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Résultats de l’Enquête sur le Budget Ouvert (OBS), 2025 : Le Bénin se distingue et devient un modèle de référence en Afrique Subsaharienne et dans le monde

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Les résultats obtenus par le Bénin au terme de l’enquête sur le Budget Ouvert, édition 2025, ont été officiellement présentés ce jeudi 18 juin 2026 à Cotonou aux institutions publiques, partenaires techniques et financiers, membres de la société civile et aux médias. 

Ces résultats résultent d’une évaluation internationale conduite par l’International Budget Partnership (IBP) et publiée le 3 juin 2026. Les performances enregistrées consacrent le Bénin parmi les références mondiales en matière de transparence budgétaire, de participation citoyenne et de contrôle budgétaire. 

De l’allocution de Monsieur Rodrigue CHAOU, Ministre délégué auprès du Ministre de l’Economie et des Finances, chargé du Budget et de la Fonction publique, il ressort que le Bénin a fait des performances historiques sur les trois composantes de l’OBS 2025. 

• En matière de transparence budgétaire, le Bénin obtient 77 points sur 100, se classant 1er pays en Afrique francophone, 2e en Afrique Subsaharienne juste derrière l’Afrique du Sud et 5e au niveau mondial; 

• En matière de Participation publique, le Bénin obtient 52 points sur 100, faisant du pays le 1er en Afrique Subsaharienne et le 2e au plan mondial juste derrière le Brésil ; 

• Sur le critère de contrôle budgétaire, le Bénin obtient 72 points sur 100, et occupe le 2e rang en Afrique Subsaharienne et le 11e au plan mondial. 

Cette performance est d’autant plus remarquable que le Bénin ne comptabilisait qu’un score de 1 sur 100 en transparence budgétaire en 2012, enregistrant ainsi une progression de 76 points en treize ans. Pour le Ministre Rodrigue CHAOU, le message du Bénin tient désormais en une phrase : « De la transparence passive de 2012, nous bâtissons aujourd’hui la transparence active. Je voudrais réaffirmer l’engagement du Chef de l’Etat et de son Gouvernement à poursuivre résolument la mise en œuvre des réformes ambitieuses en matière de gouvernance budgétaire et citoyenne. À Social Watch Bénin, aux autres ONG, aux médias et aux PTF: continuons d’exiger plus de nous-mêmes », a souligné le Ministre CHAOU. 

« Pour le Bénin, les résultats de l’OBS 2025 reflètent les progrès remarquables accomplis, les forces à consolider et les défis à relever », a déclaré Monsieur Rigobert OROU, Président du Conseil d’Administration de Social Watch Bénin. 

Quant à Madame Rike SOHN, Cheffe de Coopération de l’Ambassade d’Allemagne au Benin, elle réaffirme l’engagement des PTF à toujours accompagner le Bénin pour des performances encore plus historiques. 

Hormis les résultats de l’OBS 2025 pour le Bénin, l’International Budget Partnership (IBP), le dispositif et la méthodologie d’évaluation de l’OBS ont été présentés aux participants. La séance a pris fin par la remise officielle des documents de recommandations de l’OBS 2025 aux représentants de l’Exécutif, du Législatif, et de la Cour des Comptes.

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

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President Boakai Honors Liberian Students for Wining Regional Intellectual Property Championship

Source: APO – Report:

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The Regional Intellectual Property (IP) Club Competition held in Harare, Zimbabwe, aimed at promoting intellectual property awareness among young people and encourage innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship at the secondary school level across Africa. 

The competition provided a platform for students to showcase their understanding of intellectual property rights, including, patents, trademarks, copyrights, industrial designs, and the role of intellectual property in fostering innovation and economic development through presentations, quizzing, debates, and other academic activities designed to test knowledge and practical application of intellectual property concepts.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by intellectual property institutions and partners across Africa to cultivate a new generation of innovators by introducing intellectual property education into schools through the development of creative solutions to societal challenges while understanding the importance of protecting and commercializing innovative ideas.

