Category: MIL-OSI

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Breaking: Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Mandisa Maya, other Leaders Named African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year 2025

Source: APO

African Leadership Magazine (ALM) (www.AfricanLeadershipMagazine.Co.UK) is excited to announce the winners of the African Persons of the Year (POTY) 2025 Awards, concluding a rigorous three-stage process that included continent-wide public nominations, a comprehensive editorial review, and a highly competitive global online poll that closed on 30 November 2025. This year’s exercise recorded exceptional engagement from Africans across the world, underscoring widespread public interest in celebrating leadership excellence across governance, business, philanthropy, innovation, and public service.

The ALM Persons of the Year Awards is Africa’s premier public-choice recognition, celebrating leaders whose vision, courage, and innovative actions in 2025 are shaping the continent’s development trajectory. Among the distinguished honourees, H.E. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia, and H.E. Mandisa Maya, Chief Justice of South Africa, emerged as recipients of African Political Leader of the Year and African Female Leader of the Year, respectively. The 2025 winners collectively embody a pan-African community of trailblazers whose work spans sectors and geographies but aligned a shared commitment to advancing sustainable development, strengthening institutional resilience, and driving inclusive economic growth on the continent.

In his statement, Dr. Ken Giami, Publisher of African Leadership Magazine, highlighted that “As Africans, we must champion our own stories and recognise those shaping the continent’s future. This year’s awardees exemplify leadership that strengthens institutions, drives innovation, safeguards peace, and unlocks opportunity — showing what is possible when Africans lead with vision, courage, and purpose.”

The winners and runners-up will be formally presented with the awards trophy and instruments of honour during the flagship annual African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year awards ceremony, scheduled for 27–28 February 2026 in Accra, Ghana. The highlights of the event would include the POTY awards presentation, high-level plenary, business investment showcases, states and countries’ investment opportunities showcases, roundtable discussions, and multi-networking sessions, as well as an unveiling of the African Leadership Magazine special POTY edition.

The African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year (POTY) Ceremony is Africa’s premier annual celebration of visionary leadership and excellence, convened by African Leadership Magazine (ALM). Now in its 15th year, the event brings together heads of state, policymakers, corporate leaders, and development partners to recognise individuals and institutions driving people-centred, transformative leadership across the continent. The 2026 edition promises to be bigger than previous editions as it projects to host over 400 delegates and reach a global digital audience of more than one million through live streaming and media partnerships, spotlighting transformative governance, peacebuilding, economic cooperation, and sustainable development.

The 2025 AFRICAN LEADERSHIP MAGAZINE PERSONS OF THE YEAR — FULL LIST OF WINNERS

African Political Leader of the Year

  • Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia — Winner
  • Patrice Talon, President of Benin — 1st Runner-up

African Female Leader of the Year

  • Mandisa Maya, Chief Justice of South Africa — Winner
  • Esperança da Costa, Vice President of Angola — 1st Runner-up

African Educationist of the Year

  • Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor, Makerere University — Winner
  • Farah Sheikh Abdulkadir, Minister of Education, Somalia — 1st Runner-up

Africa Peace & Security Leader of the Year

  • Mbaye Cissé, Chief of the General Staff, Armed Forces of Senegal — Winner
  • Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson, AU Commission, Djibouti — 1st Runner-up

African Industrialist of the Year

  • Samuel Dossou-Aworet, Founder & Chairman, Petrolin Group, Benin — Winner
  • Phuthuma Nhleko, Chairman, Phembani Group, South Africa — 1st Runner-up

African Philanthropist of the Year

  • Mr. Samuel Tafesse, Founder, Sunshine Investment Group, Ethiopia — Winner
  • Mensa Otabil, Founder, International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Ghana— Runner-up

Young African Leader of the Year

  • Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, Nigeria — Winner
  • Darshan Chandaria, Group CEO, Chandaria Group, Kenya — 1st Runner-up

African Public Sector Leader of the Year

  • Debele Kabeta, Commissioner, Ethiopian Customs Commission — Winner
  • Charles Anosike, DG/CEO, Nigeria Meteorological Agency — 1st Runner-up

