MIL Africa Engine

May 8, 2026

L’approvisionnement en gaz à l’ère de intelligence artificielle (IA) : le gaz naturel africain peut-il alimenter l’avenir numérique du continent ?

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Alors que l’intelligence artificielle (IA) entraîne une explosion sans précédent du traitement des données, une contrainte apparaît de plus en plus clairement : l’énergie. Les centres de données – épine dorsale de l’IA – nécessitent un approvisionnement énergétique vaste, stable et continu. Pour l’Afrique, ce défi se conjugue avec une opportunité. Les ressources abondantes en gaz naturel du continent pourraient le positionner comme un futur pôle d’infrastructures d’IA – à condition que l’approvisionnement puisse être efficacement mobilisé.

L’Afrique détient plus de 600 000 milliards de pieds cubes de réserves prouvées de gaz naturel, ce qui représente une part significative de l’approvisionnement mondial. Pourtant, malgré cette abondance, le continent n’en consomme qu’une fraction sur son territoire, une grande partie de la production étant historiquement destinée à l’exportation.

Dans le même temps, l’infrastructure numérique de l’Afrique reste sous-développée. Le continent ne représente que 0,6 % de la capacité mondiale des centres de données – alors qu’il compte près de 20 % de la population mondiale. La capacité totale installée s’élève à environ 1,2 GW pour l’ensemble des projets en cours, prévus et en cours de développement, avec seulement environ 360 MW actuellement opérationnels.

La demande, cependant, s’accélère rapidement. Les besoins en centres de données de l’Afrique devraient être multipliés par 3,5 à 5,5 d’ici 2030, nécessitant jusqu’à 10 à 20 milliards de dollars d’investissements. La demande en électricité augmente parallèlement, avec une croissance annuelle de 20 à 25 %, et devrait atteindre 8 000 GWh dans les années à venir.

C’est là que le gaz naturel devient essentiel. Contrairement aux énergies renouvelables intermittentes, l’électricité produite à partir du gaz offre une énergie réglable et de base, ce qui la rend particulièrement adaptée aux besoins de fonctionnement continu des centres de données. À l’échelle mondiale, les centres de données consomment déjà environ 1,5 % de l’électricité totale, avec une demande croissant d’environ 12 % par an, dépassant de loin la consommation électrique globale. Sur les marchés émergents, où la fiabilité du réseau est inégale, cet avantage en termes de fiabilité devient encore plus important.

Les grands projets gaziers à travers l’Afrique soulignent l’ampleur de l’offre potentielle. Les développements offshore du Mozambique – parmi les plus importants au monde – devraient produire plus de 13 millions de tonnes de GNL par an, tandis que le Nigeria continue de développer sa stratégie de monétisation du gaz autour de ses réserves de plus de 200 000 milliards de pieds cubes. Parallèlement, de nouveaux producteurs tels que le Sénégal et la Mauritanie font leur entrée sur le marché avec des projets de GNL à grande échelle.

L’opportunité ne réside pas simplement dans l’exportation du gaz, mais dans son utilisation au niveau national pour alimenter l’industrialisation et les infrastructures numériques. Aujourd’hui, l’Afrique exporte de l’énergie tout en étant confrontée à des pénuries d’électricité chroniques, ce qui crée un décalage entre la richesse en ressources et le développement économique.

Combler ce fossé pourrait redéfinir la trajectoire du continent. Les projets de conversion du gaz en électricité, associés au développement de centres de données, offrent une voie pour ancrer les infrastructures numériques dans les régions riches en énergie. Des pays comme le Nigeria, l’Égypte et l’Algérie sont particulièrement bien placés, tandis que des producteurs émergents comme le Mozambique et le Sénégal pourraient intégrer l’approvisionnement national dans de nouveaux pôles industriels et numériques dès le départ.

Cette convergence occupe désormais le devant de la scène dans les discussions du secteur. Lors de l’African Energy Week 2026, le volet « IA et centres de données » se concentrera sur la manière dont l’énergie – en particulier le gaz naturel – peut soutenir l’expansion numérique du continent. À mesure que l’infrastructure d’IA se développe, ce volet met en évidence une réalité fondamentale : sans énergie fiable et évolutive, l’Afrique risque de passer à côté de la prochaine vague d’investissements numériques mondiaux.

