Rape within marriage is still silenced in South Africa – why women are being failed

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Nyasha Karimakwenda, Associate Research Scientist, Wellesley College

Sexual violence in marriages is a very real issue in South Africa, but remains shrouded in silence and denial. It’s a subject that Nyasha Karimakwenda has researched for many years in various forms, from traditional practices to court judgments. We asked her to outline the issues.


What is marital rape and why should we pay more attention to it?

Though marriage rates in southern Africa have decreased over the past decades, marriage is still considered to be an ideal social tool for formalising relationships and building families.

But it’s also an environment where spouses can be exposed to different kinds of abuse. This includes sexual abuse by their partners.

Marital rape is the term commonly used to refer to sexual violence by a partner in a marriage or former marriage. It’s a significant problem globally and is mostly committed by husbands against wives.

It’s critical that we learn more about marital rape because it’s a feature of many women’s lives. And it’s not uncommon for it to happen alongside other kinds of violence in marriages. These can include emotional, verbal, economic and physical harms.

Why is there so much silence around marital rape?

Many cultures and legal systems around the world have supported the position that sexual violence committed by husbands against wives is not morally wrong. Or that it’s an issue that should remain within the family.

Historically, for example, Commonwealth countries inherited the marital rape exemption from England. This established that husbands could not be held criminally liable for raping their wives. Some African countries – such as Kenya, Uganda and Nigeria – still retain versions of this exemption and marital rape is not a criminal offence there.

Added to this are existing patriarchal cultural norms across the continent that reinforce the idea that husbands are entitled to sex with their wives, whether the wife says no or not.


Read more: It’s still legal to rape your wife in India. That could be about to change


It’s only in recent decades that countries around the world started to change their criminal laws to allow for rape in marriage to be prosecuted. But there is still a lot of progress needed to make sure that both laws and cultures fully recognise the existence and harm of marital rape.

In South Africa marital rape was made a crime in 1993. Even so, as my doctoral research shows, marital rape continues to be silenced because of social and cultural perspectives.


Read more: Rape is still rape even if you’re married – report finds some South African men don’t believe it is


I learned that among some communities the belief that marriage gives husbands unlimited sexual access to their wives remains strong. Under this thinking, husbands cannot rape their wives, because they have ownership of their wives’ bodies.

My research, along with the work of other scholars, also captures how women are socialised to accept that their bodies are no longer their own once they marry. So they suffer the sexual abuse in silence.

What is ukuthwala and what’s its connection to marital rape?

The term ukuthwala has various meanings in South Africa’s dominant Nguni languages. In the context of marriage, it describes particular customary practices used to make a marriage happen quickly, and often with less expense in poorer communities.

These practices exist across South Africa, but are mostly documented among the Xhosa and Zulu people. Historically, ukuthwala has also been practised in different forms. Some forms of ukuthwala are more like elopement. Other forms are extremely violent, where a girl is abducted by a group of men, beaten, raped and forced to marry a man typically much older than her and a stranger.


Read more: Rethinking ukuthwala, the South African ‘bride abduction’ custom


Examining violent ukuthwala is another way to understand how marital rape is condoned. A growing body of ukuthwala research, including my own, shows how, for generations, some families and communities have used the custom and rape to control unwilling brides and transform their social status from girl to wife.

Gradually, more research is showing how certain communities don’t view the sexual force in ukuthwala as rape, but see it as an acceptable means for creating and maintaining a marriage – a part of custom.

What happens when women turn to South Africa’s courts?

Because of the cultural misunderstandings of marital rape, wives face significant hurdles in getting their case moved along from police to prosecutors to trial before a judge. Participants in my marital rape research expressed how police sometimes mock wives seeking help. They believe it’s not possible for a husband to rape a wife and maintain that criminal punishment is not appropriate.

Prosecutors also have problematic views about marital rape. A 2017 rape attrition study by the South African Medical Research Council found that prosecutors were reluctant to refer intimate partner rapes, including marital rapes, for trial.


