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Evaluation des contrats d’objectifs 2025 : Dr Aboubakar NACANABO atteint un taux d’exécution de 54,10%

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Premier ministre, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, a procédé ce mercredi 6 août 2025 à l’évaluation à mi-parcours du contrat d’objectifs du ministre de l’Économie et des Finances, Dr Aboubakar Nacanabo. Au 30 juin 2025, le taux de réalisation de ce contrat s’établit à 54,10 %, témoignant d’une bonne dynamique et de résultats significatifs engrangés.

Le contrat d’objectifs du ministre s’articule autour de cinq axes majeurs : le pilotage de l’économie, la mobilisation des ressources, la gestion des comptes, l’audit, et la sauvegarde des intérêts de l’État. Ces axes comprennent 28 actions prioritaires et 66 extrants.

‎Parmi les acquis du premier semestre, le ministre a cité le lancement de FASO ARZEKA, une plateforme permettant d’effectuer en ligne les paiements liés à toutes les opérations administratives ; la plateforme SYCAD, qui dématérialise les opérations foncières ; ainsi que la plateforme SECOP, un espace regroupant l’ensemble des informations et pièces nécessaires aux soumissionnaires des marchés publics.

‎En matière de mobilisation des ressources, Dr Nacanabo a souligné la collecte de 1 487 milliards de F CFA au premier semestre, soit 99,7 % des objectifs fixés, auxquels s’ajoutent 101 milliards de F CFA mobilisés pour le Fonds de soutien patriotique (FSP). Il a également annoncé la création d’une société de transit dédiée aux opérations stratégiques pour l’État.

‎Ces initiatives s’inscrivent dans l’objectif de réaliser, d’ici la fin de l’année, « un taux de croissance de 6 %, avec une inflation maîtrisée autour de 3 % et un recouvrement des recettes à un niveau record », a précisé le ministre.

‎Dr Nacanabo a salué « l’engagement de tous les collaborateurs et la bonne collaboration avec les autres ministres », rappelant que l’économie nationale dépend de l’action conjuguée de tous les secteurs.

‎Pour le second semestre, le ministre a annoncé la poursuite du financement des petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) à travers les différents guichets du ministère, que ce soit au niveau du Fonds burkinabè de développement économique et social (FBDES) ou de l’Agence nationale de la finance inclusive. Il prévoit également de renforcer la mobilisation des ressources et de poursuivre les réformes, notamment en matière de digitalisation, de gestion foncière et de pilotage économique. Il a enfin mentionné l’étude nationale prospective Burkina post-2025, en cours de finalisation, ainsi que l’élaboration de la politique nationale de développement.

Distribué par APO Group pour Service d’Information du Gouvernement du Burkina Faso.

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Uganda: Member of Parliament (MP) demand govt action on roads and road safety amid accidents

Source: APO


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The country’s poor state of road infrastructure and rising fatalities dominated the plenary sitting in Parliament, with MPs demanding urgent action from government to address funding gaps, stalled road works and worsening road safety conditions.

During plenary on Wednesday, 6 August 2025, Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, led the call for a more proactive and comprehensive approach to both road maintenance and safety, following a series of tragic road accidents including one along the Hoima–Buliisa Road in Kigorobya on Tuesday night that claimed the lives of at least 20 traders and left others injured.

“As we strive to improve the state of roads, we should also emphasise road safety,” said Among.

She cited the 2024 Annual Crime Report by the Uganda Police Force, which recorded 25,107 road crashes and 25,808 casualties. Among warned that unsafe road conditions combined with reckless behaviour and weak enforcement have created a deadly combination.

Lawmakers expressed alarm over the state of roads across the country, citing dilapidated stretches, stalled projects, delayed compensation, and failure by the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) to utilise allocated budgets.

Kyaka Central MP Hon. Bright Amooti lamented the state of the Kyegegwa–Kakumiro Road, where over 15 trucks remain parked due to impassable conditions.

“That road has been controlled by the Fort Portal station of UNRA and it is no longer in action,” he said.

Hon. Gorreth Namugga (NUP, Mawogola South) demanded immediate funding for critical needs, including Shs1.1 trillion in arrears and Shs850 billion for periodic maintenance.

“We are here for money. We are not here to lament,” she stressed.

