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President Ramaphosa spearheads SA’s UN General Assembly delegation

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in New York to lead South Africa’s delegation during the High-Level Segment of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

The segment, held throughout this week, coincides with the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter and is held under the theme: ‘Better together: 80 Years and more for peace, development and human rights’.

The President is accompanied by the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau; Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga; Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George; Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa; Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and the Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele.

“The President will [today]… participate in a Two-State Solution High-Level Meeting convened and co-chaired by His Excellency President Emmanuel Macron of France and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, HRH, Faisal bin Al Saud.  The meeting will reaffirm international commitments to the two-state solution and seek to mobilise support for its implementation.

“In championing robust multilateralism, peaceful resolution of conflicts, and the unwavering protection of human rights for all, the President will address the General Debate on Tuesday. He will also carry a message from the Global South, amplified by South Africa’s current role as Chair of the G20,” a statement by the Presidency on Monday read.

According to the statement, the segments provide an opportunity for President Ramaphosa to engage on issues including the genocide in Gaza, the conflicts in Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo and the war in Ukraine and “other geopolitical tensions”.

“South Africa will leverage its proven reputation as a trusted mediator to build bridges between opposing sides and advocate for dialogue over discord,” the Presidency said.

Sustainable development

On Wednesday, the President will take part in the Biennial Summit for Sustainable, Inclusive and Resilient Global Economy, convened and chaired by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

“The forum provides an opportunity for leaders to assess progress, and advance practical solutions to mobilise global resources and strengthen global economic governance in support of the UN 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs].

“Building on its G20 mandate to shape global economic solutions, South Africa will argue forcefully for a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient global economy. The delegation will spotlight the disproportionate impact of current global challenges on developing nations and push for enhanced international cooperation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals,” the Presidency added.

The President will also convene a high-level meeting on Recommitting to Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health and Rights in his capacity as Chair of the Global Leaders Network on Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health.

“The meeting will be co-chaired by His Excellency Boko Duma of the Republic of Botswana and Rt. Hon. Ms Helen Clark, Former Prime Minister of New Zealand and Board Chair of Partnerships for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH).

“The High-Level meeting presents a powerful opportunity for global advocacy, agenda setting, and cross-sectoral engagement at the highest level of Heads of State and Government to elevate women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health as a foundation for peace, security, and sustainable developments,” the statement read.

Furthermore, President Ramaphosa will participate in a Special High-level Event on Climate Action.

“[The event will] be convened and co-chaired by Secretary General Guterres and His Excellency President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of the Federative Republic of Brazil.

“This event brings together Heads of State and Government, business and civil society, to drive action across mitigation, adaptation, finances and information integrity and other critical matters, in line with Paris Agreement and COP30 priorities,” the Presidency said.

Trade and foreign relations

To boost South Africa’s economic growth drive, the President will engage the private sector.

“In reaffirming South Africa’s commitment as strategic economic partner focusing on trade relations, investment, and collaboration, the President will on the margins of UNGA engage with the private sector during the Trade and Investment Executive Dialogue hosted by the (dtic) in collaboration with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“The President will also meet with several leading US Companies as part of the investment drive. The United States has long been a strategic partner for South Africa, ranking among country’s top five export destinations accounting for 7.5% of our global exports. The US also features as one the country’s largest sources of foreign direct investment,” the Presidency statement read.

Furthermore, President Ramaphosa will lead the High-Level opening segment of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

“G20 plays a pivotal role in contributing to UN efforts aimed at creating an economically prosperous world that contributes towards lasting global peace.

“President will also hold bilateral talks with Heads of State and Government attending the UNGA High-Level week,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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TeKnowledge Unveils Artificial intelligence (AI)-Ready Security Suite to Redefine Cyber Resilience in the Age of AI

Source: APO – Report:

TeKnowledge (https://TeKnowledge.com/) today announced the launch of its new AI-Ready Security Suite, a unique managed security offering built from the ground up to help enterprises secure the next wave of generative AI adoption. The suite is specially designed for large organizations that are moving fast with AI innovation but struggling to keep security in step.

Generative AI has created a vast new attack surface. Organizations now face threats like prompt injection and data leakage. They also face risks hidden deep in the AI supply chain – compromised datasets, models, third-party tools and more. Traditional security approaches were simply not built to handle these challenges. At the same time, most enterprises lack the in-house expertise to defend their AI environments. This gap between accelerating AI adoption and limited security skillset leaves businesses exposed at scale.

