MIL Africa Engine

March 9, 2026

Qatar Attaches Importance to Children Affected by Armed Conflicts Through Various Forms of Support

Source: Government of Qatar

Geneva, March 09, 2026

The State of Qatar has underscored that it gives importance to children affected by armed conflicts by providing various kinds of support, recalling that Doha hosted several children who were separated from their parents due to war and were fully taken care of, alongside helping reunite several conflict-stricken children with their families.

It clarified that these efforts will continue through its internationally forged programs and partnerships to ensure access to quality education for millions of children who have been deprived of this right due to conflicts.

This came in the State of Qatar’s statement delivered by Abdullah Ahmed Al Hardan, Third Secretary in the Department of International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during his participation in the annual debate on the Rights of the Child within the 61st session of the Human Rights Council (HRC61) in Geneva.

Al Hardan underscored that the State of Qatar places paramount importance on enhancing and protecting the rights of children in both peace and war alike, noting its keenness, within the framework of its international partnerships, to support efforts aimed at safeguarding children affected by armed conflicts.

He further highlighted that Doha hosts the Analysis and Outreach Hub of the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict.

Al Hardan pointed to the resolution presented by the State of Qatar and the Republic of Costa Rica and adopted by the Human Rights Council at its 60th session on promoting and protecting the human rights of women and children in armed conflict and post-conflict: ensuring justice, remedies, and redress for victims.

He explained that the resolution outlines numerous proposals aimed at strengthening the international legal obligations of parties to conflict to protect the human rights of children affected by armed conflicts, particularly with regard to providing children’s essential needs such as education and health, preventing their involvement in conflicts, and enhancing accountability for violations committed against them.

March 9, 2026

TECNO et Tonino Lamborghini annoncent une nouvelle collaboration internationale

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

TECNO (www.TECNO-Mobile.com), marque technologique innovante portée par l’IA, a annoncé aujourd’hui au Mobile World Congress (MWC) un nouveau partenariat avec Tonino Lamborghini, marque italienne d’art de vivre reconnue pour son héritage, son audace et son esprit sans compromis. Cette collaboration repose sur une vision commune de l’innovation et d’un lifestyle contemporain affirmé.

Plus qu’une simple alliance, ce partenariat incarne un véritable état d’esprit où design, technologie et attitude se rencontrent. L’esthétique italienne s’allie à l’innovation technologique avancée pour enrichir le quotidien avec caractère, performance et personnalité.

Cette collaboration représente une évolution naturelle pour les deux marques. À travers ce partenariat, TECNO renforce son positionnement de leader dans l’alliance entre technologie de pointe et design audacieux et élégant, à travers une démarche qui reflète le caractère, la fiabilité et la haute performance utilisateur. De son côté, Tonino Lamborghini bénéficie d’une opportunité d’élargir sa présence à de nouvelles catégories, tout en restant fidèle à ses valeurs fondamentales de qualité, d’identité et de raffinement.

Les produits développés dans le cadre de cette collaboration intégreront des éléments de design exclusifs inspirés du style emblématique de Tonino Lamborghini, associés aux solutions technologiques de pointe de TECNO. Le résultat donne naissance à une offre à la fois raffinée et fonctionnelle, pensée pour un public international attaché aussi bien à l’esthétique qu’à l’expérience utilisateur.

« Ce partenariat repose sur une même quête d’excellence et un engagement fort envers nos missions respectives. TECNO façonne l’expérience numérique de centaines de millions d’utilisateurs dans le monde, et cette collaboration marque une nouvelle étape dans notre ambition de redéfinir la performance et l’esthétique », a déclaré Jack Guo, General Manager de TECNO.

« Cette collaboration unit deux univers complémentaires : notre langage de design et le savoir-faire technologique de TECNO. Ensemble, nous avons créé un projet qui interprète avec cohérence et vision le lifestyle contemporain », a commenté le Dr Tonino Lamborghini, fondateur de Tonino Lamborghini S.p.A.

La première gamme TECNO x Tonino Lamborghini a été officiellement dévoilée au MWC 2026 à Barcelone, ouvrant un nouveau chapitre dans les expériences technologiques et gaming. La collaboration couvrira les appareils gaming, smartphones, ordinateurs portables, écouteurs et tablettes, pour créer un écosystème intelligent complet marqué par l’empreinte iconique Tonino Lamborghini.

Tonino Lamborghini TECNO TAURUS (MEGA MINI G1 Pro)

Le Tonino Lamborghini TECNO TAURUS (MEGA MINI G1 Pro) représente la deuxième génération des mini PC gaming de TECNO, après le succès du MEGA Mini G1, premier et plus petit PC gaming au monde doté d’un système de refroidissement liquide.

