Category: MIL-OSI

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Remarks by Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, during the Community Outreach Programme at Rakatane Place of Safety in Tlhabane, North West Province

Source: President of South Africa –

Theme: Strengthening Community Institutions for Social Cohesion and Inclusive Social Protection

Programme Director,
NYDA leadership, including the Executive Deputy Chairperson and CEO,
Caregivers and staff of Rakatane Place of Safety,
Community leaders, volunteers, partners,
Most importantly, the children and young people we are here to serve,

It is an honour to be with you today at Rakatane Place of Safety, a space that represents care, protection and dignity for some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Social cohesion and nation building are not built only through laws and policies, but through everyday institutions at community level that protect and nurture people.

Across South Africa, community-run and faith-based organisations quietly carry a heavy responsibility, often with limited resources, yet with deep commitment.

Places like Rakatane are not just facilities. They are homes, sanctuaries and bridges to a better future for children who have faced difficult circumstances.

Government recognises that when these institutions are weakened, the most vulnerable pay the price. When they are strengthened, society as a whole benefits.

Rakatane currently provides care to 18 children and youth, including children with disabilities, school-going children, toddlers and unemployed youth.

The facility has identified infrastructure and maintenance challenges, which affect the quality of daily life for residents.

Today’s intervention focuses on deep cleaning, organising, restoring dignity and safety, and creating a more functional living environment.

This work may seem practical and hands-on, but it is deeply political in the best sense. It affirms that every child deserves a safe, clean and dignified space to live and grow.

Government’s presence here is not an act of charity, but a responsibility rooted in dignity, inclusion and shared accountability.

Our role is to ensure that women, youth, children and persons with disabilities are not left behind, regardless of where they live.

Initiatives like this translate policy commitments into real improvements in people’s daily lives, beyond speeches and documents.

Social protection works best when Government, communities and institutions act together, each playing their part.

I would like to express sincere appreciation to the caregivers, staff and volunteers who serve here with compassion, often under challenging conditions.

I also commend the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and partners for recognising that youth development and social cohesion begin with safe and supportive environments.

Your work reminds us that service is not only about programmes, but about human connection and consistency.

Let us continue to strengthen and sustain institutions that operate at the frontline of child wellbeing and social protection.

I encourage communities to keep working together to build safe, nurturing and inclusive spaces where children can grow, learn and thrive.

Government remains committed to walking this journey with you, listening, supporting and responding where possible.

When we protect our children, we protect the future of our country.

Let today not be a once-off visit, but part of an ongoing commitment to dignity, care and shared responsibility.

Together, we can ensure that no child feels forgotten and no community stands alone.

Thank you.

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Dr. Rasha Kelej discusses with Maldives First Lady their joint programs to build healthcare and media capacity and Support Girl Education

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com) CEO, Dr. Rasha Kelej met H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”, during the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025. The Summit which was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.)  CEO of Merck Foundation & President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative and H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” along with First Ladies of Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe, Senegal, and Zimbabwe.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) expressed, “I was a pleasure meeting my dear sister, H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” for the 7th Edition of our Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit. I also visited Maldives recently to meet her. During our meeting we discussed our joint programs and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare capacity and transforming patient care landscape by providing scholarships for local doctors. We have already started to enroll doctors for Fertility and Embryology trainings”.

H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” emphasized, “I am very proud of our partnership with Merck Foundation. I am happy to share that we have already started providing scholarships for our local doctors in Fertility and Embryology training. These are two very critical specialties for our country. We also plan to enroll our doctors in other specialties, further underscoring our partnership with the Merck Foundation to enhance healthcare capacity in the country.”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Maldives & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4juKAB8

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEOreceiving H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”:  https://apo-opa.co/4ju2eoy

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/49KYFXQ

“We have so far provided 2500 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 underserved medical specialties. We will continue to build and enhance healthcare capacity in the Maldives, African countries, and beyond”, added Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Through their Community Awareness Programs, Merck Foundation is also closely working with The First Lady of Maldives to address a wide range of critical social issues like breaking infertility stigma, stopping gender-based violence and women empowerment, and important health issues including promoting the importance of healthy lifestyle, and diabetes and hypertension awareness.