« Il ne s’agit pas seulement d’un débat sur l’énergie, mais d’une stratégie économique », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « Les centres de données d’IA nécessitent une alimentation électrique constante et fiable à grande échelle, et le gaz naturel est la seule ressource dont dispose aujourd’hui l’Afrique pour y répondre immédiatement. Si nous alignons le développement du gaz sur les infrastructures numériques, nous pourrons industrialiser, créer des emplois et positionner l’Afrique comme un acteur de premier plan dans l’économie mondiale de l’IA. »

Pourtant, des défis subsistent. Les lacunes en matière d’infrastructures, les contraintes de prix et l’incertitude réglementaire continuent de limiter l’utilisation du gaz sur le continent. Sans investissements coordonnés dans les gazoducs, les centrales électriques et les infrastructures numériques, l’Afrique risque de rester un simple exportateur d’énergie tout en important des services numériques.

Alors que l’IA génère une nouvelle vague de demande énergétique, le gaz naturel s’impose comme un catalyseur essentiel des infrastructures numériques. Pour l’Afrique, le défi – et l’opportunité – consiste à transformer cet atout en compétitivité mondiale.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

May 8, 2026

O abastecimento de gás na era da inteligência artificial (IA): poderá o gás natural africano impulsionar o futuro digital do continente?

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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À medida que a inteligência artificial (IA) impulsiona um aumento sem precedentes no processamento de dados, uma limitação torna-se cada vez mais evidente: a energia. Os centros de dados – a espinha dorsal da IA – requerem um abastecimento de energia vasto, estável e contínuo. Para África, este desafio cruza-se com uma oportunidade. Os abundantes recursos de gás natural do continente poderiam posicioná-lo como um futuro centro de infraestruturas de IA – se o abastecimento puder ser efetivamente mobilizado.

África detém mais de 600 biliões de pés cúbicos de reservas comprovadas de gás natural, representando uma parte significativa do abastecimento global. No entanto, apesar desta abundância, o continente consome apenas uma fração a nível interno, com grande parte da produção historicamente orientada para as exportações.

Ao mesmo tempo, a infraestrutura digital de África continua subdesenvolvida. O continente representa apenas 0,6% da capacidade global de centros de dados – apesar de representar quase 20% da população mundial. A capacidade instalada total situa-se em cerca de 1,2 GW entre projetos ativos, planeados e em fase de desenvolvimento, com apenas cerca de 360 MW atualmente operacionais.

A procura, no entanto, está a acelerar rapidamente. Prevê-se que as necessidades de centros de dados de África aumentem 3,5 a 5,5 vezes até 2030, exigindo um investimento de 10 a 20 mil milhões de dólares. A procura de energia está a aumentar em paralelo, crescendo 20 a 25% ao ano e prevendo-se que atinja 8 000 GWh nos próximos anos.

É aqui que o gás natural se torna fundamental. Ao contrário das energias renováveis intermitentes, a energia a gás oferece energia despachável e de carga de base – tornando-a particularmente adequada aos requisitos de funcionamento contínuo dos centros de dados. A nível global, os centros de dados já consomem cerca de 1,5% da eletricidade total, com a procura a crescer a um ritmo de aproximadamente 12% ao ano, ultrapassando largamente o consumo global de eletricidade. Nos mercados emergentes, onde a fiabilidade da rede é inconsistente, esta vantagem de fiabilidade torna-se ainda mais importante.

Grandes projetos de gás em toda a África sublinham a escala do potencial de oferta. Os desenvolvimentos offshore de Moçambique – entre os maiores a nível global – deverão produzir mais de 13 milhões de toneladas por ano de GNL, enquanto a Nigéria continua a expandir a sua estratégia de monetização do gás em torno das suas reservas de mais de 200 biliões de pés cúbicos. Entretanto, novos produtores, como o Senegal e a Mauritânia, estão a entrar no mercado com desenvolvimentos de GNL em grande escala.