African Public Health Champion of the Year

  • Esperance Luvindao, Minister of Health, Namibia — Winner
  • Mekdes Daba Feyssa, Minister of Health, Ethiopia — Runner-up

African Agricultural Development Leader of the Year

  • Girma Amente, Minister of Agriculture, Ethiopia — Winner
  • Bruno Linyiru, DG, Agriculture & Food Authority, Kenya — 1st Runner-up

African Government Minister of the Year

  • Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, Minister of Finance, Sierra Leone — Winner
  • Lee Maiyani Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary, Kenya — 1st Runner-up

African Lawmaker of the Year

  • Austelino Tavares Correia, President, National Assembly, Cape Verde — Winner
  • Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Nigeria — 1st Runner-up

Special African Philanthropist Icon Award

  • Rali Mampeule, Founder/CEO, South African Housing & Infrastructure Fund — Winner

Young African Philanthropist of the Year

  • Wicknell Chivayo, CEO, Intratrek, Zimbabwe — Winner

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Leadership Magazine.

For media and other enquiries, contact:
Ehis Ayere
Group General Manager
African Leadership Magazine UK
ehis@africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk
+44 203 051 1883

About African Leadership Magazine:
The African Leadership Magazine, published by the African Leadership Organisation (UK), focuses on presenting the best of Africa to a global audience, telling the African story from an African perspective while developing solutions to the continent’s current challenges. We have committed the last 19 years to promoting impactful leadership on the continent and promoting African opportunities globally through an ecosystem of quality Afro-positive content, Africa trade facilitation and market entry solutions, Afro-centric communities and business networking platforms, as well as through public sector training and consulting.

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Volunteer recruitment begins for Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

Source: APO

As excitement continues to build ahead of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) (https://apo-opa.co/4p76mwQ), the Organising Committee has opened applications for its volunteer programme, inviting people from Senegal and beyond to contribute to the delivery of the first Olympic sporting event to be held in Africa.

KEY FACTS

  • Dakar 2026 launches its volunteer programme, “Jambaar26” open from 1 December 2025 until 31 January 2026, aiming to recruit over 6,000 volunteers.
  • The name “Jambaar26” comes from the Wolof word “jambaar,” meaning “hero,” a tribute to the volunteers’ essential role.
  • Jambaar26 is open to all interested people; volunteers will support operations such as event logistics, transport, accreditation, ceremonies, media services and spectator support.
  • From 1 to 7 December 2025, a national volunteer-mobilisation tour will visit Senegal’s 14 regions to promote the programme and facilitate registration.

Opening on 1 December 2025, the programme, known as Jambaar26, will recruit more than 6,000 volunteers to support a wide range of operations across the Games. Open to anyone wishing to be part of this global sporting event, the programme offers participants the opportunity to develop new skills, gain experience behind the scenes and help welcome athletes and visitors from around the world. Registration will run exclusively on https://apo-opa.co/44ovkjd until 31 January 2026.

A PROGRAMME OPEN TO ALL

Taking its name from the Wolof word “jambaar” – meaning “hero” and often used in Senegal to recognise exemplary individuals – Jambaar26 highlights the important role that the volunteers will play in supporting the YOG. While the programme is expected to attract significant interest from Senegalese youth, Jambaar26 is open to anyone who wishes to contribute to the success of Dakar 2026 and gain first-hand experience of a major international sporting event.

Volunteers will support day-to-day operations across both competition and non-competition venues, contributing to functional areas such as sports events, ceremonies, transport, accreditation, media services and spectator experience.

To be considered for the programme, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a basic command of French and English. Selected volunteers will be required to participate in the training sessions provided by the Organising Committee and be available for at least 10 days during the Games.

A NATIONAL TOUR TO INSPIRE AND MOBILISE COMMUNITIES

To encourage nationwide engagement, the Dakar 2026 Organising Committee (YOGOC) will organise a National Volunteer Tour from 1 to 7 December 2025, travelling across all 14 regions of Senegal to meet potential volunteers and share information about the programme.

