Posts

Posted on

Dr. Rania Al-Mashat in an Interview with the Global Bloomberg Network

Source: APO – Report:

.

H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, emphasized that H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, had a decisive and clear vision since October 2023 regarding the war on Gaza, based on the necessity of achieving peace and a complete commitment to the rights of the Palestinian people. This came during an interview with the global Bloomberg network.

Regarding the “Sharm El Sheikh Summit for Peace”, Dr. Al-Mashat said: “It is a very important day, not just for the region but for the entire world. We know that the Palestinian people have suffered for two years, so reaching a resolution and laying the foundations for peace will be essential for the future of the region. The world has also been affected by the economic repercussions of what happened in the Suez Canal, as it is a vital route for international trade. Therefore, we look forward to a positive day where leaders from all over the world will gather.”

Regarding the economic impact of the war on the Gaza Strip, the Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation noted that reaching a sustainable settlement that achieves calm in the region will ensure the resumption of ship traffic in the Suez Canal, which will be very positive for both Egypt and the cost of global trade.

Dr. Al-Mashat highlighted that Egypt has dealt flexibly with the decrease in Suez Canal traffic due to regional tensions by starting to implement necessary economic reforms since March 2024, despite the challenges resulting from the conflict in the region. These reforms included fiscal consolidation, monetary policy, a flexible exchange rate, and setting a ceiling for public investments. She added that these reforms contributed to achieving growth in the GDP, reaching 4.4% by the end of June, and 5% during the last quarter.

Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out that this growth is driven by an economic model based on manufacturing, increased production, and focusing on tradable sectors. “If we look at the structure of growth in Egypt, we find that its sources come from increased manufacturing activity, benefiting from the reforms implemented in March 2024. We are still continuing to implement an ambitious structural reform program aimed at increasing competitiveness, fostering private sector participation, and capitalizing on new investments in the country.”

Regarding the future of the Egyptian economy, Dr. Al-Mashat reaffirmed that Egypt launched “Egypt’s Narrative for Economic Development” to identify priority sectors for attracting foreign investments, benefiting from the strong infrastructure established over the past years that supports industry and export. The Minister expected 2026 to be a turning point for the Egyptian economy, with actual contributions from real economy sectors, primarily industry, and continued growth in tourism, communications, and remittances from Egyptians abroad.

Dr. Al-Mashat added that “we have witnessed strong investment flows recently, especially in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, through injecting new investments or establishing joint projects, which represents favorable opportunities for the Egyptian economy to increase production, exports, and accelerate the pace of growth.”

Dr. Al-Mashat also mentioned the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. She outlined that Egypt is linked to a program with the Fund and fruitful partnerships with the European Union and the World Bank to enhance sources of financing that support our ambitious structural reform program, adding that “we will address the ongoing reforms during the meetings.”

Dr. Al-Mashat indicated that the credit rating upgrade by Standard & Poor’s global agency is proof that these reforms are moving in the right direction. “As stated in their report, there are great opportunities for growth if we continue to implement these reforms,” she added. “We are committed to them, and we are working to open the economy further, increase competition, and overcome the challenges we faced during the past years. All of this is happening despite the difficult geopolitical landscape in the region, but we hope that things will move in a positive direction after yesterday’s historic summit in Sharm El Sheikh, which will positively reflect on the Egyptian economy and boost gains and returns for investors in Egypt”.

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

Posted on

Government convenes second DDM meeting in Kimberley

Source: Government of South Africa

Government convenes second DDM meeting in Kimberley

As part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination and alignment between the three spheres of government, Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli will convene the Second District Development Model (DDM) Meeting in the Northern Cape.

Taking place at the Frances Baard District Municipality Lecture Rooms on Wednesday.

According to the Presidency, the meeting forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination and alignment between the three spheres of government, to ensure integrated planning, service delivery and accountability, in line with the DDM’s “One District, One Plan” approach.

“This engagement will review progress on the implementation of the District One Plan, assess catalytic projects under execution, and identify emerging challenges that require multi-sectoral intervention.

“The session will also set out the roadmap towards Imbizos in the district and ensure that government programmes respond effectively to the developmental prior,” the Presidency said in a statement on Tuesday.

