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Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Egyptian Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, July 25, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met today with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Dr. Badr Abdelatty who is visiting Doha.

Discussions during the meeting focused on bilateral relations and ways to support and strengthen them, in addition to the latest regional developments, particularly the diplomatic efforts and joint coordination to de-escalate tensions and enhance security and stability in the region.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed the need for all parties to commit to dialogue and diplomacy, and to implement what was agreed upon within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran, including ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, to maintain regional security, preserve the gains achieved, and enhance regional stability.
His Excellency reiterated the State of Qatar’s full support for all efforts aimed at defusing tensions and reaching a comprehensive agreement that achieves lasting peace in the region. 

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Ebola: In Mongbwalu, Force commander reaffirms United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) commitment to secure health facilities

Source: APO

The Force Commander of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), Lieutenant General Ulisses De Mesquita Gomes, travelled to Mongbwalu, epicenter of the Ebola outbreak in Djugu Territory, on 22 July to assess operations aimed at protecting civilians, support the peacekeepers deployed in the area and reaffirm the Mission’s commitment alongside the Congolese authorities.

The visit took place against a backdrop of persistent threats from armed groups in several parts of Ituri and the ongoing response to the Ebola virus disease outbreak. In Mongbwalu, Nepalese peacekeepers maintain an operational presence aimed at reassuring communities and contributing to securing health infrastructures in the area.

Accompanied by the Commander of the Northern Sector, Brigadier General Md. Saiful Alam Bhuiyan, and the Commander of the Nepalese contingent, Colonel Deepak Khadka, the Force Commander met with the troops and reviewed activities conducted from MONUSCO’s mobile operating base.

Close to the Operations

Upon arrival, the delegation was welcomed by the Commander of the Mongbwalu base, Major Gangadhar Khatri Chhetri. He provided an overview of the security situation in the area of operations and of the main activities undertaken by peacekeepers to protect civilians and maintain a deterrent presence in areas exposed to threats from armed groups.

The preparatory briefing also covered developments related to the Ebola outbreak and the preventive measures implemented by the Nepalese contingent in support of the health authorities’ response efforts.

The Force Commander then observed several operational activities carried out under the Mission’s protection of civilians mandate. These activities are intended, in particular, to strengthen community security, improve situational awareness on the ground and enable a rapid response in the event of a threat.

The Protection of health facilities at the centre of discussions

The response to the Ebola outbreak also featured prominently in discussions with provincial authorities and military officials in Mongbwalu.

In areas affected by insecurity, attacks against health facilities, population displacement and restrictions on movement can undermine patient monitoring, community awareness activities and access to healthcare. For the Mission, security therefore remains an essential condition for an effective public health response.

Peacekeepers’ professionalism commended

Addressing the troops deployed in Mongbwalu, Lieutenant General Ulisses De Mesquita Gomes commended their professionalism, discipline and commitment to serving the population.

“I would like to congratulate the Nepalese peacekeepers on their operational performance, professionalism and commitment to implementing MONUSCO’s mandate for the benefit of the people of this region,” he said.

He encouraged them to continue working closely with local authorities, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), humanitarian actors and community representatives.

According to the Force Commander, such coordination is essential to consolidate security gains, improve the protection of civilians and support efforts to address humanitarian and public health challenges.

Close cooperation with the FARDC

Prior to his visit to Mongbwalu, the Force Commander met in Bunia with Ituri’s new Military Governor, Lieutenant General Gaby Kasongo, as part of his first official visit since assuming office.

During the meeting, the two officials discussed the security situation in the province, joint operations conducted by the FARDC and MONUSCO, and ways to further strengthen cooperation.

“I reaffirmed the excellent cooperation between the FARDC and MONUSCO in support of peace, security and the protection of civilians in Ituri,” Lieutenant General De Mesquita Gomes said.

The discussions also covered logistical support, training and capacity-building for Congolese military personnel.

A Visit to a province under pressure

The Force Commander arrived in Bunia on 20 July and is expected to conclude his mission in the province on 24 July. His visit comes as several territories in Ituri continue to face armed-group activity and the humanitarian consequences of violence.