The tour will begin on 1 December in Thiès, before three caravans set out across the country. Stops will include Fatick, Kédougou and Diourbel (2 December); Kaolack and Louga (3 December); Kolda (4 December); Kaffrine and Sédhiou (5 December); Saint-Louis (6 December); and Matam, Tambacounda and Ziguinchor (7 December). A final event will take place in Dakar on 14 December.

Throughout the tour, YOGOC teams will provide details on roles, requirements, benefits and the registration process; meet with local authorities and associations; and showcase the core values of volunteering, such as teamwork, inclusion and solidarity. The initiative aims to foster national enthusiasm for Dakar 2026 and build a diverse, motivated volunteer community representing every region of the country.

The Dakar 2026 YOG will take place from 31 October to 13 November 2026, bringing together 2,700 of the world’s best young athletes aged up to 17. The Games will be held across three host sites in Senegal: Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Olympic Committee (IOC).

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Le recrutement des volontaires pour les Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse de Dakar 2026 commence

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Alors que l’enthousiasme gagne du terrain à l’approche des Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse (JOJ) de Dakar 2026 (https://apo-opa.co/48HNfnj), le comité d’organisation a lancé le processus de candidature pour son programme des volontaires, invitant les Sénégalais et le reste du monde à participer à l’organisation du premier événement sportif olympique à se tenir en Afrique.

FAITS MAJEURS

  • Dakar 2026 lance son programme des volontaires, Jambaar26. Le processus de candidature débute le 1er décembre 2025 pour s’achever le 31 janvier 2026. L’objectif est de recruter plus de 6 000 volontaires.
  • L’appellation “Jambaar26” vient du terme wolof – héros – un hommage au rôle déterminant joué par les volontaires.
  • Jambaar26 est ouvert à tous ; les volontaires apporteront notamment leur aide dans la logistique, le transport, l’accréditation, les cérémonies, les services médias et le soutien aux spectateurs.
  • Du 1er au 7 décembre 2025, une tournée nationale parcourra les 14 régions du Sénégal pour mobiliser les volontaires, promouvoir le programme et encourager les inscriptions.

À partir du 1er décembre 2025, le programme, baptisé Jambaar26, recrutera plus de 6 000 volontaires qui seront affectés en renfort à de multiples tâches pendant les Jeux. Ouvert à toutes celles et ceux qui souhaitent participer à cet événement sportif mondial, le programme offre aux participants la possibilité d’acquérir de nouvelles compétences, de découvrir les coulisses des JOJ et d’accueillir les athlètes et les visiteurs du monde entier. Les inscriptions se feront uniquement sur la plateforme https://apo-opa.co/44ovkjd jusqu’au 31 janvier 2026.

UN PROGRAMME OUVERT A TOUTES ET TOUS

Tirant son appellation du terme wolof “jambaar” – héros – souvent utilisé au Sénégal pour désigner des personnes exemplaires, Jambaar26 met en avant le rôle important que joueront les volontaires à l’occasion des JOJ. Le programme, qui devrait susciter un vif intérêt auprès de la jeunesse sénégalaise, est néanmoins ouvert à toute personne désireuse de contribuer au succès de Dakar 2026 et d’acquérir une expérience pratique d’un événement sportif international majeur.

Les volontaires prendront part aux opérations quotidiennes sur les sites de compétition et autres, en travaillant dans les secteurs fonctionnels suivants notamment : épreuves sportives, cérémonies, transport, accréditation, services médiatiques et expérience des spectateurs.

Pour que leur demande soit prise en compte, les candidates et les candidats doivent être âgés de 18 ans révolus et posséder des connaissances de base en français et en anglais. Les volontaires retenus devront participer aux séances de formation proposées par le comité d’organisation et être disponibles pendant dix jours au moins lors des Jeux.

UNE TOURNEE NATIONALE POUR INSPIRER ET MOBILISER LES COMMUNAUTES

Pour encourager la mobilisation au niveau national, le comité d’organisation des Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse (COJOJ) de Dakar 2026 organisera du 1er au 7 décembre 2025 une tournée nationale qui parcourra les 14 régions du Sénégal afin de rencontrer toutes celles et ceux qui souhaitent rejoindre les rangs des volontaires pour leur présenter le programme.