A oportunidade não se resume simplesmente à exportação de gás, mas sim à sua utilização a nível interno para impulsionar a industrialização e as infraestruturas digitais. Atualmente, África exporta energia enquanto continua a enfrentar escassez crónica de energia, criando uma desconexão entre a riqueza em recursos e o desenvolvimento económico.

Colmatar esta lacuna poderá redefinir a trajetória do continente. Os projetos de conversão de gás em energia, integrados com o desenvolvimento de centros de dados, oferecem um caminho para ancorar a infraestrutura digital em regiões ricas em energia. Países como a Nigéria, o Egito e a Argélia estão particularmente bem posicionados, enquanto produtores emergentes como Moçambique e o Senegal poderão integrar o abastecimento interno em novos centros industriais e digitais desde o início.

Esta convergência está agora a passar para a vanguarda das discussões do setor. Na African Energy Week 2026, a sessão dedicada à IA e aos Centros de Dados irá centrar-se na forma como a energia – particularmente o gás natural – pode sustentar a expansão digital do continente. À medida que a infraestrutura de IA cresce, a sessão destaca uma realidade central: sem energia fiável e escalável, África corre o risco de ficar de fora da próxima onda de investimento digital global.

«Isto não é apenas uma discussão sobre energia – é uma estratégia económica», afirma NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da African Energy Chamber. «Os centros de dados de IA requerem energia constante e fiável em grande escala, e o gás natural é o único recurso que África possui hoje que pode fornecer isso imediatamente. Se alinharmos o desenvolvimento do gás com a infraestrutura digital, podemos industrializar, criar empregos e posicionar África como um interveniente de peso na economia global da IA.»

No entanto, os desafios permanecem. As lacunas nas infraestruturas, as restrições de preços e a incerteza regulatória continuam a limitar a utilização doméstica do gás. Sem um investimento coordenado em gasodutos, centrais elétricas e infraestruturas digitais, o continente corre o risco de continuar a desempenhar o seu papel de exportador de energia, enquanto importa serviços digitais.

À medida que a IA impulsiona uma nova onda de procura de energia, o gás natural está a emergir como um facilitador crítico das infraestruturas digitais. Para África, o desafio – e a oportunidade – é transformar essa vantagem em competitividade global.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

May 8, 2026

Gas Supply in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Can Africa’s Natural Gas Power the Continent’s Digital Future?

Source: APO

As artificial intelligence (AI) drives an unprecedented surge in data processing, one constraint is becoming increasingly clear: power. Data centers – the backbone of AI – require vast, stable and continuous energy supply. For Africa, this challenge intersects with an opportunity. The continent’s abundant natural gas resources could position it as a future hub for AI infrastructure – if supply can be effectively mobilized.

Africa holds over 600 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas reserves, representing a significant share of global supply. Yet despite this abundance, the continent consumes only a fraction domestically, with much of production historically geared toward exports.

At the same time, Africa’s digital infrastructure remains underdeveloped. The continent accounts for just 0.6% of global data center capacity – despite representing nearly 20% of the world’s population. Total installed capacity stands at roughly 1.2 GW across active, planned and pipeline projects, with only about 360 MW currently operational.

Demand, however, is accelerating rapidly. Africa’s data center needs are expected to increase 3.5 to 5.5 times by 2030, requiring up to $10–20 billion in investment. Power demand is rising in parallel, growing at 20–25% annually and projected to reach 8,000 GWh in the coming years.

This is where natural gas becomes critical. Unlike intermittent renewables, gas-fired power offers dispatchable, baseload energy – making it particularly suited to the always-on requirements of data centers. Globally, data centers already consume around 1.5% of total electricity, with demand growing at roughly 12% annually, far outpacing overall electricity consumption. In emerging markets, where grid reliability is inconsistent, this reliability advantage becomes even more important.

Major gas projects across Africa underscore the scale of potential supply. Mozambique’s offshore developments – among the largest globally – are expected to produce over 13 million tons per year of LNG, while Nigeria continues expanding its gas monetization strategy around its 200+ trillion cubic feet of reserves. Meanwhile, new producers such as Senegal and Mauritania are entering the market with large-scale LNG developments.

The opportunity is not simply about exporting gas, but about using it domestically to power industrialization and digital infrastructure. Today, Africa exports energy while still facing chronic power shortages, creating a disconnect between resource wealth and economic development.

