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Hlabisa advocates for urbanisation as a catalyst for growth

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has emphasised that urbanisation can catalyse growth, innovation, and social inclusion, if managed effectively. 

The Minister delivered the keynote address at the 2025 National Urban Forum (NUF), currently taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.

The two-day forum marks South Africa’s second NUF, reaffirming the country’s commitment to the global urban agenda through continuous policy refinement and implementation.

This year’s edition coincides with South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) and Urban20 (U20), further amplifying its significance on the international stage.

Hlabisa stated that the forum is addressing critical challenges such as rapid urban migration, which places pressure on infrastructure, including transport, water, and housing.

It also promotes environmental sustainability through balanced urban growth and protection, and advocates for urban social cohesion through equitable access to services supported by integrated planning.

Speaking in his capacity as the policy custodian of the Integrated Urban Development Framework (IUDF), Hlabisa described the forum as a strategic opportunity to reshape urban life.

Reflecting on the progress of the IUDF (2020–2025), Hlabisa highlighted achievements in spatial planning, small-town regeneration, and innovative financing models, while recognising ongoing issues such as fragmented implementation and limited municipal capacity.

He called for recalibrated strategies that promote inclusivity and improve the quality of life for all citizens.

The Minister believes that the forum catalyses socio-economic transformation, highlighting the importance of partnerships with academia and the private sector to turn urban development plans into actionable outcomes.

“The National Urban Forum is not a talk shop. It is a platform for action,” he said. 

He outlined the core principles guiding the current review of the IUDF implementation plan. 

This approach emphasises collaboration across government and society to establish accountability and foster inclusive urban development, ensuring that the voices of marginalised groups – such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities are elevated.

The plan also focuses on innovation in financing and technology, leveraging digital advancements while promoting climate resilience and sustainability. 

It is anchored in solid municipal strategies and aims to strengthen local government capacity through targeted support and enhancement of skills.

“At the heart of these engagements is the realisation of the IUDF vision of creating liveable, safe, resource-efficient cities and towns that are socially integrated, economically inclusive, and globally competitive – where residents actively participate in urban life.”

The IUDF is South Africa’s policy framework for reorganising the urban system to ensure cities and towns are inclusive, resource-efficient, and conducive to improved living and working conditions.

It aligns with the National Development Plan (NDP) and promotes a shared understanding across government and society for managing urbanisation effectively, in line with the District Development Model (DDM).

In addition, adopted globally in 2016, the New Urban Agenda (NUA) serves as a roadmap for creating sustainable, resilient, and inclusive cities. It highlights that well-managed urbanisation is a crucial driver for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This year’s NUF offers a collaborative platform for government, civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders to tackle South Africa’s urban development challenges. 

In addition, it serves as a precursor to the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12).

“Cities are not just spaces; they are stories. Let us write the next chapter together, one of justice, opportunity, and sustainability for all,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Déclaration, enregistrement et obtention de l’acte de naissance : Un nouveau jour pour l’état civil béninois (Agence Nationale d’Identification des Personnes (ANIP) lance la phase pilote du guichet unique dans plusieurs formations sanitaires)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


L’Agence Nationale d’Identification des Personnes (ANIP), avec l’appui des partenaires WURI et l’UNICEF facilite désormais la tâche aux parents. L’état civil au Bénin se modernise de jour en jour. Désormais, dans une dizaine de formations sanitaires publiques, la déclaration, l’enregistrement des naissances et l’obtention de l’acte de naissance du nouveau-né se feront sur place, grâce à l’installation d’un guichet unique dont la phase pilote a été lancée ce mercredi 20 Août 2025 au CHU-MEL de Cotonou par le représentant du Directeur Général de l’ANIP, le Responsable des Politiques, des Partenariats et de la Communication multicanal, Monsieur Herbert ASSOGBA. 

C’était en présence du représentant du Coordonnateur du Projet WURI, Monsieur Aimé O.UDOU, du Représentant résident de l’UNICEF au Bénin, Monsieur Ousmane NIANG, du Directeur Général du CHU-MEL de Cotonou Monsieur Sourou Raymond KINTOMONHO, du Directeur de l’état civil Monsieur Abdon Marius MIKPON’AI et de plusieurs acteurs du secteur de la santé. 