The Deputy Minister will be joined by the Northern Cape MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Limakatso Koloi and the Executive Mayor of the Frances Baard District Municipality, Wende Marekwa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin

50 views

Posted on

SA to roll out lenacapavir for HIV prevention 

Source: Government of South Africa

SA to roll out lenacapavir for HIV prevention 

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi revealed that South Africa intends to roll out lenacapavir, a revolutionary long-acting HIV prevention method that could transform public health as early as March 2026.

“The rolling out date of March or April all depends on how smart we work together,” he said in making the significant announcement.

The Minister was speaking at the national roundtable on lenacapavir access and sustainability in South Africa on Tuesday.

This as the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), together with the Department of Health, are convening a multi-stakeholder roundtable session to discuss the country’s preparedness to roll out lenacapavir. 

Lenacapavir is a revolutionary long-acting injectable drug that offers six months of protection with just two annual doses.

At a national roundtable meeting, Motsoaledi highlighted the drug’s potential to address critical gaps in current HIV prevention methods. 

“We need prevention methods that fit into people’s lives, that address the gaps left by existing tools. This is where lenacapavir comes in as a timely and much-needed innovation to help us overcome the persistent challenges in our HIV/AIDS response, especially when it comes to prevention. Lenacapavir expands the choices within our combination prevention strategy.”

Motsoaledi believes that the jab widens the scope of choices for citizens and is an empowering option and ensures that no one is left behind simply because the existing tools did not fit into their lives.

The new prevention option comes at a critical time, with approximately 149 000 South Africans having acquired HIV in 2022 and 2023 alone. 

According to the Minister, the lenacapavir’s clinical trials have shown remarkable efficacy, with 100% protection among women and 96% protection among men who have sex with men and transgender women.

The Minister announced that the initial rollout will focus on 23 high-incident districts across six provinces, targeting approximately 360 high-performing public clinics within these areas.

The Global Fund has provided a US$29 million grant to support approximately 456 000 initiations over two years, translating into 912 000 doses.

“I want to emphasise, ladies and gentlemen, it is not just a dream that we are intending to end AIDS as a public health threat in our lifetime. We have no choice. We’ve got to do it, and we are going to do it together,” he told delegates. 

The Minister announced that key target populations include pregnant and breastfeeding women, adolescent girls, female sex workers, and men who have sex with men – groups traditionally most vulnerable to HIV transmission.

According to the Minister, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has already recommended lenacapavir as an additional HIV prevention choice, marking a significant milestone in global HIV prevention efforts.

Affordability 

He said government plans to integrate it into domestic financing mechanisms, aiming for routine funding after two years. 

Gilead and six pharmaceutical companies, including one in Egypt, will produce the jab at US US$40 per person per annum, a significant reduction from US$28 000. 

“What revolutions are made of is reducing costs 700 times,” the Health Minister said, highlighting the unprecedented affordability of the treatment.

Pharmaceutical companies like Hetero and partnerships with the Gates Foundation will produce generic versions, while South Africa actively pursues local manufacturing capabilities.

“So, we wish to thank Gilead for issuing a voluntary licence to make this partnership possible.”

In addition, he announced R2 billion funding from the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for six months to maintain current HIV and AIDS programmes. The CDC is the national public health agency of the United States.

“This is to keep the programmes that were there so that they don’t collapse. I think we should welcome this as much as it is not what we’re expecting, but we must welcome this.” 

Reducing infection

The Minister stressed that the goal is to reduce new HIV infections to below 0.1% by 2032.

“Mathematical modelling suggests that if two to four million people use lenacapavir over 12 to 24 months, South Africa could achieve near-elimination of new HIV infections, marking a potential turning point in the country’s decades-long battle against the epidemic.” 

Government has also committed to a comprehensive approach involving community engagement, civil society participation, and sustainable financing mechanisms. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile

95 views

Posted on

Conclure des accords et stimuler la croissance : African Energy Week (AEW) revient au Cap du 12 au 16 octobre 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La conférence et exposition African Energy Week (AEW) : Invest in African Energy sera de retour au Cap du 12 au 16 octobre 2026, en tant que lieu de rencontre privilégié pour le secteur énergétique africain. Fort du succès de l’édition 2025, l’événement reviendra plus grand, plus audacieux et meilleur que jamais. Axé sur la conclusion d’accords, les partenariats et le renforcement des liens internationaux, l’événement consolidera la position de l’Afrique en tant que plaque tournante énergétique de l’avenir.

