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South Africa’s first table grapes shipment arrives in the Philippines

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa’s first table grapes shipment arrives in the Philippines

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has welcomed the successful arrival of the first official shipment of South African table grapes to the Philippines, marking a significant milestone following the granting of market access in 2025.

The inaugural shipment represents the culmination of several years of sustained technical engagement between the South African and Philippine governments, underpinned by close collaboration with industry stakeholders and regulatory authorities.

It reflects a shared commitment to science-based phytosanitary standards and the steady expansion of agricultural trade between the two countries.

Steenhuisen said the arrival of the first shipment is more than a commercial transaction.

“It is the opening of a new trade corridor between South Africa and the Philippines. It demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained cooperation, mutual trust, and a shared ambition to grow our agricultural sectors.”

The Philippines is among the top 20 global importers of table grapes, with imports estimated at approximately 74,000 tonnes in 2024, equivalent to around 16 million cartons (4.5kg cartons). With a population of over 118 million people, a rapidly expanding middle class, and increasing urbanisation, the market presents a significant long-term opportunity for South African producers.

South Africa’s table grape industry continues to show steady growth. According to the department, in the current 2025/26 season to date, exports have reached 76.6 million cartons, reflecting both the resilience of the sector and its ability to respond to evolving global demand.

Steenhuisen emphasised that South Africa views the Philippines not simply as a destination market, but as a long-term partner in food security, trade, and agricultural development.

“We see this as the beginning of a sustained partnership. South Africa remains committed to being a reliable, predictable supplier of high-quality, safe agricultural products, and to working closely with our Philippine counterparts to build a consistent and growing presence in this market over time,” Steenhuisen said in a statement on Thursday.

The Minister also noted that expanding into new markets such as the Philippines forms part of South Africa’s broader strategy to diversify export destinations, strengthen resilience, and reduce over-reliance on traditional trading partners.

“Southeast Asia represents a dynamic and increasingly important region for South African agriculture. Our approach is not to replace existing markets, but to broaden our footprint in a way that supports long-term growth, stability, and opportunity for our producers,” he said.

The Minister said the table grape industry will now focus on establishing a firm foothold in the Philippine market during South Africa’s supply window, with a view to expanding volumes, varietal offerings, and market integration over the next three to five years.

Steenhuisen expressed his appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to this achievement, including the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI), the Department of Agriculture, the South African Embassy in the Philippines led by Her Excellency Ambassador Bartinah Ntombizodwa Radebe-Netshitenzhe, as well as the Philippine Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Plant Industry.

“This milestone is the result of coordinated effort across government and industry. It lays a strong foundation for deeper cooperation, expanded trade, and shared prosperity between our two nations,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK

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Des femmes au cœur de la transmission des valeurs olympiques au Sénégal

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

L’impact des Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse de Dakar 2026 se fera sentir bien au-delà des terrains de sport et des stades : il résonnera jusque dans les écoles et les salles de classe. À l’occasion du mois international des femmes, nous rendons hommage à celles qui unissent sport et éducation pour impulser des changements positifs à travers tout le Sénégal, dans le cadre du programme d’héritage des Jeux, dont le programme d’éducation aux valeurs olympiques (PEVO) constitue un pilier fondamental.

CE QU’IL FAUT RETENIR

  • Le comité d’organisation des Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse de Dakar 2026 a pour ambition de mobiliser 900 000 jeunes âgés de 9 à 15 ans dans 11 000 écoles avant l’ouverture des Jeux en octobre.
  • L’équipe chargée de la mise en œuvre du PEVO, composée d’éducateurs, d’animateurs jeunesse et d’animateurs sportifs assurant la formation des enseignants, affiche une parité femmes-hommes quasi parfaite.
  • Près de 50 % des bénéficiaires sont des filles.

“Ne vous imposez aucune limite : les chemins qui s’offrent à vous sont nombreux.”

Tel est le message qu’Aïchatou Diop espère voir porter par les filles de tout le Sénégal, alors que le pays se prépare à accueillir les Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse (JOJ) de Dakar 2026. Son propre parcours illustre cette conviction : après six années de volontariat et d’encadrement en natation, elle occupe désormais un poste au sein du comité d’organisation de Dakar 2026.

Aïchatou Diop fait partie d’un réseau croissant de femmes éducatrices qui aident des milliers d’enfants sénégalais à découvrir le lien puissant entre le sport et l’épanouissement personnel, à travers une certification olympique civique et sportive – le Brevet Olympique Civique et Sportif (BOCS). Ce programme national constitue le socle de l’héritage éducatif de ces Jeux.

