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La Première Dame et Ministre de la Santé du Kenya a salué l’octroi par la Fondation Merck de 328 bourses d’études à des professionnels de la santé dans 42 spécialités critiques à travers le Kenya, en collaboration avec les Sociétés Médicales du Kenya

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, a lancé son Programme « Éduquer Linda » à la Maison d’État du Kenya, en partenariat avec S.E. Mme Rachel Ruto E.G.H, Première Dame de la République du Kenya et Ambassadrice de la campagne « Fondation Merck Plus Qu’une Mère ». À cette occasion, le Sommet des Anciens Boursiers de la Fondation Merck au Kenya 2026 s’est tenu afin de mettre en lumière l’impact de leur programme de bourses, dont l’objectif est de renforcer les capacités du système de santé et de transformer les soins aux patients à travers tout le Kenya.

La Première Dame de la République du Kenya, S.E. Mme Rachel Ruto E.G.H., Chairman du Conseil d’Administration de la Fondation Merck, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, CEO de la Fondation Merck et Présidente de la Campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère », Dr. Rasha Kelej et le Ministre de la Santé du Kenya, l’honorable Aden Duale ont assisté au programme.

Sénatrice Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret), CEO de la Fondation Merck et Présidente de la Campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère », a déclaré : « C’est un grand plaisir de rencontrer ma chère sœur, S.E. Mme RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., Première Dame de la République du Kenya, et de saluer son engagement exceptionnel en tant qu’Ambassadrice de la Campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère » de la Fondation Merck.

Je suis fière que, grâce à notre partenariat de longue date, nous ayons octroyé 328 bourses d’études à de jeunes professionnels de santé kenyans dans 44 spécialités essentielles et sous-dotées. Je suis également heureuse de constater que près de 50 % de ces bourses ont été attribuées à des femmes, ce qui confirme notre engagement en faveur de l’autonomisation des femmes.

Ce fut également un plaisir de rencontrer le Ministre de la Santé du Kenya, l’honorable Aden Duale, et nos anciens boursiers, qui représentent la relève des professionnels de santé kenyans. »

« Nous espérons étendre notre programme de bourses à un plus grand nombre de professionnels de santé, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Kenya et en collaboration avec les Sociétés Médicales et le Ministère de la Santé, dès que possible », a-t-elle ajouté.

S.E. Mme Rachel Ruto E.G.H., Première Dame de la République du Kenya, a déclaré : « Grâce à notre partenariat fructueux avec la Fondation Merck, nous ne nous contentons pas de mettre en œuvre des programmes, nous transformons des vies. Ensemble, nous renforçons nos capacités en matière de soins de santé, nous autonomisons les filles par l’éducation, nous luttons contre la stigmatisation de l’infertilité et nous nous abordons d’autres défis sociaux et sanitaires cruciaux au Kenya. Nous sommes extrêmement fiers d’avoir pu, grâce à ce solide partenariat, octroyer 328 bourses d’études à nos professionnels de la santé, non seulement dans la capitale, mais dans tout le pays. Cela représente un investissement important dans l’avenir de notre système de santé, un engagement à développer l’expertise là où elle est le plus nécessaire et une étape significative vers un accès équitable à des soins de qualité pour tous nos citoyens.

Parallèlement, nous sommes tout aussi fiers de soutenir l’éducation de 47 écolières kényanes brillantes mais défavorisées, en leur octroyant des bourses d’études annuelles jusqu’à l’obtention de leur diplôme. En autonomisant ces jeunes filles par l’éducation, nous transformons non seulement des vies individuelles, mais nous bâtissons également des familles et des communautés plus fortes, et un avenir meilleur pour notre nation. »

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman du Conseil d’Administration de la Fondation Merck, a ajouté : « Notre objectif est d’améliorer la santé et le bien-être général de la population en renforçant les capacités du système de santé au Kenya et dans les pays en voie de développement. Nous sommes fermement engagés à transformer la prise en charge des patients grâce à notre programme de bourses. »

L’honorable Aden Duale, Secrétaire du Cabinet au Ministère de la Santé du Kenya, a déclaré : « Nous sommes sincèrement reconnaissants envers le programme de bourses de la Fondation Merck, grâce auquel 328 bourses ont été octroyées à ce jour à nos professionnels de santé locaux dans de nombreuses spécialités essentielles et sous-desservies, contribuant ainsi à développer et à renforcer nos capacités dans tout le pays. »

L’une des spécialités importantes sur lesquelles la Fondation Merck se concentre au Kenya en 2025 et 2026 est la bourse menant à un Diplôme d’un an en Nutrition, afin de soutenir le programme d’alimentation et de sécurité alimentaire de la Première Dame du Kenya.

Plus de 90 bourses sont dédiées à cette spécialité dans les 47 provinces du Kenya. Cela engendrera un changement culturel favorisant l’adoption d’un mode de vie sain pour l’ensemble de la population, contribuant ainsi à des communautés plus saines et, par conséquent, au développement socio-économique du pays tout entier.

Les lauréats kenyans des Prix des Médias de la Fondation Merck 2024 et 2025 étaient également présents.

