Category: MIL-OSI

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Libéria obtém aprovação do Fundo Global para o Meio Ambiente (GEF) para projeto histórico de redução do mercúrio na mineração de ouro, com apoio do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Fundo Global para o Meio Ambiente (GEF) aprovou um projeto transformador desenvolvido pela Agência de Proteção Ambiental (EPA) da Libéria e apoiado pelo Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) para reduzir drasticamente a poluição por mercúrio proveniente da mineração artesanal e em pequena escala de ouro (ASGM). O projeto, com financiamento de 7,67 milhões de dólares do GEF e um cofinanciamento indicativo adicional de 24,57 milhões de dólares do Grupo Banco, ajudará a construir um setor de mineração de ouro mais seguro, limpo e sustentável na Libéria.

A iniciativa marca a entrada da Libéria no programa planetGOLD, um esforço global apoiado pelo GEF que já ajudou mais de 20 países a reduzir o uso de mercúrio, melhorando a saúde ambiental e os meios de subsistência. O projeto promove a estratégia global do planetGOLD, que se concentra no fortalecimento de políticas e estruturas regulatórias, na expansão da inclusão financeira, na promoção de tecnologias sem mercúrio e no cultivo de parcerias entre o governo, as comunidades e o setor privado.

Também se baseia no Projeto de Apoio Institucional para a Mobilização de Receitas Internas e Implementação de Reformas do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, que está a ajudar a melhorar a transparência e a governança no setor de mineração da Libéria.

“Este é um exemplo poderoso de incrementalidade programática”, afirma Anthony Nyong, Diretor do Grupo Banco para as Alterações Climáticas e o Crescimento Verde. “As bases estabelecidas através do apoio institucional do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento estão agora a ser expandidas para uma transformação ambiental e socioeconómica em grande escala do setor mineiro da Libéria; isto prova que o desenvolvimento e a proteção ambiental podem andar de mãos dadas”, acrescentou.

“A aprovação deste projeto é um marco significativo nos nossos esforços para reduzir a poluição por mercúrio em todo o mundo”, afirmou Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, CEO e presidente do Fundo Global para o Meio Ambiente. “Ao apoiar uma abordagem abrangente que combina reforma política, tecnologia e envolvimento da comunidade, estamos a ajudar a Libéria a liderar o caminho para um setor de mineração de ouro mais limpo, seguro e sustentável”, apontou.

“Esta aprovação é uma grande vitória para o povo e o ambiente da Libéria”, afirmou o Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, Diretor Executivo da EPA da Libéria. “Ao combater a poluição por mercúrio na sua origem, estamos a proteger os nossos mineiros, a salvaguardar os nossos rios e florestas e a construir um setor de mineração de ouro mais limpo e próspero. Este projeto aproxima a Libéria de um futuro em que o crescimento económico e a proteção ambiental andam de mãos dadas, em cumprimento das nossas Contribuições Nacionalmente Determinadas (NDC) 3.0”, salientou ainda.

A contaminação por mercúrio proveniente da mineração de ouro representa graves riscos para a saúde humana, as fontes de água, o solo e os ecossistemas em toda a Libéria. A natureza amplamente informal da mineração artesanal também contribuiu para o desmatamento, a perda de biodiversidade e a instabilidade económica, deixando os mineiros com acesso limitado aos mercados formais e às práticas sustentáveis.

O projeto proporcionará benefícios tangíveis, incluindo:

  • Redução de 50 toneladas métricas de mercúrio ao longo de cinco anos
  • Restauro de 10 mil hectares de terras degradadas
  • Prevenção de 148 mil toneladas métricas de emissões de CO₂
  • Condições de trabalho mais seguras e melhores meios de subsistência para 20 mil pessoas, incluindo 12 mil mulheres.

Através da formalização, do acesso ao financiamento, de tecnologias limpas e do envolvimento da comunidade, este projeto posiciona a Libéria para cumprir os seus compromissos ao abrigo da Convenção de Minamata sobre o Mercúrio e contribuir para os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável em matéria de clima, saúde, biodiversidade e trabalho digno.

