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Milken Institute and Motsepe Foundation Announce Winners of the $2 Million Milken-Motsepe Prize in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Manufacturing

Source: APO

The Milken Institute and the Motsepe Foundation are honoured to announce BleagLee, a Cameroon-based AI-powered waste recycling company, as the $1 million Grand Prize winner of the Milken-Motsepe Prize (https://MilkenMotsepePrize.org/) in AI and Manufacturing. The award is designed to recognize established companies driving innovation in Africa’s manufacturing sector with the potential to scale, create jobs, and spread the adoption of these technologies across the world. The winners were announced today (https://apo-opa.co/4etcixP) at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Los Angeles.

BleagLee was awarded top honours for its work in leveraging AI-powered waste collection to convert plastic, agricultural, and e-waste into premium recycled products. Tanzania-based Freshpack Technologies was named the $250,000 Runner-Up for its AI-powered cold storage, which tackles food waste in Africa. Digitech Oasis Limited from the United Kingdom received $100,000 for the Most Advanced Use of 4IR, demonstrating technological capabilities that will shape competitive manufacturing over the next decade. Additional interim prizes totalling $750,000 were awarded and disbursed among five finalists, each receiving $30,000, and the 10 semi-finalists, each receiving $50,000, throughout this prize cycle. All awards are unrestricted, enabling teams to direct their winnings toward what will most impact their businesses, strengthening their pipeline, speeding real-world pilots, and unlocking promising innovations.

BleagLee is revolutionizing waste management in Cameroon using patented AI software to detect and collect waste across communities and processing it into high-value products, such as engineered recycled polymers, 3D printing filaments, and bio-based carbon materials. By combining cutting-edge technology with community-driven impact, BleagLee is turning an environmental crisis into economic opportunity while working toward mitigating 300 million tons of CO2 equivalent emissions by 2030.

“Africa is producing world-class AI and technology innovation that is solving problems and creating opportunities on a global scale. And that story is only beginning to be told,” said Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, co-founder and CEO, Motsepe Foundation. “When we invest in innovation that is both locally grounded and globally minded, the returns are limitless. I am delighted to see partnerships like this one ensure the brightest minds have the resources, networks, and platforms they need to scale their work and shape a more prosperous and equitable world.”

AI and Manufacturing is the fourth prize awarded as part of the Milken–Motsepe Innovation Prize Program, a series of competitive multimillion-dollar global competitions and awards designed to incentivize and reward bold, innovative technological solutions to address pressing economic and environmental challenges in Africa and across the globe.

Launched in May 2025, the Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing attracted more than 2,000 entrepreneurs from 100 countries across five continents, with just 10 being selected as semi-finalists.

Each team underwent a comprehensive judging process that evaluated four key criteria: commercial viability, operational economics, technological integration, and market scalability. In December 2025, 10 semi-finalists pitched their innovations to investors at the Milken Institute Middle East and Africa Summit (https://apo-opa.co/4eu9sso) in Abu Dhabi. From this group, an expert panel of judges selected five finalists—BleagLee (www.BleagLee.org/), Digitech Oasis Limited (www.DigitechOasis.net), Freshpack Technologies (https://FreshpackTechnologies.com/), Spiro (www.Spironet.com), and Toto Safi Limited (https://TotoSafi.com/)—to advance to the final stage of the innovation award, pitching their company’s innovations at the 2026 Milken Institute Global Conference.

Since its launch in 2021, the Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program has awarded over $8 million in funding to more than 50 innovators worldwide. Participating teams have raised nearly 31 times the Grand Prize in additional outside investments, reaching and impacting over one million community members across the globe.

The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program offers free, curated resources and online events not only to award winners but also to more than 12,000 global entrepreneurs.

For more information about the winners and the Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program, visit https://MilkenMotsepePrize.org/.

Announcing a New Prize in Circular Economy

The next Milken-Motsepe Prize will focus on the circular economy, a new award designed to recognize companies using technology to enhance circular economy practices across a variety of industries. With $2 million in total prizes, including a $1 million Grand Prize, the Prize in Circular Economy seeks companies that develop and scale commercially viable, technology-enabled solutions that replace linear “take-make-waste” systems with regenerative, resource-efficient value chains.

The award also aims to address the complex realities of industrial waste management systems in Africa. Successful teams will demonstrate solutions that deliver measurable environmental and social impact, while providing training and reskilling opportunities to support safer, more specialized waste management practices.

“Our prize program has become a powerful engine for discovering and accelerating extraordinary innovators who are tackling some of the world’s most urgent challenges across industries,” said Emily Musil, PhD, managing director of Environmental and Social Innovation at the Milken Institute. “As we turn our focus to the Circular Economy, we are especially energized to champion entrepreneurs who are fundamentally reimagining how materials are used, recovered, and reused. These innovators are not only reducing waste—they are unlocking new economic value, strengthening local industries, and driving resilient, inclusive growth. As we enter our fifth year of the Milken-Motsepe Prize, we celebrate and acknowledge its growth—and its role in advancing solutions that deliver lasting benefits for communities, markets, and the environment.”

