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“A Time to Pause and Begin Again”: President Dr Patrick Herminie reflects in Easter message

Source: APO – Report:

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On the occasion of Easter, the President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, shares his message with Seychellois at home and abroad as they mark this moment in the Christian calendar.

The President notes that Easter is a time of reflection and renewal, inviting individuals and families to pause and consider what truly matters and reconnect with the values that guide everyday life.

Reflecting on the Easter message delivered by the Pope Leo, President Herminie highlighted the continued call for peace and restraint in a world facing tension and conflict. He noted that this message resonates beyond borders and speaks to the need for a more measured and humane response to the challenges of our time.

He further highlighted that for Seychelles; this message carries particular relevance. Within our communities, Easter is observed through family gatherings and quiet reflection. It is also a moment to look inward, and to consider how we relate to one another in our daily lives.

President Herminie emphasised that the meaning of Easter lies in renewal. Even in periods of difficulty, it reminds us that there is always a path forward, shaped through steady effort and through the choices made each day.

He further noted that as a nation, Seychelles continues to move forward with a shared sense of responsibility. While challenges remain, our progress depends on how we respond, with purpose, clarity and unity

The President expressed his hope that this Easter will bring calm to homes across the country, and a renewed sense of strength for the days ahead.

He concluded by wishing all Seychellois a meaningful Easter.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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President Dr. Patrick Herminie Pays Tribute to the Late Seychellois Artist David Philoe

Source: APO – Report:

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It is with deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss that I have learned of the passing of our beloved compatriot and friend, Mr. David Philoe, a gifted artist and a cherished son of Seychelles, whose voice and music resonated deeply within the heart of our nation.

On behalf of the Government and the people of Seychelles, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A true patriot, Mr. Philoe held an unwavering love for his country. Through his music, he brought joy to our people and made a lasting contribution to our cultural heritage. His talent, passion, and dedication to music will be remembered with great admiration and respect.

As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind, one that will continue to inspire generations to come.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Ghana identifies priority areas to strengthen cholera prevention and control

Source: APO – Report:

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Ghana has taken a major step toward preventing and controlling cholera by identifying high-risk districts for targeted, multi-sectoral interventions. With technical support from the World Health Organization and funding from Global Task Force on Cholera Control (GTFCC), the country conducted a Priority Areas for Multi-sectoral Interventions (PAMI) exercise in March 2026, aligned with the GTFCC Roadmap to End Cholera.

The exercise brought together stakeholders from health, water and sanitation, environment, local government, the statistical service, the meteorological agency, civil society, and partners under the leadership of the Ministry of Health Ghana and the Ghana Health Service. Using the district as the unit of analysis, the team reviewed cholera epidemiological data and risk factors over a five-year period (2020–2025).

Applying the GTFCC PAMI tool, districts were assessed based on disease burden, mortality, transmission patterns, and laboratory confirmation. Following data validation, stakeholders agreed on a threshold that, if targeted with interventions, could help avert up to 98% of cholera cases and 100% of deaths nationwide.

Out of Ghana’s 261 districts, 93 were identified as priority areas for multi-sectoral interventions. These findings provide a strong evidence base for the development of Ghana’s National Cholera Control Plan, which will focus on cost-effective measures including enhanced surveillance, health system strengthening, deployment of oral cholera vaccines, and improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in high-risk districts.

Beyond the data, the exercise strengthened collaboration and collective ownership among stakeholders. Mr Jonathan Akwabeng-Manu of the Environmental Health and Sanitation Directorate highlighted the importance of coordinated action, “The PAMI initiative is a valuable approach because it brings together key stakeholders from multiple sectors to coordinate efforts. Through this engagement, we have also shared planned interventions to strengthen cholera prevention and control”.

Dr Fred Kapaya, from the WHO Nairobi Emergency Hub, commended the process. “The dedication and collaboration demonstrated in building consensus during the PAMI exercise have been impressive. We look forward to continued collaboration with Ghana, particularly in developing the National Cholera Control Plan”, he said.

