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JSC announces shortlisted candidates for South African courts

Source: Government of South Africa

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has shortlisted candidates for various courts around the country.

The commission had called for nominations for persons to fill vacancies at the Constitutional Court, Supreme Court of Appeal, Land Court, Labour Court and various Divisions of the High Court.

“The Constitutional Court advertised two vacancies. Six candidates have applied but only five of them are eligible to be shortlisted. This means that if one of the candidates does not make the final list to be recommended to the President, there will be one candidate short to fill the two vacancies. 

“The JSC has therefore decided to re-advertise the two vacancies. The advert was published on 18 July 2025, with a closing date of 6 August 2025 for interviews to be conducted during the October 2025 sitting,” the JSC said in a statement.

Furthermore, the vacancy at the Land Court has been withdrawn “pending the finalisation of the new judicial establishment of the Land Court in terms of the Land Court Act 6 of 2023”.

The shortlisted candidates are:

The Supreme Court of Appeal (one vacancy):
•    Judge Gerald Hercules Bloem.
•    Judge Busisiwe Shareen Masipa.
•    Judge Pitso Ephraim Molitsoane.
•    Judge Thandi Victoria Norman.
•    Judge Bashier Vally.
•    Judge Leonie Windell.

Labour Court (three vacancies in Johannesburg):
•    Suzanna Harvey.

Eastern Cape Division of the High Court (Deputy Judge President):
•    Judge Buyiswa Majiki.
•    Judge Mandela Makaula.
•    Judge Bulelwa Myra Pakati.

Eastern Cape Division of the High Court (three vacancies in Makhanda and Mthatha):
•    Gaynor Appels.
•    Nolubabalo Cengani-Mbakaza.
•    Advocate Nicola Molony.
•    Professor Nomthandazo Patience Ntlama-Makhanya.
•    Aron Sipho Zono.

Free State Division of the High Court (one vacancy):
•    Advocate Denise Greyling-Coetzer.
•    Matodzi Brian Nemavhidi.

Gauteng Division of the High Court (eight vacancies):
•    Advocate Thembi Precious Bokako.
•    Advocate Lesibana Gemine Philemon Ledwaba.
•    Advocate Sarita Liebenberg.
•    Judge Daphney Mahosi.
•    Advocate Khashane La Mmapowana Manamela.
•    Nkosingiphile Goodness Ma-Myeni Mazibuko.
•    Advocate Keitumetse Johanna Mogale-Makinta SC.
•    Richard James Austin Moultrie.
•    Advocate Ettian Raubenheimer.
•    Advocate Karin Strydom.
•    Stephens Anthony Thobane.
•    Advocate Petrus Arnoldus Van Niekerk SC.
•    Livhuwani Betty Vuma.
•    Advocate Susan Melissa Wentzel.

KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court (five vacancies):
•    Malizo Samkelo Gwagwa.
•    Sanele David Hlatshwayo.
•    Advocate Ranjiv Rajkumar Nirghin.
•    Advocate Murray Breval Pitman.
•    Advocate Mpumelelo Prosper Sibisi.
•    Nomfundo Sipunzi.
•    Judge Namhla Thina Yvonne Siwendu.

Limpopo Division of the High Court, Polokwane (one vacancy):
•    Advocate Solomon Shami Teboho Kholong.
•    Karin Leanne Pillay.

Mpumalanga Division of the High Court, Middleburg (two vacancies):
•    Lerato Jane Nontando Bam.
•    Advocate Solomon Shami Teboho Kholong.
•    Advocate Daniel Desi Mogotsi.
•    Advocate Kganki Frans Phahlamohlaka.

The candidates will be interviewed from 6 to 17 October 2025.

Law bodies and any persons who wish to comment on the suitability or otherwise of a shortlisted candidate should address their comments to the Secretariat of the JSC at MSongca@judiciary.org.za and TPhaahlamohlaka@judiciary.org.za,  copied to: JSC@judiciary.org.za. 

