Category: MIL-OSI

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SA has started welcoming G20 guests!

Source: Government of South Africa

By Sandile Nene

With the eyes of the world firmly focussed on South Africa, attention now turns to the historic first ever G20 Leaders’ Summit on African soil. On 22 and 23 November 2025, Nasrec in Johannesburg will welcome a number of world leaders and other dignitaries for this landmark gathering.

An event of this magnitude, with global implications will of course draw added scrutiny and some of this has focussed on our readiness to host the Summit. Those with a narrow lens have concentrated solely on the Summit, without realising that South Africa has already hosted 130 preparatory meetings, including ministerial gatherings and central bank governors’ meetings without incident.  Some of these meetings include the Y20 Summit which was hosted in Ekurhuleni from 18 to 22 August 2025. Ekurhuleni is also hosting the G20 Social Summit, from 18 to 20 November 2025.

As government we are confident that this event will proceed smoothly, as have all the others thus far. Every successful event has assisted in sharpening our security and logistics arrangements in preparation for the G20 Leaders’ Summit. These preparations are wide ranging and include a comprehensive safety plan, along with securing energy supply, the cleaning and preparation of public spaces, and the activation of a disaster management centre.

Speaking on preparations ahead of the Summit, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said that a 
comprehensive and resilient energy plan is now in place to secure uninterrupted power supply for the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit but also for the overall energy supply to residents and businesses in our province.

He added that: “The energy plan also includes multiple layers of security, high mast solar lighting, the protection of cables and the installation of emergency generators.”

The Summit’s safety and security is being comprehensively managed and coordinated through inter-agency cooperation. All relevant national and provincial government departments and agencies are involved in planning safety, security and emergency services.

As government, we are confident that all safety and security arrangements for the Summit are in place. We have implemented a number of preventative measures, including heightened security at points of entry, hotels and venues. Furthermore, robust contingency plans are in place to prevent and limit incidents should they occur.

As a nation we have a proud safety track record in hosting mega global events. Both the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Orange African Cup of Nations were hosted without major incidents.

Lessons learned from hosting previous events have been integrated into our safety and security plan. Plans are in place for any eventuality, including potential crowd incidents, such as marches, protests and pickets. We are confident that our security agencies have done comprehensive risk and threat assessments, and we are ready to host the G20 leaders and all participating delegations.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi reinforced the province’s preparedness: “Gauteng is well equipped to ensure a safe and secure environment for all participants and our residents. The South African Police Service [SAPS], in full coordination with all other law enforcement agencies, has robust plans in place that we have all adopted and accepted.”

He added: “Our multi-level law enforcement strategy will see delegates escorted by a unified force comprising of SAPS, National Traffic Police, Gauteng Provincial Traffic and all metropolitan police departments will be deployed to escort and support our visitors.”

All that now remains is for leaders of the G20 to arrive and to experience the magic that we call home.  Our country offers visitors a unique experience and this will play a massive part in driving home our call for “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”, which is the theme of the G20 in South Africa.  

We believe that Solidarity means countries working to help each other, especially in tough times like economic crises, natural disasters, or pandemics. It’s about teamwork: if one country struggles, the others step in to support, because the world is connected.

Equity is about making sure opportunities, benefits, and resources are shared fairly—not just between rich and poor countries, but also between men and women, and between different communities.

Sustainability means using resources—like water, energy, and land—in a smart way so we don’t harm the planet or run out of what future generations need.

South Africa’s track record, combined with the comprehensive security, energy, and logistical preparations leaves no doubt about our readiness to host this historic summit. As the world turns its gaze to Nasrec, we stand confident in our readiness to deliver a landmark event. 

*Sandile Nene – Acting Deputy Director-General for Content Processing and Dissemination in the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

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South Africa a country and economy ‘on the rise’ – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

In the weekly Presidential newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the green shoots in the economy as an indication that South Africa is a “country and an economy on the rise”.

The President cited the recent downturn in unemployment and strengthening in government finances as an indication that the country is moving towards a place of strength.

“Unemployment is down. Data from Statistics South Africa show that the official unemployment rate fell to 31.9% between July and September this year, down from 33.2% recorded in the previous quarter. Nearly 250 000 more people were in employment in the third quarter. Of these, around 130 000 were added in the construction sector.

“The Medium Term Budget Policy Statement delivered last week points to a sustained turnaround in government finances. We are on track to achieve a third consecutive primary budget surplus. This means that, excluding interest payments on our debt, we are collecting more in revenue than we are spending. This is a sign of prudent financial management, giving us space to steadily reduce our debt to sustainable levels,” he said.

Furthermore, the country’s sovereign credit rating was upgraded by S&P to ‘BB’ from ‘BB-’ and the local currency long-term sovereign credit rating to ‘BB+’ from ‘BB’.

“This is the first such upgrade from the agency in nearly two decades. An improved rating generally leads to lower borrowing costs, which allows for more funds to be invested in the economy and in meeting social needs.

“Among the factors S&P cited for the positive outlook were Eskom’s improved performance, strong tax collection and the broad structural reform momentum having picked up pace,” the President explained.

