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Tanzania set to implement World Health Organization’s (WHO) “Beat the Heat” Initiative to Safeguard Health from Extreme Heat and Environmental Hazards

Source: APO – Report:

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The United Republic of Tanzania, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), is set to launch the ‘Beat the Heat’ Initiative aimed at addressing extreme heat and environmental risks in workplaces and large-scale events.

Tanzania is among the first countries globally to roll out this initiative, implemented under a partnership between WHO and FIFA, supported by the World Cup 2022 Legacy Fund. Running from January 2025 to June 2026, the programme will provide practical tools and technical guidance to help strengthen national and local preparedness and response to climate-related health threats—particularly in workplaces, outdoor environments, and mass public events.

Tanzania’s activation of “Beat the Heat” initiative comes at a critical moment, as the country prepares to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025, a major continental football tournament expected to draw large crowds in high-temperature outdoor settings.

“This initiative is a timely and strategic step forward in protecting the health of all those involved in outdoor work and events,” said Dr Galbert Fedjo, Offcier in Charge at WHO. “By integrating heat protection into CHAN 2025 and beyond, Tanzania is setting an example for how countries can respond to the realities of climate change and its impact on public health.”

Through this initiative, Tanzania will implement a series of targeted actions including; development of national heat-health action plans, deployment of early warning systems and emergency heat protocols; provision of shaded rest zones, hydration stations, and protective equipment for outdoor workers and event staff and training of health responders and event organizers in heat-related illness prevention and first aid.

The initiative is being rolled out under the leadership of the Ministries of Health in Mainland and Zanzibar in close collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, Tanzania Meteorological Services, Emergency Department from the Muhimbili National Hospital and Lumumba Regional Hospital and other key actors responsible for organizing mass gatherings and events. WHO will provide technical guidance, tools, and coordination support to ensure implementation reaches the most at-risk populations.

Rising global temperatures and more frequent heatwaves are driving an increase in heat-related illness and mortality, especially among outdoor workers and vulnerable populations. WHO estimates that by 2050, heatwaves could cause over 1.6 million deaths annually, while air pollution continues to claim more than 4 million lives each year.

“Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is a daily reality,” said Dr. Honest Anicetus – Head of the Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Unit in the Ministry of Health. “The Beat the Heat initiative will help countries like Tanzania turn preparedness into action, with the tools to protect lives in the face of rising environmental risks.”

As an early adopter of this initiative, Tanzania is demonstrating its commitment to building climate-resilient health systems, improving occupational safety, and ensuring that major events like CHAN 2025 are safe for all involved.

– on behalf of World Health Organization – United Republic of Tanzania.

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The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) Secures N500 Billion in Renewable Energy Deals to Power Nigeria’s Rural Future

Source: APO – Report:

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The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with leading institutions and private sector partners to unlock over N500 billion in investments for renewable energy projects in Nigeria’s underserved rural communities. Announced during an event titled “Strengthening Partnership for Sustainable Energy Access and Socio-Economic Development,” these agreements aim to expand clean energy access and drive economic progress nationwide.

Key Highlights of the MOUs

REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu described the MOUs as actionable frameworks built on proven success. He cited past achievements such as:

  • Deployment of four smart police stations with the Police Trust Fund [1].
  • Creation of a renewable energy testing center with Huawei [2].
  • Securing N100 billion in private sector debt funding through First City Monument Bank (FCMB) for renewable energy companies [3].

Aliyu added that partnerships with 13 state governments have already delivered 200 mini-grids across Nigeria [4]. The newly signed MOUs aim to attract N500 billion in commercial funding over three phases to scale these efforts further.

Strategic Partnerships

  • Nigeria Correctional Service: This MOU will deploy mini-grids and clean energy systems in custodial centers, starting at the Abuja headquarters [5]. Controller-General Sylvester Nwakuche said, “This initiative goes beyond electricity, it’s about rehabilitation and empowerment.”
  • Galaxy Backbone: This collaboration will align internet and electricity infrastructure rollouts in educational institutions for greater efficiency [6].
  • NIRSAL Plc: Focused on agriculture, this partnership will power agribusiness clusters with clean energy and provide credit risk guarantees for rural vendors [8]. NIRSAL Plc Managing Director Sa’ad Hamidu noted, “With over 60 percent of Nigerians in agriculture, this is a game-changer for growth.”

