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Africa’s Gas Sector Gains Momentum through International Partnerships

Source: APO – Report:

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As the global energy landscape shifts toward cleaner fuel sources, natural gas is taking center stage in Africa’s energy transition, with international collaboration playing a key role in unlocking the continent’s vast gas potential. Africa holds approximately 6% of the world’s natural gas reserves and is expected to contribute significantly to the global LNG supply by 2030, particularly through projects in Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal and Mauritania. With global LNG demand forecast to rise at a CAGR of 1.5% through 2030, Africa is strategically positioned to meet this demand – especially from markets in Europe and Asia.

Signaling renewed investor confidence in the continent’s upstream natural gas potential, Austrian energy company OMV recently resumed exploration activities in Libya’s Sirte Basin. In partnership with Libya’s National Oil Corporation, OMV recently spudded the ESSAR well in Block C103 and is advancing an infrastructure-led campaign focused on unlocking reserves near existing production facilities. OMV will participate in this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 conference – taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town –, where the company’s Executive Vice President Berislav Gašo will join NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, in a fireside chat to explore partnership models, cross-border collaboration and strategies for enhancing investment and technical capacity across Africa.

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

With major developments underway across Libya, Algeria, Egypt and Morocco, North Africa is rapidly advancing as a natural gas powerhouse in the continent. Libya is ramping up gas production through projects like Structures A&E and Bouri Gas Utilization while Algeria targets a production rate of 200 billion cubic meters annually by 2027. Egypt is boosting output with a new licensing round and continued development of the Zohr field, while Morocco progresses with the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline to enhance regional supply.

Meanwhile, in the international space, Saudi Arabia’s growing engagement with Africa’s gas sector is emerging as a central pillar of its broader energy diplomacy strategy, with the country strengthening bilateral and multilateral partnerships to unlock gas potential across the continent. As part of this push, Saudi Arabia has prioritized infrastructure development, upstream participation and downstream collaboration, positioning itself as a long-term partner in Africa’s energy future. Saudi Arabia’s state-owned Saudi Aramco is playing a key role in advancing Saudi-Africa gas cooperation, expanding its technical collaboration with African national oil companies to support gas monetization, exploration and production. The country has also integrated natural gas into its broader financial and development strategy for Africa, with a $41 billion funding package for sub-Saharan Africa set to promote gas-related projects as part of a wider drive to expand energy access and industrial capacity.

“International engagement in Africa’s natural gas sector is fast-becoming a game-changer for the continent. By investing in infrastructure, exploration and production, regional and international players are strengthening Africa’s position in the global energy market. This kind of strategic partnership is exactly what the continent needs to full monetize its natural gas potential,” states Ayuk.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Peacekeepers provide a protective presence and essential support for struggling communities in Raja

Source: APO – Report:

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As day breaks at the United Nations base in Wau, dozens of peacekeepers are already bustling about, preparing for an important patrol to remote Deim Zubeir in the north-western corner of South Sudan.

Their mission is to assess the security and humanitarian situation in an area plagued by severe food shortages, a lack of access to clean water, healthcare and education, exacerbated by an influx of thousands of refugees and returnees fleeing the conflict in Sudan.

Having made this journey many times, the civilian and uniformed peacekeepers know there will be many challenges.

The first obstacle is the heavily damaged roads, with the convoy having to repeatedly come to a complete halt to navigate its way, one vehicle at a time, through deep pits filled with muddy floodwater. A 300-kilometer trip that should take just a few hours, takes an entire day.

Lurking in the dirty stagnant water is another threat: mosquitos carrying the deadly malaria parasite.

Several peacekeepers are infected, becoming severely ill very quickly, and requiring a medical evacuation by helicopter from Deim Zubeir later in the four-day visit.

Despite the challenges, the peacekeeping team perseveres. They meet with community members, including those who are displaced from their homes, as well as security services and local authorities.

The condition of the roads is top of the agenda, as a lack of access affects peace efforts as well as the economy.

“The road from Raja to Wau and onto the capital Juba is a lifeline for our communities. The conditions are very bad and there is a risk that, at any time during the rainy season, we can be cut off,” says County Commissioner, Addison Arkangelo Musa.

“The price of commodities is also affected, with traders complaining that they have to raise prices in the market to compensate for the cost of overcoming transportation challenges.”