“Comments in respect of each candidate must be submitted on a separate page in both pdf and word format and must reach the Secretariat by no later than 5 September 2025. Comments received after 5 September 2025 will not be considered,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Capacity building on medium-term expenditure framework (MTEF) process for Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) focal points

Source: APO


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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission is hosting the second phase of its capacity-building on Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) process, taking place in Lagos, Nigeria from July 21st to 25th, 2025. This training is co-organized by the Human Resources Directorate in consultation with the Directorate of Budget and Treasury (DBT) and the Directorate of Strategic Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (SPME).

This training will equip Focal Persons with the requisite tools and competencies to actively participate in the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) process, as well as the subsequent Management Arbitration meetings.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Molokwu Azikiwe, Director of Budget and Treasury at ECOWAS, highlighted the significance of this framework in facilitating dialogue and finding solutions to enhance the MTEF process, with the ultimate goal of utilizing public resources to drive meaningful improvements in citizens lives. He also added that, this workshop offers a valuable opportunity for collaborative learning, problem-solving, and exchange of experiences.

On behalf of the Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mrs. Damtien L. Tchintchibidja, the Director of Strategic Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (SPME) at the ECOWAS Commission, Mr. Musa Gbogboto, stressed that the MTEF is a component that each Directorate needs to understand. “This workshop will permit to align your activities with the programs and projects that exist within the community… and to understand how the vision 2050 is linked to the community strategic framework, and how that community strategic framework is linked to our programs and projects.” He added.

This activity, organized in partnership with GIZ, marks the conclusion of Phase 2, which will wrap up on Friday, July 25th, and sets the stage for Phase 3, scheduled to take place next week, where another group of agents will receive training on the same theme.

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

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Racines béninoises retrouvées : Des figures afrodescendantes renouent avec leur identité

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


C’est avec émotion et fierté que les afrodescandants Ciara Princess WILSON, Gabendy JOSEPH et David Romuald SMERALDA ont reçu des mains des autorités béninoises, leurs attestations de nationalité béninoise. Cet acte d’une portée à la fois symbolique, humaine et historique n’est pas qu’un geste administratif. Il est un geste d’âme, un retour aux origines, une main tendue à ceux que l’Histoire, dans sa brutalité, avait arrachés à cette terre. 

Ce moment marque la concrétisation d’une ambition et d’une vision du Gouvernement du Bénin. Il s’agit du resserrement des liens historiques et culturels avec des personnes d’ascendance africaine dont les prémices ont été posées à travers l’adoption de la Loi 2024-31 du 02 septembre 2024, relative à la reconnaissance de la nationalité béninoise aux afrodescandants en République du Bénin. 

À travers cette démarche, le Bénin démontre qu’il reste une Nation lucide sur son passé, fier de son présent et ambitieux pour son avenir. 

« Madame et Messieurs, en renouant avec vos racines, vous réparez une partie du monde. Vous offrez à votre société une chance de se reconstruire sur ces valeurs républicaines que nous partagerons désormais ensemble. La présente cérémonie engage chacun de nous à regarder l’histoire en face, à la partager, à la réparer et à la transcender. Elle nous projette dans un avenir commun », a indiqué le Ministre de la Justice et de la Législation, Monsieur Yvon DETCHENOU. 

Il poursuit son propos en lançant un appel solennel aux bénéficiaires : « Soyez donc des citoyens actifs. Des ambassadeurs de notre culture et des défenseurs de notre vivre-ensemble ». 

En acceptant d’offrir la nationalité béninoise aux afrodescandants, le Bénin n’honore pas seulement la mémoire. Il bâtit un avenir commun, plus humain, plus digne et fier.