By extending the life cycle of materials, strengthening local manufacturing, and improving both upstream and downstream waste management systems, the prize seeks to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and inclusive circular economy in Africa.

Registration is open now through August 13, 2026, 2 p.m. Eastern. To apply, visit: https://apo-opa.co/4cWKf8L

The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program seeks companies that must meet the following eligibility requirements: have over two years of continuous operation, generate over $500,000 in revenue and raised capital, have institutional, corporate, and/or public‑sector partnerships, has a solution currently deployed on the African continent, has clear evidence of social impact and job creation, and demonstrates operational readiness to deploy more than $1 million in funding.

Teams from a variety of businesses are encouraged to apply, and teams will be required to submit vertical-specific metrics from industries such as food systems, packaging, electronics, fashion and textiles, construction, and the built environment.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Libby Miller
202.249.6905
Limiller@milkeninstitute.org

About the Milken Institute: 
The Milken Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, we bring together the best ideas and innovative resourcing to develop blueprints for tackling some of our most critical global issues through the lens of what’s pressing now and what’s coming next. For more information, visit https://MilkenInstitute.org.

About the Motsepe Foundation: 
The Motsepe Foundation was founded in 1999 by Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe. The goal of the Motsepe Foundation is to contribute toward eradicating poverty and to sustainably improve the living conditions and standards of living of poor, unemployed, and marginalized people in South Africa, Africa, and the world. In January 2013, Dr. Motsepe and Dr. Moloi-Motsepe joined the Giving Pledge, which was started by Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates. Dr. Motsepe and his wife committed to give half of their wealth to the poor and for philanthropic purposes during their lifetime and beyond. For more information, visit https://www.MotsepeFoundation.org/.

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Holds Phone Call with Pakistani Prime Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, May 07, 2026
HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani held a phone call on Thursday with HE Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

The two sides discussed bilateral cooperation and ways to strengthen it, in addition to the latest regional developments and Pakistan’s efforts to support de-escalation and promote security and stability.

During the call, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan’s efforts, along with other mediating parties, in facilitating the ceasefire between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

His Excellency reaffirmed Qatar’s full support for mediation efforts aimed at resolving the crisis through peaceful means, stressing the importance of all parties responding constructively to create conditions for renewed negotiations leading to a comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement. 

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Qatar Takes Part in Euro-Mediterranean, Arab and Balkans Foreign Ministers Meeting

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, May 07, 2026
The State of Qatar participated on Thursday in a meeting of foreign ministers from the EU Mediterranean group (MED9), the League of Arab States, and Western Balkan countries, held via videoconference.
Qatar was represented by HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi.
The meeting discussed strengthening food security and facilitating access to fertilizers. 

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Government addresses Ditsobotla service delivery challenges

Source: Government of South Africa

Government addresses Ditsobotla service delivery challenges

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has assured residents of Ditsobotla Local Municipality (DLM) that government interventions currently underway are aimed at addressing challenges related to inadequate water and sanitation services, unreliable electricity supply, and poor road infrastructure. 

The Deputy President made the commitment on Thursday during an engagement with community members in the municipality, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen municipalities’ capacity to deliver basic services effectively.

“Our intervention in Ditsobotla is concrete, targeted, and already underway. We are acting decisively to restore governance, rebuild services, and renew hope,” he said of his visit to the municipality in the North West.

The Deputy President’s visit is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen municipalities’ capacity to deliver basic services effectively to communities.

READ | Deputy President to take stock of developments in the North West

“This visit is about restoring presence, action, and accountability. We are serious about fixing local government in real time, accelerating delivery, and ensuring visible improvements. Some of the interventions mean a change will not happen overnight, but visible change must begin, and it must be sustained,” he said.
As part of efforts to stabilise the municipality, government has deployed former Free State Director-General Kopung Ralikontsane to work on the ground to help rebuild and strengthen the municipality.

“We will continue to be here with you until the water systems are stabilised. Electricity revenue is protected and reinvested in ensuring the security of supply. Roads are repaired, and nonperforming contractors are reprimanded, put to terms, and terminated,” the Deputy President said.

He also stressed the importance of ensuring that economic support reaches local entrepreneurs and that skills development initiatives are aligned with economic opportunities.

“Skills development is aligned to our local, national, and global economic environment so that our young people are properly skilled for real work.”

Restoring functionality
While acknowledging community frustrations over poor service delivery, the Deputy President said government would maintain a sustained presence in the municipality to ensure accountability and implementation. 

The DLM has been facing persistent governance and service delivery challenges, which led to the National Cabinet placing it under administration in terms of Section 139 of the Constitution. 

These challenges include financial mismanagement, instability in political and administrative leadership, failure to provide consistent basic services, and deteriorating infrastructure. 

Therefore, this intervention aims to restore functionality, strengthen institutional capacity, and ensure improved service delivery outcomes.

“Government has noticed this and decided to deal with this by appointing a National Cabinet Representative (the NCR) in this municipality, through whom the Cabinet will attend to the situation in this municipality on a day-to-day basis. 

The NCR is a multi-disciplinary team under the supervision of the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and the Treasury.

