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Government reaffirms gender equality commitment at Portraits of Power exhibition

Source: Government of South Africa

Government reaffirms gender equality commitment at Portraits of Power exhibition

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has reaffirmed government’s commitment to advancing gender equality and honouring women’s legacies at the inaugural Portraits of Power exhibition, which pays tribute to Charlotte Mannya Maxeke’s enduring contribution to women’s leadership and social justice.

“In South Africa, we remain firmly committed to advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women. This commitment is rooted in our Constitution and reflected in our policies, programmes and partnerships. We recognise that inclusive leadership is not optional,” the Minister said on Tuesday, in Pretoria.

The Minister was addressing the launch of the Portraits of Power Exhibition, which celebrates extraordinary women whose courage, leadership and contributions have shaped nations and inspired generations.

The International Portraits of Power exhibition is a Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute initiative presented in partnership with The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa and participating diplomatic missions.

“Portraits of Power goes beyond celebration. It is a recognition that women’s contributions transcend borders, cultures and generations. Across the globe, women are at the forefront of leadership, diplomacy, innovation and development. 

“They are shaping policies, building communities and driving progress in ways that are both transformative and enduring.

“Therefore, the Presidency will continue to support this initiative and others like it, because the story of humanity is incomplete without recognising the invaluable contributions of women across all spheres of life,” Ntshavheni said.

The Portraits of Power project forms part of a series of legacy projects commemorating the 155th birthday anniversary of Mannya-Maxeke. 

“Charlotte Mannya Maxeke was a woman of remarkable strength and enduring influence, and a trailblazer in every sense. As the first Black woman to graduate with a university degree in Southern Africa, we tend to limit her to being the first Black woman to graduate in South Africa, but she was the first Black woman to graduate with a degree in Southern Africa after obtaining her Bachelor of Science degree on 20 June 1901, from Wilberforce University in the United States of America.  Mannya-Maxeke led the path for women’s rights and gender equality,” the Minister said.

Ntshavheni pointed out that Mannya Maxeke was the only woman present when the South African Native National Congress, later known as the African National Congress, was formed in 1912.

“Mannya Maxeke decisively asserted the need for women’s representation in the corridors of power in South Africa. She went on to become the founding president of two of the most important women-led institutions on the continent. Of particular importance to us is the Bantu Women’s League, which later evolved into the ANC Women’s League in the 1940s,” the Minister said.

While the government has made strides in empowering women since South Africa attained freedom, the Minister said the journey toward full equality is not yet complete.

“There remains work to be done to ensure that women everywhere in the world have equal access to opportunities, resources, platforms for leadership and education,” the Minister said.

She emphasised the importance of inclusive leadership, saying it is essential for sustainable development, social justice and lasting peace. 

“We also recognise that achieving this vision requires collaboration. It requires governments, the private sector, civil society and the international community to work together to create environments where women can thrive, lead and succeed.

“Therefore, let this exhibition be more than a moment of admiration. Let it be a call to action. Let us commit to supporting and elevating the voices of women in all spaces.

“Let us invest in their potential and remove the barriers that hinder their progress. Let us strengthen global partnerships that promote equality, dignity and opportunity for all.

“In doing so, we not only honour the legacy of those who came before us, like Maxeke and the other women who are being honoured today, but we also ensure that, through this initiative and others like it, we are paving the way for the celebration of future generations of women leaders,” Ntshavheni said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Tournée de prise de contact : Le Ministre Armand Kuyema NATTA à l’écoute des acteurs de l’éducation dans le Mono et le Couffo

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Ministre des Enseignements Maternel et Primaire, Monsieur Armand Kuyema NATTA, poursuit sa tournée de prise de contact à travers les départements du Bénin. Le lundi 03 août 2026, il a été reçu par les acteurs de l’éducation des départements du Mono et du Couffo. Accompagné du Ministre Conseiller, Monsieur Paulin GBENOU et de quelques membres de son cabinet, il a échangé avec les professionnels du secteur afin de consolider les acquis et se projeter vers les défis à venir. Saluée par les acteurs éducatifs, cette démarche traduit la volonté affichée du MEMP de renforcer le dialogue avec ces acteurs de terrain. 

À Lokossa, le Préfet Bienvenu Dêdêgnon MILOHIN a accueilli la délégation, soulignant l’importance de cette démarche : « Nous accueillons déjà cette visite comme un engagement, une responsabilité que vous prenez à rester à l’écoute des acteurs de terrain que nous sommes afin qu’ensemble, nous puissions trouver des solutions idoines pour améliorer les performances de nos diverses administrations ». 