Impact and Vision

Executive Director of Technical Services Umar Umar highlighted REA’s achievements: over 160 megawatts of solar capacity deployed, electrifying 1,650 communities, powering 1,000 healthcare centers, and benefiting six million Nigerians [7]. “Rural electrification is a catalyst for education, health, security, and economic productivity,” Umar stated.

REA aims to leverage these partnerships to transform energy access and socio-economic outcomes in Nigeria’s rural regions.

[1] – https://apo-opa.co/451T6kc

[2] – https://apo-opa.co/45cXLAc

[3] – https://apo-opa.co/3UDqitA

[4] – https://apo-opa.co/3J8lZUA

[5] – https://apo-opa.co/46t2rEe

[6] – https://apo-opa.co/3UGzP2Y

[7] – https://apo-opa.co/3H9rl1e

[8]

[9] – https://apo-opa.co/3HazqCT

– on behalf of Kowatek Solar LTD.

Media Contact:
nep@rea.gov.ng
+23480020202020

About the Rural Electrification Agency (REA):
The REA is a Nigerian government agency dedicated to providing reliable, affordable electricity to rural and underserved areas through renewable energy solutions like solar mini-grids and standalone systems [9].

Disclaimer:
This news release is issued by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and is intended for informational purposes only.

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Seychelles Ambassador to the United Nations delivers statement at the conference on Palestine

Source: APO – Report:

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The Permanent Representative of Seychelles to the United Nations, Ambassador Ian Madeleine, delivered a statement at the high-level conference being chaired by France and Saudi Arabia aimed at addressing the practical questions of Palestinian statehood as part of a wider Two-State Solution.

Ambassador Madeleine stressed the urgency of the moment in the face of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the diminishing prospect of lasting peace in the region. He deplored the suffering being witnessed in Gaza and called on the United Nations to ensure that international laws and obligations are met and upheld. He further reiterated Seychelles firm position supporting the Two-State Solution.

“At a time when countless lives have been lost, and an entire population continues to live under the weight of conflict, the urgency of global action cannot be overstated. The Two-State Solution—with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security—remains the internationally recognised framework for resolution. It is rooted in key United Nations resolutions, including 242, 338, 1397, and 2334, and supported by decades of international consensus. Yet, the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate. The violence against civilians, the devastation in Gaza, and the absence of any viable political horizon have made the path to peace appear increasingly elusive,” stated Ambassador Madeleine.

The Republic of Seychelles officially recognised the State of Palestine in 1988 and established diplomatic relations with the State of Israel in 1992. Since the attack by Hamas on 7th October 2023, Seychelles has repeatedly deplored the indiscriminate killings of civilians as well as the destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza, called for a permanent ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages, and renewed efforts towards a lasting resolution to the conflict.

The High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution is meeting from 28-30 July 2025, in New York.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles.

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Health Minister welcomes PSA oxygen plant tender report

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has welcomed the release of a forensic report on the Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) oxygen plant tender, which among others, has made recommendations for disciplinary action to be taken against all individuals implicated in wrongdoing in the awarding of the tender.

The findings and recommendations of the investigation by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) were released on Tuesday by Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson.

The tender in question, worth R836 million, was intended to deliver life-saving PSA oxygen plants to 60 hospitals across the country, which were meant to ensure a reliable and sustainable supply of oxygen, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. R528 million of this project had been allocated directly to the Independent Development Trust (IDT) — a public entity that operates under the supervision of the DPWI — for implementation.

After the release of the forensic report, the Department of Health said Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has expressed satisfaction that “the cloud hanging above the tender” would finally be removed.

The investigation revealed systemic procurement irregularities, fraud and governance failures within the IDT. The inquiry was prompted by the IDT’s admission last year that three companies were awarded the tender, even though two of them did not have the necessary registration with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).

In addition, there are allegations that one of the companies may have submitted fraudulent documentation.

In one example, the investigation found that the original Department of Health budget for the project was R216 million. Still, when the IDT issued the request for quotation (RFQ), prices ballooned to over R590 million without documented approval or value-for-money assessment.

READ | Macpherson outlines report recommendations on R800m oxygen plant tender

The report recommends disciplinary action against IDT CEO Tebogo Malaka, General Manager for Supply Chain Management Dr Molebedi Sisi, and other officials.

Macpherson has since written to the Hawks, briefed the Minister of Health, and met with the newly appointed IDT board to initiate consequence management.

The Department of Health said Motsoaledi also appreciates that those who broke the law will be held accountable.