Les principes du PEVO sont au cœur du BOCS. L’ambition est de mobiliser 900 000 jeunes âgés de 9 à 15 ans dans 11 000 écoles avant le coup d’envoi des JOJ en octobre.

Dans les salles de classe, sur les terrains de sport et dans les centres communautaires, des femmes comme Aïchatou Diop jouent un rôle central dans la concrétisation de cette mission.

LES FEMMES OUVRENT LA VOIE

Le déploiement national du BOCS repose sur un solide réseau de femmes actives à tous les échelons du programme, de la gouvernance et de la coordination de projet à la formation des enseignants et à l’enseignement en classe.

“Les femmes sont présentes aussi bien au niveau de la gouvernance qu’au niveau opérationnel”, souligne Fanta Diallo, directrice de l’engagement et de la mobilisation pour les JOJ de Dakar 2026, dont le département supervise la mise en œuvre. “Elles sont représentées au sein de nos équipes de direction et de mise en œuvre […] et jouent un rôle actif dans l’enseignement et le mentorat.”

L’équipe de Fanta Diallo – composée d’éducateurs, d’animateurs jeunesse et d’animateurs sportifs dans une proportion quasi paritaire – est mobilisée pour la formation des enseignants, le mentorat des étudiants ainsi que l’appui aux écoles et aux programmes de jeunesse lors de l’introduction d’activités et de clubs liés au PEVO.

Le programme est également présent dans les “cases des tout-petits” du Sénégal – ces structures communautaires destinées aux enfants en âge d’aller à la maternelle – afin de veiller à ce que les valeurs olympiques que sont l’excellence, le respect et l’amitié soient transmises dès le plus jeune âge.

ÉLARGIR LES HORIZONS DES FILLES

Facilitating equal access to sport, education and leadership opportunities is a priority of the BOCS. Targeted outreach is directed at girls in schools and community settings, while the programme is aligned with national and local initiatives promoting girls’ education, health and participation in sport and community life.

“Particular attention is given to parity in access, participation in practical sports sessions, civic modules and leadership activities linked to the Olympic values,” Fanta explains.

Those aims are being achieved. Girls represent almost 50 per cent of the beneficiaries of the BOCS programme – a significant proportion in a country where many girls face cultural and socioeconomic barriers to sporting and educational opportunities.

INSPIRER LA PROCHAINE GENERATION

Partout au Sénégal, des clubs BOCS ont été créés au sein des établissements scolaires ; ils sont fréquemment dirigés par des comités d’élèves mixtes chargés d’organiser des activités inspirées des valeurs olympiques.

Dans un établissement du secondaire, un groupe de jeunes filles engagées dans un club PEVO a organisé une journée “valeurs par le sport”, en concevant le programme, en coordonnant l’événement et en animant des séances de sensibilisation au respect et au fair-play.

Les effets de cette initiative ont largement dépassé le cadre de l’événement lui-même. Plusieurs participantes ont par la suite assumé des rôles de premier plan au sein d’autres clubs scolaires et initiatives communautaires. Leurs enseignants ont également constaté des progrès sensibles dans leur prise de parole en public, leur capacité de décision et leur assurance.

Pour Cécile Faye, directrice de l’Académie nationale olympique du Sénégal, de tels résultats témoignent de l’importance et de la valeur du leadership féminin, ainsi que de la capacité des femmes à transmettre des valeurs positives aux jeunes générations.

“Ce qui rend le leadership féminin essentiel dans la société, c’est la transmission de valeurs aux jeunes filles”, affirme Cécile Faye. “Les voir s’émanciper et reproduire ces comportements est profondément rassurant.”

Pour Awa Ndao, formatrice PEVO et spécialiste de l’engagement des jeunes, l’impact du programme se manifeste souvent dans de petits instants marquants.

Ce qui la motive avant tout, dit-elle, ce sont “les sourires des enfants” – ceux qui se sentent inclus et valorisés grâce aux initiatives du PEVO.

Awa Ndao est convaincue que les femmes jouent un rôle déterminant dans la création d’environnements propices à cette transformation et dans la pérennisation de l’héritage de Dakar 2026 bien au-delà de la clôture des Jeux. Elle résume cet objectif en une formule : “s’inspirer de l’Olympisme pour bâtir un monde meilleur”.

Distribué par APO Group pour International Olympic Committee (IOC).

