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Remarks by Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile during the Ribbon Cutting / Opening of the South Africa National Pavilion at the China International Supply Chain Expo held at the Shunyi Centre in Beijing, China

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director, Ms Lin Honghong, Head of International Relations, Depart of CCPIT;
Mr Parks Tau, Honourable Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition of the Republic of South Africa;
Mr Ren Hongbin, Chairman, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT);
Ministers and Deputy Ministers;
Charge D’Affaires, South African Embassy in Beijing;
Consul General of SA in Shanghai;
Members of the Diplomatic Corps;
Leaders and CEOs of Businesses;
Ladies and gentlemen;

Good afternoon.

It is with great pleasure and honour that I stand before you today to open the South Africa National Pavilion at the China International Supply Chain Expo.

This opening highlights a remarkable milestone in the partnership between South Africa and China and showcases the strength and diversity of South Africa’s capabilities in the competitive global market.

South Africa and China maintain a strong and growing economic relationship within the global economy, characterised by increasing trade and investment, particularly since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1998.

China has become South Africa’s largest trading partner, both globally and within Africa, while South Africa is a key partner for China on the African continent.

Our participation in forums such as BRICS and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) further strengthens this relationship. South Africa acknowledges that strengthening partnerships with China in various forms is crucial for mutual benefit and global stability.

This morning, I delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the China International Supply Chain (CISCE) 2025, and I am grateful to the People’s Republic of China for giving South Africa an opportunity to outline its strategic objectives of strengthening trade and investment.

Less than a month ago, South Africa participated for the very first time at the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, in Hunan Province, China (CAETE 2025), wherein 25 South African companies participated and exhibited the finest of South African products and services at this Economic and Trade Expo.

It is also important to mention that South Africa was awarded a Country of Guest of Honour status by the government of the People’s Republic of China. As a country, we welcome all opportunities for South Africa to showcase its goods and services.

Ladies and gentlemen,

South Africa plans to establish a more permanent presence in China through a permanent exhibition, ensuring that our offerings remain accessible even when our producers, manufacturers, and distributors are not physically present in the country.

The opening of the 2025 South African National Pavilion is a focused response to resolutions made at the FOCAC in Beijing in 2024. This is significant in that it demonstrates how South Africa is an important trade partner to China. 

Through this pavilion, we look forward to fostering strong collaborations, forging new partnerships, and exploring opportunities for growth and mutual prosperity. The China International Supply Chain Expo provides us with a platform to showcase our unique offerings, engage with industry leaders, and further enhance our presence in the global marketplace.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Please be informed that during the financial year 2025/2026, South Africa will also be hosting an Inward Procurement Buying Mission on the margins of the G20 Summit in November 2025, and this will be preceded by South Africa’s participation at this year’s China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025 in Shanghai, China.

South Africa’s participation in these events is an opportunity provided by the Chinese government through bilateral economic relations to advance more South African value-added products of the top 100 products.

We are hopeful that South African exhibitors will make use of these opportunities to promote South African offerings and enter into significant and long-term contracts with their Chinese counterparts.

I would like to conclude my remarks by reiterating that 31 South African entities from a variety of sectors, including Agro-Processing, Electronics, Chemicals, Leather, Footwear and Textiles, Cosmetics, Mining Services, and the creative industries, are represented. 

We are delighted that Tourism South Africa is also in attendance to facilitate the visitation of our Chinese buyers and their first-hand encounters with the beauty and splendour of our country.

I am also pleased to inform you that we will conclude our visit with an Investment Roundtable that will bring together Chinese investors from various sectors who are keen on making South Africa their investment destination. We have tailor-made projects that we will profile for their consideration.

Lastly, I invite you to come with us to explore the best of South African products, and we wish you every success during the five-day exhibition event.

On this note, ladies and gentlemen.

I declare the South African National Pavilion at the 2025 CISCE OPEN!!!

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O Simpósio das Conferências Episcopais de África e Madagáscar (SCEAM) Anuncia 20th Assembleia Plenária no Ruanda

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Simpósio das Conferências Episcopais de África e Madagáscar (SCEAM) (https://SECAM.org) tem o prazer de anunciar a sua 20ª Assembleia Plenária, agendada para 30 de julho a 4 de agosto de 2025 em Kigali, Ruanda, sob o tema: “Cristo, Fonte de Esperança, Reconciliação e Paz”. Esta Assembleia, que coincide com o Ano Jubilar, oferece um momento de profunda graça eclesial para avaliar a vida e a missão da Igreja em África e estabelecer um roteiro visionário para os próximos 25 anos (2025-2050).

Um marco eclesial continental

A Assembleia Plenária do SCEAM é o encontro mais importante da Igreja Católica em África e nas suas ilhas. Realizada de três em três anos, reúne um número significativo de Cardeais, Arcebispos, Bispos, sacerdotes, religiosos e religiosas e fiéis leigos de todo o continente e não só. Espera-se que esta 20ª edição acolha aproximadamente 250 participantes de todos os 54 países africanos e das suas ilhas, juntamente com dignitários convidados e parceiros da Igreja de outros continentes, tornando-a um evento eclesial verdadeiramente continental e global. Será um momento privilegiado de reflexão, comunhão e tomada de decisões para a vida e a missão da Igreja em África.

A Assembleia será presidida por Sua Eminência o Cardeal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, Arcebispo de Kinshasa e Presidente do SCEAM. Com base no mandato da 19ª Assembleia Plenária em Acra (julho de 2022), a Assembleia de Kigali avaliará o progresso no fortalecimento da sinodalidade, autonomia institucional, fundamentos teológicos e colaboração regional em toda a Igreja em África.

