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Inauguration d’une Nouvelle Clinique Dentaire et pose de la première pierre du Centre de Formation à l’Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Une avancée déterminante pour la formation dentaire et l’accès aux soins bucco-dentaires au Sénégal a été célébrée ce week-end au sein du Département d’Odontologie de l’Université Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD) à Dakar. Mercy Ships (www.Mercyships.org), en partenariat avec l’Institut d’Odontologie et de Stomatologie (IOS), le Ministère de la Santé et de l’Action sociale, et d’autres acteurs clés, a inauguré une toute nouvelle clinique dentaire et officiellement posé la première pierre d’un futur centre de formation dentaire, deux projets majeurs qui visent à transformer la formation et les soins dentaires dans le pays. 

La cérémonie a réuni des représentants de haut niveau du gouvernement, du monde universitaire, du secteur de la santé, ainsi que des responsables de Mercy Ships. Cet évènement a témoigné d’un engagement partagé centré sur l’amélioration des services de santé bucco-dentaire au Sénégal. 

« Ces deux infrastructures répondent à plusieurs objectifs : renforcer les capacités nationales, améliorer l’accès à des soins bucco-dentaires de qualité, tout en intégrant pleinement la formation initiale à la pratique clinique encadrée », a déclaré Serigne Mbaye, Secrétaire Général du Ministère de la Santé et de l’Action sociale. 

La clinique de prothèses dentaires rénovée, désormais opérationnelle, est équipée de 10 fauteuils dentaires et d’une salle de radiologie dédiée. 

« Ce jour marque le lancement concret d’une initiative ambitieuse de santé publique, fondée sur les valeurs essentielles de dignité, de solidarité et d’accès équitable aux soins », a confirmé le Professeur Bara Ndiaye, Doyen de la Faculté de Médecine, Pharmacie et Odontologie. 

Le second chantier d’envergure est le centre de formation dentaire, dont la construction sera achevée d’ici deux ans. Il comprendra 30 fauteuils dentaires, qui permettront de développer la spécialisation dans toute la sous-région, représentant une avancée majeure en matière de formation et de services cliniques. 

« Cette collaboration reflète l’engagement à long terme de Mercy Ships de renforcer durablement des capacités sanitaires au Sénégal et en Afrique de l’Ouest », a indiqué David Ugai, Directeur de Mercy Ships en Guinée.  

Ce tournant est le fruit d’un partenariat solide entre Mercy Ships, l’UCAD, et les institutions nationales de santé et d’éducation, tous réunis autour d’un objectif commun : former une nouvelle génération de professionnels dentaires et élargir l’accès à des soins bucco-dentaires de qualité pour tous. 

Distribué par APO Group pour Mercy Ships.

Contact presse : 
Gilchrist Koutob, 
Directeur du Centre Opérationnel de Mercy Ships en Afrique 
gilchrist.koutob@mercyships.org 

À PROPOS DE MERCY SHIPS : 
Mercy Ships est une organisation humanitaire internationale qui déploie les deux plus grands navires-hôpitaux civils au monde, l’Africa Mercy et le Global Mercy, pour fournir des soins de santé gratuits et de première qualité aux plus démunis. L’ONG internationale soutient également le développement des systèmes de santé des pays hôtes par la formation des professionnels de la santé et la rénovation d’infrastructures. Fondé en Suisse en 1978 par Don et Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships est intervenu dans 55 pays. A bord de ses navires, une moyenne de 2 500 bénévoles par an, issus de 60 pays, contribuent à l’œuvre de Mercy Ships. Des professionnels tels que chirurgiens, dentistes, personnel infirmier, formateurs dans le domaine de la santé, cuisiniers, marins, ingénieurs et agriculteurs dédient leur temps et leurs compétences à cette cause. Avec des bureaux dans 16 pays et un Centre opérationnel pour l’Afrique basé à Dakar, au Sénégal, Mercy Ships se met au service des nations en restaurant santé et dignité. 

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Letsike condemns school bullying incident

Source: Government of South Africa

Letsike condemns school bullying incident

Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, has condemned the viral video depicting a schoolgirl being assaulted.