Responding to the concerns, Minister for Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, warned of escalating fiscal losses if the maintenance backlog is not addressed urgently.

“Rehabilitation costs about Shs2.59 billion per kilometer, three times the cost of periodic maintenance. Failure to act could result in a preventable loss of up to Shs180 billion,” Katumba said.

He revealed the Ministry faces a Shs2.472 trillion funding gap for the financial year 2025/2026, including Shs1.071 trillion in arrears and Shs443 billion needed for land acquisition. As of July 2025, 27 road projects; 18 government-funded and nine donor-supported—have stalled or slowed due to delayed payments and lack of counterpart funding.

Contractors, he added, have now been engaged for roads including Mityana–Mubende, Nebbi–Arua, Ishaka–Mbarara, and Mpondwe. In response to complaints about Kyegegwa–Kyenjojo Road, a road unit previously working on Jinja Road has been redeployed to rehabilitate the affected stretch.

Speaker Among, however, raised broader concerns about road quality and Uganda’s dependency on external funding.

“Most roads we have do not last. And by the time we are rehabilitating them, we are still paying loans for their construction,” she said, referencing a recent presidential directive against over-reliance on donor financing.

Among listed several once functional roads now in disrepair including Mityana–Mubende, Mukono–Jinja, Ibanda–Mbarara and Mbarara–Ishaka, and revealed that President Museveni had directed the Minister of Finance to allocate Shs3.2 trillion specifically for these roads.

Minister Katumba also noted that 23 regional stations had become operational following staff absorption issues, and these are expected to bolster ongoing road maintenance efforts.

The conversation quickly turned to road safety, with MPs warning that poor infrastructure, reckless driving, inadequate signage, and unregulated transport systems were exacerbating the crisis.

Kalungu West MP, Hon. Joseph Ssewungu, called on the Committee on Physical Infrastructure to prioritise road markings and signage to improve visibility, especially at night.

Rakai District Woman MP, Hon. Juliet Kinyamatama, proposed the development of a more affordable and reliable transportation system for traders, blaming current business transport costs for dangerous improvisation.

State Minister for Internal Affairs, Hon. David Muhoozi, acknowledged serious gaps in road safety enforcement and promised a multi-faceted strategy.

“There are good traffic officers, but also bad apples. We are considering a road safety inspection unit and expanding CCTV coverage to monitor rogue behaviour,” he told the House.

Speaker Among said that it is now Parliament’s role to make a follow-up and ensure that the issue of the roads are worked on.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

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Joburg Mayor appoints MMCs 

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has appointed Councillor Loyiso Masuku as Finance Member of Mayor Committee (MMC) following the election of former MMC Margaret Arnolds as the Speaker of Council.

Masuku leaves her role as MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services.

“In this regard, the Executive Mayor has officially appointed…Councillor Sithembiso Zungu as the new MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services.

“These appointments are crucial as the City seeks to strengthen financial governance, uphold fiscal discipline, and enhance revenue collection to serve its residents better,” the Mayor’s office said in a statement on Wednesday.

The office reiterated Morero’s commitment to “fostering stability, which is essential for maintaining productivity and labour harmony within Johannesburg”. 

“This dedication positions the City as a high-performing organisation that is responsive, professional, and attuned to the needs of its residents.

“The Executive Mayor believes that the leadership, experience, and commitment to public service demonstrated by these appointees will significantly contribute to the success of the administration’s service delivery agenda, facilitating the implementation of the City’s turnaround plan as we collectively work towards building the Johannesburg we envision,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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SA raises concern over arrival of “dangerous criminals” to Eswatini

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Government has raised concerns with the Kingdom of Eswatini over the arrival of dangerous criminals to that landlocked country and the impact it would have on South Africa’s national security.

“South Africa has raised concerns with the Kingdom of Eswatini following confirmation by the acting spokesperson of the Government, Mrs Thabile Mdluli, that a group of dangerous criminals of various nationalities landed in Eswatini after being transported from the United States of America on a special flight with the potential of more criminals of this profile to follow,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said.

The department said that the arrival of this group was accompanied by a notification from the United States Department of Homeland Security that this group, consisting of individuals from several countries, includes some who have been convicted of serious offenses and crimes and have been deported from the United States and have now arrived in the Kingdom of Eswatini.