“We are doing our best to carry out repairs, even mobilizing youth to carry rocks and bricks, but we need support from the State and national level with technical expertise, equipment and cement,” he says.

Also affected by the dire humanitarian situation, are the forces gathered at Dulu cantonment site, waiting to be integrated into the National Unified Forces.

“We are facing significant challenges, including a lack of food, medication and other basic services,” says Major General Musa Dakumi. “We have sent information about the situation to Juba and hope that there will be a response soon. However, we remain patient for the sake of peace.”

Building resilience is a priority for these proud communities.

“People want to be self-reliant and to contribute to the economic growth of Western Bahr El Ghazal. However, there are many challenges, including the rainy season coming two months late this year, which will impact all farmers,” says County Commissioner, Addison Arkangelo Musa.

Responding to that challenge, military peacekeepers from Bangladesh on the patrol donated packages of vegetable seeds to vulnerable community members, such as 52-year-old Khadija Matar Zubeir who fled to Sudan during the conflict in 2016 but returned to Raja when war broke out across the border.  

“In the past, farming and selling vegetables has enabled me to take care of my eight children. That is what I am trying to do again now. These seeds will help me make a fresh start and restore my dignity in supporting my own family rather than living off humanitarian aid,” she says.

“This is just a small example of our efforts to support the people of Raja to develop livelihoods, promote sustainable agricultural activities, and collectively build peace,” says Major Ataur Suzan, an UNMISS peacekeeper from Bangladesh.

– on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

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Africa speaks out: World Health Organization (WHO) consultations bring urgency and hope to health worker migration crisis

Source: APO – Report:

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When health experts across the WHO African region, logged into the virtual WHO consultation on 30 July 2025, they knew the stakes were high. Across the continent, hospitals are losing nurses to overseas recruiters, clinics are short-staffed, and young medical graduates face the dilemma of staying to serve or leaving in search of better pay.

This isn’t just policy—it’s personal.

From Praia to Port Louis, governments and health professionals are sounding the alarm: Africa is losing too many of its trained health workers to international migration. And while global demand for medical personnel has soared in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, African countries are bearing the cost.

In response, the World Health Organization’s Regional Office for Africa has launched a series of consultations with its 47 Member States to revisit the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel. First adopted in 2010, the Code was designed to ensure fairness in how countries recruit health workers across borders. But fifteen years on, it needs a refresh—and Africa is determined to shape it.

Dr Adelheid Werimo Onyango, Director of Health Systems and Services at the WHO Regional Office for Africa underscored said: “These consultations represent a critical opportunity for African countries to ensure the Code truly reflects our regional realities and priorities,” noting that “ultimately, our goal is to ensure that the Code remains not just a document on a shelf, but a living, actionable instrument that guides international recruitment in ways that strengthen Africa’s health systems.”

The consultation brought together representatives from 30 countries. Their goal: to make sure Africa’s voice is heard loud and clear when the final report goes to the 156th WHO Executive Board. The consultation was guided by three key objectives: (1) to review the findings and recommendations of the Expert Advisory Group on the Code’s current relevance and effectiveness; (2) to provide concrete recommendations for strengthening the Code’s effectiveness in addressing both current and emerging health workforce challenges in Africa and globally; and (3) to build consensus on regional priorities and peculiarities that must be reflected in the revised Code.

For many participants, the discussion hit close to home. Several spoke of empty clinics in rural districts, of experienced doctors, laboratory experts and nurses departing overnight for contracts in Europe or the Gulf, of overstretched systems trying to do more with less.

“Through your recommendations and suggestions, you are laying a solid foundation for a stronger and more equitable health workforce across Africa,” said Dr James Avoka Asamani, Health Workforce Team Lead at the WHO Regional Office for Africa stressing the importance of providing feedback.

Many referenced the Africa Health Workforce Investment Charter, which recognizes that effective migration management is vital to addressing the region’s looming shortfall of 6.1 million health workers by 2030. Countries stressed that the revised Code must go beyond principles and offer enforceable guidance, especially in the face of aggressive international recruitment.

The heart of the consultations, however, wasn’t just policy reform—it was about people.

It was about an African midwife who has trained hundreds of birth attendants, only to watch them leave for better-paying jobs abroad. It was about a young doctor torn between duty and ambition. And it was about families across Africa who deserve quality care—delivered by professionals who stay.