Bridging this gap could redefine the continent’s trajectory. Gas-to-power projects, integrated with data center development, offer a pathway to anchor digital infrastructure in energy-rich regions. Countries such as Nigeria, Egypt and Algeria are particularly well positioned, while emerging producers like Mozambique and Senegal could embed domestic supply into new industrial and digital hubs from the outset.

This convergence is now moving to the forefront of industry discussions. At African Energy Week 2026, the AI and Data Center Track will focus on how power – particularly natural gas – can underpin the continent’s digital expansion. As AI infrastructure scales, the track highlights a central reality: without reliable, scalable energy, Africa risks missing out on the next wave of global digital investment.

“This is not just an energy discussion – it’s an economic strategy,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “AI data centers require constant, reliable power at scale, and natural gas is the only resource Africa has today that can deliver that immediately. If we align gas development with digital infrastructure, we can industrialize, create jobs and position Africa as a serious player in the global AI economy.”

Still, challenges remain. Infrastructure gaps, pricing constraints and regulatory uncertainty continue to limit domestic gas utilization. Without coordinated investment in pipelines, power plants and digital infrastructure, the continent risks continuing its role as an energy exporter while importing digital services.

As AI drives a new wave of energy demand, natural gas is emerging as a critical enabler of digital infrastructure. For Africa, the challenge – and opportunity – is to turn that advantage into global competitiveness.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

May 8, 2026

Birds of prey in South Africa are in trouble – a study analyses data from 16 years of road counts

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Santiago Zuluaga Castañeda, JdlC Researcher, Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC)

Birds of prey and vultures (raptors) play a vital role in ecosystems, both as top predators and key scavengers. However, compared to many other bird species, raptor populations are declining faster. This is because they need large areas to live in, have low population densities, and reproduce slowly. For these reasons they are vulnerable to human impacts like farming with pesticides, electrocution, collision with wind turbines, or poaching.

In many cases, by the time scientists and conservationists fully understand how bad the declines are, it may be too late to act. Thus, having good population monitoring is vital to act as an early warning system of declines. Many countries in the global south host important populations of raptors but lack effective monitoring programmes.

Africa is an important continent for raptor diversity. Several studies across Africa have used road counts (counting birds from repeated transects across routes) to monitor how raptor populations have changed over time. A recent study went one step further, combining trends from these different surveys from across Africa to better understand these changes at a pan-African scale. Unfortunately, no data from South Africa were available to be incorporated into this analysis.

Monitoring on the road.

In our recent study we took advantage of data that was collected by one dedicated fieldworker, Ronelle Visagie, who drove nearly 400,000 km (the distance from Earth to the moon) across the central area of South Africa (see map) between 2009 and 2025, while she worked for the Birds of Prey Programme of the Endangered Wildlife Trust.

Map of the study area showing the distribution of all road counts conducted between 2009 and 2025. The black polygon indicates the core survey area.

During these 16 years, Ronelle counted all the raptors and large birds that she saw on these work trips. Comparing how the rate of these observations (numbers of individuals per 100km driven) changed over time allowed us to explore species population trends. We had enough data to examine trends for 18 raptors and eight other large bird species over this period. Unfortunately, we did not find a good news story.

These road counts revealed that 50% of the species (13 out of 26) declined significantly, while only three species (12%) showed significant increases. The remaining ten species (38%) showed no significant trends (see Figure 2).

The declining trends raise serious concerns about the conservation status of several species in a region known to host important raptor populations. Thus, urgent conservation actions are needed, especially for species declining by more than 50%. Given that several of these species are not currently listed as threatened either globally or regionally, their conservation status may need to be reassessed.

Fig.2: Estimated population change for 26 species from road counts between 2009 and 2025 in South Africa. (a) Negative and (b) positive trends. The dashed vertical black line indicates a −50% population change. Author provided (no reuse)

Trends in raptor populations

According to our results, 42% of the assessed species declined by more than 50% in the last 16 years.

Notable declines included all of the three migratory species assessed (lesser kestrel, amur falcon and steppe buzzard). These trends match other studies from their breeding grounds in the northern hemisphere, which also suggested declines. Protecting migratory species is especially challenging because action may be needed in breeding areas, non-breeding areas, and along migration routes, where the threats they face may differ.