On 22 July, suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) combatants carried out an attack in the villages of Mandeite and Ndiapanda, in Mambasa Territory. According to local sources, around 15 civilians were reportedly killed and many residents fled the area, bringing socioeconomic activities to a halt.

Following the attack, MONUSCO peacekeepers based in Sayo, near Beni, deployed to support security patrols conducted with the defence forces and contribute to the protection of affected communities.

Against this backdrop, the Force Commander’s visit to Mongbwalu reaffirms MONUSCO’s determination to maintain an operational presence close to the population, support troops deployed on the ground and continue working with the Congolese authorities to address the security and public health challenges facing Ituri.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

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Baboua : L’Unité d’Exécution du Programme National de Désarmement, Démobilisation, Réintégration et Rapatriement (UEPNDDRR) lance une opération de désarmement et de démobilisation avec l’appui de la Mission multidimensionnelle intégrée des Nations Unies pour la stabilisation en République centrafricaine (MINUSCA)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

L’Unité d’Exécution du Programme National de Désarmement, Démobilisation, Réintégration et Rapatriement (UEPNDDRR) a lancé, le 24 juillet 2026, une opération de désarmement et de démobilisation de combattants du mouvement Retour, Réclamation et Réhabilitation (3R) dans la localité de Besson, située à environ 160 km de Bouar, dans la sous-préfecture de Baboua.​

Cette opération, menée avec l’appui multiforme de la MINUSCA, s’inscrit dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre de l’Accord politique pour la paix et la réconciliation et constitue une étape importante vers le retour d’une paix durable en République centrafricaine.​

Pour cette première journée, 30 combattants ont été pris en charge à Besson. « Nous nous sommes personnellement impliqués pour sensibiliser les jeunes à rejoindre le chemin de la paix. Nous remercions les plus hautes autorités du pays pour leur politique de la main tendue et saluons l’appui de la MINUSCA pour le retour de la paix en République centrafricaine », a déclaré le Sultan-Maire de Besson, Amadou Bi Farikou.​

Le coordonnateur politique du mouvement 3R, Yaya Adamou, a rappelé qu’« aucun développement n’est possible sans la paix » et a invité les groupes armés qui n’ont pas encore rejoint le processus à saisir la main tendue par les autorités nationales.

Cette opération de désarmement et de démobilisation se poursuivra dans les prochains jours à Péhouri, une localité située à environ 120 km de Bouar, dans la sous-préfecture de Baboua.En accompagnant le Programme national DDR, la MINUSCA réaffirme son engagement aux côtés du Gouvernement centrafricain pour promouvoir la paix, renforcer la sécurité et favoriser la réintégration durable des ex-combattants.

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

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Amélioration de la productivité agricole au Bénin : Le projet Food Systems pour apporter une solution durable à la dégradation des terres

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La majorité des sols agraires au Bénin est de plus en plus pauvre, entraînant les faibles productivités agricoles. Le projet des Systèmes alimentaires durables pour une plus grande résilience et une sécurité alimentaire et nutritionnelle au Bénin, dont le Ministre de l’Agriculture, de l’Élevage et de la Pêche, a procédé au lancement officiel des travaux, ce vendredi 24 juillet 2026 à Bénin Royal Hôtel à Cotonou, est conçu pour apporter une solution durable à cette plaie qui ronge l’agriculture béninoise. 

Un sol pauvre entraîne une agriculture de faible rendement, créant un cercle vicieux de précarité pour les producteurs, a expliqué le Ministre de l’Agriculture, de l’Élevage et de la Pêche, Monsieur Adin Yeton BLOUKOUNON GOUBALAN, au lancement du projet. Au Bénin, une enquête de 2019 a révélé que plus de 5 millions de personnes, soit environ 40% de la population nationale, étaient exposées à la dégradation des terres, et près de 38% de la superficie totale était classée comme dégradée. Cette dégradation affecte gravement les moyens de subsistance des populations, les privant d’accès à des services écosystémiques essentiels comme l’alimentation et l’eau, accroissant ainsi le risque de pauvreté. Le Ministre a ajouté que la dégradation des sols réduit d’au moins 50% les rendements des productions agricoles au Bénin. 