The students, members of the Intellectual Property Club of Maretha International Preparatory High School who represented Liberia, were received and recognized by the President following their outstanding performance at the regional event, emerging as the Champions of the Regional Intellectual Property of Africa.

Speaking during the recognition ceremony, President Boakai praised the students for their remarkable achievement and for serving as ambassadors of Liberia on the international stage. He described their success as a testament to the talent, creativity, and innovative potential of Liberian youth.

President Boakai pointed out that the students’ accomplishment aligns with his Administration’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, especially its emphasis on education, youth empowerment, innovation, and human capacity development.

The President encouraged young Liberians to pursue excellence in science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, stressing that the country’s future depends largely on the ability of its youth to develop solutions that contribute to national growth and development.

The Director General of the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO), which facilitated the students’ participation in the competition, Honorable Garmia Koboi commended the President for recognizing the young champions and reaffirmed the LIPO’s commitment to promoting intellectual property education across the country.

Director Koboi asserted that the victory demonstrates the importance of investing in intellectual property awareness and innovation among young people, adding that such initiatives help prepare students to compete and succeed in an increasingly knowledge-based global economy.

– on behalf of Republic of Liberia: Executive Mansion.

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La Société internationale islamique de financement du commerce (ITFC) renforce ses partenariats avec les pays membres lors de la troisième journée des Assemblées annuelles 2026 du Groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Société internationale islamique de financement du commerce (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), membre du Groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), a poursuivi la concrétisation de son dialogue stratégique en partenariats tangibles lors de la troisième journée des Assemblées annuelles 2026 du Groupe de la BID à Bakou. Cette dynamique a été marquée par la signature d’un Accord-cadre d’un montant de 750 millions de dollars US avec la République de Côte d’Ivoire.

À la suite de la cérémonie officielle d’ouverture et de la séance plénière, les activités de l’ITFC se sont concentrées sur l’accompagnement des priorités de ses pays membres afin de soutenir la croissance économique, renforcer la résilience et accroître la participation du secteur privé. Les échanges ont porté sur des secteurs stratégiques tels que l’énergie, la sécurité alimentaire, la santé, l’agriculture, les exportations et le développement des petites et moyennes entreprises (PME).

M. Adeeb Yousuf Al Aama, Directeur général de l’ITFC, a tenu une série de réunions de haut niveau avec des délégations de pays membres et des partenaires, notamment l’Ouzbékistan, la Côte d’Ivoire, l’Égypte, la Mauritanie ainsi que le Fonds de l’OPEP pour le développement international. Les discussions ont porté sur l’élargissement des financements, le renforcement des cadres de coopération et l’accélération de la mise en œuvre des initiatives de financement du commerce et de coopération commerciale régionale, en adéquation avec les priorités nationales de développement.

Signature d’accord

Côte d’Ivoire : un Accord-cadre de 750 millions de dollars US pour soutenir les priorités nationales de développement

L’ITFC a signé un Accord-cadre d’un montant de 750 millions de dollars US avec la République de Côte d’Ivoire, ouvrant une nouvelle phase de coopération couvrant la période 2026–2029.

L’accord a été signé par S.E. Dr Souleymane Diarrassouba, Ministre du Plan et du Développement et Gouverneur de la BID pour la République de Côte d’Ivoire, et M. Adeeb Yousuf Al Aama, Directeur général de l’ITFC.

En cohérence avec le Plan national de développement de la Côte d’Ivoire, cet Accord-cadre soutiendra des secteurs prioritaires tels que l’énergie, la sécurité alimentaire, la santé, les exportations agricoles stratégiques ainsi que l’accès du secteur privé au financement du commerce.

Ce nouvel Accord-cadre s’inscrit dans le prolongement d’un partenariat de longue date entre l’ITFC et la Côte d’Ivoire, dont les financements approuvés cumulés dépassent 751 millions de dollars US, au titre des opérations souveraines et des opérations en faveur du secteur privé. Il fait également suite à la mise en œuvre réussie de l’Accord-cadre précédent, d’un montant de 250 millions de dollars US, signé en mai 2023, illustrant à la fois la forte demande de solutions de financement du commerce et l’efficacité de cette coopération.