Ce nouveau modèle repousse les limites des systèmes compacts en offrant aux créatifs et aux passionnés de gaming toute la puissance des applications les plus exigeantes.

Son châssis intégralement en métal, sublimé par un éclairage RGB dynamique, reflète l’identité visuelle distinctive de Tonino Lamborghini. Il est équipé d’un processeur Intel® Core™ i9-13900HK à 14 cœurs et 20 threads, atteignant une fréquence jusqu’à 5,4 GHz.

La carte graphique NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5060 8GB GDDR7 offre une puissance graphique totale de 145W. Basée sur l’architecture NVIDIA Blackwell, elle propose un réalisme avancé grâce au path tracing, des visuels de qualité cinématographique, une réactivité optimale et 614 AI TOPS.

Un écran intégré permet de suivre en temps réel les performances du CPU et du GPU. Même en environnement intensif, le système reste silencieux et parfaitement refroidi grâce à une plaque de refroidissement liquide en cuivre pur d’environ 10 000 mm² et un triple système de ventilation.

La connectivité comprend 15 ports, le WiFi 6E et le Bluetooth 5.4. L’alimentation est assurée par un adaptateur externe GaN de 330W.

Cet appareil représente la première ligne de produits issue de la collaboration entre TECNO et Tonino Lamborghini, ainsi que la prochaine étape d’une technologie haute performance, pensée pour s’intégrer à un style de vie moderne et exigeant.

TECNO POVA Metal Tonino Lamborghini Limited Edition

Le TECNO POVA Metal Tonino Lamborghini Limited Edition est le tout premier smartphone 5G au monde doté d’un châssis monobloc entièrement en métal. Il reprend les éléments les plus emblématiques de la série POVA et de l’univers Tonino Lamborghini, à travers des courbes continues et des bordures ultra-fines de 0,99 mm.

À l’arrière, le Rear Dot Matrix intègre une matrice LED indépendante de 241 pixels, mettant en avant les codes de design emblématiques de Tonino Lamborghini. Celle-ci peut être personnalisée pour afficher des alertes d’appels, des notifications ainsi que d’autres visuels dynamiques.

L’ensemble est complété par une bande lumineuse pulsée, qui apporte une touche supplémentaire de mouvement et d’énergie au design global. Pour parfaire cette conception remarquable, l’appareil embarque également un processeur Snapdragon®, renforçant à la fois ses performances et son caractère distinctif.

Tonino Lamborghini TECNO AIoT Ecosystem

TECNO a également présenté un concept d’écosystème AIoT complet, incluant ordinateurs portables, tablettes et objets connectés.

Inspirés par l’esthétique iconique Tonino Lamborghini, ces produits adoptent un design unifié caractérisé par des lignes affirmées et une silhouette moderne. Légers et performants, ils accompagnent les utilisateurs dans leur quotidien professionnel, créatif et personnel, tout en affirmant leur singularité.

Le Mobile World Congress 2026 se tient du 2 au 5 mars à Barcelone, à Fira Gran Via. Les visiteurs peuvent découvrir la collaboration sur le stand TECNO, Hall 7, Stand 7A40.

Distribué par APO Group pour TECNO Mobile.

Pour toute demande média :
pr.tecno@tecno-mobile.com

À propos de TECNO :
Marque technologique innovante présente dans plus de 70 marchés à travers le monde, TECNO s’est donné pour mission de transformer l’expérience numérique dans les marchés émergents. La marque œuvre en permanence à l’intégration harmonieuse d’un design contemporain et esthétique avec les technologies les plus récentes et l’intelligence artificielle.

TECNO propose une large gamme de produits comprenant des smartphones, des objets connectés, des ordinateurs portables et tablettes, des équipements gaming intelligents, le système d’exploitation HiOS ainsi que des solutions pour la maison connectée.

Guidée par sa signature « Stop At Nothing », TECNO s’engage à démocratiser l’accès aux technologies les plus avancées et aux expériences enrichies par l’IA, afin d’accompagner les esprits ambitieux dans la réalisation de leur plein potentiel.

Pour plus d’informations :
www.TECNO-Mobile.com

À propos du Groupe Tonino Lamborghini :
Depuis 1981, la marque Tonino Lamborghini se distingue par son design innovant et son positionnement dans le luxe exclusif. Son univers s’étend à de nombreux secteurs, notamment l’horlogerie, la lunetterie, les accessoires de mode, l’hôtellerie, l’immobilier, le lifestyle, les boissons premium et les voiturettes de golf électriques.

La marque incarne l’élégance italienne et un raffinement affirmé, tout en cultivant une identité forte et reconnaissable.

Pour plus d’informations :
www.Lamborghini.it

Media files

March 9, 2026

President Ramaphosa extends period of Madlanga Commission

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has amended the period in which the Judicial Commission of Inquiry Commission into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System arising from specific allegations by Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on 6 July 2025, must complete its work and submit its final report.