À propos du Programme d’Education aux Valeurs Olympiques :
Le PEVO est constitué de plusieurs ressources pédagogiques gratuites et accessibles qui viennent compléter les programmes scolaires en s’appuyant sur les sports olympiques et les principes fondamentaux de l’Olympisme. Il entend communiquer les bienfaits à long terme de la pratique du sport et de l’activité physique par une meilleure compréhension de l’Olympisme et de son impact sur la santé de chacun, le sentiment d’accomplissement et les interactions sociales. Pour de plus amples informations, rendez-vous sur la page web du programme.

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Women leading spread of the Olympic values across Senegal

Source: APO

The impact of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will be felt not just on sports fields and in stadiums but also in schools and classrooms. To celebrate International Women’s Month, we shine a spotlight on the women combining sport and education to inspire positive change across Senegal as part of the Games’ legacy programme, of which the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) (http://apo-opa.co/40UDldm) is a key driver.

KEY FACTS

  • The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee is aiming to reach 900,000 young people aged from 9 to 15 across 11,000 schools before the start of the Games in October.
  • The team in charge of implementing OVEP – a group of educators, youth leaders and sports facilitators who are training teachers – boasts near-perfect gender parity.
  • Nearly 50 per cent of the beneficiaries are girls.

“Do not set limits for yourself – there are many possible paths.”

For Aïchatou Diop, this is the message she hopes that girls across Senegal will carry with them as the country prepares to host the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. Her own journey reflects this belief: after six years as a committed volunteer and swimming coach, she now has a role in the Dakar 2026 Organising Committee.

Aïchatou is just one member of a growing network of women educators helping thousands of Senegalese children discover the powerful connection between sport and personal development through an Olympic civic and sports certification – the Brevet Olympique Civique et Sportif (BOCS)  – a national programme forming the key pillar of the educational legacy of these Games.

The principles of OVEP are central to the BOCS. The ambition is to reach 900,000 young people aged from 9 to 15 across 11,000 schools before the start of the Games in October.

Across classrooms, sports fields and community centres, women like Aïchatou are playing a central role in bringing that mission to fruition.

WOMEN LEADING THE WAY

Behind the national rollout of the BOCS is a strong network of women working at every level of the programme – from project management and coordination to teacher training and classroom delivery.

“Women are integrated at both governance and operational levels,” explains Fanta Diallo, the Engagement and Mobilisation Director for Dakar 2026, whose department is overseeing the rollout. “Women are represented within our leadership and delivery teams […] and play an active role in curriculum delivery and mentoring.”

Fanta’s team – a group of educators, youth leaders and sports facilitators with near‑perfect gender parity – are involved in training teachers, mentoring students and supporting schools and youth programmes as they introduce OVEP-related activities and clubs.

The programme is even active in Senegal’s “toddler huts” – community centres for kindergarten-age children – ensuring that the Olympic values of excellence, respect and friendship are introduced from an early age.

CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR GIRLS

Facilitating equal access to sport, education and leadership opportunities is a priority of the BOCS. Targeted outreach is directed at girls in schools and community settings, while the programme is aligned with national and local initiatives promoting girls’ education, health and participation in sport and community life.

“Particular attention is given to parity in access, participation in practical sports sessions, civic modules and leadership activities linked to the Olympic values,” Fanta explains.

Those aims are being achieved. Girls represent almost 50 per cent of the beneficiaries of the BOCS programme – a significant proportion in a country where many girls face cultural and socioeconomic barriers to sporting and educational opportunities.

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION

Across Senegal, BOCS clubs have been established in schools, often led by mixed-gender student committees responsible for organising activities inspired by the Olympic values.

In one secondary school, a group of girls involved in an OVEP club organised a “values through sport” day, designing the programme, coordinating the event and leading awareness sessions on respect and fair play.

The impact extended well beyond the event. Several of the girls went on to take leadership roles in other school clubs and community initiatives. Their teachers also reported noticeable improvements in their public speaking, decision-making and confidence.

Cécile Faye, Director of the National Olympic Academy of Senegal, believes such outcomes demonstrate the importance and value of having women in leadership roles, and their capacity to imbue positive values in younger generations.

“What makes female leadership important in society is transmitting values to young girls,” Cécile explains. “Seeing them become autonomous and reproducing the same behaviours is reassuring.”

For Awa Ndao, an OVEP trainer and youth engagement specialist, the programme’s impact can often be seen in small but powerful moments.

What motivates her most, she says, are “les sourires des enfants” – the smiles of children who feel included and valued through OVEP initiatives.

She believes that women play a crucial role in creating environments where that transformation can happen, and in ensuring that the legacy of Dakar 2026 extends far beyond the end of the Games. She sums up that aim as “drawing inspiration from Olympism to build a better world”.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Olympic Committee (IOC).