We also found declines of several resident raptors, including jackal buzzard, Verreaux’s eagle and secretarybird. Populations of these species declined by over 50% in our study region.

In contrast, populations of white-necked raven, greater kestrels, and white-backed vulture increased. The latter is a critically endangered species, but seems to be increasing within our study area.

Amur Falcon. Ronelle Visagie, Author provided (no reuse)

Some of the trends we detected were similar to a recent study that explored raptor population trends from across Africa using similar approaches to our study. For example, our findings of large declines for secretarybird and lesser kestrel were very similar to those reported in Kenya and Botswana. Additionally, similar population changes for secretarybird were detected during winter (but not summer) using road counts in the Nama Karoo (a major part of our study area) during the period just before our study (a 61% decline between the late 1980s and early 2010s). This suggests that the decline detected earlier may have continued into the mid-2020s.

Secretarybird. Megan Murgatroyd, Author provided (no reuse)

We compared the direction of trends (whether species numbers were going up or down) from our road counts and the Southern African Bird Atlas Project (SABAP2). But only about half of the trends agreed between the two methods (road counts and the bird atlas). Species with consistent trends between the methods included amur falcon and lesser kestrel – both showing declines – and greater kestrel and white-backed vulture – both showing increases. Species with inconsistent trends all showed decreases according to our road counts but increases according to the bird atlas project. These included Ludwig’s bustard, blue crane, secretarybird, black-winged kite, and southern pale chanting goshawk.

If we assume that our road counts trends are reliable, these findings suggest that although the bird atlas project data can provide valuable information on the changes in distribution of birds, atlas data may be less well suited to capture changes in abundance at large spatial scales and across multiple species.

Across Africa, declines in birds of prey are often linked to human population growth, agricultural expansion and climate change. In our study area, there have been no major recent changes in land use or population density, but more subtle or long-term human impacts may be driving these changes.

Conflicts between people and raptors, including illegal killings, could play a role. Climate change and infrastructure like power lines and wind farms are adding further pressure by fragmenting aerial habitat and affecting survival and reproduction.

Trends in human populations

Ronelle Visagie. Author provided (no reuse)

Human populations in Africa are expected to grow significantly over the next three decades, which will increase pressure on biodiversity.

Given the projected human population growth in Africa (79%), and a corresponding rise in demand for resources and energy, threats to vulnerable bird species are likely to get worse.

Gareth Tate. Author provided (no reuse)

It is therefore essential that we have reliable tools to monitor species trends and better understand the impacts of these pressures.

This is crucial for understanding the current biodiversity crisis and preventing severe wildlife loss.

Ronelle Visagie and Gareth Tate of the Endangered Wildlife Trust contributed to this research.

– Birds of prey in South Africa are in trouble – a study analyses data from 16 years of road counts
– https://theconversation.com/birds-of-prey-in-south-africa-are-in-trouble-a-study-analyses-data-from-16-years-of-road-counts-281908

May 8, 2026

Merck Foundation and African First Ladies are Making History in Africa by Training the First Oncologists and Cancer Care teams in their Countries

Source: APO

Merck Foundation together with African First Ladies and Ministries of Health continues to build cancer care capacity by providing around 260 Scholarships of One-year Clinical Training in many oncology sub- specialties, and One year and Two year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management.
Merck Foundation is making history in Africa by training the First African Oncologists and First Cancer Care Teams in Countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Niger, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.
Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO together with African First Ladies recently released “Ray of Hope” children’s storybook and Animation Film for Cancer Awareness in three languages. Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here: https://apo-opa.co/4wj0apB

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks ‘World Cancer Day 2026’ together with Africa’s First Ladies and Ministries of Health by continuing to build and advance cancer care capacity through their Cancer Access Program, with the aim to increase the limited number of Oncologists in Africa.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) explained, “At Merck Foundation, we mark World Cancer Day through our sustained, everyday efforts to transform cancer care in Africa by addressing one of its most critical gaps: late diagnosis and the shortage of trained specialists.

