Nouvel an 2026 : le Chef de l’État reçoit les vœux des professionnels des médias et des personnels de la Présidence de la République

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Après l’administration centrale, les confessions religieuses et les institutions, le couple présidentiel a reçu ce jour au Palais Rénovation, les vœux de nouvel an des professionnels des médias ainsi que ceux des personnels de la Présidence de la République.

S’exprimant au nom de la corporation, Monsieur Désiré Ename, représentant les médias , a salué une fois de plus les avancées structurelles et sociales enregistrées dans le monde de la communication depuis l’avènement des nouvelles autorités le 30 août 2023. Il s’agit entre autres de l’octroi de 500 postes budgétaires aux agents publics de la communication, de la restauration des infrastructures audiovisuelles telles que Gabon 24 , Africa N1 et radio 9 .

Toutefois, il a sollicité du chef de l’Etat la réhabilitation d’autres structures audiovisuelles à l’instar de la maison Georges Rawiri, le siège de l’ IGIS et de l’ Agence Gabonaise de presse.
les professionnels des médias ont sollicité des autorités étatiques et des partenaires étrangers, un accompagnement par la publicité institutionnelle et un accès aux sources d’information.

Retournant ses voeux aux professionnels de la presse, le Chef de l’État les a félicités pour le travail abattu au quotidien et les a exhortés à faire preuve de professionnalisme, de liberté responsable et de rigueur dans le traitement et la diffusion de l’information.

Prenant acte des sollicitations, le Chef de l’État les a rassurés de la prise en compte de celles-ci . Aussi, à l’instar de la Maison Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema (Gabon 24) et Africa N1, les autres structures connaîtront une réhabilitation progressive.

Au nom des personnels de la Présidence de la République, et conformément à la coutume républicaine, le Secrétaire Général de ladite institution a souhaité les vœux au Président de la République avant d’exprimer les remerciements de l’ensemble des personnels, pour la confiance renouvelée.

le Secrétaire Général est par ailleurs revenu sur la place importante des agents qui sont la base arrière destinée à assurer le ravitaillement en idées, suggestions et cheville ouvrière à l’entière disposition du Chef de l’État pour la réalisation de son illustre action de développement de notre pays.

“Nous sommes tous liés par un destin commun qui consiste à exécuter efficacement nos tâches et faire preuve de loyauté au Chef de l’État. Nous devons cultiver la réserve, la discrétion et la dignité en tout temps et en tout lieu” a-t-elle déclaré.

A l’écoute, le Président la République a félicité le personnel pour son dévouement , son attachement , son sens du patriotisme et son accompagnement durant la Transition jusqu’à la mise en place des nouvelles institutions républicaines.

Toutefois, le Chef de l’État a fustigé les comportements déviants constatés au sein de l’institution. Il s’agit entre autres du trafic d’influence, de l’escroquerie , de l’abus de confiance et de la corruption . Il a appelé les agents à faire preuve de probité, d’éthique, de déontologie, de diligence et d’objectivité dans le traitement des affaires courantes

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République Gabonaise.

Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Call from Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, January 11, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani on Sunday received a phone call from HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the sisterly Republic of Iraq, Fuad Hussein.

During the call, they reviewed bilateral relations and ways to support and strengthen them, discussed the latest regional developments, and addressed a host of topics of mutual interest.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated Qatar’s keenness on supporting the Republic of Iraq in achieving the aspirations of its people for stability, development, and prosperity.

Strengthening Gender Equality Commitments Amid Global Shifts: United Nations (UN) Women Deputy Executive Director to Visit Zimbabwe

Source: APO


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United Nations Assistant Secretary General and UN Women’s Deputy Executive Director Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda will undertake a high-level mission to Zimbabwe from 12–16 January 2026, joined by the East and Southern AfricaDeputy Regional Director Adama Moussa . The visit comes at a pivotal moment for gender equality efforts, as global reforms and shifting donor priorities reshape the development landscape.

This strategic engagement aims to reaffirm UN Women’s commitment to Zimbabwe, strengthen partnerships, and mobilize collective action to safeguard and advance progress on gender equality and women’s empowerment. The visit will spotlight Zimbabwe’s policy advances and explore pathways for sustaining impactful programs amid funding transitions.

Key Objectives

  • Normative Advocacy: Promote integration of global gender frameworks (CEDAW, Beijing Platform, SDG 5) into national policies.

  • UN System Coordination: Reinforce gender mainstreaming and accountability across UN agencies.

  • Programmatic Alignment: Support alignment of UN Women’s Strategic Note with national priorities and identify joint programming opportunities.

  • Partnership Building: Deepen collaboration with government, civil society, and donors to sustain gender equality efforts.

Expected Outcomes

  • Renewed government commitments to accelerate gender equality implementation.

  • Strengthened UN coordination on gender mainstreaming.

  • Clear priorities for scaling UN Women’s interventions.

  • Enhanced donor engagement and resource mobilization.

  • Reinforced partnerships with women’s rights organizations.

Joint Press Conference

The Deputy Executive Director will host a joint press briefing with the UN Resident Coordinator in Zimbabwe to share key insights from the mission and highlight collaborative efforts to advance gender equality.

Date: [ Friday 16 January  Time: [ 11:45 pm] Venue: [ Block 11 Arundel Office Park UN Complex] Media RSVP: [ 0773282485 ]

Notes for Editors 

Zimbabwe has made notable strides in gender policy reform, including the adoption of the National Gender Policy (2025), the GBV Strategy (2023–2030), and the Marriages Act (2022). However, challenges persist in women’s political representation, economic empowerment, and GBV response systems. UN Women’s country program—now operating with a projected budget of USD 2.8 million for 2026 focuses on ending violence against women, promoting women’s leadership, economic empowerment, and advancing women’s peace and security.

This visit underscores UN Women’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals through inclusive, gender-transformative programming.

Media Contact: For inquiries, please contact: Innocent Katsande, Communications Officer. [ Click to reveal ]

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN Women – Africa.

Élections du 11 janvier 2026 : Le couple présidentiel aux urnes, un exemple et un message fort pour la démocratie

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Dans le cadre des élections législatives et communales de 2026, le Président de la République, Monsieur Patrice TALON, accompagné de son épouse, Madame Claudine TALON, a accompli son devoir citoyen ce dimanche 11 janvier 2026. Le couple présidentiel s’est rendu dans son centre de vote à l’EPP Charles Guillot de Zongo pour prendre part à ce rendez-vous démocratique majeur, marquant ainsi son attachement aux valeurs républicaines et au processus électoral. 

Par ce geste, le Chef de l’État a, une nouvelle fois, donné l’exemple, en se soumettant comme tout citoyen aux règles du suffrage universel. Ce moment, largement relayé sur les réseaux sociaux et les médias, a suscité de nombreuses réactions, notamment des messages saluant la simplicité, la responsabilité et le sens du devoir du Président et de son épouse. 

Au-delà de l’acte symbolique, cette participation du Couple présidentiel s’inscrit dans un contexte de mobilisation nationale autour des élections, appelant les citoyens à exercer librement leur droit de vote. Elle réaffirme l’importance de l’engagement civique et de la participation de tous à la consolidation de la démocratie au Bénin.

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

President Ramaphosa arrives in the United Arab Emirates for an official visit

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, 12 January 2026, arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ASDW).

The ADSW 2026 held under the theme “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”, brings together the global sustainability community to ignite impactful dialogues and bold ideas aimed at fostering cross-sector collaboration and delivering breakthrough solutions to advance sustainable development worldwide.

On Tuesday, 13 January 2026, President Ramaphosa will hold bilateral talks with Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, ahead of the ADSW Opening Ceremony.

The President will attend the opening ceremony as well as the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards Ceremony, which celebrates 11 winners driving real-world impact across the categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools.

In advancing discussion on economic transformation, ethical governance, and youth empowerment, the President will address the Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S) Forum and Hub, under the theme Leading the Just Transition: Youth, Skills, and Inclusive Growth.

The President will also participate in the Heads of State Panel discussion on the topic: “A vision for Global Energy”. In addition, he will also participate in a high level session titled: Next Leap: Global South Infrastructure, which will focus on accelerating bankable, scalable infrastructure investment across the Global South.

South Africa maintains cordial bilateral relations with the UAE, characterised by regular high-level visits as well as robust economic cooperation, for the mutual benefit of both countries. The UAE is also a major investor in the South African economy across various sectors such as transport, logistics and renewable energy.

During his visit, the President will also engage with leading captains of the industry and business leaders to promote investment and strengthen collaboration.

The President is accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola; Minister in The Presidency, Ms Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau; and the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi.

PROGRAMME OF THE PRESIDENT

Tuesday, 13 January 2026

ADSW Opening Ceremony and Zayed Sustainability Prize Ceremony: 07h00 – 09h00 SAST

Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S) Forum and Hub: 12h10 – 12h15 SAST

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026: Heads of State Panel: 12h35 – 13h10

Next Leap: Global South Infrastructure: 13h30 – 14h00 SAST

ADSW proceedings can be followed on https://youtube.com/@adswagenda?si=PgEde1II–HEPSoI

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Chinese Ambassador pays courtesy call on Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora

Source: APO – Report:

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Chinese Ambassador to the Seychelles, H.E. Ms. Lin Nan paid a courtesy call on Mr. Barry Faure, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora on Friday 9th January, to congratulate him on his recent appointment.

During their meeting, she expressed her commitment to working closely with the Minister to strengthen the strategic partnership between China and Seychelles. Ambassador Lin Nan also invited the Minister to join the Spring Festival activities slated for early February 2026.

Both diplomats expressed optimism about the future of Seychelles-China relations and the potential for further collaboration under the framework of the existing bilateral agreements.

The Minister has reaffirmed Seychelles’ unwavering support for the “One China Policy”, recognising it as a crucial principle that underpins global peace, stability and collaboration among nations.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Republic of Seychelles.

Russia–Seychelles relations deepen following ministerial forum in Cairo

Source: APO – Report:

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The Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Mr. Barry Faure, received the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Seychelles, H.E. Mr. Artem Khozin, at Maison Quéau de Quinssy on Friday, 9 January 2026, to discuss the Second Ministerial Conference of the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum, which Minister Faure attended in December 2025 in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt.

During the Conference, Minister Faure held bilateral talks with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, H.E. Mr. Sergei Lavrov. The discussions reaffirmed the commitment of both sides to continue strengthening economic and technical cooperation for the mutual benefit of the two countries.

The meeting further addressed aspects of bilateral cooperation. Ambassador Khozin noted that two Russian vessels are expected to berth at Port Victoria later this month, reflecting ongoing engagement between Seychelles and the Russian Federation.

The two sides also exchanged views on areas where Seychelles could benefit from Russian expertise, including clean energy, as well as on enhancing cooperation within multilateral fora.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Republic of Seychelles.

President Ramaphosa to attend UAE summit

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa to attend UAE summit

President Cyril Ramaphosa will participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday.

The President will undertake an official visit to the UAE from 12-13 January 2026 at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

“The ADSW summit brings together the Heads of State and Government, the private sector leaders and civil society to promote multi-stakeholder collaboration, drive large-scale systemic change, and shape the next era of global sustainability,” the Presidency said on Sunday.

The ADSW is an annual event hosted in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. The 2026 event will be held from 11-15 January 2026, under the theme: “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”.

South Africa maintains cordial bilateral relations with the UAE, characterised by regular high-level visits as well as robust economic cooperation, for the mutual benefit of both countries. The UAE is also a major investor in the South African economy across various sectors such as transport, logistics and renewable energy.

In 2024, bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$5,22 billion.

South Africa’s exports to the UAE totalled US$2,68 billion, reflecting an increase of 5.53% compared to 2023. Imports from the UAE amounted to US$2.96 billion, representing a decline of 25.8% over the same period. 

“The strong trade relations underscore the importance of the UAE as a strategic economic partner for South Africa in the Middle East and highlight ongoing opportunities to deepen trade and investment cooperation between the two countries.”

President Ramaphosa will participate in the Heads of State and Government segment, as well as other high-level sessions of the summit. During his visit, the President will also engage with leading captains of the industry and business leaders to promote investment and strengthen collaboration.

The President will be accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau; and the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Western Cape Education ready for the 2026 school year

Source: Government of South Africa

Western Cape Education ready for the 2026 school year

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has expressed its readiness for the 2026 academic year, with schools set to reopen on Wednesday, 14 January.

“The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is prepared and ready for the start of the 2026 school year. Educators and school-based staff will return on Monday, 12 January 2026, and learners will enter the school gates on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, to begin their first term,” the provincial department said.

It further added that the beginning of a new school year sees hundreds of thousands of young people starting their learning journey, which is the first step towards independence and economic inclusion.

“By ensuring that their children are well-prepared for the school year, as well as every school day, parents are giving their children the strongest foundation for becoming independent and thriving adults.

“We urge parents to ensure they are fully prepared for the start of the school year by reading all communication from their child’s school carefully. Notices often include important details such as stationery lists, uniform requirements, and other essentials,” said the WCED.

The WCED has procured and delivered essential items well in advance to ensure teaching and learning in schools can begin immediately.  It said that schools were able to order top-up textbooks between 12 and 23 May 2025, with full delivery completed by October 2025, amounting to R58.7 million.

Stationery for non-section 21 schools valued at R25.3 million was delivered by November 2025, and an additional R31.6 million worth of goods were delivered by December 2025.

“We are also ready to respond to new requirements that may arise due to late applications or unexpected demand.”

Late applications
The WCED is currently processing a significant number of late school applications for the 2026 academic year.
“As of 7 January 2026, the WCED has successfully placed 180 960 (96% of) learners for whom applications were received for Grade R, 1, and 8 for the 2026 school year.

Placement is still in progress for 7 540 learners in these grades. However, late applications continue to affect placement progress. 
Since 1 November 2025, the WCED has received 10 666 late applications:
•    November 2025: 5 873 new late applications
•    December 2025: new late 4 035 applications
•    January 2026 (up to 7 January): 758 new extremely late applications

“Late applications create considerable challenges for the WCED. They disrupt planning for learner placement, resource allocation, and staffing, and place additional strain on the department to place learners immediately during a period when schools are closed for the holidays. This means that discussions around placement can only resume once schools reopen, delaying the process further,” it explained.

The department is working to secure placement opportunities for learners who are still awaiting allocation.

“With schools reopening for staff on Monday, we will engage more extensively with principals and management teams to identify additional spaces. Further movement within the system is expected as schools finalise promotion, progression, and enrolment lists, which often create additional capacity.”

In addition, the WCED will conduct its 10-day snap survey once schools have been open for ten days. The survey provides accurate data on learner numbers in each grade, allowing the system to settle before reporting.

The information gathered is critical for determining where additional resources—such as furniture and equipment—are needed and where further placement opportunities may exist.
The department also urged any parent who has not yet applied for the 2026 school year to do so immediately at their education district office.

District office details are available here: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/admissions-officials 
SAnews.gov.za

 

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Minister condemns social media misinformation

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister condemns social media misinformation

Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has condemned the photoshopping of her X account with vulgar images and misinformation as not only distasteful, but also shameful.

“In a country that is battling with a scourge of gender-based violence, the continued use of sexual images to tarnish women is deplorable at the least. The cowards responsible for the photoshop [material] represent the worst sexists and gender-based violence perpetrators,” the government said in a statement on Saturday.

Acting Government spokesperson, Nomonde Mnukwa, said the government has noticed the coordinated misinformation campaign primarily targeting Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

“The public is warned about uncouth images published allegedly on the Minister’s account. The Minister’s account is not hacked, but the images are photoshopped. Attempts to defocus Minister Ntshavheni from the tasks at hand will not succeed,” said Mnukwa. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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