Merck Foundation together with the First Lady Maldives will soon conduct their Health Media Training for Maldivian media representatives, 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 Maldives for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives, Merck Foundation is launching 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 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.)  CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4b9WAWT), X (https://apo-opa.co/49vpvlE), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4blePIM), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3N4UP3f).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/49czWvs), X (https://apo-opa.co/4aSf0LE), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3LiQV6f), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4sxFXdN).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4aWFz2h

Summarizing Merck Foundation’s initiatives and impact:

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2500+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for healthcare providers from 52 Countries in 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 Representatives from more than 35 countries trained by Merck Foundation to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best Media coverage, Song, Films, and Fashion.

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa in English, French, Portuguese, and local languages.

• 9 Children’s Storybooks in four languages – English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili

• 6 Awareness Animation Films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education and prevention and early detection of Diabetes, Hypertension & Cancer.

• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community

• 1200+ Scholarships provided annually to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls from 18 countries, to help them to complete their studies and empower them to reach their full potential

  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8.5 Million Followers

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/4b9WAWT
X: https://apo-opa.co/49vpvlE
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3N4UP3f
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4blePIM
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/3Lr6cSk
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4sPdvEz
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/49cPxLx

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/4b9WAWT), X (https://apo-opa.co/49vpvlE), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4blePIM), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3N4UP3f), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3Lr6cSk) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4sPdvEz).

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.

Media files

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State Minister for Foreign Affairs KUNIMITSU’s Visit to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Republic of Ghana

Source: APO


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From January 10 to 18, Dr. KUNIMITSU Ayano, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, will visit the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Republic of Ghana.

  1. In both Ethiopia and Ghana, State Minister KUNIMITSU is scheduled to participate in business forums and exchange views with key government officials, among others, as the head of the Public and Private Sector Joint Mission for Promoting Trade and Investment in Africa.
  2. This will be the fifteenth mission of its kind, with approximately 70 participants from Japan’s business community, relevant government agencies, and organizations. As part of the follow-up to TICAD 9, which was held in August last year, it is hoped that this mission’s visit will further expand trade and investment between Japan and both countries.

(Reference1) Schedule of State Minister KUNIMITSU

January 10 　Departure from Narita
11 　Arrival in Addis Ababa
　Mission-related events, meetings with dignitaries, etc.
14 　Departure from Addis Ababa
　Arrival in Accra
　Mission-related events, meetings with dignitaries, etc.
17 　Departure from Accra
18 　Arrival in Narita

(Reference2) The Public and Private Sector Joint Mission for Promoting Trade and Investment in Africa

Dispatching a Public and Private Sector Joint Mission for Promoting Trade and Investment in Africa started as one of the initiatives set forth at the Fourth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IV) with a view to promoting trade and investment in Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

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Lamola once again condemns US military strikes on Venezuela

Source: Government of South Africa

Lamola once again condemns US military strikes on Venezuela

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has once again condemned the unilateral military strikes carried out by the United States against Venezuela, reaffirming the country’s commitment to multilateralism.

He also denounced the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, who are facing trial in the United States. 

This follows an incident in which United States special forces took Maduro and his wife to the United States early on Saturday morning.

In his first court appearance in New York on Monday, Maduro pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking and other charges. 

Lamola believes that the recent actions by the United States reflect the warnings made by former President Nelson Mandela regarding the dangerous times affecting the world.

Writing as a President in waiting about South Africa’s future foreign policy, former Statesman Mandela argued: “Because the world is a more dangerous place, the international community dare not relinquish its commitment to human rights.”

Lamola emphasised that South Africa’s foreign policy should prioritise justice and international law, as President Mandela highlighted, cautioning that current challenges could undermine the UN Charter and multilateralism.

“As the machinations of powerful States threaten to return us to an era when international relations were defined by trusteeship, mandates and spheres of influence, the need to stay true to our values and principles couldn’t be more pressing.

“Chief among the principles we have sworn to uphold is the sovereign equality of all nations. When we placed our signatures upon the UN Charter, we made a solemn covenant. 

“We agreed to replace the sword with the statute, the battlefield with the negotiating table. We pledged to refrain from force, understanding that to violate the territorial integrity of one is to violate the peace and stability of all,” he said on Friday.  

The Minister was speaking in the North West, where the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, in collaboration with the Rustenburg Local Municipality, hosted a public participation event at the Civic Centre in Rustenburg.

“In this challenging environment, South Africa must continue to advocate for a rules-based international order grounded in international law… The rule of law remains fundamental to global stability, legitimacy and governance.

“It is for this reason that we reaffirm our commitment to multilateralism, with the UN at its centre.” 