Promoção de uma visão partilhada

Desde 2022, o SCEAM tem trabalhado através do seu Comité Permanente e Secretariado para promover uma maior comunhão e missão através de:

  • Promover a sinodalidade e a participação a todos os níveis;
  • Reforço da autossuficiência institucional e financeira;
  • Melhoria da reflexão teológica e do cuidado pastoral;
  • Promoção de parcerias intercontinentais e ecuménicas;
  • Fazer ouvir a voz de África em questões globais como as alterações climáticas, a justiça e a paz.

Abordar as realidades pastorais e culturais

Uma das principais questões em análise será o acompanhamento pastoral dos católicos em uniões poligâmicas, uma realidade cultural complexa nas sociedades africanas e não só. O SCEAM envolveu teó.s de todo o continente para explorar este tópico teológica e pastoralmente.

A Assembleia contará também com apresentações importantes, incluindo:

  • Uma reflexão teológica sobre o tema: “Cristo, Fonte de Esperança, Reconciliação e Paz”
  • Um projeto de documento intitulado: “A visão da Igreja-Família de Deus em África e nas suas ilhas: 2025-2050”
  • Um documento pastoral sobre “Acompanhamento de pessoas em situações de poligamia”

Estes documentos serão completados por debates em plenário, grupos de trabalho, celebrações litúrgicas, relatórios dos departamentos e uma mensagem conclusiva para a Igreja e a sociedade.

Os doze pilares do futuro da Igreja

No início deste ano, em preparação para a Assembleia, o SCEAM realizou um seminário de alto nível em Accra (abril de 2025) para desenvolver uma visão a longo prazo para a Igreja africana. As discussões centraram-se em torno de doze pilares fundamentais:

  1. Evangelização (educação católica e formação teológica)
  2. Uma Igreja autossuficiente;
  3. Modelos de liderança baseados na família;
  4. Discipulado missionário e sinodalidade;
  5. Cuidado com a criação;
  6. Envolvimento dos jovens e renovação eclesial;
  7. Justiça, paz e desenvolvimento humano integral;
  8. Ecumenismo e diá. inter-religioso;
  9. Evangelização digital;
  10. Saúde e bem-estar do povo de Deus;
  11. Vida litúrgica em contextos africanos;
  12. Igreja e empenhamento político.

Este documento de visão estratégica será apresentado para discussão e possível adoção pelos bispos na Assembleia de Kigali.

Envolver os desafios sócio-políticos de África

De acordo com a sua missão profética, o SCEAM também avaliará a atual dinâmica política e social nas regiões de África, com enfoque em:

  • Governação e liderança pública;
  • Direitos humanos e justiça social;
  • Pobreza e dívida;
  • Clima e gestão ambiental;
  • Diá., construção da paz e relações inter-religiosas;
  • Salvaguarda e proteção da juventude.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

Para questões relacionadas com a comunicação social ou mais informações, contactar:
communications.secam@gmail.com
www.SECAM.org

Rev. P. Rafael Simbine Júnior
Secretário-Geral, SCEAM
Accra, Gana

Sobre o SCEAM:
Fundado em 1969 durante a histórica visita do Papa Paulo VI a África, o SCEAM é a estrutura continental da Igreja Católica em África e Madagáscar. A sua missão é fomentar a comunhão, promover a evangelização e ser a voz moral e espiritual da Igreja em todo o continente.

Os seus departamentos principais incluem:

  • Comissão para a Evangelização;
  • Comissão de Justiça, Paz e Desenvolvimento (JPDC);
  • Departamento de Comunicação Social.

Para além disso, o SCEAM gere um Gabinete de Ligação com a União Africana, com sede em Adis Abeba, para assegurar a participação da Igreja na definição de políticas e na defesa de causas a nível continental.

O SCEAM é composto por oito organismos episcopais regionais:

  • ACEAC (África Central), ACERAC (África Central), AHCE (Egito), AMECEA (África Oriental), CEDOI (Oceano Índico), CERNA (Norte de África), IMBISA (África Austral), RECOWA-CERAO (África Ocidental).
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Africa Sports Unified (ASU) lança ‘ASU Insider’ – uma plataforma estratégica de adesão para líderes do desporto africano

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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As candidaturas para o Círculo Fundador já estão abertas. Como a página de espera está disponível apenas em inglês, por favor entre em contacto com info@asunified.com caso tenha alguma dúvida.

Africa Sports Unified (ASU), o primeiro e principal hub de negócios desportivos pan-africano do mundo, tem o prazer de anunciar o lançamento do ASU Insider — uma nova plataforma estratégica de adesão desenvolvida para capacitar os decisores e os principais intervenientes que impulsionam o crescimento do desporto em África.

“Nos últimos 18 meses, falámos com várias partes interessadas para entender o que valorizam e o que está a travar o setor,” disse Gabriel Ajala, fundador da Africa Sports Unified. “Foi absolutamente claro: o que falta é uma plataforma de confiança, informações relevantes e conexões significativas. O ASU Insider é a solução — fornecendo ferramentas, contexto e relações para liderar, colaborar e crescer em todo o continente.”

ASU Insider | Círculo Fundador

Como parte da fase piloto da plataforma, a ASU abre candidaturas para o Círculo Fundador do ASU Insider — um grupo seleto de 10 participantes que serão os primeiros a experimentar a nova plataforma e a moldar diretamente a sua direção.

O que os membros do Círculo Fundador irão receber:

  • Relatórios Mensais de Inteligência de Mercado: informações exclusivas sobre políticas, investimentos, direitos e tendências de governança no desporto africano
  • Sessões ao Vivo com Especialistas: discussões privadas com vozes influentes do desporto, desenvolvimento e negócios
  • Acesso Prioritário a Relatórios, Ferramentas e Bases de Dados da ASU
  • Acesso Estratégico e Consultivo: acesso curado à equipa da ASU e à sua rede de líderes continentais
  • Influência precoce no roteiro de pesquisa da ASU: os membros fundadores ajudam a definir as prioridades da plataforma

Público-alvo:

  • Ministérios governamentais e líderes políticos
  • Detentores de direitos (clubes, federações, etc.)
  • Organizações intergovernamentais e instituições financeiras de desenvolvimento
  • Patrocinadores e marcas
  • Investidores
  • Instituições de financiamento para o desenvolvimento

Candidaturas Abertas

As candidaturas para o Círculo Fundador já estão abertas.