Read more: Rape in South Africa: why the system is failing women


We need more research about how marital rape is treated by the courts. But there’s evidence of similar thinking held by judges. In a few appeals cases that I analysed, judges affirmed husbands’ rape convictions but handed down lesser sentences because of the marital relationships. This minimises a wife’s pain and the seriousness of marital rape.

How does South Africa best address the problem?

My research emphasises that marital rape survivors need specialised, empathic and personalised assistance. Society can start by listening and being kind to women who divulge their pain.

I’ve found that women’s community-based organisations like Masimanyane and Mosaic are critical for providing non-judgmental and culturally-aware spaces for women seeking support when facing violence.

Awareness raising and education at national and local levels is vital to dismantle the longstanding idea that husbands are entitled to sex in marriage. This is also critical for wives to understand their rights to wellbeing and sexual autonomy.

Lastly, civil servants that survivors engage with – medical professionals, police, prosecutors, judges – must be properly sensitised to the unique circumstances of marital rape survivors. There should be greater oversight of their professional conduct.

– Rape within marriage is still silenced in South Africa – why women are being failed
– https://theconversation.com/rape-within-marriage-is-still-silenced-in-south-africa-why-women-are-being-failed-260856

APO Group and Africanian News strengthen strategic alliance after three years of collaboration

Source: APO – Report:

After several years of successful collaboration, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading, award-winning, pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, and Africanian News (https://Africanian.com), an international newspaper based in Equatorial Guinea, have officially formalised their partnership to enhance content amplification across the continent and beyond.

The signing of this agreement consolidates a relationship that has already proven effective, enabling Africanian News to distribute its stories through APO Group’s extensive network covering all 54 African nations and key international markets. This network includes hundreds of African media outlets, as well as strategic contacts in Europe, the Americas, and Asia, ensuring the publication’s stories reach diverse global audiences.

The renewed partnership aims to boost the visibility and impact of both Africanian News content and APO Group content, reinforcing both organisations’ presence within the African and international media ecosystems. It also includes the integration of the Malabo-based newspaper’s press releases into APO Group’s Africa Newsroom platform (www.Africa-Newsroom.com) – a trusted information hub used by organisations, governments, and corporations to distribute reliable news across the continent. This guarantees that Africanian News’ reports and analyses are delivered promptly to journalists, editors, and media professionals across multiple sectors.

For nearly two decades, APO Group has been Africa’s leading communications consultancy and press release distribution service, offering clients strategic and professional media exposure through its extensive global network.

Meanwhile, Africanian News stands out as an international publication headquartered in Equatorial Guinea, committed to promoting an African narrative told by Africans and shared with the world – with specialised coverage in economics, entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, and the continent’s progress.

– on behalf of Africanian News.

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.  

Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 and again in 2025 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards.

APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences. 

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Egypt – During Her Participation in the Food and Agriculture Forum in Rome, Italy: Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation and the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Sign a Letter of Intent on Egypt’s Membership and Hosting of the Regional Leadership Academy

Source: APO – Report:

  • Al-Mashat: “The Academy strengthens our partnership with FAO to prepare future leaders in the field of sustainable agri-food systems.”
  • Egypt is consolidating its regional role as a hub for knowledge, experience exchange, and South–South cooperation in food security and agricultural development.

Her Excellency Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, and Dr. Qu Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), signed a Letter of Intent regarding Egypt’s membership and hosting of the Regional Leadership Academy.

Established by FAO, the Academy serves as a regional center for training leaders and decision-makers in public policy areas related to agri-food system transformation, contributing to institutional capacity-building and supporting policymakers in the region to advance this transformation efficiently and independently.

The signing took place during the World Food Forum (WFF) 2025, organized by FAO at its headquarters in Rome, with high-level participation from government representatives, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society.