In the coming weeks, WHO will continue gathering input from across the region. But one thing is clear—the African region is not sitting this one out. It’s leading the conversation. Because when it comes to health worker migration, the region knows the human cost all too well—and is ready to chart a new path forward.

– on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

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Optimiser le travail des Forums locaux des droits de l’homme sur le terrain

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Les membres du Forum local des droits de l’homme (FDH) de la Haute-Kotto ont réceptionné, le 30 juillet 2025, du matériel roulant, informatique et de télécommunication. Bria a été choisie pour le lancement de cette initiative, destinée aux 14 Forums locaux des droits de l’homme à travers la RCA. Une délégation venue de Bangui et composée de représentants du Gouvernement, de l’Union européenne, de la MINUSCA et de la société civile était présente à cette occasion et a encouragé les défenseurs des droits de l’homme à poursuivre et renforcer leur engagement pour une Centrafrique exempte de violations des droits humains.

Le matériel permettra aux Forums locaux des droits de l’homme d’assurer une plus grande couverture de leur zone de responsabilité, y compris des zones isolées ou difficiles d’accès, d’assurer un meilleur partage d’informations en matière d’alertes précoces, de monitoring et de reporting des violations des droits de l’homme, de communiquer l’information de manière prompte et d’optimiser leur capacité d’intervention pour la protection des DDH.

Lancé en mai 2024, le projet de protection des défenseurs des droits de l’homme en République centrafricaine est financé par l’Union européenne et mis en œuvre par le HCDH à travers la MINUSCA. Il vise à accroître la protection de la population, en particulier des défenseurs des droits de l’homme, contre les risques de violations, conformément à la politique nationale en la matière.

Pour la responsable de la Division des droits de l’homme de la MINUSCA, Hanan Talbi, Bria a été choisie pour abriter le lancement « en raison de ses actions inlassables et courageuses dans la promotion et la protection des Droits de l’Homme ».

Le président du FDH de la Haute-Kotto, Albert Oualinga-Finet, s’en est réjoui au nom de tous les membres du Forum, assurant que ce matériel leur permettra de remplir plus efficacement leurs tâches. Il a aussi promis de continuer à travailler d’arrache-pied pour la fin des violations des droits de l’homme dans la préfecture, rappelant que « pendant les moments durs, ils ont été partout pour informer et sensibiliser à la protection et la promotion des Droits de l’Homme ».

Les participants à cette cérémonie ont reconnu qu’il y a une nette diminution des violations des droits de l’homme, grâce notamment au FDH dont le travail est traçable depuis environ cinq ans. Mais beaucoup reste à faire pour une pleine jouissance par les populations de leurs droits, notamment dans les zones reculées et difficiles d’accès.

« Plus qu’une simple dotation logistique, c’est un engagement de l’UE envers les défenseurs des droits humains en RCA pour l’État de droit et la promotion d’une gouvernance inclusive et démocratique », a dit le chef de mission de l’Union européenne en RCA, Diego Escalona Paturel. Il estime par ailleurs que « les défenseurs des droits humains sont les sentinelles silencieuses de notre conscience collective. Ils s’élèvent pour dénoncer l’injustice, documenter les abus, accompagner les victimes, sensibiliser les communautés et construire une société plus juste, plus équitable et plus humaine ».

Allant dans le même sens, Julius Ngoadé-Baba, représentant du ministre de la Justice, a rappelé que la RCA s’est dotée en 2023 d’un document stratégique de politique nationale des droits de l’homme, et a réitéré l’engagement du gouvernement à garantir la dignité, la sécurité, le bien-être et l’épanouissement de la personne humaine.

Les 14 Forums des droits de l’homme sur l’ensemble du territoire centrafricain ont une existence légale, ayant signé un accord avec le Haut-Commissariat des Nations Unies aux droits de l’homme (HCDH), représenté par la Division des droits de l’homme de la MINUSCA.

Les moyens aujourd’hui mis à leur disposition comprennent dans le cadre de ce projet sont, entre autres, une centaine d’équipements et de matériels, dont des motos, des ordinateurs et de moyens de communication téléphonique.

En plus du représentant du ministre de la Justice, du chef de mission de l’Union européenne en RCA et de la cheffe de la Division des droits de l’homme de la MINUSCA, la délégation de Bangui était constituée du président de la Commission nationale des droits de l’homme et du représentant d’Avocats sans frontières.