Como parte da iniciativa mais ampla planetGOLD+, a Libéria beneficiará da colaboração regional e global, incluindo oportunidades de aprendizagem entre pares e acesso a uma rede comprovada de práticas inovadoras de outros países apoiados pelo GEF. Essa abordagem coletiva não só fortalece a escalabilidade e a sustentabilidade dos esforços nacionais, como também acelera o progresso global rumo à eliminação do mercúrio das cadeias de abastecimento de ouro. Totalmente alinhado com os compromissos da Libéria no âmbito da Convenção de Minamata sobre o Mercúrio, o projeto marca um passo fundamental para a construção de um setor aurífero livre de mercúrio que equilibra a gestão ambiental com o desenvolvimento económico inclusivo e sustentável.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacto para os media:
Sonia Borrini
Departamento de Mudanças Climáticas e Crescimento Verde
media@afdb.org

Sobre o GEF:
O Fundo Global para o Meio Ambiente (GEF) inclui vários fundos multilaterais que trabalham em conjunto para enfrentar os desafios mais urgentes do planeta de forma integrada. O seu financiamento ajuda os países em desenvolvimento a enfrentar desafios complexos e a trabalhar para cumprir as metas ambientais internacionais. Nas últimas três décadas, o GEF forneceu mais de 26 mil milhões de dólares em financiamento, principalmente na forma de doações, e mobilizou outros 153 mil milhões de dólares para projetos prioritários impulsionados pelos países. Mais informações em https://www.TheGEF.org/

Sobre O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros. Mais informações em www.AfDB.org/pt

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Le Liberia obtient l’approbation du Fonds pour l’environnement mondial (FEM) pour un projet historique de réduction du mercure dans le secteur de l’exploitation aurifère, soutenu par le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Fonds pour l’environnement mondial (FEM) a approuvé un projet transformateur élaboré par l’Agence libérienne de protection de l’environnement (EPA) et soutenu par le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org). Le projet vise à réduire considérablement la pollution par le mercure provenant de l’exploitation artisanale et à petite échelle des mines d’or (ASGM).

Le projet, qui bénéficie d’un financement de 7,67 millions de dollars du FEM et d’un cofinancement supplémentaire indicatif de 24,57 millions de dollars du Groupe de la Banque, contribuera à bâtir un secteur minier aurifère plus sûr, plus propre et plus durable au Liberia.

Cette initiative marque l’entrée du Liberia dans le programme planetGOLD, une initiative mondiale soutenue par le FEM qui a déjà aidé plus de vingt pays à réduire l’utilisation du mercure tout en améliorant la santé environnementale et les moyens de subsistance. Ce projet fait progresser la stratégie mondiale de planetGOLD axée sur le renforcement des cadres politiques et réglementaires, l’élargissement de l’inclusion financière, la promotion des technologies sans mercure et le développement de partenariats entre les pouvoirs publics, les communautés et le secteur privé.

L’initiative s’appuie également sur le Projet d’appui institutionnel pour le renforcement de la mobilisation des recettes intérieures et la mise en œuvre de réformes de la Banque africaine de développement, qui améliore la transparence et la gouvernance dans le secteur minier du Liberia.

« Ceci constitue un puissant exemple d’incrémentation programmatique », a déclaré Anthony Nyong, directeur du changement climatique et de la croissance verte au sein du Groupe de la Banque. « Les bases établies grâce à l’appui institutionnel de la Banque africaine de développement sont désormais étendues à une transformation environnementale et socio-économique à grande échelle du secteur minier du Liberia. Cela prouve que le développement et la protection de l’environnement peuvent aller de pair ».

« L’approbation de ce projet marque une étape importante dans les efforts que nous déployons pour réduire la pollution par le mercure dans le monde entier », a souligné Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, directeur général et président du Fonds pour l’environnement mondial. « En soutenant une approche globale qui combine réforme politique, technologie et engagement communautaire, nous aidons le Liberia à ouvrir la voie vers un secteur minier aurifère plus propre, plus sûr et plus durable ».