Lamola believes that this period of significant geopolitical tension will determine whether the UN fulfils its commitments or if the world reverts to the era of the League of Nations.

“An age of wars, fragmentation and racial hierarchy. We hope that stability and peace prevail. If multilateralism is to survive the current geopolitical headwinds, reform is no longer an option.”

He once looked to Madiba’s words, who said: “The United Nations (UN) should not be dominated by a single power or a group of powers, or else its legitimacy will continuously be called into question.”

Lamola described the foreign policy as one of the tools used to create the conditions for inclusive growth, decent work and a dignified life.

“Far too often, our critics argue that South Africa is too concerned with the rest of the world while our country faces pressing challenges of its own. They argue that all politics is domestic and foreign policy is a distraction from bread-and-butter issues at home. This is a false choice.”

In the face of the raw exercise of power, Lamola said President Mandela’s teachings remain incisive. 

“Principle is not a costume you wear when convenient and tear apart when it feels too heavy.

“To ask us to abandon Ubuntu, justice, and the quest for human dignity for the sake of appeasing those who resort to raw power and falsehoods to enforce their will is to ask us to shed our identity.

“South Africa is the 20th century’s biggest beneficiary of international solidarity. What explanation will we offer to posterity if we discard our values and identity at the altar of expedience?” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile

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Results of alleged 2025 matric exam cheats to be delayed

Source: Government of South Africa

Results of alleged 2025 matric exam cheats to be delayed

Some 40 National Senior Certificate (NSC) 2025 candidates, who were implicated in a breach of exam papers, will have to wait to hear their exam results as the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the National Investigative Task Team (NITT) investigating the breach continue their processes.

This according to DBE Minister Siviwe Gwarube, who briefed the media on Friday afternoon.

Last month, the Minister announced that NSC exam markers in Gauteng detected an unusual similarity in answers provided by a candidate with the answers provided in the marking guidelines for the English Paper 2 examination.

“On the NITT’s recommendation, results for the implicated 40 candidates will be withheld temporarily while the official irregularity processes are completed. 

“As part of these processes, each of the 40 candidates will be subjected to an independent hearing. Where a candidate is found guilty by the independent presiding officer, this finding, together with recommendations, will go to the Provincial Examination Irregularity Committee and thereafter the National Examination Irregularity Committee. [Further education and training quality assurer] Umalusi will be the final arbiter,” Gwarube announced.

Candidates, who are found guilty may have their results in the relevant subjects “nullified and may be further sanctioned”, which can include a ban from writing the NSC examinations for up to three examination sessions.

The DBE has already instituted precautionary suspensions against officials suspected to be involved in the breach – including an official whose child was writing the exams.

“In addition, the Department is implementing the NITT’s recommendations to institute investigations and disciplinary proceedings against implicated officials; to continue the forensic investigation into unlawful access to and distribution of examination materials; and to support criminal proceedings where the evidence warrants it.

“Those who compromise the NSC do not only break rules, they also attempt to steal opportunities from honest learners. We will pursue accountability through every appropriate disciplinary and criminal process, in line with due process once the necessary investigations are concluded,” the Minister vowed.

Examining the breach

Gwarube explained that the breach started at department’s secure exam paper system environment – where question papers are set, handled and stored.

The seven papers leaked are:

  • English Home Language: Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3;
  • Mathematics: Paper 1 and Paper 2; and
  • Physical Sciences: Paper 1 and Paper 2.

“The NITT further indicated that, on the evidence available to date, a DBE official whose child was an NSC 2025 candidate is alleged to have been involved in this breach, with the learner subsequently forming part of the distribution chain. The NITT also noted that a possible second suspected official remains subject to corroboration through the ongoing forensic and investigative work.

“Based on evidence available to date, the NITT reported that the breach was contained to 40 candidates in the Tshwane area and therefore localised. This reflects a very small portion in comparison to the over 900 000 candidates who wrote the NSC exams in 2025,” she added.

The minister moved to assure that the integrity of the NSC 2025 examinations remains intact, particularly in light of Umalusi’s approval of the exams earlier on Friday.

“Umalusi’s certification today is a clear assurance  to every candidate, every guardian and every parent that the NSC 2025 remains credible.

“This breach was detected through the strength of our marking and quality assurance systems. Markers are our first line of defence. The fact that anomalies were identified, escalated through established protocols demonstrate that the NSC system is designed to detect irregularities and act decisively to protect honest learners.