À cette occasion, le Ministre NATTA a, pour sa part, rassuré les acteurs réunis, articulant sa vision en deux phases. La première vise à « renforcer les acquis », citant le taux de réussite au CEP 2026 comme indicateur de référence, tout en insistant sur la scolarisation des filles, le maintien des élèves en classe et le suivi des programmes. La seconde phase, résolument tournée vers l’avenir, est celle de « l’innovation ». Le Ministre a appelé à une adaptation au « monde de la digitalisation, du monde informatique, du numérique et du monde de l’intelligence artificielle », plaçant l’IA au cœur de la transformation éducative. 

Les acteurs, par la voix de Monsieur Sylvain MIKPONHOUÉ, chef de la circonscription scolaire de Houéyogbé, ont exprimé leur engagement et formulé des doléances, notamment le renforcement du dialogue et la dotation en matériels informatiques et roulants. 

Monsieur Paulin GBENOU, Ministre Conseiller, a appuyé l’urgence de l’innovation par l’intelligence artificielle, la considérant comme une priorité pour pérenniser les acquis. Après le Mono et le Couffo, la délégation poursuivra son périple dans les départements du Zou et des Collines, pour le même exercice.

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

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Africa’s Leading Energy Companies and Projects Shortlisted for African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Awards

Source: APO – Report:

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The nominees for the African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 recognize the companies, projects and individuals driving innovation, investment and growth across Africa’s energy sector. Featuring 12 categories spanning the full energy value chain, the awards celebrate the achievements shaping the continent’s energy future.

Winners will be announced during the AEW 2026 Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony, taking place on Tuesday, October 13, in Cape Town. The ceremony will bring together ministers, industry leaders, investors and technology providers to recognize excellence in upstream, downstream, gas, power, local content, technology and corporate leadership.

African Service Provider of the Year

  • GeoEnergy Group – for advancing digital transformation through the Egypt Upstream Gateway while strengthening local technical expertise across Africa.
  • One Titanium – for delivering specialized services supporting Africa’s energy industry.
  • KAESO – for expanding indigenous engineering and technical services across African markets.
  • SONILS – for strengthening logistics and supply chain services for integrated energy projects.
  • NIPEX – for enhancing procurement and local supplier participation in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

International Service Provider of the Year

  • NOV – for supporting major energy developments with advanced engineering and equipment solutions.
  • Geoex MCG – for nearly two decades of supporting Equatorial Guinea’s offshore exploration through seismic data acquisition and licensing support.
  • Africa Global Logistics – for expanding integrated logistics solutions supporting energy projects across Africa.
  • Technip Energies – for delivering engineering expertise across major African energy developments.
  • SBM Offshore – for advancing offshore production through industry-leading FPSO solutions.
  • SLB – for deploying advanced technologies and technical services across Africa’s upstream sector.

Local Content Champion (African Companies)

  • Seplat Energy – for maintaining a 98% Nigerian workforce while investing in local talent development and procurement.
  • Copia Group of Companies – for strengthening indigenous participation across Angola’s energy value chain.
  • Renaissance Africa Energy – for expanding Nigerian ownership and local participation in upstream operations.
  • Cabship – for growing Angolan maritime and offshore services through locally driven operations.

Local Content Champion (International Companies)

  • TotalEnergies Uganda – for developing the Tilenga Academy to train Uganda’s future oil and gas workforce.
  • NOV – for supporting local skills development and supplier participation across African markets.
  • Woodside Energy – for advancing local workforce development through its African operations.
  • Africa Global Logistics – for building African logistics capacity through local employment, training and supplier development.

E&P Leader of the Year

  • Shell – for the Merlin-1X discovery in Namibia and the Velox-1X discovery offshore Egypt, reinforcing its exploration leadership.
  • Renaissance Africa Energy & NNPCL – for the JK-004 discovery in Nigeria’s OML 74, confirming multiple hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs.
  • Murphy Oil – for the Bubale-1X light oil discovery offshore Côte d’Ivoire in Block CI-709.
  • Eni – for major discoveries in Côte d’Ivoire and Angola that expanded Africa’s offshore resource base.
  • OMV & Libya’s National Oil Corporation – for the Eassar commercial oil discovery in Libya’s Sirte Basin.

Downstream & Infrastructure Leader of the Year

  • Dangote Refinery – for transforming Nigeria’s refining capacity and reducing dependence on imported fuels.
  • Cabinda Oil Refinery – for expanding Angola’s domestic refining capacity as part of its downstream growth strategy.
  • East African Crude Oil Pipeline – for advancing one of Africa’s largest cross-border energy infrastructure projects.
  • African Atlantic Gas Pipeline – for progressing a strategic regional gas corridor linking West Africa with Morocco and Europe.

Deal of the Year

  • Trafigura – for its $1 billion oil prepayment agreement with the Republic of Gabon.
  • Levene Energies – for acquiring a 30% stake in Axxela through the Bluecore consortium, strengthening indigenous ownership.
  • Heirs Energies – for acquiring a 20.07% stake in Seplat Energy in a landmark African-led transaction.
  • UTM FLNG – for advancing Nigeria’s first floating LNG project through a major multi-party development agreement.

