Category: MIL-OSI

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African Union Commission (AUC) and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) welcome the QUAD outcome on Sudan

Source: APO – Report:

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The AUC and IGAD have received with keen interest the Joint Statement issued by the Quad comprising the Foreign Ministers of Egypt, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States of America on the conflict in Sudan.

In particular, the African Union and IGAD welcome:

• The call for rapid humanitarian access and protection of civilians, as well as the three- month humanitarian truce, to be pursued through the Jeddah process, as a first step towards a permanent cessation of hostilities.

• The launch of a civilian-led transition process within nine months, ensuring inclusivity, legitimacy, and accountability.

• The firm rejection of external military support and extremist influence.

• Support for the Jeddah process as the channel for cessation of hostilities, in close coordination with regional and international partners.

This Quad position fully aligns with the African Union and IGAD Roadmaps for peace in Sudan.

Therefore, the African Union and IGAD reaffirm their readiness to work in partnership with the Quad, with the Sudanese people, and with all partners to end the war, protect the sovereignty and unity of Sudan, and advance an inclusive, civilian-led political transition.

In this regard, the African Union and IGAD, together with the League of Arab States, the United Nations, and the European Union will be convening this October, a new reinvigorated round of consultations with Sudanese civilian groups to promote unity among Sudanese and prepare the ground for an inclusive Sudanese- Sudanese dialogue and political transition to civilian-led constitutional order.

Like the Quad, the African Union and IGAD believe that there can be no military solution to the Sudanese crisis. The two African organizations look forward to collaborating with the Quad in the quest to end the war and return Sudan to civilian-led constitutional governance.

– on behalf of African Union (AU).

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Promising trade leads for local companies at Intra-Africa Trade Fair 

Source: Government of South Africa

South African companies that were part of the 30-member business delegation at the recently concluded Intra-Africa Trade Fair (IATF) in Algeria say they are eager to do business in Algeria and across the continent. 

This as the local companies generated several promising trade leads over the course of the trade fair.
The IATF 2025 was held in Algiers, Algeria, 4 – 10 September 2025, serving as a major platform for showcasing African products and fostering continental trade, investment, and partnerships within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Dr Khulile Mtsetfwa, Chief Executive Officer of Swatek Defence and Aerospace, announced that the company has signed three memoranda of understanding aimed at establishing distribution lines in Algeria.

“The plan is to make sure that we build relations and maintain the line of communication with country agents and distributors to penetrate the Algerian market and the rest of the continent. Our mission throughout the week was to make sure that we expose our products to the countries which were represented at the fair,” said Mtsetfwa.

The company signed a contract worth R20 million that will see them supplying protective gear to a local company. 
Rashmee Ramdeen, Director of Zilon Bulk Bags, said the company’s polypropylene bulk bags were well received by visitors and distributors, generating numerous new business leads.

“There is a potential order that is worth R6 million that is being negotiated with a local company. There was a huge demand for our products because there are few manufacturers who are producing them in Algeria.

“The country is currently importing from Europe, and the price is not competitive. So, this is our opportunity to make inroads in the North African market,” added Ramdeen.

Zanele Sanni, Chief Director of Export and Marketing at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, reaffirmed that the IATF is a powerful tool for trade and investment promotion, helping to drive the implementation of the AfCFTA.

“Participating in this landmark event, assisted in strengthening intra-African trade under the AfCFTA, and accelerating collaboration in critical sectors such as energy, automotives, mining and technology,” said Sanni.

READ | dtic to lead SA business delegation to Intra-African Trade Fair

The South African Pavilion attracted more than 3 000 visitors and 267 buyers, generated approximately 300 leads with an estimated post–six-month sales value of R483 million, and hosted over 120 business-to-business meetings. – SAnews.gov.za

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Department gazettes Transport Amendment Act, recognising e-hailing

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Transport has officially gazetted the long-awaited National Land Transport Amendment Act, along with its amended regulations. 

The Act introduces a new transport category, e-hailing services, as a recognised mode of public transport. This move affirms and formalises a sector that was previously treated as operating outside the law by some existing operators. 

It also requires all public transport operators, including e-hailing providers, to hold valid operating licences to ensure services remain authorised and safe. 
In addition, the Act sets out standards for quality and security that e-hailing platforms must meet to protect passengers and drivers alike.

“Each vehicle should be branded or carry a sign indicating that it is an e-hailing vehicle. 
“Commuters must verify that vehicle and driver details appear in the app, and if not, should exercise precaution,” the statement read. 

According to the department, under the new rules, app developers who permit users to use their apps without an Operating License risk a fine of up to R100 000 or up to two years in jail. 
“All apps must also be registered with the regulators.”