“We will not compromise the future of honest learners because of the actions of a few. We will not leave any stone unturned in ensuring accountability and safeguarding the credibility of the NSC,” Gwarube said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Minister Pemmy Majodina commissions major water infrastructure to secure supply for Rustenburg and Thabazimbi

Source: APO – Report:

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Minister Majodina commissions major water infrastructure to secure supply for Rustenburg and Thabazimbi, warns against water mafias

Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodina, together with Deputy Minister Mr David Mahlobo, commissioned critical upgraded water infrastructure that will significantly improve water security for the residents of Rustenburg Local Municipality under Bojanala District Municipality in the North West, as well as Thabazimbi Local Municipality in Limpopo.

The commissioning included the upgraded Vaalkop Water Treatment Works Raw Water Pumpstation and the associated Bulk Water Pipeline, both of which are designed to respond to growing water demand and ensure long-term water security in the two provinces.

Minister Majodina was joined by the Members of the Executive Council responsible for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) in the North West, Mr Gaoage Oageng Molapisi, and in Limpopo, Mr Basikopo Makamu. Also in attendance were the Executive Mayors of Bojanala District Municipality, Rustenburg Local Municipality and Thabazimbi Local Municipality. Magalies Water was represented by its Board Chairperson, Dr Lydia Sebego, and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ofentse Nthutang.

The Vaalkop Water Treatment Works Raw Water Pumpstation upgrade, implemented by Magalies Water from February 2023 and completed in November 2025, will ensure sustainable water supply for Moses Kotane and Rustenburg Local Municipalities in the 

North West, as well as Thabazimbi Local Municipality in Limpopo.

The Pumpstation directly abstracts water from Vaalkop Dam and has been upgraded from a capacity of 240 megalitres per day (ML/day) to 360 ML/day. It has been equipped with ten pump sets designed to efficiently supply raw water to the water treatment works, strengthening operational reliability, improving water management and reducing water losses.

Minister Majodina also commissioned the upgraded Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which was initiated in response to increasing water demand from the rural communities of Bethanie, Modikoe and Berseba within Rustenburg Local Municipality.

Implemented by Magalies Water in partnership with Glencore Rhovan PSV Mine, the project involved the construction and installation of a 23.4-kilometre bulk potable water pipeline, comprising 560mm and 400mm diameter pipes with associated valves. The pipeline runs from the Kortbegrip Reservoir to the Bethanie and Modikoe Reservoirs.

The new pipeline replaces the ageing asbestos fibre-cement pipeline that had reached the end of its operational life and was prone to frequent bursts. The upgraded infrastructure increases bulk water supply capacity to meet the current demand of 7.05 ML/day and future demand projected at 12.60 ML/day.

Importantly, the project will also enable additional water volumes to supply Makolokwe Village, where access to water remains critically low. Currently, the village relies on boreholes that are insufficient to meet the growing needs of the community.

The second phase of the project, the bulk pipeline between Bethanie and Makolokwe Village, is scheduled to commence in March 2026 and will include the construction of a booster pumpstation at the Bethanie Reservoir. Upon full completion, the project will provide a reliable water supply to a combined population of approximately 144,133 residents, including households, schools, clinics, businesses and community institutions.

Minister Majodina commended the public-private partnership between Rustenburg Local Municipality and Glencore Rhovan PSV Mine, noting its positive contribution to accelerating service delivery in Bethanie and Modikoe villages.

“Today’s handover represents progress, but more importantly, it represents partnership. When government, communities and stakeholders work together, we can overcome scarcity, defeat criminality and deliver sustainable services.

“The benefits of this investment are clear and far-reaching. For households, it means a more reliable water supply and greater resilience during peak demand periods. For local businesses, industries and emerging enterprises, it provides the certainty needed to operate efficiently, expand production and create jobs. For municipalities, it strengthens the backbone of service delivery and long-term development planning,” said Minister Majodina.

The Minister also called on communities to protect the newly commissioned infrastructure and keep it safe from vandalism and sabotage. She strongly condemned individuals and syndicates who deliberately damage water infrastructure to sustain illegal water trading activities.

“These projects must be protected, and I want to speak clearly and firmly today: water infrastructure is not a playground for criminals. The vandalism of pipelines, theft of equipment and manipulation of water systems by so-called water mafias is a direct attack on the dignity and well-being of our people. It deprives families of water, disrupts livelihoods and undermines development.