CSR Project of the Year

  • Mozambique LNG – for supporting flood recovery efforts benefiting approximately 190,000 people in southern Mozambique.
  • South African National Petroleum Company – for expanding STEM education through its Axium STEMI initiative in the Eastern Cape.
  • Kosmos Energy Ghana – for empowering entrepreneurs through the Kosmos Innovation Center.
  • Sonangol – for supporting youth entrepreneurship through its SonaJovem program.
  • Eni – for expanding clean cooking initiatives across Africa.
  • Oando Foundation – for improving education through its Adopt-A-School Initiative in Nigeria.

Gas Monetization Award

  • Levene Energies – for advancing gas commercialization and infrastructure-led industrial development.
  • NOV APL Norway – for supporting the Nguya FLNG project and expanding offshore LNG production in Congo.
  • Congo LNG – for advancing the Tango and Nguya FLNG projects to strengthen the Republic of Congo’s LNG industry.
  • Amufert – for developing Angola’s flagship ammonia and urea project utilizing domestic natural gas.

Technology Innovator

  • TotalEnergies – for developing the SUBLIIM digital platform to optimize subsea field layouts.
  • SOLA Group – for reaching financial close on South Africa’s largest private hybrid solar and battery storage project.
  • Shearwater – for deploying its Pearl ocean-bottom node technology during its first commercial survey in Angola.
  • TGS & Starlink – for redefining seismic data transfer through satellite-enabled connectivity.

Power Africa Developer

  • TotalEnergies – for inaugurating Africa’s largest hybrid renewable energy project.
  • Siemens Energy – for expanding gas turbine and grid infrastructure supporting Africa’s growing power demand.
  • Globeleq – for growing its renewable energy portfolio across wind, solar, geothermal and battery storage.
  • Infinity Power – for expanding one of Africa’s largest renewable energy development portfolios.E

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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President Herminie Receives Commemorative Plaque as Seychelles and United States Mark 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations

Source: APO – Report:

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President Dr Patrick Herminie today received Mr Christopher Green, the new Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Seychelles, at State House, on the occasion of the Presentation of a Commemorative Plaque marking the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the Republic of Seychelles and the United States of America.

The presentation, made on behalf of the outgoing Chargé d’Affaires Mr. Adham Louti, was followed by discussions between President Herminie and CDA Green centred on two priority areas of the bilateral relationship: maritime security and the fight against illicit drug trafficking.

The exchange on counter-narcotics cooperation was particularly robust, with both President Herminie and CDA Green drawing on their respective backgrounds in the field. President Herminie briefed CDA Green on Seychelles’ upcoming IBBS (Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance) study, a national exercise designed to assess the magnitude and circulation of illicit drugs within the country. CDA Green, for his part, affirmed the Embassy’s readiness to support Seychelles in the area of drug demand reduction, drawing on expertise available within the U.S. mission to assist local efforts to curb drug use within communities.

On maritime security, the two sides reaffirmed the value of longstanding cooperation in keeping the western Indian Ocean safe, open and free, including through joint efforts to strengthen maritime domain awareness and counter illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, trafficking and piracy.

CDA Green outlined his mandate for his posting in Seychelles, which centres on the practical implementation of agreements already concluded between the two countries, overseeing the completion of the new United States Embassy at Ile Perseverance, as well as welcoming the new Ambassador of the United States to Seychelles.

The meeting comes as Seychelles and the United States mark half a century of diplomatic relations in 2026, a partnership that has grown to encompass security and maritime cooperation, counter-narcotics, military training and exchanges, the recently signed State Partnership Program with a U.S. National Guard unit, and a range of education and people-to-people ties.

President Herminie welcomed the continued strength of the partnership and reaffirmed the Seychelles Government’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the United States across shared priorities, including security, education, trade, economic opportunity and people-to-people ties.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Principais empresas e projetos do setor energético africano selecionados para os Prémios African Energy Week (AEW) 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Os nomeados para a African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 reconhecem as empresas, os projetos e os indivíduos que impulsionam a inovação, o investimento e o crescimento em todo o setor energético africano. Com 12 categorias que abrangem toda a cadeia de valor da energia, os prémios celebram as conquistas que estão a moldar o futuro energético do continente.

Os vencedores serão anunciados durante o Jantar de Gala e Cerimónia de Entrega de Prémios da AEW 2026, que terá lugar na terça-feira, 13 de outubro, na Cidade do Cabo. A cerimónia reunirá ministros, líderes do setor, investidores e fornecedores de tecnologia para reconhecer a excelência nas áreas de upstream, downstream, gás, energia, conteúdo local, tecnologia e liderança empresarial.