La troisième journée des Assemblées annuelles a réaffirmé le rôle de l’ITFC en tant que bras de financement du commerce du Groupe de la BID, transformant un dialogue de haut niveau en partenariats concrets au service du développement durable et de la coopération économique régionale.

Alors que de nouvelles signatures d’accords, annonces de partenariats et activités médiatiques sont prévues lors de la dernière journée des Assemblées annuelles, l’ITFC continue de placer le financement du commerce, le développement du commerce et la connectivité régionale au cœur de son engagement en faveur de ses pays membres.

Distribué par APO Group pour International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

Pour toute demande des médias :
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Téléphone : +44 (0)20 7796 4133

Contacter l’ITFC :
Tél. : +966 12 646 8337
Fax : +966 12 637 1064
E-mail : ITFC@itfc-idb.org

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Twitter (X) : @ITFCCORP
Facebook : @ITFCCORP
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À propos de la Société Internationale Islamique de Financement du Commerce (ITFC) :
La Société Internationale Islamique de Financement du Commerce (ITFC) est un membre du Groupe de la Banque Islamique de Développement (BID). Elle a été créée dans le but premier de promouvoir le commerce entre les pays membres de l’OCI, ce qui contribuerait en fin de compte à l’objectif global d’amélioration des conditions socio-économiques des populations à travers le monde. Ayant commencé ses activités en janvier 2008, l’ITFC a fourni 96 milliards de dollars de financement aux pays membres de l’OCI, ce qui en fait le principal fournisseur de solutions commerciales pour les besoins de ces pays membres. Avec pour mission de devenir un catalyseur du développement du commerce pour les pays membres de l’OCI et au-delà, la Société aide les entités des pays membres à obtenir un meilleur accès au financement du commerce et leur fournit les outils nécessaires au renforcement des capacités liées au commerce, ce qui leur permettrait d’être compétitifs sur le marché mondial.

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International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) Advances Member Country Partnerships on Day 3 of the 2026 Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Annual Meetings

Source: APO

The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, continued to translate strategic dialogue into concrete partnerships on Day 3 of the 2026 IsDB Group Annual Meetings in Baku, highlighted by the signing of a US$750 million Framework Agreement with the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire.

Following the official Opening Ceremony and Plenary Session, ITFC’s engagements focused on advancing member country priorities that support economic growth, strengthen resilience and expand private sector participation. Discussions covered key sectors including energy, food security, healthcare, agriculture, exports and SME development.

Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al Aama, Chief Executive Officer of ITFC, held a series of high-level meetings with member country delegations and partners, including Uzbekistan, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Mauritania, and the OPEC Fund for International Development. The discussions focused on expanding financing, strengthening cooperation frameworks and accelerating the implementation of trade finance and regional trade cooperation initiatives aligned with national development priorities.

Signing Agreement

Côte d’Ivoire: US$750 Million Framework Agreement to Support National Development Priorities

ITFC signed a US$750 million Framework Agreement with the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, establishing a new phase of cooperation for the period 2026–2029.

The agreement was signed by H.E. Dr. Souleymane Diarrassouba, Minister of Planning and Development and IsDB Governor for the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, and Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al Aama, Chief Executive Officer of ITFC.

In alignment with Côte d’Ivoire’s National Development Plan, the framework will support priority sectors including energy, food security, healthcare, strategic agricultural exports and private sector access to trade finance.

The new agreement builds on a longstanding partnership between ITFC and Côte d’Ivoire, where cumulative financing approvals have exceeded US$751 million across sovereign and private sector operations. It also follows the successful utilization of the previous US$250 million Framework Agreement signed in May 2023, demonstrating the demand for trade finance solutions and the effectiveness of the partnership.