« Cette approbation est une victoire majeure pour la population et l’environnement du Liberia », a salué Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, directeur exécutif de l’EPA du Liberia. « En traitant à la source la pollution au mercure, nous protégeons nos mineurs, nos rivières et nos forêts, et nous bâtissons un secteur minier aurifère plus propre et plus prospère. Ce projet rapproche le Liberia d’un avenir où la croissance économique et la protection de l’environnement vont de pair, conformément à nos CDN 3.0 (Contributions déterminées au niveau national). »

La contamination au mercure due à l’exploitation minière aurifère représente un grave danger pour la santé humaine, les ressources en eau, les sols et les écosystèmes du Liberia. Le caractère largement informel de l’exploitation minière artisanale a également contribué à la déforestation, à la perte de biodiversité et à l’instabilité économique, limitant l’accès des mineurs aux marchés formels et aux pratiques durables.

Le projet apportera des avantages tangibles, notamment :

  • Une réduction des quantités de mercure de 50 tonnes sur cinq ans.
  • La restauration de 10 000 hectares de terres dégradées.
  • La réduction des émissions de CO₂ de 148 000 tonnes.
  • Une amélioration des conditions de travail et des moyens de subsistance de 20 000 personnes, dont 12 000 femmes.

Grâce à la formalisation, à l’accès au financement, aux technologies propres et à l’engagement communautaire, ce projet met le Liberia en position de pouvoir respecter ses engagements au titre de la Convention de Minamata sur le mercure et de contribuer aux Objectifs de développement durable (ODD) sur le climat, la santé, la biodiversité et le travail décent.

Dans le cadre de l’initiative plus large planetGOLD+, le Liberia bénéficiera d’une collaboration régionale et mondiale, notamment de possibilités d’apprentissage par les pairs et d’un accès à un réseau éprouvé de pratiques innovantes provenant d’autres pays soutenus par le FEM. Cette approche collective renforce non seulement l’extensibilité et la durabilité des efforts nationaux, mais accélère également les progrès mondiaux vers l’élimination du mercure des chaînes d’approvisionnement en or.

En parfaite adéquation avec les engagements pris par le Liberia dans le cadre de la Convention de Minamata sur le mercure, ce projet marque une étape décisive dans la mise en place d’un secteur aurifère exempt de mercure, conciliant protection de l’environnement et développement économique inclusif et durable.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Sonia Borrini
Département du changement climatique et de la croissance verte
Courriel : s.borrini@afdb.org

À propos du FEM :
Le Fonds pour l’environnement mondial (FEM) regroupe plusieurs fonds multilatéraux qui œuvrent de concert pour relever de manière intégrée les défis les plus pressants de la planète. Ses financements aident les pays en développement à relever des défis complexes et à atteindre les objectifs internationaux en matière d’environnement. Au cours des trois dernières décennies, le FEM a fourni plus de 26 milliards de dollars de financement, principalement sous forme de dons, et a mobilisé 153 milliards de dollars supplémentaires pour des projets prioritaires menés par les pays. Pour plus d’informations, veuillez consulter le site https://www.TheGEF.org/

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est la première institution financière de développement en Afrique. Il comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds fiduciaire du Nigeria (NTF). Présente dans 41 pays africains et disposant d’un bureau extérieur au Japon, la Banque contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 États membres régionaux. Pour plus d’informations : www.AfDB.org

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Visitez Dubaï cet hiver en vivant deux expériences mémorables avec Emirates

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Emirates (www.Emirates.com) donne aux voyageurs encore plus de raisons de visiter Dubaï cet hiver, avec une offre spéciale qui combine une hospitalité de classe mondiale et des expériences uniques. Les clients qui réservent des vols aller-retour vers Dubaï jusqu’au 21 décembre 2025 bénéficieront d’un accès gratuit à deux visites et attractions populaires.

Les voyageurs pourront admirer la ligne d’horizon de Dubaï lors d’une magnifique croisière de 90 minutes au coucher du soleil le long de la marina de Dubaï et s’immerger pleinement dans une expérience artistique multisensorielle de pointe au musée Arte de Dubaï.

Cette offre exceptionnelle est valable pour les réservations effectuées entre le 8 et le 21 décembre pour des voyages prévus entre le 7 janvier et le 18 mars 2026.