The video, which has been widely circulated on social media platforms, shows the girl being humiliated and physically assaulted by boys from her school on a school bus. The assault continued even after she had disembarked. 

Letsike described the incident as “appalling” and a stark reminder of the pervasive gender-based violence (GBV) within communities and schools.

“No child deserves to endure such brutality, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our schools are safe havens for learning and growth,” Letsike said.

The Deputy Minister has called on the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to take swift and decisive action, including a full investigation into the incident, disciplinary measures against the perpetrators, and immediate enforcement of anti-bullying laws, as part of the Code of Conduct for all learners.

She also urged the DBE to implement comprehensive prevention programmes to prevent both bullying and acts of GBV in schools.

“This incident should intensify a call to all stakeholders to take immediate action to protect our children and create safe and respectful school environments. We will work tirelessly with the Department of Basic Education, all stakeholders, including parents and educators,” Letsike said.

Letsike emphasised the need for greater vigilance from adults, including parents and teachers, in identifying warning signs and addressing problems promptly.

“Learners must feel safe at school. Parents and other adults can help learners who suffer at the hands of bullies,” she said, adding that schools should be free from violence and GBV. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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Premier commends KZN law enforcement efforts 

Source: Government of South Africa

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has commended law enforcement agencies across the province for their efforts to keep communities safe.

This follows the recent high-impact, intelligence-driven operations by the South African Police Service (SAPS), which have led to major breakthroughs in several high-profile murder investigations.

The arrest of former municipal manager of the uMzimkhulu Local Municipality, Stanley Skhosana, in connection with the 2017 murder of former African National Congress councillor, Sindiso Magaqa was commended. The arrest was executed by the SAPS Political Task Killings Task Team.

“Skhosana’s arrest represents a major development in a case that drew national attention and renewed calls for justice in politically motivated killings,” Ntuli said.

Another key development includes the arrest of two suspects linked to the 2023 assassination of Democratic Alliance councillor and uMngeni Local Municipality Chief Whip, Nhlayenza Mdlovu.

“This is a substantial step toward solving one of the most high-profile political killings in the province,” the Premier said.

Police also apprehended two suspects in connection with the murder of Nokulunga Happiness Mashabane, a 31-year-old official from the KwaDukuza Local Municipality, who was found dead in her vehicle along Zinkwazi Link Road in June. 

Mashabane sustained gunshot wounds to the head.

The arrest follows an intensive investigation led by KwaDukuza police detectives, in partnership with a private security firm, which led to the arrest of Mashabane’s husband.  

A second suspect was later identified and apprehended. Both suspects were arrested on 30 July 2025.
Ntuli commended the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, and all dedicated officers for their professionalism, resolve, and courage.

“These arrests are a clear message to criminals—there is no hiding place. We are reclaiming our communities and restoring the rule of law. KwaZulu-Natal will not be a sanctuary for violence, impunity, or intimidation.”

The Premier emphasised the Provincial Government’s continued prioritisation of justice for victims of violence, particularly women, children, and political leaders targeted for their service. 

The Premier reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing justice for victims of crime, particularly women, children, and political leaders who are targeted for their service to the public.

“We remain fully committed to ending gender-based violence, political killings, and all other forms of violent crime. There can be no true freedom while our communities live in fear. Our vision is a province where every citizen—regardless of age or gender- can walk freely in peace, dignity, and safety.”
Ntuli also urged citizens to work hand in hand with law enforcement and play an active role in building safer communities.

“We urge all citizens to report suspicious activity, cooperate with investigations, and support our police. Together, we can defeat crime, break the cycle of violence, and build a KwaZulu-Natal rooted in peace, justice, and unity,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Liquid Intelligent Technologies launches Business Internet Access to support the growth journey of South African businesses

Source: APO

Liquid Intelligent Technologies (Liquid) (https://Liquid.Tech/), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader of African heritage, has announced the launch of its Business Internet Access (BIA) service in South Africa. Designed to meet the demands of modern businesses of all sizes, BIA is a next-generation connectivity solution engineered to provide cost-effective internet access without the cost and complexity of Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) services. 