In addition, the Act also requires panic buttons to be installed in e-hailing vehicles to help keep commuters safe and provide quick emergency response and that vehicle owners are responsible for making sure these are installed. 

“The panic button for commuters will assist with crime detection and enable a rapid response by law enforcement or tracking companies. 

“Commuters are also required to ensure that the vehicle and driver are compliant. Drivers are required to have the requisite documents to be eligible for compliance.”

Meanwhile, the Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) offices will ensure compliance upon processing all applications before drivers can be issued an operating license.

In addition, e-hailing operators, when applying for an operating license, are subjected to a standard operating license application fee.

“Other operational costs are outside of the Department of Transport’s purview.”
 
This move will also see the companies being required to register and comply with company laws in South Africa under the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and South African Revenue Services (SARS), and there may be other requirements with costs. 

“The department will hold workshops to share this information with all operators and officials across the country starting from this week.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The United Arab Emirates Expresses Solidarity with Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) and Conveys Condolences over Victims of Boat Accidents

Source: APO – Report:

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The United Arab Emirates has expressed its solidarity with the Democratic Republic of the Congo over two tragic boat accidents on the Congo River that caused numerous deaths, injuries, and missing persons.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy with the families of the victims, and to the government and people of the DR Congo over the two tragic incidents, as well as its wishes for a speedy recovery for all the injured.

– on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Minister to host reunion for former political prisoners 

Source: Government of South Africa

With the country continuing to mark Heritage Month, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie will lead a reunion of former political prisoners from South Africa and Namibia.

“Held under the theme ‘Reuniting with Robben Island as the Stronghold that Fortified Our Resistance to Achieve Our Freedom,’ this symbolic gathering represents a profound moment of remembrance, healing, and national reflection. 

“It brings together former political prisoners from South Africa and Namibia and will pay tribute to the extraordinary bravery, unyielding resilience, and unwavering commitment of those who were imprisoned for their role in the fight against apartheid,” the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture said on Friday.

The reunion is set to be held at the Robben Island Museum in the Western Cape on Saturday, 27 September 2025.

The ceremony which will be held in partnership with the Association for Ex-Political Prisoners (AEPP) and the Robben Island Museum (RIM), will serve as a symbolic homecoming for many who endured incarceration on the island.

As part of the day’s programme:
•    All ex-political prisoners who were incarcerated at Robben Island, including those from Namibia, will be awarded commemorative medals in recognition of their sacrifice.
•    A Wall of Names honouring all former prisoners will be officially unveiled.
•    Statues of some iconic figures will be inaugurated, serving as enduring symbols of their bravery and ensuring their legacy is permanently etched into the nation’s collective memory.

“Taking place during Heritage Month, the reunion underscores Robben Island’s continued importance as a UNESCO [United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation] World Heritage Site and a living monument of resilience, unity, and hope for present and future generations,” said the ministry.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture officially launched Heritage Month 2025 under the theme: ‘Reimagine our Heritage Institutions for a New Era’.

READ | SA steps into Heritage Month

The theme reflects a shift from heritage institutions being custodians of memory to serving as platforms for innovation, inclusion and community development. –SAnews.gov.za

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Ebola vaccination begins in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Source: APO – Report:

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Vaccination of frontline health workers and contacts of people infected with Ebola virus disease has begun in Bulape health zone in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Kasai Province where an outbreak of the disease has been declared.

An initial 400 doses of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine—from the country’s stockpile of 2000 doses prepositioned in the capital Kinshasa—have been delivered to Bulape, one of the current hotspots of the outbreak. Additional doses will be delivered to the affected localities in the coming days.

The vaccine is being administered through ring vaccination strategy, which entails vaccinating individuals at highest risk of infection after having come into contact with a patient confirmed with the virus. It is also recommended for health care and frontline workers responding to the outbreak who may be in contact with Ebola patients. The Ervebo vaccine is safe and protects against the Zaire ebolavirus species, which has been confirmed as the cause of the ongoing outbreak. 

The International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision has approved around 45 000 additional Ebola vaccine doses to be shipped to the Democratic Republic of the Congo as part of the ongoing outbreak response. WHO supported the health authorities to develop the request for additional doses, and with partners, including UNICEF, also supported the development of a vaccination plan for the rollout of the doses. Vaccination teams are also being trained in data collection and receiving field support.

In addition to the vaccines, treatment courses of the monoclonal antibody therapy (Mab114) drug have also been sent to treatment centres in Bulape for clinical care. 

On the ground, WHO has so far deployed 48 experts in disease surveillance, clinical care, infection prevention and control, logistics and community engagement who, along with partner organizations, are supporting the government to rapidly strengthen outbreak response measures to halt the spread of the virus.