“They did not just commit financial corruption but deprived South Africans of urgent life support in the form of oxygen. As such, the Department of Health would like to see people being held to account and the law taking its course.

“It must be noted that when this story of the possibility of corruption broke out in the public media, the Minister of Health, in consultation with the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, immediately took a decision to remove the tender from the IDT and took it to the DBSA [Development Bank of Southern Africa] so that the project can continue and deliver the much-needed oxygen,” the Health Department said.

Motsoaledi expressed satisfaction that the Department of Health “lost nothing” and confirmed that all funds donated by the Global Fund are secure.

“It would have been a sad day if donor funds were to disappear under our watch.”

The Minister said he was pleased to note a credible forensic investigation had resolved this matter and brought it to a close.

“I am also satisfied that the report has not pointed any fingers at the Department of Health for any financial misdemeanour that may cast aspersions on the integrity of the department, because it would have soured our relationship with the Global Fund,” the Minister said.  

With the publishing of the report, the department said the remaining work of the DBSA will be expedited to conclude the project as quickly as possible to the benefit of the people of South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

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Uganda: Forensic Bill re-introduced with expanded scope

Source: APO – Report:

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Parliament has received a fresh and expanded version of the forensic science legislation now titled the Forensic and Scientific Analytical Services Bill, 2025.

The Bill tabled for First Reading on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 by the State Minister of Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi replaces the earlier Forensic Evidence Bill, 2024 which was formally withdrawn in February after consultations revealed the need for significant changes that would alter its original intent.

The new bill introduces a far-reaching legal framework aimed at regulating forensic and scientific analytical services in Uganda.

It proposes the formal establishment of the Government Analytical Laboratory (GAL) as the national referral centre for forensic and scientific investigations and designates it as the country’s National Poison Information Centre.

The Bill also introduces an independent regulatory arm within the Ministry of Internal Affairs known as the Department of Inspection and Legal Services to oversee forensic services nationwide.

“This revised legislation aligns key areas of forensic science regulation, expands institutional responsibilities and ensures proper oversight,” Muhoozi told the House earlier this year while explaining the withdrawal of the previous version.

The original Bill introduced in November 2024 focused primarily on regulating DNA profiling and the handling of body samples for use in criminal investigations.

It also proposed the establishment of a National DNA Database to be managed by the Directorate of the Government Analytical Laboratory.

However, the revised Bill goes beyond this limited scope to create a comprehensive system for regulating scientific evidence, laboratory practices, and data protection.

Under the new proposal, the Government Analytical Laboratory is not only mandated to carry out forensic analysis in traditional areas such as DNA, toxicology and questioned documents, but is also expected to operate in emerging fields including cybercrime, environmental samples, and food and drug safety.

The Bill allows for the establishment of regional analytical laboratories to decentralise services and improve access across the country.

The Bill sets out procedures for the collection, use and secure storage of body samples such as blood, saliva and hair, which must be obtained with informed consent or through a court order.

It establishes a forensic and scientific database that encompasses a broader range of information than the DNA only system proposed in 2024.

The database will be governed by strict access controls and any unauthorised use or disclosure will attract serious penalties.

The Department of Inspection and Legal Services will serve as the new regulatory body with powers to licence, inspect and sanction forensic laboratories. 

Inspectors will be able to enter premises, issue correction directives and even order temporary closure of non-compliant facilities.

Laboratories must register and obtain annual licenses, and those operating without one face fines of up to 500 currency points or imprisonment of up to three years.

The Government Analytical Laboratory will also take on a new role as the National Poison Information Centre tasked with coordinating poisoning incidents, conducting related analyses and maintaining a national database of poisoning cases. The Bill also introduces penalties for offences ranging from falsifying analysis results to obstructing inspectors or disclosing confidential forensic data without authorisation.

– on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Strongly Condemns Terrorist Attack on Church in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Source: APO – Report:

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The United Arab Emirates strongly condemned the terrorist attack that targeted a church in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which resulted in the deaths of a number of innocent people.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) affirmed the UAE’s firm rejection of all forms of violence and terrorism aimed at undermining security and stability.

The Ministry also expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, and to the government and people of the DRC over this heinous and cowardly attack.

– on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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De la contribution des Casques bleus zambiens à la stabilité de la Vakaga

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Ils étaient 753 Casques bleus du 10ᵉ contingent zambien de la MINUSCA, dont plus de 300 femmes, à recevoir, le 28 juillet 2025, à Birao, la  médaille des Nations Unies. Plus qu’une distinction, il s’agit de la reconnaissance de leur engagement exemplaire en faveur de la stabilisation et de la protection des civils dans la préfecture de la Vakaga, au nord-est de la RCA.