Accordingly, the Commission shall submit a second interim report by 29 May 2026 and a final report on the completion of the inquiry, on 31 August 2026.

This extension was granted at the request of the Commission due to the number of persons who must still appear.

The President appointed the Judicial Commission Inquiry in terms of section 84(2)(f) of the Constitution on 21 July 2025.

Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga was appointed Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry and Advocates Sesi Baloyi SC and Sandile Khumalo SC were appointed as members of the Commission.

The Commission submitted its first interim report to the President on 17 December 2025 and resumed its activities in January of this year.

In its interim report, the Commission referred a number of matters for immediate criminal investigation and urgent decisions on prosecution, as well as recommendations on the employment status and recommended suspension of individuals.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President- media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

March 9, 2026

Media remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the occasion of the State Visit to the Federative Republic of Brazil, Brasilia

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency, President Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva,
Ambassadors,
Ministers,
Distinguished Members of our Delegations
Ladies and gentlemen of the Media

I wish to thank you, President Lula, for the warm welcome extended to me and my delegation and for the constructive manner in which our discussions have been conducted.

We wish to pay our respects to the victims of the recent floods and landslides in the state of Minas Gerais and to convey to the families of those who lost their lives our deepest condolences.

Our meeting takes place in the year that South Africa celebrates the 30th anniversary of the adoption of our democratic Constitution.

On this occasion, we reflect on the progress our democratic nation has made and the sacrifices that made our freedom possible.

We remain deeply grateful for the solidarity of the people of Brazil during our struggle for freedom. This support contributed meaningfully to the achievements we celebrate today.

Our visit takes place against the backdrop of renewed conflict in the Middle East. We reiterate our call for the peaceful resolution of all disputes in line with the United Nations Charter. We condemn the loss of civilian life and the destruction of vital infrastructure.

We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

Your leadership has strengthened the foundations of our strategic partnership. We value your guidance on how our cooperation can be deepened and made more impactful.

South Africa and Brazil share a commitment to equality, economic growth and the eradication of poverty. These shared values provide a strong basis for building practical, mutually beneficial programmes that advance our respective national development priorities.

I am joined by several Ministers and officials. Working with their Brazilian counterparts, this delegation is well positioned to expand cooperation across key areas of mutual interest.

Our interactions with the Brazilian government and the forthcoming Business Forum are important steps in strengthening and expanding our strategic partnership.

The South Africa–Brazil Joint Commission is a central platform for this work and we look forward to hosting its eighth session later this year.

We also welcome progress in several sectors, including the conclusion of the Memorandum of Intent on Agriculture and the Memorandum of Understanding on Basic Education.

Deepening our economic cooperation is imperative.

South Africa remains committed to strengthening cooperation in agriculture, agro‑processing and value‑added exports.

Enhancing reciprocal market access, including through the MERCOSUR–SACU Preferential Trade Agreement, will be vital. Our business delegation stands ready to pursue new commercial opportunities.

South Africa serves as a strategic entry point for Brazil into the African continent, just as Brazil provides a gateway for South Africa into Latin America and the Caribbean. This visit strengthens these linkages and supports broader regional engagement.

As we conclude our engagements, I reaffirm South Africa’s commitment to advancing our Strategic Partnership.

The clarity and warmth of our discussions give me confidence that the momentum generated during this visit will yield concrete outcomes for both our nations and our respective regions.

President Lula, thank you once again for your generous hospitality and the spirit of partnership that continues to define our relationship.

We look forward to welcoming you to South Africa soon.

I thank you.
Obrigado.

March 9, 2026

International Women’s Day: African Union Celebrates Women of the Union with Pledge to Strengthen Inclusion and Dignity for All

Source: APO

The African Union Commission (AUC), through its Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (WGYD), commemorated the International Women’s Day 2026, under the theme “Honouring Women of the African Union: Voices, Work and Community,” recognising the diverse contributions of women across all levels of the institution. The celebration, held at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, highlighted the vital roles women play in sustaining the Union’s work, from leadership and policy development to administration, security, cleaning and other essential services.

Speaking as “a son raised by a strong African woman,” the AUC Chairperson, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, acknowledged women across all roles, from Commissioners and Policy Officers to Drivers, Cleaners, and Interns, emphasizing that their contributions, whether visible or behind the scenes, shape the African Union’s mission.

“Every woman within this Institution, regardless of her grade or role, must feel valued, supported, and protected. Your commitment, talent, and leadership are indispensable to our collective mission. Your well-being, professional growth, and aspirations matter greatly to this Institution,” emphasized the AUC Chairperson.