Croisière au coucher du soleil avec Xclusive Yachts

Embarquez à bord du bateau vitré de 38 mètres de Xclusive Yachts pour une croisière au coucher du soleil et profitez d’une vue imprenable sur la marina de Dubaï. Cette incroyable expérience est agrémentée d’un dîner buffet international avec l’accompagnement relaxant d’un musicien à bord.

Musée Arte de Dubaï

Le musée Arte de Dubaï allie l’art numérique à la narration sensorielle. Des installations immersives et des paysages visuels époustouflants sont mis en valeur par des ambiances sonores originales et des parfums personnalisés, créant une expérience véritablement multisensorielle.

Profitez davantage de vos voyages avec Emirates.

En plus de cette offre exceptionnelle, Emirates continue d’offrir à ses clients davantage d’opportunités pour profiter au maximum de leur séjour à Dubaï, notamment :

• My Emirates Pass – Si un voyage à Dubaï peut se programmer à tout moment de l’année, l’hiver réserve dans cette ville de nombreuses surprises : des festivals en plein air aux plus grandes soldes de la saison. Avec My Emirates Pass, les clients ont accès à plus de 700 offres exclusives dans toute la ville.

  • Partenaires Skywards – Les membres du programme de fidélité primé Emirates Skywards peuvent gagner des miles auprès de partenaires mondiaux (http://apo-opa.co/4qdSb9h) tels que des hôtels, des compagnies aériennes, des agences de location de voitures, des boutiques et des banques. Les membres peuvent convertir ces miles en  billets primes, surclassements ou même en  billets pour des concerts et des événements sportifs.

Pour en savoir plus sur Emirates Skywards, rendez-vous sur : https://apo-opa.co/4j1L5m9. À Dubaï, vous pouvez gagner des miles auprès de partenaires dans toute la ville, tels que Dubai Duty Free, en effectuant des achats via l’application Skywards Everyday, au Dubai Mall, chez Arabian Adventures, Emirates Holidays et bien d’autres encore. Les membres Skywards bénéficient également d’une connexion Wi-Fi gratuite à bord.

Emirates assure actuellement 35 vols hebdomadaires entre la France et Dubaï.

Les billets peuvent être achetés sur www.Emirates.com, dans les agences commerciales Emirates, dans les points de vente Emirates, via l’application Emirates, auprès des agences de voyages ou des agences de voyages en ligne.

Distribué par APO Group pour The Emirates Group.

​Contact presse :
Agence Burson Paris
team.emirates@bursonglobal.com

À propos d’Emirates :
Emirates est une compagnie aérienne internationale parmi les plus primées, présente sur six continents. Elle relie les passagers et facilite le commerce mondial depuis son hub moderne de Dubaï vers plus de 140 destinations. La compagnie exploite l’une des flottes les plus modernes et performantes, composée d’Airbus A380, Airbus 350 et Boeing 777, avions spacieux et confortables. Les passagers voyageant avec Emirates profitent d’une expérience exceptionnelle à bord, avec des produits et services de classe mondiale, des menus d’inspiration régionale et plus de 6 500 chaînes de divertissement à la demande grâce à Ice, le système de divertissement en vol primé d’Emirates. La compagnie dessert la France depuis plus de 30 ans et opère actuellement 35 vols hebdomadaires incluant 3 vols quotidiens en A380 au départ de Paris ; 1 vol quotidien en A380 avec ses cabines renouvelées dont l’économie premium au départ de Nice ; et 1 vol quotidien au départ de Lyon opéré par le tout nouvel A350.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez consulter le site www.Emirates.com. Les billets peuvent également être réservés via l’application Emirates, le service clients Emirates ou auprès des agents de voyages. Les clients peuvent aussi se rendre à l’agence de voyages Emirates Travel Store à Paris, située au 69 Boulevard Haussmann.

Pour plus d’informations, rendez-vous sur www.Emirates.com.

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Efficiency and maintenance critical to water security

Source: Government of South Africa

Efficiency and maintenance critical to water security

Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) Chief Executive Officer, Percy Sechemane, has raised concern over the high levels of water losses in South Africa, particularly at municipal level.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the department of Water and Sanitation’s oversight visit to Lesotho to monitor progress on Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP), Sechemane said while major infrastructure projects, such as the LHWP are critical, the country must also address inefficiencies within existing systems to avoid unnecessary costs.

