour. Lors du deuxième jour, les finalistes ont travaillé en équipes de deux, guidés par les mentors culinaires Andile Somdaka, Rabah Ourrad et Taymor Mason.
Temwa Gondwe, Directrice du Commerce Intra-africain et du Développement des Exportations (créatifs et diaspora) d’Afreximbank, a souligné que la compétition illustre de manière puissante la façon dont les nations peuvent tirer parti de leur culture alimentaire pour renforcer la fierté et promouvoir le tourisme.
« C’est plus qu’un simple spectacle culinaire. Il s’agit d’une stratégie délibérée visant à affirmer les éléments culinaires et la cuisine africaine comme un outil stratégique d’autonomisation économique et de diplomatie culturelle. Nous sommes à un tournant dans la perception que le monde a de l’Afrique. Si la musique et la mode africaines ont déjà conquis le public mondial, il est temps que la gastronomie africaine prenne la place qui lui revient dans le monde en investissant dans des entreprises africaines et en créant des chaînes de restaurants africaines dynamiques et modernes », a ajouté M. Gondwe.
Le concours CANEX Junior Chef est l’une des activités gastronomiques retenues dans le cadre de l’IATF2025 à Alger. D’autres activités sont également prévues, y compris des démonstrations culinaires de classe mondiale par certains des plus grands chefs d’Afrique et des Caraïbes dans le cadre des Jollof Wars.
Le CANEX est présenté comme le plus grand rassemblement de créatifs d’Afrique et de la diaspora issus de diverses chaînes de valeur des industries créatives et culturelles, allant du cinéma, de la musique et de la mode aux arts culinaires, aux sports et aux arts visuels, entre autres. L’évènement, qui s’est tenu sur une semaine, a réuni les acteurs continentaux et internationaux afin qu’ils présentent et exposent leurs biens et services, tout en explorant les opportunités d’affaires et d’investissement au sein d’une économie créative en pleine expansion. Il a eu lieu dans le cadre de l’IATF 2025 accueillie par la République algérienne démocratique et populaire et co-organisée par Afreximbank, la Commission de l’Union africaine et le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf. La Foire devrait faciliter les accords commerciaux et d’investissement d’une valeur de plus de 44 milliards de dollars US.
L’IATF est une plateforme permettant aux entreprises de présenter leurs biens et services aux visiteurs et aux acheteurs tout en explorant les opportunités et en échangeant des informations. L’IATF vise à tirer parti des opportunités du marché unique de la Zone de libre-échange de plus de 1,4 milliards de personnes et d’un PIB de plus de 3500 milliards dollars US. La quatrième Foire commerciale intra-africaine (IATF2025) dont les rideaux viennent de tomber a été un énorme succès, dépassant toutes les attentes. L’événement a attiré plus de 112 000 participants, en présentiel et en ligne, et a généré plus de 48 milliards de dollars US en accords commerciaux. La Foire a réuni plus de 2 100 exposants et a accueilli 20 chefs d’État et représentants de gouvernements, ainsi que plusieurs ministres et autres hauts fonctionnaires, des capitaines d’industrie et d’autres participants de 132 pays à travers le monde.
Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez consulter le site : www.Afreximbank.com
Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.
Contact presse :
media@intrafricatradefair.com
press@afreximbank.com
À propos de la Foire commerciale intra-africaine :
Organisée par la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank), la Commission de l’Union africaine (CUA) et le Secrétariat de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf), la Foire commerciale intra-africaine vise à fournir une plate-forme unique pour faciliter l’échange d’informations sur le commerce et l’investissement afin de soutenir le développement du commerce et de l’investissement intra-africains, en particulier dans le contexte de la mise en œuvre de l’Accord sur la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf). La Foire commerciale intra-africaine réunit les acteurs continentaux et internationaux afin qu’ils présentent et exposent leurs biens et services, tout en explorant les opportunités d’affaires et d’investissement sur le continent. L’IATF offre en outre une plateforme pour partager des informations sur le commerce, les investissements et le marché avec les parties prenantes et permet aux participants d’examiner et d’identifier des solutions aux difficultés auxquelles sont confrontés le commerce et l’investissement intra-africain. Outre les participants africains, la foire commerciale est ouverte aux entreprises et aux investisseurs de pays non africains qui souhaitent faire des affaires en Afrique et soutenir sa transformation grâce à l’industrialisation et au développement des exportations.
Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez consulter le site : www.IntrAfricanTradeFair.com
Source: APO – Report:
.
Global management consulting firm McKinsey & Company will feature as a Bronze Partner at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy 2025, taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. The partnership highlights McKinsey & Company’s leadership in advancing sustainable growth, decarbonization strategies and investment opportunities across Africa’s energy value chain.