Operation Vulindlela

President Ramaphosa noted that Operation Vulindlela – government’s driving force behind reforms – was initially launched as a mechanism for the implementation of “transformative reforms and [to] boost economic growth”.

Initially, focus was on the network sectors, as well as immigration reform.

“We are seeing steady progress in the logistics sector, notably with respect to improved performance at our ports. Measures to allow private sector companies to operate on the national freight rail network are also at an advanced stage. 

“The most noteworthy improvements have been witnessed in the energy sector, with Eskom now on the road to recovery, massive investment in renewable energy generation, and vastly improved electricity supply. 

“In support of South Africa’s ratings upgrade, S&P cited the recently launched Phase II of Operation Vulindlela, which is focusing on changes in local government, digital transformation, visa regimes, spatial inequality and others,” he said.

The President noted that modelling from the University of Stellenbosch’s Bureau of Economic Research estimates that the potential impact of Operation Vulindlela’s full implementation could “lift South Africa’s long-term growth rate by as much as 3.5%”.

“In citing this modelling, the analyst JP Landman writes that ‘the reforms are a journey, but they have started working. Step by step, South Africa is opening its economy, modernising infrastructure and rebuilding credibility’.

“Despite considerable headwinds that have [included] a global pandemic, a debilitating energy crisis and more recently, a difficult global trade environment, we have stayed the course on economic recovery and are now seeing this pay off,” he said.

President Ramaphosa reflected on the country’s emergence from a “ruinous period of economic stagnation” and State capture.

He added that despite this, “we have been able to achieve sustained progress in a relatively short period of time”.

“This is in no small part owing to the strength of the partnerships forged between government, business, labour and civil society. 

“These far-reaching economic changes have a direct and material impact on the lives of every South African, on their ability to lead dignified lives, to access public services, to secure employment, and to provide for their families. 

“We are determined to sustain the momentum of this economic recovery, so that we can drive inclusive growth, create jobs and improve the lives of our citizens,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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7 500 petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) africaines vont être formées dans les domaines de Intelligence Artificielle (IA) et du commerce numérique grâce à un nouveau programme conjoint de Google et du Secrétariat de la zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Des milliers de petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) du Nigéria et sur l’ensemble du continent africain ont désormais accès à des ressources sur l’IA et le numérique pour développer leurs activités et les échanges commerciaux à l’échelle continentale. Google et le Secrétariat de la zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf) ont lancé un programme officiel d’entrepreneuriat et d’inclusion numérique, une nouvelle initiative de formation gratuite disponible sur le portail de la Google Hustle Academy.

Les petites entreprises génèrent près de 80 % des emplois en Afrique et représentent un pilier de l’économie du continent. Ce programme vise à combler le déficit de compétences numériques en fournissant aux entrepreneurs des solutions basées sur l’IA ainsi qu’une formation proposée en plusieurs langues pour répondre aux exigences concrètes du marché actuel. L’initiative s’appuiera sur le succès de la Google Hustle Academy, qui a accompagné plus de 18 000 PME africaines depuis 2022.

S.E. Wamkele Mene, Secrétaire général de la ZLECAf, a souligné l’importance de ce partenariat : “Le programme s’aligne sur l’objectif de transformation de la ZLECAf mis en avant dans nos protocoles sur le commerce numérique et sur les femmes et les jeunes dans le commerce. L’idée est de permettre aux MPME, aux femmes, aux jeunes, aux personnes en situation de handicap, aux agriculteurs ruraux et à d’autres acteurs de jouer un rôle prépondérant dans l’économie en bénéficiant des initiatives de la ZLECAf. Nous montrons ici notre volonté de favoriser l’inclusion numérique et de permettre aux MPME de développer les échanges commerciaux grâce à la  technologie sous l’égide de la ZLECAf.”

“La technologie est une arme puissante dans la lutte contre les inégalités. Ce partenariat vise à fournir à des milliers d’entrepreneurs africains les outils pratiques et les connaissances nécessaires pour générer de nouvelles opportunités”, a déclaré Charles Murito, directeur des affaires gouvernementales et de la politique publique pour l’Afrique subsaharienne chez Google. “En nous concentrant sur des domaines clés comme l’IA, le commerce électronique et le commerce transfrontalier, nous construisons un écosystème numérique plus connecté et plus prospère sur l’ensemble du continent. Cela témoigne de notre engagement continu envers la communauté vivante et dynamique des entreprises africaines.”

Un programme pour la croissance continentale

Ancrée dans la réalité économique, la formation comprend trois modules principaux, disponibles en anglais, en français, en arabe et en portugais afin de garantir une accessibilité pour tous les entrepreneurs d’Afrique.

  • Commerce numérique transfrontalier : créé en partenariat avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf, ce module transforme la politique en pratique. Les entrepreneurs apprendront à trouver de nouveaux marchés, à adapter leurs produits et à maîtriser la logistique des paiements et des livraisons à l’échelle internationale.
  • Le Cloud pour les petites entreprises : ce module se concentre sur les manières de stimuler l’efficacité et de réduire les coûts grâce aux outils cloud. Les participants recevront une formation pratique sur le travail en équipe dans Google Workspace et sur la sécurisation des activités dans Google Cloud.
  • L’IA pour la productivité : ce module fournit des compétences pratiques pour développer une entreprise à l’aide de l’IA. Les entrepreneurs apprendront à utiliser des outils comme Google Gemini pour automatiser leurs tâches, créer du contenu marketing et analyser des données clients.