TeKnowledge’s new offering delivers the missing expertise, services, and operational resilience needed to close that gap. It is structured around three pillars: 

  • Assess – Penetration testing, adversarial simulations, and AI-specific security assessments to expose hidden risks. 
  • Implement – Secure-by-design cloud migration, compliance management, and SOC management built for AI workloads. 
  • Optimize – AI-aware training, intelligent monitoring, and secure customer experience solutions that ensure protection scales with adoption.

AI-ready means business-ready. TeKnowledge empowers enterprises to tackle today’s most complex cybersecurity challenges with comprehensive managed services, AI-driven solutions, a zero trust foundation, and proven Microsoft expertise.

“AI is rapidly transforming every part of business, and security has to evolve just as quickly,” said Aileen Allkins, President and CEO, TeKnowledge. “Enterprises don’t need more tools, they need trusted partners who can bring clarity, resilience, and real protection to this new era. That’s what TeKnowledge is set to deliver.”

TeKnowledge’s AI-Ready Security Suite is available immediately as a modular service suite. Each component can be deployed independently or as part of a comprehensive managed security engagement, enabling CISOs and security leaders to both lower risk and increase control as AI adoption expands.

– on behalf of TeKnowledge.

Media & Analysts Contact:   
Iman Ghorayeb 
iman.ghorayeb@teknowledge.com

About TeKnowledge:
Founded in 2010, TeKnowledge provides expert technology services for AI, Customer Experience and Cyber Security that empower businesses and governments through technology. With a deep expertise, strong customer and people centric focus, and strategic partnerships, TeKnowledge has grown organically into a trusted partner for enterprises and governments worldwide across 19+ global hubs. Through its comprehensive services approach—spanning Advisory & Professional Services, Skilling & Adoption and  Managed Services—TeKnowledge ensures seamless technology adoption and continuous progress for its customers. Please visit https://TeKnowledge.com.  

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) meets Nigeria First Lady & 13 First Ladies of Africa at 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit to discuss the strategy to reshape patientcare and support girl education in Africa and beyond

Source: APO – Report:

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 recently. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative and H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign along with First Ladies of Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Maldives, Mozambique, São Tomé & Príncipe, Senegal, and Zimbabwe.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej emphasized, “I am happy to welcome my dear sister, H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we recently appointed her as the Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother. We discussed our joint programs to transform patient care landscape and build healthcare capacity by providing scholarships for local Nigerian doctors. I am proud to share that till now we have provided 63 scholarships for local Nigerian doctors in many critical and underserved specialties like Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Care, Women’s Health, Oncology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Cardiology and Obesity & Weight Management, Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Critical Care, Psychiatry, Care for Older Person and Pain Management. Together, we will transform the future of patient care in Nigeria.”

H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” said, “I am honored to be appointed as the Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother, and I deeply value our meaningful partnership with Merck Foundation and also appreciate all their programs. I am particularly excited about Educating Linda Program through which we are sponsoring the education of 20 high performing but underprivileged girls till they graduate. I firmly believe in empowering girls through education, as it plays a crucial role in building stronger and healthier nations—this is one of the key objectives of my office’s strategy.

Moreover, I am happy that 63 scholarships for local Nigerian doctors in many critical and underserved specialties, we will continue to enroll more doctors for various specialties.

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Nigeria & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4pxn6hr

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.co/4nI6txW

On day 2 of the Summit, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African and Asian First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.

Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/4mpIna6

Summary of 63 scholarships provided for Nigerian doctors:

  • 8 Scholarships provided for Fertility, Embryology and one year diploma and two-year master degree in Sexual and Reproductive Care and Women’s Health. These scholarships will play a vital role in enhancing women’s healthcare overall, with a particular focus on fertility and reproductive care. Moreover, they will significantly contribute to our mission of empowering infertile women and supporting couples on their journey to building happy and fulfilling families.
  • 39 scholarships provided for our young doctors from different provinces for Oncology Research and one year diploma and two-year master degree of Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Cardiology and Obesity & Weight Management, under the Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes Blue Points Program, which will equip the doctors to establish diabetes and hypertension clinics within their health centers or hospitals, with the goal of preventing and managing these conditions in their communities.
  • 16 scholarships have been provided for Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Critical Care, Psychiatry, Care for Older Person and Pain Management.