A distinguishing feature of the product is that organisations have access to an exclusive, dedicated internet line, ensuring consistent speed for critical operations. This is reinforced by a Service Level Agreement (SLA) and a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week, 365-day-a-year helpdesk, which minimises expensive downtime and ensures business continuity and peace of mind. Included in the SLA is up to 99% uptime, ensuring minimal disruption to critical operations. 

“Connectivity is no longer a luxury for businesses that require reliable, high-speed internet to maintain uninterrupted operations. With the launch of BIA through our connectivity business, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, we’re ensuring that we support South African companies of all sizes to ensure the continuous growth of our economy.  This is more than a product launch; it’s yet another milestone achieved to ensure that we leave no South African behind,” said Ziaad Suleman, Chief Executive Officer of Cassava Technologies in South Africa and Botswana. 

Recognising the critical importance of cyber security for businesses, every BIA connection includes Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) visibility reporting as a standard feature. This proactive feature provides insights into potential DDoS threats targeting networks, empowering businesses to make informed cyber security decisions and proactively strengthen their defences against future attacks.

Powered by Liquid’s wholly owned and managed network, the launch of BIA as an offering specifically aimed at supporting businesses, and even SMEs on their growth journeys, reflects the organisation’s purpose of empowering businesses to thrive through digital solutions. This cost-effective offering delivers enterprise-grade performance, reliability, and support, reinforcing the company’s position as a leading provider of technology services in South Africa, offering scalable, high-performance tools tailored to business realities.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

Liquid Intelligent Technologies:
Liquid Intelligent Technologies is a business of Cassava Technologies (Cassava), a technology company of African heritage with operations in 40-plus markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where the Cassava group companies operate. Liquid has firmly established itself as the leading provider of pan-African digital infrastructure with a 110,000 km-long fibre broadband network and satellite connectivity that provides high-speed access to the Internet anywhere in Africa. Liquid is also leveraging its digital network to provide Cloud and Cyber Security solutions through strategic partnerships with leading global players. Liquid is a comprehensive technology solutions group that provides customised digital solutions to public and private sector enterprises and SMEs across the continent. For more information, visit https://Liquid.Tech/.

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Inauguration of New Dental Clinic and Groundbreaking of Dental Training Center at Cheikh Anta Diop University

Source: APO


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A landmark moment for dental education and access to oral healthcare in Senegal was celebrated this weekend at the Department of Dentistry of Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD) in Dakar. Mercy Ships (www.Mercyships.org), in partnership with the Institute of Odontology and Stomatology (IOS), the Ministry of Health and Social Action, and other key stakeholders, inaugurated a brand-new dental clinic and officially laid the foundation stone for a new dental training center, two major projects aimed at transforming dental training and care in Senegal. 

The ceremony brought together senior representatives from government, academia, the healthcare sector, and Mercy Ships. The event marked both a celebration and a shared commitment to improving oral health services in the country. 

“These two infrastructures meet multiple objectives: strengthening national capacities, improving access to quality oral care, by fully integrating initial training into supervised clinical practice,” said Serigne Mbaye, Secretary General of the Ministry of Health and Social Action. 

The newly renovated prosthodontics clinic, now fully operational, is equiped with 10 dental chairs and a dedicated radiology room. 

“Today marks the tangible launch of an ambitious public health initiative, founded on the core values of dignity, solidarity, and equitable access to healthcare,” stated Professor Bara Ndiaye, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry. 

The second major development is the upcoming dental training center, designed to further strengthen training infrastructure. Once completed within the next two years, the center will offer 30 dental chairs for increasing specialization for the sub-region, creating a significant boost in both educational and clinical services. 

“This collaboration reflects Mercy Ships’ long-term commitment to sustainable healthcare capacity building in Senegal and across West Africa,” said David Ugai, Country Director for Guinea at Mercy Ships. 

This milestone is a direct result of a strong partnership between Mercy Ships, UCAD, and national health and education institutions, working together toward the shared goal of empowering a new generation of dental professionals and expanding access to quality oral healthcare for all. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.

For more information: 
Gilchrist Koutob
Managing Director of the Mercy Ships Africa Service Center. 
gilchrist.koutob@mercyships.org

ABOUT MERCY SHIPS:    
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with nations in Africa for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.  

Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy and the Global Mercy. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit www.Mercyships.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.  

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Blockchain Fintech Shiga Digital Empowers African Businesses to Leverage Digital Finance Tools

Source: APO


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Shiga Digital (https://Shiga.io), a rapidly growing blockchain-based fintech company, is transforming how African businesses access modern financial services. Today, the company announced the launch of its new Android and iOS apps, expanding access to its end-to-end digital finance platform for businesses and individuals across the continent.

With this milestone, Shiga Digital makes it easier than ever for businesses and individuals to send and receive stablecoin payments, manage cross-border transactions, and access secure digital asset investments all from the convenience of a mobile device.

The launch follows a recent strategic partnership and investment from Tether, the global leader in digital assets and issuer of the world’s most widely used stablecoin. This collaboration marks a major step in scaling blockchain adoption across Africa and signals growing international confidence in the continent’s fintech landscape.

“Africa is on the cusp of a financial transformation, and at Tether, we believe in being more than just observers; we are active enablers,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “Our strategic alliance with Shiga Digital is rooted in a shared belief that access to stable, secure, and scalable financial tools should not be a privilege, but a right. This partnership represents a long-term commitment to equipping African businesses with the technology and infrastructure needed to thrive in an increasingly digital global economy. Together, we are unlocking new pathways for growth and innovation and helping to shape a more inclusive financial future for the continent.”

Shiga Digital’s platform was built for African businesses, especially mid-sized companies seeking alternatives to legacy financial systems. By integrating blockchain-based tools, the company simplifies payments, enables faster cross-border trade, and offers transparent access to stable, secure digital finance.

“We’re not just building tech, we’re building financial infrastructure that works for Africa,” said Abiola Shogbeni, Co-Founder and CEO of Shiga Digital. “Our new mobile apps are a major step in our mission to level the playing field. They bring intuitive, locally relevant financial tools right into the hands of business owners, wherever they are.”

Shiga Digital partners with licensed financial transmitters in each of its markets to ensure its services are fully compliant, locally relevant, and aligned with applicable regulatory requirements.

“What sets us apart is how and why we’re building,” added Dami Etomi, Co-Founder and COO. “This isn’t just about technology… It’s about creating solutions that scale impact. Our partnership with Tether goes beyond financial backing; it’s a shared commitment to the future of finance in Africa.”

As more African businesses adopt blockchain-powered financial tools, Shiga Digital is positioning itself at the forefront of this movement, offering a platform built to meet local needs, backed by global standards.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Shiga Digital.

Contact:
Daniel Okechukwu
+2348067499714
daniel@shiga.io

About Shiga Digital:
Founded in 2021, Shiga Digital is an international fintech company developing innovative blockchain financial applications. With operations across 15+ countries, the company bridges the gap between traditional finance and decentralized systems making digital finance more accessible, secure, and efficient for African businesses and individuals.

To learn more or download the app, visit https://Shiga.io or download the app on the Apple AppStore and Google Play Store (http://apo-opa.co/4mfqrza).

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Morocco: His Majesty (HM) the King Congratulates Niger’s Head of State on National Day

Source: APO – Report:

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His Majesty King Mohammed VI sent a message of congratulations to General Abdourahamane Tiani, President of the Republic of Niger and Head of State, on the occasion of his country’s national day.

In this message, the Sovereign expresses His congratulations and warmest wishes for the happiness and prosperity of the Nigerien people.

On this occasion, His Majesty the King welcomes the excellent relations of brotherhood and solidarity between the two countries, assuring the Head of State of Niger of Morocco’s constant willingness to work alongside the Republic of Niger in favor of solid and ambitious cooperation, to the benefit of both peoples and the African continent.

– on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

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Qatar Strongly Condemns Settlers’ Storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque Complex

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – August 4, 2025

The State of Qatar strongly condemns the storming of the courtyards of the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque by dozens of Israeli settlers, led by the Minister of National Security in the occupation government. Qatar considers this act a blatant violation of international law and a provocation to the sentiments of Muslims worldwide.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns against the continued violations against the Palestinian people and their Islamic and Christian holy sites, stressing that such actions will only escalate violence in the region. The Ministry also underscores the responsibility of the international community to uphold its moral and legal obligations regarding Jerusalem and its sacred sites.