“Ditsobotla must be turned from being an example of all that resembles the worst in our democratic dispensation to an epitome of greatness, good governance, excellence in the delivery of services, and the best example of collaboration amongst all stakeholders and residents of municipalities.”

He also warned officials that the era of delayed implementation and empty promises was over.

“The time for endless discussions is over. The time for decisive action has come. Now is the time to have qualified officials, clear authority, and firm accountability. 

“We want councillors, management, and staff to be united in supporting the intervention. Officials must be empowered to deliver and held accountable when they do not.”

Open door
He added that his office would remain engaged with the municipality until conditions improve.

“My office remains open to you as we work toward addressing your challenges, and we will stay engaged until Ditsobotla works,” the Deputy President said.

The Deputy President’s visit was preceded by an engagement between the Deputy President and the local Traditional Leadership, as well as an engagement with business fora, spearheaded by Ministers.
He also visited the Klipveld Water Treatment Plant to assess the work being done to provide water, and he inspected the upgrades that are being done on Nelson Mandela Drive.

This has been described as the busiest road in Mahikeng and an economic transport arterial road, which carries large volumes of traffic, especially during peak hours. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Remarks by Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile during the Oversight Visit to Ditsobotla Local Municipality, Biesvlei Sports Ground, Itsekeng, North West Province

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director;
Premier of North-West, Honourable Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers here present;
MECs, Councillors and Officials of Ditsobotla Municipality;
President of SALGA;
DiKgosi tsa rona and all Traditional Leaders present;,
Directors General, Heads of Departments, the NCR led by Ntate Ralinkontsane, former Director General of Free State;
All Government Officials;
Community members;
Batho ba Ditsobotla;

Dumelang! I greet you with respect and humility!

I stand before you today not just as deputy president, but also as a servant of a democratic legacy established in struggle and sacrifice. That legacy was written by countless men and women who endured hardship, many of whom lived in the impoverished areas once designated as Bantustans or so-called “homelands.”

From the liberation struggle to the dawn of democracy, our people have always demanded nothing less than dignity, accountability, and delivery. They demanded that freedom must mean more than the right to vote, that it must mean the right to live with dignity, to work with security, and to raise families in communities where services function and opportunities exist.

Today, here in Ditsobotla, that demand continues.

It continues in the voices of residents in this community who ask for clean drinkable water, reliable electricity, passable roads, and opportunities that are real. It continues in the determination of young people who want skills and jobs, not promises and delays.

I stand here fully aware of the frustration, the anger, and the fatigue felt by the people of Ditsobotla. This municipality has endured too much instability and too little delivery, and it would be dishonest to pretend otherwise. You have indeed waited for too long for the delivery of your constitutional promises.

Government has noticed this and decided to deal with this end this by appointing a National Cabinet Representative (the NCR) in this municipality, through whom the cabinet will attend to the situation in this municipality on a day-to-day basis. The NCR is a Multi-Disciplinary team under the supervision of COGTA and Treasury.

We are here today members of Cabinet and Parliament to support the team on the ground.

When I was here in January 2026, the team and the Premier of the province provided me with an overview of the obstacles they were facing, and I assured them that I would engage with Ministers Hlabisa and Gondongwane, as well as connect with other pertinent ministers, which the premier also committed to doing.

Since then, the teams have been actively working on their initiatives to bring change in Ditsobotla. 

Today, we reconvene not to revisit the information previously presented in January, but to monitor and provide feedback on the progress achieved to date, identify what remains to be addressed, and strategise our approach moving forward. 

I have already met with Ministers, the Premier, and district leadership, and we all agreed on the need for bold action to address the community’s daily challenges.

The last time we were here, you said the following should be a priority:

– Stabilise governance of the municipality and refocussing the municipality and its leadership on the mandate the municipality was established for: serving the people and ensuring delivery of services and stopping self-serving tendencies with immediate effect.

– Water and sanitation, which strike at dignity and public health.

– Electricity connections, which affect households and businesses.

– Road infrastructure, with specific attention to Beyers Naudé Road, a strategic economic artery.

– Economic support, by bringing the Department of Small Business Development and SETAs to support local entrepreneurs and invest in skills development.

No one among my team members and colleagues present here should ever say your demands are unreasonable. They are constitutional; they are just; they are time-sensitive; and they are achievable. Delivery must be felt in your homes, in your streets, and in your lives.

Ditsobotla must be turned from being an example of all that resembles the worst in our democratic dispensation to an epitome of greatness, good governance, excellence in the delivery of services, and the best example of collaboration amongst all stakeholders and residents of municipalities.

Ditsobotla’s challenges are not technical mysteries. They are the result of governance breakdown, execution failure, and instability. In short, we can say that the issues arose from our failure to maintain high standards of accountability and consequences management.

To our officials who provide technical support to our political leadership, we must recognise that when plans exist without implementation, when funds are spent without visible outcomes, and when institutions collapse without intervention, the people ultimately pay the price. That cannot continue, and it will not continue.

We are going to maintain sustained presence and accountability. In other words, this trip is not a once-off visit. National Government will remain present in action.