During the interactive dialogue segment to reflect on the AU’s theme for Women’s Day, participants discussed key institutional priorities, including the review of maternity and parental leave policies, the forthcoming opening of an African Union daycare center to better support working families, and ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to health services for all staff regardless of contract status. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission also reaffirmed the institution’s zero-tolerance policy toward harassment and discrimination on women, underscoring the Commission’s commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace for all employees.

The AUC Chairperson concluded by calling for renewed commitment to building a Commission where every woman can thrive and where the next generation of African women leaders can serve with confidence and pride.

Addressing the staff, the AUC Deputy Chairperson, H.E. Ambassador Selma Haddadi, paid tribute to the founding mothers of the African Union, including Fatia Bettahar, Phoebe Asiyo, Fathia Nkrumah, Albertina Sisulu, and others, on whose shoulders women still stand today. She underlined that the AU was the first among its peers to institutionalize equal representation for women, with women currently representing 37% of the workforce, including 38% of senior leadership positions.

Ambassador Haddadi emphasized the importance of recognizing women at every level of the institution, from young professionals to gardeners, translators, security officers, and cleaners, describing their work as “essential and indispensable” to the Union’s functioning. Drawing on the African philosophy of Ubuntu, Deputy Chairperson Selma Haddadi called for intergenerational and cross-rank solidarity among women and stressed the importance of male allyship in advancing gender equality.

“The solidarity we want for women across this continent must begin inside the walls of our institution. We cannot credibly champion women’s rights and justice across fifty-five member states if we do not first practice justice, dignity and care for one another within these walls. This endeavour is incomplete unless joined and genuinely supported by our brothers, at all levels,” concluded the AUC Deputy Chairperson.

The event served as both a celebration and a renewed call to action, affirming the African Union’s commitment to building a Commission where every woman can thrive, and where the next generation of African women leaders can serve with confidence and pride.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

March 9, 2026

Harnessing data and frontier technologies for Africa’s economic transformation: forthcoming economic report calls for innovation-driven growth to accelerate structural transformation

Source: APO

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) will soon release its flagship Economic Report on Africa 2026 (ERA 2026) titled “Growth through Innovation: Harnessing Data and Frontier Technologies for Africa’s Economic Transformation.” The report underscores that while Africa has achieved steady economic growth in recent years, much of this progress has been driven by factor accumulation, capital and labour, rather than sustained productivity gains. As a result, the continent’s structural transformation has been slow, with limited reallocation of labour and investment into higher-productivity sectors such as manufacturing and modern services.

Reflecting on the report, ECA Executive Secretary Claver Gatete says that the strategic adoption of data and frontier technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, renewable energy solutions and advanced robotics, offers a vital opportunity for African economies to leapfrog traditional development pathways.

“When effectively governed and integrated, these technologies can boost productivity, stimulate industrial upgrading, expand job creation and promote inclusive, sustainable growth consistent with the goals of Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.”

The report projects that Africa’s growth performance will strengthen in 2026, reaching 4.3 per cent, supported by increased infrastructure investment, stabilising commodity prices, and growing intra-African trade. Yet, persistent challenges, such as high debt service burdens, limited fiscal space and widening inequalities, continue to constrain progress.

“This work emphasises that harnessing frontier technologies is now essential to closing the continent’s productivity gap, strengthening resilience to climate and demographic pressures, and fostering inclusive prosperity,” says Mr. Gatete.

The authors highlight that the economic impact of frontier technologies depends on complementary policies that nurture skills, industrial capacity, research and development, and access to finance. These factors determine whether technological advances can be absorbed, adapted, and scaled across sectors. Skills development emerges as a decisive lever for success, alongside innovation-driven financing tools such as innovation bonds, blended finance facilities, and regional credit lines to channel resources into high-productivity sectors.

The report also underscores that data—described as the new oil of the digital economy—represents a powerful economic asset capable of generating revenue, fostering entrepreneurship, improving governance and powering frontier technologies. By strengthening the entire data value chain—from generation and storage to processing and use—African countries can unlock new industries, strengthen digital sovereignty, and position themselves competitively within the rapidly expanding global frontier technology market, projected to reach USD 16.4 trillion by 2033.

ERA 2026 identifies manufacturing as the anchor of Africa’s structural transformation, driven by technology-enabled production clusters, smart logistics systems and digital integration via the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Similarly, frontier applications in agriculture, transport, energy, and services are already transforming livelihoods—demonstrating how frontier technologies can strengthen productivity, catalyze green industrialization, and advance the clean energy transition.

However, the report also warns of critical risks, including labour displacement, gender and digital divides, cybersecurity threats and data dependency. It calls for stronger governance frameworks to ensure that the benefits of technology and innovation are equitably shared while safeguarding national interests.

