Category: MIL-OSI

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Global One Health Day Celebration in Somali Region Ethiopia

Source: APO


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The 2025 Global One Health Day was celebrated in Jigjiga, Somali Region, Ethiopia under the theme “Strengthening One Health Collaboration for Resilient Communities.”

The event brought a wide range of partners into one forum, with over 100 participants, including high-level officials such as H.E. Mr. Ahmed Yasin Shek Ibrahim, delegate from the Somali Region President’s Office; H.E. Dr. Mesay Hailu, Director General of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI); and Mr. Mohammed Ayanle Hassan, Deputy Head of the Somali Region Health Bureau.

Participants represented a wide range of sectors, federal ministries, regional bureaus, academia, community representatives, UN agencies, donors, development partners, and civil society organizations.

In her remarks, Ms. Senait Tekeste, representing the World Health Organization (WHO) Ethiopia, forwarded three key calls to action: 

  1.  Strengthen multisectoral and interdisciplinary collaboration through sustained coordination, communication, and joint planning. She emphasized translating the national One Health Strategy into a regional action plan, and enhancing surveillance and analysis to improve capacity to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from health emergencies.
  2. Invest in education and capacity building by fostering interdisciplinary training and curriculum revision across human, animal, and environmental health fields. She highlighted the importance of information sharing to prevent zoonotic disease spread and ensure optimal outcomes for communities and ecosystems.
  3. Leverage advanced tools and technologies to integrate data from human and animal health sectors and support modelling of zoonotic diseases for early detection of emerging and re-emerging threats. 

In his keynote address, Dr. Mesay Hailu underscored the importance of partnership and coordination, stating:

“Health challenges such as zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and climate-related health risks cannot be addressed in isolation. Strengthening collaboration among sectors — human, animal, and environmental health — is essential to build resilient communities and protect our collective health security.”

Echoing this call, H.E. Mr. Ahmed Yasin Shek Ibrahim reaffirmed the Somali Region’s commitment to advancing the One Health agenda:

“Today’s celebration is a reminder to renew our collective commitment to work together — across sectors and disciplines — to safeguard the health of our people, our animals, and our environment. The regional government stands ready to strengthen collaboration and translate the One Health approach into concrete action.”

The program featured keynote statements from government officials, donors, UN agencies, academia, and development partners, as well as progress reports from national and regional One Health platforms. Both federal and regional leaders reaffirmed their commitment to institutionalizing the One Health approach in the Somali Region. The event was co-sponsored by the WHO, with financial support from the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO).

Following the formal session, participants took part in interactive workshop presentations that showcased best practices and innovative approaches to implementing One Health at regional and community levels. The event also featured a gallery walk exhibition, where partners and local institutions displayed successful initiatives and collaborative models demonstrating the power of the One Health approach in action.

The celebration concluded with a panel discussion on operationalizing One Health in Ethiopia, complemented by technical presentations and open dialogue among experts from human, animal, and environmental health sectors.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Ethiopia.

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Explore more cities in one trip with the Emirates Asia Pass

Source: APO

Emirates (https://www.Emirates.com) has announced the introduction of the Emirates Asia Pass, providing travellers in the specific African Emirates markets with enhanced access to Southeast Asia.

The pass is available to customers in South Africa, Kenya, Senegal, Uganda, Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Congo, Tanzania, and Egypt, offering a streamlined and flexible option for multi-city travel within the region.

With the Emirates Asia Pass, customers can book and customise itineraries across Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore and Laos, all under one ticket. Whether travellers are looking to experience tranquil island retreats, rich cultural landmarks or vibrant cities, the Emirates Asia Pass allows them to seamlessly connect between destinations and explore the region their way. 

The Emirates Asia Pass offers travellers the freedom to create bespoke journeys, combining their desired destinations, and even revisiting the same city more than once. Travellers can select from one to ten flights within Southeast Asia, making it easy to tailor itineraries to match their travel style and schedule. For the complete list of destinations included in the pass, please visit https://www.Emirates.com. 

The pass is available to travellers booking an international Emirates flight arriving in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam or Laos, either directly through Emirates or via their preferred travel agent. The new travel solution eliminates the need for multiple tickets on different airlines and allows customers to manage all flights conveniently on a single platform. 

From the tranquil beaches of Koh Samui to the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the Emirates Asia Pass invites travellers to plan simply and extend their trip effortlessly. 