“Merck Foundation has overall provided 2280 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties. Our vision is that everyone can lead healthy and happy life”, said Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Nigeria for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Nigeria, Merck Foundation is launching seven children’s storybooks, addressing various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV and diabetes & hypertension awareness.

The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation:  Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/46LNSes), X (https://apo-opa.co/46ve2ky), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/46cuozD), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3K3Khjk).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3IgjYG1), X (https://apo-opa.co/4nI6zpi), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4ptGDiM), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/46LNVa8).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4mJ0Rmh

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

• 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa

• 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese

• 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.

• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community

• 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies

  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers.

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Additional Images:
https://apo-opa.co/4n9FtHH

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4nI6Dp2
X: https://apo-opa.co/4pwGACM
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/46JsK8F
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Kfebkt
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4pxDGhg
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/3IyCN7n
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/46pCP9t

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/46LNSes), X (https://apo-opa.co/46ve2ky), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/46cuozD), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3K3Khjk), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4muIvoT) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/46s7Qd7).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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CEO da Fundação Merck mantém encontro com a Primeira-Dama da Nigéria e 13 Primeiras-Damas da África na 7ª edição da Cimeira da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck para discutir a estratégia de reformulação do atendimento ao paciente e apoiar a educação de meninas em África e em outros lugares

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha, realizou a 7ª Edição da Cimeira da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck – MFFLI 2025 recentemente. A Cimeira foi aberta pelo Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Presidente do Conselho de Curadores da Fundação Merck, e Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck & Presidente da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck e por S. Exª. Senadora OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Primeira-Dama da República da Nigéria e Embaixadora da Fundaçãpo Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe”, bem como pelas Primeiras-Damas de Angola, Cabo Verde, Crepública Centro Africana, Gabão, da Gâmbia, Gana, Quénia, Libéria, Maldivas, Moçambique, São Tomé & Príncipe, Senegal e Zimbabwe.

A Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej enfatizou: “Tenho o prazer de acolher a minha querida irmã, Sua Excelência a Senadora OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Primeira-Dama da República Federal da Nigéria, que recentemente, nomeamos Embaixadora da Fundação Merck Mais do Que uma Mãe. Discutimos os nossos programas conjuntos para transformar o cenário de atendimento ao paciente e desenvolver a capacidade de atendimento à saúde, oferecendo bolsas de estudo para médicos nigerianos locais. Tenho orgulho de partilhar que, até o momento, oferecemos 63 bolsas de estudo para médicos nigerianos locais em muitas especialidades críticas e carentes, como Fertilidade, Embriologia, Cuidados Sexuais e Reprodutivos, Saúde da Mulher, Oncologia, Diabetes, Endocrinologia, Cardiovascular Preventiva, Cardiologia e Gestão da Obesidade e do Peso, Medicina Intensiva, Cuidados Respiratórios, Dermatologia, Reumatologia, Cuidados Intensivos, Psiquiatria, Cuidados para Idosos e Gestão da Dor. Juntos, transformaremos o futuro do atendimento ao paciente na Nigéria.

Sua Excelência, a Senadora OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Primeira-Dama da República Federal da Nigéria e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais Que uma Mãe”, disse: “Sinto-me honrada por ser nomeada Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” e saúdo ​​profundamente a nossa parceria significativa com a Fundação Merck, além de apreciar todos os seus programas. Estou particularmente entusiasmada com o Programa Educando Linda, por meio do qual patrocinamos a educação de 20 meninas de alto desempenho, porém carentes, até a formatura. Acredito firmemente no empoderamento de meninas por meio da educação, pois ela desempenha um papel crucial na construção de nações mais fortes e saudáveis ​​— este é um dos principais objectivos da estratégia do meu mandato.”

Além disso, estou feliz que com 63 bolsas de estudo para médicos nigerianos locais em muitas especialidades críticas e carentes, continuaremos a matricular mais médicos para diversas especialidades.