Prestador de Serviços Africano do Ano

  • GeoEnergy Group – por impulsionar a transformação digital através do Egypt Upstream Gateway, reforçando simultaneamente os conhecimentos técnicos locais em toda a África.
  • One Titanium – pela prestação de serviços especializados de apoio à indústria energética africana.
  • KAESO – pela expansão dos serviços de engenharia e técnicos locais nos mercados africanos.
  • SONILS – pelo reforço dos serviços de logística e da cadeia de abastecimento para projetos energéticos integrados.
  • NIPEX – por melhorar as aquisições e a participação de fornecedores locais no setor do petróleo e gás da Nigéria.

Prestador de Serviços Internacional do Ano

  • NOV – por apoiar grandes projetos de desenvolvimento energético com soluções avançadas de engenharia e equipamento.
  • Geoex MCG – por quase duas décadas de apoio à exploração offshore da Guiné Equatorial através da aquisição de dados sísmicos e do apoio ao licenciamento.
  • Africa Global Logistics – por expandir soluções logísticas integradas que apoiam projetos energéticos em toda a África.
  • Technip Energies – pela disponibilização de conhecimentos especializados em engenharia em grandes projetos energéticos africanos.
  • SBM Offshore – pelo avanço da produção offshore através de soluções FPSO líderes do setor.
  • SLB – pela implementação de tecnologias avançadas e serviços técnicos em todo o setor a montante africano.

Campeão do Conteúdo Local (Empresas Africanas)

  • Seplat Energy – por manter uma força de trabalho nigeriana de 98%, ao mesmo tempo que investe no desenvolvimento de talentos locais e nas aquisições.
  • Copia Group of Companies – pelo reforço da participação local em toda a cadeia de valor energética de Angola.
  • Renaissance Africa Energy – pela expansão da participação nigeriana e local nas operações a montante.
  • Cabship – pelo crescimento dos serviços marítimos e offshore angolanos através de operações impulsionadas localmente.

Campeão do Conteúdo Local (Empresas Internacionais)

  • TotalEnergies Uganda – pelo desenvolvimento da Academia Tilenga para formar a futura força de trabalho do setor do petróleo e gás do Uganda.
  • NOV – pelo apoio ao desenvolvimento de competências locais e à participação de fornecedores nos mercados africanos.
  • Woodside Energy – por promover o desenvolvimento da força de trabalho local através das suas operações em África.
  • Africa Global Logistics – por reforçar a capacidade logística africana através do emprego local, da formação e do desenvolvimento de fornecedores.

Líder do Ano em E&P

  • Shell – pela descoberta do Merlin-1X na Namíbia e da Velox-1X ao largo do Egito, reforçando a sua liderança na exploração.
  • Renaissance Africa Energy & NNPCL – pela descoberta do JK-004 na OML 74 da Nigéria, confirmando a existência de múltiplos reservatórios contendo hidrocarbonetos.
  • Murphy Oil – pela descoberta de petróleo leve Bubale-1X ao largo da Costa do Marfim, no Bloco CI-709.
  • Eni – pelas importantes descobertas na Costa do Marfim e em Angola que expandiram a base de recursos offshore de África.
  • OMV e a National Oil Corporation da Líbia – pela descoberta comercial de petróleo Eassar na Bacia de Sirte, na Líbia.

Líder do Ano em Downstream e Infraestruturas

  • Refinaria Dangote – por transformar a capacidade de refinação da Nigéria e reduzir a dependência de combustíveis importados.
  • Refinaria de Cabinda – por expandir a capacidade de refinação interna de Angola como parte da sua estratégia de crescimento no setor downstream.
  • Oleoduto de Petróleo Bruto da África Oriental – pelo avanço de um dos maiores projetos de infraestruturas energéticas transfronteiriças de África.
  • Gasoduto Africano do Atlântico – pelo avanço de um corredor regional estratégico de gás que liga a África Ocidental a Marrocos e à Europa.

Negócio do Ano

  • Trafigura – pelo seu acordo de pré-pagamento de petróleo no valor de mil milhões de dólares com a República do Gabão.
  • Levene Energies – pela aquisição de uma participação de 30% na Axxela através do consórcio Bluecore, reforçando a propriedade local.
  • Heirs Energies – pela aquisição de uma participação de 20,07% na Seplat Energy, numa transação histórica liderada por africanos.
  • UTM FLNG – pelo avanço do primeiro projeto de GNL flutuante da Nigéria através de um importante acordo de desenvolvimento multipartidário.

Projeto de RSE do Ano

  • Mozambique LNG – pelo apoio aos esforços de recuperação após as inundações, que beneficiaram cerca de 190 000 pessoas no sul de Moçambique.
  • South African National Petroleum Company – pela expansão do ensino das disciplinas STEM através da sua iniciativa Axium STEMI na Província do Cabo Oriental.
  • Kosmos Energy Ghana – pelo apoio ao empreendedorismo através do Kosmos Innovation Center.
  • Sonangol – pelo apoio ao empreendedorismo juvenil através do seu programa SonaJovem.
  • Eni – pela expansão de iniciativas de cozinha limpa em toda a África.
  • Fundação Oando – pela melhoria da educação através da sua iniciativa «Adopt-A-School» na Nigéria.