“We are losing too much water in South Africa at municipal level, and ordinary citizens end up paying higher tariffs because the municipalities add on and then we just bail.

“If we were to bring those efficiencies wherein every drop we can actually account for, then we don’t need to be doing all these other phases, and because the infrastructure is there already, then the cost of water in terms of tariffs would not be escalating as it does,” Sechemane said.

He noted that while it is nice to come and look at the project like LHWP and highlight the amount of money spent on them, it would be nice not to come and build another dam on the other side.

According to Sechemane, much of the required infrastructure is already in place in South Africa, and that proper maintenance could significantly reduce water losses and help stabilise water tariffs.

“What we need to do is ask how do we look at those losses and find out what are we doing [to manage] them. What is a use of building those infrastructure when the water gets lost once it reaches South Africa and the tariffs are going up. We need to look at what we already have, and if you maintain [and optimise] what we already have, we don’t have to spend more money on operating additional assets,” Sechemane said.

Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority is a state-owned entity charged with financing and implementing bulk raw water infrastructure projects. It is an agency of the National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), which is responsible for the country’s water resources in respect of usage, equitable allocation and distribution.

TCTA assists the government in its pursuit of water security for South Africa and in realising its constitutional obligation of ensuring universal access to this essential resource for all citizens. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK

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Majodina calls for responsible water use this festive season

Source: Government of South Africa

Majodina calls for responsible water use this festive season

As South Africans travel to various holiday destinations during the festive season, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, has reiterated her call for the public to use water sparingly.

“Ensure that you close all your taps when you leave home. Don’t pump your swimming pools and avoid irrigating when it is not necessary, especially during the day. [Rather] irrigate in the evening or early morning,” Majodina said.

She added that municipalities also have a responsibility to assess and manage water usage within their jurisdictions.

The Minister also urged members of the public to harvest rain water, noting that government is trying to focus on expanding access to ground water, particularly in rural areas where communities still lack reliable water supply.

“Identify springs that communities grew up using. We want to protect those springs, install pipes, build reservoirs next to them and provide water to communities,” Majodina said.

She cited an example in Mhlontlo in Qumbu, Eastern Cape, where three springs were protected, resulting in water supply to 22 communities.

“When the President said water must be priority number one, that is why we are here. Water is a social and economic need and a catalyst for development. Let us all be committed to that,” she said.

Majodina also warned that water-saving efforts would be undermined if challenges such as leaks, illegal connections, non-payment for services, and unregulated car wash outlets persist.

“It does not matter how many cubic litres are saved if there are leaks, illegal connections and a lack of enforcement of municipal by-laws. This will not assist our country,” she said.

The Minister was speaking on the last day of her two-day oversight visit to Lesotho to monitor progress on Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP).

During the oversight on 14 and 15 December 2025, the Minister visited the construction site of Polihali Dam, and the Katse Dam Outfall Tunnel system and the Senqu bridge, among other infrastructure associated to the project.

She expressed satisfaction with the progress made across the project, adding that houses built for affected communities are expected to be handed over to the beneficiaries by May next year.

“The feeder roads are progressing well. The only outstanding issue is the amendment of the Treaty to allow the project to be handed over to the Lesotho Government for maintenance,” she said.

Majodina also emphasised the need to actively market the recently revamped, state-of-the-art lodge at Katse to ensure its productive use, including the conference facilities.

“Having botanical garden demonstrates our commitment to protect and preserve our environment, and indigenous plants. These [infrastructure projects] have created about 16 000 jobs, and more jobs are to be created. We are packaging a progress report for the next Cabinet meeting,” Majodina said.

The Minister said government wants South Africa to be fully prepared for Phase II of the project, which will significantly increase the volume of water supplied to the country.

She stressed the importance of building reservoirs, fixing leaks and ensuring that water from Phase II benefits additional provinces, including parts of the North West, Free State and Mpumalanga.