Dr. Al-Mashat stated that the signing of the Letter of Intent between the Ministry and FAO reflects the long-standing partnership between both sides and supports the Egyptian state’s efforts to promote sustainable development and build national and regional capacities in leadership and institutional transformation.

She emphasized that this step in bilateral cooperation reinforces joint efforts to accelerate the transformation of agri-food systems and facilitate dialogue among relevant institutions and investors, including financial institutions.

The Minister noted that Egypt’s hosting of the Academy represents an important milestone in consolidating its regional role as a hub for knowledge and experience exchange in food security and agricultural development, as well as in the transition toward sustainable food systems, in line with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Dr. Al-Mashat further explained that the Academy aims to prepare young leaders capable of driving effective institutional change in agricultural and food policy areas, and of building resilient and sustainable systems to address global challenges such as climate change and natural resource scarcity.

She added that cooperation with FAO reflects the Egyptian state’s belief in the importance of investing in human capital and enhancing leadership competencies capable of formulating and implementing integrated development policies. She underscored that capacity-building remains a fundamental pillar of Egypt’s efforts to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development.

The Minister also highlighted that the establishment of the Academy in Egypt will contribute to enhancing South–South cooperation and promoting knowledge and expertise exchange among Arab and African countries, further reinforcing Egypt’s position as a regional platform for development and international cooperation in the fields of food and agriculture.

According to the Letter of Intent, both parties agreed to advance digital transformation in agri-food systems across the Middle East and North Africa region, and to strengthen the efficiency, inclusiveness, sustainability, and resilience of these systems. This will be achieved by supporting national policies, developing leadership and strategic capacities among decision-makers in governments and relevant institutions, and promoting innovative research and tailored solutions in the field of agri-food systems.

– on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

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Civil Society and Gender Advocates Strengthen Coordination and Advocacy for Women’s Political Participation in Liberia

Source: APO – Report:

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Over 40 participants from civil society organizations (CSOs), women’s rights groups, gender advocates, the National Elections Commission (NEC), the Women’s Legislative Caucus, and the Law Reform Commission and the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection have completed a three-day capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening coordination and advocacy for increased women’s political participation in Liberia.

The training, held from October 8 to 10, was organized by UN Women and UNDP, under the Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP), with support from the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden, and technical support from the UN Electoral Assistance Division (EAD) of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.

Over the course of the workshop, participants examined barriers to women’s participation in politics and explored strategies for promoting women’s equal participation in politics. International experts and facilitators led a series of interactive sessions designed to build knowledge and enhance practical advocacy skills, and strengthen coordination among women’s rights groups, youth and disability organizations, and election observers.

Maarten Halff, Senior Political Affairs Officer and Electoral Systems Expert with the UN Electoral Assistance Division in New York, facilitated online sessions on “The Obstacles of Women’s Participation in Liberia: An Analysis of the 2023 Results,” “Quotas in Context: An ABC of Electoral Systems and Quotas,” and “Quotas in the Liberian Context: Options and Implications.”

Rindai Chipfunde-Vava, an international consultant from Zimbabwe, and Zage Filiposki, a UNDP Liberia electoral specialist, facilitated discussions utilizing the Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections (BRIDGE) curriculum and methodology. These included on topics of Women’s Participation in Politics: Targets and Numbers; Sex and Gender Definitions and Equality; Level Playing Field and International Standards of Elections; Advocacy, Campaigning and Lobbying on Women’s Political Empowerment (Negotiation Skills); and Addressing Gender Inequalities through Strategic Planning, Stakeholder Mapping, and Message Delivery Methods.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Mr. Louis Kuukpen, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Programmes, applauded participants for their dedication and underscored that gender equality is a shared responsibility that benefits all of society.

“Gender equality in my mind is not just about political participation. We need gender equality in all forms,” said Mr. Kuukpen. “We are not asking for too much. We are asking that a system which has not been fair, due to cultural, political, and economic reasons, be reset. We are not begging; we are asking that the right thing be done.” 