Assista ao discurso da Primeira Dama da Nigéria e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck Mais do Que uma Mãe durante a Cúpula da Iniciativa das Primeiras Damas da Fundação Merck 2025 aqui: https://apo-opa.co/4pxn6hr

Assista ao vídeo da CEO da Fundação Merck, Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej durante o encontro mantido com S. Exª. Senadora OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Primeira-Dama da República Federal da Nigéria e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais Que uma Mãe”: https://apo-opa.co/4nI6txW

No segundo dia da Cimeira, foi realizada a reunião do Comité da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck – MFFLI entre as Primeiras-Damas Africanas, o Presidente e a CEO da Fundação Merck, onde as Primeiras-Damas Africanas e Asiáticas compartilharam os relatórios de impacto dos programas da Fundação Merck nos seus respectivos países, bem como discutiram a futura estratégia.

Assista ao video da reunião do Comité MFFLI: https://apo-opa.co/4mpIna6

Resumo de 63 bolsas de estudo fornecidas a médicos nigerianos:

  • 8 bolsas de estudo para Fertilidade, Embriologia e um diploma de um ano e um mestrado de dois anos em Cuidados Sexuais e Reprodutivos e Saúde da Mulher. Essas bolsas desempenharão um papel vital na melhoria da saúde da mulher em geral, com foco especial em fertilidade e cuidados reprodutivos. Além disso, contribuirão significativamente para a nossa missão de empoderar mulheres com infertilidade e apoiar casais na sua jornada para construir famílias felizes e plenas.

  • -39 bolsas de estudo fornecidas aos nossos jovens médicos de diferentes províncias para Pesquisa Oncológica e diploma de um ano e mestrado de dois anos em Diabetes, Endocrinologia, Prevenção Cardiovascular, Cardiologia e Gestão da Obesidade e do Peso, no âmbito do Programa Nacional de Pontos Azuis em Diabetes da Fundação Merck, que equipará os médicos para estabelecer clínicas de diabetes e hipertensão nos seus centros de saúde ou hospitais, com o objectivo de prevenir e controlar essas condições nas suas comunidades.
  • 16 bolsas de estudo foram fornecidas para Medicina Aguda, Cuidados Respiratórios, Dermatologia, Reumatologia, Cuidados Críticos, Psiquiatria, Cuidados com os Idosos e Gestão da Dor.

“A Fundação Merck concedeu, no total, 2.280 bolsas de estudo para médicos de 52 países em 44 especialidades críticas e carentes. A nossa visão é que todos possam ter uma vida saudável e feliz”, disse a Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej.

A Fundação Merck, em parceria, com a Primeira Dama da Nigéria, também anunciou a abertura de candidaturas para os seus 8 importantes prémios de jornalismo, canção, moda, cinema, para estudantes e novos talentos com potencial nessas áreas.

Além disso, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da Nigéria, a Fundação Merck está a lançar sete livros de histórias infantis, abordando diversas questões sociais e de saúde, como o combate do estigma da infertilidade, o apoio à educação de meninas, o combate à violência do género e a conscientização sobre a diabetes e a hipertensão.

A 7ª Edição da Cimeira da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas foi stransmitida em directo nos canais das redes sociais da Fundação Merck e da Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/46LNSes), X (https://apo-opa.co/46ve2ky), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/46cuozD), e YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3K3Khjk).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3IgjYG1), X (https://apo-opa.co/4nI6zpi), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4ptGDiM), e YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/46LNVa8).

Link para a transmissão em directo no Facebook da Sessão de Abertura do Painel de Alto Nível das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação  : https://apo-opa.co/4mJ0Rmh

Fundação Merck está a transformar o cenário de atendimento ao paciente e fazer história junto com os seus parceiros em África, Ásia e além, através de:

Mais de 2.280 bolsas de estudo fornecidas pela Fundação Merck para médicos de 52 países em mais de 44 especialidades médicas críticas e carentes.  

A Fundação Merck também está a criar uma mudança cultural e quebrar o silêncio sobre uma ampla gama de questões sociais e de saúde em África e em comunidades carentes através de:

Mais de 3.700 profissionais da mídia de mais de 35 países treinados para aumentar a conscientização sobre diferentes questões sociais e de saúde

8 prémios diferentes lançados anualmente para a melhor cobertura da mídia, designers de moda, filmes e músicas

Cerca de 30 músicas abordando questões sociais e de saúde, por cantores locais de toda a África

8 livros de histórias infantis em três línguas: inglês, francês e português

7 filmes de animação de conscientização em cinco línguas: inglês, francês, português, espanhol e Swahili para conscientizar sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão e apoiar a educação de meninas.