Reports indicate that these criminals were deported to Eswatini after attempts to send the men from Laos, Cuba, Jamaica, Vietnam, and Yemen back to their own countries were rejected. 

“DIRCO, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of South Africa, noted the aforementioned statement wherein Eswatini and the United States indicated that they would collaborate with the International Organisation for Migration to facilitate the transit of these inmates to their countries of origin. 

“DIRCO also noted that the countries of origin of these deportees are unlikely to receive them,” the statement read. 

While respecting the decision of the Government of Eswatini, South Africa expressed deep concern about “the profile of these individuals and the potential adverse impact on South Africa’s national security and immigration policy, given the geographical proximity between the two sisterly countries”. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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La Fondation Merck organise une Formation des Médias sur la Santé pour les journalistes mauriciens en collaboration avec le Ministre de l’Égalité des Genres et du Bien-être de la Famille

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

  • CEO de la Fondation Merck a rencontré S.E. M. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, Président de la République de Maurice, pour partager l’impact de leurs 100 bourses d’études pour les médecins mauriciens, en partenariat avec le Ministère de la Santé.
  • Dr. Rasha Kelej a également rencontré l’Honorable Mme Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Ministre de l’Égalité des Genres et du Bien-être de la Famille de Maurice, afin de partager l’impact de leurs programmes et de souligner leur engagement à long terme pour résoudre les problèmes sociaux critiques à Maurice. Ils ont également lancé leur projet « Éduquer Linda » visant à soutenir l’éducation de 20 écolières mauriciennes brillantes mais défavorisées.  

La Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, a organisé la quatrième édition de sa « Formation des Médias sur la Santé de la Fondation Merck », en partenariat avec le Ministère de l’Égalité des Genres et du Bien-être de la Famille de Maurice. La session de formation était coprésidée par la Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO de la Fondation Merck, et l’Honorable Mme Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Ministre de l’Égalité des Genres et du Bien-être de la Famille de Maurice.

Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO de la Fondation Merck et Présidente de la Campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère », a déclaré : « Je crois fermement au pouvoir des médias et à leur rôle majeur dans le façonnement de notre société. J’ai toujours dit que les médias entrent dans chaque foyer, même sans invitation. Par conséquent, les journalistes peuvent faire la différence par leur travail quotidien et créer un changement culturel en sensibilisant aux enjeux sociaux et de santé tels que la lutte contre la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, le soutien à l’éducation des filles, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, la lutte contre les violences basées sur le genre et la sensibilisation au dépistage précoce et à la prévention du diabète et de l’hypertension. »

Grâce à notre Formation des Médias sur la Santé, nous visons à autonomiser les journalistes afin de briser le silence et d’être la voix des sans-voix, en leur donnant accès à l’information

La Formation des Médias sur la Santé de la Fondation Merck fait partie du Programme de Sensibilisation Communautaire « Fondation Merck Plus Qu’une Mère ». La formation a été animée par un panel d’éminentes personnalités des domaines de la fertilité, de la psychiatrie, du diabète et des piliers des médias, et a réuni des journalistes mauriciens de la presse écrite, de la télévision, de la radio et des plateformes de médias en ligne. Le panel a également répondu aux questions des participants.

Lors de sa visite, elle a également rencontré S.E. M. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, Président de la République de Maurice, afin de partager l’impact de leurs 100 bourses d’études pour les médecins mauriciens dans 42 spécialités cruciales et mal desservies, en partenariat avec le Ministère de la Santé.

« Ce fut un grand honneur de rencontrer S.E. M. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, Président de la République de Maurice, et de partager avec lui l’impact de notre partenariat et de nos programmes depuis 2017. Ces programmes visent à transformer les soins aux patients, à renforcer les capacités des secteurs de la santé et des médias, à autonomiser les femmes dans les STEM, à soutenir l’éducation des filles et à sensibiliser aux enjeux sociaux et sanitaire à Maurice et dans le reste de l’Afrique. Nous sommes fermement engagés à collaborer étroitement avec le Ministère de la Santé pour améliorer l’accès à des solutions de santé innovantes et équitables », a déclaré le Dr. Kelej. 

Elle a également rencontré l’Honorable Mme Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Ministre de l’Égalité des genres et du Bien-être familial de Maurice.