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

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Gwarube calls for collaboration to expand and improve ECD

Source: Government of South Africa

Gwarube calls for collaboration to expand and improve ECD

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has called on all stakeholders across government, civil society, and the private sector to take bold and coordinated action to expand access to quality Early Childhood Development (ECD) across South Africa, particularly in underserved communities. 

The Minister was giving a keynote address at the City of Cape Town’s ECD Indaba on Saturday. 

Speaking to a chamber full of ECD practitioners, Gwarube emphasised the urgent need to address systemic inequities that continue to shape the future prospects of South Africa’s children from as early as birth. 

“Two children may be born in the same country, but their chances of success diverge drastically, depending on their early years. We cannot allow a child’s destiny to be dictated by geography or birth circumstances,” the Minister said.  

Citing international benchmark tests and national assessments that show eight out of 10 Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language, the Minister underscored that foundational learning deficits begin long before children enter the school system.

“The eight out of 10 statistic is not just about reading. It’s about whether a child will grasp the curriculum, remain in school, and ultimately build a life of dignity and opportunity. The only sustainable path to improved education outcomes is to intervene earlier and inject quality from the start,” she said.

Mass registration drive for ECD centres

The Minister also reflected on the department’s ‘Bana Pele’ (Children First) mass registration drive to support ECD centres in meeting registration requirements, especially those in rural, informal, and disadvantaged communities. 

“Unregistered centres are often excluded from government subsidies, nutrition programmes, training opportunities and quality assurance support. This impacts the development and school readiness of vulnerable children,” she warned. 

This as the department will work with communities and other government departments to address infrastructure and compliance challenges, with a special focus on under-resourced areas.

Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships in Grade R 

With the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act now making Grade R compulsory, Gwarube acknowledged that no additional funding has yet been allocated to implement this mandate at scale.

“We therefore see continued collaboration with private ECD providers as not only desirable, but essential,” she said.

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) will work to ensure standardisation across public and private Grade R provision by:
•    Aligning curriculum and learning materials.
•    Requiring appropriate qualifications and South African Council for Educators (SACE) registration for Grade R teachers.
•    Expanding access to State-developed workbooks.
•    Creating pathways for accredited private centres to deliver Grade R under BELA.

Language development 

Recognising the importance of early language exposure, the Minister reaffirmed her department’s commitment to Mother-Tongue Based Bilingual Education (MTBBE) from early childhood through to the foundation phase. 

“Eighty-five percent of brain development occurs before the age of three, and language exposure during this time is the strongest predictor of academic success.

“Our children must learn in the language they understand best while building bridges to other languages of learning. This is about cognition, comprehension, and confidence,” she said. 

The department is currently piloting MTBBE programmes in several provinces, including teacher training and material development, and is encouraging ECD centres to adopt this evidence-based approach. 

Call to action

Gwarube concluded her address with a call for collective urgency during this moment of transformation. 

“We are at a moment of transformation. We have the policy, the evidence, and the partnerships. Now we must act. We must register ECD centres, standardise quality, expand infrastructure, and place the child — whether 10, three, or newborn — at the centre of every decision. That is how we build a nation from the ground up,” Gwarube said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM

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Response package to lessen impact of US tariffs

Source: Government of South Africa

Response package to lessen impact of US tariffs

Government is creating an economic response package to address job losses and lessen the impact of the United States’ decision to impose a 30% unilateral tariff on its imports. 

This package will include the establishment of an export support desk and a localisation fund.

This announcement was made in a joint media statement by the Ministers of the Departments of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) and International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). 

In May, South Africa submitted a comprehensive and ambitious framework deal aimed at addressing trade deficits and promoting mutually beneficial relations. 

The tariffs, set to take effect from 8 August 2025, are set to create uncertainty. 

However, DIRCO Minister Ronald Lamola clarified that goods already in transit before the deadline will continue to be subject to the previous 10% tariff until 5 October 2025. 

The United States is South Africa’s third biggest trading partner, with the European Union and China being the first and second largest trading partners. 

“Thus, we will continue to engage the US to conclude a deal that advances the interests of both countries. South Africa seeks to conclude deals that promote value addition and industrialisation, rather than extractive relations that deprive the country of the ability to beneficiate its mineral wealth by mimicking extractive colonial-era trade relations.“

The Ministers believe South Africa’s minimal 0.25% share of total United States imports makes the 30% tariff on the country “inscrutable“, especially since these tariffs are applied equally to all United States trading partners.