Programa televisivo pan-africano “Nossa África da Fundação Merck” aborda questões sociais e de saúde em África através da comunidade “Moda e ARTE com Propósito”

Mais de 950 bolsas de estudo oferecidas a estudantes africanas de alto desempenho, mas carentes, para empoderá-las a concluir os seus estudos

15 canais de mídia social com mais de 8 milhões de seguidores

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Imagens Adicionais:
https://apo-opa.co/4n9FtHH

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Participe da conversa nas nossas plataformas de mídia social abaixo e deixe sua voz ser ouvida!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4nI6Dp2
X: https://apo-opa.co/4pwGACM
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/46JsK8F
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Kfebkt
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4pxDGhg
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/3IyCN7n
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Baixar a Aplicação da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/46pCP9t

Sobre Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha e visa melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e impulsionar suas vidas por meio da ciência e da tecnologia. Nossos esforços concentram-se principalmente em melhorar o acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carentes, fortalecer a capacidade em saúde e pesquisa científica, empoderar meninas na educação e empoderar pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática), com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck.  Visite www.Merck-Foundation.com para ler mais. Siga as redes sociais da Fundação Merck: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/46LNSes), X (https://apo-opa.co/46ve2ky), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/46cuozD), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3K3Khjk), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4muIvoT) e Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/46s7Qd7).

A Fundação Merck dedica-se a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde de comunidades carentes. Embora colabore com diversos parceiros, incluindo governos, para alcançar os seus objectivos humanitários, a fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Não se envolve nem apoia quaisquer actividades, eleições ou regimes políticos, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e promover o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

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SA celebrates Tourism Month to showcase heritage, wildlife, and economic benefits!

Source: Government of South Africa

By Andrea Naicker

September is Tourism Month, and it’s a great time to celebrate the joy and power of travelling the length and breadth of our beautiful country. Tourism opens the door to new cultures, people and experiences, allowing us to see the world from a different perspective.

World Tourism Day, observed on 27th September, highlights the sector’s immense impact on our societies, environments, and economies. Coinciding with this commemorative event, South Africa celebrates Tourism Month which is an ideal time to travel as spring creates a warmer and more inviting environment.

Tourism Month is also observed alongside Heritage Month. This dual celebration provides an opportunity to tell the South African story and highlight our rich history, diverse cultures, and vibrant traditions.

South Africa’s tourism sector is rich in history, natural beauty, and a wealth of indigenous species. From the ancient origins of the Cradle of Humankind, Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape and the Mapungubwe Heritage Site to the powerful stories of struggle at Robben Island and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, our heritage sites tell a story of resilience and transformation.

Our nation is also a delightful destination du e to its world-class wine routes and iconic wildlife, including the Big Five and the Little Five which are the Elephant Shrew, Antlion, Rhino Beetle, Leopard Tortoise, and Buffalo Weaver. These attractions lure local and international travellers. Between January and June this year, South Africa welcomed over five million visitors, reflecting a significant increase in both domestic and international travel.

Tourism is a powerful engine for our economy. It constitutes a significant portion of our Gross Domestic Product and boosts local economies by creating vast opportunities for vendors, tour guides, shuttle drivers, guesthouses, and travel agencies. The sector supports livelihoods and helps uplift our national economy.

It is therefore imperative that we invest in developing this sector and create further opportunities for growth. Programs like the Tourism Monitors Programme target unemployed youth (ages 18-35) with a passion for tourism, providing them with a stipend, training, and practical experience. This programme has uplifted the lives of over 6000 young people who have benefitted from it since the programme’s inception in 2017 and has significantly improved safety and security at tourist sites.

Government remains committed to empowering people in tourism through training opportunities and financial assistance for black owned enterprises. Projects such as the Tourism Equity Fund and the Tourism Transformation Fund aims to drive transformation, equity and growth in the sector.  

Our roadmap for the industry is outlined in the Tourism Sector Masterplan, which aligns with our National Development Plan (NDP) goals and provides strategic interventions to strengthen and sustain the sector.

Further discussions on developing South African Tourism are in progress among members of the G20 Tourism working group. Furthermore, interventions are underway to enrich the travel experience of international delegates and visitors who will attend the G20 summit in November this year.