We have already deployed a seasoned technocrat, the former Director General of the Free State, Ntate Ralikontsane, to work on the ground and ensure that this municipality is stabilised, rebuilt, and turned around. We will continue to be here with you until:

– Water systems are  stabilised.

– Electricity revenue is protected and reinvested in ensuring the security of supply.

– Roads are repaired, and nonperforming contractors are reprimanded, put to terms, and terminated.

– Economic support must reach local entrepreneurs.

– Skills development is aligned to our local, national, and global economic environment so that our young people are properly skilled for real work.

We want to assure everybody that if systems work, they will be supported and scaled. If they fail repeatedly, intervention will follow without delay. This is not about playing politics. It is about restoring basic functionality to people’s lives.

Ditsobotla does not need more meetings. Ditsobotla does not need more fighting. What this community needs is action. What this community needs is delivery.

I, for one, would have been tired of meetings without implementation, tired of plans without execution, and tired of promises without speed. The time for endless discussions is over. The time for decisive action has come.

Now is the time to have qualified officials, clear authority, and firm accountability. We want councillors, management, and staff to be united in supporting the intervention. Officials must be empowered to deliver and held accountable when they do not.

Let us prepare Ditsobotla to enter the new municipal term as the epitome of best municipal governance practices and cast its past bad image in the dustbin of history.

As Government, we aim to improve cooperative governance by ensuring alignment and integration of national, provincial, and local Government plans. Through the DDM approach, we are accelerating service delivery, enhancing accountability, and ensuring that communities receive coordinated and sustainable support.

Our intervention in Ditsobotla is concrete, targeted, and already underway. We are acting decisively to restore governance, rebuild services, and renew hope. Among others, these interventions include:

– Working with National Treasury, we are utilising the Financial Recovery Plan process to secure and reprioritise funds.

– The Department of Water and Sanitation is supporting the Ngaka Modiri Molema District and Ditsobotla Local Municipality in reviewing the MOU, finalising a business plan for water infrastructure refurbishment and expansion, and facilitating access to bulk water.

– Provincial Public Works is rehabilitating Dr Beyers Naude Drive. SANRAL partnerships and the Vala Zonke programme are addressing potholes.

– Waste management is being stabilised. Funding has been reprioritised to procure waste vehicles, while EPWP teams are being deployed to clean and manage landfill sites.

These communities deserve the best. To the residents of this municipality, let me say this once again: Your frustration is justified. Your demands are reasonable, and your municipality will not be abandoned.

Some of the interventions mean a change will not happen overnight, but visible change must begin, and it must be sustained.

This visit is about restoring presence, action, and accountability. We are serious about fixing local government in real time, accelerating delivery, and ensuring visible improvements. 

My office remains open to you as we work toward addressing your challenges, and we will stay engaged until Ditsobotla works.

I thank you.

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Massive levy collection boosts food security and transformation investment in agriculture

Source: Government of South Africa

Massive levy collection boosts food security and transformation investment in agriculture

South Africa’s agricultural sector has surpassed the R1.155 billion mark in statutory levy collections, reinforcing the sector’s ability to invest in food security, farmer support, transformation, and global competitiveness.

According to the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) 2025 Status of Statutory Measures Report, levy income increased from R1.149 billion in 2024 to R1.155 billion in 2025, marking sustained growth above the R1 billion benchmark first achieved in the 2023/24 financial year.

Reinvestment drives sector growth

Levy funds continue to be channelled back into the sector, with total expenditure reaching R1.21 billion in 2025, reflecting strong industry confidence and the strategic use of accumulated reserves for priority programmes.

Research and innovation accounted for the largest share of spending at 46.7% (R564 million), followed by transformation initiatives at 19.7% (R237.5 million). Export promotion and market access received 13% (R157.1 million), while information and data systems accounted for 6.4% (R77.6 million). Administrative costs remained contained at 6% (R72.9 million), well below the recommended 10% guideline.

Focus on innovation and inclusive growth

NAMC noted that since surpassing the R1 billion mark in 2023/24, the sector has steadily strengthened its focus on innovation and climate‑resilient farming systems, expanding access to export markets, empowering previously disadvantaged producers, and world‑class agricultural data and information systems.

In 2023/24 alone, the Council said, R1.022 billion was already invested back into industry functions, with research accounting for nearly half of all spending.

“Transformation spending increased to R237.5 million in 2025, representing a 5% increase from the previous year. This aligns with the NAMC’s guidelines that at least 20% of levy income supports transformation initiatives across most industries.

“With global markets becoming more competitive, the sector allocated R157 million to export promotion and market access. This supported South Africa’s position as a reliable agricultural exporter, despite logistical and geopolitical challenges,” the Council said.

Why this matters for food security and jobs

The Council said statutory levies play a critical role in sustaining industries by funding critical research and innovation, maintaining national food security, building high‑quality agricultural data systems, and supporting inclusive growth and rural employment.