« Ce fut un plaisir de rencontrer et de célébrer nos lauréats, ces champions de la santé et du social, qui portent la voix des sans-voix », a ajouté le Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Sur un total de 328 bourses d’études, la Fondation Merck a octroyé :

  • 121 bourses d’études pour des diplômes post-universitaire d’un an et des masters de deux ans en Diabétologie, Médecine Cardiovasculaire Préventive, Cardiologie et Endocrinologie. Ces programmes permettent aux médecins de créer des cliniques spécialisées en diabétologie à travers le pays.
  • 10 bourses d’études en Oncologie, une spécialité essentielle pour renforcer les capacités de prise en charge du cancer.
  • 49 bourses d’études en Fertilité, Embryologie et Médecine Reproductive dans le cadre de la campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère », apportant espoir et soutien aux couples confrontés à l’infertilité.
  • 148 bourses d’études pour d’autres spécialités importantes telles que la Médecine Interne, Psychiatrie, Neurologie, Médecine d’Urgence, Dermatologie et bien d’autres, contribuant significativement au renforcement du système de santé kenyan.

Au total, la Fondation Merck a octroyé plus de 2 600 bourses d’études à des professionnels de santé dans 44 spécialités essentielles et sous-représentées, provenant de plus de 52 pays.

Lors du Sommet, les anciens boursiers de la Fondation Merck ont partagé des témoignages inspirants sur la façon dont ces bourses ont transformé leur parcours professionnel et amélioré les soins aux patients dans leurs communautés.

La Fondation Merck, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Kenya, lance également des livres pour enfants – « Plus Qu’une Mère », « Éduquer Linda », « Le Secours de Jackline », « Pas qui vous êtes », « Une balade vers le futur », « Jude Sans Sucre » et « La Tension de Mark » – en anglais et en swahili, afin de sensibiliser les jeunes enfants aux enjeux sociaux et sanitaires cruciaux. Des milliers d’exemplaires seront distribués dans les écoles du Kenya. Ces livres ont également été adaptés en films d’animation pour amplifier leur impact.

Par ailleurs, la Fondation Merck a organisé quatre sessions de Formation en ligne des Médias sur la Santé à destination des journalistes kenyans. L’objectif est de les outiller pour sensibiliser le public aux questions sociales et sanitaires sensibles, telles que la lutte contre la stigmatisation de l’infertilité, le soutien à l’éducation des filles, l’éradication du mariage des enfants et des violences sexistes, et la promotion de modes de vie sains.

La Fondation Merck, en collaboration avec la Première Dame du Kenya, organise chaque année des prix destinés aux médias, aux musiciens, aux cinéastes et aux créateurs de mode afin d’encourager les talents créatifs à sensibiliser le public aux grands enjeux sociaux.

La Fondation Merck, en partenariat avec la Première Dame de la République du Kenya, a également lancé un appel à candidatures pour ses huit prix annuels, destinés aux médias, aux musiciens, aux créateurs de mode, aux cinéastes, aux étudiants et aux jeunes talents prometteurs dans ces domaines.

Détails des Prix :

1. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias Africains de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : les représentants des médias et les étudiants en journalisme sont invités à présenter leur travail pour sensibiliser l’opinion à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

2. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 :  tous les cinéastes africains, étudiants des établissements de formation en réalisation cinématographique ou jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un long ou un court métrage, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame, pour transmettre des messages forts et influents sur un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

3. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour transmettre des messages forts et influents afin de sensibiliser à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

4. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but d’aborder un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

5. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : les représentants des médias sont invités à présenter leur travail à travers des messages forts et influents pour promouvoir un mode de vie sain et sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

6. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les cinéastes africains, étudiants des établissements de formation en réalisation cinématographique ou jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un long ou un court FILMS, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame, pour délivrer des messages forts et influents visant à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

7. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour transmettre des messages forts et influents visant à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

8. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but de promouvoir un mode de vie sain et de sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

Postulez ici : https://apo-opa.co/4e3o6EY

Les candidatures pour tous les prix doivent être soumises par courrier électronique à : submit@merck-foundation.com

Distribué par APO Group pour Merck Foundation.

Contacter :
Mehak Handa
Responsable du programme de sensibilisation communautaire
Téléphone : +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
E-mail : mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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À propos de la Fondation Merck :
La Fondation Merck, créée en 2017, est la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, vise à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des populations et à faire progresser leur vie grâce à la science et à la technologie. Nos efforts sont principalement axés sur l’amélioration de l’accès à des solutions de soins de santé de qualité et équitables dans les communautés mal desservies, à renforcer les capacités de recherche sur les soins de santé et la recherche scientifique, l’autonomisation des filles à travers l’éducation et l’autonomisation des personnes en STEM (Science, Technologie, Ingénierie et Mathématiques) avec un accent particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes. Tous les communiqués de presse de la Fondation Merck sont distribués par e-mail en même temps qu’ils deviennent disponibles sur le site Web de la Fondation Merck. Veuillez visiter www.Merck-Foundation.com pour en savoir plus. Pour en savoir plus, contactez nos réseaux sociaux de la Fondation Merck : Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4odluJm), X (https://apo-opa.co/4dZj2mw), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4ga9RAY), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4uu5zYB), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4dZkx3Z) et Flickr : (https://apo-opa.co/4xpPR3J).

La Fondation Merck se consacre à l’amélioration des résultats sociaux et sanitaires pour les communautés dans le besoin. Bien qu’elle collabore avec divers partenaires, y compris des gouvernements, pour atteindre ses objectifs humanitaires, la fondation reste strictement neutre sur le plan politique. Elle ne s’engage pas et ne soutient pas d’activités, d’élections ou de régimes politiques, se focalise uniquement sur sa mission d’élever l’humanité et d’améliorer le bien-être tout en maintenant une position strictement apolitique dans toutes ses activités.