He called on stakeholders to sustain the momentum generated during the workshop and proposed the establishment of a network or reference group to continue collaboration and advocacy.

“Let’s leave here not closing the door,” he added. “We must keep the energy and continue to push the boundaries. The only way we can achieve sustainable development is by ensuring gender equality at every level.”

Ms. Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Country Representative, commended the level of engagement and partnership displayed by participants and institutions throughout the workshop. She commended the strong collaboration between the, NEC, Women’s Legislative Caucus, Law Reform Commission, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, UNDP, civil society organizations, youth and women’s groups, and the media for their shared commitment to advancing women’s political empowerment.

“When I walked in here, I just felt a seriousness, focused energy in the room,” Ms. Lamptey said. “You have been doing serious work, and you were all committed. Liberia has offered the world much and can offer much more when it comes to political representation.”

She highlighted that Liberia remains among the lowest-ranking countries in Africa in terms of women’s political representation, stressing the importance of adopting temporary special measures, such as gender quotas, to bridge the gap.

“Ensuring you all understand and champion this approach is crucial,” she noted. “Let’s hope that by 2029, we will not only have 11% of women in the legislature, but at least 30%, which is the floor.”

Ms. Lamptey also praised civil society organizations for their powerful advocacy during the 2023 elections, which helped place women’s leadership and violence against women in politics high on the national agenda. She encouraged participants to maintain coordination and strengthen joint advocacy going forward.

“Your role is essential to hold policymakers and public institutions to account,” she said. “We are stronger together, and when we are together, everything is possible.”

The workshop concluded with renewed commitment from all partners to sustain collaborative advocacy and promote inclusive electoral reforms that guarantee women’s meaningful participation and representation in decision-making processes. Participants also expressed interest in establishing a CSO coordination or networking platform to sustain collaboration and joint advocacy on women’s political participation. 

The Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP) supports national institutions and processes to promote inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance. The project is managed by UNDP and implemented in partnership with UN Women, the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy and the National Elections Commission, with funding support from the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden.

– on behalf of UN Women – Africa.

Qatar: Congo’s Government, Congo River Alliance Sign Ceasefire Monitoring and Verification Mechanism

Source: APO – Report:

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The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Congo River Alliance (M23 Movement) signed in Doha on Tuesday an agreement to establish a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, facilitated by the State of Qatar, in line with the Doha Declaration of Principles signed on July 19, 2025.

The mechanism will oversee the implementation of the permanent ceasefire, investigate and verify reported violations, and communicate with relevant parties to prevent a resumption of hostilities.

The State of Qatar, the United States of America, and the African Union will participate in this mechanism as observers, enhancing transparency and supporting regional and international efforts aimed at ensuring the success of the peace process in the Great Lakes region. The establishment of the mechanism represents a pivotal step toward enhancing confidence-building and moving forward toward a comprehensive peace agreement between the two parties to the conflict.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs voiced the State of Qatar’s gratitude and appreciation to the African Union, the United States of America, and the Togolese Republic for their constructive contributions to supporting this process.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The State of Qatar.

Driving Deals and Catalyzing Growth: African Energy Week (AEW) to Return to Cape Town from 12-16 October 2026

Source: APO – Report:

The African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference and exhibition will return to Cape Town on October 12-16, 2026, as the premier meeting place for the African energy sector. On the back of a successful edition in 2025, the event will return bigger, bolder and better than before. With a focus on dealmaking, partnerships and strengthened global ties, the event will cement Africa’s position as the energy hub of the future.

AEW: Invest in African Energies 2026 returns at a critical time for the continent’s energy sector. With energy demand set to increase fourfold by 2040, the continent requires ambitious and scalable projects to meet anticipated consumption growth. Concurrently, geopolitical shifts in global markets have highlighted the need for diversified supply chains, and Africa, with its frontier basins and significant resource base, stands as the partner of choice for many nations.