Prémio de Monetização do Gás

  • Levene Energies – pelo avanço da comercialização do gás e do desenvolvimento industrial impulsionado pelas infraestruturas.
  • NOV APL Norway – pelo apoio ao projeto Nguya FLNG e pela expansão da produção offshore de GNL no Congo.
  • Congo LNG – pelo avanço dos projetos Tango e Nguya FLNG para fortalecer a indústria de GNL da República do Congo.
  • Amufert – pelo desenvolvimento do projeto emblemático de amoníaco e ureia de Angola, utilizando gás natural nacional.

Inovador Tecnológico

  • TotalEnergies – pelo desenvolvimento da plataforma digital SUBLIIM para otimizar os layouts dos campos submarinos.
  • SOLA Group – por ter concluído o financiamento do maior projeto privado híbrido de energia solar e armazenamento em baterias da África do Sul.
  • Shearwater – pela implantação da sua tecnologia de nós no fundo do oceano «Pearl» durante o seu primeiro levantamento comercial em Angola.
  • TGS & Starlink – por redefinirem a transferência de dados sísmicos através de conectividade via satélite.

Desenvolvedor do Power Africa

  • TotalEnergies – pela inauguração do maior projeto híbrido de energias renováveis de África.
  • Siemens Energy – pela expansão da infraestrutura de turbinas a gás e da rede elétrica, dando resposta à crescente procura de energia em África.
  • Globeleq – pelo crescimento do seu portfólio de energias renováveis nas áreas eólica, solar, geotérmica e de armazenamento em baterias.
  • Infinity Power – pela expansão de um dos maiores portfólios de desenvolvimento de energias renováveis de África.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Government rolls out Milestones of Freedom campaign to provinces

Source: Government of South Africa

Government rolls out Milestones of Freedom campaign to provinces

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has begun rolling out the Milestones of Freedom campaign to provinces, following its national launch by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 18 June 2026.

The campaign seeks to promote social cohesion, inspire national pride and encourage reflection on South Africa’s democratic journey by highlighting key milestones the country is commemorating this year.

These include the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution, the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Youth Uprising, the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March against pass laws, and the 60th anniversary of the forced removals from District Six.

To bring the campaign closer to communities, provincial launches are being led by the GCIS in partnership with Offices of the Premier, Departments of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sport, Arts and Culture, as well as local municipalities.

The first provincial launch took place in Sharpeville, Gauteng, on 26 July 2026, where GCIS, together with provincial government structures, hosted a memorial lecture marking the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s Constitution.

The venue was selected for its historical significance as a site of memory and reflection in a community that bears the scars of the struggle against apartheid.

The campaign rollout will continue throughout the year until February 2027, with provincial launches scheduled across the country during August.

For August 2025, the launch schedule is as follows: 
06 August: KwaZulu-Natal, Ilembe District Municipality, 
06 August:  Northern Cape, John Taolo Gaetsewe District
10 August:  Free State, Mangaung Metro
11 August:  Eastern Cape, Kouga Local Municipality
11-12 August: Western Cape, City of Cape Town 
14 August:  Mpumalanga, Gert Sibande District
26 August:  Limpopo, Capricorn District, Polokwane
27 August:  North-West – Dr Kenneth Kaunda Municipality

A detailed schedule of provincial launch events is available on the government website: https://www.gov.za/event-category/commemorative-events with GCIS expected to issue media advisories containing further details on each provincial launch. 

“Government encourages communities to participate in Milestones of Freedom activities as an opportunity to deepen their understanding of South Africa’s shared history and strengthen their appreciation of the country’s journey to democracy,” the GCIS said in a statement. 

More information on future Milestones of Freedom events is available on the government website: www.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za  

 

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Angola Steps Up its Strategy to Eradicate Polio

Source: APO – Report:

Following two national polio vaccination campaigns and two campaigns carried out in coordination with the Republic of Namibia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in border areas, which enabled more than nine million children under the age of five to be vaccinated, Angola is translating the lessons learned into concrete actions to strengthen immunization, reach more children, and accelerate efforts towards the eradication of polio.

This commitment was reaffirmed during the National Post-Campaign Evaluation Workshop, organized by the Ministry of Health through the National Immunization Program, with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners.

Against a backdrop in which poliomyelitis continues to pose a threat to public health worldwide, the evaluation aimed to analyze the performance of the campaigns conducted in the first half of 2026, identify best practices, understand operational challenges, and define concrete measures to strengthen future vaccination campaigns and routine immunization services.

Over the course of three days, evidence was analyzed from administrative vaccination data, independent monitoring, quality surveys (LQAS), supervision reports, epidemiological surveillance, logistics management, and social mobilization activities. The analysis identified opportunities to improve campaign quality, strengthen the use of data in decision-making, and expand the health services’ capacity to vaccinate all eligible children.