About the Olympic Values Education Programme:
OVEP consists of a series of free and easily accessible teaching resources that complement school curricula using the context of Olympic sports and the Fundamental Principles of Olympism. OVEP communicates the long-term benefits of sport and physical activity through an understanding of Olympism and its impact on individual health, enjoyment and social interaction. For more information, visit the programme’s website (http://apo-opa.co/40UDldm).

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Delegations from Nigeria, Senegal, Zambia and Djibouti to Meet Investors at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2026 in Paris

Source: APO


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With Africa’s energy landscape accelerating toward new frontiers in gas, power and renewables, the continent is drawing unprecedented investor attention. Senior delegations from Nigeria, Senegal, Djibouti and Zambia are confirmed to attend the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2026 Forum in Paris, providing a unique platform for investors to engage directly with policymakers and project developers at a time of major energy expansion and infrastructure transition. Their participation highlights the continent’s drive to secure capital, scale domestic production and advance regional energy integration.

Nigeria: Gas Expansion and Export Growth
Nigeria’s energy sector continues to benefit from high-growth dynamics under the Petroleum Industry Act and its strategic pivot toward natural gas. The country’s Dangote Petroleum Refinery, with a 650,000-barrel-per-day capacity, reached full operation in February and has begun exports to countries including Ivory Coast, Ghana and Tanzania. Key infrastructure projects include the near-complete Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline and the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline. The 2025 Oil Licensing Round remains active, offering 50 blocks and attracting projected investment of $10 billion.

Senegal: Offshore Oil and LNG Growth
Senegal has achieved commercial production of offshore oil and LNG. The Sangomar field produced 36.1 million barrels in 2025, exceeding expectations, while the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project’s Phase 1 delivered its first LNG cargo in April 2025. Senegal’s Karpowership LNG-to-power facility began supplying the domestic grid in mid-2025. Future developments include Sangomar Phase 2 and GTA Phase 2, alongside ongoing renewable energy projects under the Just Energy Transition Partnership.

Zambia: Diversifying Power Generation
Zambia is reducing reliance on hydropower, with solar, coal and petroleum projects scaling up. Notable initiatives include the $1.1 billion Ndola refinery, Chisamba and Itimpi II solar plants, and Maamba Collieries Phase II coal expansion. Reforms such as open access for independent power producers and fast-track approvals aim to unlock investment toward the government’s 10 GW generation capacity target by 2030.

Djibouti: Renewables and Regional Energy Hub
Djibouti imports most of its energy but is advancing renewable generation, including the 60 MW Ghoubet Wind Farm and the Grand Bara Solar Plant. Geothermal development at Lake Assal targets 50 MW of continuous power. Electrification currently covers roughly 65–70% of the population, with the government aiming for full access by 2030–2035. Djibouti also functions as a critical logistics hub for regional fossil fuel flows, particularly for Ethiopia.

The confirmed participation of these senior delegations reinforces the IAE 2026 Forum as a strategic platform for investors seeking verified, high-potential opportunities in Africa’s rapidly evolving energy sector, across oil, gas, power and renewable infrastructure. Their presence provides a direct line to key decision-makers and ongoing developments, offering insight into market dynamics, investment pipelines and regional energy growth.

IAE 2026 (www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to connect African energy markets with global investors, serving as a key platform for deal-making in the lead-up to African Energy Week. Scheduled for April 22–23, 2026, in Paris, the event will provide delegates with two days of in-depth engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or register as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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ESI Africa 2026 Finance & Investment Insights: Charting the Path to Africa’s $4.2 Trillion Infrastructure and Energy Opportunity

Source: APO

ESI Africa releases the definitive 2026 Finance & Investment Industry Insights Volume to navigate Africa’s infrastructure transition and South Africa’s R4.2 trillion funding gap.

The report, Finance & Investment Industry Insights Volume 1 2026, provides a strategic roadmap for investors, utilities, and policymakers navigating funding of the continent’s infrastructure landscape.

As African economies face macroeconomic stress from global geopolitical volatility and rising energy prices, the need for structural investment is now more urgent than ever.

The publication arrives at a critical juncture, specifically addressing the R3.6 trillion to R4.2 trillion funding gap South Africa must bridge to achieve energy security and Net-Zero commitments by 2050.

“From the analysis in this Volume, there is no doubt that South Africa faces a critical capital ‘hump’ between 2025 and 2030,” notes Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl, Editor-in-Chief.

“Success here depends less on the global availability of money and more on the country’s internal ability to implement regulatory efficiency. However, regardless of closing the funding gap, end users must prepare themselves for higher electricity bills.”