UpSkill Universe, un organisme de formation reconnu dans le domaine des compétences numériques, sera chargé d’assurer le programme. “Les entrepreneurs africains sont déjà des acteurs du changement. Nous connaissons les problématiques auxquelles ils sont confrontés, comme l’essor de l’IA ou encore l’évolution des comportements des clients”, a déclaré Gori Yahaya, PDG d’UpSkill Universe. “Cette collaboration permettra aux entreprises d’accéder aux outils pratiques et aux technologies dont elles ont besoin pour grandir, se développer et prospérer.”

Éligibilité et informations concernant les candidatures

Les candidatures pour le programme sont désormais ouvertes. L’initiative s’adresse aux PME qui sont en activité depuis au moins six mois et qui sont basées dans certains états membres de la ZLECAf, y compris le Nigéria, le Kenya, l’Afrique du Sud, le Ghana, le Cameroun, le Sénégal, le Togo, la Côte d’Ivoire, le Rwanda, Maurice, l’Éthiopie, la Tanzanie, la Namibie, la Zambie, l’Angola, le Mozambique, l’Égypte, la Tunisie et le Maroc.
La formation doit commencer en novembre 2025 et se déroulera en 25 cohortes jusqu’en juin 2026.

Les PME intéressées peuvent trouver plus d’informations et envoyer leur candidature en accédant au lien suivant :
https://apo-opa.co/47MJNY8

Distribué par APO Group pour UpSkill Universe.

Contact médias :
Relations médias
press@upskilluniverse.com

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7500 Pequenas e Médias Empresas (PMEs) africanas vão receber formação em Inteligência Artificial (IA) e Comércio Digital através de um novo programa da Google e do Secretariado da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (AfCFTA)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Milhares de pequenas e médias empresas (PME) em toda a Nigéria e no continente africano já podem adquirir competências essenciais de IA e digitais para expandir os seus negócios e realizar trocas comerciais a nível continental. A Google e o Secretariado da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (AfCFTA) lançaram o “Programa de Inclusão Digital e Empreendedorismo AfCFTA”, uma nova iniciativa de formação gratuita dinamizada pela Google Hustle Academy.

As pequenas empresas são parte fundamental da economia africana, gerando quase 80% dos empregos em todo o continente. Este programa foi concebido para colmatar a lacuna de competências digitais, fornecendo aos empreendedores soluções baseadas em IA e formação localizada que responde às exigências reais do mercado atual. A iniciativa é baseada no sucesso da Google Hustle Academy, que já apoiou mais de 18000 PMEs em África desde 2022.

S.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretário-Geral do Secretariado da AfCFTA, comentou a importância da parceria: “o Programa alinha-se com o objetivo transformador da AfCFTA, particularmente delineado no Protocolo sobre Comércio Digital e no Protocolo sobre Mulheres e Jovens no Comércio, para posicionar as MPME, mulheres, jovens, pessoas com deficiência, agricultores rurais e mais como principais impulsionadores e beneficiários da AfCFTA. É a demonstração do nosso compromisso em fomentar a inclusão digital e capacitar as MPME para desenvolver atividades no âmbito da AfCFTA, recorrendo a tecnologias digitais.”

“A tecnologia é um fator equitativo importante, e esta parceria tem como objetivo disponibilizar a milhares de empreendedores africanos as ferramentas práticas e o conhecimento para desbloquear novas oportunidades,” disse Charles Murito, Diretor Regional de Assuntos Governamentais e Políticas Públicas da Google na África Subsariana. “Com o foco em áreas essenciais como IA, comércio eletrónico e comércio transfronteiriço, estamos a ajudar a construir um ecossistema digital mais associativo e próspero em todo o continente. Isto espelha o nosso compromisso contínuo com a comunidade empresarial vibrante e dinâmica de África.”

Um plano curricular para o crescimento continental

A formação centra-se na aprendizagem orientada para a ação através de três módulos principais, e será conduzida em inglês, francês, árabe e português para garantir o acesso aos empreendedores de toda a África.

  • Comércio digital transfronteiriço: Cocriado com o Secretariado da AfCFTA, este módulo passa a política à prática. Os empreendedores vão aprender a encontrar novos mercados, adaptar produtos e dominar a logística de pagamentos e expedição transfronteiriços.
  • Cloud para pequenas empresas: Este módulo centra-se na utilização de ferramentas na nuvem (cloud) para aumentar a eficiência e reduzir custos. Os participantes recebem formação prática com o Google Workspace para trabalho em equipa, e com o Google Cloud para operações seguras.
  • IA para produtividade: Este módulo fornece competências práticas para escalar um negócio recorrendo a IA. Os empreendedores vão aprender a usar ferramentas como o Google Gemini para automatizar tarefas, criar conteúdo de marketing e analisar dados de clientes.

