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Call to sign up for Ex-Mine Workers Social Security Benefits Programme 

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, July 14, 2025

The Gauteng Department of Health is urging ex-mine workers to sign up for phase two of the Ex-Mine Workers Social Security Benefits Programme.

This as the department in partnership with the Medical Bureau for Occupational Diseases (MBOD) and other stakeholders, are rolling out Phase Two of the Ex-Mine Workers Social Security Benefits Programme in the Ekurhuleni district.

“This initiative aims to trace, register and screen ex-mine workers with occupational diseases, ensuring that those who qualify can access their unclaimed benefits and medical surveillance. Many ex-mine workers left the industry due to occupational lung diseases such as silicosis and tuberculosis (TB) without receiving the compensation due to them,” said the department in a statement on Sunday.

The department is calling on ex-mine workers in the Ekurhuleni district to come forward and register at the following designated venues: 
•    Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital – Training Centre Hall (Nurses Home Area), 
•    Vosloorus Bertha Gxowa Hospital – Dr. Clarence Mini Hall (formerly Kobie Muller Hall), Germiston
•    Tambo Memorial Hospital – Villa Nerina Hall, next to NHLS Lab, Boksburg 
•    Pholosong Hospital – Auditorium and Lapa, Tsakane 
Ex-mine workers can register from Monday, 21 July -Friday, 22 August 2025. The sites will be open from 8am-4pm on weekdays.

“To streamline the process, communities are urged to bring their Makhuluskop (Mineworker’s Identity card), ID documents and any paperwork received from their mining companies.”

For more information on eligibility and the registration process, ex-mine workers and their families can contact the MBOD Call Centre at 080 1000 240.

Families of deceased mineworkers may also be eligible to claim benefits. 

“Phase one of the project was successfully implemented in the West Rand district, where over 9000 individuals were reached with about 539 people completing the Benefit Medical Examination tests. 

“It is crucial for ex-mine workers and their families to understand that addressing eligibility issues is essential to ensure that deserving individuals receive the benefits they are entitled to,” the department explained. –SAnews.gov.za

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CSIR’s Dr Tenza seconded to the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has announced the secondment of Dr Kenny Tenza from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI).

Tenza has taken on the role of Acting Deputy Director-General for Technology Innovation, effective 1 July 2025. This secondment will last for 12 months.

The Minister highlighted Tenza’s qualifications, referring to him as an accomplished academic and a highly decorated scientist. 

He emphasised Tenza’s extensive knowledge of the technology innovation field and noted that he has held prominent positions in leading scientific organisations both in the country and worldwide.

In his current position as the Business Development and Commercialisation Executive at the CSIR’s Advanced Chemistry and Life Sciences Division, he oversees the commercialisation of proprietary intellectual property in the agriculture, food, chemicals, and health industries. 

Nzimande said that Tenza is making a significant contribution to the re-industrialisation of South Africa through innovations in science.

“Dr Tenza also possesses a unique blend of executive leadership skills, which includes strategic leadership, culture change management, strategy development and implementation, financial sustainability, capability development, performance, operations, and governance.”

The Minister believes that Tenza’s experience and expertise will be essential in driving the department’s efforts to reposition their technology innovation instruments and programmes. 

“I also wish to urge the staff in the department and from our entities to support Dr Tenza in his new role.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Body of suspected poacher found at Kruger National Park 

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, July 14, 2025

The body of an alleged poacher was found in the Kruger National Park, said Mpumalanga police.

“The body of an alleged poacher was found in the Kruger National Park on 12 July 2025 at about 8:30 am and it is suspected that he could have been shot during a shootout with Field Rangers the previous night, 11 July [Thursday] 2025 at around 9pm, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.

The discovery was made after three field rangers who were on patrol on Thursday night, came cross three suspected poachers. The rangers ordered the trio to stop, but the suspected poachers responded by opening fire at the rangers who shot back.

“The alleged poachers are said to have ran further into the dark, and due to poor light, the rangers abandoned their pursuit then returned to the camp.

“The next morning, the rangers returned to the scene to further conduct the search for the alleged poachers whilst patrolling the surrounding areas. It was during this time when they discovered the lifeless body of a male person with gunshot wound at the Lower Sabie region of the park, laying on the ground,” said the police.

A backpack was found next to the body of the deceased.

“The police from Skukuza as well as other role players were immediately notified, and the man was certified dead by the paramedics at the scene. Inside the backpack, two rhino horns were found. An investigation is underway meanwhile the man has not yet been identified,” said the SAPS in a statement on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the other two suspected poachers are still at large. –SAnews.gov.za

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Parliamentary committees welcome inquiry into Mkhwanazi allegations

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, July 14, 2025

The chaipersons of Parliament’s Justice and Police committees have welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement of a judicial commission of inquiry to probe allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

The provincial commissioner made several allegations about an alleged criminal syndicate that has spread into law enforcement and intelligence services as well as allegations implicating the judiciary, prosecutors, politicians and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

The Police Minister has been placed on leave of absence by the President. 