“South Africa poses no trade threat to the US economy nor its national security,” Lamola said. 

On the contrary, the Minister said exports are crucial inputs that support America’s industrial base. 

“Our agriculture exports are even counter-seasonal, meaning they fill gaps in the US market, not replace domestic products.” 

Lamola said South Africa is more than a trading partner but a major investor in the United States, with local companies sustaining American jobs. 

“Our goal is to preserve and grow these mutually beneficial relationships.” 

Experts estimate that the potential reduction in economic growth could be 0.2%, although the exact impact is still uncertain. 

Lamola emphasised that 35% of South African exports are exempt from the tariffs, including copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber products, certain critical minerals, stainless steel scrap, and energy products. 

“Due to South Africa not enjoying a country exemption for Section 232 duties on steel and aluminium, South African companies have already adjusted to the Section 232 duties since 2018. However, the heightened policy uncertainty creates instability in trade and may have an impact on exports,” he said.

In response, South Africa is implementing a multi-faceted strategy that includes ongoing diplomatic engagement through various channels, creating an economic response package that provides export support, exploring market diversification, and targeting regions across Africa, the Americas and Asia. 

In addition, the country is collaborating with the localisation fund to support industries that have been affected. 

Lamola said the establishment of an export support desk will serve as a direct point of contact for companies affected by the United States tariff hike. 

READ | Government announces measures to assist exporters

The aim of this support measure is to support the diversification of export markets for increased resilience and facilitate the entry into alternative markets for affected exporters. 

“The desk will provide updates on developments and tailored advisory services to exporters on alternative destinations, guidance on market entry processes, insights into compliance requirements and linkages to South African Embassies and High Commissions abroad.” 

Lamola said the measures are to assist companies to absorb the tariff and facilitate long-term resilience and growth strategies to protect jobs and productive capacity in South Africa. 

Localisation fund support

Meanwhile, Lamola said the Localisation Fund Support (LSF) stands ready to contribute to the national effort to support South African companies impacted by the imposition of 30% import tariffs by the United States. 

In addition, he said they are working with the Department of Labour on measures to mitigate potential job losses, using existing instruments within its entities that can be adjusted to respond to the current challenges.  

Responding to questions, dtic Minister Tau said government is continuing to engage with the United States.  

“We must negotiate in the interest of the country. We were promised a template; we are still waiting for the template,” Tau said.  

The Ministers said South Africa is committed to a principled approach and will use all available diplomatic channels to negotiate with the United States. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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South African learners struggle with reading comprehension: study reveals a gap between policy and classroom practice

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Tracy Kitchen, Lecturer: Student Academic Development, Rhodes University

South African learners consistently struggle with reading comprehension, performing poorly in both international and local assessments. A significant issue is that 81% of grade 4 learners (aged 9 or 10) are unable to read for meaning: they can decode words, but do not necessarily understand them.

While this problem has received considerable attention, no clear explanation has emerged.

In my recent PhD thesis, I considered a crucial, but often overlooked, piece of the puzzle – the curriculum policy. My research sought to uncover and understand the gaps and contradictions in reading comprehension, especially between policy and practice, in a grade 4 classroom.

This research revealed a difference between curriculum policy and practice, and between what learners seemed to have understood and what they actually understood in a routine reading comprehension task.

My main findings were that:

  • grade 4 learners were being asked overly simple, literal questions about what they were reading, despite the text being more complex than expected

  • the kinds of questions that learners should be asked (as indicated in the curriculum policy) were different from what they were being asked

  • this gap led to learners seeming to be more successful at reading comprehension than they actually were.

Pinpointing the gaps between what the policy says and how reading comprehension is actually taught at this crucial stage of development (grade 4) could pave the way for more effective interventions.

Curriculum policy

South African teachers are expected to base their reading comprehension instruction and assessment on the guidelines provided by the 2012 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement.

The policy outlines specific cognitive skill levels – essentially, ways of thinking and understanding – that learners should master for each reading task. These levels are drawn from Barrett’s 1956 Taxonomy of Reading Comprehension, an international guideline. It’s based on the popular Bloom’s Taxonomy of Reading Comprehension, which categorises reading comprehension according to varying skill levels.

According to Barrett’s Taxonomy, reading comprehension involves five progressively complex levels:

  1. Literal comprehension: Identifying meaning that is directly stated in the text. (For example, “Name the animals in the story”.)