Ghana’s commitment to preventing and controlling cholera reflects strong national leadership and alignment with global efforts to end cholera as a public health threat. The identification of priority districts marks a critical step toward achieving this goal.

– on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO), Ghana.

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Ghana advances health security with completion of National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) prioritisation workshop

Source: APO – Report:

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Ghana has taken a major step forward in strengthening its health security with the completion of its National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) Prioritisation Workshop. The exercise, led by the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service in collaboration with other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, was supported by the UK Government through the Tackling Deadly Diseases in Africa Programme Phase 2 (TDDAP 2), implemented by Palladium and its consortium partner IDI, with technical support from WHO.

The NAPHS provides a comprehensive roadmap for improving Ghana’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats, covering critical interventions from laboratory strengthening to border health. By prioritising actions, the country ensures that resources are directed to areas that will have the greatest impact on public health.

Speaking at the workshop Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of the Public Health Division, Ghana Health Service highlitghted the importance of the workshop.

“Prioritisation is not just a process. it’s about making sure that every intervention we invest in has the maximum impact on protecting lives. This workshop has enabled us to identify key actions, backed by data and consensus, which will guide both national and partner investments in health security”, he said. 

The workshop introduced simple, intuitive tools that helped multi-sectoral stakeholders navigate complex decisions, weighing impact against feasibility. Every prioritised action is now part of a guiding document that partners can use to align their programmes with national objectives.

Dr. Fiona Braka, WHO Representative to Ghana, highlighted the significance of the exercise for building resilient health systems. “Ghana’s NAPHS prioritisation ensures that we are not only ready to respond to current health threats but are also building a stronger, more resilient health system that can protect communities across the country”, she said.

Dominic Farrell, UKFCDO representative added, “The UK is proud to support Ghana in strengthening health security. This prioritisation workshop ensures that investments are targeted, evidence-based, and focused on saving lives”.

The next steps include updating strategic actions by Technical Area Teams, submission of consolidated plans to the IHR National Focal Point, application of a costing tool, validation of costed activities, and finalisation of the NAPHS document ahead of its official launch.

With the completion of this workshop, Ghana has strengthened its preparedness against public health threats, ensuring that future interventions are guided by data, consensus, and a clear roadmap for impact.

– on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO), Ghana.

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Pan African Visions (PAV) Explores Africa’s Energy Power Play with NJ Ayuk In High-Impact April 2026 Edition

Source: APO

Pan African Visions (PAV) (http://PanAfricanVisions.com) continues its powerful, thematic editorial run with the release of its April 2026 Magazine (Edition 86, Vol. VIII)—a compelling, investment-focused issue anchored by a defining cover feature with NJ Ayuk.

Building on a deliberate 2026 editorial trajectory that captures Africa’s most consequential sectors, this energy edition arrives at a pivotal moment—when the continent is asserting itself at the center of global conversations on energy security, industrialization, and climate strategy.

A Year of Thematic Storytelling: Tracking Africa’s Transformation

Each 2026 edition of PAV Magazine has been aligned with major continental and global developments:

– January: Politics and leadership, featuring an exclusive with former Malawi President Peter Mutharika on his first 100 days

– February: The diamond economy, spotlighting the Diamond Doctrine of Dr. M’zée Fula Ngengé

– March: Sports business and culture with a preview of BAL Season 6 featuring Amadou Gallo Fall

– April: Energy and power, led by NJ Ayuk

– Coming Next: A deep dive into Africa’s rapidly expanding multi-billion-dollar fintech ecosystem

Together, these editions form a coherent, forward-looking narrative of Africa’s rise across power, capital, and innovation.

Cover Feature: NJ Ayuk and Africa’s Energy Power Play

There is a defining urgency in how NJ Ayuk frames Africa’s energy future—not one of scarcity, but of transformational opportunity.