The evaluation covered all stages of the process, from micro-planning and team training to vaccine distribution, cold chain operations, field supervision, and community engagement. The findings will form the basis for measures to increase vaccination coverage, address operational gaps, and strengthen response capacity in the most remote and hard-to-reach areas.

The workshop also highlighted the importance of strengthening surveillance for Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) and environmental surveillance. These systems are essential for the early detection of any potential poliovirus circulation. Strengthening these mechanisms remains a priority to safeguard the progress made and ensure a rapid response to any public health risks.

Strengthening routine vaccination was another key topic of discussion. Participants examined strategies to identify and vaccinate unvaccinated or under-immunized children, improve the management of vaccines and consumables, and expand access to immunization services across all provinces. These measures are essential to reduce the number of ‘zero-dose’ children and ensure more equitable protection for all families.

According to the national coordinator of the Expanded Program on Immunization, Dr. Alda de Morais, the evaluation provides a strategic opportunity to bring together key stakeholders in the immunization program, analyze concrete data, and identify actions to contribute to the sustainable strengthening of vaccination services.

“The findings of this evaluation will enable us to improve the quality of future campaigns and routine vaccination. We are committed to ensuring that no child is left unvaccinated and that the gains achieved by the country are protected and expanded, to eradicate polio and provide a better future for our children.”

The program coordinator for the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in Angola, Dr. Nirakar Panda, emphasized that the success of the disease’s eradication depends on the ability to translate knowledge and evidence into concrete actions. To this end, he advocated improving the quality and timing of vaccination campaigns, with particular attention to children who have not yet received any doses, as well as strengthening cross-border coordination with neighboring countries, improving surveillance systems and data verification mechanisms, promoting the local recruitment of vaccination teams to maximize coverage, and enhancing micro-planning based on up-to-date and harmonized population data.

“The eradication of polio requires much more than successful vaccination campaigns. It is necessary to learn continuously, use data strategically, and translate evidence into concrete action. This workshop, therefore, demonstrates Angola’s commitment to strengthening its immunization program and ensuring that all children are protected against diseases that can be prevented through vaccination,” he said.

As a result of this workshop, a national action plan will be developed, outlining priority recommendations, defined responsibilities, implementation deadlines, and monitoring mechanisms to track implementation of the agreed measures. The aim is to ensure that the lessons learned translate into concrete improvements in the quality of vaccination campaigns, epidemiological surveillance, and the overall performance of the immunization program.

The workshop brought together representatives from the National Immunization Program, the Provincial Health Directorates, reference laboratories, the WHO, UNICEF, SOLINA, AFENET, World Vision, and other partner organizations, facilitating a joint analysis of the results and reinforcing the collective commitment to accelerate efforts to eradicate polio in Angola.

By turning evidence into action and knowledge into concrete improvements, Angola is strengthening its capacity to protect lives, bolstering health services, and moving confidently towards a polio-free future.

– on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

Media files

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Ghana: World Health Organization (WHO) Ghana Supports Ghana’s Blood Bank Through Staff Blood Donation Exercise

Source: APO – Report:

Blood donation is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to save lives. Every unit of blood can help patients undergoing surgery, women experiencing complications during childbirth, accident victims, children with severe anaemia, and others in urgent need of transfusions. 

Ghana National Blood Service has made good progress in coordinating the scale up of blood donations. In 2025, 204,000 units of blood were collected nationally. While this represents the rigorous efforts of our healthcare personnel and one of the service’s strongest performance in recent years, it falls short of the World Health Organization’s recommended annual requirement of 308,000 units for the nation representing donations from 1% of the population.

As part of its commitment to supporting Ghana’s national blood supply, WHO Ghana organized a voluntary blood donation exercise for staff at the Country Office in partnership with the National Blood Service.

The initiative forms part of WHO’s broader efforts to support Ghana’s blood bank and encourage regular voluntary blood donation. By donating blood, WHO staff demonstrated that strengthening health systems goes beyond policy and technical support, it also means taking practical action that can directly save lives.

Speaking during the exercise, WHO Representative to Ghana, Dr Fiona Braka, highlighted the lifesaving impact of donating blood.

“Every blood donation is an act of compassion that can mean the difference between life and death for someone in need. We are happy to have taken part of this exercise to save lives and strengthen Ghana’s health system”.

The National Blood Service welcomed the initiative, noting that voluntary blood donors are critical to ensuring a safe and reliable blood supply for patients across the country. The blood collected during the exercise will support people in need of emergency care, surgery, childbirth-related transfusions, cancer treatment, and other lifesaving medical interventions.

For many WHO Ghana staff, donating blood was an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

“Donating blood only took a few minutes but knowing it could save someone’s life makes it one of the most meaningful things I’ve done today. I hope more people will make blood donation a regular practice because every unit of blood gives someone another chance at life”, Dr Angela Ackon, Technical Officer for Integrated Service Delivery. 