Key Insights from Volume 1 2026:

Electricity market reform and tariffs
The volume provides a deep dive into how shifting to multi-market structures and wholesale trading is reshaping electricity bills. It explores the “tightrope” of achieving grid stability while moving toward cost-reflective tariffs, which in South Africa have already doubled in the last five years.

The evolution of sustainable finance
With the green debt market exceeding $800 billion globally, the publication distinguishes between “Green Finance,” for established solutions, and the emerging “Transition Finance” pillar for hard-to-abate sectors.

Carbon markets as an asset class
Driven by corporate net-zero commitments, the carbon credit market is projected to grow to nearly $24 billion by 2030. The magazine examines how “pricing the invisible” can make marginal projects bankable in emerging markets.

Venture capital & innovation
Despite an “AI shadow” that saw some non-specialist funds pivot away from energy, the report highlights the rise of “patient capital” and a 91% surge in venture debt value to $1.8 billion in 2025.

Critical minerals and “friend-shoring”
Following the 2026 Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington, the report analyses how new tariffs and strategic supply-chain alliances are redrawing the map for African producers.

“The time of a single electricity provider is ending,” states the publication. “The new system is moving toward a market with more players, more pricing options, and clearer decisions about who pays and how.”

Next investable projects
The volume also features an Investable Project Pipeline, showcasing high-impact initiatives such as the 394,000-hectare Rubeho Mountains Carbon Project in Tanzania, forest restoration in Nigeria, and innovative mineshaft pumped hydro storage in South Africa.

“The common thread through all these insights is a move toward maturity. Whether it is through smarter revenue collection, more nuanced sustainable finance, or using minerals as leverage, Africa is increasingly positioning itself as a strategic, rather than just a reactive, player in the global energy transition,” says Pombo-van Zyl.

Finance & Investment Industry Insights, Volume 1 2026 is now available for download at https://apo-opa.co/4sCPZKi

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Media Contact:
Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl,
Editor-in-Chief
nicolette@wearevuka.com 
www.ESI-Africa.com

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Opening remarks by Deputy President Paul Mashatile on the occasion of the 9th SA-China Bi-National Commission during the working visit by China Vice President, Han Zheng

Source: President of South Africa –

Let me take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to Your Excellency Vice President HAN Zheng, and your delegation to South Africa. Your presence reflects the enduring friendship, mutual respect and shared commitment to development that underpin relations between our two nations, as the year 2026 marks 28 years since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China.

We recall with appreciation the strong momentum in our bilateral relations, including my Working Visit to China in July 2025, aimed at strengthening economic and trade cooperation, followed by the meeting held in November 2025 with Premier Li Qiang of the People’s Republic of China at the NH Hotel in Sandton which advanced South Africa’s strategic objectives in trade, investment, industrialisation, multilateral cooperation and governance.

Since the establishment of the Bi-National Commission through the Pretoria Declaration in 2000, this platform in particular has served as the apex mechanism guiding and consolidating cooperation between South Africa and China.

Over nearly three decades, our bilateral relationship has grown in depth, scope and strategic importance, contributing meaningfully to economic development and reflecting our shared aspiration to accelerate development in both our countries.

This platform remains relevant today and continues to provide strategic direction for the implementation of our partnership, particularly under the Ten-Year Strategic Programme for Cooperation (2020–2029).

Therefore, my hope for today is that this meeting will guide us in consolidating progress since the 8th session, help us identify priority areas for future cooperation, and strengthen sectoral collaboration.

While South Africa maintains strong relations with all major global partners and actively participates in multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, the G20, BRICS and the International Criminal Court, our partnership with China has become increasingly prominent and continues to compare favourably with our relations with other global partners.

As we meet under the theme of advancing shared modernisation, we are reminded that our partnership must respond to a rapidly changing global environment, while advancing inclusive growth, industrial development and technological progress.

South Africa is also encouraged by the growing investment footprint of Chinese enterprises in South Africa. Investments such as the Hisense industrial park in Atlantis, Cape Town, demonstrate the potential for industrial cooperation to drive job creation, skills development, and local economic growth.

We see significant potential to further expand cooperation in infrastructure development, particularly in the modernisation of ports, rail and road networks, which remain critical to unlocking economic growth and improving regional integration.

South Africa’s approach to international relations remains guided by its national interest, which is to advance the development of its people through inclusive economic growth.

In this regard, South Africa remains committed to ensuring that its partnership with China delivers practical outcomes that improve the lives of its people and contribute to sustainable development in both our countries.