[ASU Insider | Circulo Fundador]: http://apo-opa.co/40UumsU

Os membros do Círculo Fundador terão uma influência precoce e um papel central na transformação do desporto africano.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Africa Sports Unified.

Para contactos com a imprensa:
info@asunified.com

Redes Sociais: 
Linktree: https://apo-opa.co/46N5UgX
Videos: https://apo-opa.co/4nHE3Vs
Website: https://ASUnified.com/

Sobre a Africa Sports Unified:
Africa Sports Unified é o principal hub de negócios desportivos pan-africano do mundo. Impulsiona o crescimento económico e a inovação na indústria, através de análises orientadas por dados, consultoria estratégica e envolvimento comunitário.

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Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) Announces 20th Plenary Assembly in Rwanda

Source: APO – Report:

The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) (https://SECAM.org) is pleased to announce its 20th Plenary Assembly, scheduled to take place from 30 July to 4 August 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, under the theme: “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace.” This Assembly, coinciding with the Jubilee Year, offers a moment of deep ecclesial grace to evaluate the life and mission of the Church in Africa and to set forth a visionary roadmap for the next 25 years (2025–2050).

A Continental Ecclesial Milestone

The Plenary Assembly of SECAM is the most important gathering of the Catholic Church in Africa and its Islands. Held every three years, it brings together a significant number of Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, priests, religious men and women, and lay faithful from across the continent and beyond. This 20th edition is expected to host approximately 250 participants from all 54 African countries and its islands, along with invited dignitaries and Church partners from other continents, making it a truly continental and global ecclesial event. It will serve as a privileged moment of reflection, communion, and decision-making for the life and mission of the Church in Africa.

The Assembly will be presided over by His Eminence Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo Besungu, Archbishop of Kinshasa and President of SECAM. Building on the mandate of the 19th Plenary Assembly in Accra (July 2022), the Kigali Assembly will evaluate progress in strengthening synodality, institutional autonomy, theological foundations, and regional collaboration across the Church in Africa.

Advancing a Shared Vision

Since 2022, SECAM has worked through its Standing Committee and Secretariat to promote greater communion and mission through:

  • Advancing synodality and participation at all levels;
  • Strengthening institutional and financial self-reliance;
  • Enhancing theological reflection and pastoral care;
  • Fostering intercontinental and ecumenical partnerships;
  • Raising Africa’s voice on global issues such as climate change, justice, and peace.

Addressing Pastoral and Cultural Realities

One major issue under review will be the pastoral accompaniment of Catholics in polygamous unions, a complex cultural reality in African societies and beyond. SECAM has engaged theologians across the continent to explore this topic theologically and pastorally.

The Assembly will also feature key presentations, including:

  • A theological reflection on the theme: “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace”
  • A draft document entitled: “The Vision of the Church–Family of God in Africa and its Islands: 2025–2050”
  • A pastoral document on “Accompaniment of Persons in Polygamous Situations”

These will be complemented by plenary discussions, working groups, liturgical celebrations, departmental reports, and a concluding message to the Church and society.

The Twelve Pillars of the Church’s Future

Earlier this year, in preparation for the Assembly, SECAM held a high-level seminar in Accra (April 2025) to develop a long-term vision for the African Church. Discussions centered around twelve key pillars:

  1. Evangelization (Catholic education and theological formation)
  2. A self-reliant Church;
  3. Family-based models of leadership;
  4. Missionary discipleship and synodality;
  5. Care for creation;
  6. Youth engagement and ecclesial renewal;
  7. Justice, peace, and integral human development;
  8. Ecumenism and interfaith dialogue;
  9. Digital evangelization;
  10. Health and well-being of God’s people;
  11. Liturgical life in African contexts;
  12. Church and political engagement.

This strategic vision document will be presented for discussion and possible adoption by the bishops at the Kigali Assembly.

Engaging Africa’s Socio-Political Challenges

In keeping with its prophetic mission, SECAM will also assess current political and social dynamics across the regions of Africa, with a focus on:

  • Governance and public leadership;
  • Human rights and social justice;
  • Poverty and debt;
  • Climate and environmental stewardship;
  • Dialogue, peacebuilding, and interreligious relations;
  • Safeguarding and youth protection.

– on behalf of Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
communications.secam@gmail.com
www.SECAM.org

Rev. Fr. Rafael Simbine Júnior
Secretary General, SECAM
Accra, Ghana

About SECAM:
Founded in 1969 during Pope St. Paul VI’s historic visit to Africa, SECAM is the continental structure of the Catholic Church in Africa and Madagascar. Its mission is to foster communion, promote evangelization, and be the moral and spiritual voice of the Church across the continent.

Its key departments include:

  • Commission for Evangelization;
  • Justice, Peace and Development Commission (JPDC);
  • Department of Social Communication.

In addition, SECAM operates a Liaison Office to the African Union based in Addis Ababa to ensure Church participation in continental policymaking and advocacy.

SECAM is composed of eight regional episcopal bodies:

  • ACEAC (Central Africa), ACERAC (Central Africa), AHCE (Egypt), AMECEA (Eastern Africa), CEDOI (Indian Ocean), CERNA (North Africa), IMBISA (Southern Africa), RECOWA-CERAO (West Africa).
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‘A Dream Realized’: Mercy Ships Supports First-Of-Its-Kind African Dental Education Symposium

Source: APO – Report:

What began as a dream two years ago has now become a reality in Casablanca, Morocco. On July 11 and 12, 2025, representatives from 24 nations across the continent gathered at Université Mohammed VI des Sciences de la Santé (UM6SS) for the inaugural African Dental Education Symposium, which culminated in the creation of the groundbreaking African Education Dental Association (AEDA).