En effet, les parents doivent souvent se rendre plusieurs fois dans les unités communales pour finaliser l’enregistrement d’une naissance. Le guichet unique vient à point pour simplifier et accélérer ce processus, afin de garantir que chaque enfant ait une identité légale dès sa naissance, car le dispositif est implanté dans certaines formations sanitaires. 

La phase pilote se déroule dans dix formations sanitaires publiques notamment le CHU-MEL de Cotonou, le CNHU de Cotonou, le CHU d’Abomey-Calavi, les hôpitaux départementaux du Zou-Collines, de l’Ouémé, du Borgou-Alibori, du Mono, l’Hôpital de zone de Natitingou, l’hôpital de zone de Suru-Léré, et l’hôpital Ordre de Malte de Djougou. 

« Plus besoin d’aller à la mairie pour déclarer la naissance. L’enregistrement est fait directement dans la formation sanitaire. Les parents reçoivent par SMS le Numéro Personnel d’Identification (NPI) de leur enfant. Ils peuvent ensuite obtenir facilement l’acte de naissance et le certificat NPI en ligne ou aux guichets physiques de l’ANIP. L’enregistrement des naissances et l’attribution du NPI sont gratuits », a indiqué Monsieur Herbert ASSOGBA. 

Le guichet unique ne sert pas seulement les nouveaux-nés. Les parents qui n’ont pas encore fait le RAVIP pourront également le faire directement. Mais ils pourront aussi mettre à jour leurs coordonnées. Les partenaires WURI et l’UNICEF salue cette avancée qu’ils qualifient de formidable. 

La phase pilote se déroule sur 6 mois, du d’août 2025 à Février 2026. Le modèle sera généralisé, rassure Monsieur Herbert ASSOGBA, représentant le Directeur Général de l’ANIP.

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

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Journée nationale du Bénin à l’Expo Osaka 2025 : Une immersion dans un monde de splendeurs

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le 29 août 2025, le Bénin s’apprête à célébrer sa Journée Nationale à l’Exposition Universelle Osaka 2025, offrant au public international une expérience unique et immersive, combinant patrimoine, créativité et perspectives d’avenir. Cette célébration, inscrite au calendrier officiel de l’Expo, illustre la volonté du Bénin de renforcer sa visibilité sur la scène mondiale et de s’affirmer comme un acteur dynamique du continent africain.

Le concept “Benin Horizons – A Journey of Culture and Opportunities” reflète un pays en pleine transformation, où l’héritage patrimonial se conjugue avec l’innovation, et où les ambitions internationales se nourrissent d’un enracinement profond. Cette approche traduit la vision du Bénin de présenter un panorama complet de son identité, allant de la richesse de ses traditions à la modernité de ses infrastructures et initiatives économiques.

Une invitation au voyage

Le 29 août, le Bénin invite le monde à vivre une expérience exceptionnelle au cœur de l’Expo Osaka 2025. La Journée Nationale n’est pas seulement un symbole diplomatique : elle se veut un manifeste de créativité, de diplomatie culturelle et d’ouverture économique. Investisseurs, décideurs, créateurs, médias et grand public sont conviés à franchir les portes du Pavillon du Bénin pour découvrir un Monde de Splendeurs.

  • Patrimoine et culture : arts visuels, arts vivants et arts culinaires
  • Innovation et opportunités d’affaires : réformes économiques, filières stratégiques, climat propice aux investissements
  • Engagement et durabilité : initiatives écoresponsables et projets structurants

Du cœur historique de Porto-Novo, la capitale aux trois noms et aux multiples visages bientôt enrichie par son futur Musée International du Vodun, aux plages chargées d’histoire de Ouidah et à son ambitieux projet Sèmè City, des majestueux palais royaux d’Abomey aux Tata Somba du Nord, en passant par les trésors naturels de la Pendjari et les marchés vibrants de Cotonou, le Bénin se révèle comme une mosaïque vivante où patrimoine, innovation et nature s’entrelacent pour offrir au visiteur une expérience à la fois authentique et visionnaire.