As we prepare to host nations, all South Africans have a part to play. Let’s take care of our environment and keep our cities clean and free from pollution, litter and environmental harm.

Citizens are also encouraged to explore our beautiful country.  South African National Parks Week, from 22 to 26 September 2025, offers free entry to selected national parks.

Our welcoming nature and spirit of Ubuntu is one of our greatest attractions, ensuring visitors keep coming back for more. This month let’s continue to celebrate our local attractions, diverse culture, and social fabric, and share our proudly South African stories as we work toward a tourism sector that captures the hearts of nations.

* Andrea Naicker is an Assistant Director at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)

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Mashatile reaffirms strength of Government of National Unity

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, September 22, 2025

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says the recent meeting of the Government of National Unity (GNU) Clearing House Mechanism demonstrates that the GNU is still intact, and committed to the shared goals and objectives of all represented parties. 

These goals include, but are not limited to, promoting inclusive growth, creating jobs, reducing poverty, and addressing the high unemployment rate.

Mashatile chaired the virtual meeting of the GNU Clearing House Mechanism on Friday, 19 September 2025.

In 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the creation of a GNU Clearing House Mechanism to address policy disagreements within the 10-member GNU, appointing Deputy President Mashatile to lead the initiative.

The meeting reviewed the written submissions on the draft terms of reference from the Good Party, Al Jama-Ah, and Democratic Alliance. 

This review was in accordance with the resolution made during the Clearing House meeting in March 2025.

“The Deputy President raised his concern about the time that the Clearing House has taken to finalise the matter,” the Presidency said in a statement. 

The Deputy President has outlined a plan to expedite the process, including forming a task team to review the current draft terms of reference, to report back to the Clearing House in two weeks.

The task team will be led by Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Andries Nel, and will include Thomas Walters from the Democratic Alliance, Makashule Gana from Rise Mzansi, and Apa Pooe from the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania. – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister Chikunga to present SA’s Beijing Platform for Action at UNGA80

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, will present South Africa’s Beijing Platform for Action during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York, USA.

The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, adopted by 189 governments at the Fourth World Conference on Women in 1995, remains the most comprehensive global framework for advancing women’s rights and gender equality.

According to the department, Chikunga is expected to deliver a message of urgency, hope, and possibility in advancing the Beijing+30 Action Agenda, while emphasising the centrality of gender equality in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Despite considerable strides towards achieving equality, South Africa emerges as a beacon of hope towards achieving gender equality, according to the Global Gender Gap Report released by the World Economic Forum,” the department said in a statement on Sunday.

South Africa, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, will participate in UNGA80 under the theme “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights.” The session will take place from 23–29 September 2025.

South Africa will use this platform to reinforce her commitment to global multilateralism, human rights for all, sustainable development as a collective responsibility, while advocating for peaceful resolution of conflicts with special emphasis on the conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the Sudans, and Palestine.

South Africa will also use the Assembly to promote its G20 Presidency agenda.

The President is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with several heads of state and engage with CEOs of major international companies.

On Monday, the President will participate in a High-Level Meeting on the Two-State Solution, convened and co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Arabia Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

The meeting aims to reaffirm international commitments to the two-state solution and mobilise support for its implementation. – SAnews.gov.za

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DIRCO committed to supporting South African Hajj pilgrims 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) says it remains dedicated to providing consular support to South African nationals fulfilling their religious obligations, including Hajj and Umrah, while also striving to maintain South Africa’s positive reputation in Saudi Arabia.

This is after the National Assembly unanimously passed the motion without notice to protect the rights of Hajj pilgrims, tabled by the opposition party last week. 

The party called for urgent intervention in the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC) controversy, condemning SAHUC’s alleged attempts to monopolise Hajj travel and highlighting serious allegations of misconduct.

The motion called for DIRCO to intervene to safeguard pilgrims’ rights; the Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Rights Commission (CRL Rights Commission) to investigate allegations of misconduct at SAHUC; transparency in Hajj operations and the implementation of the Nusuk Hajj system, and urgent action to prevent the establishment of a monopoly in Hajj travel, which would raise costs for pilgrims.

DIRCO has acknowledged the National Assembly’s adoption of a motion without notice regarding the “Resolution on the SAHUC controversy”. However, the department reaffirmed the information provided in its previous statement dated 15 August 2025. 