A UpSkill Universe, uma entidade formadora líder em competências digitais, vai conduzir o programa. “Os empreendedores em África já estão a impulsionar a mudança. Reconhecemos os desafios que enfrentam, desde o advento da IA até às alterações no comportamento dos consumidores,” disse Gori Yahaya, CEO da UpSkill Universe. “Esta colaboração garante que podemos equipar as empresas com as ferramentas práticas e tecnologias de que necessitam para crescer, escalar e prosperar.”

Elegibilidade e detalhes da candidatura

As candidaturas para o programa já estão abertas. A iniciativa destina-se a PMEs que estejam em atividade há pelo menos seis meses e que estejam sediadas em estados-membros elegíveis da AfCFTA, incluindo: Nigéria, Quénia, África do Sul, Gana, Camarões, Senegal, Togo, Costa do Marfim, Ruanda, Maurícia, Etiópia, Tanzânia, Namíbia, Zâmbia, Angola, Moçambique, Egito, Tunísia e Marrocos.

O início da formação está agendado para novembro de 2025 e decorrerá em 25 grupos até junho de 2026.

As PMEs interessadas podem obter mais informações e candidatar-se através deste linK: https://apo-opa.co/47MJNY8

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UpSkill Universe.

Contacto para a imprensa:
Comunicação social
press@upskilluniverse.com

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Japão e Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento lançam Plataforma África-Ásia (A-A) para impulsionar o empreendedorismo e a inovação juvenil

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) anunciou na sexta-feira o lançamento de uma nova iniciativa, a Plataforma África-Ásia (A-A), dedicada à promoção da transferência de conhecimento entre África e Ásia. Esta plataforma garantirá um intercâmbio recíproco de tecnologia e inovação entre os dois continentes.

Baixar documento: https://apo-opa.co/4i1AgzQ

A cerimónia de lançamento foi realizada na Universidade das Nações Unidas, em Tóquio. O evento contou com a presença do Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, presidente do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, do Prof. Francis Petersen, vice-reitor e diretor da Universidade de Pretória, e do Dr. Teruo Fujii, presidente da Universidade de Tóquio. O Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento organizou o evento com o apoio das duas universidades.

A plataforma, que é apoiada pela Política e Subsídio para o Desenvolvimento de Recursos Humanos (PHRDG) – fundo fiduciário do Japão no Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento – compreende vários componentes-chave, incluindo o estabelecimento de uma parceria de conhecimento África-Ásia; o desenvolvimento de um diá. de conhecimento que apoie iniciativas nos setores público e privado em África e o reforço da capacidade de investigação individual e institucional através da promoção de redes e investigação interuniversitárias.

A cerimónia surge na sequência da nona Conferência Internacional de Tóquio sobre o Desenvolvimento Africano (TICAD9), realizada em Yokohama, Japão, em agosto de 2025, sob o tema ‘Criar em conjunto soluções inovadoras com África’, que está em consonância com a ênfase da plataforma na partilha de conhecimento.

Os diretores das instituições partilharam as suas reações.

O Dr. Ould Tah afirmou: “A Plataforma África-Ásia para Novas Iniciativas de Parceria Público-Privada, que estamos a lançar hoje, representa a próxima fronteira da nossa colaboração; o sucesso deste projeto-piloto servirá como prova crucial da viabilidade e do impacto da ligação entre África e a Ásia através de parcerias inovadoras”.

Depois, acrescentou: “Ao posicionar os nossos jovens como motores da inovação e do empreendedorismo, ancorados em parcerias público-privadas robustas, estamos a construir um mercado africano atraente para promover investimentos, criar empregos de qualidade, e abordar as causas profundas da migração insegura e da insegurança, ao mesmo tempo que promovemos um futuro seguro e próspero”.

O Prof. Peterson declarou: “As parcerias entre países asiáticos e africanos apresentam um modelo ideal em que os atores públicos e privados de ambos os continentes colaboram, criam em conjunto e impulsionam a inovação. Embora continuem a existir distâncias geográficas e institucionais significativas entre os atores asiáticos e africanos, as universidades estão estrategicamente posicionadas para colmatar essas lacunas. As universidades estão na melhor posição para desempenhar este papel através da sua capacidade de produção de conhecimento inter e transdisciplinar, das suas redes locais e globais e do seu papel como facilitadoras”.

O Dr. Teruo Fujii disse: “A Plataforma África-Ásia servirá de base para o intercâmbio de conhecimentos, ligando investigadores, decisores políticos e empreendedores. Promoverá novas parcerias empresariais, investigação conjunta sobre políticas públicas e oportunidades para estudantes e jovens profissionais aprenderem uns com os outros em todos os continentes”.

Esta nova iniciativa complementa os projetos de inovação existentes do Grupo Banco, tais como a Fase 2 da Universidade Pan-africana (https://apo-opa.co/4r4DdUu) e o projeto ENNOVA (https://apo-opa.co/4o5plXt), uma plataforma de inovação e empreendedorismo alimentada por Inteligência Artificial (IA) que proporciona às partes interessadas acesso a estudos de mercado, oportunidades de capacitação, recursos de conhecimento, oportunidades financeiras e ferramentas para prototipagem e incubação.