The need for an association of this kind is pressing, as African nations face a critical shortage of dental professionals. According to the World Health Organization, there are just 0.44 dentists per 10,000 people (https://apo-opa.co/46H8Yv2) in Africa, compared to around 7 per 10,000 (https://apo-opa.co/4f0Tgx6) in many high-income countries. Only 84 dental schools operate (https://apo-opa.co/46H8Yv2) across 26 African nations. This contributes to the fact that, as of 2021, around 42% of Africa’s population have untreated oral diseases.

The symposium, initiated by Professor Ihsane Benyayha, Dean of the UM6SS Dental School, and supported by international surgical charity Mercy Ships, brought together deans and directors from dental schools across Africa. This gathering, and its successful signing of a new association, marks a new chapter in intentional collaboration and innovation in dental education.

“I think that we, as African leaders, African professors, African dentists, we can do a lot for our countries. We should help each other. I see that we have an American Dental Education Association, and a European one… Why not an African Education Dental Association?” said Professor Benyayha.

“We’re at a time where it should no longer be acceptable for any country to have one dentist per 1 million people. Now is the time to solve this issue and overcome it. All the stakeholders and leaders we need are in this room. We need to ask ourselves; how can we take the next step?” said Dr. David Ugai, Mercy Ships Country Director for Guinea.

The African Dental Education Symposium centered around a clear purpose: to catalyze African nations collaborating in new and dynamic ways to train dental professionals, develop sustainable education programs, and strengthen access to dental health throughout the continent.

Key to fulfilling this mission is the launch of the African Education Dental Association, modeled after similar associations in the United States and Europe. The association will provide African dental educators with a unified voice, a space for sharing best practices, and a clear structure for long-term collaboration.

“This is the realization of a great dream… This symposium is a necessity because everyone was in their own countries, working in isolation. But thanks to the symposium, we will be able to join forces, combine efforts, and try to share our points of view. Cooperation between African countries will allow the various dental schools in Africa to speak with one voice,” said Professor Mohamed Siddick Fadiga, Head of the Department of the Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry Dental School in Guinea.

The symposium also featured international leaders, including the FDI World Dental Federation, the American Dental Education Association, and Association for Dental Education in Europe, offering their support as African deans and program directors take the lead in transforming dental education for the next generation.

As of 2025, Mercy Ships has partnered with UM6SS to support the training of more than 20 dental professionals from Guinea, Benin, and Madagascar in advanced specialization programs. After graduating, these students will return home equipped to teach, mentor, and expand access to dental care in their own communities.

“This symposium is the first to my knowledge. It’s the first time I’ve seen so many schools come together in one country to discuss the problems of dental education in Africa. So, it’s quite clear that this symposium is part of the history of dental education in Africa, and I hope it’s just the first of more,” said Professor El Hadj Babacar Mbodj, Dean of UCAD Dental School in Senegal.

Mercy Ships’ partnerships extend far beyond Morocco. Across Africa, long-term collaboration with universities and ministries of health is helping expand infrastructure, enhance clinical training, and equip faculty to strengthen dental healthcare capacity. These efforts currently span the continent, including:

  • In Guinea, Mercy Ships’ ongoing partnership with Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry (UGANC) has revitalized the nation’s dental education opportunities and renovations have more than doubled the school’s training capacity.
  • In Senegal, an upcoming expansion to the dental school at Universite Cheikh Anta Diop in Dakar will increase clinical training chairs from 30 to over 70.
  • In Togo, Mercy Ships is helping to build the first simulation and clinical training space at the University of Lomé, which first opened a dental program in 2019.
  • In Benin, Mercy Ships is training future educators to reopen the nation’s only dental school, which closed in 2018 due to a lack of specialty professors and infrastructure.
  • In Burkina Faso, a brand-new partnership will support training faculty development at the country’s growing dental school.
  • In Madagascar, Mercy Ships is sponsoring dentists for specialization to become specialists and future national university professors.
  • In Sierra Leone, Guinea-Bissau, and Liberia, Mercy Ships is sponsoring a student exchange program through Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry that will increase access to dental education and expand the dentist workforce in their respective countries.

“In the school’s years of existence, we have never thought about the next generation of teachers. But thanks to this partnership with Mercy Ships, we have hope for the survival of the school with the continuity of these young graduates who will return with their diplomas to our country. So, this partnership, for us, is very precious,” shared Professor Jeannot Randrianarivony, Dean of the University of Mahajanga Dental School in Madagascar.

The African Dental Education Symposium reflects the heart of Mercy Ships’ mission: to bring hope and healing through surgical care and education, training, and advocacy. Events like the symposium offer a glimpse into a sustainable future where nations are equipped, educators are empowered, and communities have access to the care they need.

– on behalf of Mercy Ships.

For more information about Mercy Ships, contact:
Eveline Vanduynhoven
International PR manager – Special Projects
Mercy Ships
international.media@mercyships.org

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

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

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Africa Sports Unified (ASU) launches ‘ASU Insider’ – A Strategic Membership Platform for African Sport Leaders

Source: APO – Report:

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Africa Sports Unified (ASU) (https://ASUnified.com), the world’s first and leading Pan-African Sports Business Hub, is pleased to announce the launch of ASU Insider – a new strategic membership platform designed to empower decision-makers and key stakeholders driving the growth of sport across Africa.