L’AEW : Invest in African Energy 2026 revient à un moment critique pour le secteur énergétique du continent. Avec une demande énergétique qui devrait quadrupler d’ici 2040, le continent a besoin de projets ambitieux et évolutifs pour répondre à la croissance prévue de la consommation. Parallèlement, les changements géopolitiques sur les marchés mondiaux ont mis en évidence la nécessité de diversifier les chaînes d’approvisionnement, et l’Afrique, avec ses bassins frontaliers et ses ressources importantes, apparaît comme le partenaire de choix pour de nombreux pays.

Les développements récents sur le marché africain du pétrole et du gaz soulignent son potentiel en tant que futur acteur mondial. En Afrique du Nord, les principaux fournisseurs de gaz, tels que la Libye et l’Égypte, investissent massivement dans l’exploration et la production afin d’accroître leurs exportations et de faciliter la croissance nationale. L’Égypte a récemment signé trois accords d’investissement d’une valeur de plus de 121 millions de dollars pour l’exploration dans le désert occidental, le golfe de Suez et le nord du Sinaï, tandis que la Libye a lancé un cycle d’octroi de licences pour 22 blocs en 2025 dans le cadre d’une stratégie sur 25 ans visant à ajouter huit milliards de barils de pétrole brut à ses réserves prouvées.

L’Algérie mise également fortement sur les investissements étrangers. Le pays prévoit d’investir 60 milliards de dollars dans des projets énergétiques d’ici 2029 et fait la promotion de ses terres frontalières afin d’améliorer son profil en matière de réserves prouvées. Grâce à une réforme politique et à une stratégie pluriannuelle d’octroi de licences, le pays renforce la compétitivité des activités commerciales en Algérie. Avec pour objectif d’atteindre 200 milliards de mètres cubes de production de gaz au cours des cinq prochaines années, ces réformes ont ouvert la voie à une croissance accélérée et à la génération de revenus.

En Afrique australe, de grands pays pionniers tels que la Namibie, l’Afrique du Sud et le Zimbabwe se lancent dans la production de pétrole et de gaz, tandis que des marchés établis comme l’Angola augmentent leur production de brut. La Namibie est en bonne voie pour produire son premier pétrole d’ici 2029 grâce à ses découvertes à Venus et Mopane ; le Zimbabwe fait progresser le projet gazier onshore de Cabora Bassa ; tandis que l’Afrique du Sud recherche des investisseurs pour monétiser ses ressources gazières offshore. L’Angola s’efforce de maintenir sa production au-dessus d’un million de barils par jour (bpj), avec une série de réformes industrielles qui attirent les entreprises. En Afrique de l’Est, le Mozambique poursuit trois grands projets de GNL, le projet Coral North FLNG devant faire l’objet d’une décision finale d’investissement (FID) en octobre 2026 et le projet Rovuma LNG visant une FID début 2026. Les récentes discussions ont également permis de faire avancer le projet Mozambique LNG. La Tanzanie envisage également sa première production de GNL, tandis que les champs Kingfisher et Tilenga en Ouganda sont sur le point d’entrer en production.

L’Afrique occidentale et centrale continue de consolider sa position de bastion régional majeur. Les objectifs de production ambitieux en sont le reflet. Le Nigeria vise 2,5 millions de barils par jour d’ici 2027, la République du Congo envisage 500 000 barils par jour, tandis que le Gabon vise 220 000 barils par jour. Le Sénégal et la Côte d’Ivoire ont récemment rejoint le groupe des producteurs de pétrole africains, avec une première production réalisée respectivement dans le cadre des projets Sangomar et Baleine. Les projets gaziers régionaux ont également démontré le potentiel d’investissement dans la région. La République du Congo est sur le point de lancer la deuxième phase du projet Congo LNG, tandis que le Sénégal et la Mauritanie s’efforcent d’atteindre la pleine capacité opérationnelle du projet Greater Tortue Ahmeyim. Dans ce contexte, les réformes régionales et les cycles d’octroi de licences ont renforcé l’attrait de la région en tant que destination d’investissement.