Por ocasião do lançamento desta plataforma, os líderes das organizações implementadoras (o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, a Universidade de Pretória e a Escola de Pós-Graduação em Políticas Públicas) concordam em cooperar entre as suas organizações, bem como com todas as outras partes interessadas, para alcançar os seus objetivos e contribuir para a promoção do desenvolvimento de competências, do empreendedorismo juvenil e da inovação, para o desenvolvimento sustentável de África.

Leia aqui a declaração conjunta (https://apo-opa.co/4i1AgzQ).

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

Contactos:
Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas
media@afdb.org

Dr. Keiko Takei
Analista-Chefe de Educação
K.TAKEI@AFDB.ORG

Escola de Pós-Graduação em Políticas Públicas da Universidade de Tóquio
Mihiro Fujimori
ppadmin.j@gs.mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Universidade de Pretória
Sr. Rikus Delport
Diretor
rikus.delport@up.ac.za

Sra. Thembi Tlale
Diretora Adjunta do Departamento de Desenvolvimento Institucional
thembi.tlale@up.ac.za

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

Mais informações em www.AfDB.org

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7,500 African Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to Receive Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Trade Skills Through New Google and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat Programme

Source: APO – Report:

Thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Nigeria and the African continent can now gain critical AI and digital skills to expand their businesses and trade continent-wide. Google and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat have launched the ‘AfCFTA Digital Inclusion & Entrepreneurship Programme,’ a new, free training initiative powered by the Google Hustle Academy.

Small businesses are the backbone of Africa’s economy, generating nearly 80% of jobs across the continent. This programme is designed to close the digital skills gap by providing entrepreneurs with AI-powered solutions and localized training that addresses the real-world demands of today’s market. The initiative will build on the success of the Google Hustle Academy, which has supported over 18,000 SMEs across Africa since 2022.

H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, commented on the partnership’s significance. “The Programme aligns with the transformative goal of the AfCFTA, particularly outlined in the Protocol on Digital Trade and the Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade, to position MSMEs, women, youth, persons with disabilities, rural farmers, and other stakeholders as key drivers and beneficiaries of the AfCFTA.  It  is the demonstration of our commitment to fostering digital inclusion and empowering MSMEs to trade under the AfCFTA using digital technologies.”

“Technology is a powerful equalizer, and this partnership is about providing thousands of African entrepreneurs with the practical tools and knowledge to unlock new opportunities,” said Charles Murito, Google’s Regional Director for Government Affairs and Public Policy in Sub-Saharan Africa. “By focusing on critical areas like AI, e-commerce, and cross-border trade, we’re helping to build a more connected and prosperous digital ecosystem across the continent. This is a testament to our ongoing commitment to Africa’s vibrant and dynamic business community.”

A Curriculum for Continental Growth

The training focuses on action-oriented learning through three core modules, and will be delivered in English, French, Arabic, and Portuguese to ensure accessibility for entrepreneurs across Africa.

  • Cross-Border Digital Trade: Co-created with the AfCFTA Secretariat, this module turns policy into practice. Entrepreneurs will learn to find new markets, adapt products, and master the logistics of cross-border payments and shipping.
  • Cloud for Small Businesses: This module focuses on using cloud tools to boost efficiency and cut costs. Participants get hands-on training with Google Workspace for teamwork and Google Cloud for secure operations.
  • AI for Productivity: This module provides practical skills to scale a business using AI. Entrepreneurs will learn to use tools like Google Gemini to automate tasks, create marketing content, and analyze customer data.

UpSkill Universe, a leading digital skills training provider, will manage the programme delivery. “Entrepreneurs across Africa are already driving change. We recognise the challenges they face, from the rise of AI to shifting customer behaviours,” said Gori Yahaya, CEO of UpSkill Universe. “This collaboration ensures we can equip businesses with the practical tools and technologies they need to grow, scale, and thrive.”

Eligibility and Application Details

Applications for the programme are now open. The initiative is designed for SMEs that have been in operation for at least six months and are based in selected AfCFTA member states, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, Rwanda, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Namibia, Zambia, Angola, Mozambique, Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco.

Training is scheduled to begin in November, 2025, and will run in 25 cohorts through June 2026.

Interested SMEs can find more information and apply by visiting: https://apo-opa.co/47MJNY8

– on behalf of UpSkill Universe.

Media Contact:
Media Relations
press@upskilluniverse.com

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Japan and African Development Bank roll out Africa-Asia (A-A) Platform to boost youth entrepreneurship and innovation

Source: APO – Report:

The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) on Friday announced the roll-out of a new initiative, the Africa-Asia (A-A) Platform, dedicated to the promotion of knowledge transfer between Africa and Asia. This platform will ensure a reciprocal exchange of technology and innovation between the two continents.

Download document: https://apo-opa.co/4i1AgzQ

A ceremony to mark the roll-out was held at the United Nations University in Tokyo. The event was attended by Dr Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank Group, Prof. Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria, and Dr. Teruo Fujii, President of the University of Tokyo. The African Development Bank hosted the event with the support of the two universities.