“Over the past 18 months, we’ve spoken with key stakeholders to understand what they value and what’s holding the industry back,” said Gabriel Ajala, Founder of Africa Sports Unified. “It was overwhelmingly clear: what’s missing is a trusted platform, real insights and meaningful connections. ASU Insider in the solution – providing the tools, context, and relationships to lead, partner and grow across the continent.”

The ASU Insider | Founding Circle

As part of the platform’s pilot phase, ASU is opening applications for the ASU Insider | Founding Circle — a handpicked group of 10 stakeholders who will be early adopters of the new platform and play a direct role in shaping its roadmap.

What Founding Circle Members Receive:

  • Monthly Market Intelligence Briefings: Exclusive insights on policy, investment, rights, and governance trends shaping African sport
  • Expert Led Live Session: Closed-door discussions with influential voices in sports, development, and business
  • Priority Access to ASU Reports, Tools, and Data Assets
  • Advisory Access and Strategic Introductions: Curated access to ASU’s team and network of continental leaders.
  • Early Influence on ASU’s Research Roadmap: Founding members help shape the platform’s direction.

Who It’s For:

  • Government Ministries & Policy Leaders
  • Rights Holders (Clubs, Federations etc.)
  • Inter-Governmental Organisations & DFIs
  • Sponsors & Brands
  • Investors
  • Development Finance Institutions

Now Accepting Applications

Applications for the Founding Circle are now open.

[ASU Insider | Founding Circle Waitlist Link]: http://apo-opa.co/3THSlrC

Founding Circle members will receive early influence, and a front-row seat to shaping Africa’s sports transformation.

– on behalf of Africa Sports Unified.

For Media Inquiries, please contact:
info@asunified.com

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About Africa sports Unified:
Africa Sports Unified is the world’s leading Pan-African sports business hub. Driving Economic Growth and Industry Innovation, through data-driven insights, strategic consulting, and community engagement.

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What’s Next for African Upstream? African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 to Explore 2026 Market Trends

Source: APO – Report:

.

With Africa’s upstream capital expenditure expected to reach $54 billion by 2030, the continent is gearing up for significant growth. A rise in frontier drilling, untapped resources in proven petroleum plays in tandem with growing global demand for sustainable fuels is expected to drive spending, with African licensing rounds further supporting investments. Amid this growth, key challenges come to the fore, including access to financing and maximizing output at mature fields. As such, the question remains: what’s next for African upstream?

This year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – taking place September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town – will feature a series of presentations and panel discussions tackling this very question. A panel discussion on Frontier Plays Within Africa’s Mature Basins will examine strategies for unlocking additional reserves at mature assets. Speakers include Katrina Fisher, Managing Director at ExxonMobil Angola; Layi Fatona, Chairman of the Board, Renaissance Africa Energy Company; and Osayande Igiehon, Managing Director and CEO, Heirs Energies. As operators focus on perseverance and value creation from late-life assets, the session will explore the benefits of repurposing mature fields to meet anticipated energy demand.

Ahead of the panel discussion, Dan Pratt, Head of Upstream Solutions at global energy and commodities information provider S&P Global Commodity Insights, will deliver a presentation on What’s Next for African Upstream in 2026. The presentation will unpack key challenges and opportunities across the continent’s upstream market. Additionally, Tony Attah, Managing Director and CEO of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, will participate in a Fireside Chat, delving into ongoing projects and future investment strategies.

In 2026, Africa’s upstream sector is set to receive a major boost, with investments by companies such as ExxonMobil set to unlock new reserves as mature fields. In Angola, the company targets greater production at legacy assets, leveraging policies such as the Incremental Production Initiative to bolster output. In June 2025, the company signed a production sharing contract extension for Block 17 offshore Angola. The extension enables the ongoing use of existing infrastructure and technical expertise to maximize value from the mature field. This follows a discovery made by ExxonMobil in 2024 at the Likember-01 research well. The first find under the country’s Incremental Production Initiative, the discovery showcases the potential for greater production.  

Meanwhile, Renaissance Africa Energy Company – a consortium of independent oil and gas companies – is also positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s upstream sector. The company is investing $15 billion across 32 oil and gas projects over the next five years, aiming to establish itself as a prominent player in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. This follows the $1.3 billion acquisition of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria, affirming the company’s role in the country’s upstream sector. For Heirs Energies, investing in both producing and exploration assets is a top priority. As operator of OML 17 in Nigeria, the company has doubled production from 25,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 50,000 bpd since the block’s acquisition from Shell in 2021. Looking ahead, the company strives to replicate this success in other markets and is eyeing new investment opportunities in the Republic of Congo – one of Africa’s biggest oil producers.   

The AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 panel discussions and presentations will explore the impact these investments will have on Africa’s upstream sector. Insights into anticipated drilling campaigns, upcoming projects and challenges will be shared, providing a comprehensive overview of the continent’s upstream market. 

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
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 http://www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

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Le Symposium des Conférences Épiscopales d’Afrique et de Madagascar (SCEAM) Annonce sa 20ème Assemblée Plénière au Rwanda

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Symposium des Conférences Épiscopales d’Afrique et de Madagascar (SCEAM) (https://SECAM.org) a le plaisir d’annoncer sa 20ème Assemblée Plénière qui se tiendra du 30 juillet au 4 août 2025 à Kigali, au Rwanda, sous le thème “Le Christ, source d’espérance, de réconciliation et de paix”. Cette Assemblée, qui coïncide avec l’année jubilaire, offre un moment de profonde grâce ecclésiale pour évaluer la vie et la mission de l’Église en Afrique et pour établir une feuille de route visionnaire pour les 25 prochaines années (2025-2050).