Together with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, we have strengthened cancer care capacity in the continent by providing 258 Oncology Scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 African and Asian countries, significantly increasing the number of trained oncologists and developing the multidisciplinary cancer care teams. In several of these countries, there wasn’t even a single oncologist. We are very proud that we are making history by training the first oncologists and first multidisciplinary cancer care teams in many countries like The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Niger, and many more.”

Merck Foundation in total provided more than 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialities.

“Merck Foundation remains committed to transforming the landscape of patient care in general, and cancer care in particular, leading Africa toward a healthier future,” Dr. Rasha Kelej further explained.

As part of their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation has to date provided 258 Scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 countries as per the following:

Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of One year clinical training in most of oncology sub- specialties such as; Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Genital Urinary oncology, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.

Moreover, Merck Foundation provides One-year and Two-year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.

The 34 countries include Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

According to WHO data (2022), Africa sees roughly 1.1 million new cancer cases and up to about 700,000 cancer deaths each year. Cancer mortality rates in Africa are much higher than in many other regions of the world, reflecting late diagnosis, limited access to care, and gaps in health systems. Therefore, Merck Foundation’s oncology scholarships play a critically important role in strengthening cancer care capacity across the continent.

Dr. Rasha Kelej further shared, “Nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be successfully treated when diagnosed early, and up to one-third can be prevented by reducing key risk factors such as exposure to radiation, certain infections, and lifestyle-related causes. To raise awareness about it, we have recently launched a children storybook and its adaptive animation film “Ray of Hope”, in partnership with African First Ladies. The story deals with childhood cancer and highlights the critical importance of early detection and access to well-trained cancer care teams capable of recognizing early warning signs.”

Read ‘Ray of Hope’ storybook here: https://apo-opa.co/4npV5b6

Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here: https://apo-opa.co/4wj0apB

Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.

Dr Judith Mkwaila, Merck Foundation Alumni from Malawi shares, “It was a great honor and privilege to be awarded the Merck Foundation Scholarship to pursue the Surgical Oncology fellowship training program at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, India. The fellowship gave me both, theoretical and hands-on training in complex oncological procedures for head and neck cancers, breast, upper gastrointestinal and colorectal cancers. I was exposed to a multidisciplinary team approach in cancer care hence deepening my knowledge and skills in multimodality approach to cancer treatment for both curative and palliative purposes. Due to the knowledge and skills acquired through the training, I was able to start a General Surgical Clinic and become the First and Only Female Chief Surgeon at the Mzuzu Central Hospital. I am very thankful to Merck Foundation for the opportunity given to me to pursue this fellowship program and for continuing this noble cause of increasing access to high quality cancer care.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3QStt29), X (https://apo-opa.co/4dir4Fz), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4tlB5HG), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4uGPKyx), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4ddMROq) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4tm4K3w).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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May 8, 2026

Seychelles participates in United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) forum marking the International Day for Small Island Developing States

Source: APO

Mr. Georges Tirant, Ambassador of Seychelles to France and Permanent Delegate of Seychelles to UNESCO, took part in the high-level panel on “Partnerships and Financing”, held at UNESCO Headquarters to mark the International Day for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Ambassador Tirant highlighted key achievements in advancing the SIDS agenda, including the establishment of the SIDS Group, the Group of Friends of SIDS, and the development of dedicated strategies. He reiterated the importance of recognising SIDS as a priority group within UNESCO, supported by a dedicated Director, to strengthen advocacy for climate action and financing.

A central objective of Seychelles’ participation was to promote the country’s World Heritage nomination for the Mission Ruins of Venn’s Town, which would become Seychelles’ first historic site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Ambassador underscored the significance of this nomination for safeguarding Seychelles’ cultural heritage and enhancing global recognition of its historical legacy.

He also recalled Seychelles’ leadership in innovative financing, notably the 2018 Blue Bond, which mobilised capital for marine and ocean-based projects delivering environmental, economic, and climate benefits. He further emphasised the importance of implementing the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) across global decision-making processes.

The panel featured senior representatives from UNESCO, the European Union, Australia, and regional organisations, and was moderated by the Co-Chairs of the Group of Friends of SIDS.

An exhibition showcasing SIDS cultural heritage was held alongside the event. In collaboration with the Seychellois diaspora, the Embassy of Seychelles in Paris presented a stand featuring traditional Seychellois culinary dishes.