Babalola Jean-Michel H. ABIMBOLA, Ministre du Tourisme, de la Culture et des Arts du Bénin, déclare :

« La Journée Nationale offre au Bénin une tribune exceptionnelle pour affirmer son rayonnement. En célébrant notre présence au Japon, nous ouvrons une fenêtre sur notre patrimoine, notre créativité et notre vision tout en affirmant notre place sur la scène internationale. Nous convions ainsi le monde entier à explorer les multiples facettes de notre pays et à nourrir l’envie irrésistible d’en fouler la terre. »

Yannis ADEBIAYE, Commissaire Généraldu Pavillon du Bénin, ajoute :

« À Osaka, le Bénin se présente sur la scène internationale avec authenticité et ambition : cette Journée Nationale est une vitrine stratégique qui illustre comment ce Monde de Splendeurs devient jour après jour une destination incontournable à découvrir. »

Le programme officiel autour de la Journée Nationale du Bénin : Semaine du Bénin à Osaka – Expo 2025 (28 au 31 août 2025) Jeudi 28 août 2025 – Journée économique (14h00 – 18h30) Choose Benin Investment Forum – Mairie de Higashi-Osaka

  • Accueil officiel et protocolaire par l’Ambassade du Bénin
  • Interventions du Maire de Higashi-Osaka, APIEX, SIPI, ALZ
  • Panels thématiques (investissement, agro-industrie, logistique)
  • Témoignages d’experts japonais
  • Sessions B2G avec entreprises japonaises

Vendredi 29 août – Journée nationale du Bénin

Diplomatie, culture et célébration

Temps fort diplomatique, culturel et artistique, la Journée Nationale célèbre l’amitié Bénin–Japon. Sa programmation, en partenariat avec l’ADAC, fera rayonner l’excellence et la diversité des talents béninois à l’international.

ND Hall & Guest House – Expo Site 10h30 – 15h15 (JST)

  • 10h30 : Accueil des invités
  • 11h00 : Allocutions officielles & hymnes (15 min)
  • 11h15 : Performances artistiques (45 min) – Les Pépit’Arts, Chudo Saito, Couleur Indigo / Pépé Oleka
  • 12h15 : Déjeuner officiel à la Guest House
  • 13h45 : Visites officielles des Pavillons du Bénin et du Japon

Réception officielle (18h00 – 20h00) – sur invitation

  • Cocktail, discours et buffet fusion
  • Performances artistiques et échanges

Samedi 30 août – Journée artistique & immersive

Pop-up Stage West ou North 13h00 – 14h00 (JST)

  • Showcase Les Pépit’Arts & Chudo Saito
  • Défilé Couleur Indigo / Pépé Oleka

Center Stage Commons B / Salle Commons A / Salle Panaf’ 16h00 – 17h00 (JST)

  • Keynote immersive « Benin, World of Wonders »
  • Focus : destination Bénin, ananas Pain de Sucre, noix de cajou

Center Stage Commons B 18h00 – 19h00 (JST)

  • Showcase Les Pépit’Arts & Chudo Saito
  • Défilé Couleur Indigo / Pépé Oleka

Dimanche 31 août 2025 – Journée créative & design

Savoir-faire, mode et innovation

Center Stage Commons B 13h00 – 15h00 (JST)

  • Performance de Larry Tchogninou (design, art corporel, identité)

Showroom du Pavillon du Bénin 15h30 – 17h30 (JST)

  • Performance de King Houndekpinkou (céramique, spiritualité, esthétique contemporaine)

Center Stage Commons B (TBC) 18h00 – 20h30 (JST)

  • Showcase Rosyne Club (art textile, mouvement, lumière)

À propos du Pavillon du Bénin à l’Exposition Universelle Osaka 2025

Portée par l’Agence Bénin Tourisme, la participation du Bénin à l’Exposition Universelle Osaka 2025 se veut une véritable immersion dans la richesse culturelle, historique et économique du pays. Le pavillon, conçu sous le concept “Benin Horizons : A Journey of Culture and Opportunities”, offrira aux visiteurs une expérience interactive, permettant de découvrir les multiples facettes du Bénin, un pays qui allie traditions ancestrales et modernité. Le pavillon mettra en avant le dynamisme du Bénin à travers trois grands axes : la valorisation de ses atouts touristiques, culturels et artistiques, ses innovations et son développement économique.