« Je suis très heureuse d’annoncer qu’en collaboration avec le Ministère de l’Égalité des Genres et du Bien-être Familial, nous lançons notre programme « Éduquer Linda » dans le pays. Dans le cadre de ce programme, nous soutiendrons la scolarité de 20 écolières mauriciennes brillantes mais défavorisées, jusqu’à l’obtention de leur diplôme. Grâce à cela, nous leur donnerons les moyens de terminer leurs études et d’atteindre leur plein potentiel. » a-t-elle partagé.

Les 100 bourses d’études destinées aux médecins mauriciens locaux ont été attribuées pour des Diplômes Post-Universitaires d’un an et des Masters de deux ans dans de nombreuses spécialités essentielles, notamment la Fertilité, Embryologie, Soins Sexuels et Reproductifs, Oncologie, Prévention Cardiovasculaire, Diabète, Endocrinologie, Médecine Aiguë, Pneumologie, Gastroentérologie, Dermatologie, Neuroimagerie pour la Recherche, Soins Sexuels et Reproductifs, Microbiologie Clinique et Maladies Infectieuses, Médecine Interne, Médecine d’urgence Pédiatrique, Ophtalmologie, Chirurgie Laparoscopique, Soins Intensifs, Médecine Néonatale, Psychiatrie, Médecine Familiale, Cytopathologie Avancée et bien d’autres.

À ce jour, la Fondation Merck a accordé plus de 2 280 bourses à de jeunes médecins de 52 pays dans 44 spécialités essentielles et mal desservies, dont beaucoup sont devenus les premiers spécialistes de leur pays.

Au cours de la session de Formation des Médias sur la Santé de la Fondation Merck, l’Appel à Candidatures pour 8 prix importants de la Fondation Merck a été lancé pour les médias, les musiciens, les créateurs de mode, les cinéastes, les étudiants et les nouveaux talents potentiels dans ces domaines.

Les Prix Annoncés Sont :

  1. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias Africains de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2025, en partenariat avec Media Trust Board, Maurice : Les représentants des médias et les étudiants en journalisme sont invités à présenter leur travail pour sensibiliser à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : Briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, Soutenir l’éducation des filles, Autonomisation des femmes, Mettre fin au mariage des enfants, Mettre fin aux MGF et/ou Mettre fin aux violences sexistes à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2025.

  1. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2025, en partenariat avec l’Académie du Design et de l’Innovation, Maurice : Tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour délivrer des messages forts et influents afin de sensibiliser à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : Briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, Soutenir l’éducation des filles, Autonomisation des femmes, Mettre fin au mariage des enfants, Mettre fin aux MGF et/ou Mettre fin aux violences sexistes à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2025.

  1. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2025 : Tous les cinéastes africains, les étudiants des institutions de formation cinématographique ou les jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un film long ou court, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame pour délivrer des messages forts et influents pour aborder un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants, tels que : Briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, Soutenir l’éducation des filles, Autonomisation des femmes, Mettre fin au mariage des enfants, Mettre fin aux MGF et/ou Mettre fin aux violences sexistes à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2025.

  1. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2025 : Tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but d’aborder un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : Briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, Soutenir l’éducation des filles, Autonomisation des femmes, Mettre fin au mariage des enfants, Mettre fin aux MGF et/ou Mettre fin aux violences sexistes à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2025.

  1. Prix Reconnaissance des Médias de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2025, en partenariat avec Media Trust Board, Maurice : Les représentants des médias sont invités à présenter leur travail à travers des messages forts et influents pour promouvoir un mode de vie sain et sensibiliser sur la prévention et le dépistage précoce du Diabète et de l’Hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2025.

  1. Prix de Mode de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2025, en partenariat avec l’Académie du Design et de l’Innovation, Maurice : Tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour délivrer des messages forts et influents afin de promouvoir un mode de vie sain et de sensibiliser sur la prévention et le dépistage précoce du Diabète et de l’Hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2025.

  1. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2025 : Tous les cinéastes africains, les étudiants des institutions de formation cinématographique ou les jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un FILM long ou court, qu’il s’agisse d’une fiction, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame délivrant des messages influents pour promouvoir un mode de vie sain, sensibiliser sur la prévention et le dépistage précoce du Diabète et de l’Hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2025.