Un jalon ecclésial continental

L’Assemblée plénière du SCEAM est le plus important rassemblement de l’Église catholique en Afrique et dans ses îles. Organisée tous les trois ans, elle rassemble un nombre important de cardinaux, archevêques, évêques, prêtres, religieux et religieuses, et fidèles laïcs de tout le continent et d’ailleurs. Cette 20e édition va accueillir environ 250 participants des 54 pays d’Afrique et de ses îles, ainsi que des dignitaires invités et des partenaires de l’Église d’autres continents, ce qui en fait un événement ecclésial véritablement continental et mondial. Elle constituera un moment privilégié de réflexion, de communion et de prise de décision pour la vie et la mission de l’Église en Afrique.

L’Assemblée sera présidée par Son Éminence Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo Besungu, Archevêque de Kinshasa et Président du SCEAM. S’appuyant sur le mandat de la 19ème Assemblée plénière d’Accra (juillet 2022), l’Assemblée de Kigali évaluera les progrès réalisés dans le renforcement de la synodalité, de l’autonomie institutionnelle, des fondements théologiques et de la collaboration régionale au sein de l’Église en Afrique.

Promouvoir une vision commune

Depuis 2022, le SCEAM a travaillé par le biais de son Comité permanent et de son Secrétariat pour promouvoir une plus grande communion et une plus grande mission sous divers angles :

  • Promouvoir la synodalité et la participation à tous les niveaux ;
  • Renforcer l’autonomie institutionnelle et financière ;
  • Renforcer la réflexion théologique et la pastorale ;
  • Encourager les partenariats intercontinentaux et œcuméniques ;
  • Faire entendre la voix de l’Afrique sur des questions mondiales telles que le changement climatique, la justice et la paix.

Répondre aux réalités pastorales et culturelles

L’accompagnement pastoral des catholiques vivant dans des unions polygames, une réalité culturelle complexe dans les sociétés africaines et au-delà, sera l’une des questions majeures à l’ordre du jour. Le SCEAM a fait appel à des théologiens de tout le continent pour explorer ce sujet d’un point de vue théologique et pastoral.

L’Assemblée comportera également des présentations clés, notamment :

  • Une réflexion théologique sur le thème : “Le Christ, source d’espérance, de réconciliation et de paix” ;
  • Un projet de document intitulé : “La vision de l’Église-Famille de Dieu en Afrique et dans ses îles : 2025-2050” ;
  • Un document pastoral sur “L’accompagnement des personnes en situation de polygamie”.

Ces documents seront complétés par des discussions plénières, des groupes de travail, des célébrations liturgiques, des rapports départementaux et un message final adressé à l’Église et à la société.

Les douze piliers de l’avenir de l’Église

Au début de cette année, en préparation de l’Assemblée, le SCEAM a organisé un séminaire de haut niveau à Accra (avril 2025) afin de développer une vision à long terme pour l’Église africaine. Les discussions se sont articulées autour de douze piliers clés :

  1. L’évangélisation (éducation catholique et formation théologique)
  2. Une Église autonome ;
  3. Modèles de leadership basés sur la famille ;
  4. Le discipulat missionnaire et la synodalité ;
  5. Le soin de la création ;
  6. Engagement des jeunes et renouveau ecclésial ;
  7. Justice, paix et développement humain intégral ;
  8. Œcuménisme et dialogue interreligieux ;
  9. Évangélisation numérique ;
  10. Santé et bien-être du peuple de Dieu ;
  11. Vie liturgique dans les contextes africains ;
  12. Engagement Ecclésial et politique.

Ce document de vision stratégique sera présenté pour discussion et adoption éventuelle par les évêques lors de l’Assemblée de Kigali.

Relever les défis sociopolitiques de l’Afrique

Conformément à sa mission prophétique, le SCEAM évaluera également les dynamiques politiques et sociales actuelles dans toutes les régions d’Afrique, en mettant l’accent sur les points suivants :

  • la gouvernance et le leadership public;
  • les droits de l’homme et la justice sociale;
  • la pauvreté et la dette;
  • la gestion du climat et de l’environnement ;
  • le dialogue, la consolidation de la paix et les relations interreligieuses ;
  • la sauvegarde et la protection de la jeunesse.

Distribué par APO Group pour Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

Pour toute information complémentaire, veuillez contacter :
communications.secam@gmail.com
www.SECAM.org

Rév. Père Rafael Simbine Júnior
Secrétaire général, SCEAM
Accra, Ghana

A propos du SCEAM :
Fondé en 1969 lors de la visite historique du Pape Paul VI en Afrique, le SCEAM est la structure continentale de l’Église catholique en Afrique et à Madagascar. Sa mission est de favoriser la communion, de promouvoir l’évangélisation et d’être la voix morale et spirituelle de l’Église sur le continent et dans ses îles.

Ses principaux départements comprennent :

  • la Commission Évangélisation ;
  • la Commission Justice, Paix et Développement (JPDC) ;
  • les Département de la communication sociale.

En outre, le SCEAM dispose d’un bureau de liaison auprès l’Union africaine, basé à Addis-Abeba, afin d’assurer la participation de l’Église à l’élaboration des politiques et au plaidoyer à l’échelle du continent.

Le SCEAM est composé de huit organes épiscopaux régionaux :

  • ACEAC (Afrique centrale), ACERAC (Afrique centrale), AHCE (Egypte), AMECEA (Afrique de l’Est), CEDOI (Océan Indien), CERNA (Afrique du Nord), IMBISA (Afrique australe), RECOWA-CERAO (Afrique de l’Ouest).
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« Un rêve devenu réalité » : Mercy Ships soutient le premier symposium africain sur l’enseignement dentaire

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Ce qui n’était qu’un rêve il y a deux ans est aujourd’hui devenu réalité à Casablanca, au Maroc. Les 11 et 12 juillet 2025, des représentants de 24 pays du continent se sont réunis à l’Université Mohammed VI des Sciences de la Santé (UM6SS) pour le premier symposium africain sur l’enseignement dentaire, qui a abouti à la création novatrice de l’Association africaine pour l’enseignement dentaire (ADEA). 