“The success of the grains, oilseeds, citrus, deciduous fruit and wine industries demonstrates how coordinated levy investment can deliver long‑term economic and social returns,” NAMC said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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La commissaire de Union africaine (UA), Mme Mataboge, participe à African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 alors que le continent développe des infrastructures énergétiques interconnectées

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Lerato D. Mataboge, commissaire chargée des infrastructures et de l’énergie à l’Union africaine (UA), participera en tant qu’intervenante à la prochaine conférence et exposition de l’African Energy Week (AEW), qui se tiendra du 12 au 16 octobre au Cap. Sa participation place la voix institutionnelle de l’UA au cœur de l’événement, à un moment où l’organisation continentale passe de l’architecture politique à la mise en œuvre et s’exprime de plus en plus clairement sur les conditions qu’elle acceptera ou non de la part de ses partenaires internationaux.

Mme Mataboge figure parmi les voix africaines les plus claires s’opposant aux termes du débat mondial sur la transition énergétique. Lors du Forum économique mondial de Davos en janvier 2026, elle a remis en cause le discours dominant, affirmant que l’électricité de base est une condition préalable non négociable à l’industrialisation de l’Afrique et que le continent ne peut être évalué selon les mêmes critères que ceux appliqués aux économies disposant déjà d’un approvisionnement électrique fiable. L’Afrique détient environ 20 % des ressources mondiales identifiées en uranium, mais représente moins de 1 % de la consommation mondiale d’électricité d’origine nucléaire, une disparité qu’elle a citée comme emblématique d’une tendance plus large selon laquelle la richesse en ressources ne s’est pas encore traduite par une souveraineté énergétique.

S’exprimant au Cap en mars, Mme Mataboge a noté que l’Afrique dispose d’une capacité de production installée d’environ 245 GW, tandis que la consommation d’électricité s’élève en moyenne à environ 600 kWh par personne et par an, soit environ cinq fois moins que la moyenne mondiale. Combler cet écart signifie raccorder entre 90 et 100 millions de personnes supplémentaires à l’électricité chaque année, ce qui nécessite environ 200 milliards de dollars d’investissements annuels d’ici 2030, contre un niveau d’investissement annuel actuel d’environ 45 milliards de dollars.

La mission de Mme Mataboge au sein de l’UA consiste à mettre en place l’architecture institutionnelle capable de commencer à mobiliser ces capitaux à grande échelle. Elle supervise la mise en œuvre du Marché unique africain de l’électricité (AfSEM), qui vise à intégrer les pools énergétiques régionaux fragmentés du continent au sein d’un marché de l’électricité unifié, parallèlement au Plan directeur des réseaux électriques continentaux et au Plan décennal d’investissement dans les infrastructures pour la connectivité transfrontalière, le pipeline principal de l’UA pour les projets de transport et de production d’électricité. Ces cadres sont en cours d’élaboration depuis des années, mais le défi a consisté à les transformer en propositions bancables susceptibles d’attirer des capitaux privés. Lors de l’AEW 2026, cet argumentaire sera présenté aux investisseurs et aux développeurs en mesure d’agir en ce sens.

« La commissaire Mataboge est le lien institutionnel entre les ambitions énergétiques continentales de l’Afrique et les investisseurs et développeurs capables de les concrétiser », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « Son message est clair : l’Afrique ne subordonnera pas ses besoins de développement à des conditions de financement externes qui n’ont jamais été conçues en pensant à ce continent. L’AEW est le lieu idéal pour mener cette conversation, et le moment est venu. »

L’AEW 2026 – le principal événement énergétique africain – rassemble les principaux décideurs politiques, financiers, développeurs et opérateurs africains afin de faire avancer le programme énergétique du continent. Le discours de la commissaire Mataboge mettra en avant le cadre institutionnel de l’UA et le déficit de financement qu’elle s’efforce de combler.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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African Union (AU) Commissioner Mataboge Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as Continent Scales Interconnected Energy Infrastructure

Source: APO


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Lerato D. Mataboge, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy at the African Union (AU), has joined the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) Conference and Exhibition – taking place October 12-16 in Cape Town – as a speaker. Her participation puts the AU’s institutional voice at the center of the event at a moment when the continental body is moving from policy architecture to execution, and growing increasingly vocal about the conditions it will and will not accept from international partners. 

Mataboge has been among the clearest African voices pushing back on the terms of the global energy transition debate. At the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2026, she challenged the prevailing narrative, arguing that baseload power is a non-negotiable prerequisite for African industrialization and that the continent cannot be assessed by the same benchmarks applied to economies that already have reliable electricity. Africa holds around 20% of the world’s identified uranium resources yet accounts for less than 1% of global nuclear electricity consumption, a disparity she has cited as emblematic of a broader pattern of resource wealth that has yet to translate into energy sovereignty. 

Speaking in Cape Town in March, Mataboge noted that Africa has approximately 245 GW of installed generation capacity, while electricity consumption averages around 600 kWh per person per year, roughly five times below the global average. Closing the gap means connecting between 90 and 100 million additional people to electricity annually, requiring roughly $200 billion in annual investment by 2030 against a current annual investment level of approximately $45 billion. 