  1. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2025 : Tous les chanteurs et artistes de musique africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but de promouvoir un mode de vie sain et de sensibiliser sur la prévention et le dépistage précoce du Diabète et de l’Hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2025.

Les candidatures pour les prix ci-dessus peuvent nous être envoyées à l’adresse :
submit@merck-foundation.com

Pour plus d’informations sur les prix, veuillez consulter notre site web :
www.Merck-Foundation.com

Distribué par APO Group pour Merck Foundation.

Contact :
Mehak Handa
Responsable du programme de sensibilisation communautaire
Téléphone : +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Courriel : mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Rejoignez la conversation sur nos plateformes de réseaux sociaux ci-dessous et faites entendre votre voix :
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Télécharger l’Application de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/4mxyhEG

À propos de la Fondation Merck :
La Fondation Merck, créée en 2017, est la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, vise à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des populations et à faire progresser leur vie grâce à la science et à la technologie. Nos efforts sont principalement axés sur l’amélioration de l’accès à des solutions de soins de santé de qualité et équitables dans les communautés mal desservies, à renforcer les capacités de recherche sur les soins de santé et la recherche scientifique, l’autonomisation des filles à travers l’éducation et l’autonomisation des personnes en STEM (Science, Technologie, Ingénierie et Mathématiques) avec un accent particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes. Tous les communiqués de presse de la Fondation Merck sont distribués par e-mail en même temps qu’ils deviennent disponibles sur le site Web de la Fondation Merck. Veuillez visiter www.Merck-Foundation.com pour en savoir plus. Pour en savoir plus, contactez nos réseaux sociaux de la Fondation Merck : Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3J6zTGO), X (https://apo-opa.co/3J4wuZ6), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4fzeIcQ), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4mwWQ4z), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3Uhy38A) et Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4foQguF).

La Fondation Merck se consacre à l’amélioration des résultats sociaux et sanitaires pour les communautés dans le besoin. Bien qu’elle collabore avec divers partenaires, y compris des gouvernements, pour atteindre ses objectifs humanitaires, la fondation reste strictement neutre sur le plan politique. Elle ne s’engage pas et ne soutient pas d’activités, d’élections ou de régimes politiques, se focalise uniquement sur sa mission d’élever l’humanité et d’améliorer le bien-être tout en maintenant une position strictement apolitique dans toutes ses activités.

Media files

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Merck Foundation conducts their Health Media training for Mauritian Journalists together with the Minister of Gender Equality & Family Welfare

Source: APO

  • Merck Foundation CEO met the H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius to share the impact of their 100 Scholarships for Mauritian Doctors in partnership with Ministry of Health.
  • Dr. Rasha Kelej also met Hon’ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius to share the impact of their programs and underscore their long-term commitment to address critical social issues in Mauritius and launch their Educating Linda project to support the education of 20 high-performing yet underprivileged Mauritian schoolgirls.  

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany conducted the Fourth Edition of their “Merck Foundation Health Media Training” in partnership with Ministry of Gender Equality & Family Welfare, Mauritius. The training session was co-chaired by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Hon’ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign shared, “I strongly believed in the power of media, and that role it plays a significant role in shaping our society. I have always said that Media enters every home, even without an invitation. Therefore, journalists can make a difference through their day-to-day work and create a cultural shift by raising awareness about social and health issues like Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Stopping GBV and raising awareness about early detection and prevention of Diabetes & Hypertension.”

Through our Health Media Training we aim to empower the journalists to break the silence and be the voice of the voiceless, by providing them access to information.”

Merck Foundation Health Media Training is a part of ‘Merck Foundation More than a Mother’ Community Awareness Program. The training was addressed by a panel of eminent personalities from the fields of Fertility, Psychiatry, Diabetes, and media stalwarts and was attended by Mauritian journalists from Print, TV, Radio, and Online media platforms. The esteemed panel also addressed queries from the attendees.

During her visit, she also met H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius, to share the impact of their 100 Scholarships for Mauritian Doctors in 42 critical and under-served specialties, in partnership with Ministry of Health.

“It was a great honor to meet H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius and share with him the impact of our partnership and programs since 2017 that aim to transform patient care, build healthcare and media capacity, to empower women in STEM, support girl education and raise awareness about social and health issues in Mauritius and the rest of Africa. We are strongly committed to work closely with Ministry of Health to improve access to innovative and equitable healthcare solutions”, shared Dr. Kelej. 