To maximize the transformative potential of data and frontier technologies, ERA 2026 recommends that African countries strengthen governance and institutional capacity; invest in research, development and innovation ecosystems; develop dynamic policy roadmaps; promote human capital development, particularly for youth and women; and deepen public–private partnerships and regional cooperation. Closing infrastructure gaps—especially in energy, broadband, data centres, and transport—alongside reforming the international financing environment to de-risk investment in innovation, remains crucial.

With its vast critical mineral reserves, abundant renewable resources and youthful demographics, Africa possesses the foundations to become a key player in the global technology revolution. The ERA 2026 finds that by embracing innovation, strengthening productive capacities, and embedding frontier technologies within regional value chains, the continent can achieve resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economic transformation.

The Economic Report on Africa 2026 will be officially launched at the ECA Conference of Ministers in March 2026 in Tangier, Morocco and will be accompanied by a high-level policy dialogue with African ministers, policymakers, private sector leaders and development partners. The report provides a data-driven framework for African countries to unlock the productivity dividends of technology and innovation and realize the aspirations of The Africa We Want.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

March 9, 2026

Le Cameroun et la Banque Africaine de Développement adoptent un plan d’accélération et de redressement de la performance du portefeuille pays

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Au terme de la 55^e revue du portefeuille organisée du 23 au 26 février 2026 à Kribi, dans la région du Sud, le gouvernement de la République du Cameroun et le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) ont validé un plan d’action conjoint pour améliorer la performance du portefeuille des projets financés par l’institution dans ce pays d’Afrique centrale. Cette revue, marquée par une volonté de rupture, veut insuffler un changement de rythme et de méthode dans l’exécution des opérations.

Le plan approuvé met l’accent sur le renforcement de la redevabilité à travers l’instauration de contrats de performance entre les coordonnateurs des projets, les ministères sectoriels et le ministère de l’Économie, de la Planification et de l’Aménagement du territoire (MINEPAT). Il prévoit également la tenue de revues sectorielles mensuelles orientées vers des solutions concrètes, l’anticipation des blocages dans les acquisitions, les décaissements, un suivi rigoureux des projets afin d’accélérer leur mise en œuvre et d’optimiser leur impact et le renforcement des capacités des unités de gestion des projets sur les règles et procédures de la Banque notamment en matière de sauvegarde environnementale et sociale et de gestion financière.

Par ailleurs, les participants à la Revue ont identifié des actions prioritaires. Ils ont ainsi recommandé le traitement prioritaire des projets signés mais n’ayant pas reçu un décaissement depuis plus de 15 mois ; le suivi rigoureux des opérations en alerte de clôture ; la prise de décisions rapides en matière d’extension ou d’annulation partielle des financements et le respect strict de la production des rapports d’achèvement afin de garantir une amélioration durable et mesurable de la performance du portefeuille.

A l’ouverture des travaux, le préfet du département de l’Océan dans la région du Sud, Bouba Haman, représentant le ministre de l’Économie, de la Planification et de l’Aménagement du territoire, gouverneur de la Banque pour le Cameroun, a salué la tenue de cet exercice stratégique qu’il a souhaité plus régulier et a rappelé l’importance d’une exécution diligente des projets pour répondre aux attentes des populations. « Ces travaux visent un objectif politique et social majeur : améliorer le taux d’absorption des financements. Chaque projet qui prend du retard est un service public dont les populations sont privées. Nous avons le devoir de gérer ces ressources avec la plus grande transparence et une rigueur budgétaire sans faille » a-t-il signifié.

Le directeur général du Groupe de la Banque pour l’Afrique centrale, Léandre Bassolé, a, pour sa part, appelé à un changement profond d’approche : « nous sommes ici pour regarder la réalité en face, sans complaisance, mais aussi sans esprit de reproche, avec un seul objectif : améliorer durablement la performance de nos projets et programmes », a-t-il déclaré.

Il a poursuivi : « changer de paradigme signifie passer d’une logique de procédures à une culture de résultats ; d’une gestion fragmentée à une responsabilité clairement assumée ; et d’un suivi ponctuel à un pilotage rigoureux et continue de la performance. »

Moment clé du dialogue stratégique entre le Cameroun et la Banque, cette 55ᵉ revue du portefeuille marque le point de départ d’un processus renforcé de pilotage de la performance. Les deux parties ont réaffirmé leur engagement à faire du portefeuille un levier efficace de transformation économique et d’amélioration tangible des conditions de vie des populations camerounaises.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Frédérique Pascale Essama Messanga
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
Banque africaine de développement
media@afdb.org

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est la principale institution du financement du développement en Afrique. Il comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds spécial du Nigeria (FSN). Représentée dans 41 pays africains, avec un bureau extérieur au Japon, la Banque contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 Etats membres régionaux. Pour plus d’informations: www.AfDB.org.