“This government will not tolerate water mafias. Those who vandalise, steal or illegally profit from water infrastructure are stealing from children, the elderly and the most vulnerable. Law enforcement agencies are working closely with the Department, municipalities and water boards, and we will pursue arrests, prosecutions and harsh consequences for anyone who undermines service delivery,” Minister Majodina concluded.

– on behalf of Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa.

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Water and Sanitation monitors Knysna water crisis and coordinating short-, medium- and long-term interventions

Source: APO – Report:

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The National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) notes with serious concern the escalating water supply challenges currently affecting Knysna and other coastal towns within the Garden Route District. The Department is working closely with the Western Cape Provincial Government, Knysna Municipality, and other municipalities which are Water Services Authorities to safeguard water security and mitigate the impact of the crisis on residents, businesses, and the tourism sector.

Current Status of Water Security in Knysna

Knysna’s water supply system has reached a critical stage. The Akkerkloof Dam, the municipality’s primary storage facility, is currently at approximately 19% full, translating to an estimated 13 days of usable water at present consumption levels. The situation constitutes a serious water security crisis and warrants immediate and collective action from all sectors of society.

Compounding this pressure are below-normal rainfall patterns, reduced river flows due to drought conditions, and recent incidents of infrastructure vandalism. These factors have significantly reduced inflows into the system and further constrained the Municipality’s ability to meet growing demand.

Intergovernmental Coordination and Emergency Structures

In response to the deteriorating situation, a Joint Operations Committee (JOC), a standing intergovernmental structure, has been activated to oversee coordinated interventions. The structure is co-chaired by DWS, the Western Cape Department of Local Government and Knysna Municipality and draws technical and regulatory support from the Breede-Olifants Catchment Management Agency (BOCMA) and the Garden Route District Municipality.

The JOC is tasked with planning and executing short-term emergency measures, medium-term resilience interventions, as well as longer-term water resource solutions to reduce vulnerability to future climatic and environmental shocks.

Regulatory and Compliance Measures

Given the severity of the crisis, DWS through its regulatory and water resource management functions has directed the Municipality to urgently explore and activate alternative water sources. These include groundwater abstraction, borehole development, reuse technologies, and temporary augmentation schemes.

DWS together with BOCMA, the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Knysna Municipality, will implement a Compliance and Enforcement Blitz to assess adherence to water use authorisations, imposed restrictions and environmental regulations. This intervention is intended to prevent illegal abstraction, wastage, and non-compliance that could further compromise available supply.

Short- to Medium-Term Interventions Underway

The following measures are currently being monitored by DWS in collaboration with the JOC:
1.    Demand reduction initiatives encouraging all water users to significantly curtail consumption.
2.    Sourcing and blending of additional water supply where technically feasible.
3.    Enforcement and monitoring of Level 4 water restrictions.
4.    Public communication and awareness campaigns to keep residents and visitors informed.
5.    Preventative maintenance of critical infrastructure to minimise unplanned outages or leak-related water losses.

These actions are aimed at extending available supply, delaying system failure, and preserving reserves for priority domestic and public health needs.

Climate Change and Long-Term Adaptation

The current crisis underscores the growing impact of climate change on water resources, particularly in coastal and tourism-driven municipalities. The Department reiterates that Water Services Authorities can no longer rely exclusively on surface water systems and must diversify portfolios through a mix of:

  • groundwater development
  • water reuse and recycling
  • stormwater capture
  • desalination (where feasible)
  • improved demand management and efficiency of water use.

To support institutional resilience, DWS is further assisting Knysna Municipality through its Policy Development Special Project to develop and implement new Water and Sanitation By-Laws, enabling more effective regulation, tariff alignment, and enforcement capacity going forward.

Appeal to Stakeholders and the Public

DWS remains concerned about the potential socio-economic implications of the crisis on households, public services, the local economy, and the tourism industry particularly during peak season. The Department therefore appeals to all residents, businesses, and visitors to use water sparingly and responsibly.

The Department condemns recent incidents of vandalism of municipal infrastructure and calls upon community members to report such actions to law enforcement authorities.

Assurance and Way Forward

DWS wishes to reassure the public that the national, provincial and district spheres of government, along with sector stakeholders, are aligned and working collectively to stabilise water supply and improve system resilience in Knysna and the broader Garden Route coastal route.