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Children surviving on leaves and water lilies as conflict drives parts of South Sudan to the brink of famine – Save the Children

Source: APO


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Families and children in South Sudan’s eastern Jonglei state are surviving on leaves and water lilies as hunger surges towards famine levels in parts of the country following three months of escalating violence, Save the Children said.

Many families in Jonglei state have been left without essential and life-saving services since an escalation in violence in March led to the suspension of aid operations in areas and government orders to aid agencies to evacuate, triggering mass displacement.

Save the Children suspended its humanitarian operations in Akobo East – a refuge for people fleeing violence across Jonglei – and relocated staff due to increased violence. 

The withdrawal of services followed a similar suspension of operations in February in Walgak in Jonglei after armed gangs looted and vandalized a Save the Children office, destroyed a healthcare centre, and took three of the organisation’s vehicles.

Save the Children staff working in neighbouring counties have reported hearing horrific stories of families going without humanitarian aid while flooding worsens.

In some parts of the state, families and children are surviving on leaves and water lilies collected from swamps and seeds reserved for planting, while mothers walk for hours through floodplains to find anything edible for their children. 

Save the Children said thousands of children are no longer attending school, while others are being forced into labour or early marriage as families struggle to survive. In areas where schools remain accessible, some children have stopped attending because they are too weak from hunger. 

The extreme coping mechanisms come as the latest analysis by the Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) – the leading global authority on the severity of hunger crises – showed that four counties, including Nyirol and Akobo in Jonglei state, are at risk of famine.

According to the IPC, more than 7.8 million people – or six in 10 people in South Sudan – are facing acute food insecurity. About 2.2 million children under five require treatment for acute malnutrition—an increase of around 90,000 cases since the previous analysis.  Nearly 700,000 children are suffering from severe acute malnutrition – the deadliest form of hunger that requires urgent medical attention and specialised treatment. 

Health workers have reported children arriving at nutrition centres severely malnourished after surviving for weeks on diluted porridge or a mix of salt and flour. 

This deteriorating situation has become evident at a nutrition site at Bor Hospital in Jonglei state’s Bor County, where Save the Children operates three different programmes helping to screen and treat malnourished children and breastfeeding or pregnant mothers. Tabisa Ajer, 31, a health care worker at the hospital said: 

“We have over 60 children who are severely malnourished right now. Usually, we have 60 later in the wet season when malnutrition tends to spike but the number is high for this early on. The numbers have spiked due to the season and the worsening hunger crisis, flooding and insecurity. A lot of children coming here have diarrhea and vomiting. 

“We are just at the start of the rainy season now, and June to August the hunger situation usually worsens. This year is more dangerous than the other years. Insecurity is impacting food cultivation.”

Chris Nyamandi, Country Director for Save the Children in South Sudan, said: 

“Solutions to extreme hunger are political. This situation can be prevented and mitigated, before more children suffer. Next month South Sudan will mark 15 years of independence and greater investment in inclusive peace and social protection is needed to prevent violence amidst an escalating, underfunded humanitarian crisis response.

“In an already hyper-prioritised humanitarian system, international aid cuts continue to disproportionately impact those most vulnerable in one of the world’s most fragile states.” 

Save the Children calls on all parties to the conflict to prioritize the protection of civilians, respect international humanitarian law, and ensure safe, sustained, and unhindered humanitarian access to already affected communities. 

The aid agency is also calling for greater and more flexible resources needed to respond to the dire needs of the displaced populations in strained communities, with funding flows designed to reach local actors delivering principled aid.

Save the Children has worked in South Sudan since 1991, providing children with access to education, healthcare and nutrition services, and supporting families with food security and livelihoods assistance.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Save the Children.

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Kenya’s First Lady and Minister of Health acknowledged Merck Foundation’s 328 Scholarships provided for Healthcare Providers in 42 Critical Specialties across Kenya Nationwide in Collaboration with Kenya Medical Societies

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, launched their Educating Linda Program to support girl education at Kenya State House, in partnership with H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H, The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya and Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. During the visit, the Merck Foundation Kenya Alumni Summit 2026 was also conducted to highlight the impact of their scholarships program with the aim to build healthcare capacity and transform patient care landscape across Kenya nationwide.

The program was attended by The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, and CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign, Dr. Rasha Kelej and Kenya Minister of Health, Hon. Aden Duale.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign emphasized, “It is a great pleasure to meet my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H. First Lady of the Republic of Kenya and to recognize her for her tremendous efforts as the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”.

I am proud that through our long-term partnership we have provided 328 scholarships for young Kenyan healthcare providers in 44 critical and underserved specialties. I am also happy to share that nearly 50% of these scholarships have been awarded to women healthcare providers, reinforcing our commitment to women empowerment.

It was also great meeting Kenya Minister of Health, Hon. Aden Duale and our Alumni, who are the future healthcare experts of Kenya.”

“We are looking forward to extending our scholarship program to more healthcare providers in partnership with First Lady of Kenya and in collaboration with Medical Societies and Ministry of Health when possible.” She added.

H.E. Mrs. Rachel Ruto E.G.H., The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya expressed,

“Through our impactful partnership with Merck Foundation, we are not just implementing programs, we are transforming lives. Together, we are strengthening our healthcare capacity, empowering girls through education, breaking infertility stigma, and addressing other critical social and health challenges across Kenya. We are immensely proud that, through our strong partnership, we have been able to provide 328 scholarships for our healthcare providers, not only in the capital city, but across the country. It represents a powerful investment in the future of our healthcare system, a commitment to building expertise where it is needed most, and a significant step towards ensuring equitable access to quality care for all our people.