Across the continent, momentum is unmistakable: new discoveries lighting up frontier basins, billion-dollar investments reshaping production, and governments reclaiming control over their natural resources. From Lagos to Luanda, Dakar to Dar es Salaam, and Windhoek to Kampala—the narrative is shifting decisively from promise to power.

As a leading advocate for Africa-first energy policies, Ayuk champions investment-driven development, local content, equity, and African participation while advancing bold energy diplomacy and cooperation.

In the wide-ranging interview for the April edition of PAV, Ayuk delivers a clear-eyed, strategic vision for an Africa that finances, refines, and defines its own energy future.

Inside the April Edition: Big Stories, Real Stakes

– Bassirou Diomaye Faye vs. Ousmane Sonko — Inside Senegal’s New Power Rift

– Zambia: Bishop Trevor Mwamba on the Opposition Card

– Sierra Leone: Powering a New Energy Era

– Florie Liser on the U.S.-Africa Business Summit

– BEAC Flags Digital Payment Tax in CEMAC

– Premier Invest & Africa’s Response to Global Shocks

A Platform for Influence, Investment, and Opportunity

With its growing global readership and trusted voice, Pan African Visions continues to serve as a gateway for investors, a platform for governments and institutions, and a strategic partner for brands engaging Africa’s growth story.

Read the Full April 2026 Edition:

https://apo-opa.co/4mejxeQ

Pan African Visions also publishes daily news, analysis, and insights at:

http://PanAfricanVisions.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Pan African Visions.

Media Inquiries, Partnerships & Advertising Opportunities:
Email: pav@panafricanvisions.com
Phone: +1 240 429 2177

About Pan African Visions:
Pan African Visions is a leading pan-African media platform delivering authoritative insights across energy, business, policy, and development—connecting Africa’s opportunities to global capital, partnerships, and ideas.

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Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meets Chinese Ambassador

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | April 3, 2026

His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, met today with His Excellency Mr. Cao Xiaolin, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the State.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed developments related to the ongoing military escalation in the region and its serious repercussions for regional and international security and stability, including the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the repeated attacks on commercial shipping.

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Qatar Participates in Ministerial Meeting on Developments Related to Strait of Hormuz

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, April 02, 2026

The State of Qatar participated in a ministerial meeting on developments related to the Strait of Hormuz, held on Thursday via videoconference at the invitation of the United Kingdom’s Foreign Office.
Qatar was represented at the meeting by HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, who stressed in his remarks that the security of the Strait of Hormuz is an international issue, given its close link to global energy security and the safety of international supply chains. He underscored the importance of reaching consensus on a comprehensive security framework that ensures freedom of navigation through the Strait and preserves regional stability.
His Excellency also reaffirmed Qatar’s firm commitment to its role as a reliable partner in supporting maritime security and its continued contribution to the stability of international markets. He strongly condemned Iranian threats to close the Strait, as well as unjustified attacks on shipping.
His Excellency described such actions as a grave and explicit violation of international law, a direct threat to international peace and security, and a serious risk to global maritime security and energy security. He emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is a vital international waterway that must not, under any circumstances, be subjected to faits accomplis or used as a tool of coercion or political pressure by any party.
He further stressed the need to address the future of the Strait of Hormuz within a collective framework that includes all countries of the region. He welcomed the efforts of the Gulf Cooperation Council to develop joint solutions to challenges related to the Strait, and emphasized that GCC states must be a key part of any relevant regional arrangements or agreements.

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Qatar Sends Its Eleventh Identical Message to the United Nations and the Security Council Regarding Developments in the Iranian Attack on Its Territory