Popular gateways such as Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur serve as ideal starting points for exploration, with seamless onward connections operated in partnership with Bangkok Airways and Batik Air Malaysia. In addition, Emirates-operated services connect travellers between Thailand and Vietnam, as well as Thailand and Cambodia, further expanding travel options across the region. 

Travellers in the specific African Emirates markets may purchase the Emirates Asia Pass together with their Emirates international ticket through https://www.Emirates.com, Emirates Contact Centres, retail and ticketing offices, or travel agencies.

For added flexibility, customers can make changes to their flights after purchase with a nominal fee of USD 15 per change on flights included in their pass. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.

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The United Nations (UN) chief condemns Guinea-Bissau coup, urges restoration of constitutional order

Source: APO


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UN Secretary-General António Guterres is “deeply concerned by the unfolding events,” his spokesperson said in a statement late on Thursday.

“He strongly condemns the coup d’état perpetrated by elements of the military and any attempt to violate constitutional order.”

He stressed that disregarding “the will of the people who peacefully cast their vote during the 23 November general elections constitutes an unacceptable violation of democratic principles.”

Restore constitutional order

The Secretary-General called for the “immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order,” as well as the release of all detained officials, including electoral authorities, opposition leaders and other political actors.

He urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint, uphold the rule of law and resolve disputes through “peaceful and inclusive dialogue and legal avenues.”

According to media reports, soldiers toppled the civilian leadership in a swift power grab before official election results could be announced and installed Major-General Horta Inta-a as transitional president.

The ousted president, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, later arrived in Senegal, the reports added.

The coup marks the latest military takeover in West and Central Africa, underscoring persistent regional instability.

Regional reactions

The Secretary-General also reaffirmed the United Nations’ full support for the efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union and the West African Elders Forum to safeguard democracy, promote stability and assist Guinea-Bissau in concluding the electoral process peacefully and returning swiftly to its democratic path.

The African Union also issued a sharp condemnation, with its Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, reiterating the AU’s “zero tolerance” for unconstitutional changes of government. He called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained officials and stressed that only the National Electoral Commission has the legal authority to proclaim election results.

ECOWAS likewise condemned the military takeover and announced on Thursday that it has suspended Guinea-Bissau from all its decision-making bodies following an emergency summit of regional leaders.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Message on the occasion of the Independence Day of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania

Source: APO


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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, extends his warmest congratulations to the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania on the occasion of the anniversary of their independence.

This momentous day serves as an opportunity to honour the courage and sacrifices of the Mauritanian people in their historic struggle for freedom and sovereignty, and to celebrate the nation’s remarkable achievements since independence. Mauritania continues to play a vital role in advancing African solidarity, peacekeeping, and regional integration — in full alignment with the ideals of Pan-Africanism and the vision of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

The African Union commends Mauritania’s steadfast commitment to the principles of unity, democracy, and sustainable development, as well as its active contributions to regional stability and continental initiatives. The celebration of Mauritania’s Independence Day is not only a proud national milestone but also a reaffirmation of Africa’s collective aspiration for peace, prosperity, and shared progress.

May Mauritania continue to stand as a beacon of resilience, unity, and hope — inspiring the continent as we work together toward a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa.

Happy Independence Day!

For media inquiries, please contact:
Mr. Nuur Mohamud Sheekh I Spokesperson of the Chairperson I African Union Commission I Email: SheekhN@AfricanUnion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

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Newly trained officers to help ensure a safer festive season

Source: Government of South Africa

Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili of the South African Police Service on Friday assured South Africans that with an additional 3 558 newly trained police officers on the ground,  SAPS will be working hard to ensure everyone is safe during the festive season.

“We have indeed entered a period of heightened police operations to ensure that people are and feel safe this festive season,” she said.

Acting Police Minister, Prof Firoz Cachalia, last Friday welcomed the newly-qualified police constables who have completed their training at various SAPS academies in the country.

The SAPS has been actively deploying new constables to enhance crime-fighting capabilities and improve public safety. Some of the new constables were deployed at the Nasrec Expo Centre where the G20 Leaders’ Summit took place last weekend.

“It’s all hands on deck as the men and women in blue – working closely with other law enforcement agencies – continue to stamp the authority of the state in every corner of our country,” Mosikili said.

She was speaking at the release of Quarter 1 and 2 crime statistics in Pretoria this morning, which she painted a picture of a relentless fight to keep people safe.