The Ministry reiterates Qatar’s firm position in support of the just cause of the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights, including the full right to freely practice their religious rituals and to establish an independent state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

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VUKA Group and Ministry of Energy announces C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia 2025: A multi-year commitment to Zambia’s energy sector

Source: APO

VUKA Group (www.WeAreVUKA.com), a leading organizer of transformative industry events across Africa, is excited to announce the C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia 2025 (http://apo-opa.co/45yB1vI), taking place on 27-28 August 2025 at The Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka.

Delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Energy of Zambia, this landmark event is tailored specifically for Zambia’s commercial, industrial and large power user sectors. As part of VUKA Group’s Power and Energy Portfolio, the summit marks the start of a multi-year strategy to empower Zambia’s C&I sectors with sustainable, reliable and innovative energy solutions.

The C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia is a premier platform designed to address the unique energy challenges faced by Zambia’s commercial, industrial and agricultural large energy users, including sectors such as retail, manufacturing, agriculture, property development and energy-intensive industries like mining. With grid power increasingly impacted by changing rainfall patterns and rising energy costs impacting business operations, this summit brings together industry leaders, project owners, innovators and financiers to foster energy independence, security and sustainability across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

“The focus of the C&I Energy + Storage Summit aligns very closely with the focus areas of the National Energy Compact for Zambia” says the Honourable Minister of Energy, Minister Makozo Chikote. “To support our ambition of becoming a middle-income nation by 2030, the Government has set out an aggressive economic diversification and industrialisation agenda driven by the agriculture, mining, manufacturing and tourism sectors. This event supports these objectives. Energy is a key enabler for the planned economic and industrial transformation and it should be led by the private sector with the Government ensuring an enabling and supportive environment through the delivery of appropriate policy and regulatory frameworks.”

“We are honoured to be working with the Minister of Energy of Zambia, to drive impactful discussions and collaborations and support the vision set forth in the National Energy Compact,” shared Chanelle Hingston, Portfolio Director of VUKA Group’s Power and Energy Portfolio.

A multi-year commitment to Zambia’s C&I sector

VUKA Group is committed to delivering the C&I Energy + Storage Summit to Zambia as part of a long-term strategy to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy and storage solutions for the C&I sector. By fostering collaboration between businesses, government and solution providers, the C&I Energy + Storage Summit aims to create a sustainable energy ecosystem that supports Zambia’s economic growth and industrial resilience. “Zambia’s C&I sector is critical to the nation’s economic development, and our multi-year commitment ensures that this summit will deliver actionable insights, strategic partnerships, and cutting-edge technologies to transform the energy landscape,” Hingston continued.

Event Highlights

The two-day summit will feature a robust programme of keynotes, masterclasses, case studies and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of Zambia’s C&I energy users:

  • Day 1 (27 August 2025): The summit opens with a keynote moderated by Dr. Johnstone Chikwanda, Global Ambassador of Energy and Climate Change, Forum of African Traditional Authorities (FATA), followed by case studies from early adopters, showcasing success stories from embedded generation projects. A panel discussion on derisking business continuity will feature Helen Zulu, Zambia Country Director, ENGIE Energy Access, and Chabuka Kawesha, Vice President, Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
  • Day 2 (28 August 2025): The day begins with a plenary and keynote with a strong focus on the Open Access regulation, released by the Ministry and ERB in February 2025. Masterclasses will cover grid capacity and clean energy technologies, while solar PV and storage implementation and safety and sustainable asset management, make up other topics of interest. Closing remarks will explore the future of storage for hydro-dependent nations, addressing battery storage, climate impacts and supporting investment frameworks.

Industry Support and Partnerships

The summit is proudly delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Energy of Zambia and endorsed by key industry associations, including the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), Zambian Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), Energy Regulatory Board, Zesco, and the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI). Industry partners such as EnerJ (Gold Sponsor), WEG, and Vertiv (Bronze Sponsors) join media partners like ESI Africa, Engineering News, and the Green Economy Journal to amplify the event’s impact.