She also met Hon’ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius.

“I am very happy to share that together with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, we are launching our Educating Linda Program in the country, as a part of which we will be supporting the education of 20 high performing yet underprivileged Mauritian schoolgirls, till they graduate. Through this, we will be empowering them to complete their studies and reach their full potential.” She shared.

The 100 scholarships for local Mauritian Doctors have been provided for One-Year PG Diploma and Two-year Master Degrees in many critical specialties including Fertility, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Oncology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Acute Medicine, Respiratory, Gastroenterology, Dermatology, Neuroimaging for Research, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Clinical Microbiology and infectious diseases, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Ophthalmology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, Critical Care, Neonatal Medicine, Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Advanced Cytopathology and many more.

Merck Foundation has so far provided more than 2280 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, with many of them becoming the first specialists in their countries.

During the Merck Foundation Health Media Training session, the Call for Application for 8 important Merck Foundation Awards were announced for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

The award announced are:

  1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.

  1.  Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”, in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”, in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at:
submit@merck-foundation.com

For information on the above awards, please visit our website:
www.Merck-Foundation.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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/3J6zTGO
X: https://apo-opa.co/3J4wuZ6
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4mwWQ4z
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4fzeIcQ
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4foQguF
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4mxyhEG

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/3J6zTGO), X (https://apo-opa.co/3J4wuZ6), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4fzeIcQ), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4mwWQ4z), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3Uhy38A) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4foQguF).

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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Radisson Blu named “Africa’s Leading Hotel Brand” for the fourth consecutive year

Source: APO

Radisson Blu has once again secured top honors at the World Travel Awards Africa, taking the title of “Africa’s Leading Hotel Brand” for 2025. This win marks the fourth consecutive year the upperupscale brand has claimed the region’s most prestigious hospitality award, reinforcing its position as an industry leader across the continent. At the same ceremony, Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) properties picked up 14 more trophies, led by Africa’s Leading Conference Hotel for Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali and swept country awards in Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Kenya, Mali, Niger, Rwanda, and Senegal. 

A heritage of design, service, and growth 

The Group’s journey began in 1960 with the opening of the world’s first designer hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark. That hotel, now the Radisson Collection Royal Hotel, Copenhagen, is still operating successfully. Since then, Radisson Hotel Group has expanded to ten distinctive brands, with Radisson Blu at its core. In Africa, the Group entered in 2000 with the opening of Radisson Blu Hotel, Waterfront in Cape Town. which has now transitioned to Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town. 

Accelerating across Africa 

Over the past fifteen months, the Group has signed eleven hotels and opened seven, bringing its African portfolio to 100 hotels in more than 30 countries and cementing its status as the continent’s most active international operator.  Radisson Blu continues to drive much of that momentum, from Casablanca to Cape Town. Recent highlights include the opening of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Conakry, just three months after signing, as well as new signings, including the Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments, Yaoundé. Scheduled to open by the end of 2026, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Kinshasa is opening late 2026 

“Our teams live and breathe purposeful hospitality, and this award shows how consistently they deliver,” says Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia Pacific at Radisson Hotel Group. “Winning four years in a row isn’t luck. It reflects a clear strategy, strong local partnerships, and a brand culture that turns every stay into a memorable moment. We’re already the most diverse hotel company on the continent, operating in more than 30 African countries, and we’re just getting started. Africa sits at the heart of our growth plans, and guests can expect even more thoughtfully designed Radisson Blu hotels to open their doors soon.” 

Looking ahead 

Across its ten brands, Radisson Hotel Group, is on track to reaching 150 hotels by 2030 in Africa and will continue to pair global standards with genuine local insight. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Caroline Jonsson
Area Manager, Corporate PR, Middle East, Africa, Mediterranean & Southeast Asia Pacific
Radisson Hotel Group
caroline.jonsson@radissonhotels.com

Connect with Radisson Hotels on: 
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3J5Sjru
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3JllhDy
X: https://apo-opa.co/4lbT3bH
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4maTC78
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/46Hf6DH 
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/3UNjJ7N 

RADISSON HOTEL GROUP:
Radisson Hotel Group is a rapidly expanding international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with over 1,575 hotels in operation and under development in +100 countries. The Group’s overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. 