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, April 02, 2026

The State of Qatar has sent Its Eleventh identical letter to HE Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres, and HE Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of April, Jamal Fares Alrowaiei, regarding the latest developments of the Iranian attack on its territories.
This attack constitutes a blatant violation of its national sovereignty, a direct threat to its security and territorial integrity, and an unacceptable escalation that threatens the security and stability of the region.
The letter was sent by HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani.
The letter noted Qatar’s Ministry of Defense’s announcement that the country was subjected to attacks by a number of drones from the Islamic Republic of Iran on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, March 28, 29 and 30, 2026, which Qatar’s Armed Forces successfully intercepted, and to the targeting by three cruise missiles on Wednesday, April 1, which Qatar’s Armed Forces managed to successfully intercept two of them, while the third hit an oil tanker leased to Qatar Energy in the economic waters of the State of Qatar. The letter noted that the necessary measures were taken, and coordination was made with the concerned authorities to evacuate the tanker, whose crew numbered 21 people, without any human losses being recorded.
In this regard, the letter highlighted that QatarEnergy confirmed that the tanker “Aqua 1,” a fuel oil tanker chartered by QatarEnergy, was targeted by a missile attack on Wednesday, and that none of the tanker’s crew members were harmed, and that this attack did not result in any environmental effects, noting that this attack was carried out by the Islamic Republic of Iran even after the Security Council adopted Resolution No. 2817 (2026), which condemned in the strongest terms the heinous attacks launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran against the State of Qatar and neighboring countries, and demanded an immediate end to all such attacks.
The State of Qatar also reiterated that this attack constitutes a violation of Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), and once again urged the Security Council to assume its responsibilities in maintaining international peace and security and to take the necessary measures to stop these serious violations and deter their perpetrators.
The letter emphasized that the targets of the attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran are purely civilian in nature, and that targeting them constitutes a blatant violation by Iran of the 1949 Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, and of the principles of international humanitarian law, specifically the principle of distinction, the prohibition of targeting civilians and civilian objects in armed conflicts, the prohibition of indiscriminate attacks, the principle of proportionality, and the obligation to take due precautions to avoid civilian targets.
The letter stressed that these illegal actions by the Islamic Republic of Iran entail international responsibility, making it obligated, as the case may be, to provide compensation for all damages incurred by the State of Qatar as a result of these actions. All damages and losses resulting from the attacks will be assessed by the competent authorities. Qatar will keep the UN and the UN Security Council informed of developments.
The letter emphasized that the State of Qatar reserves its right to respond in accordance with Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations and the right to self-defense guaranteed by international law, stressing that Qatar will not hesitate to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security, and the safety of its citizens and residents on its territory.
The State of Qatar also requested that this letter be circulated as an official document of the Security Council. 

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Fuelling dignity, one refill at a time

Source: Government of South Africa

Fuelling dignity, one refill at a time

By Sihle Manda

In the villages and busy taxi ranks of Rustenburg, North West, blue LPG cylinders are becoming unlikely symbols of dignity and safety.

At the centre of this quiet energy shift is Refilwe Sebothoma, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Hakem Energies, a self-funded enterprise determined to tackle energy poverty while building opportunity from the ground up.

“I am very passionate about entrepreneurship because I believe it is a powerful tool that can help me empower people. Throughout the years, we have done a lot of things in different industries.”

Ending energy poverty 

Her move into the energy sector was driven by concern about what she calls “energy poverty”.

“In marginalised communities such as townships and villages, you still find people without electricity,” she explains.

“And for those who do have electricity, it is expensive and they experience things such as load shedding. Some villages can go for weeks without electricity. 

They then have to collect wood, while others resort to using paraffin and coal. There are a lot of dangers associated with energy poverty – and it mostly affects women.”

One incident cemented her resolve.

“In one of the villages where we sell gas, a woman was recently brutally raped and killed while she was collecting wood in the field. From a business perspective, it still shouldn’t be happening that people have to risk their lives. That is how this business was started. LPG for us was a solution that is already available, but we needed to package it in a way that low-earning communities can afford.”

Registered in 2022 and operational from 2024, Hakem Energies has built its model around flexibility.

“One of the biggest things for us is that customers can refill as they can afford. If you go to a fuel station to fill a 9kg cylinder, it will cost you about R400 and it is not something that our communities can afford. With our model, you can come with whatever amount you can afford. If you can only afford R40, that is what you will refill for.”