The exercise reflects WHO Ghana’s commitment to leading by example and encouraging a culture of voluntary blood donation, reminding everyone that a small act of generosity can give someone else the gift of life.

– on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

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Deputy Minister Morolong to lead an engagement with KZN province

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Minister Morolong to lead an engagement with KZN province

The Deputy Minister in The Presidency Kenny Morolong will on Wednesday lead a delegation from the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) during an engagement with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Executive Council.

The engagement will focus on the coordination of government communication, nation branding and community media support in the province.

Also accompanying the Deputy Minister will be the delegation from the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) and Brand South Africa (Brand SA).

“The engagement forms part of government’s ongoing communication policy advocacy programme aimed at enhancing a coordinated and integrated government communication system across all spheres of government,” the Presidency said in a statement.

According to the Presidency, the engagement follows a similar session held in the North West, the Free State and recently Mpumalanga as part of a nationwide rollout intended to strengthen communication planning, promote a cohesive national narrative, support community media, and advance South Africa’s nation-branding objectives. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin

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Sénatrice Dr. Rasha Kelej et la Première Dame du Kenya, S.E Madame Rachel Ruto, E.G.H., inspirent des écolières kényanes à la Résidence Présidentielle lors du Lancement du Programme « Éduquer Linda

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

  • La Fondation Merck a nommé la Première Dame du Kenya Ambassadrice du programme « Plus Qu’une Mère » afin de renforcer les capacités du système de santé, de lutter contre la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité et de soutenir l’éducation des filles.

La Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, a officiellement lancé son programme « Éduquer Linda » au Kenya, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Kenya et Ambassadrice du programme « Plus Qu’une Mère » de la Fondation Merck, à la Résidence de l’État du Kenya. Le programme était présidé par le Chairman du Conseil d’Administration de la Fondation Merck, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, la CEO de la Fondation Merck, Dr. Rasha Kelej, et la Première Dame du Kenya, S.E. Mme RACHEL RUTO E.G.H..

Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO de la Fondation Merck et Présidente de la campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère », a déclaré : « Je suis très heureuse de rencontrer ma chère sœur, S.E. Mme RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., Première Dame du Kenya et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère », et de lancer officiellement notre programme « Éduquer Linda » au Kenya, destiné à soutenir l’éducation des filles.

Dans le cadre de ce programme « Éduquer Linda », nous offrons chaque année des bourses d’études à 47 écolières kényanes méritantes, brillantes et issues de milieux défavorisés, jusqu’à la fin de leurs études. Cela leur permettra de ne pas être contraintes d’abandonner leurs études pour des raisons financières. Nous sommes convaincus qu’une fille instruite transforme toute sa communauté. »

S.E. Mme RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., Première Dame du Kenya et Ambassadrice de la « Fondation Merck Plus Qu’une Mère », a déclaré : « J’apprécie profondément tous les programmes de la Fondation Merck, notamment le programme « Éduquer Linda », grâce auquel nous octroyons chaque année des bourses à 47 écolières méritantes afin de soutenir leurs études jusqu’à l’obtention de leur diplôme. Nous sommes convaincus que chaque fille au Kenya, et dans toute l’Afrique, mérite de pouvoir réaliser ses rêves. Il est impératif de lever tous les obstacles qui empêchent une fille d’aller à l’école, et ce programme est un moyen efficace d’y parvenir. Je suis persuadée que ces jeunes filles atteindront leur plein potentiel et deviendront une source d’inspiration pour beaucoup d’autres. »

Au cours de cet événement, le Chairman et la CEO de la Fondation Merck, accompagné de la Première Dame du Kenya, a rencontré et encouragé les écolières kényanes bénéficiaires du programme « Éduquer Linda », et a pu entendre directement leurs témoignages et ceux de leurs parents sur l’impact positif de ces bourses sur leur vie.

Le programme « Éduquer Linda » de la Fondation Merck, en partenariat avec les Premières Dames Africaines, octroie chaque année des bourses d’études à plus de 1 250 écolières dans 21 pays africains, dont le Botswana, Burundi, Cap-Vert, République Centrafricaine, République Démocratique du Congo, Gabon, Gambie, Ghana, Kenya, Libéria, Malawi, l’île Maurice, Namibie, Nigéria, Sao Tomé-et-Principe, Tanzanie, Togo, Zambie et Zimbabwe. Ce programme garantit également à des milliers d’écolières à travers l’Afrique l’accès aux fournitures scolaires essentielles, levant ainsi d’autres obstacles pratiques à leur éducation.

« L’éducation des filles est un atout pour toute une nation. Les filles instruites deviennent des femmes autonomes qui contribuent à la prospérité, renforcent les familles et font progresser les nations. C’est la vision qui sous-tend toutes nos actions : l’éducation des filles aujourd’hui pour l’autonomisation des femmes demain », a déclaré le Dr. Kelej.