La nécessité d’une association de ce type est urgente, car les pays africains sont confrontés à une pénurie critique de professionnels dentaires. Selon l’Organisation mondiale de la santé, on compte seulement 0,44 dentiste pour 10 000 habitants (https://apo-opa.co/46H8Yv2) en Afrique en moyenne, contre environ 7 pour 10 000 (https://apo-opa.co/4f0Tgx6) dans de nombreux pays à revenu élevé, et seulement 84 écoles dentaires sont en activité (https://apo-opa.co/46H8Yv2) dans 26 pays africains. Cette situation participe au fait qu’en 2021, environ 42 % de la population africaine souffrait de maladies bucco-dentaires non traitées.

Le symposium, initié par le Professeur Ihsane Benyayha, doyen de la faculté dentaire de l’UM6SS, et soutenu par l’organisation humanitaire internationale Mercy Ships, a réuni des doyens et des directeurs de facultés dentaires de toute l’Afrique. Cette rencontre, ainsi que la signature de la nouvelle association, marquent un nouveau chapitre dans la collaboration et l’innovation en matière d’enseignement dentaire.

« En tant que dirigeants, professeurs, dentistes africains, nous pouvons faire beaucoup pour nos pays. Nous devons nous entraider. Il existe une association américaine pour l’enseignement dentaire, une association européenne aussi… Pourquoi pas une association africaine pour l’enseignement dentaire ? », a déclaré le professeur Benyayha.

« Nous sommes à une époque où il n’est plus acceptable qu’un pays compte un dentiste pour un million d’habitants, a poursuivi le Dr David Ugai », Directeur national de Mercy Ships pour la Guinée.

 «  Il est temps d’identifier des solutions et de surmonter ce problème. Tous les acteurs et dirigeants dont nous avons besoin sont dans cette salle. Demandons-nous comment aller de l’avant ».

Le symposium africain sur l’enseignement dentaire avait un objectif clair : favoriser une collaboration nouvelle et dynamique entre les pays africains pour former des professionnels dentaires, développer des programmes d’enseignement durables et renforcer l’accès aux soins dentaires sur tout le continent.

Le succès de cette initiative repose sur la création de l’Association africaine pour l’enseignement dentaire, inspirée d’associations similaires aux États-Unis et en Europe. L’ADEA permettra aux enseignants en médecine dentaire africains de s’exprimer d’une seule voix, de partager leurs bonnes pratiques et de bénéficier d’une structure claire pour une collaboration à long terme. 

« C’est la réalisation d’un grand rêve…, a témoigné le professeur Mohamed Siddick Fadiga, directeur du département de l’École dentaire de l’Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry, en Guinée. « Ce symposium est une nécessité, car auparavant chacun travaillait de manière isolée dans son pays. Mais grâce à ce symposium, nous allons pouvoir unir nos forces, conjuguer nos efforts et essayer de partager nos points de vue. La coopération entre les pays africains permettra aux différentes écoles dentaires d’Afrique de porter un message unique. »

Le symposium a également réuni des dirigeants internationaux, notamment la Fédération dentaire internationale (FDI), les associations américaine et européenne de l’enseignement dentaire, qui ont offert leur soutien aux doyens et directeurs de programmes africains qui prennent l’initiative de transformer l’enseignement dentaire pour la prochaine génération.

 Depuis 2025, Mercy Ships s’est associé à l’UM6SS pour soutenir la formation de plus de 20 professionnels dentaires de Guinée, du Bénin et de Madagascar dans le cadre de programmes de spécialisation avancée. Après avoir obtenu leur diplôme, ces étudiants retourneront dans leur pays d’origine avec les compétences nécessaires pour enseigner, encadrer et élargir l’accès aux soins dentaires dans leurs propres communautés.

« À ma connaissance, ce symposium est une première », a souligné le professeur El Hadj Babacar Mbodj, doyen de la faculté dentaire de l’UCAD au Sénégal. « C’est la première fois qu’autant d’écoles se réunissent dans un même pays pour discuter des problèmes liés à l’enseignement dentaire en Afrique. Il est donc évident que ce symposium marque un tournant dans l’histoire de l’enseignement dentaire en Afrique, et j’espère que ce n’est que le début d’une longue série »,

Les partenariats de Mercy Ships s’étendent bien au-delà du Maroc. À travers l’Afrique, une collaboration à long terme solide avec des universités et des ministères de la santé contribue à développer les infrastructures, améliorer la formation clinique et équiper le corps enseignant pour renforcer les capacités en matière de soins dentaires. Ces efforts s’étendent actuellement à tout le continent, notamment en Guinée, au Sénégal, au Togo, au Bénin, au Burkina Faso, à Madagascar.

  • En Guinée, le partenariat durable de Mercy Ships avec l’Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry a redynamisé l’enseignement dentaire, et les rénovations ont plus que doublé la capacité de formation de l’école. 
  • Au Sénégal, l’agrandissement prochain de l’école dentaire de l’Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar permettra de faire passer le nombre de places en formation clinique de 30 à plus de 70.
  • Au Togo, Mercy Ships aide à construire le premier espace de simulation et de formation clinique à l’Université de Lomé, qui a ouvert son premier programme dentaire en 2019.
  • Au Bénin, Mercy Ships forme de futurs enseignants afin de rouvrir la seule école dentaire du pays, qui a fermé en 2018 en raison d’un manque de professeurs spécialisés et d’infrastructures.
  • Au Burkina Faso, un tout nouveau partenariat soutiendra le développement de la formation des enseignants dans l’école dentaire en pleine expansion du pays.
  • À Madagascar, Mercy Ships parraine des dentistes pour qu’ils deviennent des spécialistes et de futurs professeurs d’université nationaux.
  • En Sierra Leone, en Guinée-Bissau et au Liberia, Mercy Ships parraine un programme d’échange d’étudiants par l’intermédiaire de l’Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry, qui permettra d’améliorer l’accès à l’enseignement dentaire et d’augmenter le nombre de dentistes dans ces pays.