Mataboge’s mandate at the AU is to build the institutional architecture that can begin to mobilize that capital at scale. She is overseeing the operationalization of the African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM), which aims to integrate the continent’s fragmented regional power pools into a unified electricity market, alongside the Continental Power Systems Masterplan and the Ten-Year Infrastructure Investment Plan for Cross-Border Connectivity, the AU’s master pipeline for transmission and generation projects. These frameworks have been in development for years, but the challenge has been turning them into bankable propositions that attract private capital. At AEW 2026, that case will be made to the investors and developers who can act on it. 

“Commissioner Mataboge is the institutional link between Africa’s continental energy ambitions and the investors and developers who can make them real,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Her message is clear – that Africa will not subordinate its development needs to external financing conditions that were never designed with this continent in mind. AEW is the right room to have that conversation, and the right moment.” 

AEW 2026 – Africa’s premier energy event – convenes Africa’s foremost policymakers, financiers, developers and operators to advance the continent’s energy agenda. Commissioner Mataboge’s address will place the AU’s institutional framework, and the financing gap it is working to close, at center stage. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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TNPA calls for proposals for bulk terminal operator

Source: Government of South Africa

TNPA calls for proposals for bulk terminal operator

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is inviting interested parties to submit bids in response to the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the appointment of a terminal operator to finance, operate, maintain, refurbish and/or construct a Liquid Bulk Terminal at the Port of Cape Town for a 25-year concession period.

The project site is an existing brownfield development comprising a tank farm with eight storage tanks offering a combined storage capacity of approximately 44,430 m³, including an adjacent storage warehouse and admin building. 

The site allows for the interface with common-user berths at Tanker Basin 1 and Tanker Basin 2, supporting both local supply from the refinery and the importation of bunkering products.

Through this RFP, the Port of Cape Town seeks to retain and enhance a strategically important liquid bulk terminal, ensuring the continuity of critical services. This also supports long-term financial sustainability and optimal infrastructure utilisation through private sector participation.

“The Port of Cape Town is strategically positioned to support multiple liquid bulk operations, and this RFP allows for private sector participation to enhance liquid bulk cargo volumes whilst strengthening bunkering capabilities and revenue generation,” said Ophelia Shabane, Acting Port Manager at the Port of Cape Town. 

“By attracting a capable terminal operator, we aim to ensure that the site continues to operate efficiently while supporting regional fuel supply and broader economic growth. 

“The RFP is underpinned by demonstrable market demand, which informs the appointment of a new terminal operator to deliver operational efficiency, ensure operational continuity and effectively use and modernise existing infrastructure,” Shabane said on Thursday.

The RFP documents can be accessed from the National Treasury’s e-tender portal www.etender.gov.za and/or the Transnet website: www.transnet.net 

TNPA is responsible for the safe, effective, and efficient economic functioning of the national port system, which it manages in a landlord capacity.

It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa – Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay, and Ngqura. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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La Fondation Merck annonce les lauréates des Prix de la Mode, Film et Chanson 2025, récompensant l’engagement pour la sensibilisation aux enjeux sociaux et sanitaires – 51 lauréates issues de 15 pays ont été désignées en partenariat avec les Premières Dames d’Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, en partenariat avec les Premières Dames d’Afrique, également Ambassadrices de la Campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère », a annoncé les lauréates des Prix de la Mode, Film et Chanson 2025, organisés autour des thèmes « Plus Qu’une Mère » et « Diabète et Hypertension ». Le thème des Prix « Plus Qu’une Mère » visait à sensibiliser le public aux enjeux sociaux tels que : la lutte contre la stigmatisation de l’infertilité, le soutien à l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, l’éradication du mariage des enfants, l’abolition des mutilations génitales féminines et/ou la lutte contre les violences sexistes à tous les niveaux. Le thème des Prix « Diabète et Hypertension » visait à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser le public à la prévention et au dépistage précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension dans les pays africains.

Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret), a déclaré : « Je suis extrêmement fière d’annoncer les lauréats des Prix Merck de la Mode, de la Chanson et du Film 2023, en compagnie de mes chères sœurs, les Premières Dames Africaines, qui sont également Ambassadrices de la campagne « Plus Qu’une Mère » de la Fondation Merck.

Je félicite nos 51 lauréats, originaires de 15 pays africains. Je suis véritablement impressionnée par la qualité et le nombre des candidatures reçues cette année. Nos lauréats ont su transmettre avec créativité et efficacité d’importants messages de sensibilisation sociale et sanitaire à travers leurs œuvres. J’ai toujours été convaincue que la mode et l’art jouent un rôle crucial dans la sensibilisation aux questions de santé et aux problématiques sociales sensibles. »

La Fondation Merck a également annoncé l’appel à candidatures pour l’édition 2026 des Prix de la Mode, de la Chanson et du Film « Plus Qu’une Mère » et « Diabète et Hypertension » de la Fondation Merck, en partenariat avec les Premières Dames d’Afrique et d’Asie.

« Nous invitons les jeunes talents à soumettre leurs créations, porteuses de messages forts qui brisent le silence », a-t-elle ajouté.