  2. Reorganisation: Organising, paraphrasing, or classifying information that is explicitly stated. (“Find four verbs in the story to describe what the animals did.”)

  3. Inference: Understanding meaning that is not directly stated, but implied. (“When in the story is the leopard being selfish?”)

  4. Evaluation: Making judgements about the text’s content or quality. (“Who do you think this story is usually told to?”)

  5. Appreciation: Making emotional or personal evaluations about the text. (“How well was the author able to get the message across?”)

Typically, reading comprehension tasks will assess a range of these cognitive skills.

South Africa’s Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement document specifies (on pages 91-92) that all reading comprehension tasks should comprise questions that are:

  • 40% literal/reorganisation (lower-order thinking skills)

  • 40% inferential (middle-order)

  • 20% evaluation and appreciation (higher-order).

This approach aims to allow most students to demonstrate a basic understanding of the text, while challenging more advanced learners.

However, as my classroom case study shows, the system appears to be failing. There was a mismatch between the policy and what was taking place in the classroom.

Classroom practice

For this research, I observed the reading comprehension practices in a single classroom in a public school in the Eastern Cape province. This took place over six months, at a time when schools were not fully reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The task in question included a text and activity selected by the teacher from a textbook aligned with the policy. My analysis (which used Appraisal, a linguistic framework that tracks evaluative meaning) showed that most of the text’s meaning was implicit. To fully understand it, learners would need higher-order thinking and sophisticated English first-language skills. This was a surprising finding for a grade 4 resource, especially because most learners in this study were not English first-language speakers.

Even more surprising, learners achieved seemingly high marks on comprehension, with an average of 82.9%. This suggested they understood this complex text.

However, I found that the questions in the textbook did not align with policy. Instead of the balance of skills required by the policy, 73% of the questions called only for lower-order skills. Only 20% were inferential and a mere 7% required evaluation or appreciation (middle- to higher-order skills).

At least six of the 15 available marks could be gained simply by listing explicitly stated items, not requiring genuine comprehension.

This reveals that, in this classroom, activities labelled as policy-compliant actually tested only lower-order comprehension. Learners could pass simply by identifying and listing information from the text. This creates a false sense of comprehension success, as revealed by the high marks.

When learners were tested on the same text but using different questions that I designed to align with the policy requirements, they scored lower marks, especially for the higher-order questions.

This mismatch might partly explain why South Africans score poorly in international tests (which require more higher-order thinking).

Why this matters and moving forward

These findings are concerning, as learners may be lulled into believing that they are successful readers. A false sense of accomplishment could have significant impacts on the rest of their education.

Comprehension difficulties can’t be blamed solely on the disconnect between policy and practice, however. Many other contextual factors shape how learners perform in reading comprehension tasks.

In my study, factors like COVID-19, insufficient home language teaching policies, educational inequalities, and the pressures on teachers during a crisis (brought on by COVID-19) all contributed to the literacy crisis.

Read more: South Africa’s reading crisis: focus on the root cause, not the peripherals

However, two key points became clear during this study.

Firstly, teaching materials favour lower-order comprehension skills, skewing perceptions of learners’ abilities.

Secondly, teachers may lack the knowledge, resources or motivation to adjust these materials to truly align with the national policy in how reading comprehension is assessed.

This calls for urgent intervention in how reading comprehension is taught and assessed and in how teachers are prepared to do this effectively.

– South African learners struggle with reading comprehension: study reveals a gap between policy and classroom practice
– https://theconversation.com/south-african-learners-struggle-with-reading-comprehension-study-reveals-a-gap-between-policy-and-classroom-practice-260033

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the government of Guinea-Bissau advance Phase II of assistive device initiative for children with disabilities

Source: APO


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The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), through its Directorate of Humanitarian and Social Affairs, has officially launched Phase II of the ECOWAS Assistive Device Programme for Children with Disabilities in Guinea-Bissau. The initiative, developed in close collaboration with national authorities, is part of a broader regional programme aimed at promoting the rights and dignity of children with disabilities, in line with ECOWAS Vision 2050 and the 4×4 Strategic Objectives.

The high-level launch ceremony took place in Bissau under the auspices of the Minister of Women, Family and Social Solidarity of Guinea-Bissau, H.E. Maria Inácia Có Mendes Sanhá, who expressed her deep appreciation for the programme. Addressing the audience with conviction and emotion, the Minister stated:

“This programme is not just about devices. It is about dignity. It is about telling our children that they matter, that their rightful place in society is non-negotiable. I thank ECOWAS for this act of humanity and for reminding us that true integration begins with the most vulnerable.”