La tournée débutera le 1er décembre à Thiès, avant de sillonner le pays en empruntant trois itinéraires. Elle s’arrêtera à Fatick, Kédougou et Diourbel (2 décembre) ; Kaolack et Louga (3 décembre) ; Kolda (4 décembre) ; Kaffrine et Sédhiou (5 décembre) ; Saint-Louis (6 décembre) ; et Matam, Tambacounda et Ziguinchor (7 décembre). Dernière étape : Dakar le 14 décembre.

Tout au long de la tournée, les équipes du COJOJ fourniront des informations détaillées sur les postes à pourvoir, les conditions requises, les avantages d’être volontaire et le processus d’inscription. Elles rencontreront également les autorités et les associations locales et mettront en avant les valeurs qui sont au cœur du volontariat : le travail d’équipe, l’inclusion et la solidarité. Cette initiative entend susciter l’enthousiasme pour Dakar 2026 dans tout le pays et donner naissance à une communauté de volontaires plurielle et motivée, représentant toutes les régions du Sénégal.

Pour rappel, les JOJ de Dakar 2026 se tiendront du 31 octobre au 13 novembre 2026 et réuniront 2 700 des meilleurs jeunes athlètes du monde âgés de 17 ans au maximum. Ils se dérouleront sur trois sites hôtes au Sénégal : Dakar, Diamniadio et Saly.

Distribué par APO Group pour International Olympic Committee (IOC).

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Africa Finance Corporation Raises Record US$524m in Dual-Currency Samurai Loan Facility

Source: APO – Report:

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has closed a landmark US$524 million equivalent dual-currency Samurai term loan facility.

The transaction marks AFC’s largest Samurai loan to date and reinforces the Corporation’s growing footprint in Japan’s capital markets amid rising investor confidence in its credit fundamentals. The three-year syndicated facility, comprising US$505 million and JPY 3 billion, was significantly oversubscribed following strong demand from Japanese lenders.

AFC’s strong traction in Japan has been supported by a series of milestones, including its 2019 debut samurai loan, its 2023 guarantee of the Arab Republic of Egypt’s JPY75 billion Samurai Bond, and the award of an A+ (Stable) long-term issuer credit rating by the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) earlier this year. AFC’s 2022 Samurai facility of US$419 million equivalent (US$412 million and JPY 1 billion) matured in October 2025 and was fully repaid by AFC.

AFC maintains a strong presence in Asian capital markets, where it has raised over US$1.3 billion in the past decade across Chinese, Indian and Korean loan facilities.

 “Japan continues to be an important and strategic market for AFC,” said Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member and Head of Financial Services at AFC. “The strong support from Japanese lenders in our latest Samurai loan underscores the depth of confidence in AFC and the trust we have built with investors over the past few years. This successful transaction strengthens our funding base and expands our global investor reach as we continue mobilising capital to address the infrastructure deficit in Africa.”

The new facility was arranged by long-standing relationship banks, Mizuho Bank, MUFG Bank and SMBC Bank International, which acted as Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners. The transaction drew strong momentum from AFC’s lender roadshow held during the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in August.

In a further demonstration of deepening engagement with Japanese and Asian investors, the facility welcomed several first-time  lenders to AFC, including Bank of Taiwan, China Construction Bank Corporation, First Commercial Bank, Taiwan Business Bank, The Chiba Bank, The Shizuoka Bank, and The Yamanashi Chuo Bank.

Proceeds from the facility will be used for general corporate purposes, supporting AFC’s mandate to drive sustainable development through infrastructure investment across Africa.

– on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).

Media Enquiries:
Yewande Thorpe
Communications
Africa Finance Corporation
Mobile: +234 1 279 9654
Email: Yewande.thorpe@africafc.org

About AFC:
Africa Finance Corporation was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 47 member countries and has invested over US$17 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

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Africa Data Centres and CSSi South Africa partner to bring expanded data storage capabilities to South African enterprises

Source: APO – Report:

Africa Data Centres (www.AfricaDataCentres.com), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader of African heritage, has entered into a strategic partnership with CSSi SA, a leading Cloud and VM Provider and distributor of data storage, servers, and data centre equipment.