Au-delà du pétrole et du gaz, l’Afrique fait progresser le développement de solutions à faible émission de carbone, en mettant en place des mécanismes pour attirer les investissements dans les énergies renouvelables, l’hydrogène vert et des projets énergétiques plus larges. Dans le but de parvenir à un accès universel à l’électricité, les pays du continent positionnent ces industries comme les pierres angulaires de la croissance économique et de l’industrialisation. De l’Hydrogen Valley et du projet Coega Green Ammonia en Afrique du Sud à la vision de la Mauritanie pour 60 GW d’énergie hybride solaire et éolienne et 35 GW d’hydrogène vert, en passant par les développements Hyphen Hydrogen et Daures Green Hydrogen en Namibie, l’Afrique est à la pointe en matière de combustibles à faible émission de carbone. Les pools énergétiques régionaux, l’énergie solaire hors réseau, les systèmes électriques hybrides et les biocarburants progressent également, tandis que de grands projets hydroélectriques en Éthiopie, en RDC, en Gambie et ailleurs offrent de nouvelles perspectives pour améliorer l’accès à l’énergie. Alors que le monde s’oriente vers un avenir énergétique à faible émission de carbone, l’Afrique a une occasion unique de tirer parti de ses ressources et de son capital humain pour mener une transition énergétique juste et équitable.

C’est dans ce contexte que revient AEW : Invest in African Energy 2026. En tant que plus grand événement de ce type sur le continent, il occupe une place unique pour aborder les défis et les opportunités les plus pressants du secteur énergétique africain. En mettant en lumière le marché énergétique diversifié et en pleine évolution de l’Afrique, l’événement met en relation les capitaux avec les projets et les investisseurs avec les opportunités africaines.

« Alors que les secteurs africains du pétrole, du gaz et des énergies renouvelables entrent dans une nouvelle phase de transformation, AEW : Invest in African Energy 2026 sera une fois de plus au cœur du programme d’investissement énergétique du continent. Des cycles d’octroi de licences et des annonces de projets aux lancements d’énergies renouvelables et aux partenariats transfrontaliers, Le Cap sera le lieu de rencontre où convergeront les objectifs énergétiques et de développement de l’Afrique », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

Media files

Posted on

Forum International du Cadre de Vie 2025 : Des engagements renouvelés au profit de l’innovation urbaine et de l’action climatique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Les rideaux sont tombés sur la troisième édition du Forum International du Cadre de Vie (FIC), tenue du 9 au 11 octobre 2025 au Sofitel Hôtel de Cotonou. Véritable rendez-vous des acteurs du développement urbain durable, le FIC 2025 a confirmé son rôle de plateforme stratégique de réflexion, d’échange et de co-construction autour des grands enjeux liés à l’aménagement du territoire, à la résilience urbaine et à la qualité du cadre de vie au Bénin et en Afrique. 

Durant trois jours, la capitale économique du Bénin a été le théâtre de débats dynamiques, de partages d’expériences et de réflexions prospectives. Organisé sous l’égide du Ministre du Cadre de Vie et des Transports, chargé du Développement Durable, Monsieur José TONATO, et coordonné par la Direction Générale de la Construction et de l’Habitat (DGCH), le FIC 2025 a offert une programmation riche : panels, conférences thématiques, ateliers pratiques, challenges et hackathon, sans oublier l’exposition EXPO’FIC, les rencontres B2B et d’autres activités interactives. 

L’EXPO–FIC’25 a rassemblé de nombreux acteurs publics et privés venus présenter leurs innovations dans le domaine de la construction, de la gestion urbaine et de la durabilité environnementale. Parmi les participants figuraient des membres du gouvernement, des Experts internationaux, des représentants du monde académique, des urbanistes, architectes, entrepreneurs, collectivités locales et partenaires techniques et financiers. Tous ont partagé leurs visions et leurs solutions pour bâtir les villes africaines de demain, plus vertes, inclusives et intelligentes. 