Il y a urgence. En ce sens que l’agriculture est l’un des principaux piliers de l’économie béninoise. Elle contribue en moyenne à 26% à la formation du Produit intérieur brut, à près de 80 % aux recettes d’exportation, génère environ 70% des emplois. Le maïs et le riz sont deux cultures vivrières majoritaires consommées au Bénin, en milieu rural comme urbain. Des constats qui ont amené le Gouvernement du Bénin, appuyé par l’organisation des Nations Unies pour l’alimentation et l’agriculture (FAO) et le Fonds pour l’Environnement Mondial (FEM) à concevoir le projet de Systèmes alimentaires durables pour une plus grande résilience et une sécurité alimentaire et nutritionnelle au Bénin. 

Encore appelé Food Systems, ce projet a été conçu dans le but d’améliorer les politiques, la production et les marchés afin d’accélérer la transformation des chaînes de valeur du riz et du maïs, passant d’une faible productivité et de fortes externalités environnementales à des systèmes alimentaires durables, intégrés et performants, générant des avantages sociaux, économiques et environnementaux pour le Bénin. 

36 000 producteurs ciblés 

Le projet, qui sera mis en œuvre jusqu’en 2030, permettra de restaurer 20.000 hectares de terres dégradées, de mettre 114.900 hectares sous les bonnes pratiques durables, d’impacter 36.000 bénéficiaires directes et 356 000 bénéficiaires finaux dans les communes de Karimama, Malanville, Glazoué, Kétou et les Aguégués. Son coût global est de 20.766.207 USD pour une contribution de 5.966.207 USD du Fonds pour l’Environnement Mondial et un cofinancement de 14.800.000 USD comme la contrepartie béninoise. 

Pour l’importance du projet, le Ministre Adin Yeton BLOUKOUNON GOUBALAN a prévenu d’être vigilant sur les technologies à utiliser pour la restauration des sols, avant leur déploiement. 

Monsieur Paul-Henri Zoéwindé BOUDA, Représentant résident de la FAO au Bénin, a souligné que le succès du projet dépendra de l’engagement collectif des acteurs, de toutes les structures impliquées dans la mise en œuvre, ainsi que des bénéficiaires.

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

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Opportunités d’investissements au Bénin : Le Vice-Président du Nigeria Kashim SHETTIMA en immersion au cœur de la Zone Industrielle de Glo-Djigbé (GDIZ)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Dans le cadre de sa visite de travail au Bénin, le Vice-Président de la République Fédérale du Nigéria, Son Excellence le Sénateur Kashim SHETTIMA, s’est rendu ce vendredi 24 juillet 2026 à la Zone Industrielle de Glo-Djigbé (GDIZ). Accompagné d’une forte délégation composée d’hommes d’affaires et d’investisseurs majeurs, ce déplacement marque une étape clé dans le renforcement de la coopération économique entre les deux Nations voisines.

À son arrivée sur le site, la délégation nigériane a été chaleureusement accueillie par le Directeur Général Adjoint de la Société d’Investissement et de Promotion de l’Industrie (SIPI-BENIN), Monsieur Adje FAKI, en présence du Ministre Olushegun ADJADI BAKARI et du Directeur Général de l’Agence de Promotion des Investissements et des Exportations (APIEX), Monsieur Eric AKOUTE.

La visite a débuté par une séance de travail de haut niveau. À cette occasion, les responsables de la GDIZ et de l’APIEX ont présenté en détail les opportunités d’investissements stratégiques, les incitations fiscales et douanières, ainsi que le cadre opérationnel attractif qu’offre la zone aux investisseurs internationaux. Les échanges ont mis en lumière le potentiel de synergie entre le marché nigérian, première puissance économique régionale et la dynamique d’industrialisation rapide en cours au Bénin.

À la suite de la séance de travail, et de la mise en terre de plants symboliques, le Vice-Président Kashim SHETTIMA et sa délégation ont eu droit à une visite guidée des installations. Ce parcours a permis aux investisseurs nigérians de toucher du doigt les réalisations concrètes et le savoir-faire des nombreuses entreprises déjà opérationnelles au sein de la GDIZ. Des unités de transformation aux infrastructures logistiques de pointe, la délégation a pu apprécier l’efficacité du modèle béninois et son environnement des affaires en pleine expansion.