The platform, which is supported by the Policy and Human Resource Development Grant (PHRDG) – Japan’s trust fund within the African Development Bank – comprises several key components. They include the establishment of an Africa-Asia knowledge partnership; development of knowledge dialogue supporting initiatives in both private and public sectors in Africa, and strengthening of individual and institutional research capacity through the promotion of inter-university networking and research.

The ceremony follows as an outcome of the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) held in Yokohama, Japan in August 2025, under the theme ‘Co-create innovative solutions with Africa’, which aligns with the platform’s emphasis on knowledge sharing.

The principals of the institutions shared their reactions.

Dr Ould Tah: “The Africa-Asia Platform for New Public-Private Partnership Initiatives which we are launching today, represents the next frontier of our collaboration. The success of this pilot project will serve as crucial proof of the viability and impact of linking Africa and Asia through innovative partnerships.”

He added: “By positioning our youth as drivers of innovation and entrepreneurship, anchored by robust public-private partnerships, we are building an attractive African market, to promote investments, create quality jobs, address the root causes of unsafe migration and insecurity while fostering a secure and prosperous future.”

Prof Peterson: “Partnerships between Asian and African countries present an ideal model in which public and private actors on both continents collaborate, co-create and drive innovation. Whilst significant geographic and institutional distances remain between Asian and African actors, universities are strategically positioned to bridge these gaps. Universities are best positioned to play this role through their capacity for inter- and transdisciplinary knowledge production, local and global networks, and their role as convenors.”

Dr Teruo Fujii: “The Africa–Asia Platform will serve as a foundation for knowledge exchange—linking researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs. It will promote new business partnerships, joint research on public policy, and opportunities for students and young professionals to learn from one another across continents.”

This new initiative complements existing Bank Group innovation projects such as the Pan African University Phase 2 (https://apo-opa.co/4r4DdUu) and the ENNOVA project (https://apo-opa.co/4o5plXt), an AI-powered innovation and entrepreneurship platform that provides stakeholders with access to market studies, capacity-building opportunities, knowledge resources, financial opportunities and tools for prototyping and incubation.

On the occasion of the roll-out of this Platform, the leaders of the implementing organizations (the African Development Bank Group, the University of Pretoria and the Graduate School of Public Policy, The University of Tokyo), agree to cooperate among their organizations, as well as with all other stakeholders, to achieve its objectives and contribute to the promotion of skills development, youth entrepreneurship and innovation, for Africa’s sustainable development.

Read the joint statement here (https://apo-opa.co/4i1AgzQ).

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacts:
African Development Bank
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Communication and External Relations Department
Email: media@afdb.org

Dr Keiko Takei
Chief Education Analyst
Email: K.TAKEI@AFDB.ORG

Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Tokyo
Mihiro Fujimori 
Email: ppadmin.j@gs.mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

University of Pretoria
Mr Rikus Delport
Director
Email: ​rikus.delport@up.ac.za

Ms Thembi Tlale
Deputy Director of the Dept of Institutional Advancement
Email: thembi.tlale@up.ac.za

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states.

For more information: www.AfDB.org

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Cluttered desktops: The ‘I might need this someday’ mindset is creating a cybersecurity nightmare

Source: APO – Report:

Digital hoarding poses a significant and often underestimated cybersecurity risk that extends far beyond a simple productivity issue, argues Anna Collard, SVP of Content Strategy and CISO Advisor at KnowBe4 Africa (http://www.KnowBe4.com/).

Like a garage slowly filling with forgotten boxes, our digital workspaces are becoming repositories of unmanaged data. We are all familiar with cluttered desktops, full inboxes, and personal files saved on work devices. This is digital hoarding – the compulsive accumulation and retention of digital assets beyond their useful life or business need.

“It includes storing multiple versions of documents, keeping outdated software, maintaining unused accounts, and preserving obsolete databases,” explains Collard.

Unlike physical clutter, digital hoarding creates an invisible risk – people  may not even know what data they’re storing or where. “We may be storing personal files mixed with business data across multiple platforms and devices,” she comments.

“This could mean that abandoned projects with sensitive client information are still accessible, while legacy systems could be running alongside modern infrastructure, creating security gaps (https://apo-opa.co/4pkGo93).”

Email accounts containing years of correspondence, including confidential information, also pose a considerable security risk. “If left unchecked, cloud-storage accounts, shared drives, and personal devices could all be accumulating a treasure trove of uncategorised data,” she shares.

Why we hoard digital data

There are numerous reasons why people may hoard data. “There’s the ‘I might need this someday’ mentality that drives people to retain information, just in case,” says Collard. “There’s also a fear of making the wrong decision by deleting a critical file, so it’s easier to just keep everything.”

Some employees may have a sentimental attachment to their work, making it difficult for them to let go of old projects. In other cases, a lack of clear organisational policies on data retention leaves employees to make their own rules. “When there is no clear guidance, the default behaviour is often to save everything,” Collard notes.

The security implications of digital clutter

This accumulation of data creates a larger attack surface for cybercriminals. “Every account, and device is a potential entry point (https://apo-opa.co/3LJRu8S),” Collard warns. “Outdated software may contain unpatched vulnerabilities, and old documents with sensitive information can be a goldmine (https://apo-opa.co/4i7zcKX) for attackers.”