Lors de la cérémonie de clôture, le Ministre José TONATO a salué l’engagement des participants et partenaires qui ont contribué au succès de cette édition. Il a réaffirmé que le FIC constitue un instrument stratégique de la politique gouvernementale en matière de cadre de vie et de développement durable. Le Ministre a insisté sur la nécessité d’une urbanisation maîtrisée et responsable, face à la croissance rapide des villes béninoises. Il a rappelé les progrès enregistrés depuis 2016 dans des domaines tels que l’assainissement, la construction durable, la gestion des déchets et la requalification des espaces publics, conformément aux objectifs du Programme d’Action du Gouvernement (PAG 2021–2026). 

Le Directeur Général de la Construction et de l’Habitat, Monsieur Victor Kouassi ANANOUH, a pour sa part félicité le Ministre José TONATO pour son leadership visionnaire. Il a souligné que le FIC s’impose désormais comme un laboratoire d’idées et un cadre de décision favorisant des actions concrètes dans la planification urbaine. Présentant la synthèse des travaux, il a mis en lumière les grandes recommandations issues des échanges, tout en appelant à la pérennisation de l’initiative pour renforcer la coopération entre les acteurs du secteur. 

En marge du forum, une mise en terre symbolique de plants a été organisée au Complexe scolaire d’Akogbato, traduisant l’engagement en faveur des espaces verts et de la durabilité environnementale. L’évènement s’est conclu par une cérémonie de distinctions : le Ministre TONATO a été honoré pour son action en faveur de l’assainissement urbain, tandis que plusieurs lauréats du hackathon, notamment des étudiants d’Epitech, ainsi que des entreprises telles que Porteo BTP et l’association ABéTec-BTP, ont été récompensés pour leurs projets innovants. 

Le FIC 2025 s’achève ainsi sur une note d’espoir et d’engagement renouvelé pour un cadre de vie moderne, humain et résilient.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République du Bénin.

Posted on

Progress made in removal of Western Cape abandoned vessels 

Source: Government of South Africa

Government has reported significant progress in clearing sunken and abandoned vessels from Western Cape harbours.

“The removal of these wrecks is a critical step in addressing the environmental and safety risks posed by sunken and abandoned vessels, which constitute approximately 90% of such wrecks in Hout Bay Harbour,” the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George said on Tuesday. 

By clearing these vessels, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s (DFFE) is creating additional mooring and berthing space, responding to numerous requests from the fishing industry for access to these facilities. 

This development is expected to stimulate economic activity, including increased demand for vessel building and job creation in coastal communities.

These efforts are part of the DFFE ongoing revitalisation of the Proclaimed Fishing Harbours located in Lamberts Bay, St Helena Bay, Saldanha Bay, Hout Bay, and Gordon’s Bay.

A total of 37 vessels has been identified in these five harbours, comprising 17 abandoned vessels and 20 sunken vessels. To date, six vessels have been attended to or removed by their owners at their own cost, leaving 31 vessels remaining. 

Of these, 17 vessels—most of which are small leisure boats in Hout Bay Harbour—are expected to be removed through lifting and cutting operations before the end of 2025.

“The successful progress in removing sunken and abandoned vessels across our Western Cape harbours is a testament to our dedication to ensuring safe and sustainable fishing harbours. These efforts not only mitigate environmental and navigational risks but also create opportunities for economic growth by freeing up valuable mooring space,” the Minister said.

In Hout Bay, which accounts for the majority of the remaining vessels (25 identified, with 23 still to be addressed and 10 slated for lifting), the salvage operation for the vessels Edelweiss and African Unity has been underway for the past five days.

Despite initial plans to complete the removal within three days, the complexity of the operation, including the discovery of an additional unidentified vessel beneath one of the wrecks, has extended the timeline.

Collaboration

The DFFE, in collaboration with the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), have expressed thier commitment to overseeing the completion of these operations in accordance with the Wreck and Salvage Act (Act No. 94 of 1996). 

SAMSA will continue to issue directives to vessel owners where necessary to facilitate removals.

“The collaborative efforts of our teams, SAMSA, and vessel owners are driving transformative change in our fishing harbours. We are committed to sustaining this momentum to ensure our harbours remain safe, functional, and economically vibrant,” the Minister said.

Teams have successfully pumped water from the vessels, and a team of divers is actively sealing identified holes to ensure the vessels can be safely floated and moved for salvaging. 

