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NHLS hosts SA’s leading conference on pathology and diagnostics

Source: Government of South Africa

The Pathology Research and Development Congress (PathReD) 2025, South Africa’s leading conference on pathology and diagnostics, is currently taking place at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Gauteng.

More than just a scientific meeting, the congress emphasises the importance of diagnostics as a cornerstone of health equity and a fundamental component of universal health coverage.

Under the theme: ‘Enriching Health through Research’, and focusing on “Bridging the Gap: Pathology in Resource-Limited Settings,” PathReD 2025 will feature over 25 distinguished speakers.

Included are the CEO of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Professor Koleka Mlisana, the Swiss microbiologist, Professor Adrian Egli, and the NHLS Executive Manager for Academic Affairs, Research, and Quality Assurance, Professor Elise Schapkaitz. 

The congress will conclude on Sunday, uniting scientists, pathologists, policymakers, innovators and healthcare professionals to discuss advancements in medical technologies, precision diagnostics, and practical solutions for urban and rural communities.

The programme includes interactive workshops, panel discussions, and expert-led presentations that address the most pressing challenges in laboratory medicine and patient care.

At PathReD 2025, the NHLS will demonstrate its commitment to promoting health equity, minimising inequalities, and ensuring that every South African has access to timely, high-quality diagnostics. 

“Every test matters and every step counts, from laboratories to hospital wards, bringing the country one step closer to a time when health is a right rather than a privilege.”

The NHLS, as the host, has reinforced its vision of becoming a centre of excellence in laboratory and clinical medicine. Its mission is to provide patient-centred services through innovation, collaboration, and equity. – SAnews.gov.za.

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Eskom veteran Monde Bala appointed National Transmission Company SA CEO

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Long serving Eskom official, Monde Bala, has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the power utility’s transmission arm, the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA).

Bala has been serving as the entity’s interim CEO for the past two months and was appointed following a rigorous recruitment process.

NTCSA board chairperson, Priscillah Mabelane, expressed the board’s confidence in Bala’s ability to lead it “into its next chapter”.

“He brings a wealth of experience and insight to the role, and we look forward to continuing our work with him and the executive team as we drive forward our strategic deliverables,” Mabelane said.

Bala brings some 27 years’ experience in the energy sector to the NTCSA and was serving as Eskom Group Executive for Distribution prior to his appointment.

He also served in various senior positions within the power utility.

“Mr Bala is uniquely positioned to guide the NTCSA as it continues to deliver on its mandate of providing reliable, fair, and affordable access to the electricity grid and market, supporting sustainable and inclusive economic growth. His appointment marks a significant milestone in accelerating the development of a more competitive and efficient electricity market that benefits all South Africans.

“Mr Bala’s leadership will be instrumental in accelerating the execution of the NTCSA’s strategy, which includes attracting investment into the transmission grid through the implementation of the Transmission Development Plan [TDP], advancing operational unbundling in line with legislative requirements, and fostering a fair and competitive electricity market.

“He holds a BSc in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cape Town and a Master of Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand. The NTCSA welcomes Mr Bala’s appointment and looks forward to his leadership in shaping the future of South Africa’s energy landscape,” the NTCSA said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Qatar Strongly Condemns Israeli Interception of Global Sumud Flotilla

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – 2 October 2025

The State of Qatar strongly condemns the interception by Israeli occupation forces of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, and describes the move as a flagrant violation of international law and a threat to maritime safety and freedom of navigation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the need to ensure the safety of all participants aboard the Flotilla and calls for their immediate release. The Ministry also urges the launch of an urgent investigation into the incident and demands that those responsible be held accountable.

The Ministry reiterates Qatar’s call on the international community to uphold its moral and legal responsibilities by taking decisive action against the continued violations of international humanitarian law by the Israeli occupation authorities. The Ministry further stresses the importance of ensuring the safe, unimpeded, and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid to all areas of the Gaza Strip.

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Bantu Gazette Launches Flagship Magazine Focused on African Perspective, Progress and Voice

Source: APO

Bantu Gazette (www.BantuGazette.com), a new quarterly publication committed to advancing African perspectives on politics, culture, and economic transformation, has officially launched (https://apo-opa.co/4nStYEk). The magazine introduces a platform that presents Africa’s stories through the voices of those who live them.

Grounded in the belief that narrative power must be anchored on African soil, Bantu Gazette explores how the continent defines its own direction through stories told by Africans themselves. It blends traditional storytelling with modern policy insight, offering thoughtful engagement with the forces shaping African societies. From Lagos to Johannesburg, Marrakech to Lilongwe, Addis Ababa to Dakar, and Douala to Gaborone, the magazine reflects a wide regional lens.