In the event of a data breach, digital hoarding makes it much harder to identify what has been compromised. The sheer volume of data can overwhelm security teams, and the presence of personal files on work devices can blur the lines between personal and corporate liability. Furthermore, retaining data for longer than legally required can lead to non-compliance with regulations such as the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

How to declutter your digital workspace

Collard believes that tackling digital hoarding requires a combination of clear policies, user-friendly technology, and a shift in organisational culture.

A crucial first step is to establish clear data retention policies that define how long different types of information should be kept. These policies should be automated where possible, with automated prompts that trigger data reviews and clean-up procedures. “Use data loss prevention tools to identify and classify sensitive information automatically,” she suggests, “and establish regular digital decluttering schedules as part of standard business processes.”

Organisations should also make deleting files easier than retaining them. “By providing simple, one-click archive and deletion tools, organisations can create secure disposal processes that employees trust,” she maintains. Implementing graduated storage costs can also make hoarding expensive, while AI-powered tools can suggest files for deletion based on age and access patterns. A practical guideline is the one-year rule – if you have not accessed a file in a year, archive or delete it. Clear folder structures with consistent naming conventions and regular reviews of shared access permissions are also essential.

Ultimately, decluttering effectively requires organisations to engage in cultural and behavioural change. “Recognise and reward employees who maintain clean digital workspaces,” she suggests, “and provide your employees with comprehensive security awareness training (https://apo-opa.co/4piGRIM) on the risks associated with digital hoarding.”

By creating peer accountability through team clean-up challenges, Collard believes that the battle against digital hoarding can be won. “Encourage your employees to share their success stories of improved efficiency through better data management,” she concludes. By treating digital hoarding not as a purely technical problem but as a human behaviour, organisations can move beyond simple storage management to build a more resilient and secure culture, which is crucial for effective management of human risk that exists in every organisation.

– on behalf of KnowBe4.

Contact details:
KnowBe4:
Anne Dolinschek
anned@knowbe4.com

Red Ribbon:
TJ Coenraad
tayla@redribboncommunications.co.za

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Safety warning amid Level 9 weather alert

Source: Government of South Africa

Citizens have been urged to remain cautious as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 9 weather warning.

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (GoGTA) on Monday said while emergency services remain on high alert, the public must follow these safety measures:

– Stay informed by monitoring local news and updates from the SAWS for the latest weather forecasts.

– Evacuate if necessary, following instructions from authorities, and seek higher ground if you are in flood-prone areas.

– Secure your property by clearing debris, securing loose items, and reinforcing doors and windows.

– Stay connected by keeping in touch with loved ones and neighbours, especially those who may be vulnerable.

– Exercise caution and avoid crossing low-lying bridges or flooded roads, as these actions are among the leading causes of flood-related fatalities.

CoGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa said following the outlined safety measures, although they seem simple, remains a powerful tool that saves lives and livelihoods, while preventing avoidable damage to property and infrastructure.

He said the department is implementing disaster response measures since the severe weather warning, which includes widespread flooding and heavy rainfall, especially in the North West, Gauteng and Mpumalanga provinces. 

Disaster Management Centres have been active in these affected areas, while other provinces remain on high alert. 

In addition, national departments, Provincial Disaster Management Centres, Municipal Disaster Management Centres, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and the South African Police Service (SAPS) continue to remain vigilant.

“Emergency services are prepared for potential flash floods, mudslides, power outages, and so on.

“Lives cannot be replaced; as such, every precaution we take, every plan we implement, and every act of preparedness must be guided by the principle of safeguarding human life above all else.

“Through our joint efforts, across government, business, civil society, NGOs [non-government organisations] and communities, we can reduce the risk of disasters, strengthen our resilience, and ensure a safer South Africa for all.

“Remember to prioritise your safety and follow official instructions. Stay safe,” CoGTA said in a statement. 

The National Disaster Management Centre will continue to fulfil its responsibilities by promoting an integrated and coordinated approach to disaster management across national, provincial and local government levels, as well as among statutory bodies and other stakeholders involved in disaster response. – SAnews.gov.za

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Bureaux encombrés : la mentalité du « j’en aurai peut-être besoin un jour » crée un cauchemar en matière de cybersécurité

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le stockage numérique excessif pose un risque de cybersécurité important et souvent sous-estimé, qui va bien au-delà d’un simple problème de productivité, affirme Anna Collard, vice-présidente principale de la stratégie de contenu et conseillère CISO chez KnowBe4 Africa (http://www.KnowBe4.com/).

À l’image d’un garage qui se remplit lentement de cartons oubliés, nos espaces de travail numériques deviennent des dépôts de données non gérées. Nous connaissons tous les bureaux encombrés, les boîtes de réception pleines et les fichiers personnels enregistrés sur les appareils professionnels. C’est ce qu’on appelle le stockage numérique excessif, c’est-à-dire l’accumulation et la conservation compulsives d’actifs numériques au-delà de leur durée de vie utile ou de leur besoin commercial.

« Cela inclut le stockage de plusieurs versions de documents, la conservation de logiciels obsolètes, la gestion de comptes inutilisés et la préservation de bases de données obsolètes », explique Collard.