Additional vessels in Hout Bay, such as Merlin, Blue Boat, and Spes Nova, are scheduled for removal by the end of October 2025, while others like Grant and another Spes Nova are targeted for the end of December 2025. 

Several abandoned vessels, including SA 4256, C.Bull, Nico’s, Roly Poly, Royal Duke, Brilliant, Lucky Too, Teal, and two dinghies, are under discussion for lifting with a crane by November 2025. 

The owner of the White Boat has committed to repairing it and donating it to Small Scale Fisheries Co-Operatives.

In other harbours:
•    Gordon’s Bay (4 vessels identified, 1 remaining): The sunken Dolphin is set for removal by a diving school as part of a training programme, with a date to be confirmed by the end of October 2025. The abandoned vessels Sea Quest, Feelin Naughty, and Illusions – 29504 are also noted.
•    Lamberts Bay (2 vessels identified, 1 to be removed): The sunken Getruide ADF 549 and abandoned James Archer are pending, with SAMSA to issue a directive for Getruide ADF 549.
•    St Helena Bay (2 vessels identified, 2 to be removed): The sunken Arizon II and Anna SH1451P are pending SAMSA directives.
•    Saldanha Bay (4 vessels identified, 4 to be removed): The sunken Benguela Pride 350390, Petrie Hein –350553, OosterDAM 350481, and Angie V are pending SAMSA directives.

In May the Minister called for the urgent removal of wrecked and abandoned vessels that pose significant risks to navigation, marine ecosystems, and the safety of coastal communities.

READ | Efforts to remove wrecked and abandoned vessels
–SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Alleged cop killers to appear in court 

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Three alleged police killers are expected to appear before the Johannesburg Magistrates Court today on charges of murder, attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of ammunition, and possession of suspected stolen property.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) said the trio were arrested on Monday night in Berea, Selby and Eloff Extension. The arrests are in connection with the murder, attempted murder and armed robbery that occurred on 8 September 2025 in Benrose.

“On the day of the incident, it was reported that the deceased warrant officer Jabulani Mabuza’s girlfriend had a vehicle mechanical failure as she drove up the Benrose west on-ramp. The complainant then called the Warrant for assistance, and he came through. Just as the tow truck driver arrived to assist with the vehicle, they were accosted by unknown suspects who pointed them with a firearm as they disarmed the tow truck driver and shot warrant officer Mabuza. They went to the other side and pulled out Mabuza.  

“As they [did] do so, the tow truck driver managed to flee to his truck and drive to Jeppe police station for assistance,” said the Hawks.

Mabuza and his girlfriend managed to cross the freeway and were taken to Brenthurst Hospital for medical attention where he succumbed to his injuries.  

“Last night, 13 October 2025 an integrated multi-disciplinary team composed of the members of the Hawks’ Tactical Operational Management Section, Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Johannesburg, Head Office Crime Intelligence’s Modus Operandi Centre, DPCI’s National Priority Violent Crime Investigation based in Head Office, BadBoyz Security and Vision Tactical Security acting on information, executed warrants of arrest at three addresses in the Johannesburg area. 

“The operation resulted in all three wanted suspects being arrested. The team also recovered three unlicensed 9mm firearms (two Barrett pistols with serial numbers and a Norinco pistol with its serial number filed off), ammunition for the pistols, a laptop, a cellphone and a silver grey BMW suspected to have been used in the commission of crime,” said the Hawks. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Posted on

MoU to aid SA’s infrastructure plans

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will see the United Kingdom provide expertise and capacity support worth nearly R10 million to South Africa’s infrastructure development efforts.

This as Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson and the United Kingdom (UK) Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, Chris Bryant signed the MoU for infrastructure collaboration in London.

Monday’s signing follows the announcement of collaboration by Macpherson and UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves in Durban earlier this year to capacitate the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) as it works towards using public assets for the public good and turning South Africa into a construction site.

The partnership will see the United Kingdom provide expertise and capacity support worth nearly R10 million across three focus areas:
•    Project Capstone, which will support the effective operationalisation of the DPWI’s Special and Strategic Delivery Unit (SSDU). This unit will accelerate infrastructure delivery by focusing on high-impact, high-priority projects and addressing systemic process inefficiencies that hinder effective implementation.
•    Project Speed, which will enhance the management of public assets through more effective and efficient public sector asset management, including improved resource efficiency.
•    Infrastructure South Africa’s Adopt-a-Municipality Programme, which will strengthen infrastructure delivery at a municipal level in selected focus municipalities.