Under the agreement, CSSi SA have structured an alliance to deploy racks and provide data sovereignty for South African customers, with up to three tiers of redundancy between three different data centre footprints. Located at Africa Data Centres’ facilities in Cape Town (CPT1) and Johannesburg (JHB1), and connected with 100GB links to CipherVault™ in Midrand. The availability of these racks will meet the growing local demand for redundant, reliable and next-generation data storage and colocation services.

“CSSi SA’s expansion into our South African facilities underscores the critical need for secure, high-performance data storage solutions in an era of rapid digital transformation. As businesses across South Africa and the broader African market accelerate their digital strategies, the demand for scalable, compliant, and resilient infrastructure has never been higher,” said Adil El Youssefi, Chief Executive Officer of Africa Data Centres. “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to addressing these challenges, ensuring that enterprises have the reliability and security required to manage growing data volumes while navigating an increasingly complex regulatory environment.”

CSSi SA’s  data centre – CipherVault™ in Midrand, Johannesburg, will connect to Africa Data Centres’ JHB1 facility. This integration will provide its clients with seamless connectivity and redundant solutions, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring business continuity.

“The ability to leverage scalability, partner with the best Data Centre provider today in South Africa, and using economies of scale which allow us to reduce the cost of data centre operations for our customers was always the key reason for this partnership. Today being one of the largest disgtributors in Africa of Storage, SSD and Hard Drives, coupled with Server supply, allows our customers to save significant costs by being a single entity to offer tin to service, backed by 99.9% plus uptime guarantees. With over 15 years of operational experience from our own Data Cnetre, it made sense to partner with the best Africa can offer, and we honoured to have a partner such as ADC” said James Grcic, CEO of CSSi SA “Today this means, clients have more flexibility, can scale on demand, and SMB’s and resellers can migrate into Data Centres’ with costs as much as 65-70% less then what they could of envisaged, with access to world-class infrastructure, as we move into offering AI and GPU solutions as another first in SA

Through this partnership, CSSi SA strengthens its ability to deliver high-performance, scalable solutions and significantly reduces the barriers to entry for both small and corporate clients in this market. “We see this partnership as unique, due to the growing demand for new hardware technology, with an insatiable demand for Data Sovereignty, uptime guarantees, and being able to offer world-class data centre facilities with the lowest latency, nationwide network and providing it right here in SA for South Africa,” concluded Adil.

– on behalf of Africa Data Centres.

About Africa Data Centres:
Africa Data Centres owns and operates Africa’s largest network of interconnected, carrier and cloud-neutral data centre facilities. Bringing international experts to the pan-African market, Africa Data Centres is a trusted partner for rapid and secure data centre services and interconnections across Africa. Strategically located in South, East and West Africa, our world-class data centre facilities provide a home for all business-critical data for Africa’s small, medium and large enterprises and global hyper-scale customers. https://www.AfricaDataCentres.com/

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Jagersfontein Tailings Dam owner ignored structural instability warning sings

Source: Government of South Africa

The technical investigation into the failure of the Jagersfontein Fine Tailings Storage Facility (FTSF), has found that the owner of the tailings dam, Jagersfontein Development (Pty) Ltd, may have been aware of structural instability along the southern wall.

Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Sello Seitlholo officially released the long-awaited findings, which was presented to residents of Jagersfontein on Friday, 28 November 2025, more than three years after the catastrophic collapse on 11 September 2022, resulted in the tragic loss of life, leaving scores of people homeless as well as pollution of the environment and water resources.

The delegation, which included Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae and Kopanong Local Municipality Mayor Xolani Tseletsele, met community members at the Mayibuye Community Hall, where they relayed the findings of the report to the community.

Instability known since 2019

The technical investigation, conducted by experts from the University of Pretoria (UP) and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), found that the owner of the tailings dam, Jagersfontein Development (Pty) Ltd, may have been aware of structural instability along the southern wall as early as 2019.

According to the report, the company attempted to stabilise the slope by adding large volumes of material to stabilise the slope, which was not effective, but continued to raise the dam wall and deposit more tailings into the dam.