The department said that on 30 June 2025, the Ministerial Committee on Efficient Management of the Annual Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages submitted its final report to DIRCO.

“The department is currently engaging with the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities to ensure alignment with constitutional and community-based principles.” 

Meanwhile, according to the department, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia have announced a new operational framework for the facilitation of Hajj from South Africa, effective from 2026. 

Under this new model, DIRCO explained that the traditional use of licensed tour operators will be discontinued.

“Instead, all service contracts will be signed directly with Saudi service providers, who will assume full responsibility for service delivery within the Kingdom. Coordination will be managed through the Nusuk Masar electronic platform, under the oversight of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.” 

In a statement issued last month, the department said the CRL Rights Commission continues to play a vital role in guiding cultural, religious, and linguistic communities on how to organise and coordinate their affairs. 

The Commission provides support to ensure that these communities operate independently of State interference, while safeguarding their religious rights and freedoms. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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African Refining: A Promising Yet Unexploited Investment Opportunity (By Daniil Moskalev)

Source: APO


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By Daniil Moskalev, International Fellow, African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org).

In recent years, the African continent has been characterized by the active commissioning of new refining capacities. However, despite this, there is a problem with the energy infrastructure on the continent, which leads to unavailability of refined products. This unavailability is both a blessing and a curse for the African continent, its people and its quest to make energy poverty history. While insufficient refining capacity creates serious challenges for domestic consumers and industry, it presents an attractive opportunity for foreign investors, many of whom have yet to fully grasp the continent’s unique advantages.

Africa: The World’s Breadbasket of Crude Oil

In 2026, the upward trend of hydrocarbon production is expected to remain positive, with the African Energy Chamber’s The State of African Energy 2026 Outlook showing that petroleum production will level at about 11.4 million barrels per day (MMboe/d), rising to about 13.6 MMboe/d by 2030. An increase in petroleum production should correspond with a rise in refining, however, ongoing capacity constraints continue to impact Africa’s refining market, leading to a reliance on imported petroleum. This impacts countries as they strive to build local industries, create jobs and develop technical expertise in the downstream sector.

Importing refined products costs African countries significantly more than processing crude oil at home, as imports involve added expenses such as shipping, insurance and other costs. With much of the continent’s refining infrastructure either obsolete or idle, there lies a critical investment opportunity for financiers and project developers. 

Increased Population Mean Increased Consumption

Beyond the current challenge of importing refined products, rapidly growing domestic demand must also be considered, as it could increase Africa’s dependence on external energy supplies. Although Africa is home to 18% of the global population, it consumes less than 5% of the world’s oil products. Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, has the lowest per capita usage, underscoring the region’s significant potential for future demand growth ( according to information of our report). The expanding African market, driven by population growth and improving living standards, will provoke an increase in consumption. Anticipated demand growth offers strong prospects for new refining facilities. Investment in more advanced processing technologies can deliver higher returns for foreign investors while simultaneously meeting Africa’s urgent and growing demand for refined petroleum products.

Ongoing Challenges: The Case of Dangote

Market size and resource availability does not necessarily guarantee sufficient refining capacity. Take the Dangote oil refinery, for example. Even with its massive scale, this refinery will have only a limited effect on reducing Africa’s fast-rising import reliance. The continent will continue to face shortages of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel over the forecast period. In the short-term, the capacity of Dangote refinery (617,000 bpd) could partially substitute foreign sources of refined products, but the prioritization of exports is more attractive for foreign investors, that’s why commissioning of new refinery plants does not address fuel accessibility challenges on the ground However, net imports for gasoline and gasoil will widen over the long-term against the backdrop of strong growth in demand and limited additions to refining capacity. Furthermore, the commissioning of the Dangote refinery is hugely significant for the Atlantic Basin’s oil trade due to export promotion, but it barely makes a dent in Africa’s growing requirement for imported refined products.

As stated in the African Energy Chamber’s Outlook 2026, gasoil net imports are projected to reach just under 1.8 million bpd by 2050, whereas gasoline net imports are forecast to exceed 1.5 million bpd. Relying on refined imports leaves countries vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions, shipping bottlenecks and sharp price swing risks that become even more severe during times of crisis. Therefore, the priority of developing domestic energy sovereignty should be to attract downstream investments to meet domestic demand.