Day 3 of the Annual Meetings reinforced ITFC’s role as the IsDB Group’s trade finance arm, converting high-level dialogue into actionable partnerships that support sustainable development and regional economic cooperation.

With additional signings, partnership announcements and media engagements scheduled for the final day of the Annual Meetings, ITFC continues to place trade finance, trade development, and regional connectivity at the centre of its engagement with member countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

For all media enquiries:
Email: ITFCGlobal@hudsonsandler.com
Phone number: +44 (0)20 7796 4133 

Contact ITFC:
Tel: +966 12 646 8337
Fax: +966 12 637 1064
E-mail: ITFC@itfc-idb.org  

Social Media: 
Twitter: @ITFCCORP (https://apo-opa.co/4evgVFP)
Facebook: @ITFCCORP (https://apo-opa.co/4vpcbcc)
LinkedIn: International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (https://apo-opa.co/3SgCwuo)

About the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is the trade finance arm of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. It was established with the primary objective of advancing trade among OIC member countries, which would ultimately contribute to the overarching goal of improving the socio-economic conditions of the people across the world. Commencing operations in January 2008, ITFC has provided more than US$96 billion of financing to OIC member countries, making it the leading provider of trade solutions for these member countries’ needs. With a mission to become a catalyst for trade development for OIC member countries and beyond, the Corporation helps entities in member countries gain better access to trade finance and provides them with the necessary trade-related capacity-building tools, which would enable them to successfully compete in the global market. 

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Merck Foundation Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and 12 First Ladies of Africa and Asia inaugurate the 13th Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2026

Source: APO

  • Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO together with the First Ladies of Angola, Botswana, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Kenya, Liberia, Maldives, Mozambique, Nigeria and São Tomé and Príncipe inaugurated the 13th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2026.
  • Link to Live Stream of Inaugural Session of 13th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2026: https://apo-opa.co/4erEWz7

​Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 13th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2026 on 18th and 19th June, through an online videoconference. The annual conference was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary along with The First Ladies of 12 African and Asian countries, who joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation, President of “More Than a Mother” and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary emphasized, “It is a great privilege to welcome our distinguished Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers, The First Ladies of Africa and Asia, who are the Ambassadors of our ‘More Than a Mother’ campaign to the 13th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary.

Together, we exchanged valuable experiences and engaged in meaningful discussions on the impact of our programs, which are aimed at transforming patient care and raising awareness of a wide range of critical social and health issues.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees added, “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the First Ladies of Africa and Asia who joined us as Guests of Honor, as well as to the Ministers, healthcare experts, policymakers, government officials, academia, media representatives, and all our partners for their unwavering support and collaboration. At Merck Foundation, we remain committed to improving health and well-being by building healthcare capacity and providing access to quality and equitable healthcare across Africa, Asia, and beyond. Together, we will continue advancing our vision of a world where everyone can lead a healthy and happy life.”

The First Ladies of African and Asian Countries, who joined the 13th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary are:

  • H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO, First Lady of the Republic of Angola
  • H.E. Mrs. KAONE BOKO, First Lady of the Republic of Botswana
  • H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde
  • H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, First Lady of the Central African Republic
  • H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, First Lady of the Gabonese Republic
  • H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia
  • H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO, First Lady of the Republic of Kenya
  • H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, First Lady of the Republic of Liberia
  • H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives
  • H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO, First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique
  • H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
  • H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe

Dr. Rasha Kelej shared, “I am proud to share that Merck Foundation has provided more than 2600 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties. Many of our Merck Foundation alumni have become the first specialists in their countries. Together with our Ambassadors and partners, we are making history and transforming the patient care landscape across Africa, Asia, and beyond.”

She further added, “During our Conference, we also marked World Infertility Awareness Month, observed annually in June, through our historic “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” campaign, dedicated to empowering infertile and childless women by providing access to information, health, education, and change of mindset.