“Who tells Africa’s story?” asks Editorial Director Felix Tih in the inaugural issue. He highlights a quote from Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe that says, “If you don’t like someone’s story, write your own.”

“This wisdom guides everything we do,” Tih explains. “As Africans, we shape our future by documenting our challenges, celebrating our breakthroughs, and creating space for honest self-reflection.”

The first issue presents perspectives on energy innovation, cross-border trade, education reform, and the growing influence of African youth on the global stage. Highlights include a feature on digital sovereignty, profiles of women driving progress in the energy sector, and a deep look into Ethiopia’s evolving political landscape. Readers will also find stories of young leaders redefining business, technology, and policy across the continent.

Bantu Gazette is the editorial wing of Bantu Agency, a communications firm that partners with institutions and changemakers across Africa to shape compelling narratives. In collaboration with journalists, researchers, and creatives from more than 12 countries, the magazine creates space for thoughtful reflection and strategic storytelling.

Published in both print and digital formats, future editions will include multilingual content in English and French. Thematic issues will spotlight diaspora networks, infrastructure, urban innovation, intracontinental trade, artificial intelligence and climate resilience. Distribution through cultural centers, academic institutions, and professional networks will help expand access to readers throughout the continent and beyond.

Youth leadership is central to the magazine’s voice. Each issue combines longform journalism with strategic insight, creative work, and contributions from rising thinkers across sectors.

“We are building a publication that reflects the complexity of African societies and the brilliance of African ideas,” said Tih. “Bantu Gazette is a space for those who shape, question, and reimagine the future, guided by experience, grounded in truth, and driven by vision.”

Bantu Gazette is available at https://apo-opa.co/4nStYEk. The publication welcomes contributions from writers, researchers, and creatives committed to advancing Africa’s voice in global dialogue.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Bantu Gazette.

Contact:
Felix Tih
Editorial Director
Email: ftih@bantugazette.com
WhatsApp: +41 77 216 33 47

Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4pRDTfa
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3KD7nxj
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3VNp5Rb
X: https://apo-opa.co/4318fSG

About Bantu Gazette:
Bantu Gazette is a continental editorial platform that champions Africa’s development, culture, and sovereignty. It features stories of policy, people, and progress, offering space for intellectual, creative, and institutional voices shaping the continent’s future. The magazine supports Africa’s sustainable development through transformative communication.

Website: www.BantuGazette.com

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Network International et Magnati fusionnent pour créer la fintech leader du Moyen-Orient et de l’Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Network International (www.Network.ae), l’une des principales fintechs au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique (MOA), et Magnati, l’un des principaux fournisseurs de solutions de paiement aux Émirats Arabes Unis, annoncent aujourd’hui l’achèvement de leur fusion stratégique sous la propriété d’un consortium dirigé par Brookfield. 

L’entité fusionnée opérera sous le nom de Network International LLC. Avec une gamme étendue de solutions, allant des paiements numériques et des informations basées sur les données aux prêts aux PME et à la prévention antifraude, l’entité fusionnée est très bien positionnée pour stimuler l’innovation à grande échelle et soutenir l’inclusion financière dans toute la région. La société continuera de collaborer avec les gouvernements pour accélérer la transformation numérique et élargir l’accès aux services financiers dans l’ensemble de la région MOA. 

Hadi Badri, président du conseil d’administration, Network International, déclare : « Cette fusion crée un champion de la fintech pour la région du Moyen-Orient et de l’Afrique, né localement aux ÉAU, avec des possibilités attrayantes de croissance et d’innovation. La plateforme combinée de Network International et de Magnati permettra aux commerçants locaux de prospérer dans l’une des régions les plus dynamiques au monde pour les technologies financières ».  

Murat Cagri Suzer, CEO du groupe, Network International, déclare : « En unissant deux leaders dotés d’une expertise et de capacités régionales approfondies, nous créons une plateforme fintech dotée de la portée, de la technologie et des talents nécessaires pour façonner l’avenir du commerce numérique dans la région. Ensemble, nous apportons encore plus de valeur à nos clients et partenaires grâce à des offres de produits diversifiées, à une innovation accélérée, des données et des informations optimisées et à une présence géographique renforcée ». 

L’intégration des deux entreprises se fera de manière progressive, et leurs marques continuent pour l’instant de coexister.  

Distribué par APO Group pour Network International.