 So, we need to answer the questions: what can attract investors and what should we do? Foreign investments can be attracted if preferential financing conditions, a stable political environment, confidence in profitability and transparency of the terms of the agreements are provided. When these conditions are partially or fully met, large projects such as The Cabinda Oil Refinery or The Dangote Refinery are born..

What’s Next for African Refining

Given the scale of refining projects, mobilizing external financing is vital. There are several prerequisites to attract investment. Specifically, the availability of crude oil and access to a local domestic market. But countries need to look beyond this to strengthen regulatory frameworks; leverage public-private partnerships; simplify processes and reduce red tape; demonstrate openness to foreign investors; and be ready to meet companies’ half-way.

A Timely Opportunity for Strategic Investment

With political stabilization, the resolution of internal challenges and the establishment of a stable regulatory framework, the African refining market emerges as one of the most undervalued – and therefore potentially highly profitable – investment opportunity for global companies. An able workforce, a well-developed oil production system and growing demand are presented as outstanding incentives to attract investors to the continent. Strengthening the trust of external shareholders and investors can lead to an explosive development of the African oil refining industry. This can become one of the engines that drives African industrialization.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About Daniil Moskalev:
Daniil is a 3rd year student at the Higher School of Economics (HSE), Moscow, specializing in African and MENA studies, global economics, and international relations. He is currently working with the African Energy Chamber and has prior experience as an analyst at the Center for African Studies (HSE) and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation.

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African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Unlocking the Potential of Africa’s Energy Sector through Local Content and Workforce Development

Source: APO


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African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies is putting a spotlight on the transformative potential of energy projects beyond resource extraction, emphasizing local content, workforce development and sustainable community impact. A central feature of the conference – the Local Content Roundtable on Day 2, sponsored by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) – will explore how energy companies and governments can work together to build African capacity, strengthen local supply chains and create meaningful employment. 

Moderated by Hamlet Morule, Executive Head of Communications & External Affairs at bp South Africa, the roundtable will convene industry leaders and policy experts from across the continent. Speakers include Abdulmalik Halilu, Director of Corporate Services at NCDMB; Alexander Merson, SVP of Asset Operations at Petrofac; Tony Paul, Key Associate for In-Country Value Addition at Future Energy Partners; Bradford Donohue, CEO of IHRDC; Jorge de Morais, General Manager at KAESO Energy Services; Mor Bakhoum, Technical Secretary at ST-CNSL Senegal; and a senior representative from AGL. 

The session will examine practical challenges in local content implementation across Angola, Nigeria and South Africa – including limited technical skills, underdeveloped SME ecosystems and inconsistent policy enforcement – as well as showcase how specific projects are delivering tangible economic benefits. 

In Nigeria, for example, the Brass Fertilizer and Petrochemical Project in Bayelsa State is a $3.5 billion initiative that not only produces petrochemical and gas-based products for export but also generates over 5,000 direct and 35,000 indirect jobs. It reduces routine gas flaring, supplies local industries and power plants and cuts fertilizer imports by nearly 30%, saving the country an estimated $200 million annually. This project exemplifies how energy development can stimulate local supply chains, boost industrial capacity and create lasting employment opportunities. 

In Angola, the Begonia and CLOV Phase 3 offshore projects, which began production in July 2025, are adding 60,000 barrels per day to the country’s output. Begonia is the first project between blocks in Angola with a “significant” component of local content – according to national concessionaire ANPG – demonstrating the country’s commitment to integrating local labor and suppliers into offshore operations. 

“Local content is more than just a compliance requirement. It’s about creating sustainable jobs, developing local supply chains and empowering communities. Every energy project should leave a tangible legacy for the people and economies where it operates,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.  

AEW 2025’s programming underlines that energy development in Africa is shifting from short-term extraction to long-term economic transformation. By embedding workforce development and supplier capacity into core strategies, governments and companies are transferring skills, supporting SMEs and enabling communities to benefit directly from Africa’s energy growth. 

The Local Content Roundtable reinforces that achieving these outcomes requires collaboration, innovation and consistent policy enforcement. Across the continent, from Nigeria’s petrochemical plants to Angola’s deepwater FPSOs, energy initiatives are now creating enduring value for local economies, expanding skills and building resilient supply chains.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.