At the same time, we are equally proud to support the education of 47 high-performing yet underprivileged Kenyan schoolgirls, providing them with annual scholarships till they graduate. By empowering these young girls through education, we are not only transforming individual lives, but also shaping stronger families, communities, and a brighter future for our nation.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees added, “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity in Kenya and across developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patient care through our scholarships program.”

Hon. Aden Duale, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Health, Kenya shared, “We sincerely appreciate the Merck Foundation Scholarships Program through which 328 scholarships have been provided till today for our local healthcare providers in many critical underserved specialties, helping us to build and strengthen our healthcare capacity, across the country.”

One of the important specialties that Merck Foundation is focusing on in 2025 and 2026 in Kenya is the scholarship of One Year Diploma in Nutrition, to support the program of Feeding and Food Security of Kenya First Lady.

More than 90 scholarships are dedicated to this specialty across the 47 provinces of Kenya. This will create a culture shift in leading a healthy lifestyle for the whole population which will contribute to healthier communities and hence social and economic development of the whole country nationwide.

The program was also attended by the Kenyan winners of Merck Foundation Media Awards 2024 and 2025.

“It was a pleasure meeting and celebrating our Winners, the health and social champions, who are the voice of the voiceless”, added Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Out of the total 328 scholarships, Merck Foundation has provided:

  • 121 scholarships for one-year postgraduate diplomas and two-year master’s degrees in Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, and Endocrinology. These programs enable doctors to establish specialized diabetes clinics across the country.
  • 10 scholarships for Oncology, which is a critical specialty to strengthen cancer care capacity.
  • 49 scholarships for Fertility, Embryology, and Reproductive Medicine under the “More Than a Mother” campaign, bringing hope and support to couples facing infertility challenges.
  • 148 scholarships for other important specialties such as Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Neurology, Emergency Medicine, Dermatology, and many more, contributing significantly to strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system.

Merck Foundation has overall provided more than 2,600 scholarships for healthcare providers in 44 critical and undeserved specialties from over 52 countries.

During the Summit, Merck Foundation alumni shared inspiring testimonies on how these scholarships have transformed their professional journeys and improved patient care in their communities.

Merck Foundation, in partnership with the First Lady of Kenya, is also launching children’s storybooks — “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future”, “Sugar Free Jude” and “Mark’s Pressure” in English and Swahili to raise awareness about critical social and health issues among young children. Thousands of copies will be distributed across schools in Kenya. These storybooks have also been adapted into animated films to further enhance their impact.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has conducted 4 Editions of their Online Health Media Training for Kenyan journalists to empower them to raise awareness about sensitive social and health issues such as breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending child marriage and GBV, and promoting healthy lifestyle practices.

Merck Foundation, together with the First Lady of Kenya, also organizes annual awards for media, musicians, filmmakers, and fashion designers to encourage creative talents to raise awareness about important social issues.

Merck Foundation in partnership with the First Lady of the Republic of Kenya has also announced the Call for Application for their 8 important annual Awards for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Details of the Awards:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026:  All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

6. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

7. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

Apply here: https://apo-opa.co/4e3o6EY

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to:

submit@merck-foundation.com

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

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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/4odluJm), X (https://apo-opa.co/4dZj2mw), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4ga9RAY), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4uu5zYB), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4dZkx3Z) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4xpPR3J).

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.

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Refugee Appeals Authority issues urgent call to asylum seekers

Source: Government of South Africa

Refugee Appeals Authority issues urgent call to asylum seekers

The Refugee Appeals Authority (RAA) has called on all asylum seekers with pending appeals, who are currently gathered outside the Durban Refugee Reception Office, to report to the Authority’s offices as a matter of urgency to receive and acknowledge notices relating to their appeals.

These appellants form part of the RAA’s priority backlog programme aimed at expediting the finalisation of outstanding appeals.

“In terms of Rule 10 of the Refugee Appeals Authority Rules, appellants are ordinarily entitled to receive at least 30 days’ notice of a hearing,” the Department of Home Affairs said in a statement. 

However, given the urgent circumstances and the need to address pending appeals as swiftly as possible, the Authority invites affected appellants to consent to a reduced notice period of 10 days.

Consent to the reduced notice period will enable the Authority to schedule and finalise hearings on an expedited basis, thereby providing appellants with an opportunity to obtain a final determination of their asylum status without further delay.

“Failure to report for service of notices may result in an appeal being determined on the documents before the Authority, as provided for in law. Such determinations will constitute the final determination of the appeal,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Primeira-Dama e Ministra da Saúde do Quénia reconheceram as 328 bolsas de estudo concedidas pela Fundação Merck a profissionais de saúde em 42 especialidades essenciais em todo o Quénia, em colaboração com as Sociedades Médicas do Quénia

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA, Alemanha, lançou o programa Educar Linda para apoiar a educação de meninas no Palácio Presidencial do Quénia, em parceria com a Excelentíssima Senhora Rachel Ruto, Primeira-Dama da República do Quénia e Embaixadora da campanha “Fundação Merck Mais que uma Mãe”. Durante a visita, também foi realizada a Cúpula de Ex-Alunos da Fundação Merck Quénia 2026 para destacar o impacto do programa de bolsas de estudo, cujo objetivo é fortalecer a capacidade da área da saúde e transformar o cenário do atendimento ao paciente em todo o Quénia.