À propos de Network International:
Network International est la principale fintech au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique. Notre objectif est de soutenir les entreprises et les économies à se développer en simplifiant les paiements et le commerce. Nous servons un écosystème diversifié de banques, de fintechs, de sociétés de télécommunications, de commerçants, de gouvernements et d’acteurs du secteur public dans plus de 50 pays, en fournissant des technologies innovantes, des services à valeur ajoutée et une expertise approfondie des systèmes et infrastructures de paiement. Les 3 000 membres de notre équipe travaillent en étroite collaboration avec 250 institutions financières et 240 000 commerçants pour fournir des solutions de paiement et de fintech éprouvées, évolutives et prêtes pour l’avenir dans toute la région. 

À propos de Magnati: 
Magnati est un chef de file régional des solutions de paiement axées sur l’acquisition directe, de traitement des transactions pour les émetteurs et les acquéreurs. Magnati fournit aux gouvernements, commerçants et clients institutionnels une plateforme de paiement intelligente, utilisant des technologies de dernière génération pour offrir des expériences améliorées et une efficacité accrue. 

L’expertise et les relations de Magnati, dont le siège se situe à Abou Dabi, constituent une plateforme permettant à l’entreprise d’attirer des partenaires internationaux tout en établissant une nouvelle norme en matière d’innovation et d’exécution dans le secteur des paiements. 

Rendez-vous sur www.Magnati.com pour de plus amples renseignements. 

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Network International and Magnati merge to create the leading fintech across the Middle East & Africa

Source: APO – Report:

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Network International (www.Network.ae), a leading fintech company across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Magnati, a leading payment solution provider in the UAE, today announced the completion of their strategic merger under the ownership of a Brookfield-led consortium.  

The merged entity will operate under the name Network International LLC.  With an expanded suite of solutions, ranging from digital payments and data-driven insights to SME lending and advanced fraud prevention, the merged entity is well-placed to drive innovation, scale, and financial inclusion across the region. The company will continue to collaborate with governments to accelerate digital transformation and expand access to financial services throughout MEA. 

Hadi Badri, Chairman of the Board, Network International, said, “This merger creates a UAE homegrown fintech champion for the Middle East and Africa region with attractive opportunities for growth and innovation. The combined platform of Network International and Magnati will empower local merchants to thrive in one of the world’s most dynamic fintech regions.”  

Murat Cagri Suzer, Group CEO of Network International, said, “By uniting two leaders with deep regional expertise and capabilities, we are creating a fintech platform with the scale, technology, and talent to shape the future of digital commerce across the region. Together, we bring even greater value to our clients and partners through diverse product offerings, faster innovation, enhanced data and insights, and a stronger geographic footprint.”  

The integration of both businesses will take place in a phased manner, and their brands will continue to co-exist for the time being.    

– on behalf of Network International.

Media Contacts:
Corporate Communications 
Network International 
Dubai, UAE 
Tel: +971 4 303 2431 
Email: lambert.espedido@network.global 

Carole Helou 
Burson, UAE 
Tel: 971-4-4507600;
Fax: 971-4-4358040 
Email: carole.helou@bursonglobal.com  

About Network International:
Network International is the Middle East and Africa’s leading fintech company. Our purpose is to help businesses and economies grow by simplifying payments and commerce. We serve a diverse ecosystem of banks, fintechs, telcos, merchants, governments and public sector entities spanning 50+ countries – empowering our partners with innovative technology, value-added services, and deep expertise in payment systems and infrastructure. Our 3,000+ team members on the ground work closely with 250+ financial institutions and 240,000+ merchants to deliver reliable, scalable, and future-ready payment and fintech solutions across the region. 

About Magnati: 
Magnati is a regional leader in the payment solutions industry focused on direct acquiring, issuer processing, and acquiring processing. Magnati provides government, merchant, and institutional clients with an intelligent payments platform, using next-generation technology to deliver improved experiences and increased efficiency. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Magnati’s expertise and relationships provide a platform for the company to attract international partners while setting a new standard for innovation and delivery in the payments industry. 

Visit www.Magnati.com for more information. 

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Nigeria Promotes Multi-Pillar Mining Sector Expansion Strategy at African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO – Report:

Nigeria unveiled a multi-pillar mining sector expansion and beneficiation strategy at African Mining Week (AMW) 2025, aimed at shifting the country from exporting raw minerals to producing value-added products.

Presenting the plan, Yusuf Farouk Yabo, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Mines, said the strategy is designed to unlock Nigeria’s mineral wealth while driving industrialization and regional integration.

The first pillar focuses on beneficiation and value addition, with Nigeria planning to establish processing plants for rare earth minerals and promote regional infrastructure integration.