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

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La Mission de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour la Stabilisation en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO) condamne l’attaque du groupe armé Forces démocratiques alliées (ADF) ayant coûté la vie à 43 civils à Komanda et intensifie ses efforts de protection en Ituri

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Mission de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour la Stabilisation en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO) exprime sa ferme condamnation de l’attaque survenue dans la nuit du 26 au 27 juillet 2025 à Komanda (environ 60km au sud-ouest de Bunia), dans le territoire d’Irumu en Ituri.

Selon des informations officielles, cette attaque des éléments du groupe armé Forces démocratiques alliées (ADF) a causé la mort d’au moins 43 civils (19 femmes, 15 hommes et neuf enfants). La majorité des victimes auraient été tuées à l’arme blanche dans un lieu de culte. Plusieurs personnes ont été enlevées. Des habitations et boutiques ont également été incendiées, aggravant une situation humanitaire déjà extrêmement préoccupante dans la province.

La MONUSCO exprime sa profonde indignation face à ces actes de violence inqualifiables, qui constituent de graves violations du droit international humanitaire et atteintes aux droits de l’homme. Elle présente ses sincères condoléances aux familles et communautés endeuillées et réaffirme sa solidarité aux populations affectées. Elle exhorte les autorités congolaises à diligenter une enquête sur cette tuerie et à traduire les auteurs en justice. La Mission réitère également l’appel du Secrétaire général des Nations Unies aux groupes armés étrangers à déposer les armes sans conditions et à retourner dans leurs pays d’origine.

« Ces attaques ciblées contre des civils sans défense, notamment dans des lieux de culte, sont non seulement révoltantes mais aussi contraires à toutes les normes en matière de droit de l’homme et de droit international humanitaire. La MONUSCO continuera de travailler sans relâche aux côtés des autorités congolaises pour protéger les populations civiles conformément à son mandat », a déclaré Madame Vivian van de Perre, Représentante spéciale adjointe du Secrétaire général de l’ONU, chargée de la Protection et des opérations et Cheffe par intérim de la MONUSCO. En coordination avec les autorités locales, la Mission a apporté son soutien aux opérations de prise en charge des victimes, notamment à travers l’organisation des inhumations et la fourniture de soins médicaux aux blessés. Parallèlement, la MONUSCO a intensifié ses efforts de sécurisation autour de Komanda en augmentant la fréquence de ses patrouilles dans la zone.

La MONUSCO reste pleinement engagée aux côtés des autorités congolaises et des communautés locales afin de prévenir de futures attaques, protéger les civils, et contribuer à la réduction des tensions, et à la stabilisation des zones affectées par les violences armées.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

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Foh renoue avec sécurité et développement grâce à un nouveau pont

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Les autorités de la commune de Foh, à environ 60 km de Bouar, ont officiellement réceptionné, le 24 juillet 2025, le pont Bendoue réhabilité par la MINUSCA via ses projets à impact rapide. Sur l’axe stratégique Gallo–Abba, la nouvelle infrastructure rouvre ainsi la voie à la circulation des populations et des biens, ainsi qu’à la mobilité des Forces de défense et de sécurité et des Casques bleus. Une belle contribution au développement de la région.

En réceptionnant l’ouvrage, le sous-préfet de Baboua, Jean Norbert Niende, a salué un projet structurant qui répond à un besoin pressant des populations locales. « La réhabilitation du pont de Bendoue facilitera désormais la circulation des personnes, des biens, mais aussi celle des Forces de défense et de sécurité et de la MINUSCA sur l’axe stratégique Gallo-Abba », a-t-il souligné.

Le maire de Foh a également exprimé sa reconnaissance envers la MINUSCA pour « cette action concrète en faveur du développement local. Le pont était un point de blocage important, et aujourd’hui, grâce à ce projet, nos espoirs de relance économique sont ravivés ».

De son côté, le représentant de la MINUSCA à Bouar, Abdou Diouf, a insisté sur l’importance de la préservation des infrastructures. « Nous invitons les autorités locales et la population à faire bon usage de ce pont, à respecter les charges maximales autorisées et à en assurer la maintenance régulière pour qu’il serve longtemps », a-t-il plaidé.