Contrairement au désordre physique, le stockage numérique excessif crée un risque invisible : les gens peuvent même ne pas savoir quelles données ils stockent ni où. « Nous pouvons stocker des fichiers personnels mélangés à des données commerciales sur plusieurs plateformes et appareils », commente-t-elle.

« Cela pourrait signifier que des projets abandonnés contenant des informations sensibles sur les clients sont toujours accessibles, tandis que des systèmes hérités pourraient fonctionner aux côtés d’une infrastructure moderne, créant des lacunes de sécurité. »

Les comptes de messagerie contenant des années de correspondance, y compris des informations confidentielles, posent également un risque de sécurité considérable. « S’ils ne sont pas contrôlés, les comptes de stockage en nuage, les lecteurs partagés et les appareils personnels pourraient tous accumuler un trésor de données non classées », partage-t-elle.

Pourquoi nous accumulons des données numériques

Il existe de nombreuses raisons pour lesquelles les gens peuvent accumuler des données. « Il y a la mentalité du “j’en aurai peut-être besoin un jour” qui pousse les gens à conserver des informations, juste au cas où », dit Collard. « Il y a aussi la peur de prendre la mauvaise décision en supprimant un fichier critique, il est donc plus facile de tout garder. »

Certains employés peuvent avoir un attachement sentimental à leur travail, ce qui rend difficile pour eux de se séparer d’anciens projets. Dans d’autres cas, un manque de politiques organisationnelles claires en matière de conservation des données laisse les employés établir leurs propres règles. « Lorsqu’il n’y a pas de directives claires, le comportement par défaut est souvent de tout enregistrer », note Collard.

Les implications de la surcharge numérique en matière de sécurité

Cette accumulation de données crée une surface d’attaque plus grande pour les cybercriminels. « Chaque compte et chaque appareil est un point d’entrée potentiel », prévient Collard. « Les logiciels obsolètes peuvent contenir des vulnérabilités non corrigées, et les anciens documents contenant des informations sensibles peuvent être une mine d’or pour les attaquants. »

En cas de violation de données, le stockage numérique excessif rend beaucoup plus difficile l’identification de ce qui a été compromis. Le volume même des données peut submerger les équipes de sécurité, et la présence de fichiers personnels sur les appareils professionnels peut brouiller les lignes entre la responsabilité personnelle et la responsabilité de l’entreprise. En outre, la conservation des données plus longtemps que la loi ne l’exige peut entraîner le non-respect de réglementations telles que la loi sur la protection des informations personnelles (POPIA).

Comment désencombrer votre espace de travail numérique

Collard estime que la lutte contre le stockage numérique excessif nécessite une combinaison de politiques claires, de technologies conviviales et d’un changement de culture organisationnelle.

Une première étape cruciale consiste à établir des politiques claires de conservation des données qui définissent la durée de conservation des différents types d’informations. Ces politiques doivent être automatisées si possible, avec des invites automatisées qui déclenchent des examens de données et des procédures de nettoyage. « Utilisez des outils de prévention des pertes de données pour identifier et classer automatiquement les informations sensibles », suggère-t-elle, « et établissez des calendriers réguliers de désencombrement numérique dans le cadre des processus commerciaux standard. »

Les organisations devraient également faciliter la suppression des fichiers plutôt que leur conservation. « En fournissant des outils d’archivage et de suppression simples, en un clic, les organisations peuvent créer des processus d’élimination sécurisés auxquels les employés font confiance », soutient-elle. La mise en œuvre de coûts de stockage gradués peut également rendre le stockage excessif coûteux, tandis que les outils basés sur l’IA peuvent suggérer des fichiers à supprimer en fonction de l’âge et des modèles d’accès. Une directive pratique est la règle d’un an : si vous n’avez pas accédé à un fichier en un an, archivez-le ou supprimez-le. Des structures de dossiers claires avec des conventions de nommage cohérentes et des examens réguliers des autorisations d’accès partagé sont également essentielles.

En fin de compte, un désencombrement efficace exige que les organisations s’engagent dans un changement culturel et comportemental. « Reconnaissez et récompensez les employés qui maintiennent des espaces de travail numériques propres », suggère-t-elle, « et offrez à vos employés une formation complète de sensibilisation à la sécurité sur les risques associés au stockage numérique excessif. »

En créant une responsabilisation par les pairs grâce à des défis de nettoyage d’équipe, Collard estime que la bataille contre le stockage numérique excessif peut être gagnée. « Encouragez vos employés à partager leurs réussites en matière d’amélioration de l’efficacité grâce à une meilleure gestion des données », conclut-elle. En traitant le stockage numérique excessif non pas comme un problème purement technique, mais comme un comportement humain, les organisations peuvent aller au-delà de la simple gestion du stockage pour construire une culture plus résiliente et sécurisée, ce qui est crucial pour une gestion efficace du risque humain qui existe dans chaque organisation.

Distribué par APO Group pour KnowBe4.

Détails du contact:
KnowBe4 :
Anne Dolinschek
anned@knowbe4.com

Red Ribbon :
TJ Coenraad
tayla@redribboncommunications.co.za

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