La Fondation Merck a également octroyé 328 bourses d’études à des professionnels de santé kenyans dans 44 spécialités essentielles et sous-dotées. Parmi les spécialités représentées figuraient le Diabète, Médecine Cardiovasculaire Préventive, Cardiologie, Endocrinologie, Oncologie, Fertilité, Embryologie, Médecine Sexuelle et Reproductive, Gastro-Entérologie, Psychiatrie, Neurologie et bien d’autres. Lors de cette visite, la Fondation Merck a également organisé son Sommet des Anciens Boursiers 2026 afin de rencontrer et de saluer ses anciens boursiers. De plus, elle a rencontré et honoré les lauréats des Prix de la Fondation Merck de 2024 et 2025.

La Fondation Merck, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Kenya, lance également des livres pour enfants : « Plus Qu’une Mère », « Éduquer Linda », « Le Secours de Jackline », « Pas qui vous êtes », « Une balade vers le futur », « Jude Sans Sucre » et « La Tension de Mark ». Ces livres abordent des problématiques sociales et sanitaires cruciales et seront disponibles en anglais et en swahili. Des milliers d’exemplaires seront distribués aux écoliers du Kenya.

La Fondation Merck et la Première Dame du Kenya décernent également chaque année huit prix prestigieux récompensant les meilleurs contenus médiatiques, films, créations de mode et chansons. Elles ont par ailleurs organisé plusieurs éditions du Programme de formation aux médias de santé de la Fondation Merck, permettant aux journalistes kenyans de donner la parole aux personnes marginalisées et de traiter de manière responsable et efficace des sujets sensibles tels que l’infertilité, le mariage d’enfants, les violences sexistes, le diabète et l’hypertension.

Détails des Prix :

1. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias Africains de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : les représentants des médias et les étudiants en journalisme sont invités à présenter leur travail pour sensibiliser l’opinion à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

2. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 :  tous les cinéastes africains, étudiants des établissements de formation en réalisation cinématographique ou jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un long ou un court métrage, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame, pour transmettre des messages forts et influents sur un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

3. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour transmettre des messages forts et influents afin de sensibiliser à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

4. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but d’aborder un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

5. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : les représentants des médias sont invités à présenter leur travail à travers des messages forts et influents pour promouvoir un mode de vie sain et sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

6. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les cinéastes africains, étudiants des établissements de formation en réalisation cinématographique ou jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un long ou un court FILMS, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame, pour délivrer des messages forts et influents visant à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

7. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour transmettre des messages forts et influents visant à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

8. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but de promouvoir un mode de vie sain et de sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

Postulez ici : https://apo-opa.co/4xcon0k

Les candidatures pour tous les prix doivent être soumises par courrier électronique à : submit@merck-foundation.com

  • La Fondation Merck a nommé la Première Dame du Kenya Ambassadrice du programme « Plus Qu’une Mère » afin de renforcer les capacités du système de santé, de lutter contre la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité et de soutenir l’éducation des filles.

Distribué par APO Group pour Merck Foundation.

Contact :
Mehak Handa
Responsable du programme de sensibilisation communautaire
Téléphone : +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
E-mail : mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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À propos de la Fondation Merck :
La Fondation Merck, créée en 2017, est la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, vise à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des populations et à faire progresser leur vie grâce à la science et à la technologie. Nos efforts sont principalement axés sur l’amélioration de l’accès à des solutions de soins de santé de qualité et équitables dans les communautés mal desservies, à renforcer les capacités de recherche sur les soins de santé et la recherche scientifique, l’autonomisation des filles à travers l’éducation et l’autonomisation des personnes en STEM (Science, Technologie, Ingénierie et Mathématiques) avec un accent particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes. Tous les communiqués de presse de la Fondation Merck sont distribués par e-mail en même temps qu’ils deviennent disponibles sur le site Web de la Fondation Merck. Veuillez visiter www.Merck-Foundation.com pour en savoir plus. Pour en savoir plus, contactez nos réseaux sociaux de la Fondation Merck : Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4g5BScw), X (https://apo-opa.co/4bqlLUd),Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4xco0Ts), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4wxKL4p), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4ySabLy) et Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3TL8teX).

La Fondation Merck se consacre à l’amélioration des résultats sociaux et sanitaires pour les communautés dans le besoin. Bien qu’elle collabore avec divers partenaires, y compris des gouvernements, pour atteindre ses objectifs humanitaires, la fondation reste strictement neutre sur le plan politique. Elle ne s’engage pas et ne soutient pas d’activités, d’élections ou de régimes politiques, se focalise uniquement sur sa mission d’élever l’humanité et d’améliorer le bien-être tout en maintenant une position strictement apolitique dans toutes ses activités.

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