She further stressed that inclusion must be a core principle of governance, not a peripheral consideration. The Minister urged for continued cooperation and broader visibility of inclusion efforts, recalling the daily challenges faced by families raising children with disabilities.

Representing the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Alves D’Almada, Head of Social Affairs Division, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to social justice and inclusive development:

“Beyond equipment, this mission empowers families, strengthens institutions, and promotes human dignity. We are here to build an inclusive future with the people of Guinea-Bissau.”

Also delivering a goodwill message, Mr. João Pedro Cabral, President of the National Federation of Associations for the Defence and Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, emphasised the need to mainstream disability in public policies and highlighted the important role of community-based actors in achieving inclusive outcomes.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every child with a disability is seen, heard and included. This initiative represents hope for thousands of families.”

The event brought together senior representatives from sectoral ministries, civil society organisations as well as local experts. It also served as a platform for technical dialogue, field visits and institutional coordination, ensuring that the intervention is culturally grounded, technically sound and politically sustainable.

Ahead of the official meeting, the ECOWAS delegation held a high-level consultation with H.E. Maria Inácia Có Mendes Sanhá, Minister of Women, Family and Social Solidarity, to ensure strategic alignment and national ownership of the initiative. The delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau to ECOWAS, represented by Mr. Julião Mané, reaffirming the spirit of interinstitutional cooperation and multilateral diplomacy that anchors this regional endeavour.

More than a technical operation, the ECOWAS Assistive Device Programme stands as a political and ethical affirmation of shared regional values. By placing childhood and inclusion at the centre of its action, ECOWAS reaffirms its role as a regional organisation committed to equity, dignity and social cohesion.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Mission in The Gambia’s (ECOMIG) ghanaian contingent donates school and health equipment to farafenni high school

Source: APO


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As part of its civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) actions, the 9th Ghanaian contingent (GHANCOY 9) deployed within the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG) carried out a major humanitarian operation on Thursday, July 31st 2025 at Farafenni high school, located some 115 km from Barra.

Led by its commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Ronne Yaw Agbemafle, the unit handed out a batch of essential supplies to pupils: stationery, reading books and sanitary towels. This initiative aims to support the students’ academic progress while contributing to their personal well-being, particularly that of young girls.

In his speech, Lieutenant-Colonel Agbemafle explained that this gesture was part of the contingent’s commitment to strengthening civil-military relations, encouraging girls’ education and promoting social inclusion within host communities.

The school’s principal, Mr. Abdou Gigo, hailed the support as valuable and timely, stressing its immediate impact on student motivation and academic success. He also emphasized the added value of the health awareness campaign organized at the same time.

One of the highlights of the day was an interactive session on menstrual hygiene, led by Captain Victoria Yayira Galley, aimed at girls. The aim was to break down the taboos surrounding menstruation, promote better menstrual health management, boost self-confidence and limit truancy.

This operation is part of the overall strategy of ECOMIG (ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia), the regional military mission deployed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to consolidate peace, stability and development in The Gambia. Through its local actions, GHANCOY 9 illustrates the importance of dialogue, listening to and supporting local communities as a lever for peace-building.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Médecins sans frontières (MSF) treats the long-term consequences of malnutrition among children in Nigeria

Source: APO


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At the inpatient therapeutic feeding centre in Maiyama General hospital in Kebbi state, Nigeria, where an Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) team works, two-year-old Ummul Khairun Mohammed is receiving treatment for severe acute malnutrition. Due to developmental delays caused by the condition, she is still unable to walk.

Ummul is one of thousands of children under five-years-old currently receiving care from MSF teams across northern Nigeria, during the annual peak malnutrition season.

For several days – sometimes up to several weeks – these children receive treatment aimed at stabilising them, addressing medical complications, and promoting rapid weight gain.

While most children recover, many will suffer long-term consequences.

“Malnutrition is not just a short-term emergency — it is a lifelong struggle for many children,” says Dr Jamila Shuaibu Bello, an MSF doctor in the northern state of Kano. “It affects brain development. Malnutrition weakens the immune system, making children more susceptible to communicable diseases. It is also linked to chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.”