In countries neighbouring the Democratic Republic of Congo, WHO is working with national authorities to bolster operational readiness to enable rapid detection of cases and prompt initiation of measures to curb further spread.

WHO assesses the overall public health risk posed by the ongoing outbreak as high at the national level, moderate at the regional level and low at the global level.

– on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Democratic Republic of Congo.

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National Policy Dialogue: Shaping the Future of Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health in Nigeria

Source: APO – Report:

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Nigeria is prioritizing adolescent health, well-being and development through multisectoral collaboration, in line with the National Health Sector Strategic blueprint and National policy on Health and development of Adolescent and young people. This was the central message of the National Policy Dialogue on the Future of the Adolescent and Youth Sexual Reproductive Health and Development (AYSRH&D), which convened key diverse stakeholders in Abuja to chart a unified path for adolescent health and well-being in the country. The event underscored the power of multisectoral collaboration and meaningful adolescents and youth engagement in shaping sustainable national programmes.

What Happened and Why It Matters

The two-day dialogue, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, was convened by the Society for Family Health in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and the State Ministries of Health from Kano, Kaduna, Kwara, and Nasarawa.

The event brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including representatives from Ward Development Committees across the four states, members of the Nigeria National Assembly, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nigeria Governors Forum, Nigeria Health Watch, youth-led organizations, traditional institutions, and private sector partners. 

The goal was to make adolescent and youth health a central part of Nigeria’s development plans. By working together, ministries and partners aim to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s young population and achieve long-term national growth.

WHO played a key role by sharing two important tools:

  • The Framework for Multisectoral Actions on Adolescent Health
  • The Meaningful Adolescent and Youth Engagement (MAYE) Framework

These tools helped guide discussions and emphasized the importance of involving young people in decision-making and programme implementation—at both national and local levels.

Purpose and Strategic Importance

The dialogue aimed to:

  • Build agreement and commitment to prioritize adolescent and youth health and development (AYHD)
  • Identify gaps and share evidence and key sights from the implementation of A360 and discuss opportunities for institutionalizing adolescent and youth-centred design approaches into the national and subnational AYHD Progrommnes 
  • Strengthen coordination between ministries and sectors
  • Encourage partnerships among government, civil society, youth groups, traditional leaders, and private sector organizations

This initiative is aligned to  WHO’s global guidance, AA-HA! 2.0, and contributes to achieving Universal Health Coverage, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and regional commitments to adolescent health.

WHO’s Contributions

During the event, WHO presented a technical paper outlining its Framework for Multisectoral Collaboration and Accountability, a tool designed to help countries develop and implement effective adolescent health programmes. This framework served as a foundation for discussions on strengthening national approaches to adolescent health.

In addition, drawing from Nigeria’s experience, WHO shared valuable insights gained from the application of the AA-HA! (Accelerated Action for the Health of Adolescents) guidance since 2020. These included the review of national policy and implementation plans, the development of monitoring and evaluation tools, and support for programme rollout in Edo and Katsina States.

Dr Joy Ufere-Isikima, WHO Technical Officer for Newborn, Child, Adolescent and Primary Health Care, highlighted the importance of integrated programmes and community-level action. WHO’s support helped revitalized State Adolescent Health and Development Technical Working Groups and developed LGA-level workplans in two states.

UNICEF supported to expand the approach to 9 more states, demonstrating the growing momentum and commitment to adolescent health across Nigeria.

Key Outcomes

  • Strong commitment from stakeholders to improve adolescent and youth health and development
  • Agreement to leverage on multisectoral collaboration and accountability frameworks
  • Recognition of the vital role of young people in planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating AYHD programmes
  • Development of commitment statements to guide future policies and actions

Voices from the Dialogue

“When young people are meaningfully involved in planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating programmes designed for us, it helps improve our health and well-being.” — Margaret Bolaji, Executive Director, Stand With A Girl (SWAG) Initiative

“This event comes at a very critical time in our nation’s history… under the strong leadership of the Coordinating Hon. Minister of Health and Social Welfare.” — Dr Binyerem Ukaire, Director, Family Health Department

“Healthy young people are better positioned to contribute meaningfully to national development.” — Mr Emmanuel Essien, Representative of the Hon. Minister of Youth Development

Next Steps

The dialogue led to an endorsed commitment statements with a shared vision from all stakeholders to accelerate efforts in the implementation Adolescent and youth Health and development programming focused at the subnational levels.  WHO will continue to provide technical support and help Nigeria strengthen its adolescent health systems. Ensuring that young people’s voices remain central to policy and programme development is a top priority.

– on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Nigeria.