« Nous sommes très émerveillés par ce que nous venons de voir ici à la Zone industrielle de Glo-djigbé. Nous avons beaucoup appris ici », a affirmé le Vice-président.

Cette visite qui ouvre la voie pour des investissements prochains traduit la volonté commune de Cotonou et d’Abuja de dynamiser le commerce transfrontalier, de transformer localement les matières premières et de créer des chaînes de valeur régionales compétitives.

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

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Change of Venue for the International African Energy Oil and Gas Summit International African Energy Oil and Gas Summit (IAEGOS) 2026 to Windhoek Namibia

Source: APO

The Organizing Committee of the International African Energy Oil and Gas Summit (IAEGOS) 2026 announces a change in the venue for this year’s summit.

IAEGOS 2026, which was originally scheduled to hold in Doha, Qatar, will now take place in Windhoek, Namibia.

This decision was made following a careful review of current developments and in the interest of ensuring the safety, security, and seamless participation of all delegates, exhibitors, and partners. Due to the prevailing instability in the Middle East, relocating to Windhoek provides a more stable and conducive environment for the high-level engagements IAEGOS is known for.

Updated Event Details:

– Dates: 21st – 25th October 2026 — unchanged

– Venue:  Windhoek, Namibia

– Theme: “Igniting Africa’s Energy and Land Governance Future”

– Program: The full conference agenda, speaker lineup, and exhibition plans remain as previously announced.

Windhoek offers world-class conference infrastructure and the warm hospitality Namibia is known for. We are working closely with the Government of the Republic of Namibia and local partners to ensure a smooth transition and an outstanding summit experience.

We sincerely appreciate the understanding of our sponsors, delegates, partners, and stakeholders. All registrations, sponsorships, and exhibitor bookings will be automatically transferred to the new venue. Our team will reach out directly with updated logistical information, including travel, accommodation, and visa guidance for Namibia.

IAEGOS remains committed to advancing dialogue, investment, and partnerships that drive Africa’s energy future. We look forward to welcoming the global energy community to Windhoek for IAEGOS 2026.

ABOUT IAEOG 2026

The International African Energy, Oil & Gas Summit (IAEOG) stands as Africa’s premier platform for innovation, investment, and dialogue in the energy sector. Now in its fourth edition, the summit continues to gain momentum, drawing over 2,500 high-level delegates from more than 100 countries, including CEOs, ministers, investors, regulators, entrepreneurs, and global industry leaders united in unlocking Africa’s full energy potential.

2026 THEME: “IGNITING AFRICA’S ENERGY AND LAND GOVERNANCE FUTURE”

The backdrop: Africa’s Energy paradox

Africa sits on massive resources but still has a huge access gap:

– Resources: Over 125 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, more than 620 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, plus a growing portfolio of renewables and critical minerals

– Gap: Over 600 million people across the continent still lack reliable electricity

– Stakes: Oil and gas remain integral for industrial growth, electricity, clean cooking, fertilizers, petrochemicals, and public revenue for infrastructure

The summit positions itself as the moment to move from potential to structured action.

IAEOGS Namibia 2026 is designed as a curated investment platform, not just a talk shop. The theme breaks into 3 core value pillars:

a. Energy ignition: Capital + Projects + Policy alignment

The goal is to align capital, policy, and bankable projects across oil, gas, power, and clean energy value chains.

Expect:

– Ministerial and CEO-level policy dialogues

– Investment showcases and project financing roundtables

– Closed-door investor and executive sessions

b. Land Governance: Regulatory certainty and investment protection

This is the big addition in 2026. Legal and regulatory systems are being put front and center because investors need confidence while countries pursue responsible resource development.

Key agenda items include:

– Regulatory certainty and investment protection

– Environmental, social and governance regulation

– Evolving legal frameworks governing petroleum, gas, power and renewables

– Dispute resolution in low-carbon energy environments

– Data governance, licensing transparency, and contract sanctity to unlock a more integrated African energy market

 “Harmonization is not about exporting laws across borders; it is about aligning core principles” so Africa can compete better.

c. Cross-border integration

Sessions will also cover cross-border energy investment and regional integration.