À propos de l’Exposition Universelle Osaka 2025

L’Exposition Universelle Osaka 2025, qui se tiendra du 13 avril au 13 octobre 2025 sur l’île de Yumeshima, au Japon, sera un événement incontournable à l’échelle mondiale. Réunissant plus de 160 pays et attendue par près de 28 millions de visiteurs, cette exposition offrira une plateforme exceptionnelle pour explorer des solutions innovantes aux défis mondiaux actuels. Le thème central de l’Exposition, “Concevoir la société du futur, imaginer notre vie de demain”, invite les participants à réfléchir ensemble sur la manière de bâtir un avenir plus durable, équitable et respectueux de la planète.

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

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Eritrea: Seminar for Nationals in Hamburg

Source: APO – Report:

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Mr. Yohannes Woldu, Charge d’Affaires at the Eritrean Embassy in Germany, conducted a seminar for nationals residing in Hamburg on 17 August.

Mr. Yohannes, highlighting the significance of such seminars in enhancing the understanding of nationals on national issues and in strengthening organization and unity, called for reinforced participation.

Mr. Teame Haile, head of Public and Community Affairs, gave an extensive briefing on the objective situation in the homeland. He noted that Eritrea, while preserving its peace and stability, is making a modest contribution to peace and stability in the region.

Mr. Teklu Lebasi, coordinator of Consular Affairs and Public Diplomacy, said that encouraging activities are being carried out in consular services and emphasized that further efforts will be made to improve them.

The participants, for their part, expressed readiness to strengthen organizational capacity and participation in national affairs. They also pledged to contribute to the Afambo boarding school project, which is being initiated by nationals residing in Germany.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Eritrea: Training on Cooling and Heating Systems in Massawa

Source: APO – Report:

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The Workers Vocational Training Center in Massawa, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water, Land and Environment and the Ministry of Defense, has provided a three-month training course on cooling and heating systems to 16 youth.

Mr. Habtemariam Tesfamicael, representative of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers, said that the trainees were members of the Ministries of Water, Land and Environment and Defense, and that 70% of the training was practical.

Col. Mehari Feseha, head of Logistics at the Defense Forces Training Center, noted that the training was highly important as it was supported with technology, and he called on the trainees to practically apply the knowledge they gained.

Eng. Robel Kibrom, head of Chemicals and Wastes at the Ministry of Water, Land and Environment, underlined that vocational training makes a significant contribution to sustainable development and stated that similar training programs will continue to be organized.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Japan-Ghana Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

Source: APO – Report:

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On August 22, commencing at 9:30 a.m. for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a Foreign Ministers’ meeting with Hon. Mr. Samuel Okudzeto ABLAKWA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ghana, who is visiting Japan to participate in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). The overview of the meeting is as follows:

  1. At the outset, Minister IWAYA expressed his condolences for the deaths of eight people, including the Minister of Defense and the Minister of the Environment, in an accident that occurred in Ghana on August 6. Minister IWAYA also mentioned that it will soon be 100 years since Dr. NOGUCHI Hideyo traveled to Ghana, and expressed his hope that Minister Ablakwa’s visit to Japan will serve as an opportunity to further strengthen the partnership between the two countries. In response, Minister Ablakwa expressed his congratulations on the success of TICAD 9 and highly appreciated Japan’s efforts in TICAD, including in the field of health. In addition, Minister Ablakwa expressed his desire to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in the international arena, looking ahead to 2027, marking the 100th anniversary of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi’s voyage, the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, and the 50th anniversary of the dispatch of JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers.
     
  2. Minister IWAYA referred to Japan’s support in the infrastructure sector and requested cooperation in improving the business environment for the further development of economic relations between the two countries. In response, Minister Ablakwa expressed his gratitude for Japan’s support to date, including in the areas of infrastructure and agriculture, and stated his desire to continue working closely with Japan to promote further investment by Japanese companies.
     