Voici la liste des Gagnants des Prix de la MODE de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2025 :

  • Ropafadzo Mapira, ZIMBABWE, Première Position
  • Adebayo Balikis Ireti, NIGERIA, Première Position
  • Christianah Adebimpe Dare, NIGERIA, Première Position
  • Mame Bara Gaye, SÉNÉGAL, Deuxième Position
  • Serigne Modou Diouf, SÉNÉGAL, Deuxième Position
  • Johannes Medard Tairo, TANZANIE, Deuxième Position
  • Niyigena Angella, OUGANDA, Deuxième Position
  • Giovanni Peter Gazigile, TANZANIE, Troisième Position
  • Kutesa Tyson Vicent, OUGANDA, Troisième Position
  • Linda Ngwira, ZAMBIE, Troisième Position
  • Gibstar Makangila, ZAMBIE, Troisième Position
  • Mercy Duke, ZIMBABWE, Troisième Position
  • Oluwatosin Oloruntobi Adeyanju, NIGERIA, Troisième Position
  • Ngatendwe Hope Gowera, NAMIBIE, Troisième Position

Voici les Gagnants des Prix de la MODE de la Fondation Merck « Diabète et Hypertension » 2025 :

  • Christianah Adebimpe Dare, NIGERIA, Première position
  • Lynn Chipendo, ZIMBABWE, Première position
  • Beatricia Lucas, NAMIBIE, Deuxième Position
  • Tinotenda Nissi Mafusire, ZAMBIE, Deuxième Position
  • Oloyede Eniola Sunday, NIGERIA, Deuxième Position
  • Isabel Mawusinu Kulafe, GHANA, Troisième Position
  • Mercy Njeri Daniel, KENYA, Troisième Position
  • Hezra Carolina Gove, MOZAMBIQUE, Troisième Position

Voici la liste des Gagnants des Prix de la chanson « Plus Qu’une Mère » de la Fondation Merck 2025 :

Langue Anglaise

  • Vincent Owino, KENYA, Première Position
  • Alice Eze, NIGERIA, Première Position
  • Maureen Kabasiita, OUGANDA, Deuxième Position
  • Warren Frank Kawiche, TANZANIE, Troisième Position
  • OBED Murphy Agai, NIGERIA, Troisième Position
  • Christianah Adebimpe Dare, NIGERIA, Troisième Position
  • Cardi Shembazè, NIGERIA, Troisième Position
  • Neema Nasirumbi, KENYA, Troisième Position

Langue Française

  • Kumbuka Bashonga Jeremie, RDC, Première Position
  • Ndiouga FALL, SÉNÉGAL, Première Position
  • Brake Mackaya, GABON, Deuxième Position
  • Natty Stelle KOKOLO, SÉNÉGAL, Troisième Position

Langue Locale

  • Coumba Coly, SÉNÉGAL, Première Position
  • Bigirimana Linah Blanche, BURUNDI, Première Position

Voici la liste des Gagnants des Prix de la chanson « Diabète et Hypertension » de la Fondation Merck 2025 :

Langue Anglaise

  • Jasmin Dally Koech, KENYA, Première Position
  • Omotola Ijaola, NIGERIA, Première Position
  • Dr Ndumiso Tshuma, AFRIQUE DU SUD, Troisième Position

Langue Française

  • Étienne Kasereka, RDC, Première Position
  • Nantenaina Andriamorasata, MADAGASCAR, Deuxième Position

Voici la liste des Gagnants des Prix du Film « Plus Qu’une Mère » de la Fondation Merck 2025 :

Langue Anglaise

  • Calvin Oyula, KENYA, Première Position
  • Temitope Adebisi Adeyanju, NIGERIA, Deuxième Position
  • Bartholomew Sey, GHANA, Troisième Position

Langue Française

  • Baderhwa Benoit, GABON, Première Position
  • David LeGrand F, GABON, Première Position
  • Thierno Seydou Nouro SY, SÉNÉGAL, Deuxième Position
  • Meye Fabien, GABON, Deuxième Position

Voici la liste des Gagnants des Prix du Film « Diabète et Hypertension » de la Fondation Merck 2025 :

  • Mukendi Wabiuma Josué Yann, GABON, Première Position
  • Stephano Bloquet, MAURITIUS, Deuxième Position
  • Denis Manuel, NAMIBIA, Deuxième Position

Dans le cadre de son Programme de Sensibilisation Communautaire, la Fondation Merck a produit plus de 30 chansons en anglais, français, portugais et langues locales, afin d’aborder des sujets importants tels que la lutte contre la stigmatisation de l’infertilité, le soutien à l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes et la sensibilisation sur le diabète.

Cliquez ici pour écouter les chansons de la Fondation Merck :

https://apo-opa.co/48MwcjK

Par ailleurs, la Fondation Merck a également produit une série de films d’animation en anglais, français, portugais, swahili et espagnol pour aborder de nombreux problèmes sociaux et sanitaires.