Why this theme is valuable for 2026

1. De-risking investment: With global geopolitics reshaping supply chains, Africa and Nigeria are positioning as dependable oil, gas and LNG sources. Strong land governance + clear regulation directly addresses the commercial and legal risk calculus investors face.

2. Financing the transition: Carbon markets, climate finance, and new vehicles like the $5 billion African Energy Bank are on the table. The summit wants to solve Africa’s energy financing challenges “by Africa, for Africa”.

3. Linking resources to industrialization: Beyond raw exports, the focus is on value addition, shared infrastructure, and regional value chains. Energy is framed as the driver for industrialization and inclusive growth.

4. Balancing security and sustainability: Countries are balancing energy security, sustainability and economic growth.

The summit will feature eight thematic tracks, including:

  • Energy Transition & Innovation
  • Climate Finance & Sustainability
  • Infrastructure Development
  • Oil & Gas Technologies
  • Regulatory Reforms & Land Governance
  • Capacity Building & Local Content
  • Investment & Finance
  • Digital Transformation in Energy

IAEOG 2026 is poised to catalyze over $10 billion in clean energy investments.

SECURE YOUR SPOT TODAY

Join us in Windhoek, Namibia, this August to connect with global leaders, close high-value deals, and shape the energy policies that will power Africa’s future.

Let’s drive Africa’s energy transformation—together.

For inquiries regarding sponsorship, speaking engagements, media partnerships, or participation, kindly contact:

Issued by:

The IAEGOS 2026 Organizing Committee

July 25, 2026

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Peace Magazine.

Media Contact: 
Prudence Ramotso
Group Head Events & International Affairs
+2348033975746 | +447407399766, |+27651766722 | +2648123522
info@iaegos.com | info@iaegos.com
Website: https://africanpeace.org/ 
https://africanoilandgassummit.com/ 
https://www.iaeogs.com/

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Merck Foundation together with African and Asian First Ladies mark ‘World Assisted Reproductive Technology Day’ 2026 through their ‘More Than a Mother’ Campaign

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks World Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Day 2026 together with African and Asian First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” Campaign by reaffirming their long-term commitment to building and advancing fertility care capacity.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the “More Than a Mother” campaign, emphasized, “We mark the World Assisted Reproductive Technology Day, together with my dear sisters the African and Asian First Ladies by reshaping the landscape of Fertility & Reproductive care across Africa and beyond.

I am happy to share that through our ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’ campaign, we have provided 807 scholarships of Fertility, Embryology and Reproductive Care for healthcare providers from 42 countries.

I am especially proud that many of our alumni have been trained to become the first-ever local embryologists and fertility specialists in their countries, including The Gambia, Burundi, Guinea, Chad, Niger, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Malawi, Congo, and Mozambique, where previously there was not a single local specialist in these critical fields. We are making history.”

Merck Foundation has till date provided more than 2650 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Out of the 807 scholarships provided for Fertility and Reproductive care, Merck Foundation has provided 365 Scholarships for clinical and practical training for Fertility and Embryology, and 442 Scholarships for PG Diploma and Master Degree in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women’s Health, Biotechnology of Human Assisted Reproduction & Embryology, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical skills and Family Medicine to healthcare providers from 42 countries across Africa and Asia.

“Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” is a strong movement that aims to break infertility stigma and empower women living with infertility through access to information, education, health and change of mindset.

Over the past 11 years, Merck Foundation has worked closely with over 33 African and Asian First Ladies as Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More than a Mother” to build reproductive and fertility care capacity, break infertility stigma and support girl education.

In many African cultures, infertility remains highly stigmatized, with women often unfairly blamed for childlessness. This can lead to discrimination, isolation, divorce, and even physical or psychological violence. As a part of “More Than a Mother” Campaign, Merck Foundation has launched many initiatives to break this stigma and create a culture shift.