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

May 8, 2026

South Africa to mark International Day of Plant Health in Mpumalanga

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa to mark International Day of Plant Health in Mpumalanga

The Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, will commemorate the 2026 International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) in Mbombela.

The International Day of Plant Health is observed annually on 12 May to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can end hunger, reduce poverty, protect the environment, and boost economic development.

The event will take place at the Ehlanzeni District Office Disaster Management Centre and forms part of global efforts to promote plant health and biosecurity.

The International Day of Plant Health was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect biodiversity and the environment, and boost economic development.

This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme “Plant Biosecurity for Food Security”, highlighting the importance of safeguarding crops and natural vegetation from pests and diseases.

The initiative also supports the objectives of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger.

The department said the event seeks to increase awareness among policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public about the need to protect plant resources, especially in the context of growing international trade in plants and plant products.

“The IDPH is further envisaged to assist in minimising the risk of spreading plant pests as a result of international trade in plants and plant products and foster the implementation of the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM),” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/08/2026 – 14:54

May 8, 2026

Le secrétaire général de Organisation des producteurs africains de pétrole (APPO), M. Ghezali, prendra la parole lors de African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 alors que la Banque africaine de l’énergie s’apprête à voir le jour

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Farid Ghezali, secrétaire général de l’Organisation des producteurs africains de pétrole (APPO), prendra la parole lors de l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, qui se tiendra du 12 au 16 octobre au Cap. M. Ghezali dirige cet organisme panafricain qui, aux côtés de la Banque africaine d’import-export (Afrexibank), est à la tête de la Banque africaine de l’énergie (AEB) – une institution historique qui devrait devenir opérationnelle d’ici juin 2026 à Abuja, au Nigeria. Sa participation à l’AEW place l’évolution de l’architecture financière africaine au cœur de l’ordre du jour de l’événement.

Fondée à Lagos en 1987, l’APPO est passée de huit États membres fondateurs à 18, représentant l’ensemble des pays producteurs de pétrole d’Afrique, de l’Algérie et du Nigeria au nord et à l’ouest jusqu’à la Namibie et l’Afrique du Sud au sud. Basée à Brazzaville, au Congo, l’organisation a fait l’objet d’une réforme majeure en 2019, élargissant son mandat au-delà de la coordination des marchés pour faciliter activement l’investissement et le financement à travers le continent. L’AEB est à ce jour le résultat le plus significatif de ce mandat élargi.

La banque est conçue pour combler le vide financier créé par le retrait des institutions occidentales des projets pétroliers et gaziers africains. Avec plus de 150 projets essentiels au point mort à travers le continent en raison de déficits de capitaux, le mandat de l’AEB couvre l’ensemble de la chaîne de valeur, de l’exploration en amont et des infrastructures intermédiaires jusqu’à la distribution en aval. Créée avec une capitalisation initiale de 5 milliards de dollars, la banque vise 10 milliards de dollars de déploiements dans la phase 1, avec un objectif à plus long terme de lever 15 milliards de dollars pour des projets pétroliers et gaziers d’ici 2030. Le Nigeria a remis le siège de la banque à Abuja à l’APPO et à Afrexibank en février 2026, marquant ainsi une étape cruciale vers son lancement opérationnel.

Au-delà du financement direct de projets, M. Ghezali a souligné le potentiel de l’AEB à transformer la manière dont les compagnies pétrolières nationales africaines (NOC) accèdent aux capitaux. Les 18 SNP de l’APPO ont historiquement opéré sans plateforme financière commune, ce qui a limité leur capacité collective à attirer des investissements à grande échelle. La banque devrait soutenir les introductions en bourse des SNP, en connectant les producteurs souverains aux marchés de capitaux et aux fonds souverains à grande échelle, tout en visant à unifier la tarification intra-africaine du pétrole et du gaz afin de générer jusqu’à 30 % d’économies sur les importations d’énergie dans les États membres.