“Rand Water is ready for more water to come. They have built enough infrastructure,” Majodina said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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Experience Dubai winter and enjoy two memorable experiences with Emirates

Source: APO – Report:

Emirates (www.Emirates.com) is giving African travellers even more reasons to visit Dubai during its winter season, with a special offer that combines world-class hospitality and unique experiences. Customers from South Africa, Kenya, Senegal, Uganda, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Congo, Tanzania, and Egypt who book return flights to Dubai by 21st December 2025, will enjoy complimentary access to two popular tours and attractions. 

Travellers can take in the Dubai skyline with a gorgeous 90-minute sunset dinner cruise along Dubai Marina and fully immerse themselves in a cutting-edge multi-sensory art experience at the Arte Museum Dubai. 

This limited offer is valid for bookings between 8th and 21st December 2025, for travel between 7th January and 18th March 2026. 

Xclusive Yachts sunset cruise 

Step aboard the Xclusive Yachts sunset cruise on their 125ft glass houseboat and enjoy stunning views of the Dubai Marina. This incredible experience is complemented with an indulgent international buffet dinner and the soothing sounds of an onboard musician as the sun sets over the city. 

Arte Museum Dubai 

Arte Museum Dubai fuses digital artistry with sensory storytelling. Immersive installations and stunning visual landscapes are enhanced by original soundscapes and custom fragrances, creating a truly multi-sensory experience. 

Get more from your travel with Emirates 

Alongside this fantastic offer, Emirates continues to provide African customers with more opportunities to make the most out of their time in Dubai, including: 

  • My Emirates Pass – While a trip to Dubai is a great idea at any time of year, winter in the city offers an array of surprises, from outdoor festivals to the biggest sales of the season. With the My Emirates Pass, customers have access to over 700 exclusive offers across the city. 
  • Skywards Partners - Members of the award-winning loyalty programme, Emirates Skywards can earn Miles with worldwide partners (http://apo-opa.co/4qdSb9h) like hotels, airlines, car rentals, retail and banking. Members can spend these Miles on reward tickets, upgrades, or even tickets for concerts and sports events. Learn more about Emirates Skywards here: https://apo-opa.co/4j1L5m9. While in Dubai, you can earn Miles with partners across the city like Dubai Duty Free, purchases using the Skywards Everyday App, Dubai Mall, Arabian Adventures, Emirates Holidays and more. Skywards members also get free Wi-Fi onboard. 

Tickets can be purchased on www.Emirates.com, at Emirates Sales Offices or Emirates Retail Outlets, through the Emirates App, from travel agents, or through online travel agents.

– on behalf of The Emirates Group.

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SIU freezes R2.7 million used in NLC grant funds

Source: Government of South Africa

SIU freezes R2.7 million used in NLC grant funds

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has successfully obtained a preservation order from the Special Tribunal, allowing it to freeze R2.7 million, including accrued interest, from the sale of land that Tintswalo Patience Chauke received as part of her divorce settlement. 

Chauke was previously married to Alfred Muzwakhe Sigudla, a recipient of multiple grants from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC), until their divorce in 2021.

“This order prohibits Chauke from withdrawing or transferring the funds until the SIU completes a review application to cancel the grant funding that enabled the purchase of the land, thereby ensuring that the potentially misappropriated funds are secured,” the SIU said on Wednesday.

In 2018, the SA Youth Movement NPC, chaired by Sigudla, received approximately R23 million in funding from the NLC for the construction of old-age homes in KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State. 

“However, evidence collected by the SIU reveals that, after receiving these funds, Sigudla transferred a portion to his own companies’ bank accounts and subsequently used them to acquire two luxurious properties, namely in Midstream Estate and Copperleaf Golf Estate. 

“Notably, the Midstream property has been frozen pending completion of the review application into the legitimacy of the grant funding to recover misused NLC funds.

“The primary mission of the SIU is to recover proceeds from beneficiaries of NLC grant funding who are involved in unlawful activities, thereby restoring the State’s financial losses,” the SIU said.

Authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa through Proclamation R32 of 2020, the SIU is dedicated to investigating allegations of corruption and maladministration within the NLC and to recovering financial losses incurred by the State. 

The order from the Special Tribunal represents an important step in the SIU’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability and transparency in the management of public funds. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

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The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) approves Interim Forest Stewardship Standard for Sierra Leone

Source: APO

The IFSS will help guide forest managers, businesses, and other stakeholders in managing forests responsibly and ensuring the sustainable sourcing of forest products within the country.