Progress updates will be communicated to the public as further interventions are implemented and as conditions evolve.

– on behalf of Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa.

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Levene Energy assegura uma Linha de Crédito de 64 milhões de Dólares do Afreximbank para Adquirir Participação Estratégica na Axxela Limited

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) concedeu uma Linha de Crédito no valor de 64 milhões de dólares ao Levene Energy Development Limited. A linha de crédito apoia o compromisso de capital do Levene Energy com a Bluecore Gas Infraco Limited (a “Adquirente”) para a aquisição de uma participação de 30% do capital da Axxela Limited, uma das principais empresas de infra-estruturas de gás e energia da África Ocidental.

Esta transacção histórica proporciona ao Levene Energy entrada directa nos sectores regulamentados a nível intermédio e a jusante do gás da Nigéria. Representa uma diversificação significativa da sua actividade principal de comercialização de petróleo e produtos petrolíferos refinados para receitas estáveis e de longo prazo apoiadas em infra-estruturas, reflectindo o objectivo do Levene Energy de fazer a transição para uma empresa de energia totalmente integrada com fluxos de receitas recorrentes ancorados em activos apoiados em infra-estruturas.

Para além do seu significado comercial, o investimento apoia os objectivos regionais de transição energética, expandindo o acesso ao gás natural. A Axxela está estrategicamente posicionada para liderar a transição energética da Nigéria através dos seus investimentos em infra-estruturas de gás, produção de energia e soluções de energias mais limpas. Com um conjunto de projectos robusto, fortes parcerias regionais e um modelo de negócio reestruturado, a Axxela está bem equipada para garantir um crescimento sustentável e aprofundar o seu impacto no panorama energético da África Ocidental.

Ao comentar sobre o financiamento, o Vice-Presidente Executivo do Afreximbank para a Banca Comercial Global, Sr. Haytham Elmaayergi, destacou a importância da transacção, que está alinhada com as prioridades estratégicas de financiamento do Afreximbank no âmbito dos seus pilares de Liderança na Banca Comercial Global, Comércio Intra-Africano e Industrialização. “A nossa principal força reside nas parcerias estratégicas que estabelecemos com os principais intervenientes africanos. Este acordo reflecte o compromisso do Banco em promover o investimento do sector privado em infra-estruturas críticas, promovendo a segurança energética em toda África e reforçando as cadeias de valor regionais no sector do petróleo e gás. Ao apoiar a iniciativa estratégica do Levene Energy no domínio das infra-estruturas de gás, estamos a apoiar a transição crítica para fontes de energia mais limpas, melhorando a segurança energética regional e reforçando as cadeias de valor intra-africanas.”

Comentando sobre a aquisição, o Responsável pelo Desenvolvimento Corporativo do Levene Energy, Sr. Sam Aofolaju, observou que a linha de crédito do Afreximbank é um catalisador para o foco estratégico de crescimento do Levene Energy, que vai além do comércio de commodities (produtos de base) para as energias renováveis (energia solar) e agora para a espinha dorsal da infra-estrutura de gás e energia da África Ocidental – um pilar essencial da transição para as energias limpas no continente. O financiamento do Afreximbank não só valida a nossa visão, como sublinha a nossa convicção comum de que infra-estruturas resilientes e de propriedade local constituem a base para um desenvolvimento económico duradouro em toda África.

A parceria entre o Afreximbank e o Levene Energy remonta ao ano de 2019, tendo iniciado com linhas de crédito para o financiamento do comércio. Desde então, evoluiu para uma colaboração estratégica que apoia a transformação do Levene de um operador a jusante para um importante comerciante pan-africano e, agora, um investidor em infra-estruturas de gás.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

Contacto para a Imprensa do Afreximbank:
Vincent Musumba
Gestor de Comunicações e Eventos (Relações com a Imprensa)
Correio Electrónico: press@afreximbank.com