March 9, 2026

Les Chefs d’État et de gouvernement de la Communauté Est-Africaine se sont réunis à Arusha en Tanzanie pour le 25ᵉ Sommet ordinaire

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Ce samedi 7 mars 2026, à Arusha (siège de la Communauté Est-Africaine) en République-Unie de Tanzanie, les Chefs d’État et de gouvernement de la Communauté Est-Africaine (EAC) se sont réunis pour le 25ᵉ Sommet ordinaire de cette organisation, sous le thème :
« Approfondir l’intégration pour améliorer les conditions de vie des citoyens de l’EAC ».

Après une rencontre à huis clos des Chefs d’État et de gouvernement de l’EAC, le Président kényan, Son Excellence William Ruto, qui était jusqu’alors Président en exercice de l’EAC, a salué dans son discours, la bonne collaboration avec les autres Chefs d’État des pays membres au cours de son mandat à la tête de la communauté. Il a souligné que des avancées significatives ont été enregistrées, notamment dans la facilitation de la circulation des personnes et des marchandises, le renforcement du processus de création d’un marché commun ainsi que les progrès vers l’instauration d’une monnaie unique.
Il a également insisté sur la nécessité de renforcer la paix et la sécurité dans la région, précisant que la situation sécuritaire dans l’est de la RDC continuerait d’être suivie de près.

Après la cérémonie de passation de témoin entre le Président sortant de l’EAC, Son Excellence William Ruto, et le Président entrant, Son Excellence Yoweri Kaguta Museveni de la République d’Ouganda, plusieurs allocutions ont été prononcées.

Dans son discours, le Président ougandais et nouveau Président en exercice de l’EAC, Son Excellence Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, a évoqué les mesures visant à faciliter la libre circulation des biens et des personnes dans la région, notamment à travers la simplification des procédures aux frontières entre les pays membres de l’EAC.

Le Sommet des Chefs d’État et de gouvernement de l’EAC, en tant qu’organe suprême de prise de décisions de la communauté, a réaffirmé l’engagement des États membres à faire progresser l’intégration régionale et le développement durable. Les dirigeants ont insisté sur plusieurs questions clés susceptibles de façonner l’avenir du bloc régional, notamment les progrès accomplis dans la mise en œuvre des programmes régionaux.

Des rapports institutionnels ainsi que des initiatives stratégiques visant à approfondir l’intégration et à améliorer les conditions de vie des citoyens est-africains ont également été examinés. À cette occasion, le sommet a procédé au lancement officiel de la caution douanière régionale de l’EAC. Il s’agit d’une garantie douanière unique qui remplace l’obligation actuelle de fournir plusieurs cautions nationales le long des corridors de transit.
Grâce à ce nouveau dispositif, les opérateurs commerciaux et les transitaires pourront désormais utiliser une seule caution reconnue dans tous les États partenaires de l’EAC, au lieu de devoir obtenir des garanties distinctes dans chaque pays de transit.

Cet accord relie les administrations douanières, les assureurs et les institutions financières dans un cadre régional unifié, réduisant ainsi les coûts de conformité et les délais aux frontières, tout en protégeant les recettes publiques et en facilitant une circulation plus rapide et plus sûre des marchandises au sein de la Communauté.

Le Président en exercice de l’EAC a également appelé à un engagement accru de la jeunesse afin de renforcer l’unité, la paix, la sécurité et la coopération dans la région, dans le but de promouvoir le développement socio-économique et le bien-être des populations.

Signalons qu’au cours de ce 25ᵉ Sommet ordinaire des Chefs d’État et de gouvernement de la Communauté Est-Africaine, le nouveau Secrétaire général, Monsieur Patrick Stephen Bundi, ainsi que d’autres responsables, dont des juges de la Cour de justice de l’EAC, ont prêté serment devant les Chefs d’État et de gouvernement, s’engageant à exercer leurs fonctions conformément aux lois et règlements de la Communauté.

Signalons en outre que parmi les huit Chefs d’État attendus à ce Sommet figuraient notamment le Président de la République du Burundi et Président en exercice de l’Union Africaine, Son Excellence Evariste Ndayishimiye, la Présidente de la République-Unie de Tanzanie, Son Excellence Samia Suluhu Hassan, le Président de la République d’Ouganda, Son Excellence Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, le Président de la République fédérale de Somalie, Son Excellence Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, ainsi que le Président de la République du Kenya, Son Excellence William Ruto. D’autres pays étaient représentés par des envoyés spéciaux et des délégations officielles.

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République du Burundi.

March 9, 2026

Camarões e Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento adotam um plano para acelerar e recuperar o desempenho da carteira do país

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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No final da 55.ª revisão da carteira, organizada de 23 a 26 de fevereiro de 2026 em Kribi, na região Sul, o governo da República dos Camarões e o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) validaram um plano de ação conjunto para melhorar o desempenho da carteira de projetos financiados pela instituição neste país da África Central. Esta revisão, marcada por uma vontade de rotura, pretende introduzir uma mudança de ritmo e de método na execução das operações.