O programa contou com a presença da Primeira-Dama da República do Quénia, Excelentíssima Senhora Rachel Ruto, do Presidente do Conselho de Curadores da Merck Foundation, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, ​​da CEO da Fundação Merck e Presidente da campanha Senhora Rachel Ruto, Primeira-Dama da República do Quénia e Embaixadora da campanha “Fundação Merck Mais que uma Mãe”, Dra. Rasha Kelej, e do Ministro da Saúde do Quénia, Hon. Aden Duale.

A Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej (aposentada), CEO da Fundação Merck e Presidente da campanha “Mais que uma Mãe”, enfatizou: “É um grande prazer conhecer minha querida irmã, S. Exa. Sra. RACHEL RUTO, Primeira-Dama da República do Quénia, e reconhecê-la por seus enormes esforços como Embaixadora da campanha “Mais que uma Mãe” da Fundação Merck.

Tenho orgulho de que, por meio de nossa parceria de longa data, tenhamos concedido 328 bolsas de estudo para jovens profissionais de saúde quenianos em 44 especialidades críticas e carentes. Também fico feliz em compartilhar que quase 50% dessas bolsas foram concedidas a profissionais de saúde do sexo feminino, reforçando nosso compromisso com o empoderamento feminino.

Foi ótimo também conhecer o Ministro da Saúde do Quénia, Hon. Aden Duale, e nossos ex-alunos, que são os futuros especialistas em saúde do Quénia.”

“Esperamos expandir nosso programa de bolsas de estudo para mais profissionais de saúde em parceria com a Primeira-Dama do Quénia e em colaboração com as Sociedades Médicas e o Ministério da Saúde, sempre que possível”, acrescentou.

S. Exª. Srª. Rachel Ruto E.G.H.,  Primeira-Dama da República do Quénia disse: “Por meio da nossa parceria impactante com a Fundação Merck, não estamos apenas a implementar programas, estamos a transformar vidas. Juntos, estamos a fortalecer a nossa capacidade de atendimento à saúde, empoderando meninas através da educação, combatendo o estigma da infertilidade e abordando outros desafios sociais e de saúde críticos em todo o Quénia. Temos imenso orgulho de que, por meio da nossa sólida parceria, tenhamos conseguido fornecer 328 bolsas de estudo para nossos profissionais de saúde, não apenas na capital, mas em todo o país. Isso representa um investimento poderoso no futuro do nosso sistema de saúde, um compromisso com a formação de especialistas onde ela é mais necessária e um passo significativo para garantir o acesso equitativo a cuidados de qualidade para toda a nossa população.

Ao mesmo tempo, temos o mesmo orgulho de apoiar a educação de 47 meninas quenianas de alto desempenho, porém carentes, oferecendo-lhes bolsas de estudo anuais até a formatura. Ao empoderar essas jovens por meio da educação, não estamos apenas a transformar vidas individuais, mas também a moldar famílias e comunidades mais fortes e um futuro mais promissor para a nossa nação.”

O Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, ​​Presidente do Conselho de Curadores da Fundação Merck acrescentou: “O nosso objectivo é melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar geral das pessoas, fortalecendo a capacidade do sistema de saúde no Quénia e noutros países em desenvolvimento. Estamos  fortemente comprometidos em transformar o atendimento ao paciente por meio do nosso programa de bolsas de estudo.”

Hon. Aden Duale, Secretário de Estado do Ministério da Saúde do Quénia partilhou: “Agradecemos sinceramente o Programa de Bolsas de Estudo da Fundação Merck, por meio do qual 328 bolsas de estudo foram concedidas até hoje a profissionais de saúde locais em diversas especialidades críticas e carentes, ajudando-nos a construir e fortalecer a nossa capacidade de atendimento de saúde em todo o país.”

Uma das especialidades importantes em que a Fundação Merck está a concentrar-se em 2025 e 2026 no Quénia é a bolsa de estudos para o Diploma de um ano em Nutrição, para apoiar o programa de Alimentação e Segurança Alimentar da Primeira-Dama do Quénia.

Mais de 90 bolsas de estudo são dedicadas a esta especialidade nas 47 províncias do Quénia. Isso criará uma mudança cultural na adopção de um estilo de vida saudável para toda a população, o que contribuirá para comunidades mais saudáveis ​​e, consequentemente, para o desenvolvimento social e económico de todo o país.

O programa também contou com a presença dos vencedores quenianos do Prémio de Jornalismo da Fundação Merck de 2024 e 2025.

“Foi um prazer manter encontro e celebrar os nossos vencedores, os campeões da saúde e do bem-estar social, que são a voz dos que não têm voz”, acrescentou a Dra. Rasha Kelej.

Do total de 328 bolsas de estudo, a Fundação Merck concedeu:

• 121 bolsas de estudo para diplomas de pós-graduação de um ano e mestrados de dois anos em Diabetes, Medicina Cardiovascular Preventiva, Cardiologia e Endocrinologia. Esses programas permitem que os médicos estabeleçam clínicas especializadas em diabetes em todo o país.

  • 10 bolsas de estudo para Oncologia, uma especialidade crucial para fortalecer a capacidade de atendimento ao câncer.
  • 49 bolsas de estudo em Fertilidade, Embriologia e Medicina Reprodutiva no âmbito da campanha “Mais que uma Mãe”, trazendo esperança e apoio a casais que enfrentam desafios de infertilidade.
  • 148 bolsas de estudo para outras especialidades importantes, como Medicina Interna, Psiquiatria, Neurologia, Medicina de Emergência, Dermatologia e muitas outras, contribuindo significativamente para o fortalecimento do sistema de saúde do Quénia.

A Fundação Merck concedeu, no total, mais de 2.600 bolsas de estudo para profissionais de saúde em 44 especialidades críticas e carentes de recursos, provenientes de mais de 52 países.