READ | Mkhwanazi allegations: What the judicial commission of inquiry will probe

Justice and Constitutional Development Committee chairperson, Xola Nqola, said: “The National Prosecuting Authority, as well as the Judiciary and Magistracy are pillars of the criminal justice system and constitutional rule of law. They are the guardians of justice and accountability, and we cannot have a question mark hanging over them, causing the public to lose confidence in our justice system.”

Police Portfolio Committee chairperson, Ian Cameron, said: “The announcement of the establishment of a commission will surely enable a process to root out corruption from the SAPS. It is important that the establishment of the commission is not merely cosmetic but facilitates greater reflection and steps to rejuvenate the entire criminal justice system.”

Last week, National Assembly Speaker, Thoko Didiza, mandated the two committees and the Intelligence Committee to consider Mkhwanazi’s allegations.

In that regard, the committees are expected to meet this week to consider the way forward and report back to Didiza. – SAnews.gov.za

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Condolences on passing of former Nigeria President Buhari

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, July 14, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his condolences to the government and nation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, following the passing of the West African nation’s former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Buhari passed away at a London clinic at the age of 82.

“As South Africa, we stand with the nation of Nigeria in your mourning. President Buhari led Nigeria as a patriot and a champion not only of the best attributes of his nation during his leadership, but of the future that awaited his great country,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President reflected on the work the two of them undertook.

“I had the privilege of working closely with President Buhari on building relations between our country and sharing numerous reciprocal visits – including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These engagements were dedicated to intensifying cooperation in areas such as arts and culture, education, agriculture, trade and investment, mining, defence, immigration and science and technology.

“President Buhari’s leadership brought our two nations closer together and as we did so, this partnership contributed to Africa’s collective growth and development. This is a legacy on which we will continue to build,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Policies Driving South Africa’s Extractive Sector Growth

Source: APO


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South Africa’s Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum resources has introduced four key policy changes aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of the country’s mining and petroleum industries. The policies, aligned with broader economic growth objectives, seek to attract new investment across the extractives sector while enhancing value addition and industrialization. As the world’s top producer of platinum group metals (PGMs), policy reforms stand to support accelerated growth across the PGM industry.

The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders, scheduled for October 1–3, 2025 in Cape Town – will feature a dedicated panel on South Africa’s PGM sector. The discussion will showcase how recent policies are creating opportunities within the country’s PGM market, exploring investment opportunities, challenges and anticipated policy-led growth.

Mineral Resources Development Bill

South Africa published its draft Mineral Resources Development Bill on May 20, 2025, for public comment. Set to replace the 2002 Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, the new law addresses key industry challenges, empowers small-scale mining and promotes local beneficiation of minerals. The law seeks to ensure revenue generated from the industry is channeled into the formal sector and contributes to GDP growth. In 2024, the mining sector generated R674 billion in export earnings and R451 billion to GDP. The public has until August 8, 2025, to comment on the bill.

Petroleum Products Bill

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources is expected to submit the Petroleum Products Act Amendment Bill (PPB) of 2024 to Cabinet for approval before the end of 2025. The bill aims to streamline licensing and appeals processes, increasing the oil and gas sector’s contribution to economic transformation, job creation and security of petroleum product supply. The new law was submitted for public comments on October 21, 2024 and aims to replace the 1977 act.

Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act

South Africa is set to complete the implementation of the new Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act by September 2025. The law creates an investor-friendly regime for oil and gas investors, promotes economic growth and expands opportunities for local companies and entrepreneurs across the petroleum value chain. The act was signed by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2024 and is expected to come into effect following the introduction of new Petroleum Regulations.

According to South Africa’s Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe, the law has not only created legislation that is investor-friendly for the oil and gas sector, but has also ensured that there is a dedicated regulatory regime for the sector given its potential for economic contribution and job creation.

The Mine Health and Safety Amendment Bill

The Mine Health and Safety Amendment Bill was tabled to parliament in late 2024 and seeks to amend the act of 1996. The bill aims to advance stakeholder adoption of modern health and safety practices, driving the country’s agenda of zero harm across the mineral industry. Key provisions include measures to streamline administrative processes, strengthen managerial responsibility and accountability while enhancing mine safety training and adoption.

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

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Seychelles: Ambassador Conrad Mederic presents his letter of credence to President Mahama of Ghana

Source: APO


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On 10 July 2025, Ambassador Conrad Mederic presented his Letters of Credence to the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Mr John Dramani Mahama, to become the new non-resident High-Commissioner of the Republic of Seychelles to the Republic of Ghana.

Ambassador Mederic also had the opportunity to have a short meeting with President Mahama, focusing on potential areas to strengthen cooperation between the two countries which included education, culture, tourism, Blue Economy, illegal activities in maritime spaces, climate change and its impact on the two countries.

Ambassador Mederic recognised the strong historical and bilateral ties between Seychelles and Ghana, having established diplomatic relations since October 1988 and reassured the President of the commitment of Seychelles to bring the two nations closer through collaboration on mutually beneficial areas.