“We are not where we want to be in terms of the numbers. We would surely like to see a further reduction of cases reported and detected as well as a lot more green graphs indicating a downward trend.

“Let’s all agree, that we are going somewhere, and we are feeling the difference through our weekly integrated multidisciplinary operations commonly known as Operation Shanela,” Mosikili said.

She said it was encouraging to note that between the first and second quarter which is the period covering 1 April up until 31 September 2025, 413 583 suspects were arrested.

“During the same period, 3 442 firearms were seized during the operations. As we are all aware, alcohol remains one of the driving factors behind a lot of contact crimes. It is worth noting that police closed and shut down 11 975 unlicensed liquor premises.”

Mosikili said throughout the country, in every province, criminals were feeling the full might of the law and that they did not have anywhere to hide.

“From the Western Cape to KwaZulu Natal and where we are today in Gauteng, police remain resolute and there is no turning back.

“In the Western Cape, where we have ongoing gang violence, 722 gangsters were arrested with 1565 illegal firearms and more than 39 000 rounds of ammunition seized during the operations.

“In KwaZulu-Natal, five accused persons behind the Umlazi Glebelands hostel mass shooting in June 2023 where eight people died were each handed down eight life sentences and an additional 15 years in jail to each of the five accused,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Ending organised crime must be a national priority

Source: Government of South Africa

Acting Police Minister, Prof Firoz Cachalia, says tackling organised crime and its associated corruption, must be a national priority.

“We need focused, specialist capability based on closer collaboration between the police, prosecutors, financial regulators, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the private sector,” Cachalia said.

He was speaking at the release of the crime statistics for quarter 1 and 2 for 2025/26 in Pretoria, earlier today.

Cachalia said the money stolen through corruption must be traced and criminals must be hit where it hurts – in their pockets.

“We need fast, effective prosecutions and strong witness protection to turn investigations into convictions,” he said.

Cachalia said combatting gang violence required effective, no compromise policing, effective investigation and prosecution. “We must ensure that the gang lords pay for the harm they do to our society and the future of our country.”

The Minister said he empathised with ordinary citizens, saying he knows what it feels like to be mugged in the street; to be raided in one’s home and that his heart goes out to those whose lives have been shattered when a loved one is killed, injured, or traumatised as a result of violent crime.

“We all want and need protection for our families and dignity for our communities. We need better law enforcement and government institutions that work effectively. We must continue to work hard and together to improve the wellbeing of our people. Hold your elected leaders, the Minister of Police, and the police service to account.

“We must invest in initiatives to ensure that our children are well fed, and our youth have opportunities so that we can prevent crime,” the Minister said. 

He said organised crime was a direct threat to the safety of people, to the growth of the economy, the prosperity of the country and a threat to the national security.

“Criminal networks fuel violence, entrench corruption and weaken institutions. Organised crime undermines investment and prevents job creation. The scourge of drugs devastates communities and the future prospects of our young people.

“Extortion, kidnappings, vehicle hijackings, gang violence, and cash-in-transit heists have an immediate, terrifying effect on victims and small businesses. Criminal networks infiltrate political parties, government departments and procurement systems to steal public funds,” he said.

The Minister said criminals wear fancy suits and designer clothes pretending they are legitimate business people. 

“This is why the Madlanga Commission and Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee of Inquiry are so important for the future of our criminal justice in South Africa.

“They are currently looking into allegations of criminal individuals and networks influencing elected political leaders, along with the top ranks of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and their networks,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Qatar strongly condemns the Israeli attacks in the countryside of Damascus

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 28, 2025

The State of Qatar strongly condemns, in the harshest terms, the incursion carried out by Israeli occupation forces today in the countryside of Damascus, accompanied by shelling that resulted in the loss of several civilian lives. This act is considered a blatant violation of Syria’s sovereignty and a flagrant breach of international law and humanitarian law.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirms that the continuation of such dangerous Israeli practices exacerbates tensions and undermines efforts to establish security and stability in the region.

The Ministry calls upon the international community to take immediate action to halt these violations, protect civilians, and hold those responsible accountable in accordance with international law.

The Ministry reiterates the State of Qatar’s full solidarity with the sisterly Syrian Arab Republic—its government and its people—and its support for all efforts aimed at ending the attacks and ensuring Syria’s security and stability, as well as the unity and integrity of its territories.