Découvrez le court métrage d’animation « Plus Qu’une Mère » de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/3RpSZMc

CEO de la Fondation Merck a également conçu, produit, réalisé et co-animé « Notre Afrique par la Fondation Merck », une émission de télévision panafricaine mettant en lumière des créateurs de mode, des chanteurs et des experts africains de divers horizons, dans le but de sensibiliser le public et de susciter un changement culturel en Afrique. Visionnez la promo : https://apo-opa.co/4tpX4O3

L’émission a été diffusée sur les principales chaînes de télévision de plusieurs pays, captivant l’attention et le cœur de millions de téléspectateurs à travers le continent. « Notre Afrique » est également disponible sur les réseaux sociaux de la Dr. Rasha Kelej [Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/496Ecwf), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4wbzE1r), Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/48Pavzr) et YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4tjJuLM)] et de la Fondation Merck [Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4d5rSPf), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4nhuyfW), Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/4tWVynl) et YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4cWNNYP)].

Détails des Prix de la Fondation Merck 2026 :

1. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias Africains de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : les représentants des médias et les étudiants en journalisme sont invités à présenter leur travail pour sensibiliser l’opinion à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Soumettre plusieurs candidatures augmente les chances de remporter le prix

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

2. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 :  tous les cinéastes africains, étudiants des établissements de formation en réalisation cinématographique ou jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un long ou un court métrage, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame, pour transmettre des messages forts et influents sur un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

3. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour transmettre des messages forts et influents afin de sensibiliser à un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

4. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » 2026 : tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but d’aborder un ou plusieurs des problèmes sociaux suivants tels que : briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, soutenir l’éducation des filles, l’autonomisation des femmes, mettre fin au mariage des enfants, mettre fin aux MGF et/ou mettre fin à la VBG à tous les niveaux.

Soumettre plusieurs candidatures augmente les chances de remporter le prix

Date limite de soumission : 30 septembre 2026.

5. Prix de Reconnaissance des Médias de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : les représentants des médias sont invités à présenter leur travail à travers des messages forts et influents pour promouvoir un mode de vie sain et sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

6. Prix du Film de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les cinéastes africains, étudiants des établissements de formation en réalisation cinématographique ou jeunes talents d’Afrique sont invités à créer et à partager un long ou un court FILMS, qu’il s’agisse d’un drame, d’un documentaire ou d’un docudrame, pour délivrer des messages forts et influents visant à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

7. Prix de la Mode de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les étudiants et créateurs de mode africains sont invités à créer et à partager des créations pour transmettre des messages forts et influents visant à promouvoir un mode de vie sain et à sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

8. Prix de la Chanson de la Fondation Merck « Diabètes & Hypertension » 2026 : tous les chanteurs et artistes musicaux africains sont invités à créer et à partager une CHANSON dans le but de promouvoir un mode de vie sain et de sensibiliser à la prévention et à la détection précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension.

Date limite de soumission : 30 octobre 2026.

Postulez ici : https://apo-opa.co/3RqDJyB

Les candidatures pour tous les prix doivent être soumises par courrier électronique à : submit@merck-foundation.com

Distribué par APO Group pour Merck Foundation.

Contact :
Mehak Handa
Responsable du programme de sensibilisation communautaire
Téléphone : +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
E-mail : mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Rejoignez la conversation sur nos plateformes de réseaux sociaux ci-dessous et faites entendre votre voix :
Facebook : https://apo-opa.co/4d5rSPf
X : https://apo-opa.co/4tWVynl
YouTube : https://apo-opa.co/4cWNNYP
Instagram : https://apo-opa.co/4nhuyfW
Threads : https://apo-opa.co/3QYqogU
Flickr : https://apo-opa.co/48Nk9CR
Site Web : www.Merck-Foundation.com
Télécharger l’Application de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/3QRo4IE

À propos de la Fondation Merck : 
La Fondation Merck, créée en 2017, est la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, vise à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des populations et à faire progresser leur vie grâce à la science et à la technologie. Nos efforts sont principalement axés sur l’amélioration de l’accès à des solutions de soins de santé de qualité et équitables dans les communautés mal desservies, à renforcer les capacités de recherche sur les soins de santé et la recherche scientifique, l’autonomisation des filles à travers l’éducation et l’autonomisation des personnes en STEM (Science, Technologie, Ingénierie et Mathématiques) avec un accent particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes. Tous les communiqués de presse de la Fondation Merck sont distribués par e-mail en même temps qu’ils deviennent disponibles sur le site Web de la Fondation Merck. Veuillez visiter www.Merck-Foundation.com pour en savoir plus. Pour en savoir plus, contactez nos réseaux sociaux de la Fondation Merck : Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4d5rSPf), X (https://apo-opa.co/4tWVynl), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4nhuyfW), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4cWNNYP), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3QYqogU) et Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/48Nk9CR).

La Fondation Merck se consacre à l’amélioration des résultats sociaux et sanitaires pour les communautés dans le besoin. Bien qu’elle collabore avec divers partenaires, y compris des gouvernements, pour atteindre ses objectifs humanitaires, la fondation reste strictement neutre sur le plan politique. Elle ne s’engage pas et ne soutient pas d’activités, d’élections ou de régimes politiques, se focalise uniquement sur sa mission d’élever l’humanité et d’améliorer le bien-être tout en maintenant une position strictement apolitique dans toutes ses activités.

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