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me. We deeply value your visit to our country and trust that you will enjoy the beauty of Cape Town, including the iconic Table Mountain and its surrounding landscapes, which stand as a proud symbol of South Africa’s natural heritage and hospitality.

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Closing remarks by Deputy President Paul Mashatile on the occasion of the 9th SA-China Bi-National Commission during the working visit by China Vice President, Han Zheng

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency Vice President HAN Zheng, dear colleagues and friends,

I wish to express my profound gratitude for today’s engagements and your leadership in co-chairing this successful 9th Session of the South Africa–China Bi-National Commission.

Today’s proceedings have injected renewed momentum into our bilateral relations and reaffirmed the importance of this platform as the apex mechanism guiding cooperation between the two nations

Our deliberations today have also enabled us to take stock of progress since the 8th Session and to assess implementation under the Ten-Year Strategic Programme for Cooperation.

We have noted with appreciation the outcomes of the Foreign Affairs Sectoral Committee, which reaffirmed our shared commitment to advancing development, addressing debt sustainability, strengthening climate action, and promoting the reform of international financial institutions to better reflect the interests of developing countries such as ourselves.

South Africa further welcomes the continued strengthening of coordination within multilateral platforms, including BRICS, which is playing an increasingly important role in advancing a more inclusive, equitable and multipolar global order, as well as our shared commitment to safeguarding multilateralism and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

South Africa also notes the importance of strengthening political dialogue through platforms such as the Strategic Dialogue and the Joint Working Group, which will ensure sustained engagement on regional and global priorities, and the effective implementation of BNC outcomes.

With that being said, in the area of Trade and Investment, South Africa welcomes the progress made in advancing cooperation in key sectors, including the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA) and the China National Nuclear Corporation in April 2025, as well as ongoing engagements through the China–South Africa Mining Working Group.

We are encouraged by the growing collaboration in energy planning, gas-to-power and nuclear-to-power development, as well as the shared commitment to deepen cooperation in mineral processing, beneficiation and value addition, which are critical to strengthening South Africa’s industrial base for economic growth.

South Africa further notes the importance of expanding investment cooperation, including mobilising Chinese investment into initiatives such as the Junior Mining Exploration Fund, revitalising smelters, and strengthening South Africa’s position within global value chains.

In the Environmental and Infrastructure sector, South Africa welcomes progress in cooperation on small harbours, fisheries and aquaculture, as well as ongoing negotiations on protocols and agreements that will strengthen market access and technical collaboration.

South Africa also notes the advancement of cooperation in biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, and environmental research, including progress on agreements relating to wetlands, desert ecosystems and wildlife.

In the area of Science and Technology, we are encouraged by the agreement to expand joint research projects and flagship initiatives, as well as the strengthening of people-to-people exchanges between researchers. To this end, South Africa welcomes the growing cooperation in Artificial Intelligence, innovation and digital technologies, which will support technology localisation, skills development and the advancement of sustainable economic growth.

In the field of Education and Culture, we commend the expansion of scholarship programmes supported by our Sector Education and Training Authorities, as well as initiatives such as the Chinese STEM Bursary Programme and partnerships with institutions such as Beijing Polytechnic College.

We are encouraged by the focus on technical and vocational education and training, which is equipping young South Africans with critical skills, including in emerging sectors such as new energy vehicle technologies, which are creating pathways into employment through partnerships with industry.

In a rapidly changing global environment, shaped by shifting leadership dynamics and rising geopolitical tensions, including ongoing conflicts in regions such as the Middle East, South Africa and China, countries must continue to work together to advance shared modernisation, deepen economic cooperation, and strengthen coordination in multilateral platforms, while promoting dialogue, stability and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Your Excellency, I once again thank you for your leadership and partnership in today’s engagements and look forward to concluding our discussions later this evening at the banquet dinner hosted in your honour in Constantia Winelands, where we will have the opportunity to enjoy some of South Africa’s finest African cuisine and hospitality.
 

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Over 3 400 officers deployed for KZN Easter road safety campaign

Source: Government of South Africa

Over 3 400 officers deployed for KZN Easter road safety campaign

More than 3 483 law enforcement officers, supported by over 105 national traffic police officers, have been deployed across KwaZulu-Natal for the Easter holidays and Passover long weekend.

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma announced the deployment during the launch of the province’s road safety campaign this week, at the Umdloti Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) Centre.

The campaign commenced with inspections of public transport vehicles, with 17 buses and minibus taxis checked by 9am. Four vehicles were also impounded by teams from Operation Shanela and the Road Traffic Inspectorate.