Recent developments across Africa’s oil and gas market underscore its potential as a future global contender. In North Africa, major gas suppliers to the likes of Libya and Egypt are investing heavily in exploration and production with a view to enhance exports and facilitate greater domestic growth. Egypt recently signed three investment agreements worth over $121 million for exploration in the Western Desert, Suez Gulf and North of Sinai while Libya launched a 22-block licensing round in 2025 as part of a 25-year strategy to add eight billion barrels of crude oil to its proven reserves.

Algeria is also making a strong play for foreign investment. The country is planning to invest $60 billion in energy projects by 2029 and is promoting frontier acreage to raise its profile of proven reserves. Through policy reform and a multi-year licensing strategy, the country is increasing the competitiveness of doing business in Algeria. With goals to reach 200 billion cubic meters in gas production over the coming five years, these reforms have paved the way for accelerated growth and revenue generation.  

In Southern Africa, major frontiers such as Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are pursuing first oil and gas production while established markets such as Angola are ramping-up crude output. Namibia is on track for first oil by 2029 on the back of its Venus and Mopane discoveries; Zimbabwe is advancing the onshore Cabora Bassa gas project; while South Africa is seeking investors to monetize offshore gas resources. Angola strives to sustain output above one million barrels per day (bpd), with a slate of industry reforms enticing companies. In East Africa, Mozambique is pursuing three major LNG projects, with the Coral North FLNG project reaching a final investment decision (FID) in October 2026 and the Rovuma LNG development targeting FID in early 2026. Recent talks have also seen the Mozambique LNG project advancing. Tanzania is also eyeing first LNG production while Uganda’s Kingfisher and Tilenga fields are nearing production.

West and Central Africa continue to cement their position as major regional strongholds. Ambitious production targets reflect this. Nigeria is targeting 2.5 million bpd by 2027, the Republic of Congo is eyeing 500,000 bpd while Gabon is aiming for 220,000 bpd. Senegal and Ivory Coast have recently joined Africa’s group of oil producers, with first oil achieved at the Sangomar and Baleine projects respectively. Regional gas projects have also demonstrated the potential for investing in the region. The Republic of Congo is nearing the start of the second phase of the Congo LNG project while Senegal and Mauritania are striving for full operational capacity at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project. Amid these developments, regional reforms and licensing rounds have enhanced the region’s appeal as an investment destination.  

Beyond oil and gas, Africa is advancing the development of low-carbon solutions, putting in place mechanisms to attract investment in renewable energy, green hydrogen and broader power projects. With a view to achieve universal access to electricity, countries across the continent are positioning these industries as cornerstones of economic growth and industrialization. From South Africa’s Hydrogen Valley and Coega Green Ammonia project to Mauritania’s vision for 60GW of hybrid solar and wind and 35 GW of green hydrogen to Namibia’s Hyphen Hydrogen and Daures Green Hydrogen developments, Africa is leading in terms of low-carbon fuels. Regional power pools, off-grid solar, hybrid electricity systems and biofuels are also advancing, while major hydropower projects in Ethiopia, the DRC, The Gambia and more offer new avenues for improved energy access. As the world transitions to a low-carbon energy future, Africa has a unique opportunity to leverage its resources and human capital to lead a just and equitable energy transition.

It is within this context that AEW: Invest in African Energies 2026 returns. As the largest event of its kind on the continent, the event is uniquely positioned to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities witnessed across the continent’s energy sector. By shining a spotlight on Africa’s diverse and evolving energy market, the event connects capital to projects and investors to African opportunities.

“With Africa’s oil, gas, and renewable sectors entering a transformative new phase, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2026 will once again serve as the heartbeat of the continent’s energy investment agenda. From licensing rounds and project announcements to renewable launches and cross-border partnerships, Cape Town will be the meeting place where Africa’s energy and development goals converge,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and World Bank organize regional seminar on international taxation

Source: APO – Report:

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A regional seminar on international taxation was held in Accra, Ghana, from September 22nd to 26th 2025, jointly organized by the World Bank’s EMFTX team and the ECOWAS Commission, with support from regional and international partners.