I am pleased to share that, of the 2,600+ scholarships provided by Merck Foundation, more than 800 scholarships have been for healthcare providers in the fields of Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women’s Health, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, and Family Medicine. These scholarships are helping strengthen fertility care services and improving access to women’s health across 42 countries.”

During the 13th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, two important occasions were marked; the 9th Anniversary of Merck Foundation and 14 years of Merck Foundation’s development programs that were started in 2012.

On the first day, the Inaugural Session of the 13th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary took place, featuring a high-level panel of the participating First Ladies of Africa and Asia.

The Day 1 was attended by over 800 participants including healthcare providers, policymakers, and media from 57 English-, French-, and Portuguese-speaking countries. Additionally, the conference was live streamed on social media, with over 220K+ social media viewers, further amplifying the impact and extending access to knowledge and dialogue across continents.

The Day 2 of the conference will have two parallel scientific sessions covering Oncology and Fertility Topics.

The 13th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary is streamed live on the Social Media Handles of Merck Foundation and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:

@Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4ek0tcW), X (https://apo-opa.co/3SPp0Op),Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4fVeLSn), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4euc5bZ).

@Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4fPqv91), X (https://apo-opa.co/4vUWV6y), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4eC9JYL), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4eySGH0).

Link to the Facebook live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4erEWz7

Merck Foundation is transforming the patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

  • 2600+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for healthcare providers from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

  • 4000+ Media Representatives from more than 42 countries trained by Merck Foundation to better raise awareness about different social and health issues.
  • 8 Different Awards launched annually for best Media coverage, Song, Films, and Fashion contributing to raise awareness and break the silence.
  • Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa in English, French, Portuguese, and local languages.
  • 9 Children’s Storybooks in four languages – English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili.
  • 6 Awareness Animation Films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education and prevention and early detection of Diabetes, Hypertension & Cancer.
  • Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community.
  • 1550+ Annual Scholarships awarded to African schoolgirls from 21 countries, covering school fees and other essential educational expenses, including books, uniforms and transport, to help them to complete their studies and empower them to reach their full potential.
    • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 9 Million Followers.

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!
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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4oDkuyC

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/4ek0tcW), X (https://apo-opa.co/3SPp0Op), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4fVeLSn), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4euc5bZ), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4ehMsfJ) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4eSuzUQ).

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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Bafana Bafana show mettle in hard-fought draw

Source: Government of South Africa

Bafana Bafana show mettle in hard-fought draw

The South African government has sent its congratulations to Bafana Bafana on their hard-fought draw against Czechia during the FIFA World Cup match today. 

“The draw is a testament to the determination and fighting spirit of the players, coaching staff and support team, and reflects the talent and potential of South African football on the global stage. 

“As the nation celebrates this achievement, let us continue to cheer our national team to even greater success throughout the tournament,” government said in a statement on Thursday.

South Africans have been encouraged to wear green and gold on Bafana Fridays to show support and stand united behind the boys as they head to their next match. 

Placed in Group A, Bafana Bafana’s 2026 campaign features a 2-0 opening loss to Mexico, followed by tonight’s critical 1-1 draw with Czechia. – SAnews.gov.za

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Qatar Reaffirms Commitment to Advancing Education System Under National Vision 2030

Source: Government of Qatar

Geneva | June 18, 2026

The State of Qatar reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to modernizing the national educational ecosystem in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education’s 2024 – 2030 strategy.

The remarks were delivered by Third Secretary of the Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maryam Al Kuwari during an interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to education. The session was held under Item 3 of the agenda at the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Al Kuwari said the Qatari efforts focus on fostering innovation, upgrading teacher competencies, ensuring equal educational opportunities, and integrating advanced technologies in line with international best practices.

She stated that Qatar views education not merely as a vehicle for acquiring knowledge and skills, but as an essential instrument for building inclusive and cohesive societies. She emphasized that Qatari educational policies and curricula are designed to entrench the values of dialogue, respect for diversity, and the rejection of discrimination, hatred, and exclusion, thereby preparing future generations for constructive civic engagement and peaceful coexistence.