Déployé dans la Vakaga depuis août 2024, le 10e contingent zambien œuvre activement à la protection des civils et au renforcement de l’autorité de l’État, menant régulièrement des patrouilles dans les différentes sous-préfectures de la région. Ces opérations, souvent conduites en coordination avec les Forces armées centrafricaines (FACA), ont permis de renforcer la sécurité, prévenir les menaces liées à la présence de groupes armés et rassurer les populations locales. Entre 2024 et 2025, plus de 50 patrouilles conjointes ont été réalisées avec les FACA, en plus des patrouilles individuelles.

Leurs actions viennent également en soutien au processus électoral dans les quatre sous-préfectures de la Vakaga, à travers l’escorte des convois logistiques et la sécurisation de l’enrôlement des électeurs, outre plus de 30 escortes de convois humanitaires, facilitant l’acheminement de vivres et d’aides vers des localités enclavées comme Gordil, Tissifongoro, Am-Dafock et Matala, proches des frontières tchadienne et soudanaise. Un engagement salué par les communautés locales.

Pour le Général de division Maychell Asmi, Commandant adjoint de la Force de la MINUSCA, ce contingent a considérablement contribué à la mise en place d’un environnement plus sûr et plus sécurisé pour les opérations visant à promouvoir la paix et la stabilité. Ceci, avec « un professionnalisme exemplaire et un respect sans faille du mandat de la MINUSCA, contribuant ainsi de manière substantielle au succès global de la Mission ».

« Grâce aux patrouilles qu’ils effectuent sur les axes routiers, de nombreuses personnes peuvent désormais circuler librement entre les villages pour acheter et revendre des produits agro-pastoraux sur le marché de Birao », témoigne Amagoumach Machouwa, commerçante au marché central de Birao.

À Am-Dafock, localité autrefois sous la menace constante des groupes armés venus du Soudan, leur présence a contribué à un retour progressif de la paix. «. Avant, ces groupes faisaient irruption dans notre village et nous dépouillaient. Depuis le déploiement de la MINUSCA et des FACA, nous arrivons enfin à dormir tranquillement. Nous vivons en paix », affirme Célestin Tamia, chef de groupe dans la localité d’Am-Dafock.

Au-delà des actions sécuritaires, ces Casques bleus ont initié des actions de développement, telles la construction de bâtiments des sous-préfectures de Ouanda-Djallé et de Tiringoulou, de la gendarmerie et de la maison des jeunes d’Am-Dafock, ainsi que le stade municipal Am-Ngabo de Birao.

« Dès l’ouverture de la base à Am-Dafock, la MINUSCA a aidé à redéployer les FACA et les enseignants. Je suis également satisfait qu’elle ait contribué à la construction de notre gendarmerie », fait valoir Abdel Kader Ramadan, sous-préfet d’Am-Dafock.

Enfin, le contingent zambien s’est distingué par ses nombreuses activités communautaires. Plus de 20 consultations médicales à domicile ont ainsi été menées, ainsi que des campagnes de sensibilisation contre les violences basées sur le genre, le nettoyage des lieux publics, l’appui aux femmes vulnérables, des formations au recyclage des déchets plastiques non biodégradables, outre des activités sportives avec les jeunes.

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

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Le Président Ramkalawan préside la cérémonie officielle de départ des athlètes seychellois aux 13èmes Jeux de la Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien (CJSOI)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Président de la République des Seychelles, M. Wavel Ramkalawan, accompagné de la Première Dame, Mme Linda Ramkalawan, et du Vice-Président, M. Ahmed Afif, a présidé cet après-midi au Centre International de Conférences des Seychelles, la cérémonie officielle de départ des athlètes seychellois qui participeront aux 13èmes Jeux de la Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien (CJSOI).

La manifestation sportive se déroulera aux Seychelles au début du mois d’août.

La délégation seychelloise comprend 178 athlètes évoluant dans dix disciplines sportives, accompagnés de 75 officiels. Durant la cérémonie, les athlètes ont fièrement présenté leurs tenues officielles dans toutes les disciplines: athlétisme, badminton, basketball, boxe, football, haltérophilie, judo, natation, volleyball et voile.