« Depuis la création de l’école, nous n’avons jamais pensé à la prochaine génération d’enseignants, » a expliqué le professeur Jeannot Randrianarivony, doyen de la faculté dentaire de l’université de Mahajanga à Madagascar. « Mais grâce à ce partenariat avec Mercy Ships, nous avons l’espoir que l’école perdurera grâce à la contribution des jeunes dentistes qui reviendront dans notre pays avec leur diplôme. Ce partenariat est donc très précieux pour nous. »

Le symposium africain sur l’enseignement dentaire reflète l’essence même de la mission de Mercy Ships : apporter espoir et guérison aux plus démunis grâce à des soins chirurgicaux gratuits, et des programmes de renforcement des capacités médicales. Des événements comme ce symposium laissent entrevoir un avenir durable où les nations sont équipées, les enseignants autonomes et les communautés ont accès aux soins dont elles ont besoin.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mercy Ships.

Pour plus d’informations sur Mercy Ships, veuillez contacter :
Eveline Vanduynhoven
Responsable des relations publiques de Mercy Ships International – Projets spéciax
international.media@mercyships.org

À PROPOS DE MERCY SHIPS :
Mercy Ships est une organisation humanitaire internationale qui exploite les deux plus grands navires-hôpitaux civils au monde, l’Africa Mercy et le Global Mercy, pour fournir des soins de santé gratuits et de première qualité aux plus démunis. L’ONG internationale soutient également le développement des systèmes de santé des pays hôtes par la formation des professionnels de la santé et la rénovation d’infrastructures. Fondé en Suisse en 1978 par Don et Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships est intervenu dans 55 pays.

A bord de ses navires, une moyenne de 2 500 bénévoles par an, issus de 60 pays, contribuent à l’œuvre de Mercy Ships. Des professionnels tels que chirurgiens, dentistes, personnel infirmier, formateurs dans le domaine de la santé, cuisiniers, marins, ingénieurs et agriculteurs dédient leur temps et leurs compétences à cette cause. Avec des bureaux dans 16 pays et un Centre opérationnel pour l’Afrique basé à Dakar, au Sénégal, Mercy Ships se met au service des nations en restaurant santé et dignité.
Pour plus d’informations, rendez-vous sur www.MercyShips.org et suivez @MercyShips sur les réseaux sociaux.

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Africa Sports Unified (ASU) lance ‘ASU Insider’ – une plateforme stratégique d’adhésion pour les leaders du sport africain

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Les candidatures pour le cercle fondateur sont désormais ouvertes. (Étant donné que la page de liste d’attente est uniquement en anglais, veuillez contacter info@asunified.com si vous avez des questions.)

Africa Sports Unified (ASU), le premier et principal hub d’affaires sportives panafricain au monde, est heureux d’annoncer le lancement de ASU Insider — une nouvelle plateforme stratégique d’adhésion conçue pour renforcer les capacités des décideurs et des acteurs clés qui façonnent la croissance du sport à travers l’Afrique.

“Au cours des 18 derniers mois, nous avons échangé avec les principaux acteurs pour comprendre leurs besoins et les obstacles freinant l’industrie”, déclare Gabriel Ajala, fondateur d’Africa Sports Unified. “Le constat est clair : ce qui manque, c’est une plateforme fiable, des analyses pertinentes et des connexions significatives. ASU Insider est la solution — un outil qui fournit les ressources, le contexte et les relations nécessaires pour diriger, collaborer et se développer à travers le continent.”

Le Cercle Fondateur | ASU Insider

Dans le cadre de la phase pilote de la plateforme, ASU ouvre les candidatures pour le Cercle Fondateur ASU Insider — un groupe restreint de 10 acteurs sélectionnés qui seront les premiers utilisateurs et contribueront activement à définir l’orientation stratégique de la plateforme.

Avantages pour les membres du Cercle Fondateur:

  • Briefings mensuels sur le marché : informations exclusives sur les politiques, les investissements, les droits et les tendances de gouvernance dans le sport africain
  • Sessions en direct animées par des experts : discussions à huis clos avec des voix influentes du sport, du développement et du business
  • Accès prioritaire aux rapports, outils et données d’ASU
  • Accès consultatif et introductions stratégiques : accès privilégié à l’équipe ASU et à son réseau continental
  • Influence sur la feuille de route de recherche d’ASU : les membres fondateurs contribuent à orienter les priorités de la plateforme

Destiné à:

  • Ministères gouvernementaux et décideurs politiques
  • Détenteurs de droits (clubs, fédérations, etc.)
  • Organisations intergouvernementales et institutions financières de développement
  • Sponsors et marques
  • Investisseurs
  • Institutions de financement du développement

Candidatures ouvertes

Les candidatures pour le Cercle Fondateur sont désormais ouvertes.

Le Cercle Fondateur | ASU Insider la page d’atterrissage : http://apo-opa.co/451sZLz

Les membres fondateurs bénéficieront d’une influence précoce et d’un rôle actif dans la transformation du sport africain.

Distribué par APO Group pour Africa Sports Unified.

Pour les demandes presse :
info@asunified.com

Réseaux sociaux:
Linktree : https://apo-opa.co/46N5UgX
Vidéos : https://apo-opa.co/4nHE3Vs
Site web : https://apo-opa.co/3GPudjN 

À propos d’Africa Sports Unified :
Africa Sports Unified est le principal hub d’affaires sportives panafricain au monde. Il stimule la croissance économique et l’innovation dans l’industrie grâce à des analyses fondées sur les données, des conseils stratégiques et l’engagement communautaire.