The seminar brought together over 30 participants from ECOWAS Member States and observer countries, including Benin, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Mauritania. Senior officials from Ministries of Finance and Tax Administrations convened to exchange experiences and deepen their understanding of emerging issues in international taxation.

Over the course of 18 sessions, discussions covered a wide range of topics such as the ECOWAS Supplementary Acts on the Elimination of Double Taxation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters, implementation of the Global Minimum Tax (GMT), reform of tax incentives, anti-BEPS measures, transfer pricing, natural resource taxation, and VAT on digital transactions. Participants shared country experiences, highlighting varying levels of progress in adopting international tax standards, while some countries are conducting impact assessments and legislative reviews, others are still in the early stages of implementation.

The seminar highlighted the importance of aligning national tax systems with evolving global norms and strengthening regional cooperation to harmonize policies, enhance compliance and improve revenue collection. Participants emphasized the need for continued technical assistance and capacity building to support domestic policy reforms.

The seminar concluded with a strong call for sustained collaboration among ECOWAS Member States, development partners, and international organizations to strengthen tax systems and promote fair and efficient taxation across the region.

– on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Ethiopia among pioneers in rolling out Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered digital X-ray for Tuberculosis (TB) screening World Health Organization (WHO) Ethiopia receives commendation for its contribution to adopting innovations and supporting national efforts to end tuberculosis

Source: APO – Report:

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Ethiopia has taken a major step forward in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) by launching a national AI-powered digital X-ray system for TB screening. The launch, held on 18 September 2025 during the Annual Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Other Lung Diseases Review Meeting, was officiated by Dr Dereje Duguma, State Minister of Health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Ethiopia was recognized and commended for its critical contribution to this national milestone. WHO played a central role in developing the National Implementation Guideline on AI-Powered Digital X-ray for Tuberculosis Screening and in building the capacity of health workers across the country.

To facilitate the national rollout, WHO Ethiopia supported the training of 75 health-care workers, including radiology personnel and program officers, to effectively operate the machines for TB screening and ensure linkage to diagnosis and care.

“Ethiopia is one of the first countries in Africa to adopt and implement this new innovation at such a large scale,” said Dr Dereje Duguma, State Minister of Health. “The country has procured and distributed 225 AI-powered digital X-ray machines to health facilities across all regions to support early TB screening and detection. Strong government commitment and partner collaboration are the backbones of this major milestone in our national efforts to end the TB epidemic.”

Dr Dereje extended his appreciation to WHO Ethiopia, REACH Ethiopia, and other partners for their technical and operational support, which has been instrumental in developing the national guidance and strengthening the capacity of the health workforce.

During the event, WHO Ethiopia received a certificate of recognition from the Ministry of Health for its unwavering support to the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Other Lung Diseases Program and the country’s broader fight against TB.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which most commonly affects the lungs. It spreads through droplet infection. Many people infected with TB may not develop symptoms, but those with active disease often experience a persistent cough, low-grade fever, night sweats, loss of appetite, and significant weight loss. TB is preventable and curable with a standard four- to six-month course of antibiotics.

Ethiopia is among the 30 high-burden countries for TB and TB/HIV. Tuberculosis is one of the top ten causes of death worldwide and the leading infectious killer. According to the WHO Global TB Report 2024, there are an estimated 188,000 (146 per 100,000) incident TB cases in Ethiopia. The current humanitarian context—including conflict, population displacement, and drought—is fueling TB transmission and increasing the risk of drug-resistant TB. An estimated 1.1% of new TB cases and 12% of previously treated cases are drug resistant.

– on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Ethiopia.

China: President Xi Jinping Meets with Mozambican Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levi

Source: APO – Report:

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On the morning of October 14, 2025, President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with Mozambican Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levi, who is in China for the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women.