Through the “Empowering Berna” initiative under the “More Than a Mother” campaign, Merck Foundation has empowered women who can no longer be treated for infertility by providing business training to help them become financially independent and rebuild their lives. The initiative has transformed the lives of many women across many African countries including Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Niger, Malawi, and more.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has trained more than 4000 media representatives from more than 35 countries to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, infertility prevention & management and male infertility.

Merck Foundation in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies, has also launched ‘More Than Mother’ Children’s storybook to emphasize strong family values of love and respect from a young age which will reflect on eliminating the stigma of infertility and the resulted domestic violence in the future. The book has also been adapted to an animation film. Watch More Than a Mother Animation Film here: https://apo-opa.co/4pF8lcP

Merck Foundation’s pan African TV program “Our Africa”, that is conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and features African Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent experts from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa, has many episodes dedicated to raise awareness about infertility and breaking infertility stigma.

Watch the episodes here:

Episode 3: https://apo-opa.co/3T9HucW

Episode 5: https://apo-opa.co/4c38jWz

Episode 10: https://apo-opa.co/4pFXeR9

Merck Foundation has also released about 30 songs, many of these songs have been created with the aim to break the infertility stigma, as a part of their “More Than a Mother” campaign. Listen to the “More than a Mother” songs here: https://apo-opa.co/3RTyhVF

Merck Foundation in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies annually launches their More Than a Mother’ Awards for the best Media, Song, Film and Fashion Designs, to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, male infertility, infertility prevention & management, and a wide range of other social issues.

Details of the Awards:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026:  All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

Apply here: https://apo-opa.co/44Ntk3C

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to: 

submit@merck-foundation.com

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

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4pHOMRo
X: https://apo-opa.co/4pFg3DS
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4wXYRfb
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/44In8dj
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/44NznoR
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4w7jDIJ
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com 
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4wVdXlB

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/4pHOMRo), X (https://apo-opa.co/4pFg3DS),Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/44In8dj), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4wXYRfb), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/44NznoR) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4w7jDIJ).

​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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Women’s Month to be launched with EmpowerHer Market Trade Fair in Durban

Source: Government of South Africa

Women’s Month to be launched with EmpowerHer Market Trade Fair in Durban

Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister in the Presidency Sindisiwe Chikunga will officially launch the 2026 Women’s Month campaign at the EmpowerHer Market Trade Fair in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

The EmpowerHer Market Trade Fair is a flagship government initiative, implemented in partnership with ABSA, to advance women’s economic empowerment by creating opportunities for women-owned businesses to showcase their products and services, access new markets, establish business partnerships, and connect with potential investors and customers.

The launch will recognise the significant contribution women make to South Africa’s economy, while highlighting the persistent barriers many continue to face, including limited access to finance, procurement opportunities, markets, technology, information, and business development support.

“These challenges are further compounded by poverty, unemployment, unequal pay, discrimination and gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF),” the department said.

The trade fair, taking place Durban Olive Convention Centre on Saturday, 1 August 2026, will bring together women entrepreneurs, government departments, state entities, development finance institutions, private sector partners, civil society organisations and members of the public to strengthen collaboration aimed at advancing women’s economic inclusion and sustainable livelihoods.

The event will also mark the official start of the 2026 Women’s Month programme, which will be observed under the theme: “Empowered Women Empower the Nation”.

South Africa commemorates Women’s Month in August as a tribute to the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women.

Government declared August Women’s Month and 9 August is celebrated annually as Women’s Day. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia

Source: Government of Qatar

Manila – 24 July 2026

His Excellency Mr. Sultan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, met today with His Excellency Mr. Soegiono, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, on the sidelines of the commemorative event marking the fiftieth anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, held in the Philippine capital, Manila.  

During the meeting, they reviewed the cooperative relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them, and discussed a number of issues of mutual interest.  

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The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs meets with the Second Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam

Source: Government of Qatar

Manila – 24 July 2026

His Excellency Mr. Sultan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, met today with His Excellency Mr. Erywan Pehin Yusof, Second Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam, on the sidelines of the commemorative event marking the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, held in the Philippine capital, Manila.  

During the meeting, they reviewed the bilateral cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them, and discussed a number of issues of mutual interest.