La coupure symbolique du ruban, suivie d’une traversée inaugurale à pied par les officiels et les habitants, puis par un véhicule de la MINUSCA et plusieurs motos ont ainsi mis en service le nouvel ouvrage.

Ce pont est entièrement réhabilité par la Mission à plus de 29 millions de FCFA, illustrant sa volonté renouvelée d’accompagner les efforts des autorités en faveur de la protection des civils, la restauration de l’autorité de l’Etat, de la paix et de la stabilité.

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

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SA’s automotive industry continues to drive investment, jobs and innovation

Source: Government of South Africa

Despite the global headwinds, President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed confidence in South Africa’s auto industry noting that it is making the investments needed to build resilience, protect jobs and lead the way into a new era of green mobility. 

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, the President emphasised that protecting existing jobs in the automotive sector is paramount, particularly in the light of the looming US tariffs. 

“The need to diversify our export base has become all the greater. We are committed to working with the sector to expand its continental footprint, building on the already strong growth of exports to the SADC [Southern African Development Community] region and leveraging the trade relationships that exist,” he said.

The President highlighted that South Africa’s automotive manufacturing industry, with roots dating back over a century, remains one of the country’s most resilient and impactful sectors.

According to the President, the industry has not only cemented itself as the largest manufacturing sector in South Africa but continues to evolve and contribute significantly to the economy.

“Since the first assembly plants were established in the Eastern Cape in the 1920s, the auto industry has grown to become the largest manufacturing sector in the country. South Africa’s role in global vehicle manufacturing has expanded and grown,” he said. 

Major international auto brands, including Toyota, Ford, Nissan, Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, currently operate production plants in the country. These facilities serve both the domestic market and international export destinations, with exports making up around two-thirds of local vehicle production. 

“The sector currently supports more than 115,000 direct manufacturing jobs and more than 500,000 across the value chain. It contributes approximately 5.3% to GDP [Gross Domestic Product].”

Sustainability

However, he cautioned that the industry faces mounting pressures, including new emissions regulations in key markets such as the European Union and fresh tariffs from the United States.

“With exports currently accounting for approximately two-thirds of local vehicle production, it is critical that we strengthen the sector to not only overcome current headwinds, but to ensure its long-term sustainability,” the President said.

Last week, the President attended the launch of BMW’s new X3 plug-in hybrid at the company’s Rosslyn plant in Tshwane. South Africa is the exclusive global production site for this model. 

READ | President hails BMW’s local production of plug-in hybrid as milestone for green mobility

The President said the shift from internal combustion engines (ICE) towards hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) in a number of markets means that green mobility is becoming increasingly important for automotive manufacturers. 

He described BMW’s latest investment, which follows its pledge at the 2023 South Africa Investment Conference as “a welcome signal to investors that South Africa remains a favourable place to do business.” 

Government, he said, is actively working to ensure an enabling regulatory and policy environment that supports growth in the automotive sector. He pointed to the Automotive Production and Development Programme as a key mechanism to position South Africa “as a key global manufacturing base for vehicles of the future.”

Youth development

Beyond manufacturing, the President emphasised the sector’s contribution to youth development and skills training.

“BMW, for example, has a training academy that focuses on competencies like EV assembly and robotics. The company is also a founding partner of the Youth Employment Service (YES), which was established between Government and the private sector to create work experience opportunities for young people.

“BMW’s participation in this programme has supported more than 3,500 young people with training and work placements across all nine provinces.”

President Ramaphosa also encouraged other companies to follow BMW’s example and broaden their involvement in the YES programme. 

“We have invited more companies to participate in the Youth Employment Service programme as broadly as BMW has done. 
“We are working to ensure that more production takes place locally, creating more employment. To do this, we must upskill our workforce and facilitate the creation of new companies across the value chain,” he said. 