The report further indicates that the construction/raising of the tailing’s storage facility was based on conceptual designs and that no detailed designs were done to enable the safe construction of the facility. In addition, there was no construction supervision by a registered engineering professional.

The investigation also revealed that when the dam breached on the southern wall of the tailings dam, one compartment collapsed, leading to containment of approximately 5.9 million cubic meters (mᵌ) of fine tailings being released downstream and causing flooding and destruction of infrastructure and property, including power lines. 

Two people were confirmed dead, and one person remains missing, and is presumed dead.

Design and construction failures

In addition to warnings of instability, the report identified critical engineering and regulatory failures. Among the most serious findings:

•    The facility was constructed and raised based on conceptual designs only, with no detailed engineering designs to support safe construction.

•    No registered engineering professional supervised the construction, raising concerns about compliance with industry standards.

•    Part of the southern wall was built on a pre-existing tailings dump of low structural strength, resulting in a weak foundation that contributed significantly to the collapse.

Addressing the community, Deputy Minister Mahlobo said he would have preferred to see the mine closed down in light of its non-compliance with government directives.

However, government will also have to consider the livelihood of residents who reside in the area as the mine provides job opportunities to some of the residents.

“It is a fine balancing act, saving jobs and saving lives,” Mahlobo said.

A full copy of the report can be accessed on the Department of Water and Sanitation’s website www.dws.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Mchunu to testify before Madlanga Commission

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System has confirmed that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who is currently on a leave of absence, will appear before the Commission on Tuesday at 14h00.

In a statement on Monday, Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels said the Minister’s appearance will take place at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College, where strict accreditation and access control measures remain in place for members of the public.

“Any person wishing to access the public gallery of the auditorium is required to present positive identification for purposes of accreditation,” Michaels said.

Mchunu has been called to respond to testimony delivered by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who alleged that Mchunu engaged in political interference in policing operations.

In his earlier evidence, General Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of:

  • Pressuring police leadership to halt or redirect investigations involving politically sensitive individuals in KwaZulu-Natal.
  • Attempting to influence senior appointments within the SAPS provincial command structure to favour certain political factions.
  • Intervening in procurement and operational decisions, allegedly to benefit individuals aligned with political interests.

General Mkhwanazi told the Commission that these actions undermined the independence of law-enforcement structures and contributed to a climate where investigations involving politically connected suspects stalled or were deprioritised.

Mchunu has previously denied any wrongdoing, insisting that his engagements with police structures have always been lawful, procedural, and aimed at strengthening policing capabilities. His testimony today is expected to address each of Mkhwanazi’s claims directly and provide the Commission with his version of events.

The Commission is tasked with investigating allegations of criminality, political influence, and corruption across South Africa’s criminal justice system. Mchunu’s testimony forms part of a broader effort to scrutinise how political dynamics may have shaped policing decisions over the past decade. – SAnews.gov.za

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Oribi toll plaza user discount comes to an end

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced that the temporary 100% Frequent User Rebate at the Oribi Toll Plaza will come to an end today at midnight.

The rebate was introduced on 08 May 2025 to provide financial relief to local commuters diverted onto the N2 South Coast Toll Road due to the temporary closure of the uMzimkhulu River Bridge on the R102 for repairs undertaken by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport. 

In September, a further three-month extension was granted to align with the bridge construction schedule. While work on the bridge is still underway, significant progress has been made. 

As a result, the 100% rebate will be cancelled at 23h59 on 02 December 2025, with motorists reverting to the standard Frequent User Discount, as outlined in the Government Gazette No. 52073, Volume 716, published on 07 February 2025. 

“SANRAL extends its sincere appreciation to all motorists who registered for the Frequent User Discount during this period. Your cooperation and willingness to sign up ensured the smooth implementation of the rebate and helped ease the impact of the temporary diversion. 

“As traffic volumes are expected to increase during the upcoming festive period, SANRAL encourages road users to register for electronic toll tags or update their existing accounts,” KwaZulu-Natal provincial head Dudley Mbambo said.