Minister Macpherson said the partnership demonstrates how international collaboration can help unlock South Africa’s infrastructure potential and improve the state’s capacity to deliver. He said this will help to realise his vision of using public assets for the public good and turning South Africa into a construction site.

“The MoU marks an important step forward in our efforts to turn South Africa into a construction site and ensure that public assets are used for the public good. By partnering with the United Kingdom, we are creating a foundation for stronger project preparation, improved delivery, and the upskilling of our public sector teams.

“This MoU shows that we are delivering on reform within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, ensuring that every project we undertake contributes meaningfully to job creation, local economic development, and the building of modern, resilient public infrastructure. 

“Our aim is to turn previously derelict buildings into assets for communities and ensure that construction projects are delivered on time and within budget. By working with all partners, we are well on our way to building a better South Africa,” said the Minister.

READ | SA to sign MoU on infrastructure collaboration
– SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Nações Unidas (ONU) e União Africana preocupadas com escalada da violência no Sudão do Sul

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

A crise política e humanitária no Sudão do Sul atingiu níveis alarmantes, com confrontos armados em larga escala, deslocamentos em massa e violações graves de direitos humanos. O alerta foi feito, esta segunda-feira, a Comissão das Nações Unidas sobre os Direitos Humanos no Sudão do Sul.

Após uma década de esforços da União Africana, UA, e de parceiros regionais para sustentar o processo de paz, o país enfrenta um colapso político que ameaça mergulhá-lo novamente numa guerra total.

Paralisia por corrupção e impunidade
Durante a sua missão à sede da União Africana, em Addis Abeba, a Comissão denunciou o “vácuo de justiça e responsabilização” que alimenta a estagnação política, a corrupção e o conflito. O relatório mais recente da Comissão, “Saques a uma Nação: Como a corrupção desenfreada desencadeou uma crise de direitos humanos no Sudão do Sul”, descreve como a apropriação sistemática de recursos públicos e o enriquecimento ilícito das elites governamentais continuam a privar milhões de sul-sudaneses de seus direitos básicos.

O comissário Barney Afako, que liderou a missão, afirmou que “o aumento dos combates, a crise política e a corrupção desenfreada são sintomas claros de um fracasso de liderança e de consenso”. Para Afako, sem uma intervenção imediata e coordenada da região, o Sudão do Sul corre o risco de regressar a uma guerra total, com consequências humanas inimagináveis.

Justiça adiada é justiça negada
Mais de 10 anos após o início do conflito, as vítimas sul-sudanesas ainda aguardam medidas credíveis de justiça e reparação. A Comissão reiterou a urgência de estabelecer os mecanismos de justiça de transição previstos no Acordo Revitalizado de 2018, especialmente o Tribunal Híbrido para o Sudão do Sul, cujo processo continua bloqueado apesar das repetidas resoluções do Conselho de Paz e Segurança da UA.

Yasmin Sooka, presidente da Comissão, declarou que “mais do que nunca, a justiça é essencial”. Segundo ela, as promessas feitas às vítimas permanecem incumpridas, sendo fundamental o Tribunal Híbrido passar do papel à ação concreta. Para a presidente da Comissão, a “União Africana tem o dever moral e político de garantir um processo de justiça que fortaleça o Estado de direito e a coesão social no país”.

Deslocamento em massa e crise regional
Os combates renovados em 2025 provocaram a fuga de cerca de 300 mil pessoas do Sudão do Sul: para o Sudão 148 mil; para a Etiópia 50 mil; para o Uganda 50 mil; para a República Democrática do Congo 30 mil e para o Quénia 25 mil.

No total, mais de 2,5 milhões de refugiados sul-sudaneses encontram-se atualmente acolhidos na região. Internamente, 2 milhões de pessoas permanecem deslocadas, enquanto o país ainda abriga 560 mil refugiados que fogem da guerra no Sudão. As mulheres e crianças continuam a ser as mais afetadas, enfrentando riscos de violência, fome e exploração.