He also acknowledged the role of the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone’s Centre of Excellence, which includes an artisan training academy, incubation hub, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education initiatives for high school learners. 

“There are also a number of industry-driven training initiatives focusing on technical and artisanal skills, and deepening collaboration between Government departments, vocational colleges and companies to grow a new skills pipeline,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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NSFAS reaffirms commitment to transforming higher education under new leadership

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Board has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Ministry of Higher Education and Training and the broader government vision of transforming the higher education sector through innovative funding models and inclusive policies.

The recommitment comes after the recent appointment of new Higher Education and Training Minister, Buti Manamela and Deputy Minister Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

The NSFAS Board extended its congratulations to both appointees and expressed confidence in their leadership.

“The board is confident that Minister Manamela’s leadership will inspire ongoing progress and innovation within the sector, thereby promoting greater access and success for South Africa’s students. We look forward to collaborating closely with the Minister to advance accessible, high-quality higher education for all South Africans,” NSFAS said in a statement.

The board also welcomed Dube-Ncube to her new role, commending her extensive experience in public service.

“Her unwavering dedication will undoubtedly enhance the ministry’s efforts to support learners and institutions nationwide,” NSFAS said.

The appointments were announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa last week, following the removal of Dr Nobuhle Nkabane as Minister of Higher Education and Training.

Manamela previously served as Deputy Minister in the same department, a role he held from the 6th administration. 

President Ramaphosa appointed Dube-Ncube in terms of Section 93(b) of the Constitution.

Dube-Ncube brings a wealth of experience, having served as the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal and as MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, among other senior roles.

NSFAS reiterated its role as a key partner in the national effort to improve access and quality in higher education.

“NSFAS remains dedicated to supporting the ministry’s vision and government’s vision of transforming higher education through innovative funding solutions and inclusive policies. The board looks forward to collaborating with both the Minister and the Deputy Minister to further these important goals,” NSFAS said.

Both Manamela and Dube-Ncube were sworn in as Minister and Deputy Minister during a ceremony, held at Tuynhuys in the presence of President Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile. – SAnews.gov.za

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Africa’s Lithium Market Expansion Ahead of African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO


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Africa’s lithium industry is gaining strong momentum in 2025, marked by new project launches, significant discoveries, increased capital inflows and progress in local value addition. In a major milestone for downstream development, Zimbabwe’s Verify Engineering announced in July the successful production of the country’s first locally manufactured lithium-ion battery. The development aligns with Zimbabwe’s national strategy to ban unprocessed lithium exports by 2027 – a move aimed at driving beneficiation, enhancing domestic industrial capacity and positioning the country as a competitive player in the global battery value chain.

These advancements lay the foundation for the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders – which will spotlight emerging opportunities across the continent’s lithium value chain.

AMW serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

New Discoveries

As the official platform for advancing Africa’s mining prospects, AMW 2025 will provide global stakeholders with key updates on the continent’s latest lithium discoveries and project developments. Among these, UK-based Aterian and global major Rio Tinto announced Rwanda’s first lithium find at the HCK Lithium Project in July 2025 – marking a pivotal milestone in the country’s mining sector. Meanwhile, in Ivory Coast, Atlantic Lithium reported the discovery of spodumene-bearing pegmatites at its Agboville and Rubino licenses in March 2025. The find comes as the company progresses its flagship Ewoyaa Lithium Project in Ghana, set to become the country’s first industrial-scale lithium operation.

First Production Milestones

AMW 2025 will also spotlight Africa’s growing lithium production capacity and its rising contribution to the global battery mineral supply chain, as several first-production milestones are achieved across the continent. In July, Premier African Minerals commenced operations at its Zulu Lithium Plant in Zimbabwe, reinforcing the country’s role as a leading global lithium producer. Earlier in February, UK-based Kodal Minerals began spodumene concentrate production at its Boungouni Project in Mali, targeting a steady monthly output of 10,000 tons, primarily destined for export to China. Meanwhile, Mali’s Goulamina Project – operated by China’s Ganfeng Lithium – achieved first production in January, with Phase 1 capacity reaching 506,000 tons, positioning the site among the largest lithium operations worldwide.