L’événement a également mis en lumière les jeunes participants aux programmes d’échanges culturels, à l’assemblée régionale de la jeunesse et aux initiatives destinées aux jeunes entrepreneurs, témoignant de l’engagement des Seychelles en faveur du développement multisectoriel de la jeunesse.

La Ministre de la Jeunesse, des Sports et de la Famille, Mme Marie-Céline Zialor, a félicité les athlètes sélectionnés pour représenter la nation et a exprimé sa reconnaissance pour le dévouement dont ont fait preuve toutes les parties prenantes dans la préparation de ces jeux.

« Sous le thème ‘Positivité Toujours’, illuminons ces dix journées de positivité », a déclaré Mme Zialor. « Nous avons rehaussé le niveau de la compétition afin d’identifier et de cultiver la diversité des talents de notre paysage sportif. »

M. Hervé Chang-Yunn, Directeur Général de JOBO Seychelles, a offert des maillots commémoratifs de l’Équipe Seychelles, au Président et au Vice-Président, témoignant ainsi de l’engagement du secteur privé envers les aspirations sportives nationales.

Le Président Ramkalawan a salué l’excellence des préparatifs du Comité organisateur local, garantissant que toutes les exigences logistiques et installations sportives répondent aux plus hauts standards internationaux. « Soyez assurés de notre soutien indéfectible », a-t-il souligné. « Portez avec fierté notre hymne national et donnez le meilleur de vous-mêmes pour les Seychelles. »

En clôture de la cérémonie, le Président a remis le drapeau national à Mlle Sharyna Anthony, élue meilleure jeune athlète féminine 2024, qui assumera la fonction de porte-drapeau de la délégation seychelloise.

Cette cérémonie a réuni une assistance distinguée comprenant notamment le Ministre des Affaires Étrangères et du Tourisme M. Sylvestre Radegonde, le Ministre de l’Éducation Dr Justin Valentin, la Ministre du Gouvernement Local et des Affaires Communautaires, Mme Rose Marie Hoareau, le Chef Juge de la Cour Suprême Justice Rony Govinden, le Vice-Président de l’Assemblée Nationale M. Gervais Henrie, et le Chef de l’Opposition de l’Assemblée  Nationale, M. Sebastien Pillay.

La présence des membres de l’Assemblée Nationale, des Secrétaires principaux, des Directeurs généraux, des membres du Comité organisateur local, des athlètes, des entraîneurs, des officiels et autres invités d’honneur, est venu souligner l’engagement national unanime en faveur de l’excellence sportive.

Distribué par APO Group pour State House Seychelles.

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A Living Legacy: Flamboyant Tree Planted in Grenada to Honour Outgoing Afreximbank President Benedict Oramah

Source: APO

On the second day of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2025), a symbolic tree-planting ceremony was held in Grenada to honour Professor Benedict Oramah, outgoing President of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), for his enduring contributions to Africa-Caribbean relations.

The Flamboyant tree, native to Madagascar but widely rooted across the Caribbean, was chosen for its beauty and symbolic resonance. Known for its brilliant red blooms, it is seen as a representation of vitality, peace, and the promise of growth, which echoes the very principles that have defined Oramah’s leadership.

Grenada’s Prime Minister, Hon. Dickon Mitchell led the tribute, praising Oramah’s transformational impact across the region.

“This symbolic but substantive planting of a Flamboyant tree, a tree which originates from Madagascar but has found its way to the Caribbean and adorns the landscape wherever you go, and when it blooms its beautiful red flowers inspire beauty, tranquility, and peace in all of us, is reflective of the significant role that you have played in ensuring that Global Africa can rise, can blossom, can bloom and can stand as a testament and a legacy for future generations,” Prime Minister Mitchell said.

In response, President Oramah expressed his deep gratitude to Grenada and the wider Caribbean community:

“As an agricultural economist, I know the value of a plant. In the food life cycle, it is the plant that stands as an anchor. As I join the Honourable Prime Minister in planting this tree, I am reminded that I have found a very deep anchor in Grenada and the CARICOM.”

Reflecting on the symbolism, he continued:

“A person who plants a tree must tend the tree, a person who plants a tree must come and harvest the tree, a person who plants the tree must always make sure that the tree lasts and lasts… That is why I regard this as that anchor that will bring me here and keep me here.”

“Africa is the cradle of civilisation. Africa has given the world life, and to use this tree planting to honour me means that you value the work we are doing to give life to people. I would like to reassure you that I will do whatever I can, until I’m not able to do anything, to keep us marching on– something I believe we are all committed to.”