Durante a Cúpula, ex-bolseiros da Fundação Merck compartilharam depoimentos inspiradores sobre como essas bolsas transformaram as suas trajetórias profissionais e melhoraram o atendimento ao paciente nas suas comunidades.

A Fundação Merck, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama do Quénia, também está a lançar livros infantis — “Mais que uma Mãe”, “Educar Linda”, “Resgate de Jaqueline”, “Você Não É Quem É”, “Viagem ao Futuro”, “Jude Sem Açúcar” e “Pressão de Mark” — em inglês e swahíli, para conscientizar crianças pequenas sobre questões sociais e de saúde cruciais. Milhares de exemplares serão distribuídos em escolas do Quénia. Esses livros também foram adaptados para filmes de animação para ampliar ainda mais seu impacto.

Além disso, a Fundação Merck realizou quatro edições do seu Treinamento Online em Mídia da Saúde para jornalistas quenianos, com o objectivo de capacitá-los a conscientizar sobre questões sociais e de saúde sensíveis, como o combate ao estigma da infertilidade, o apoio à educação de meninas, o fim do casamento infantil e da violência do género e a promoção de práticas de estilo de vida saudáveis.

A Fundação Merck, em conjunto com a Primeira-Dama do Quénia, também organiza prêémios anuais para profissionais do jornalismo, músicos, cineastas e estilistas, com o objectivo de incentivar talentos criativos a conscientizar o público sobre importantes questões sociais.

A Fundação Merck, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da República do Quénia, também anunciou a abertura das candidaturas para os seus 8 importantes prémios anuais nas áreas de mídia, música, moda, cinema, estudantes e novos talentos promissores nesses campos.

Informações sobre os Prémios:

1. Prémio de Jornalismo África Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Representantes da mídia e estudantes de comunicação são convidados a apresentar seus trabalhos para conscientizar sobre uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Combater o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou erradicar a violência de gênero em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

2. Prémio do Cinema Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026:  Todos os cineastas africanos, estudantes de instituições de formação cinematográfica ou jovens talentos da África estão convidados a criar e compartilhar um filme ou curta-metragem, seja drama, documentário ou docudrama, que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes que abordem uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou combater a violência do género em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Todos os estudantes e estilistas de moda africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar designs que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes para conscientizar sobre uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderamento feminino, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou combater a violência de gênero em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Todos os cantores e artistas musicais africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar uma MÚSICA com o objectivo de abordar uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou acabar com a violência do género em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

5. Prémio de Jornalismo Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Os representantes da mídia são convidados a apresentar o seu trabalho través de mensagens fortes e impactantes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

6. Prémio do Cinema Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os cineastas africanos, estudantes de instituições de formação cinematográfica ou jovens talentos da África estão convidados a criar e compartilhar um filme ou curta-metragem, seja drama, documentário ou docudrama, que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes que promovam um estilo de vida saudável e aumentem a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce de diabetes e hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

7. Prémio de Moda Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os estudantes e designers de moda africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar designs que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

8. Prémio da Canção Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os cantores e artistas musicais africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar uma música com o objectivo de promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

Inscreva-se aqui: https://apo-opa.co/4e3o6EY

As inscrições para todos os prêmios devem ser enviadas por e-mail para:

submit@merck-foundation.com

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Junte-se à conversa nas plataformas das nossas mídias sociais e deixe a sua voz ser ouvida!
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Sobre a Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha, tem como objectivo melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e aprimorar as suas vidas atravez da ciência e da tecnologia. Os nossos esforços estão focados principalmente na melhoria do acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carenciadas, no desenvolvimento da capacidade de saúde e na investigação científica, no empoderamento das raparigas na educação e no empoderamento de pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática) com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck. Visite www.Merck-Foundation.com para ler mais. Siga a mídia social da Fundação Merck: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4odluJm), X (https://apo-opa.co/4dZj2mw), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4ga9RAY), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4uu5zYB), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4dZkx3Z) e Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4xpPR3J).

A Fundação Merck está dedicada a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde para comunidades necessitadas. Embora colabore com vários parceiros, incluindo governos, para atingir os seus objectivos humanitários, a Fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Ela não se envolve ou apoia nenhuma actividade política, eleições ou regimes, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e melhorar o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

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SARS, DPCI seizes 30 bricks of cocaine at the Port of Durban

Source: Government of South Africa

SARS, DPCI seizes 30 bricks of cocaine at the Port of Durban

The South African Revenue Service (SARS), working with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), has secured the seizure of 30 bricks of cocaine at the Port of Durban.

Tuesday’s interception at the KwaZulu-Natal coast follows closely on the heels of another major seizure just three days earlier, during which approximately 90 kg of cocaine concealed in trucks arriving from Brazil was intercepted at the same port. 

READ | Crackdown on drugs continues as SARS intercepts Durban port consignment 

These operations point to intensified efforts by organised crime syndicates to move narcotics through South Africa’s trade gateways, matched by a coordinated and robust response from law enforcement agencies.

The interception forms part of ongoing collaborative efforts between SARS and both local and international law enforcement partners to combat illicit trade and transnational organised crime. 

Through intelligence-led risk profiling and targeting methodologies, a container vessel originating from South America was identified for inspection upon arrival at the Port of Durban.

The Durban Customs team boarded the vessel and located the targeted container, which was positioned below the waterline. 