Proteção das crianças
A crise no Sudão vizinho também evidencia a urgência de proteger civis e garantir responsabilização. Na manhã de 11 de outubro, pelo menos 17 crianças, incluindo um recém-nascido de sete dias, foram mortas num ataque ao Centro de Deslocados de Dar al-Arqam, em Al Fasher, Darfur do Norte, segundo o Unicef. Outras 21 crianças ficaram feridas.

A diretora executiva do Unicef, Catherine Russell, classificou o ataque como “um ultraje” e “uma violação grave dos direitos das crianças”.

A cidade de Al Fasher, sitiada pelas Forças de Apoio Rápido, RSF na sigla em inglês, há mais de 500 dias, enfrenta escassez extrema de alimentos, água e assistência médica.

O Unicef continua a exigir cessação imediata das hostilidades, respeito ao direito internacional humanitário, acesso humanitário seguro e responsabilização dos autores de ataques contra civis.

ONU e União Africana devem agir agora
Com membros do Conselho de Paz e Segurança da UA e do Conselho de Segurança da ONU reunidos esta semana em Addis Abeba, a Comissão apelou a ações decisivas e coordenadas para travar a escalada da crise sul-sudanesa.

O apelo central é claro: colocar a justiça e a responsabilização no centro das deliberações, incluindo o estabelecimento imediato do Tribunal Híbrido.

Sooka afirmou que acrise que se desenrola no Sudão do Sul é resultado de “escolhas deliberadas feitas pelos seus líderes, que colocaram os próprios interesses acima dos do seu povo”.

A presidente da Comissão declarou por fim que a comunidade internacional deve agir agora para garantir que o Sudão do Sul não mergulhe novamente no caos, mas siga um caminho de paz, dignidade e justiça.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UN News.

Posted on

President Ramaphosa extends SIU probe into NLC

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed an amendment to the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) proclamation, broadening the scope of the Special Investigating Unit’s (SIU) ongoing investigation into the affairs of the commission.

The extension has been extended to include procurement contracts and extends for a five-year investigation period. 

In a statement on Monday, the SIU said Proclamation R293 of 2025 amends the original investigation mandate (Proclamation R. 32 of 2020) in two ways.

These are: 
•    It extends the investigation’s timeframe, allowing the SIU to probe allegations of serious maladministration from the inception of the original proclamation in November 2020 up to 10 October 2025, effectively extending the investigation period by five years.
•    It adds 21 new categories of procurement and contracting to the investigation. These include a wide range of services in which it is alleged that procurement processes were flouted, and public funds were misused.

The appointment of a panel of attorneys’ firms and legal practitioners, in terms of Bid NLC/2020-05, and the appointment of a service provider for a Comprehensive Employee Wellness Programme for the Employees of the NLC, in terms of RFP/2021-15, are among the newly added matters under investigation.

The amendment is a result of the allegations the SIU received during its investigation and the investigation’s findings, which necessitated an extension of the scope and time.

The initial investigation was divided into three phases, valued at approximately R2 billion. The SIU is concluding the third phase and will proceed with civil litigation. 

In addition, the following added matters under investigation include, but are not limited to the procurement of or contracting for:
•    The extension of the appointment of Metrofile for the off-site storage of documents and delivery thereof from 1 January 2021 to 31 March 2021.
•    The appointment of a service provider for the Procurement of Electronic Board Pack in terms of RFP/2020-06, RFQ NLC/2019-006 and Bid NLC 2020-006.
•    The appointment of a service provider for advertorial on Back to Basics Magazine.
•    Submission for approval: deviation from the normal procurement process, Independent Media, Arena Holdings, Media 24.
•    An education and awareness broadcast campaign related to the purchase order dated 29 October 2020; and
•    accommodation and travel services rendered by Regency Apartment Hotel and Ndila Transfers.

“The SIU is now authorised to investigate whether the procurement of, or contracting for, these services was conducted in a manner that was not fair, equitable, transparent, competitive, or cost- effective, as well as contrary to applicable legislation, Treasury instructions, or the NLC’s own policies and procedures.”

The unit added that the investigation will also cover any related unauthorised, irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the NLC or the State. 

In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

Under the SIU Act, the SIU is also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration.

Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU is committed to identifying systemic failures and recommending measures to prevent future losses. –SAnews.gov.za