O plano aprovado enfatiza o reforço da responsabilização através da introdução de contratos de desempenho entre os coordenadores dos projetos, os ministérios setoriais e o Ministério da Economia, Planeamento e Ordenamento do Território (MINEPAT). Prevê igualmente a realização de revisões setoriais mensais orientadas para soluções concretas, a antecipação de bloqueios nas aquisições, os desembolsos, um acompanhamento rigoroso dos projetos a fim de acelerar a sua implementação e otimizar o seu impacto, e o reforço das capacidades das unidades de gestão de projetos sobre as regras e procedimentos do Banco, nomeadamente em matéria de salvaguarda ambiental e social e de gestão financeira.

Além disso, os participantes na revisão identificaram ações prioritárias. Assim, recomendaram o tratamento prioritário dos projetos assinados, mas que não receberam qualquer desembolso há mais de 15 meses; o acompanhamento rigoroso das operações em perigo de encerramento; a tomada de decisões rápidas em matéria de prorrogação ou cancelamento parcial dos financiamentos e o respeito rigoroso da produção de relatórios de conclusão, para garantir uma melhoria sustentável e mensurável do desempenho da carteira.

Na abertura dos trabalhos, o prefeito do departamento do Oceano, na região Sul, Bouba Haman, em representação do ministro da Economia, Planeamento e Ordenamento do Território, governador do Banco para o Camarões, saudou a realização deste exercício estratégico, que desejou que fosse mais regular, e recordou a importância de uma execução diligente dos projetos para responder às expectativas das populações.

“Estes trabalhos visam um objetivo político e social importante: melhorar a taxa de absorção dos financiamentos. Cada projeto que sofre atrasos é um serviço público de que as populações são privadas. Temos o dever de gerir estes recursos com a maior transparência e um rigor orçamental infalível”, afirmou.

O diretor-geral do Grupo Banco para a África Central, Léandre Bassolé, apelou, por seu lado, a uma mudança profunda de abordagem: “Estamos aqui para encarar a realidade, sem complacência, mas também sem espírito de reprovação, com um único objetivo: melhorar de forma sustentável o desempenho dos nossos projetos e programas”, afirmou.

“Mudar de paradigma significa passar de uma lógica de procedimentos para uma cultura de resultados; de uma gestão fragmentada para uma responsabilização claramente assumida; e de um acompanhamento pontual para uma gestão rigorosa e contínua do desempenho”, acrescentou.

Momento-chave do diá. estratégico entre os Camarões e o Banco, esta 55.ª revisão da carteira marca o ponto de partida de um processo reforçado de gestão do desempenho. Ambas as partes reafirmaram o seu compromisso em tornar a carteira uma alavanca eficaz para a transformação económica e a melhoria tangível das condições de vida das populações camaronenses.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacto para os media:
Frédérique Pascale Essama Messanga
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas
media@afdb.org

Sobre o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros. Mais informações em www.AfDB.org/pt

March 9, 2026

Gulf attention is turning inward: why the Iran war could destabilise the Horn of Africa

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Brendon J. Cannon, Associate Professor, Khalifa University

Gulf states have become increasingly prominent in the squabbles, civil wars and inter-country tensions in the Horn of Africa over the past decade. The countries in this region include Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somaliland, Somalia and Djibouti.

As a result, the US-Israel war on Iran matters for the Horn, where Gulf money, Gulf diplomacy and Gulf defence equipment have become part of the operating environment of conflict and rivalry.

For over a decade, I have researched the interactions of sub-Saharan Africa with Arab Gulf states, as well as Turkey, Japan, China and others. In my view, Gulf states may scale back their engagement in the Horn as the security situation in the Middle Eastern region deteriorates.

This could potentially reshape conflicts, alignments and diplomacy across the Horn of Africa – if the war drags on.

Gulf states like the United Arab Emirates and Qatar – important partners for Ethiopia, Sudan and Somalia – will likely begin focusing inward on their own security. The strategic importance of Horn of Africa states for Saudi Arabia or the UAE will diminish.

In practical terms, this could mean a drop in high-level visits, a reduction in arms flows and a weakening of political loyalty as Horn actors adjust.

For the Horn, this could lead to two outcomes. One, an escalation in conflict, with states and armed groups seeking to settle scores while external patrons are distracted. Or second, a temporary cooling-off period as actors reassess the implications of reduced Gulf funding, arms and mediation.

Either way, the Horn is unlikely to grow calmer. Instead, longstanding grievances, between Ethiopia and Eritrea for instance, may become more pronounced.

Sudan’s war and Gulf backing

For Sudan, the implications of the ongoing conflict in the Gulf could be significant. The two warring parties – the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudan’s military – have relied heavily on external support.