During the inspection process, customs officials identified signs that parts of the container apparatus had been tampered with. This prompted a more intrusive inspection, which led to the discovery of concealed narcotics. A mobile testing kit subsequently confirmed the substance to be 30 bricks of pure cocaine.

The consignment was identified through intelligence-led profiling and risk assessment conducted by SARS Customs officers. Targeted inspections, supported by detector dogs and on-site verification, resulted in the detection and recovery of the concealed drugs.

SARS Commissioner, Dr Johnstone Makhubu and Acting National Head of the Hawks, Lieutenant General Sphesihle Nkosi, highlighted the strength of coordinated enforcement efforts across government agencies.

“This is what it means to act as one government. SARS and the Hawks are cooperating seamlessly, with one agency acting on intelligence and handing over to the other as part of a single value chain. 

“These interceptions demonstrate that we are disrupting and closing down the space for criminal networks to operate. 

“We are strengthening monitoring at our ports through improved cargo profiling and targeted inspections. Our message is clear: South Africa’s borders are not open to illicit trade,” Dr Makhubu said.

“Drugs are destroying families, communities and the country as a whole. This is not a localised problem; it cuts across every sector of society. We will continue to work with our partners to dismantle these networks and protect our economy and our people,” he said.

Lieutenant General Nkosi said the results underscore the value of focused cooperation between agencies.

“These successes are the result of disciplined cooperation. When we pool our capabilities, we are better able to detect, intercept and investigate complex criminal operations. Drug trafficking is not only a law enforcement issue; it is a national threat. It fuels violence, weakens communities and harms our children.

“We will pursue those responsible wherever they operate, both locally and across borders, and hold them accountable. Law enforcement is working as a united front to strengthen our response. Those who traffic drugs into this country will be identified, tracked and brought to book,” Nkosi said.

SARS and law enforcement partners will continue to strengthen controls at all ports of entry. These recent seizures form part of a broader effort to dismantle organised criminal networks, protect legitimate trade and safeguard South African communities. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Rule of law must guide fight against illegal immigration, says Cachalia

Source: Government of South Africa

Rule of law must guide fight against illegal immigration, says Cachalia

Acting Police Minister, Professor Firoz Cachalia, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to tackling illegal immigration, while warning that vigilantism and violence against foreign nationals have no place in South Africa.

Delivering his department’s Budget Vote speech in Parliament on Tuesday, Cachalia said government agrees that illegal immigration is unacceptable and that stronger measures are needed to improve border security and enforce immigration laws.

“Our country’s sovereignty and the rule of law are not negotiable. But I must make myself absolutely clear: we condemn any violent protest action targeting people from other countries,” he said.

Cachalia warned that attacks on foreign nationals damage South Africa’s standing in the region and globally, undermining efforts to attract investment and grow the economy.

“[It] limits foreign investment and undermines our chances to grow our economy and create jobs. It also could harm the cooperation we need with our regional neighbours to address organised criminal networks that bring drugs into our country and that traffic people across our borders,” he said.

He stressed that only the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Border Management Authority (BMA) are authorised to arrest people for immigration offences.

“You cannot build a country that effectively implements the rule of law by breaking those laws,” Cachalia said, adding that police will continue to act against both illegal immigration and those who resort to violence during protests.

The Minister noted that police officers are already under immense pressure as they confront crime under often difficult and dangerous conditions.

Bringing back accountability

Turning to the recent suspension of senior SAPS officials, Cachalia said accountability remains a key pillar of the Police Reset Agenda.

“The most recent suspensions announced by the Acting National Commissioner on Tuesday are pursuant [to the] terms of an internal SAPS investigation. The Acting National Commissioner and I are fully aligned in pursuing consequence management,” he said.

READ | SAPS suspends additional five senior police officers

At the same time, Cachalia praised the vast majority of police officers, who continue to serve communities with dedication and professionalism.

“Your contribution is highly appreciated, and I stand with you,” he said, while also paying tribute to officers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty.

Cachalia described attacks on police officers as unacceptable, citing the deaths of Captain Louis Nel and Sergeant Mandla Khuzwayo of Crime Intelligence in KwaZulu-Natal. The officers were attacked by armed men while on duty in Verulam. Captain Nel died at the scene, while Sergeant Khuzwayo succumbed to his injuries 25 days later.

On the police budget, Cachalia said the allocation is about more than funding.

“It is about whether a child in Lusikisiki can walk to school safely, whether a woman in Thohoyandou can return home from work without fear, and whether a business in eThekwini or Ekurhuleni can invest and create jobs with the confidence that the State will protect its people,” he said.

As the largest institution in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, SAPS has been allocated R127.072 billion for the 2026/27 financial year, increasing to R135.8 billion by 2028/29. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Bill proposes foreign worker quotas, tougher employer penalties

Source: Government of South Africa

Bill proposes foreign worker quotas, tougher employer penalties

The Employment Services Amendment Bill has been introduced to Parliament, proposing significant changes to South Africa’s labour market framework, including new measures to regulate the employment of foreign nationals and strengthen enforcement mechanisms.

The Bill aims to amend the Employment Services Act of 2014 by updating and clarifying several definitions within the legislation, while extending its application to include foreign nationals, workers, and private employment agencies that do not operate for profit.

A key feature of the proposed legislation is the introduction of a more comprehensive framework governing the employment of foreign nationals in South Africa.

The Bill seeks to align labour migration policies with the objectives of the Employment Services Act, as well as existing provisions contained in the Immigration Act and the Refugees Act.

It introduces substantially tougher penalties for employers who fail to comply with the new rules governing the employment of foreign nationals.