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Sobre o Afreximbank:
O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) é uma instituição financeira multilateral pan-africana com mandato para financiar e promover o comércio intra e extra-africano. Há mais de 30 anos que o Banco utiliza estruturas inovadoras para oferecer soluções de financiamento que apoiam a transformação da estrutura do comércio africano, acelerando a industrialização e o comércio intra-regional, impulsionando assim a expansão económica em África. Apoiante firme do Acordo de Comércio Livre Continental Africano (ACLCA), o Afreximbank lançou um Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamento e Liquidação (PAPSS) que foi adoptado pela União Africana (UA) como plataforma de pagamento e liquidação para sustentar a implementação da ZCLCA. Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a UA, o Banco criou um Fundo de Ajustamento de 10 mil milhões de dólares para apoiar os países que participam de forma efectiva na ZCLCA. No final de Dezembro de 2024, o total de activos e contingências do Afreximbank ascendia a mais de 40,1 mil milhões de dólares e os seus fundos de accionistas a 7,2 mil milhões de dólares. O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela GCR (escala internacional) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e Fitch (BBB-). O Afreximbank evoluiu para uma entidade de grupo que inclui o Banco, a sua subsidiária de fundo de impacto de acções, denominada Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Exportações em África (FEDA), e a sua subsidiária de gestão de seguros, AfrexInsure (em conjunto, “o Grupo”). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto.

Para mais informações, visite: www.Afreximbank.com.

Sobre o Levene Energy Group:
O Levene Energy Group é uma empresa global de energia de origem africana, comprometida em fornecer soluções integradas em toda a cadeia de valor do petróleo, gás e energias renováveis. Fundada com a visão de impulsionar o crescimento industrial de África, o Levene evoluiu de uma empresa líder no comércio de commodities (produtos de base) para uma empresa diversificada no sector energético, com operações que abrangem o comércio, serviços a montante, engenharia e desenvolvimento de energias limpas.

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Moçambique implementa e expande programa para reforçar adaptação climática

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Moçambique, um dos países mais vulneráveis às alterações climáticas em África, enfrenta desafios estruturais agravados por choques económicos, conflitos e fenómenos meteorológicos extremos.  

Para responder a estes riscos e proteger os ganhos de desenvolvimento, o país tem apostado num modelo descentralizado de adaptação climática, integrando o financiamento climático nos sistemas nacionais e locais de planeamento e orçamento. 

Programa LoCAL apoia adaptação climática

O Governo de Moçambique, com apoio do Fundo de Desenvolvimento de Capital das Nações Unidas, Uncdf, implementou o programa “Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility”, LoCAL, com o objetivo melhorar a resiliência climática reforçando o acesso dos governos locais a financiamento baseado no desempenho.  

O LoCAL foi lançado em 2014 como um programa de financiamento climático concebido pelo Uncdf e implementado em Moçambique através dos Ministérios da Economia e Finanças e da Terra e Ambiente.

O programa opera atualmente em sete províncias, Gaza, Inhambane, Nampula, Niassa, Zambézia, Cabo Delgado e Sofala, e tem como objetivo melhorar a resiliência climática reforçando o acesso dos governos locais a financiamento baseado no desempenho. 

O LoCAL utiliza subvenções de resiliência climática baseadas no desempenho, integradas nos processos existentes de planeamento, orçamentação e investimento a nível local.  

Para aceder aos fundos, as autoridades subnacionais devem cumprir critérios mínimos, incluindo avaliações de risco climático e a integração da adaptação climática nos planos de desenvolvimento de forma participativa e sensível ao género. 

Resultados e impacto em comunidades vulneráveis 

Até 2024, o programa beneficiou diretamente mais de 3 milhões de pessoas através da implementação de mais de 100 projetos de infraestruturas adaptadas ao clima, incluindo centros de saúde, maternidades, escolas, sistemas de abastecimento de água e unidades de dessalinização.  

Cerca de 65% dos projetos foram selecionados por mulheres, e a participação comunitária contribuiu para a criação de emprego local e para o reforço dos meios de subsistência resilientes.

Em resposta aos resultados alcançados, o Governo solicitou em 2022 a expansão do LoCAL a nível nacional. Até 2024, o programa abrangia 54 dos 154 distritos e 7 dos 65 municípios do país, com atividades de planeamento da adaptação climática em nove das 11 províncias.  

Mais de US$ 30 milhões foram mobilizados em subvenções baseadas no desempenho e no reforço de capacidades, contribuindo para a institucionalização da adaptação climática e para o fortalecimento da governação descentralizada. 

Integração nos sistemas nacionais de planeamento e finanças públicas

O LoCAL apoia os ciclos anuais de planeamento e orçamento dos governos locais através dos sistemas fiscais existentes, com avaliações de desempenho que orientam a alocação futura de recursos e o apoio técnico. 