Complementing national and international commitments

This milestone comes at a time when Sierra Leone is intensifying its efforts to protect its vital forest resources. The IFSS is designed to complement the Protect Sierra Leone Programme (https://ProtectSierraLeone.com), a major government initiative under the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. Launched in early 2025, this programme is designed to safeguard biodiversity and natural resources, including  30×30 targets set by the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) (https://apo-opa.co/4rZQq1p), which aim to protect 30% of the world’s land and ocean by 2030. The programme also supports climate-resilient livelihoods, habitat restoration, community forests, and the growth of green economies.

The new IFSS will also help Sierra Leone meet its international commitments, including its AFR100 (the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative) commitment (https://apo-opa.co/4s2zgju) to restore 0.7 million hectares of land by 2030. It also supports Sierra Leone’s climate change goals, including its commitment to reduce emissions by 10% by 2030 and 25% by 2050, compared to 2005 levels. With this new standard, Sierra Leone can strengthen its forest protection and help reverse the loss of 2.17 million hectares of tree cover between 2001 and 2024, a 39% decrease from 2000.

Opportunities for livelihoods and conservation

Beyond strengthening forest protection, the standard provides crucial opportunities for forest products to play a larger role in providing better employment for locals.

Currently, Sierra Leone has about 14.7% forest cover, with an additional 61.1% of its land classified as other wooded land. With the IFSS in place, the country is better equipped to increase protection for its diverse ecosystems, including evergreen and semi-deciduous rainforests, swamp forests, mangroves, and extensive regenerating forests. This enhanced protection will also enable the country to benefit from ecosystem services.

Finally, the standard provides independent evidence of responsible forest management. It promotes continuous improvement in addressing key issues, such as preserving the country’s biodiversity and protecting the land rights of local communities.

Patrick Epie, FSC’s coordinator for Congo Basin and West Africa, said:

” Sierra Leone’s Interim Forest Stewardship Standard represents a significant milestone in advancing FSC’s mission in West Africa. It provides a robust framework to promote responsible forest management, support national and international environmental commitments, and strengthen community livelihoods. This achievement reinforces Sierra Leone’s commitment to sustainable forest governance and contributes to the broader regional effort to align forest management with global sustainability goals.”

The official (English) version of the IFSS can be consulted in the FSC Document Centre (https://apo-opa.co/4pBXTlD). For more news, visit FSC Africa’s website (https://Africa.FSC.org).

For questions about the standard or the approval process, please get in touch with the FSC Country Requirements Team at country_requirements@fsc.org.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Forest Stewardship Council.

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

FSC Africa
www.Africa.FSC.org
T: +49 (0) 228 367 66 0 
F: +49 (0) 228 367 66 65 
Visit FSC Africa website (https://Africa.FSC.org) for more related news.

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Tribunal welcomes appointments of new judges

Source: Government of South Africa

Tribunal welcomes appointments of new judges

The Companies Tribunal has welcomed the appointment of five judges saying their appointment will enhance the tribunal’s capacity to resolve matters swiftly.

“With their appointment, the Tribunal is poised to elevate its arbitration and alternative dispute resolution functions. Their backgrounds in complex decision-making, mediation of high-level disputes, and the application of principled judgment will enhance the Tribunal’s capacity to resolve matters swiftly, impartially, and in a manner that strengthens confidence in the Tribunal’s ADR mechanism,” the Tribunal said on Monday.

This as Cabinet has appointed the following Judges to serve as members of the Companies 
Tribunal (The Tribunal):

•    Judge Mohammed Navsa, 
•    Judge Kathleen Satchwell, 
•    Judge Robert Nugent, 
•    Judge Boissie Henry Mbha, and 
•    Judge Visvanathan Ponnan.

The tribunal said their collective expertise distinguished judicial careers, and deep commitment to justice bring renewed strength to the Tribunal at a pivotal time in its evolution.

“These esteemed members share a reputation for integrity, fairness, and sound legal reasoning. Each has made a significant contribution to South Africa’s jurisprudence, particularly in areas closely aligned with the Tribunal’s mandate – commercial law, administrative justice, and dispute resolution.