“We are moving from raw material suppliers to producers of value-added products. For too long, we have exported raw minerals for processing elsewhere, and the benefits have not reached our people. Today we are rich in resources yet poor in outcomes,” Yabo noted.

The second pillar emphasizes energy infrastructure development to ensure affordable and reliable power for mining operations.

“No industrialization can thrive without secure power. The AfCFTA provides a chance to connect markets and industries through strong infrastructure linkages,” Yabo said.

The third pillar highlights technology transfer and skills development, with a focus on youth empowerment.

“Youth training must be a cornerstone of industry growth. Young people are our greatest assets, not a burden. With the right skills, they will build responsible and sustainable mining,” he added.

The fourth pillar centers on policy and investment alignment across Africa, with Nigeria reforming regulations, introducing innovative de-risking tools and strengthening partnerships to harmonize infrastructure and policy frameworks.

“Our strategy is not just about mining for mining’s sake; it is about justice, technology, and building regional value chains,” Yabo emphasized.

Nigeria is also reworking inactive and dormant mining licenses, advancing a national critical minerals strategy and providing incentives for local beneficiation projects.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Afreximbank célèbre la cinquième édition d’Afreximbank TV

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Afreximbank TV, une chaîne de télévision numérique détenue et gérée à 100 % par la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), a marqué sa cinquième édition par une couverture dédiée de la Foire commerciale intra-africaine 2025 (IATF2025) qui s’est tenue à Alger (Algérie).

Depuis son lancement en novembre 2023, la chaîne de télévision virtuelle a vu son audience augmenter de manière constante, avec plus de 14,1 millions de vues et 324 200 heures de visionnage. La chaîne compte actuellement environ un demi-million d’abonnés, suivis en moyenne par 272 800 personnes chaque mois. Ses émissions ont une portée mondiale, le Kenya, l’Algérie, le Nigéria, le Ghana et la Tanzanie figurant parmi ses cinq principaux marchés.

Lors de sa première édition, Afreximbank TV avait couvert l’IATF2023 au Caire, en Égypte. Depuis, Afreximbank TV a diffusé une variété de contenus approfondis, diversifiés et d’actualité, composés d’interviews avec des leaders d’opinion, des témoignages vidéo courts et longs, la couverture d’événements phares ainsi que des discussions. Le contenu est diffusé gratuitement en anglais et en français.

« Grâce à Afreximbank TV, nous tirons parti de la puissance de la narration pour non seulement amplifier les interventions essentielles d’Afreximbank et leur impact sur le développement, mais aussi pour conduire les débats sur la transformation du commerce en Afrique. Alors que l’Afrique globale œuvre pour un avenir plus prospère et interconnecté, nous devons nous approprier et façonner notre récit à l’échelle mondiale », a déclaré Mme Anne Ezeh, Directrice de la Communication et des Événements d’Afreximbank.

Mme Ezeh a ajouté qu’Afreximbank TV reste déterminée à mettre en valeur les capacités, les atouts, l’unicité, la prospérité naissante de l’Afrique ainsi que sa contribution aux chaînes de valeur mondiales.

Plus de cinq vidéos de la chaîne ont dépassé le million de vues, à savoir : CANEX Music Factory : Promouvoir les talents africains ; GDIZ : Tisser un avenir prometteur dans l’industrie textile du Bénin ; Eva’s Coffee : Mettre en valeur ses succès ; PAPSS : Connecter le continent ; et Oando : Autonomiser les femmes leaders. Le podcast le plus regardé sur la chaîne porte sur les Assemblées annuelles d’Afreximbank 2025 [Afreximbank Annual Meetings 2025], avec plus de 1,2 millions de vues et 30 700 heures de visionnage.

Au cours de l’IATF2025, Afreximbank TV a assuré la couverture en direct des différentes séances, en plus d’entretiens de haut niveau avec des dirigeants, dont S.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, Président du Conseil consultatif de l’IATF et ancien Président de la République fédérale du Nigeria ; S.E. Wamkele Mene, Secrétaire général de la ZLECAf, entre autres personnalités.