Exclusive Hosted Buyer Programme for C&I Energy Users

The Hosted Buyer Programme offers pre-qualified C&I organizations in Zambia a premium, no-cost opportunity to connect with technology providers, financiers and partners. Specifically designed for large energy users in manufacturing, mining, agriculture, retail and logistics, this initiative provides direct access to practical guidance and strategic connections to advance energy projects, from embedded generation to power purchase agreements (PPAs) and storage solutions. Commercial, industrial and agricultural businesses are invited to explore the programme and apply at: https://apo-opa.co/4o2P6Zr. *Application to the hosted buyer programme does not automatically imply acceptance.

Why Attend?

The C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia is a must-attend event for commercial, industrial, and agricultural large energy users seeking to:

  • Explore scalable solutions: Dive into power generation options, credible technologies and financial models for independent generation and storage.
  • Navigate regulatory changes: Gain insights into Zambia’s open-access electricity framework and resulting opportunities for the C&I market.
  • Build strategic partnerships: Network with solution providers, investors and peers to drive energy projects forward.
  • Mitigate risks: Learn from experts and case studies to derisk financial and technical challenges in energy project implementation.

Join us

Commercial, industrial and agricultural large energy users are invited to visit https://apo-opa.co/4lZw5pr for more information, and to review the full summit agenda. Seize this opportunity to elevate your energy strategy and shape the future of Zambia’s C&I sectors.

Register now: https://apo-opa.co/4lxHyMH
For sponsorship or hosted buyer inquiries, contact Marcel du Toit: marcel.dutoit@wearevka.com
For speaking opportunities, contact Babalwa Bungane: babalwa.bungane@wearevka.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Media Contact:
Natalie Simms
natalie.simms@wearevka.com

About VUKA Group:
As part of the Power and Energy Portfolio, VUKA Group is a premier organizer of conferences, exhibitions, and events across Africa, delivering tailored platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and business development in energy and related sectors. With over 25 years of experience, VUKA Group connects industries, sparks innovation, and fuels economic growth across the continent. Learn more at https://WeAreVUKA.com.

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Transformer la poussière en espoir : les barrages érythréens revitalisent la terre

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Dans les villages de l’intérieur aride de l’Érythrée, le changement s’opère. Là où les rivières saisonnières débordaient et disparaissaient sans laisser de traces, des barrages construits à la main retiennent aujourd’hui une eau précieuse. Les canaux d’irrigation alimentent les cultures même pendant les mois secs.

L’Érythrée, l’un des pays de la Corne de l’Afrique les plus exposés à la sécheresse, a adopté une approche simple pour faire face à la pénurie d’eau : la construction de barrages, e de petites structures en maçonnerie construites avec des matériaux locaux par les communautés.

Grâce à l’assistance technique et au financement concessionnel de la Banque africaine de développement, l’Érythrée a construit ou remis en état plus de 880 de ces petits barrages, la plupart dans des zones rurales mal desservies. En conséquence, les communautés qui ont longtemps été tributaires de précipitations irrégulières envisagent désormais l’avenir avec une confiance et un enthousiasme renouvelé.

Bekit Idris se souvient d’une vie marquée par des craintes constantes de pénurie alimentaire et de malnutrition avant qu’un barrage ne soit construit près de sa région natale de Guritata, dans le centre de l’Érythrée. « Nos récoltes dépendaient de la pluie, explique-t-il. Les pluies étaient devenues de plus en plus irrégulières et inégalement réparties, mais grâce au projet, j’ai pu cultiver des terres en aval du barrage ». Bekit Idris cultive désormais des céréales, des légumes, des fruits et du fourrage vert pour nourrir le bétail.

« Je récolte maintenant trois fois par an, alors qu’auparavant je ne récoltais qu’une fois par an, poursuit Bekit Idris. Avant la construction du barrage, notre production alimentaire suffisait à peine à nos besoins… Aujourd’hui, je produis suffisamment non seulement pour nourrir ma famille, mais aussi pour vendre au marché. Cela a grandement amélioré notre nutrition et le revenu de notre ménage. »

Depuis 2015, la Banque africaine de développement soutient cet effort par le biais du Programme de résilience à la sécheresse et de moyens de subsistance durables, qui vise à réduire la vulnérabilité dans la Corne de l’Afrique. En Érythrée, le projet a financé la construction de 98 barrages de petite et moyenne taille et de 11 points d’eau connexes. Il a également permis de réhabiliter plus de 200 hectares de terres dégradées.