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.  

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/3UhserD) is Radisson Hotel Group’s loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter, counting more than 20 million members. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.co/3HnrXR1) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely Carbon Compensated.  

At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.co/4fomVjM) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as carbon compensated Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. 

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group’s portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. 

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.co/4fnvuLH).

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Deputy President Mashatile to deliver remarks at the dialogue with the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile in his capacity as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on matters raised by traditional leaders, will on Friday, 08 August 2025, deliver remarks during a dialogue between Government and the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL).

The NHTKL is a statutory body established to represent and advance the aspirations of traditional leaders and their rural communities at national level. It comprises of traditional leaders who are delegates from the Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders of South Africa.

The dialogue follows the official opening of the NHTKL by President Cyril Ramaphosa in February this year. It aims to strengthen collaboration between Government and traditional leaders in addressing rural challenges and agree on a clear path that empowers the institution to fulfil its mandate.

In this regard, the dialogue will be based on five pillars, namely: advancing land ownership, tenure rights and fast-tracking socio-economic development of rural communities; building institutional capacity and ensuring support to traditional leaders; promoting unity, social cohesion and nation building in rural communities; advancing infrastructure investment and skills development in rural communities and fast-tracking the finalisation of policy, legislative and constitutional matters.

The Deputy President will be joined by the Ministers appointed by the President to serve on the Inter-Ministerial Task Team, as well as senior government officials.

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the event as follows:
Date: Friday, 08 August 2025
Time: 09h00 (Media to arrive at 08h00)
Venue: Tshwane House (City of Tshwane Headquaters and Council Chamber), Pretoria

Members of the media are kindly requested to confirm attendance with Ms Tshiamo Selomo (The Presidency) on 066 118 1505 or Ms Khanya Makhanya (NHTKL) on 082 619 9280.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to Deputy President Mashatile on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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United Arab Emirates (UAE) leaders congratulate President of Côte d’Ivoire on Independence Day

Source: APO


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President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a congratulatory message to President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire on the occasion of his country’s Independence Day.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, dispatched similar messages to President Ouattara and to Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation signs a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of Vietnam to enhance economic development between the two countries

Source: APO


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H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen cooperation in the field of economic development with Ms. Phan Thi Thang, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam during the summit held by H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, with his counterpart, H.E. Luong Cuong, President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

The MoU comes in recognition of the importance of cooperation in economic development as a driving force to promote social and economic development in both countries, based on economic development and the mutual commitment to sustainable development by both sides, and a desire to strengthen the bonds of friendship and enhance cooperation between the two countries, create favorable conditions for achieving sustainable development, and diversify economic and international cooperation, especially strengthening bilateral cooperation in economic, trade, and investment fields.

H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat emphasized the importance of the Joint Committee between Egypt and Vietnam as a mechanism for cooperation in promoting economic development and international cooperation between the two countries. During the past five sessions, the Committee has played an important role over the past five sessions in consolidating bilateral economic relations as a platform for constructive dialogue between the governments and the business communities on both sides.

H.E. explained that the signed MoU opens new avenues, in light of the comprehensive partnership between the two countries, to enhance and deepen bilateral economic and trade relations, and to develop cooperation in several fields including digital economy, climate change and green development, renewable energy, localizing industry, and logistics services, with the effective participation of the private sector, forming a promising platform for joint initiatives.

Moreover, the agreement includes working in the areas of policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, capacity building, and sharing successful policies and practices in the agreed-upon fields, which comes within the framework of strong cooperative relations between the two countries and in light of the two sides’ interest in the importance of knowledge as the cornerstone that links the two countries, and within the framework of South-South economic cooperation.

During the visit, the Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation held a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam, where the two sides discussed mechanisms for implementing the outcomes of the meeting between the leaders of the two countries to strengthen bilateral economic relations, as well as preparations for holding the 6th session of the Joint Committee.

It is worth noting that Egyptian-Vietnamese relations date back to the 1960s. In 1997, an agreement was signed to form a joint ministerial committee between the two countries, within the framework of which 5 sessions have been held to date. Vietnam is one of the founding members of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). In 2017, H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, visited Vietnam as the first visit of an Egyptian president to the Republic of Vietnam, and the visit witnessed the signing of several joint cooperation documents.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.