Duma said a multi-disciplinary roadblock conducted in KwaMashu, in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS), eThekwini Metro Police and other stakeholders, had set the tone for intensified enforcement in the coming weeks.

He added that newly appointed Head of Department Zibusiso Dlamini was leading a team that would strengthen the Nenzani La Ezweni Operation at 17 provincial weighbridge sites.

“The most vehicles weighed at a single weighbridge were 40 441 vehicles at the Midway weighbridge, with an average of 3 370 vehicles weighed per month. We have already impounded trucks that were overloads and those that we intercepted moving up and down with fake registration documents,” Duma said.

He said the department was exploring the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) to automate weighing processes, improve accuracy, and curb fraud through features like automated number plate recognition, real-time data analytics, and anomaly detection.

Duma said the province had set a target of 10% reduction in road fatalities during the Easter and Passover long weekend.

He noted that during Easter 2025, KwaZulu-Natal recorded a 38% decrease in fatalities compared to 43% recorded in 2024.

“We have deployed more than 3 483 law enforcement officers and 105 national traffic police officers, who will be operating 24 hours a day, and seven days a week, until 3 May 2026,” Duma said.

Intensified enforcement measures

The department has outlined a series of interventions to enhance road safety, and these include:
•    Roadblocks and compliance checks: A total of 148 multidisciplinary roadblocks will be conducted, including more than 80 operations specifically targeting drunk driving.
•    Speed enforcement: Over 118 speed operations will be conducted in high-risk areas and zones frequented by holidaymakers and worshippers.
•    Interprovincial operations: More than 17 interprovincial roadblocks will be undertaken by roving law enforcement teams.
•    Scholar transport monitoring: Authorities will conduct over 91 operations focusing on scholar transport during the holiday period.

Duma warned that unroadworthy vehicles, including taxis, will be removed from the roads, with enforcement also targeting both drivers and vehicle owners.

In a first for the province, the department will introduce 28 pedestrian enforcement operations to clamp down against drunk pedestrians walking on busy roads.

“We will also penalise pedestrians who fail to use pedestrian bridges on various routes.”

Duma said the department was expecting a surge in traffic volumes, with between 1 500 and 2 000 vehicles per hour expected to pass through the province’s tollgates from Thursday, 2 April 2026.

He urged all road users to exercise caution and comply with traffic regulations to ensure a safer holiday period. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK

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Helicopter incident in Hout Bay not linked to DFFE contract

Source: Government of South Africa

Helicopter incident in Hout Bay not linked to DFFE contract

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has noted with concern an accident with a helicopter operating at the fire site on the slopes of Hout Bay in Table Mountain National Park, while confirming that the occurrence is not linked to its contractual operations.

The helicopter incident involving Kishugu Aviation took place on Wednesday, prompting an emergency medical response and the activation of Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR). The pilot was reported to be safe.

In a statement on Thursday, the department explained that it holds a five-year agreement with the Kishugu Joint Venture — of which Kishugu Aviation forms part — to implement its Working on Fire Programme. 

The programme provides critical aerial support for firefighting operations on DFFE-managed land and, when necessary, assists in responding to community fire incidents.

However, the department emphasised that the incident, which occurred on 25 March 2026, falls outside the scope of this agreement.

“The department confirms that, at the time of the incident, the helicopter was deployed under a separate contractual arrangement and was not undertaking work on behalf of DFFE. The aircraft was operating under a contract with South African National Parks (SANParks).”

The department has sent well wishes to the pilot, wishing them a speedy recovery, and commended all firefighting and emergency personnel involved in the wildfire suppression efforts. 

“The relevant aviation and law enforcement authorities are expected to investigate the incident. DFFE further notes that, according to the service provider’s initial account, the pilot exited the aircraft unaided, made his way to safety, and was transported to the hospital for medical evaluation.” –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle

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Orange lance la 16ème édition du Prix Orange de l’Entrepreneur Social en Afrique et au Moyen Orient (POESAM) pour révéler et soutenir l’entrepreneuriat innovant et les projets à impact

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le jeudi 26 mars 2026 marque le lancement officiel de la 16ᵉ édition très attendue du Prix Orange de l’Entrepreneur Social en Afrique et au Moyen Orient (POESAM) (www.Orange.com), une initiative phare dédiée à la promotion de l’innovation entrepreneuriale à fort impact. À partir du 26 mars 2026 et jusqu’au 10 mai 2026, les entrepreneurs issus des 17 pays de présence d’Orange en Afrique et Moyen-Orient sont invités à déposer leur candidature sur la plateforme dédiée : https://POESAM.Orange.com/.