Most recently, McKinsey & Company experts projected strong long-term growth for Africa’s fuel sector, while advising governments on balancing fossil fuel development with energy transition imperatives. The firm has identified a $400 billion midstream electricity infrastructure opportunities across Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria and Senegal by 2050, as well as $2.9 trillion in green energy investment needs between 2022 and 2050.
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
McKinsey & Company’s research emphasizes Africa’s green hydrogen potential, with countries in North and Southwest Africa well-positioned to become key exporters to Europe and Asia. By leveraging abundant solar and wind resources, Africa could establish itself as a global hub for low-carbon fuels, supporting industrialization at home while enabling international decarbonization efforts.
Beyond clean energy, McKinsey & Company continues to advise African governments and companies on ensuring competitiveness in oil and gas markets. As global majors divest from higher-carbon assets, the firm provides strategies to mitigate stranded asset risk, enhance production efficiency and reduce emissions. These insights are vital for resource-rich nations balancing immediate energy security with long-term transition goals.
“McKinsey & Company has consistently demonstrated its ability to bridge global trends with Africa’s unique energy landscape. Their insights into financing, technology adoption and sustainable development are helping countries unlock opportunities across oil, gas and renewables. By combining deep research with practical advisory, McKinsey & Company is shaping strategies that drive both economic growth and a just energy transition,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.
– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – French
Le cabinet international de conseil en gestion McKinsey & Company sera partenaire Bronze de l’African Energy Week (AEW) : Invest in African Energy 2025, qui se tiendra cette année du 29 septembre au 3 octobre au Cap. Ce partenariat souligne le rôle de premier plan joué par McKinsey & Company dans la promotion de la croissance durable, des stratégies de décarbonisation et des opportunités d’investissement tout au long de la chaîne de valeur énergétique africaine.
Tout récemment, les experts de McKinsey & Company ont prévu une forte croissance à long terme pour le secteur des carburants en Afrique, tout en conseillant les gouvernements sur la manière d’équilibrer le développement des combustibles fossiles et les impératifs de la transition énergétique. Le cabinet a identifié des opportunités d’infrastructures électriques intermédiaires d’une valeur de 400 milliards de dollars en Égypte, au Maroc, au Nigeria et au Sénégal d’ici 2050, ainsi que des besoins d’investissement dans les énergies vertes de 2 900 milliards de dollars entre 2022 et 2050.
AEW : Invest in African Energies est la plateforme de choix pour les opérateurs de projets, les financiers, les fournisseurs de technologies et les gouvernements, et s’est imposée comme le lieu officiel pour la signature d’accords dans le domaine de l’énergie en Afrique. Visitez le site www.AECWeek.com pour plus d’informations sur cet événement passionnant.
Les recherches de McKinsey & Company soulignent le potentiel de l’Afrique en matière d’hydrogène vert, les pays d’Afrique du Nord et du Sud-Ouest étant bien placés pour devenir des exportateurs clés vers l’Europe et l’Asie. En tirant parti de ses ressources solaires et éoliennes abondantes, l’Afrique pourrait s’imposer comme une plaque tournante mondiale pour les carburants à faible teneur en carbone, soutenant ainsi l’industrialisation de ses pays tout en contribuant aux efforts internationaux de décarbonisation.
Au-delà des énergies propres, McKinsey & Company continue de conseiller les gouvernements et les entreprises africains sur la manière de garantir leur compétitivité sur les marchés du pétrole et du gaz. Alors que les grandes entreprises mondiales se désengagent des actifs à forte intensité carbone, le cabinet propose des stratégies visant à atténuer le risque d’actifs bloqués, à améliorer l’efficacité de la production et à réduire les émissions. Ces informations sont essentielles pour les pays riches en ressources qui doivent trouver un équilibre entre la sécurité énergétique immédiate et les objectifs de transition à long terme.
« McKinsey & Company a toujours démontré sa capacité à faire le lien entre les tendances mondiales et le paysage énergétique unique de l’Afrique. Ses connaissances en matière de financement, d’adoption des technologies et de développement durable aident les pays à exploiter les opportunités dans les domaines du pétrole, du gaz et des énergies renouvelables. En combinant des recherches approfondies et des conseils pratiques, McKinsey & Company élabore des stratégies qui favorisent à la fois la croissance économique et une transition énergétique équitable », déclare Tomás Gerbasio, vice-président chargé des relations commerciales et stratégiques à la Chambre africaine de l’énergie.
Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.
Source: Government of South Africa
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for a thorough investigation into two scholar transport accidents in Pietermaritzburg’s Imbali Township last week.
On Thursday, a minibus taxi lost control and crashed into Senzokuhle Crèche and Pre-School in Imbali Unit 18, claiming the lives of five children aged between nine and eleven, and leaving several others injured.