New Financing Unlocking Africa’s Potential

AMW will also showcase financing deals and innovative mechanisms accelerating the growth of the lithium sector. In July, Canada’s Lithium Africa raised over C$3.4 million through a private placement to fund exploration and development projects across Morocco, the Ivory Coast, Guinea, Mali and Zimbabwe. That same month, Nigeria’s Continental Lithium expanded its working capital through a strategic merger with Chariot Corporation to support its hard rock lithium assets in Oyo and Kwara states. Meanwhile, in May, U.S. startup KoBold Metals pledged $1 billion to develop the Manono Lithium Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, following its acquisition of project operator AVZ Minerals.

As Africa rapidly positions itself as a major hub for lithium production, AMW serves as the focal point for industry dialogue. The event will spotlight investment-ready opportunities and facilitate deal-making between African stakeholders and global financiers, advancing the continent’s ambitions in the lithium space.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Southern Africa Leaders Unite to Advance Bold Health Agenda for Resilience and Equity

Source: APO


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Ministers of Health and senior representatives from ten African Union (AU) Member States in Southern Africa issued a renewed call for collective action on health financing, climate resilience, and outbreak preparedness as they gathered in Lilongwe from 24–25 July 2025 for the 4th Southern Africa Regional Ministerial Steering Committee (ReSCO) Meeting.

The Government of Malawi hosted the meeting, which was officially opened by Hon. Khumbize Chiponda, Malawi’s Minister of Health, representing the Right Honourable Vice President, Dr. Michael Biswick Usi. The meeting was convened under the theme “One Region, One Health, One Future,” reaffirming the region’s collective commitment to protecting the health of its people.

ReSCO has become a vital platform for countries to align regional priorities and advance the continental health agenda, at a time when Southern Africa faces rising climate-related health threats, persistent disease outbreaks, and growing demands on frontline health systems.

In his keynote address, Dr Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), called for transformative investments to secure Africa’s health future.

“Africa’s health future must be shaped by African leaders, for African people,” said Dr Kaseya. “To get there, we must ignite a revolution in health financing, one that invests in regional institutions, accelerates local manufacturing, and ensures sustainable systems that serve our communities.”

Over the course of the two-day deliberations, ministers resoundingly affirmed the urgency of collective leadership and regional unity in advancing health security. Opening the meeting, Hon. Dr Esperance Luvindao, Minister of Health and Social Services of Namibia, issued a powerful call for solidarity, urging Member States to act with resolve in confronting shared public health challenges. Reinforcing this message, Hon. Dr Elijah Muchima, Minister of Health of Zambia and Chair of the Africa CDC Governing Board, reminded delegates that “One Region, One Health, One Future” is not merely a thematic expression, it is a strategic imperative that must drive coordinated action across the continent.

The Committee adopted several major outcomes that will shape the region’s health trajectory. These included the appointment of Hon. Dr Douglas T. Mombeshora as Regional Champion for Climate and Health, acknowledging the urgent link between environmental factors and public health threats. Hon. Dr Luvindao was also named Regional Champion for the Lusaka Agenda on Health Financing, reinforcing the region’s drive to increase domestic investment in health.

Member States also approved the Southern Africa Region Annual Report and endorsed major recommendations from the 8th Ordinary and 9th Extraordinary Regional Technical Advisory Committee (ReTAC) meetings. These included practical guidance on the implementation of the Continental Immunisation Strategy (CIS) and improved community-based outbreak surveillance. The Committee further adopted Africa CDC’s “Green Book” vision, a continent-wide pact aimed at rethinking health financing, governance, and service delivery.