L’amélioration de la disponibilité de l’eau n’est qu’un des résultats tangibles. En outre, le projet a permis aux communautés de passer d’une agriculture de subsistance à des pratiques agricoles plus durables et commerciales, améliorant ainsi la sécurité alimentaire et les moyens de subsistance dans tout le pays.

Le projet vise à construire plus de 116 barrages en maçonnerie pour soutenir l’agriculture irriguée. Les barrages ont une capacité allant de 30 000 m³ à plus de 110 000 m³, ce qui permet aux agriculteurs locaux des zones ciblées du centre, du sud et du nord de l’Érythrée de produire des quantités substantielles de légumes et de céréales.

Le projet a également encouragé la formation à de nouvelles compétences et la promotion de l’esprit d’entreprise afin de stimuler le développement global de la chaîne de valeur. En outre, le programme fournit aux agriculteurs différents types d’intrants agricoles qui leur permettent d’améliorer la production et d’augmenter la productivité par unité de surface.

Les communautés soutenues considèrent l’initiative comme un pas en avant dans les efforts plus larges de l’Érythrée pour renforcer la résilience rurale, améliorer la nutrition et réduire la pauvreté.

Hamed Meskel, un agriculteur bénéficiant du barrage d’Aderde dans la région nord, pratiquait l’irrigation à petite échelle avec une quantité d’eau limitée avant l’avènement du projet.

« Les choses s’aggravaient lentement car les puits de la région s’asséchaient. J’ai été contraint d’arrêter les cultures, mais j’ai repris. Grâce à la construction de ce barrage, l’eau est maintenant disponible », se félicite Hamed Meskel.

Fier de ses récoltes semestrielles de légumes, de fruits et de fourrage, qui ont augmenté d’environ 30 % par unité de surface, la ferme de Hamed Meskel sert également de parcelle de démonstration pour près de 350 autres ménages agricoles de la région.

Environ 73 % des Érythréens dépendent de l’agriculture et de ses domaines connexes pour leurs revenus et leur emploi.

Selon Kenneth Onyango, responsable des programmes nationaux au bureau de liaison de la Banque africaine de développement en Érythrée, « ce projet a immensément contribué à l’expansion de l’agriculture et des opportunités agro-industrielles dans les zones rurales de l’Érythrée comme moyen d’améliorer les moyens de subsistance des populations rurales et de développement économique ».

Le projet, a-t-il ajouté, est structuré autour de la participation des communautés, ce qui a permis d’atteindre les objectifs plus tôt que prévu. « Les communautés obtiennent des résultats et nous constatons que les changements dans les moyens de subsistance se traduisent par une adoption plus large de l’agriculture comme source de revenus pour de nombreux ménages dans les communautés ciblées », a souligné M. Onyango.

Le programme, qui en est à sa cinquième phase, devrait se poursuivre jusqu’en décembre 2026.

Sur le terrain, l’eau a apporté plus que de la nourriture. Les communautés acquièrent également un plus grand sentiment de sécurité dans un climat changeant. L’espoir a également pris racine.

« Nous sommes très satisfaits de cette initiative, qui a permis d’améliorer les moyens de subsistance de la communauté, conformément au plan stratégique quinquennal du ministère de l’Agriculture », a déclaré Hadgu Gebrendrias, coordinateur du programme. Il a ajouté que la construction des 98 barrages en maçonnerie, à ce jour, a encouragé la construction de nouvelles structures de conservation des sols et de l’eau sur plus de 9 800 hectares en amont des barrages dans les six régions de l’Érythrée au cours des cinq dernières années.

« Ces infrastructures ont contribué de manière significative à renforcer la résistance à la sécheresse, à améliorer les moyens de subsistance durables et à promouvoir la sécurité alimentaire et nutritionnelle, en particulier parmi les communautés pastorales et agro-pastorales d’Érythrée », a souligné M. Gebrendrias.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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