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Burundi : Le Chef de l’État et Président du Conseil des Sages se joint aux Bagumyabanga dans la prière œcuménique mensuelle à Gitega

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Chef de l’État et Président du Conseil des Sages du parti CNDD-FDD, accompagné de son Épouse et du Secrétaire Général du parti, s’est joint ce jeudi 27 novembre 2025 aux Bagumyabanga de Gitega lors de la prière œcuménique mensuelle organisée dans les enceintes de l’École paramédicale de Gitega.

Placée sous le thème : « Que Dieu donne à chaque Burundais le cœur de prendre soin des héros encore en vie et des familles de ceux qui sont tombés sur le champ d’honneur », cette prière a été l’occasion pour le Président de la République d’appeler les Bagumyabanga à faire preuve d’héroïsme et de bravoure dans tous les secteurs de la vie nationale dont ils ont la charge, afin de contribuer activement au développement du pays et au bien-être de la population.

« Nous sommes en route vers une victoire décisive, car nous n’avons pas encore atteint l’objectif que nous nous sommes fixé : assurer le bien-être de chaque Burundais dans un pays pleinement développé », a déclaré le Président Ndayishimiye.

Il a exhorté chaque Mugumyabanga à se dévouer pour les autres, à rester reconnaissant des acquis déjà obtenus et à s’engager à en réaliser davantage. Il les a également encouragés à soutenir les héros de la lutte pour la paix et la démocratie encore en vie, ainsi que les familles des disparus.

Dans son enseignement, inspiré des Saintes Écritures tirées de 2 Samuel 9:6-9, le curé de la Paroisse Saint-François d’Assise de Magarama, Abbé Herménégilde Birushe, a invité les Burundais à travailler pour l’intérêt supérieur de la nation, à s’aimer, à aimer leur patrie, à s’entraider et à toujours soutenir ceux qui se sont sacrifiés pour offrir de meilleures conditions de vie au peuple burundais.

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République du Burundi.

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WomenIN Festival 2025 Culminates in Two Days of Holistic, Transformative and Unapologetic Empowerment

Source: APO

The WomenIN Festival 2025 (http://WeAreWomenIN.com/) wrapped up a powerful two-day celebration at Newlands Cricket Ground on 13–14 November, bringing together hundreds of women from across South Africa for an immersive programme focused on empowerment, leadership development, wellbeing, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, creativity and social impact.

Guided by the theme “Limitless: No Labels. No Limits. No Apologies,” the festival created space for meaningful conversations, real connections and practical tools designed to support women across every dimension of their lives.

The curated programme included panel discussions, interactive dialogues, wellness conversations, entrepreneurship sessions, financial literacy masterclasses and storytelling-focused engagements. Each segment was designed to explore identity, leadership, resilience, innovation and holistic wellbeing.

Leigh-Anne Williams, acclaimed Radio & TV Presenter, guided the programme as MC. Her vibrant personality, dynamic delivery and warm connection with the audience created an atmosphere of energy and unity, anchoring the festival’s flow across the two days.

With the event taking place during South Africa’s national Entrepreneurship Month, the festival placed a strong emphasis on business and economic empowerment. Women were equipped with practical tools for starting and scaling businesses, understanding financial behaviour and navigating the realities of entrepreneurship.

Empowerment partner FNB led key sessions on financial literacy and business growth. Reflecting on the festival’s impact, Nicole Sykes, the Head of Women in Business, FNB shared: “WomenIN brings together courage, collaboration and practical tools in a way that genuinely empowers women. The women who attended left with financial knowledge, business skills, emotional resilience and personal safety strategies that will continue to uplift them long after these two days.”

Raksha Naidoo, Chair of Women in Mining South Africa and CEO of the Particle Group, offered an important perspective on women transforming one of the country’s most male-dominated industries. Her insights centred on structural change, decisive leadership and expanding real influence for women across the sector.

Thando Hopa, Cultural Leader for the African Albinism Network, lawyer, activist, fashion model and UN Ambassador for Diversity and Inclusion, delivered a profound session exploring representation, identity and the power of narrative — highlighting how culture, policy and media shape society’s understanding of women.

Joni Peddie, Vice President of the Global Speakers Federation and behavioural strategist, shared insights on emotional agility, resilience and intentional leadership. Her contribution reminded women of the importance of leading from self-awareness and authenticity.

The women in sport conversation featuring Babalwa Latsha highlighted the rise of women’s rugby and the resilience of female athletes breaking new ground. She spoke about investment gaps, visibility, cultural perceptions and the importance of creating pathways that allow young women to see sport as a viable, respected career.