The tree planting took place as ACTIF2025 enters its second day, bringing together high-level government officials, business leaders, and civil society from Africa and the Caribbean to deepen economic and cultural integration under the theme: “Resilience and Transformation: Enhancing Africa-Caribbean Economic Cooperation in an Era of Global Uncertainty.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

Media files

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Western Union, Zoona and Chipper Cash Launch International Money Transfer Services

Source: APO


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Western Union (www.WesternUnion.com), Zoona Transactions Zambia Limited and Chipper Cash today announced the launch of international money transfer services in the Chipper Cash app. The co-branded service enables customers in Zambia to send and receive money globally, based on their convenience and needs.

Zoona is a leading fintech and enterprise payments platform in Zambia. Acquired by Chipper Cash in 2022, the two brands now support 5 million customers across Africa. Today’s announcement combines Western Union’s global strength and 175 years of expertise in international money movement with Chipper Cash’s and Zoona’s deep local payments knowledge and innovative mobile technology platform. Chipper Cash app users can now support their loved ones by sending and receiving money seamlessly across Western Union’s network of over 200 countries and territories. They also have the flexibility to send funds to mobile wallets worldwide, as well as for cash pick-up at hundreds of thousands of locations abroad. Payout to bank accounts shall be launched shortly.

“Zambia’s digitally savvy population of over 20 million is driving a remarkable shift toward mobile-first financial solutions,” said Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Western Union’s Regional Vice President of Africa. “Integrating our international money transfer services in the Chipper Cash app means customers can transfer funds across our global network – reliably and with ease. I am delighted then that, together, we are expanding the possibilities for Zambians to connect, transact and thrive in the global economy.”

The Chipper Cash app is available for download on both Android and iOS smartphones. To initiate a Western Union transaction, customers can use funds stored in their Chipper Cash wallet. The wallet can be conveniently topped up at multiple cash and digital payment touchpoints, including retailers, mobile network operators, banks and ATMs.

“At Zoona, we’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible evolution of Zambia’s financial landscape—from the early days of cash-based transactions and agent networks to a thriving ecosystem of mobile and digital payments,” said Brett Magrath, CEO at Zoona and CPO at Chipper Cash. “This partnership marks the next chapter in that journey. With smartphone adoption on the rise, there’s an increasing appetite for digital financial services that move beyond USSD to deliver richer, app-based experiences. This partnership extends the reach of Zambia’s vibrant fintech ecosystem—connecting more users to global financial services through a seamless digital experience.”

The collaboration builds on Western Union’s well-established physical presence in Zambia that caters to diverse and fast-evolving customer needs. The move also supports Western Union’s, Zoona’s and Chipper Cash’s shared mission to make financial services accessible to all consumers in Zambia – regardless of their banking status.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Western Union Holdings, Inc..

Media Contacts:
Western Union:
Nicholas Mandalas,
Nicholas.Mandalas@wu.com

Chipper Cash:
Goldie Iyamu:
Goldie@chippercash.com

About Western Union:
The Western Union Company (NYSE: WU) is committed to helping people around the world who aspire to build financial futures for themselves, their loved ones and their communities. Our leading cross-border, cross-currency money movement, payments and digital financial services empower consumers, businesses, financial institutions and governments—across more than 200 countries and territories and over 130 currencies—to connect with billions of bank accounts, millions of digital wallets and cards, and a global footprint of hundreds of thousands of retail locations. Our goal is to offer accessible financial services that help people and communities prosper. For more information, visit www.WesternUnion.com

About Chipper Cash:
Chipper Cash is a financial technology company serving more than five million customers across the African continent. In 2018, Chipper Cash revolutionized moving money in Africa by providing a frictionless way to send and receive money cross-border. Since then, Chipper has increased its product suite by offering personal investments and digital business transactions and expanded its reach into the US. Led by co-founders Ham Serunjogi and Maijid Moujaled, Chipper Cash is focused on its mission to provide the most trusted and accessible financial services for people living in Africa and beyond.

About Zoona:
Zoona is a fintech platform building intelligent financial infrastructure for local and global businesses. With operations rooted in Zambia, Zoona offers a suite of services including mobile money, enterprise disbursements, digital collections, and cross-border remittances. Regulated by the Bank of Zambia, Zoona leverages over a decade of experience—one of Zambia’s earliest mobile money pioneers—to deliver secure, accessible, and scalable financial solutions.