Both may find themselves suddenly without the largesse and military equipment from Gulf backers, depending on how the Iran war unfolds. This drawback of support could hit the RSF particularly hard as its biggest external backer, the UAE, focuses on its own security. Sudan’s military, however, may continue to benefit from Turkish and Egyptian support.

Much recent commentary has focused on evolving “alliances” and “blocs” that pit the UAE/Israel/Somaliland/Ethiopia against Turkey/Saudi Arabia/Egypt/Somalia within Sudan’s civil war.

This framing, however, often misses two basic facts. First, these are not alliances but rather opportunistic alignments that bring together diverse actors and interests from outside the Horn. These alignments have always been opportunistic on the part of external state actors, such as Turkey, the UAE and Qatar.

They hold only as long as external patrons can plausibly deliver resources, arms and diplomatic attention without unacceptable reputational damage to themselves.

Second, state leaders in the Horn of Africa have largely steered these relationships themselves. They have used external patrons to advance domestic and regional interests.

Gulf states’ opportunistic interventions were possible largely because they were at peace with one another and with Iran. That is no longer the case.

Sudan’s civil war may last even longer now that Gulf states are focused elsewhere. Neither side in the civil war will have the ability to land a knock-out punch.

Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia and Somaliland’s recognition

The Iran war could affect Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia and Somaliland in a number of ways.

Firstly, the diplomatic flurry of visits by Gulf leaders to Ethiopia and Somalia may slow. From 2023 to early 2026, Gulf leaders sought to shape political outcomes and advance investment and logistics interests. If this tempo slows, Horn actors will face less patronage and mediation, which may lead either to a pause in tensions or to quick escalation.

Secondly, Israel’s recognition of Somaliland – which Qatar and Saudi Arabia (as well as Egypt and Turkey) have taken a stand against – is now likely to be far from their agendas. Somalia’s long-standing ambition of reabsorbing Somaliland may also find waning external support.

Thirdly, Ethiopia’s interest in gaining access to the Red Sea has been one of the central issues in recent diplomatic manoeuvring in the Horn. With Saudi Arabia, in particular, focused on Iran, Addis Ababa may feel emboldened to formalise access through Somaliland (with which it had signed an agreement in 2024).

Turkey and Egypt may remain engaged

Two non-Gulf states, however, are likely to remain active in the Horn: Turkey and Egypt.

Turkey can still afford foreign policy opportunism in the region, as long as it does not become directly involved in the Iran war. For Ankara, the Gulf states’ distraction may create an opportunity to expand its influence. This could be through trying to help Somalia reassert control over Somaliland and other autonomous regions. It could also encourage Ethiopia to reduce tensions with Eritrea, or help balance relations between Ethiopia and Egypt. These would all enhance Turkey’s reputation outside its region and reinforce the image it has of itself as a rising, global power.

Egypt’s involvement is driven by existential concerns over the Nile. This is particularly about a dispute with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. This is a massive project on the Blue Nile that Egypt fears could reduce the flow of water on which its agriculture, economy and population depend.

For both Turkey and Egypt, curtailing Israel’s growing influence across the wider Middle East and the Horn of Africa remains a strategic priority. A stronger Israel would dilute Turkey’s desired role as a broker and patron in the Horn, and complicate Egypt’s efforts to constrain Ethiopia.

An emboldened Israel, however, could also reshape Egypt’s engagement with Ethiopia. Egypt and Turkey might offer Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed diplomatic incentives – including limited or symbolic access to the Red Sea in Somaliland’s port of Berbera, for instance. This would be in return for Addis Ababa’s agreement to reaffirm Somalia’s territorial integrity (and never recognise Somaliland). But this seems unlikely as neither Egypt nor Turkey possesses the power to put Somalia back together again.

The Horn’s own agenda

The real powers in the Horn of Africa remain the region’s own states and rival centres of authority. Horn states have the agency and interests to shape outcomes. They have long drawn external patrons into the region, playing them off against one another to extract resources, recognition and diplomatic support.

What the Iran war changes is not who sets the Horn’s agenda, but the external conditions under which Horn actors pursue it.

Gulf states have been opportunistic precisely because they had the capacity to act in the Horn when the Gulf itself was stable. That capacity may now be constrained.

This is not a new finding. In work published over five years ago, my colleague Federico Donelli and I argued that enduring security burdens at home limited the reach of Gulf ambitions in the Horn.

The Horn’s underlying conflicts and rivalries will therefore continue to interact in unpredictable ways.

– Gulf attention is turning inward: why the Iran war could destabilise the Horn of Africa
– https://theconversation.com/gulf-attention-is-turning-inward-why-the-iran-war-could-destabilise-the-horn-of-africa-277855