  3. The two Ministers exchanged views and concurred in closely working together to respond to various regional and international challenges, including their policies toward North Korea including on the nuclear and missile issues and the abductions issue, as well as the United Nations Security Council reform.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

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The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism

Source: APO – Report:

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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, pays tribute, on this International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, to all those who have lost their lives and to those who continue to endure the physical, psychological, and social consequences of terrorist and extremist acts.

The Chairperson underscores that the memory of the victims serves as a constant reminder of the urgent need to intensify collective efforts to eradicate terrorism, which continues to sow devastation, destroy communities, and threaten peace, security, and development in Africa.

In this regard, the Chairperson recalls that the African Union has established a solid normative framework through the 1999 OAU Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism and its 2004 Protocol. He urges all Member States to fully implement these instruments, which embody the continent’s collective commitment to fighting this scourge.

The Chairperson stresses the necessity of combining both military and non-military approaches in the prevention and fight against terrorism and violent extremism. Security operations must be complemented by initiatives that foster dialogue, reconciliation, and socio-economic reintegration.

While reaffirming the solidarity of the African Union with all victims and their families, the Chairperson reiterates the determination of the continental organization to support Member States in their efforts to eradicate terrorism and to promote an Africa of peace, security, and dignity.

– on behalf of African Union (AU).

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Ghana: Mahama advises African leaders: “Let’s not kid ourselves about investments”

Source: APO – Report:

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President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday co-chaired the second plenary session on the ‘Economy: Co-create Innovative Solutions with Africa’ of the ongoing 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in Yokohama, Japan.

Mr Mahama co-chaired the session with former Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, with interventions from Kenyan President William Ruto, Togolese leader Faure Gnassingbe, and South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa. The UN Under-Secretary General Cristina Duarte and Comoros President Azali Assoumani also delivered remarks.

In his concluding remarks, President Mahama said TICAD-9 is happening at a time of a rapidly changing world order.

“The world’s largest economy, which should be the driver of global trade and investments, has become more insular and transactional in its relationship with the rest of the world”, he noted.

He had advice for African leaders and their people: “Africa is open for business. We wish to partner with any nation in the world on a win-win basis. But let’s not kid ourselves! Trade and investments will not come to Africa because we wish for it.”

According to President Mahama, “Africa must undertake the hard but necessary reforms, as countries on the continent, to make Africa an attractive destination for investments.”

“That is why we must silence the guns and stop the fighting. That is why we must reform our economies and make them more stable and predictable. This is why we must reform our governance and make public service accountable and corruption-free”, Mr Mahama added.

– on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

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Eritrea: Successful Cataract Surgery in Adi-Keih Hospital

Source: APO – Report:

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In collaboration with the Sudanese Albeser Ophthalmologists team, successful cataract surgery was performed on over 400 patients at Adi-Keih Hospital between 14 July and 18 August.

Dr. Tsegazeab Kiflezgi, Medical Director of the hospital, said the patients who underwent surgery were those on the waiting list and came from the sub-zones of Senafe, Adi-Keih, Tserona, Segeneity, and Foro.

Mr. Alem Zekarias, Director of National Blindness Control at the Ministry of Health, noted that the collaboration with the Albeser Ophthalmologists team has lasted for over 15 years and has made a significant contribution in terms of experience sharing.

Mr. Alem also stated that similar surgeries have previously been conducted on 12,000 nationals in Dekemhare, Massawa, and Keren.

Ms. Soliana Abraha, a staff member at Adi-Keih Hospital, indicated that the surgeries were conducted free of charge.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Qatar Strongly Condemns Attack on World Food Program Trucks in Sudan

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – 21 August 2025

The State of Qatar strongly condemns the targeting of World Food Program (WFP) trucks in North Darfur State, in the sisterly Republic of the Sudan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the urgent need to protect humanitarian workers and to ensure the continuous and safe delivery of aid in order to address the dire humanitarian situation in North Darfur.

The Ministry calls for concerted regional and international efforts to bring an end to the conflict through peaceful means. It also reiterated Qatar’s full support for the unity, sovereignty, and stability of Sudan, and affirms its solidarity with the brotherly Sudanese people in their aspirations for peace, development, and prosperity.