On Friday, another scholar transport vehicle was involved in a crash along the same road. All children survived the second incident.
Ntuli has called for an urgent investigation into both accidents to establish their root causes and ensure accountability.
“We need to understand fully what went wrong. Only then can we implement decisive measures to prevent similar tragedies. No family should endure the pain of burying a child because of preventable mistakes on our roads,” Ntuli said.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, classmates, educators, and the entire community of Imbali.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy that has robbed our province of young lives who had bright futures ahead of them. We mourn with you and stand in solidarity during this time of deep sorrow,” Ntuli said.
Ntuli said the incidents underscored the urgent need for vigilance and safety on the roads.
“Government cannot remain passive in the face of repeated tragedies — we must respond with decisive action,” he said.
Ntuli has directed law enforcement and traffic officers to intensify visibility and conduct multidisciplinary roadblocks across KwaZulu-Natal.
“Traffic authorities must be more present and proactive, especially in areas where public transport is heavily used by learners and workers. Roadworthiness checks, driver compliance, and strict enforcement must become part of our daily operations,” he instructed.
Ntuli further urged commuters and communities to take shared responsibility for road safety by reporting reckless driving, speeding, and overloading.
“Do not remain silent until it is too late. Together, we can build a culture of responsibility and safety on our roads. Saving lives requires a united effort — government will do its part through enforcement and awareness, but communities must remain vigilant. If we act together, we will reduce these tragedies,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: Government of South Africa
As part of ongoing efforts to achieve fiscal sustainability, government is implementing reforms that will unlock economic growth and is roping in the private sector to invest in infrastructure development, says the Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo.
“South Africa’s fiscal path is not without challenges. But we are taking deliberate steps, restoring expenditure discipline, stabilising debt, advancing structural reforms, and strengthening institutions,” the Deputy Minister said on Monday.
Addressing investors, policymakers, and thought leaders at the RMB Morgan Stanley 2025 Investor Conference, Masondo emphasised that government is serious about fiscal sustainability.
Fiscal sustainability is about how government manages expenditure, taxation, and debt in a way that allows it to meet current and future obligations without creating long-term instability.
“The task is to balance caution with opportunity, ensuring that we honour our obligations while creating the space for growth and investment. Together, government and financial markets can help place South Africa’s economy on a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable footing,” he said.
Metro Trading Services Reform
Through Operation Vulindlela Phase II, a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury, government is implementing structural reforms at local government to improve service delivery.
“Our metros are the engines of the economy, hosting the bulk of our population, businesses, and jobs. Yet years of underinvestment, weak management, and service unreliability in electricity, water, sanitation, and waste services have constrained growth.
“The Metro Trading Services Reform is our response. It aims to create financially ring-fenced, professionally managed utilities within metros, restoring credibility and sustainability to essential services,” the Deputy Minister said.
The initiative offers access to a new R54 billion performance-linked incentive grant that will be strictly conditional on council-approved turnaround plans and adherence to clear accountability standards.
“This is not money for promises, it is money for performance. Only metros that demonstrate measurable improvements in service delivery, financial performance, and governance will qualify.
“The intention is to crowd in investment. For every rand of incentive funding, metros are expected to leverage at least another rand, mobilising an additional R108 billion into infrastructure,” the Deputy Minister said.
Masondo said the impact of the Metro Trading Services Reform will be significant as reliable trading services will strengthen municipal finances, attract investment, and boost urban growth.
“For financial institutions and investors, this reform creates a new opportunity. Lower risk, greater transparency, and stronger governance will open the door for financing water, sanitation, energy, and waste infrastructure, projects that improve lives and generate sustainable returns.
“My message is simple: we invite you to partner with us in this reform. Support our metros, finance the infrastructure that will keep our cities running, and share in the long-term benefits of a stronger urban economy,” he said.
Debt burden
For the past three years, South Africa has maintained a primary budget surplus, which is revenue exceeding non-interest spending.
“This outcome is critical because it reduces the debt burden and lowers debt-service costs, which in turn lowers the sovereign risk premium. As debt-service costs decline, savings can be directed towards fiscal buffers and productive infrastructure, reducing the cost of doing business and supporting growth,” the Deputy Minister said.
South Africa’s gross borrowing requirement is projected to decline to R434 billion in 2026/27 before increasing to R588 billion in 2027/28.
“Over the medium term, we expect to raise US$14.6 billion to meet foreign exchange commitments. We will continue to use a balanced mix of domestic and foreign borrowing, with predictability and confidence as guiding principles. While fixed-rate bonds remain our mainstay, we are expanding our toolkit to include floating-rate notes, Treasury bills, and innovative instruments such as green bonds, sustainable financing, and sukuk,” he said.
These instruments not only diversify government’s funding but also align with investor appetite and long-term sustainability. –SAnews.gov.za