Affordability is matched by strict compliance.

“We just want to make sure that we comply correctly because this is a highly regulated industry. It is really important that we do things safely so that we can continue to save lives.”

Hakem’s reach extends beyond households.

“We serve not only households but also a broad range of commercial clients – from restaurants and resorts to funeral parlours, taxi ranks and mining operations. Whether in bulk or bottles, we deliver safe, certified LPG energy that keeps industries moving and communities thriving.”

Partnering with women and youth

The company also partners with local women and young people to distribute LPG.

“We see every flame lit not just as energy delivered, but as possibility ignited.”

Operating from North West, with a branch in Mpumalanga and plans to expand into Limpopo and Gauteng in 2026, the business employs 14 people.

Growth has required deep pockets in a tightly regulated sector

“We have five LPG boxes and one costs about R1 million – that’s a lot of money that many small businesses cannot afford. I was able to self-fund, but it has been very difficult and the margins are extremely tight. We are also consistently fighting against illegal operators who are not paying government taxes.”

Support from the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency’s (SEDFA) Asset Assist Programme provided a R230 000 grant.

“They sat with us to analyse where the business was and the kind of support that we needed. They bought us stock – cylinders and LPG – which really shifted things for us and gave us the ability to expand and attract new customers.”

Sebothoma believes national reforms could further unlock growth.

In his 2026 State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa committed more than R2.5 billion in funding for over 180 000 SMMEs, alongside R1 billion in guarantees. He also pledged to ease regulatory hurdles through the Business Licensing Bill and amend the National Credit Act regulations to make credit more accessible and affordable, particularly for women- and youth-led enterprises.

Sebothoma welcomed the commitment, describing it as “the kind of support SMMEs were looking to receive from government,” she concluded.

For more information, call +27 (68) 037 5410 or visit www.hakemenergies.co.za.

The NYDA can be reached at www.nyda.gov.za.

For more information on SEDFA’s Assest Assist Programme, visit www.dsbd.gov.za/asset-assist-progamme.

*This article first appeared in Vukuzenzele

Janine

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Arrive Alive: road safety tips

Source: Government of South Africa

Arrive Alive: road safety tips

Traffic volumes along major corridors across the country are expected to increase as travellers return from various religious and holiday destinations.

With the majority of road crashes attributed to human behaviour, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy has urged drivers, passengers and pedestrians to take responsibility for their conduct on shared roads.

Government continues to implement the 365 Days Arrive Alive Road Safety Campaign throughout the year, aimed at reducing road accidents and fatalities.

“Our mandate is clear: to ensure that every South African who sets out on a journey returns home safely. We are calling on every driver, passenger and pedestrian to take ownership of their conduct on our shared roads,” Creecy said.

She emphasised that law enforcement during this period will be uncompromising.

Should you find yourself in an emergency, call:

  • Police: 10111
  • Ambulance: 10177
  • Emergency: 112
  • ER24: 084 124
  • Netcare: 082 911
  • Report bad driving by using the National Traffic Call Centre Number: 0861 400 800. 

Road users are therefore encouraged to follow these safety tips:

  • Make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before departure.
  • Take safety breaks every 2 hours or 200km.
  • Be responsible for seatbelt wearing – always wear a seat belt and see that everyone in the car is wearing theirs.
  • Obey the rules of the road and carry your driver’s licence with you.
  • Be extra cautious, paying attention to the signals and brake lights of other vehicles, especially trucks.
  • Carry a fully charged cell phone with you so you can request assistance in the event of an emergency.
  • Always adjust your driving to the driving conditions and environment.
  • If it is raining, turn your headlights and windscreen wipers on. Try to reduce speed and try not to brake suddenly. Often, there is oil and petrol on the road, which can cause you to skid out of control.
  • Always keep in mind – if you cannot see or operate the vehicle safely, you should not be driving.
  • Inspect your vehicle and trailer tyres, lights, tow connections, brakes, batteries, and fluid levels. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

nosihle

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