Tagging vehicles in advance ensures quicker passage through toll plazas, accurate billing, and full access to available discounts. 

To make registration more accessible, Self-Service Terminals (SSTs) remain available at the following locations:
•    Oribi Toll Plaza (Port Shepstone)
•    Astron Service Station (Umtentweni)
•    Oribi Plaza Shopping Centre (Port Shepstone)
•    Juice Junction, opposite Pick n Pay Centre (Hibberdene)
–SAnews.gov.za

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Marriott International fait son entrée en République démocratique du Congo avec l’ouverture de deux hôtels à Kinshasa

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Marriott International (www.Marriott.com) vient de faire ses débuts en République démocratique du Congo avec l’ouverture du Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa et du Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa. Le lancement de ces deux établissements introduit des enseignes mondialement reconnues à Kinshasa pour offrir des expériences personnalisées aux voyageurs d’affaires et de loisirs dans l’une des capitales les plus dynamiques et stratégiques d’Afrique. 

Situé le long du fleuve Congo, Kinshasa est un hub dynamique pour la diplomatie, le commerce régional et les arts. Avec ses 17 millions d’habitants, la ville offre aux voyageurs une combinaison fascinante de culture, de commerce et de connectivité, de sa musique vivante à son offre gastronomique variée, en passant par ses marchés animés et à la proximité des merveilles naturelles de l’Afrique centrale.

« L’entrée en République démocratique du Congo est une étape importante pour Marriott International, et nous permet de continuer à développer notre présence en Afrique », déclare Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, vice-présidente, marques Premium, Select & Midscale, Europe, Moyen-Orient et Afrique, Marriott International. « Avec l’ouverture du Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa et du Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa, nous sommes ravis d’offrir aux voyageurs et aux membres de Marriott Bonvoy deux façons distinctes de vivre notre expérience de confiance en matière de service et de marque signature sur ce marché dynamique. »

Les deux hôtels sont gérés par la société de gestion tierce SARV Management LLC.

« Travailler avec Marriott International pour apporter une offre hôtelière de classe mondiale à la capitale soutient l’attrait croissant de la ville en tant que destination d’affaires et de loisirs, tout en contribuant à l’emploi local et au renforcement des compétences. Nous pensons que ces ouvertures joueront un rôle significatif dans la consolidation du secteur du tourisme et dans la mise en valeur du dynamisme et du potentiel de Kinshasa sur la scène mondiale », déclare Karim Minsariya, directeur de SAMAY Hospitality SARL, la société propriétaire des deux hôtels.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa

Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa (https://apo-opa.co/48evOe2) offre un séjour unique qui allie confort contemporain, caractère local authentique et service personnalisé. Idéalement situé dans un quartier chic près du fleuve Congo, l’hôtel est entouré de bureaux gouvernementaux, de sièges sociaux d’entreprises et de centres commerciaux haut de gamme, et se trouve à quelques minutes du centre-ville. Ses 88 chambres, dont beaucoup sont dotées de balcons et offrent une vue panoramique, sont conçues pour répondre aux besoins des voyageurs d’affaires, diplomatiques et de loisirs d’aujourd’hui, en offrant une pied-à-terre chaleureux pour explorer Kinshasa.

Le hall lumineux de l’atrium allie lumière naturelle, œuvres d’art locales et verdure, offrant un espace accueillant qui rend hommage à l’ancienne vie scolaire du bâtiment. Dans cet espace se trouve la piscine intérieure de l’hôtel, une première en son genre dans la ville, offrant une retraite emplie de sérénité après une journée bien remplie. Vous pourrez dîner au Marché 15, un restaurant ouvert toute la journée célébrant les saveurs internationales et locales, ou vous détendre au Lobby Bar, un espace décontracté idéal pour des réunions informelles et des boissons en soirée. Les équipements supplémentaires comprennent une salle de sport tout équipée et une salle de conférence de 56 mètres carrés conçue pour les réunions professionnelles et les événements entre proches.

Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa

Situé au cœur du quartier des affaires de Kinshasa, le Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa (https://apo-opa.co/4pBfJou) propose 134 chambres modernes. Que les voyageurs visitent Kinshasa pour le travail ou le plaisir, l’hôtel répond à leurs besoins avec son design accessible et son confort élégant.