President Xi noted that over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, traditional friendship between China and Mozambique has withstood the test of international vicissitudes and remained rock-solid. China will continue to work with Mozambique to firmly support each other, strengthen strategic coordination, enhance mutually beneficial cooperation, deepen the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, and jointly make the next five decades even more remarkable.

President Xi stressed that China supports Mozambique in independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and upholding national solidarity and stability. China is ready to work with Mozambique to strengthen cooperation between governments, political parties and legislatures, and deepen experience sharing on the governance of political parties and states. The two sides should take the implementation of the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit as an opportunity to enhance practical cooperation, and jointly explore new ways of cooperation which highlight the comprehensive and coordinated development of energy and mineral resources and infrastructure. Efforts should be made to accelerate the establishment of the China Cultural Center in Mozambique to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and bring the two peoples closer. China will work with Mozambique to implement the Global Governance Initiative, oppose unilateralism and hegemonism, and uphold the common interests of the two countries and the Global South.

Prime Minister Levi applauded that President Xi Jinping’s profound and impactful speech at the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women. She said that Mozambique is ready to work with China to deliver on the outcomes of the Meeting and advance the global cause of women. China is a trusted and good partner of Mozambique. The two countries have always supported each other and maintained close cooperation over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties. Mozambique is firmly committed to the one-China principle, and wishes to learn from China’s development experience, enhance cooperation with China in economy and trade, energy, mining, science and technology, education and other fields, to boost its own economic and social development and bring more benefits to its people. Mozambique supports the four major Global Initiatives proposed by China and appreciates that China has actively contributed to global prosperity and stability through its own development. Mozambique will strengthen multilateral cooperation with China to make the global governance system more just and equitable.

Wang Yi was present at the meeting.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

China: President Xi Jinping Meets with Ghanaian President John Mahama

Source: APO – Report:

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On the morning of October 14, 2025, President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with Ghanaian President John Mahama, who is in China for the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women.

President Xi noted that this year marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Ghana. The China-Ghana friendship was jointly fostered by the older generation of leaders of the two countries and has been growing from strength to strength. China firmly supports Ghana in pursuing a path toward modernization suited to its national conditions, and is ready to work with Ghana to take cooperation in various fields to a higher level and make greater contributions to jointly building the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. 

President Xi stressed that China always follows the principle of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, and takes the right approach to friendship and interests in carrying out cooperation with Africa. China will work with Ghana to strengthen political mutual trust and support each other on issues involving each other’s core interests and major concerns. The two sides should jointly implement the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit, explore diversified cooperation models, and enhance cooperation in such fields as mining, energy, infrastructure, agriculture and fishing. Such efforts will help Ghana turn its strengths in resources into growth momentum, balance resource development and environmental protection, and drive high-quality development of cooperation between the two countries. The two sides should jointly implement the Global Governance Initiative and work for a more just and equitable global governance system. The two sides reached consensus in principle on the early harvest arrangements of the agreement on economic partnership for shared development. It is hoped that Ghana can benefit from the zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines China gave to African countries that have diplomatic relations as early as possible.

President Mahama extended warm congratulations to China on its successful convening of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women. He noted that the Meeting is highly significant and demonstrates China’s leadership in championing the global cause of women. He said that Ghana-China relations are friendly and historic, and expressed appreciation to China for the strong support and assistance to Ghana through the FOCAC and Belt and Road cooperation. Ghana firmly abides by the one-China policy and is committed to deepening relations with China. He said that Ghana looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in trade, digital economy, infrastructure, energy, mining, and people-to-people exchanges, to take bilateral relations to a whole new level. Ghana firmly supports multilateralism and will work closer with China and other like-minded countries to enhance coordination on multilateral platforms, act on the Global Governance Initiative, and uphold international fairness and justice.

Wang Yi was present at the meeting.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.