In the Wellness Resolution session, Dr. Kate Klaasen and Dr. Simone Silver explored burnout as a growing concern for women, emphasising an integrated approach to wellbeing across physical, emotional, social and spiritual spheres.

The festival also featured a powerful gender-based violence session titled Breaking the Silence, Rebuilding Lives. Moderated by GBV Advocate & COO – Women For Change (https://apo-opa.co/44ok8ms), Merlize Jogiat, the discussion brought together MOSAIC and Women For Change to address the silence that often surrounds the trauma of GBV in South Africa. The session amplified survivor voices, called for systemic change and shared practical tools for healing, safety and support — offering clear pathways toward empowerment and justice.

Marketplace: A Celebration of Women-Owned Brands

The marketplace added a vibrant dimension to the festival, showcasing a wide range of women-owned brands across beauty, wellness, fashion, jewellery, food, homeware and lifestyle essentials. It created a lively space where entrepreneurs shared their stories and connected with customers. The marketplace reinforced WomenIN’s commitment to uplifting women economically and supporting small businesses.

The festival concluded with a personal safety session led by Fight Back SA, offering practical awareness tools that supported the festival’s broader mission to empower women mentally, emotionally, economically and physically.

Festival Founder Nazlee Fredericks-Maharaj, Founding Portfolio Director of WomenIN Festival stated: “This year reminded us of the power that unfolds when women gather with purpose and without apology. When women refuse to be boxed and boldly own their space — holistically and phenomenally — systems shift. WomenIN 2025 brought that vision to life in the most powerful and authentic way. We are already shaping something extraordinary for WomenIN 2026. For those who missed it this year — this wasn’t just a festival, it was a revolution. In 2026, it’s coming back louder, bolder and more unapologetic than ever.”

The event concluded with the prestigious 2025 Good Hope FM Warrior Women Awards, recognising women whose leadership and impact continue to shape industries, communities and national narratives.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

For press & media enquiries or interviews please contact: 
Tishala Communications
Elize Engle
pr1@tishalacommunications.com
063 574 5249

About WomenIN (WiN):
WomenIN (WiN) is a dynamic women’s empowerment portfolio within the VUKA Group, dedicated to inspiring, supporting, and uplifting women from all walks of life. WiN creates platforms for connection, collaboration, and capacity-building across sectors including mining, mobility, energy, gaming, green economy, customer experience, and more. Through in-person events, masterclasses, wellness activations, and networking initiatives, WiN fosters leadership, amplifies voices, and drives lasting impact.

For more information, visit www.WeAreWomenIN.com

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group brings people and organisations together to connect through platforms that drive growth and transformation across Africa’s industries. With over 20 years of experience on the continent, VUKA delivers sector-leading platforms across Energy, Mining, Mobility, Retail, and Women Empowerment.

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Vaal Dam gates remain fully open as levels rise

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced that it will maintain the current status of keeping all 10 sluice gates open at the Vaal Dam. 

At Bloemhof Dam, an increase in release of 1 200 cubic meters per second (m³/s) has been activated through the radial gates, starting at 10 am, this morning.

According to the department, the Vaal Dam’s current level is at 106.80%, with an inflow of 1 327.52 m³/s and an outflow of 1 359 m³/s. 

Meanwhile, the Bloemhof Dam’s level is at 97.76%, with an outflow of 1 002 m³/s, which will rise to 2 202 m³/s after the increased release.

The department said it continues to implement its flood management operations within the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS).

“DWS remains on high alert and will continue to conduct real-time monitoring of inflows at both Vaal and Bloemhof Dams as the country experiences sustained rainfall this week, necessitating continuous monitoring and proactive intervention. Further updates will be issued as conditions change.

“As the releases continue, from the Vaal and Bloemhof Dams, downstream areas may experience overflowing riverbanks, which could affect infrastructure located in low-lying zones of the floodplain,” the statement read.

The department urgently urges communities along the Vaal River, especially those in riparian settlements, to stay vigilant and closely monitor rising river levels.

Farmers and residents with pumps, movable equipment, or infrastructure located near the water’s edge should take immediate action to secure their assets.

In addition, livestock and valuable property should be relocated to higher ground.

“The opening of sluice gates is a standard operating procedure and a critical dam safety measure implemented when water levels rise sharply. Controlled releases help prevent overtopping, safeguard the structural integrity of dam infrastructure and protect communities downstream from potential disaster.” – SAnews.gov.za