Childhood malnutrition effects last a lifetime

Even a few weeks of experiencing severe malnutrition can severely disrupt a child’s motor development. Affected children may miss key milestones such as crawling by eight–10 months or walking by 18 months. Chronic malnutrition often results in stunting — a condition that impairs mental development, school performance, and cognitive abilities. In girls, stunting can also lead to obstetric complications later in life due to a smaller pelvis size.

If these issues are not addressed early, the damage can be irreversible. To respond to the long-term effects of malnutrition, MSF has introduced two new approaches to our malnutrition treatment.

Restoring movement through paediatric physiotherapy

With the support of the MSF Foundation, which creates new medical tools for the most neglected patients where MSF operates, our teams recently launched paediatric physiotherapy programmes in the northwestern states of Kano and Katsina. These sessions include guided exercises, play-based therapy, and training for caregivers to continue therapy at home. Each intervention is tailored to the child’s developmental stage and condition, helping rebuild strength, coordination, and confidence.

While still in their pilot stage, the two projects are already showing promising results in helping children regain motor functions and achieve developmental milestones.

Thirteen-month-old Usman Aliyu was treated for malnutrition at Unguwa Uku hospital in Kano state before participating in physiotherapy sessions.

“Before Usman fell ill, he could crawl and stand,” says Aisha Aliyu, Usman’s mother. “But he lost those abilities due to the sickness. In the physiotherapy sessions, he was taught to stand again and is now taking steps towards walking.”

An MSF physiotherapist in Kano, Fatima Abdulmajid says, “When I first arrived, I was shocked by the severity of motor delays, but seeing the children’s progress week after week through motor stimulation makes me proud of the work we are doing.”

Mental health support for children and caregivers

Malnutrition also affects mental health. Children are more likely to develop anxiety and depression, while caregivers often feel helpless and overwhelmed as they watch their child grow weak and unresponsive.

To address this, MSF provides psychosocial support as part of our malnutrition projects in several states — including Zamfara, Bauchi, Sokoto, Borno, Kebbi, Kano, and Katsina. Services include play therapy, counselling, and caregiver education to help families manage emotional and behavioural challenges.

“It’s one thing to treat the child medically, and it’s another to assess which areas of development have been emotionally affected,” says Kauna Hope Bako, MSF’s mental health supervisor in Bauchi. “Mental health support helps manage the child’s overall well-being. We stimulate the child emotionally and engage all these areas that have been compromised due to malnutrition.”

The integration of physiotherapy and mental health support into malnutrition treatment marks a critical step toward holistic care that supports a child’s quality of life.

Public health emergency

Malnutrition is a public health emergency in Nigeria. According to UNICEF, an estimated three million children are currently suffering from severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in the country — up from 2.6 million in 2024. Of these, 1.65 million are in six conflict-affected northern states – areas that MSF operates in.

MSF has been raising the alarm about the worsening malnutrition situation in northern Nigeria since 2022. In 2024 alone, more than 250,000 children with severe acute malnutrition were admitted to outpatient facilities where MSF works, and 76,000 acutely malnourished children with medical complications to inpatient facilities, representing an increase of 38% and 53% respectively compared to 2023.

This year, anticipating an even earlier start of the peak season that typically runs from June through September, MSF increased inpatient bed capacity, scaled up outpatient therapeutic feeding centres, and hired more staff. We also boosted health promotion activities in several communities that include education on how to prevent, detect and treat malnutrition, and the need to take children for medical treatment early.

From January to May 2025, MSF admitted24,784 severely malnourished children in inpatient therapeutic feeding centres, and 107,461 children in outpatient therapeutic feeding centres in northern Nigeria, an increase of 13 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.

The persistent malnutrition crisis in northern Nigeria stems from a variety of factors such as inflation, food insecurity, insufficient healthcare infrastructure, ongoing security issues, and disease outbreaks worsened by low vaccine coverage. The situation is further exacerbated by funding shortages for the already inadequate nutrition response.

To address such a complex issue, a holistic approach is needed from all local and international agencies and organisations involved — not only to treat malnourished children in the short term, but also to tackle the long-term consequences of malnutrition.

MSF manages 11 inpatient therapeutic feeding centres and over 30 outpatient therapeutic feeding centres in seven states in northeast and northwest Nigeria: Borno, Bauchi, Kano, Kebbi, Zamfara, Sokoto and Katsina.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Médecins sans frontières (MSF).