Fidèle au style emblématique de la marque, l’hôtel propose aux voyageurs indépendants d’aujourd’hui le Four Comfort Bed, une connexion Wi-Fi haut débit et gratuite et un début de journée énergisant avec des diverses options de café frais et de petit-déjeuner. Après une journée productive, vous pourrez vous détendre autour d’un repas au Lufira, siroter un cocktail signature au 83 Sky Lounge Bar ou déguster une bière locale rafraîchissante dans le cadre du programme Best Brews™.

Vous profiterez également d’une salle de fitness ouverte 24h/24 et d’une piscine extérieure sur le toit offrant une vue panoramique sur la ville. Le Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa dispose également d’environ 230 mètres carrés d’espace de réunion répartis dans quatre salles, chacune équipée d’installations de conférence modernes et de technologies audiovisuelles avancées, ce qui en fait un lieu de choix pour les réunions professionnelles, les ateliers et les événements sociaux.

Le Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa et le Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa font tous les deux partie du Marriott Bonvoy®, le programme de voyage primé de Marriott International. Les membres peuvent gagner et échanger des points sur un portefeuille extraordinaire de marques mondiales, profiter d’expériences exclusives via Marriott Bonvoy Moments et débloquer des avantages tels que des nuits gratuites, l’enregistrement mobile et la reconnaissance du statut Elite.

Distribué par APO Group pour Marriott International, Inc..

Contact avec les médias : 
Birgit Deibele
directrice principale des communications – Afrique subsaharienne, Marriott International
Email : Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com

Protea Hotels by Marriott : 
Protea Hotels by Marriott® est la première enseigne hôtelière en Afrique et l’une des marques les plus reconnues sur le continent avec plus de 60 hôtels dans dix pays, à savoir l’Afrique du Sud, l’Angola, le Botswana, le Malawi, la Namibie, le Nigeria, l’Ouganda, la République démocratique du Congo, la Tanzanie et la Zambie. Protea Hotels by Marriott® est idéal pour les voyageurs d’affaires et de loisirs en offrant des établissements situés dans les principaux centres d’affaires et les destinations de loisirs les plus prisées. Chaque hôtel offre des installations modernes, un service proactif et amical et une variété d’équipements, tels que des restaurants à service complet, des espaces de réunion, une connexion Wi-Fi gratuite et des chambres soigneusement aménagées, garantissant des normes mondiales pour un séjour de haute qualité, détendu et couronné de succès.

À propos de Four Points by Sheraton® : 
Four Points by Sheraton est une enseigne mondiale avec plus de 365 hôtels dans plus de 45 pays et territoires. Chez Four Points, le voyage est réinventé et les classiques intemporels sont combinés à des touches modernes, avec un service authentique dans un environnement décontracté à travers le monde. Les hôtels Four Points se trouvent au cœur des centres urbains, près des plages, des aéroports ou en périphérie. Chaque hôtel offre un lieu familier pour se détendre, avec une approche authentique du caractère local, où les clients peuvent suivre leur sport favori et profiter du programme Best Brews®. Four Points est fier de participer au Marriott Bonvoy®, le programme de voyage mondial de Marriott International. Le programme offre aux membres un portefeuille extraordinaire de marques mondiales, des expériences exclusives sur Marriott Bonvoy Moments et des (https://apo-opa.co/3Ma51H3) avantages inégalés, notamment des nuits gratuites et la reconnaissance du statut Elite. Pour vous inscrire gratuitement ou pour plus d’informations sur le programme, visitez www.MarriottBonvoy.com. Pour de plus amples renseignements à propos de Four Points, rendez-vous en ligne https://Four-Points.Marriott.com/.

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets CENTCOM Commander

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha| December 02, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met on Tuesday with Commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Charles Bradford Cooper, who is currently visiting the country. 
The meeting discussed the close strategic relations between the State of Qatar and the United States and ways to support and strengthen them, particularly in the areas of military and defense cooperation, in addition to a number of topics of common interest.