On the international stage, Al Kuwari highlighted Qatar’s sustained efforts to safeguard the right to education in conflict-affected regions. She noted that the Doha-based Education Above All (EAA) Foundation has successfully provided quality educational opportunities to more than 16 million children and youth across more than 60 countries globally.

Concluding her statement, Al Kuwari expressed Qatar’s appreciation for the Special Rapporteur’s latest report, welcoming its emphasis on the role of curricula, teaching methodologies, and assessment systems in achieving globally recognized educational objectives that promote tolerance, mutual respect, and peace. She renewed Qatar’s commitment to partnering with the international community to advance comprehensive, high-quality education as a cornerstone for sustainable development and a culture of peace.

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Qatar Participates in Vision Golfe 2026 in Paris

Source: Government of Qatar

Paris | June 18, 2026

The State of Qatar participated on Thursday in Vision Golfe (Gulf Vision) 2026, held in Paris under the patronage of HE President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron.

The fourth edition of the forum, convened under the theme “From Cooperation to Transformation,” focused on the shifting dynamics of Euro-Gulf economic relations. Qatar was represented at the event by HE Ambassador to the French Republic Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al-Thani.

Qatar’s high-level participation underscores the expanding strategic and economic partnership between Doha and Paris, particularly as global trade undergoes rapid realignments driven by geopolitical shifts in the energy and technology sectors.

The event drew senior representatives from prominent Qatari economic institutions and strategic entities. The forum featured targeted panels and networking sessions aimed at deepening engagement with French enterprises, exploring cross-border investment opportunities, and establishing long-term commercial partnerships.

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Joint Statement by Eight Arab, Islamic Countries Condemn Escalating Settler Violence against Palestinians in Occupied West Bank

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | June 18, 2026

The Foreign Ministers of the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Indonesia, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the Republic of Türkiye condemn in the strongest term the continued and escalating settler violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including the recent attacks on the Grand Mosque in the village of Jaljulia and Al-Farouq Mosque in the village of Mazra’a al-Nubani, north of Ramallah.

The ministers affirm that these attacks constitute a blatant violation of the sanctity of places of worship and religious sites, as well as international law, including international humanitarian law and relevant United Nations resolutions.

The foreign ministers reiterate their absolute rejection of these reprehensible attacks perpetrated by Israeli settlers, alongside the continued unilateral and illegal Israeli measures in the occupied Palestinian territory that fuel instability, violence, and extremism, while undermining international efforts to achieve peace. The ministers hold Israel, the occupying power, fully responsible for these attacks.

They renew their call on the international community to uphold its legal and moral responsibilities to compel Israel to halt the dangerous escalation in the occupied West Bank, end the illegal practices, stop settler violence, hold the perpetrators of these crimes accountable, and ensure they do not escape punishment.

The foreign ministers also reaffirm their unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people and their steadfast support for the realization of their legitimate and inalienable national rights, foremost of which is their right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Furthermore, they express their support for all efforts aimed at ending the Israeli occupation and achieving a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution, in accordance with international law, relevant UN resolutions, and the Arab Peace Initiative.

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L’histoire des réformes en Angola adaptée au grand écran

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le remarquable redressement structurel du secteur énergétique angolais passe officiellement du livre au grand écran. La société de production internationale Soyini Tales Inc. – dirigée par sa fondatrice Tahira Francis – a lancé la production d’un documentaire de grande envergure s’inspirant des analyses contenues dans le best-seller Crude Oil : Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola, écrit par NJ Ayuk.

Le tournage du documentaire débutera la semaine prochaine en Angola, où l’équipe de production mènera des entretiens, effectuera des visites de sites et réalisera des prises de vue sur le terrain dans des lieux clés liés à l’énergie et au développement économique.

Au cœur du documentaire se trouve un récit captivant s’étendant sur dix ans, présenté de manière unique à travers les expériences vécues par trois générations d’Angolais. Ce récit cinématographique retracera systématiquement la trajectoire complexe du pays, passant d’une ère d’expansion alimentée par le pétrole à une grave contraction macroéconomique, puis à la phase actuelle de revitalisation du secteur énergétique guidée par les politiques publiques.

Le documentaire présentera des témoignages humains sur la réforme institutionnelle systémique, en explorant comment le pays a réussi à stabiliser son seuil de production crucial à un million de barils par jour. Il retracera comment l’Angola a examiné en toute honnêteté ses propres vulnérabilités économiques, rejeté les discours extérieurs et choisi activement de reconstruire l’ensemble de son cadre réglementaire de l’intérieur. Le documentaire détaillera également les mécanismes de marché complexes qui ont permis de rétablir la confiance des investisseurs, offrant ainsi un cadre de référence faisant autorité et hautement visuel aux investisseurs internationaux du secteur de l’énergie qui suivent les flux mondiaux en amont.

Le public comprendra comment ces politiques à grande échelle se traduisent directement en expériences vécues sur les champs pétroliers, dans les salles de réunion et au sein des foyers. S’éloignant des statistiques, le documentaire montrera comment une détermination réglementaire peut réussir à briser le cycle d’expansion et de récession qui afflige depuis longtemps les nations africaines riches en ressources.

Surtout, le récit mettra en avant les principaux acteurs africains du changement qui ont mené ce redressement, en détaillant l’architecture politique du président João Lourenço, la discipline commerciale instaurée au sein de Sonangol par Sebastião Gaspar Martins, ainsi que l’efficacité réglementaire impulsée par Paulino Jerónimo au sein de l’Agence nationale du pétrole, du gaz et des biocarburants, le concessionnaire national.

Au-delà de la politique d’État, le documentaire mettra en avant les acteurs locaux essentiels qui favorisent les chaînes d’approvisionnement spécialisées et les opérations industrielles. Cela inclut la logistique maritime et la gestion du fret par l’intermédiaire de João Filipe chez Cabship, ainsi que l’ingénierie en amont et les services liés aux carburants dirigés par Janice Faria chez Enagol. De plus, le documentaire explorera le leadership tactique des entreprises, en soulignant le travail de Francisco Monteiro dans les achats et l’approvisionnement en produits chimiques chez Brimont, ainsi que le conseil stratégique en matière de champs pétroliers et la défense des intérêts commerciaux assurés par Bráulio de Brito chez Tradinter. Ces personnalités démontrent comment les entreprises locales captent et conservent activement de la valeur au sein d’une économie énergétique en pleine modernisation.

« L’histoire de l’Angola est un puissant modèle de résilience, prouvant qu’un redressement structurel est possible lorsqu’il est porté par le peuple et les visionnaires d’une nation », a déclaré Francis. « Ce documentaire capture cette transformation vitale en temps réel, offrant aux investisseurs et au public du monde entier un regard authentique sur ce à quoi ressemble la véritable souveraineté économique. »

Après sa première très attendue, le documentaire sera diffusé aux États-Unis et en Europe, ainsi que sur les principales plateformes de streaming numérique. La stratégie de distribution positionne le film à la fois comme un documentaire narratif et comme une référence visuelle destinée aux investisseurs, s’adressant à un public international qui suit de près les transitions énergétiques africaines, les flux d’investissement en amont et la stabilité de la production à long terme.

Bien qu’Ayuk soit l’auteur de plusieurs ouvrages influents sur l’économie énergétique africaine – tels que Big Barrels, Billions at Play et A Just Transition – ce projet marque sa toute première œuvre littéraire à être adaptée en long métrage documentaire. En fin de compte, cette production sert de modèle axé sur les investisseurs pour l’ensemble du continent. Elle démontre qu’une solidité économique durable s’obtient lorsqu’une nation donne les moyens d’agir à sa propre population, met en place des institutions réglementaires transparentes et transforme activement ses richesses limitées en hydrocarbures en une croissance nationale durable et généralisée ainsi qu’en industrialisation.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.