“Their combined experience positions the Tribunal to further entrench a culture of accessible, efficient, and equitable justice for companies and stakeholders across the country,” said the Tribunal.

The Tribunal said it looks forward to the “wisdom, leadership, and innovation, they will undoubtedly contribute towards advancing the Tribunal’s mission of promoting fair, transparent, and developmental business practices in South Africa.”

Judge Dennis Davis, Chairperson of the Companies Tribunal, expressed confidence that the newly appointed Judges will further enrich the Tribunal’s jurisprudence, particularly in the arbitration of company disputes.  –SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo

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From Gorée to Energy Sovereignty: Africa’s Path to Energy Independence

Source: APO

Africa is at a crossroads. The continent is rich in resources, brimming with potential, and finally taking control of its own destiny. Nowhere was this clearer than at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference in Dakar, Senegal, held December 8-10, which brought together governments, investors, energy companies and multilateral organizations to discuss the next chapter of West Africa’s energy revolution. The event was a showcase of opportunity: Senegal and Mauritania are now oil and gas producers, the region is attracting international investment, and African nations are stepping up to define their energy future on their own terms.

The significance of this moment was underscored by a visit to Gorée Island following the event. The island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a powerful reminder of a time when Africans had no say over their own fate. Walking through the Maison des Esclaves and the “Door of No Return” reflected the parallels between history and today’s energy debate. Just as past generations were stripped of agency, the Western world now pressures Africa to abandon its hydrocarbons ambitions – despite the continent needing its oil and gas to lift millions out of energy poverty and power industrial growth. For the African Energy Chamber (AEC), energy sovereignty represents a pathway toward self-determination, opportunity and a thriving future.

The AEC has long championed the idea that Africa must develop its resources to secure its people’s future. More than 600 million Africans still lack access to electricity, and millions rely on biomass for cooking and heating. Oil and gas development, particularly natural gas, offers a fast, practical and scalable solution to deliver reliable, affordable energy while funding industrialization, education, healthcare and infrastructure. The Chamber frames this as both a moral and economic imperative: energy independence is essential for prosperity, and Africa has the right to decide its own path.

This message resonated throughout the MSGBC conference, where the Gas Exporting countries Forum (GECF) played a central role. Secretary General Eng. Mohamed Hamel delivered a keynote highlighting Senegal’s first oil and gas production from the Sangomar and Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) projects, praising the country for entering a new era of energy prosperity. Through technical workshops, market outlook sessions and high-level interventions, the GECF demonstrated its commitment to supporting emerging producers, providing data-driven insights and helping African gas resources drive long-term economic growth. Both the GECF and the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization were recognized for their leadership at this year’s conference for leadership in fostering regional and global energy collaboration, reinforcing investor confidence in Africa’s energy sector.

The MSGBC region itself is a story of optimism. The GTA LNG project, a cross-border venture between Senegal and Mauritania led by bp and Kosmos Energy, shipped its first LNG cargo in April 2025, while Senegal’s Sangomar oil field, operated by Woodside Energy in partnership with Petrosen, started producing in June 2024. Exploration is accelerating, with Guinea-Conakry launching a 22-block bid round and The Gambia promoting offshore acreage with estimated reserves of 1.2 billion barrels. Infrastructure projects, gas-to-power plants and regional energy integration initiatives are progressing quickly, while Mauritania positions itself as a global green hydrogen hub.

“The story of Gorée Island and the story of Africa’s energy development are intertwined,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC. “Just as the island is a reminder of lost agency, the continent’s current challenge is ensuring it can use its resources without external interference. Africa is proving it can responsibly develop oil and gas, attract investment and drive sustainable growth – all while asserting its sovereignty.”

For the AEC, the message is clear: Africa’s resources are not a burden or a bargaining chip. They are the engine for industrialization, job creation and energy access. With projects like GTA, Sangomar and future green hydrogen ventures, and with the backing of organizations like the GECF, Africa is seizing control of its energy destiny. Gorée is a symbol for a powerful lesson: Africa is choosing to power its people, secure its future and show the world what self-determined energy development can achieve.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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