L’IATF 2025, qui a été tenue du 4 au 10 septembre, a accueilli 2148 exposants et plus de 112 000 visiteurs venus de 132 pays. L’évènement continental d’une semaine s’est achevé sur une note particulièrement positive avec la signature de transactions commerciales et d’investissements d’une valeur de 48,3 milliards de dollars US.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez consulter le site : www.IntrAfricanTradeFair.com

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact presse :
media@intrafricatradefair.com
press@afreximbank.com

À propos de la Foire commerciale intra-africaine :
Organisée par la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank), la Commission de l’Union africaine (CUA) et le Secrétariat de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf), la Foire commerciale intra-africaine vise à fournir une plate-forme unique pour faciliter l’échange d’informations sur le commerce et l’investissement afin de soutenir le développement du commerce et de l’investissement intra-africains, en particulier dans le contexte de la mise en œuvre de l’Accord sur la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf). La Foire commerciale intra-africaine réunit les acteurs continentaux et internationaux afin qu’ils présentent et exposent leurs biens et services, tout en explorant les opportunités d’affaires et d’investissement sur le continent. L’IATF offre en outre une plateforme pour partager des informations sur le commerce, les investissements et le marché avec les parties prenantes et permet aux participants d’examiner et d’identifier des solutions aux difficultés auxquelles sont confrontés le commerce et l’investissement intra-africain. Outre les participants africains, la foire commerciale est ouverte aux entreprises et aux investisseurs de pays non africains qui souhaitent faire des affaires en Afrique et soutenir sa transformation grâce à l’industrialisation et au développement des exportations

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SA calls for restraint amid Global Sumud Flotilla’s Gaza aid mission

Source: Government of South Africa

SA calls for restraint amid Global Sumud Flotilla’s Gaza aid mission

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation is closely monitoring the situation regarding the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), which is currently navigating a high-risk area in the Mediterranean Sea.

Recent reports indicate that the Gaza-bound aid flotilla has many ships still “sailing strong” toward the Palestinian territory on Thursday, despite interceptions by Israeli naval forces.

The GSF is an international initiative led by civil society, launched in June this year. The movement aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, raise awareness about the urgent needs of the Palestinian people, and emphasise the necessity of ending the conflict in Gaza.

“We note with grave concern the reports of unidentified drone activity in the vicinity of the civilian vessels. 

“South Africa wishes to reiterate, in the strongest terms, its call for all actors to adhere strictly to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and relevant international humanitarian law principles.  

“We urge utmost restraint and caution against any unilateral actions that could escalate the situation or endanger human life,” the statement read. 

The department said the safety, security, and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance. 

“Any military engagement with or forceful detention of these vessels in international waters would constitute a grave breach of international legal norms and fundamental human rights. 

“It must be underscored that the flotilla, a civilian-led initiative, embarked upon a peaceful and humanitarian mission. Its participants aim to draw attention to the severe and urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people in Gaza and to deliver vital aid to alleviate the widespread suffering.” 

South Africa has once again reiterated its profound concern over the devastating humanitarian conditions in Gaza. 

The country believes that the Palestinian civilian population requires immediate protection and sustained humanitarian assistance to counter the catastrophic levels of food insecurity and the threat of famine. 

“We call upon the international community and all relevant parties to uphold their obligations under international law and to ensure the safe and unimpeded passage of humanitarian missions.” – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Gabisile

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President Ramaphosa calls for immediate release of Global Sumud Flotilla abductees

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on the Government of the State of Israel to release South Africans and other nationals abducted as part of Israeli authorities’ interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla.

The flotilla comprises humanitarian vessels seeking to deliver aid to Gaza.

President Ramaphosa says the interception in international waters off the coast of Gaza reinforces Israel’s continued violation of international law and infliction of suffering, including starvation, on the Palestinian people.

South Africans who were on board the flotilla include Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner and Reaaz Moolla, while confirmation is pending on the abduction of Zaheera Soomar, Fatima Hendricks and Carrie Shelver.

President Ramaphosa said: “The interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla is another grave offence by Israel of global solidarity and sentiment that is aimed at relieving suffering in Gaza and advancing peace in the region.

“On behalf of our Government and nation, I call on Israel to immediately release the South Africans abducted in international waters, and to release other nationals who have tried to reach Gaza with humanitarian aid.

“The interception of the flotilla in international waters is contrary to international law and violates the sovereignty of every nation whose flag was flown on the dozens of vessels in the flotilla.

“This action also violates an International Court of Justice injunction that humanitarian aid must be allowed to flow unimpeded.

“South Africa calls on Israel to ensure that the life-saving cargo transported by this flotilla reaches the people of Gaza, as the flotilla represents solidarity with Gaza, not confrontation with Israel.

“South Africa supports the call by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for Israel to urgently lift the blockade on Gaza and allow the entry of life-saving material through all means possible.

“My thoughts are with all of the abductees and their families and it is my expectation that Israel will release the human rights activists as these abductions serve no purpose in the context of efforts to secure peace in the Middle East.”

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria