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Eskom’s power system remains stable

Source: Government of South Africa

Eskom’s power system remains stable

As industries gradually resume operations following the festive break, Eskom says its power system remains stable and ready to meet the projected rise in electricity demand amid the heightened economic activity in the coming weeks.

“Eskom’s power system remains stable and ready to meet the projected rise in electricity demand amid the heightened economic activity in the coming weeks as industries gradually resume operations. The resilience of the power system reflects the major improvements in Eskom’s generation fleet and the success of its Generation Recovery Plan, driving stronger operations and securing the country’s energy future,” the power utility said in a statement.

Additionally, the utility continues to see gains in the Energy Availability Factor (EAF), with the year-to-date EAF further increasing to 64.55%. Its fleet has achieved or exceeded the 70% EAF mark on 55 occasions.

“These figures underscore both recovery and sustained improvement in EAF performance, reinforcing energy security and grid stability. This performance confirms sustained recovery and reinforces confidence in the stability and security of the national electricity supply,” Eskom said.

It added that the improvements are driven primarily by the reduction in unplanned outages, reflecting the effectiveness of the Generation Recovery Plan and the benefits of disciplined maintenance execution.

Between 02 and 08 January 2026, average unplanned outages decreased to 7 705MW from last year’s level of 13 876MW, representing an improvement of 6 171MW.

Over the same period, the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) further reduced to 16.02%, a significant improvement of 12.80% compared to 28.82% recorded during the same period last year.

During the same timeframe, the average Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF), also referred to as planned maintenance, was at 9.32%, compared with 14.72% in the previous financial year. 
The reduced level follows Eskom’s intensive maintenance programme implemented in the last financial year, exceeding historical norms over the past three years, to restore fleet reliability.

“Planned maintenance remains aligned with Eskom’s maintenance schedule and supports ongoing efforts to enhance plant reliability, improve operational stability, and strengthen long term fleet performance,” the utility said.

The ongoing improvement in EAF has reduced Eskom’s reliance on expensive diesel generation, enabling a stronger focus on more cost effective primary energy sources.

“In addition, 7 305MW is currently in cold reserve due to excess capacity and lower demand during the holiday season,” said Eskom, adding that for a third consecutive week, no diesel was used, resulting in zero expenditure over the past three weeks.

The utility’s diesel spending is now R2.959 billion lower than at the same time last year.
Year-to-date, diesel expenditure remains consistently below budget.

It added that the country has had over 200 days of no load shedding.
“South Africa has now experienced 238 consecutive days without an interrupted supply, with only 26 hours of loadshedding recorded in April and May 2025 during this financial year,” it said on Friday.

Meanwhile, the power utility added that although the power system remains stable and generation capacity continues to exceed demand, persistent adverse weather, together with fires in the Coega, Humansdorp, and Sarah Baartman areas in the Eastern Cape, has resulted in an increase in faults across Eskom’s distribution network.

“Eskom teams continue to diligently restore power safely and efficiently in affected areas, while prioritising the safety of both its staff and the public throughout the restoration process,” it said.

In addition, illegal connections and meter tampering continue to damage infrastructure and pose serious safety risks.

“As a temporary measure, Eskom is maintaining load reduction in high risk areas to protect communities and the network.”

Eskom called on communities to report illegal connections, use electricity responsibly, and protect infrastructure. Any illegal activity affecting Eskom’s infrastructure can be reported to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 112 722 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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President Ramaphosa to undertake an official visit to the United Arab Emirates

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 12-13 January 2026, 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 is an annual event hosted in Abu Dhabi, 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”.

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.

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 both 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. As a result, South Africa recorded a trade deficit of US$284 million in 2004.

The strong trade relations underscores the importance of the UAE as a strategic economic partner for South Africa in the middle east and highlights ongoing opportunities to deepen trade and investment cooperation between the two countries.

The President 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, 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.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Meets Foreign Minister of Bangladesh

Source: Government of Qatar

Jeddah, January 10, 2026

HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Touhid Hossain.

The meeting took place on the margins of the extraordinary session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), convened in Jeddah on Saturday.

Discussions focused on ways to advance bilateral cooperation between the two countries, as well as a range of matters of shared interest. 

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from Angolan Minister of External Relations

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, January 10, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call on Saturday from HE Minister of External Relations of the Republic of Angola, Tete Antonio.

During the call, they discussed ways to advance bilateral cooperation between the two countries, as well as to promote a peaceful solution pathway between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda.

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the State of Qatar’s unyielding position, calling for conflicts to be resolved through dialogue and peaceful means, and for the respect of international law principles to strengthen stability, global peace, and security.

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Minister of State at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meets UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, January 08, 2026

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi met on Thursday, through video conferencing, with HE Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations of the United Nations Jean-Pierre Lacroix.

The meeting discussed efforts to achieve peace and stability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the workings of the ceasefire oversight and verification mechanism that the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Congo River Alliance (March 23 Movement) agreed to establish in October, with facilitation from the State of Qatar.

HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar’s belief in the importance of dialogue as a means to resolve conflicts and its keenness to support peaceful efforts aimed at ending the conflict in eastern Congo.

For his part, HE the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations praised the efforts made by the State of Qatar with its partners to facilitate dialogue between the conflicting parties in the region.

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Minister Ntshavheni condemns attempts to vilify her image

Source: President of South Africa –

The Minister in The Presidency, Ms Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, condemns attempts to vilify her image. The photoshopping of her X account with vulgar images and misinformation is not only distasteful but shameful as well.

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 represent the worst sexists and gender based violence perpetrators.

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.

Government has also noticed the coordinated misinformation campaign primarily targeting Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

Minister Ntshavheni is not fazed by acts of cowardice.

Media enquiries: Nomonde Mnukwa – Acting Government Spokesperson, 083 653 7485

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Eni, Claudia Host All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) Red Carpet as Tosyn, Ariane Lead Fashion Watch

Source: APO

All eyes will be on the Red Carpet as the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) (https://AFRIMA.org) rolls out one of its most glamorous moments, with top media and fashion personalities set to lead the show.

The Red Carpet is expected to start at 3:30 PM (WAT) on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, Nigeria, and will end by 6:30 pm, shortly before the main AFRIMA Awards Ceremony begins by  7 PM (WAT).

Famous Nigerian influencer, actor, director, film producer and television personality Enioluwa Adeoluwa, popularly known as Eni, will join Kenyan actress, Claudia Naisabwa, as hosts of the AFRIMA Red Carpet. Stylish, confident and media-savvy, the duo are expected to bring charm, excitement and pan-African energy as they welcome Africa’s biggest music stars and celebrities to the awards night.

The fashion spotlight will shine even brighter with respected style voice Tosyn of Style Infidel stepping in as fashion police. Known for his keen eye and bold commentary, Tosyn will break down the best looks, daring outfits and headline-making fashion moments from the red carpet.

Joining him is Ariane Celeste Moua. From elegant gowns to statement suits, Ariane will deliver sharp, entertaining reviews of what the stars are wearing as they make their grand entrance.

Speaking on the exciting Red Carpet line-up, Victoria Nkong, AFRIMA Associate Producer, said the selection reflects AFRIMA’s vision of blending music, fashion and African excellence on one global stage.

“The AFRIMA red carpet has grown into a major entertainment moment. It is where music meets fashion and culture. With Eni, Claudia, Tosyn and Ariane, guests, artists, attendees and even millions of viewers watching the show across the world should expect colour, class and unforgettable moments,” Nkong said.

She noted that beyond the awards, the red carpet gives African artistes and designers the chance to express creativity, confidence and identity before a global audience.

Africa’s biggest music celebration is scheduled to run from January 7 to 11, 2026. The week-long festival officially kicked off on Wednesday with a special Welcome Soiree for nominees and invited guests, hosted by the British High Commission in Nigeria.

Activities continue on Thursday, January 8, with the Africa Music Business Summit, where key players discussed the business and future of African music. On Friday, January 9, the spotlight moves to the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall, Lagos, where more than 25 top African artistes and DJs thrill fans with live performances.

The award will reach its peak on Sunday, January 11, with the Main Awards Ceremony. The event will be transmitted live to viewers in over 84 countries across the world.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).

Media files

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Sudan: After 1,000 days of war, millions of civilians still bearing brunt

Source: APO – Report:

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Aid agencies marked 1,000 days of war in Sudan on Friday with a grim reminder that the conflict has created the world’s biggest hunger crisis and largest displacement emergency. Every day, civilians have been “paying the price for a war they did not choose”, said UN aid coordination office, OCHA.

Latest UN data indicates that 9.3 million people have been uprooted by conflict across the country and more than 4.3 million have fled across borders, placing immense strain on neighbouring countries. More than 21 million people are also believed to be acutely food insecure across the country.

Although many of those displaced have returned to the capital, Khartoum, massive challenges and dangers for civilians remain there, including from unexploded weapons. Elsewhere, fighting is continuing “across multiple fronts in Kordofan” further west, OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke said.

Speaking to journalists in Geneva, he noted that sieges have cut off the towns of Kadugli – capital of South Kordofan state – and Dilling – a town to the north of Kadugli – restricting food, healthcare and access to farms and markets.

Daily drone, missile strikes

In Darfur, meanwhile, “fighting on the ground and drone attacks from the sky continue”, while long-range strikes on civilian infrastructure have also been recorded far beyond the front lines, Mr. Laerke added.

Children continue to be killed and injured amid ongoing clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, with eight children reportedly killed in an attack in Al Obeid, North Kordofan, earlier this week. 

According to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), a staggering 5,000 youngsters have been displaced every day since the conflict began in April 2023. “Many have been displaced not once but repeatedly, with violence following them wherever they flee,” said UNICEF spokesperson Ricardo Pires. 

He warned that millions of children are also at risk of rape with survivors including babies. “Behind every one of these numbers is a child, frightened, hungry, sick and wondering why the world has not come to help,” Mr. Pires added.

Sexual attacks scourge

Women are also victims of “rampant” sexual violence and abuse, with some 12 million people – mostly women and girls – at risk of gender-based violence, according to OCHA. “Female-headed households are now three times more likely to be food insecure and three-quarters of these households report not having enough to eat,” said Mr. Laerke.

The global crisis in humanitarian funding has impacted the UN’s work and that of its partners in Sudan, with only 36 per cent of the $4.2 billion requested last year finally funded by donors. 

In light of this reduced financial support, for 2026, OCHA aims to assist 20 million people out of the nearly 34 million people believed to be in need of humanitarian support in Sudan. The plan has been costed at $2.9 billion.

“Today our call is urgent: first, an immediate cessation of hostilities and real steps towards a lasting peace,” Mr. Laerke said. “Second, adherence to international humanitarian law with access facilitated across conflict lines and protection of civilians including aid workers and civilian infrastructure.”

– on behalf of UN News.

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FINANÇAS PÚBLICAS: Executivo aprova Plano Anual de Endividamento para 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Executivo aprovou o Plano Anual de Endividamento para o Exercício Económico de 2026, que prevê uma captação global estimada em 15.035,32 mil milhões de kwanzas, destinada a assegurar o financiamento da execução do Orçamento Geral do Estado deste ano.

A decisão consta do Decreto Presidencial n.º 1/26, de 5 de Janeiro, e enquadra-se na necessidade de garantir recursos financeiros para a cobertura das despesas públicas previstas no OGE 2026, respeitando os limites legalmente estabelecidos.

De acordo com o diploma, a captação de recursos será realizada nos mercados interno e externo, em conformidade com os instrumentos de financiamento disponíveis, visando responder às necessidades de tesouraria do Estado ao longo do exercício económico.

O documento define, ainda, parâmetros para a gestão do endividamento público, permitindo ajustamentos em função das condições de mercado, sem prejuízo do controlo da sustentabilidade da dívida.

ENDIVIDAMENTO DE MÉDIO PRAZO

No mesmo contexto, o Executivo aprovou a Estratégia de Endividamento de Médio Prazo para o período 2026-2028, através do Decreto Presidencial n.º 2/26, igualmente de 5 de Janeiro.

A nova estratégia dá continuidade às orientações seguidas no triénio anterior e visa consolidar uma gestão prudente da dívida pública, assegurando a sustentabilidade financeira e a estabilidade macroeconómica do país.

Com a entrada em vigor da Estratégia de Endividamento de Médio Prazo 2026-2028, fica revogado o Decreto Presidencial n.º 52/24, de 15 de Fevereiro, que regulava o período 2024-2026.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Angola.

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Élections en Ouganda : l’ONU alerte sur un climat de répression et d’impunité

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


À quelques jours des élections prévues le 15 janvier en Ouganda, le climat politique est marqué par une répression et des intimidations généralisées visant l’opposition, les défenseurs des droits humains, les journalistes et toute personne exprimant des opinions dissidentes, selon un rapport publié vendredi par le Bureau des droits de l’homme des Nations Unies.

Le document souligne que les autorités ougandaises ont eu recours à une série de lois adoptées ou amendées depuis les dernières élections de 2021, renforçant la répression et l’impunité, en particulier à l’encontre de l’opposition politique. Ces mesures ont restreint les libertés d’expression, d’association et de réunion pacifique à l’approche du scrutin.

Appel au respect du droit de participation

« Les autorités ougandaises doivent veiller à ce que tous les citoyens puissent participer pleinement et en toute sécurité aux élections, comme le prévoit le droit international », a  déclaré le Haut-Commissaire des Nations Unies aux droits de l’homme, Volker Türk, appelant également à ce qu’« aucune force inutile ou disproportionnée, y compris la force létale, ne soit utilisée pour disperser des manifestations pacifiques ».

Selon le droit international des droits de l’homme, l’usage des armes à feu ne peut intervenir qu’en dernier recours, afin de prévenir une menace imminente de mort ou de blessure grave.

Les voix dissidentes réduites au silence

Le rapport détaille l’utilisation de plusieurs textes législatifs – dont la loi de 2022 modifiant la législation sur l’usage abusif de l’informatique, la loi de 2024 sur les organisations non gouvernementales et la loi de 2025 modifiant le cadre juridique des forces armées – pour museler les opinions critiques.

Ces lois auraient servi à arrêter et détenir des dirigeants et militants de l’opposition, à perquisitionner les locaux de partis politiques, à confisquer des biens, mais aussi à suspendre des stations de radio, arrêter des blogueurs et renforcer le contrôle exercé sur les ONG.

Restrictions ciblant l’opposition

Le rapport fait état de « restrictions indues » imposées aux partis d’opposition, en particulier à la Plateforme de l’unité nationale, par divers moyens : barrages routiers, raids, blocage de l’accès aux sièges des partis, assignations à résidence forcées et dispersion de rassemblements politiques.

Figure majeure de l’opposition, Kizza Besigye demeure en détention depuis son enlèvement au Kenya voisin en novembre 2024, sur la base d’accusations de trahison jugées douteuses. Lui et son associé Obeid Lutale se sont vu refuser à plusieurs reprises une libération sous caution, sans motifs clairement établis.

L’arrestation récente de la défenseure des droits humains Sarah Bireete, ainsi qu’une directive gouvernementale interdisant la diffusion en direct des « émeutes » et des « rassemblements illégaux », sont citées comme de nouveaux motifs d’inquiétude.

Usage excessif de la force

Selon l’ONU, les forces de sécurité – police, armée et unités antiterroristes – ont eu recours à des armes à feu et à des munitions réelles pour disperser des rassemblements pacifiques, et procédé à des arrestations arbitraires et à des détentions provisoires prolongées, visant principalement l’opposition.

Le rapport évoque également l’utilisation de véhicules banalisés, surnommés « drones », pour enlever des membres et des sympathisants de l’opposition, détenus ensuite au secret dans des lieux non officiels, appelés « maisons sûres ».

Le Haut-Commissaire a enfin appelé à ce que les responsables de violations des droits humains liées aux élections – y compris celles restées sans suite depuis le scrutin de 2021 – soient traduits en justice à l’issue d’enquêtes « effectives, approfondies et impartiales », dans le cadre de procédures équitables.

Distribué par APO Group pour UN News.