« L’AEB représente plus qu’une nouvelle institution financière. C’est une déclaration selon laquelle l’Afrique entend contrôler les conditions de son propre développement énergétique », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « L’APPO a passé des années à jeter les bases institutionnelles et à harmoniser les positions des États membres pour rendre ce projet crédible. »

L’AEW 2026 – le plus grand rassemblement africain consacré à l’énergie – réunira des décideurs politiques, des développeurs de projets, des financiers et des opérateurs afin d’évaluer comment l’arrivée de l’AEB redéfinit le paysage du financement énergétique du continent. L’intervention de M. Ghezali devrait figurer parmi les sessions les plus marquantes de l’événement, alors que le secteur pétrolier et gazier africain traverse une phase de transition décisive dans le mode de financement de ses projets.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

May 8, 2026

Speech by the Deputy Minister in The Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli on the occasion of the Cyber Lab handover at Paballelo Senior Secondary School

Source: President of South Africa –

Honourable Executive Mayor, Cllr Kazi
Programme Director, Mrs Mazaleni
Principal of Paballelo High School, Gudula
Representatives from the School Governing Body
Distinguished representatives from HUAWEI, especially Deputy CEO Mr Charles Cheng
Representatives from the School District Office
Educators and staff members
Parents and guardians
Members of the Representative Council of Learners
Learners of Paballelo Senior Secondary School
Ladies and gentlemen
Good afternoon,

It is a true honour and deeply personal privilege for me to stand before you today at Paballelo High School.

This school holds a very special place in my heart because this is the very school from which I matriculated. Returning here today, as Deputy Minister in the Presidency, is both humbling and emotional. I am very glad to be back at the institution that helped shape my journey and laid the foundation for my future.

Coming back to these grounds reminds me of the dreams we carried as young learners, the challenges we faced, and the educators who believed in us and encouraged us to aim higher.

And today is no ordinary day, Programme Director. Today marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly and formally laid the foundation for the democratic South Africa we know today.

This milestone invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality, and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important. As a country, we must ensure that our young people understand the full story of our nation, our struggles, our triumphs, and the lessons of our past. History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans.

Today’s handover ceremony is therefore more than just an official event. It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community.
I would like to extend sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development. Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners.

Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development.

To the learners of Paballelo High School, I want to say this:
Your circumstances do not define your destiny. I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community.
Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential.

South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed.

I would also like to encourage all learners here today who are 16 years and older to register to vote. Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard.

To the matric class of 2026, I want to encourage you to make full use of the opportunities that this new lab and its resources will provide. Use this facility to research career opportunities, apply to universities and colleges on time, and prepare yourselves for the future economy. Technology is a gateway to opportunity, and you must use it to unlock your full potential.

Allow me also to extend a sincere word of gratitude to HUAWEI Deputy CEO, Mr Charles Cheng, for your support and commitment to education development in our country. Your contribution today will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many learners at Paballelo High School. We value this partnership and your investment in the future of our young people.

As government, we remain committed to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that learners, particularly in underserved communities, have access to opportunities and resources that prepare them for the future.

I once again thank everyone who made today possible and congratulate Paballelo Senior Secondary School on this important occasion.

I am proud to be home.

I thank you.

May 8, 2026

Constitution laid the foundation for a democratic SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Constitution laid the foundation for a democratic SA

As South Africa marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli said the milestone “invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going”.

Speaking during the handing over of Cyber Lab at Paballelo Senior Secondary School, Mhlauli told the learners that the day reminded the country of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

“It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important,” she said.

Mhlauli said South Africa must ensure that young people understand the full story of the nation, its struggles, its triumphs and the lessons of the past.

“History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans,” the Deputy Minister said.

The Department of Basic Education has published the draft new History Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements for Grades 4 to 12 for public comment.

The current publication forms part of a curriculum review process that has been under way for several years. It provides for the study of ancient and modern pasts, the use of historical and archaeological sources and the development of historical thinking, historical consciousness and historical culture.

Mhlauli told the learners that the handover ceremony was more than just an official event. “It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community,” she said.

She extend her sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development.

“Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners.

“Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development,” she said.

The Deputy Minister also told the learners that their circumstances do not define their destiny.

“I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community. Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential. South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

“To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed,” she said.

Mhlauli said also encouraged all the learners who are 16 years and older to register to vote.

“Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 05/08/2026 – 14:52