To recall, President Wavel Ramkalawan visited Ghana in November 2024 on the occasion of the 100th Anniversary celebrations of King Prempeh I’s Return from exile in Seychelles. During this visit, four Memoranda of Understanding were signed and now, both parties look forward towards the conclusion of other Agreements, particularly one in the health sector.

Ambassador Mederic was accompanied by Mr Kwame Acquah, Honorary Consul of Seychelles in Accra.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles.

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Seychelles represented at the 47th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union

Source: APO


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Ambassador Selby Pillay represented Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Republic of Seychelles, at the 47th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea from 10th to 11th July 2025.

The 47th Ordinary Session was conducted under the theme: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through reparations”. It adopted the African Union Commission budget for 2026, assessed the implementation of the Agenda 2063, considered the roadmap on the theme of the year 2026, and endorsed decisions on critical issues affecting the African Continent.

During the discussions on the roadmap of the theme for the year 2026: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063”, Ambassador Pillay recognised the inseparable linkage between water and other factors such as health, agriculture, and climate resilience. He further underscored that “Seychelles, as a Small Island Developing State, will always be a strong advocate for environment sustainability and climate change, due to its vulnerabilities mainly from the devasting effects of climate change”.

The Ordinary Session further witnessed the election of Professor Gaspard Banyankimbona from Burundi as the new African Union Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (ESTI) and Mrs Francisca Tatchouop Belobe from Equatorial Guinea as the new Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM). This completes the election and appointment process of the Senior Leadership of the African Union Commission, a process which started in February 2025.

Ambassador Pillay was accompanied by Mrs Patricia Ilunga, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Seychelles in Addis Ababa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles.

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Africa GreenCo Advances Zambian Solar Projects as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Source: APO


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Ana Hajduka, Founder and CEO of green energy supplier Africa GreenCo, will participate as a speaker at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 conference, taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. During the event, Hajduka is expected to share insights into the company’s groundbreaking work in advancing renewable energy trading and power market integration, as Africa GreenCo advances a series of projects across southern Africa.

Delivering tailored energy solutions, Africa GreenCo supports businesses, utilities and renewable energy developers in Africa by facilitating renewable energy trade and distribution. Recent developments reflect this, while supporting the expansion of the continent’s renewable energy sector. Hajduka will share insights into these projects during AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, while engaging with renewable energy developers and financiers active across the continent.

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.

To date, Africa GreenCo has facilitated the trade of over 1 TWh of electricity and continues to champion the role of market-based solutions in achieving energy security and decarbonization in Africa. Africa GreenCo signed a head of terms for a long-term power purchase agreement with pan-African energy group AXIAN Energy to develop two grid-connected solar PV projects in Zambia. Once operational, the projects will add 25 MW of renewable energy to Zambia’s national grid, helping alleviate electricity shortages, improve reliability for businesses and support the country’s long-term industrial growth. The projects will be developed with support from financial services provider Standard Bank.

Meanwhile, the company’s subsidiary GreenCo Power Services will purchase electricity from Zambia’s 32 MW Ilute Solar Project under a recently signed a power purchase agreement, enabling cross-border trade via the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP). This innovative arrangement eliminates the need for sovereign guarantees, positioning GreenCo as a key player in advancing regional integration and private-sector investment in Africa.

In November 2024, GreenGo Finance Solutions – Africa GreenCo’s Zambian subsidiary – signed a $55.5 million facilities agreement with financial institution Stanbic Bank Zambia and Standard Bank to support emergency electricity imports in Zambia. The facility enables the prepayment of over 130 MW of cross-border power supply, easing liquidity constraints for local offtakers and bolstering energy security in the country. The agreement follows Africa GreenCo’s instrumental role in facilitating a 125 MW power import deal between Zambia’s state utility ZESCO, mining major First Quantum Minerals (FQM) and regional suppliers. Jointly financed by Africa GreenCo and FQM, the arrangement delivers 85 MW to Zambia’s national grid and allocated 40 MW to FQM’s operations.

In October 2024, GreenCo Power Services achieved a significant regulatory milestone with the award of a domestic trading and import/export licenses from South Africa’s National Energy Regulator. The licenses enable Africa GreenCo to operate within South Africa’s competitive electricity market and to facilitate cross-border transactions through the SAPP – creating a critical channel for dispatching surplus clean power across the region.

“Africa GreenCo’s model reflects the future of energy in Africa – private-led, regionally interconnected and powered by clean energy. Ana Hadjuka’s participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will offer vital insights into how blended finance, cross-border trade and regulatory innovation can converge to solve Africa’s most pressing power challenges,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Morocco: His Majesty the King Congratulates Montenegro President on National Day

Source: APO


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His Majesty King Mohammed VI sent a message of congratulations to President of Montenegro Jakov Milatović, on the occasion of his country’s national day.

In this message, the Sovereign expresses His warmest congratulations along with His best wishes of good health and happiness to President Milatović, and of further progress and prosperity to the Montenegrin people.

“I should like to say how much I value the relations based on friendship and cooperation between our countries. I am sure we share a strong desire to strengthen our ties and expand our cooperation to various sectors, for the mutual benefit of our peoples,” HM the King writes.

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