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Minister withdraws draft National Credit Act amendment regulations  

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, September 14, 2025

The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, has withdrawn draft regulations published in the Government Gazette on 13 August 2025 – that would have designated educational institutions as originators of credit information under the National Credit Act amendment regulations.

If implemented, this would have resulted in student debt being reported to credit bureaus across the country.

According to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Tau’s decision to withdraw the regulations was informed by the overwhelming response, comprising more than 20 000 submissions received even before the closing date for public comments on 12 September 2025. 

“The vast majority of the responses were opposed to the proposed regulations. This process has once more demonstrated the robust nature of South Africa’s democracy, where the public can engage with government openly and transparently.”

READ | DTIC responds to Draft National Credit Regulations concerns

The Minister has committed to a process that will review and implement necessary changes to protect students. 

At the same time, efforts to improve access to finance for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will continue, aiming to address the current credit funding gap.

“Minister Tau has also committed to engaging relevant stakeholders to further clarify this process and allay any fears with respect to the outcomes of this process,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Western Cape police probe deaths of three men

Source: Government of South Africa

Western Cape police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a deadly shooting incident that occurred in Ekopoleni, Cape Town, on Saturday night.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), three men aged between 24 and 27 were fatally wounded.

A fourth victim, aged 18, was injured and taken to the hospital for treatment.
“At approximately 22:41, a lone gunman opened fire on the victims before being picked up by the driver of an Isuzu bakkie. They are yet to be arrested.” 

While detectives are pursuing all leads, the police said operational members have been deployed in the area to maintain stability. 

“At this stage, the motive for the shooting is believed to be gang related.”
The public is encouraged to share any information that may assist the investigation by contacting Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or through the My SAPS mobile app.

Police have assured that all information provided will be treated confidentially and anonymously.

Meanwhile, as part of ongoing efforts to combat gang violence, serious and violent crime, and organised crime in the Western Cape, police apprehended several suspects for illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, and drugs on Friday, 12 September 2025.

A joint operation by the Maitland Flying Squad and the Cape Town K9 Unit led to the arrest of a 31-year-old man in Brown’s Farm for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
The statement said members followed up on information about a wanted suspect and firearms and searched the premises. 

The members found two AK-47 assault rifles with ammunition, a signal jammer and a .38 Special revolver in the house. 

The matter will be investigated by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as Hawks.
In an unrelated intervention, members of Maitland Flying Squad responded to a complaint about drugs at a premises in Summer Greens on Saturday, 13 September 2025. 

“Upon searching the premises, the members found a consignment of mandrax tablets, crystal meth, cocaine and an undisclosed amount of cash hidden in different compartments in the house.”
A 49-year-old female was arrested for dealing in drugs.

The suspects will make their respective court appearances in the Athlone and Cape Town Magistrate’s Courts on Monday, 15 September 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Central African Republic in Morocco Investors’ Roundtable Africa24 to Deliver Exclusive Coverage

Source: APO

From September 14 to 15, 2025, Casablanca (Morocco) will host the Investors’ Roundtable of the Central African Republic, under the high patronage of His Excellency President Faustin-Archange Touadéra and with the support of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This major pan-African event marks a strategic milestone in mobilizing technical and financial partners around the Central African Republic’s National Development Plan (PND).

As a true platform for dialogue and cooperation, the Roundtable aims to strengthen public-private partnerships, attract structuring investments, and fast-track the implementation of key economic recovery projects. It is part of a broader effort to build investor confidence and stimulate inclusive growth in the Central African Republic.

Casablanca Roundtable: A Catalyst for Recovery and Cooperation

The stakes of this gathering are significant. The event will showcase the priority projects of the PND across strategic sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture, education, health, governance, and innovation.

It also provides an opportunity to foster regional and international cooperation while positioning the Central African Republic as an active player in Africa’s economic transformation.

Africa24 Exclusive Editorial Coverage

Africa24 Group, the leading pan-African media network, will deploy an unprecedented audiovisual and digital set-up to capture the event:

  • Live broadcasts of plenary sessions and official addresses.
     
  • Exclusive interviews with financial partners, Heads of State, and private sector leaders.
     
  • In-depth reports from Casablanca at the heart of strategic discussions and key announcements.
     
  • Analytical insights into the economic outlook of the PND, investor mobilization, and the future of development in the Central African Republic.

Follow the Investors’ Roundtable with Africa24

Full coverage will be available live, in replay, and on demand via:

  • AFRICA24 (French, Channel 249) and AFRICA24 English (Channel 254) on Canal+ Afrique
     
  • MyAfrica24 App (Google Play)
     
  • Website: www.Africa24TV.com with exclusive reports, interviews, and special features

With Africa24 Group, Together, let’s transform Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AFRICA24 Group.