A key highlight of the meeting was the Southern Africa ReSCO Award Ceremony, which honoured visionary leaders for their outstanding contributions to strengthening public health across the region. Dr Kaseya was recognised for his exceptional leadership at the continental level. Dr Kalumbi Shangula, former Minister of Health and Social Services of Namibia, and Hon. Sylvia T. Masebo, former Minister of Health of Zambia, were celebrated for their enduring public service and unwavering commitment to regional collaboration. Dr Lul P. Riek, Regional Director of the Southern Africa RCC, received special commendation for his instrumental role in operationalising the Southern Africa Regional Coordinating Centre and advancing regional public health coordination.

These recognitions highlighted a central theme of the meeting: that real progress depends not just on frameworks and funding, but on the commitment, leadership, and unity of those entrusted with protecting the health of communities.

As the meeting concluded, Member States reaffirmed their resolve to scale up implementation of the African Union’s 2 Million Community Health Workers Initiative, advance the Lusaka Agenda on Health Financing, and strengthen regional public health systems.

With renewed solidarity and political will, Southern African countries are poised to turn commitments into action. The outcomes of the 4th Southern Africa Regional Ministerial Steering Committee Meeting mark a decisive shift, from dialogue to delivery. Africa CDC calls on all stakeholders, governments, and partners to act with urgency: invest in frontline capacity, empower health workers, and build resilient systems that leave no community behind.

Namibia was selected as the host of the 5th Southern Africa Regional Ministerial Steering Committee Meeting in 2026.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

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Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) condemns abduction of Health Ministry staff in Morobo County, and urges for immediate protection of healthcare workers

Source: APO


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Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) strongly condemns the abduction of a Ministry of Health (MoH) staff member from an MSF ambulance in South Sudan’s Morobo County, Central Equatoria State, at around 10:00 am on 25 July 2025. Although the staff member was released unharmed on 26 July, this incident further highlights the growing violence against healthcare workers in South Sudan.

The staff member was accompanying patients who had been referred for advanced medical care in Yei and were returning to Morobo after their discharge. During the journey, armed individuals intercepted the ambulance, forced the MoH staff member to leave the vehicle, and abducted her. The MSF driver, other staff, and patients were allowed to continue.

“What we are witnessing is a disturbing and unacceptable trend, where the impartial provision of healthcare services faces indiscriminate attacks,” says Dr. Ferdinand Atte, MSF’s head of mission in South Sudan. “This incident is not just an attack on one individual; it is a direct assault on the healthcare system meant to serve the most vulnerable in our communities.”

Over the past few months, there has been a deeply concerning rise in attacks on healthcare in South Sudan. MSF has been forced to close two hospitals in South Sudan due to these attacks. In Yei and Morobo counties, the volatile security situation continues to present ongoing challenges for the delivery of medical and humanitarian services. In May, MSF made the difficult decision to reduce its outreach services in these counties due to increased insecurity. As a result, MSF provided only 3,427 consultations in May and June 2025—half the number recorded during the same period in 2024. This sharp decline leaves already isolated communities, who live far from health facilities, with even fewer life-saving medical services.

Attacks on healthcare workers and facilities not only endanger the safety of health workers but also disrupt critical access to medical care for vulnerable communities that depend on these services.

MSF has been working in South Sudan for over 40 years, responding to major crises including conflicts, floods, and disease outbreaks, and continues to deliver lifesaving care despite ongoing violence. But no medical worker should have to risk their lives to save others. This is already the fourth serious security incident affecting MSF in just seven months, putting both our staff and the patients who rely on us at risk.

“MSF continues to call on all parties involved in the ongoing conflict in South Sudan to fulfil their obligations to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including healthcare workers, patients, and medical facilities and guarantee safe access to populations in need. Healthcare workers must never be targeted,” Dr Ferdinand adds. 

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