Before recruiting a foreign worker, employers will be required to satisfy themselves, in a manner prescribed by regulation, that there are no suitably qualified South African citizens, permanent residents, refugees or asylum seekers available to fill the position.

Employers who breach these requirements could face escalating fines imposed by the Labour Court, ranging from up to R100 000 for a first offence, R200 000 for a repeat offence within three years, and up to R1 million or 10% of annual turnover for employers found guilty of multiple contraventions.

The proposed measures are aimed at ensuring that foreign recruitment takes place only where genuine skills shortages exist, while strengthening deterrents against the unlawful employment of foreign nationals.

Under the proposed amendments, the Minister of Employment and Labour will be granted additional powers to develop regulations relating to labour migration and the employment of foreign workers.

The Bill also proposes expanding the responsibilities of the Employment Services Board to strengthen oversight and policy implementation.

The legislation further provides for the establishment and governance of Supported Employment Enterprises, which are intended to create and support employment opportunities for designated groups of workers.

Authorities are expected to receive stronger powers to investigate and act against non-compliant employers and employment agencies.

The proposed amendments also make provision for exemptions from certain requirements of the Act and empower the Minister to issue further regulations where necessary.

Government says the changes are intended to improve labour market governance, promote fair employment practices, and ensure that the employment of foreign nationals is managed in a manner that supports South Africa’s economic and social objectives.

The Bill is currently before Parliament and will undergo the legislative process, including committee scrutiny and opportunities for public participation, before any amendments can be enacted into law.

This comes after government has announced plans to intensify action against employers who hire undocumented foreign nationals, with President Cyril Ramaphosa warning that businesses found flouting immigration and labour laws will face tougher penalties and stricter enforcement.

President Ramaphosa said illegal immigration continues to undermine efforts to create decent jobs, protect labour standards and expand employment opportunities for South Africans.

Addressing the nation on Sunday, the President said some employers deliberately hire undocumented migrants because their vulnerable legal status makes it difficult for them to challenge unfair treatment in the workplace.

Investigations have uncovered workplaces where undocumented foreign nationals are subjected to poor working conditions, low wages and excessive working hours without proper compensation.

He warned that employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers are not only breaking the law but are also undermining fair competition and weakening labour protections for all workers.

As part of government’s Comprehensive Approach for Migration Management, authorities will step up inspections at companies suspected of employing undocumented foreign nationals.

The inspections will involve joint operations by the South African Police Service, the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Employment and Labour.

In a move aimed at strengthening enforcement capacity, the Department of Employment and Labour has begun the phased recruitment of 10 000 labour inspectors during the current financial year.

President Ramaphosa said authorities can no longer allow employers found guilty of exploiting undocumented workers to simply pay fines and continue operating without consequence.

The latest measures signal government’s intention to tighten oversight of labour migration while tackling worker exploitation and promoting compliance with South Africa’s employment and immigration legislation.

The Bill can be accessed at https://www.labour.gov.za/DocumentCenter/Bills/Employment%20Services%20Amendment%20Bill.pdf. – SAnews.gov.za

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Condolences for His Majesty King Makhosonke II

Source: Government of South Africa

Condolences for His Majesty King Makhosonke II

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his condolences following the passing of His Majesty King Makhosonke II of the AmaNdebele nation.

“It is with deep sadness that I mourn the passing away today, Tuesday, 9 June 2026, of His Majesty King Makhosonke II – Enock Makhosonke Mabhena – reigning King of the AmaNdebele nation,” the President in a statement on Tuesday.

His Majesty, the traditional leader of the AmaNdebele akwaManala, passed away at the age of 65 after 40 years on the throne.

“My thoughts and prayers – and I know those of the nation – go out today to the Royal Household, Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali, AmaNdebele and the Basotho nation from whom Her Majesty is descended.

“We will in due course pay tribute to the King as a pillar of national unity in diversity and as a champion of development, with education and land restitution as part of his vision,” said the President.

He added that the nation stands alongside AmaNdebele in this moment of grief.

“We offer our deep condolences to the Royal Household once more,” said President Ramaphosa. –SAnews.gov.za

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SAPS Gauteng Commissioner to visit scene of deadly Cleveland incident 

Source: Government of South Africa

SAPS Gauteng Commissioner to visit scene of deadly Cleveland incident 

Gauteng South African Police Service (SAPS) Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, will today visit the scene of a crime where 12 people were killed in Cleveland.

The provincial Commissioner’s visit on Wednesday follows the deadly shooting, which also left several others injured at Jumpers informal settlement in Cleveland on Tuesday evening, 9 June 2026.

“It is reported that at approximately 11:10pm, SAPS members responded to a complaint of a shooting in progress at the informal settlement. Upon arrival, police found numerous victims, who had sustained gunshot wounds. Emergency Medical Services were immediately summoned to the scene to assist the injured,” said the police on Wednesday.

Preliminary investigations reveal that eight adult males and three adult females were declared dead at the scene, while one additional male victim later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. At least nine other victims were transported to various medical facilities for treatment of gunshot wounds.

It is alleged that more than 10 suspects were dropped off by a white Toyota Quantum near a petrol station in Cleveland. 

The suspects allegedly entered the informal settlement through both entrances and moved through the area, opening fire on residents and community members at multiple locations before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle.

Provincial and district detectives, supported by crime intelligence and forensic experts, have been mobilised to investigate the incident and track down the suspects.

“The motive for the attack is currently unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made at this stage,” said police.

Meanwhile, SAPS is calling on anyone with information that may assist with the investigation to contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application. –SAnews.gov.za

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