Um sistema de monitorização e avaliação permite que as lições aprendidas a nível local informem políticas nacionais, promovendo a integração das considerações climáticas em todas as fases da gestão das finanças públicas. 

A experiência de Moçambique com o LoCAL é um caso da transformação de vulnerabilidades climáticas em oportunidades de desenvolvimento. 

Apresenta um modelo escalável de financiamento climático descentralizado, assente na liderança comunitária, em critérios de desempenho e no alinhamento com os sistemas nacionais, reforçando a capacidade do país para enfrentar riscos climáticos e apoiar o desenvolvimento local.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UN News.

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Umalusi reassures public of integrity of 2025 matric exam results

Source: Government of South Africa

Umalusi reassures public of integrity of 2025 matric exam results

Umalusi has reassured the public that the integrity of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results is intact, despite a confirmed leak affecting 40 learners across three subjects.

Umalusi [Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training in South Africa] CEO, Dr Mafu Rakometsi, said following extensive quality assurance processes and an independent investigation, the quality council can assure South Africans that they can trust that the results reflect learners’ genuine performance.

“We want to assure the public that the breach was localised and therefore cannot dent the overall credibility of the 2025 NSC results,” Rakometsi said on Friday. 

Rakometsi addressed the media regarding the exams conducted by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the Independent Examinations Board (IEB), the South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI), and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

The CEO outlined the comprehensive quality assurance framework applied to all examinations it oversees. 

This involves moderating question papers and school assessments, auditing examination readiness, monitoring writing at selected centres, participating in marking discussions, verifying marking quality in certain subjects, and standardising marks across over 300 subjects.

Rakometsi said the Assessment Standards Committee (ASC) of Umalusi standardised the 2025 external examination results between 18 December 2025 and 5 January 2026.

“The 15-member committee spent considerable time carefully analysing numerical data and narrative reports to arrive at standardisation decisions by way of consensus for each one of the over 300 subjects presented,” the CEO explained.

In addition, observers from 11 national and international organisations also scrutinised the process. 

Their message, Umalusi reported, was that while systems differ, “the quality assurance processes converge around the need to ensure the highest credibility and integrity of the certificates issued.”

Exam leaks 

On 11 December 2025, the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, informed the nation of a breach involving mathematics Papers 1 and 2, physical sciences Papers 1 and 2, and English home language Papers 1 to 3. 

A National Investigation Task Team (NITT) of nine members, with Umalusi as observer, was appointed to investigate. 

The NITT’s report was presented to Umalusi’s Executive Committee on 6 January 2026.

“The overall conclusion of the investigation is that the leak was limited to the three subjects or seven papers… and that the leak was contained to around 40 candidates in seven examination centres in the Pretoria area,” Rakometsi said.

“While the number of implicated learners currently stands at around 40, there will be consequences for anyone who is not included in the number now, should they be discovered later.”

The CEO commended the Department of Basic Education (DBE) for its quick action but expressed concern over ongoing irregularities like group copying, highlighting that some provinces frequently appear in reports of these issues.

He called on provincial departments and private assessment bodies “to tighten their systems to protect the overall credibility of the examinations”.

Umalusi reminded learners that the law empowers it to cancel certificates if irregularities are discovered later. 

“If you cheated in this examination and you are found out later, you will have to return the certificate, failing which you will be imprisoned,” said Rakometsi.

The council condemned practices like gatekeeping, which prevent learners from writing certain subjects so that schools can improve pass rates. He praised interventions by the DBE to curtail this.

Social ills

Umalusi expressed regret that some candidates fell victim to social ills, such as rape and robbery, during the examination period. 

It urged community members and relevant authorities to support all victims in whatever way possible.

Umalusi chairperson, Professor Yunus Ballim, has approved the release of the 2025 end-of-year exam results, stating there were “no systemic irregularities” affecting exam integrity. 

Over one million candidates sat for exams in more than 300 subjects at approximately 9 400 centres, with the NSC accounting for 90.3% of those, or around 927 000 candidates.

Ballim noted a high acceptance of raw marks, indicating a stable system.

“When we accept a larger proportion of raw results, that points to a system that is settled, doing reasonably well.”

In a heartfelt message to the Class of 2025, the Professor acknowledged all participants in a “large and complex” system that meticulously processes over a million scripts, ensuring the integrity of the process is maintained.

He also took the time to encourage those who failed and pleaded with them not to give up. 

“Work harder, and you will do better in this year’s examinations.” – SAnews.gov.za

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