Un prix au cœur des enjeux technologiques et sociétaux

Pour cette nouvelle édition, Orange met à l’honneur les startups qui mobilisent les nouvelles technologies : intelligence artificielle, big data, cybersécurité, au service d’un impact positif durable tant pour les populations que pour la planète.

Les projets opérant dans les secteurs clés tels que l’agriculture, l’éducation, l’environnement ou la santé sont particulièrement encouragés en raison de leur potentiel transformateur dans la région.

Un dispositif structurant pour accompagner la croissance des startups

Au-delà des récompenses financières, le POESAM constitue un véritable accélérateur de croissance. Les lauréats bénéficieront d’un accompagnement au sein des Orange Digital Centers, ainsi que de partenariats stratégiques visant à favoriser leur croissance, leur ouvrir de nouvelles opportunités de marchés, faciliter les accès aux financements et aux expertises clés et contribuer durablement à leur succès.

Avec plus de 17 600 candidatures reçues depuis sa création, le POESAM s’impose aujourd’hui comme un catalyseur incontournable de l’entrepreneuriat innovant en Afrique et au Moyen-Orient.

Deux phases pour révéler les talents de demain

Le concours se déroulera en deux étapes :

  • Phase nationale (26 mars au 10 mai 2026)

Organisée dans les 17 pays, cette phase permet de sélectionner les lauréats nationaux à l’issue d’une phase d’évaluation suivie par un jury composé d’acteurs de l’écosystème et de représentants Orange.

  • Phase internationale

Les 3 lauréats de chaque pays accèdent à la finale internationale et concourent pour :

  • Le Grand Prix International qui élira les 1er, 2e et 3e gagnants internationaux,
  • Le Prix Féminin International (jusqu’à 3 candidates par pays),

Les projets sont d’abord évalués par un comité composé de salariés du groupe Orange. A l’issue de ces évaluations, 10 finalistes seront désignés pour concourir pour le Grand Prix International et 5 pour le Prix Féminin International.

Un jury final composé d’experts, de personnalités emblématiques de la tech et de l’entrepreneuriat désignera, à partir d’Octobre 2026, les 3 lauréats du Grand Prix International, ainsi que la lauréate du Prix Féminin International du POESAM.

Des récompenses pour accélérer l’impact

Les lauréat-e-s bénéficieront d’un soutien financier significatif pour développer leur solution

  • 25 000€ pour le 1er prix ;
  • 15 000€ pour le 2ème prix ;
  • 10 000€ pour le 3ème prix ;
  • 20 000 € pour le Prix Féminin International ;

Construire un futur en toute confiance

À travers le POESAM, Orange réaffirme son engagement à soutenir la jeunesse, stimuler l’innovation et promouvoir un développement économique inclusif. En accompagnant les entrepreneurs à impact, Orange continue de révéler et de faire émerger les acteurs clés de l’économie de demain.

Distribué par APO Group pour Orange Middle East and Africa.

Contacts Presse – OMEA :
Stella Fumey
stella.fumey@orange.com

Anita Oyono
anita.oyono@orange.com

À propos d’Orange Afrique et Moyen Orient (OMEA) : 
Orange est présent dans 18 pays en Afrique et au Moyen Orient et compte plus de 175 millions de clients au 31 décembre 2025. Avec 8,4 milliards d’euros de chiffre d’affaires en 2025, Orange MEA est la première zone de croissance du groupe Orange. Orange Money, son offre de transfert d’argent et de services financiers, est disponible dans 17 pays et compte plus de 120 millions de clients. Orange, opérateur multi-services, partenaire de référence de la transformation digitale apporte son expertise pour accompagner le développement de nouveaux services digitaux en Afrique et au Moyen-Orient. 

À propos des Orange Digital Centers : 
Véritable carrefour d’opportunités, les Orange Digital Centers réunissent dans un même espace, une École du code, un FabLab Solidaire, atelier de fabrication numérique qui permet de prototyper les projets et d’apprendre par le « Faire », un Orange Fab, accélérateur de start-up qui accompagne les jeunes entrepreneurs et leur permet de développer des partenariats commerciaux nationaux et internationaux avec une ou plusieurs entités du Groupe et Orange Ventures Africa & Middle East, fonds d’investissement de 50 millions d’euros, qui finance les startups innovantes.

Créé par Orange il y a 16 ans, le Prix Orange de l’Entrepreneur Social en Afrique et au Moyen-Orient (POESAM) est une initiative visant à identifier, récompenser et accompagner les projets entrepreneuriaux innovants à fort impact social et environnemental dans la région.

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