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“Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Gen 4:9)

Source: APO


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The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) (www.SECAM.org), the body for communion, consultation, and coordination of the Catholic Church in Africa and the neighbouring islands, is deeply concerned about the recent events in the Republic of South Africa, which have been marked by acts of xenophobic violence against nationals of other African countries.

In these particularly grave circumstances, SECAM expresses its fraternal and ecclesial solidarity with the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) for its prophetic stance in support of African migrants who are victims of discrimination and xenophobia. It also extends its sympathy to all victims of this violence and to their families, who have been severely affected.

At the heart of this crisis lies a fundamental challenge to the human conscience. Biblical revelation teaches that every person is created in the image and likeness of God (Gen 1:26-27), a truth that underpins the infinite dignity of every human being, regardless of their origin, nationality, tribe, culture, or migration status. SECAM strongly reiterates that this dignity must remain the primary criterion for all social organisation and public policy. Any violence directed against foreigners constitutes not only a grave violation of the human person but also a negation of the foundations of universal brotherhood and the Africa we want.

SECAM reaffirms the need for a balance between the legitimate sovereignty of states and the imperative requirement for migrants to respect the laws and customs of their host country. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: “Political authorities, for the sake of the common good for which they are responsible, may make the exercise of the right to immigrate subject to various juridical conditions, especially with regard to the immigrants’ duties toward their country of adoption. Immigrants are obliged to respect with gratitude the material and spiritual heritage of the country that receives them, to obey its laws and to assist in carrying civic burdens.” (CCC, n. 2241).

The acts of violence recently witnessed in South Africa constitute a serious violation of African principles and continental law. They undermine the fundamental rights guaranteed by the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, notably the right to life, dignity, security, and equality before the law. They also contradict the continent’s core values, such as African solidarity, the spirit of Ubuntu – I am because we are – and the ideals of Pan-Africanism and African Renaissance.

In light of this situation, SECAM calls on the Government of the Republic of South Africa to take urgent, concrete, and sustainable measures to ensure the protection of all persons living on its territory, in accordance with its continental and international commitments. It urges the Government to conduct impartial investigations, identify and prosecute those responsible for these acts, put an end to all forms of vigilante justice, and strengthen the legitimate authority of the State.

SECAM also calls on the African Union to fully assume its role as guardian of continental values, to ensure the effective implementation of African legal instruments on human rights, and to encourage the establishment of prevention and early warning mechanisms against xenophobic violence. The credibility of Africa, which aspires to become a key player on the international stage, is at stake.

SECAM calls on people to reject all forms of violence, all rhetoric of hatred and stigmatisation, to reject discourse that divides African peoples, and to promote a culture of encounter, dialogue, and African brotherhood.

Following the example of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–35), we are all called to rediscover an ethic of closeness, where the stranger is not perceived as a threat but recognised as a brother or sister of whom we are the guardians.

At this critical juncture, SECAM reaffirms its resolute commitment to migrants, the poor, and the most vulnerable, to promote a society founded on justice, peace, and human dignity, as well as on dialogue between African peoples and nations. It invites all men and women of good will to work tirelessly towards building a reconciled Africa, faithful to its profound vocation to be, from Cairo to Cape Town, a family of peoples united in dignity and solidarity.

Finally, SECAM assures all victims of xenophobic violence of its spiritual, pastoral, and supportive closeness: dear brothers and sisters, you are not alone; we will never abandon you!

+ Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo
Archbishop of Kinshasa
President of SECAM

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

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Kenya’s first private-sector agri-focused securitisation reaches first close at KES 276 million

Source: APO

Fintech platform, Kaleidofin (www.Kaleidofin.com), has closed Kenya’s first private-sector local currency securitisation in the smallholder agriculture sector, in partnership with agri-finance company Apollo Agriculture and with investment from the IDH Farmfit Fund, a blended finance impact fund, marking a significant step in developing institutional capital markets for rural lending.

This first-of-its-kind securitisation in Kenya demonstrates how structured credit markets can channel institutional capital toward smallholder finance.

The milestone transaction involved the securitisation of smallholder farmer credit for inputs with a value of KES 370 million, mobilising KES 276 million (approximately USD 2.1 million) in financing through the sale of these receivables, originated by Apollo Agriculture and covering a portfolio of 23,839 smallholder farmers, 51% of whom are women and approximately 22% first-time borrowers. The issuance was supported by an investment grade rating of BBB- from Agusto, marking a significant milestone in demonstrating the credit quality and investability of this asset class.

Structured through Kaleidofin’s ki platform, a dedicated debt capital market infrastructure, the transaction enables the conversion of granular agricultural loans into investable assets for institutional investors in local currency. Unlike traditional models that rely on rigid standardisation, the platform supports customised structuring of portfolios and risk segmentation, powered by Kaleidofin’s proprietary ki score, an AI-driven risk intelligence layer built on loan transaction, bureau and alternative data.

The structure allows originators such as Apollo Agriculture to recycle capital efficiently while aligning financing to seasonal agricultural cycles, and provides investors with improved visibility into underlying asset risk, helping reduce information asymmetry in an otherwise opaque segment.

For Apollo Agriculture, the transaction releases immediate liquidity and improves capital efficiency, enabling continued expansion of financing to smallholder farmers without increasing balance sheet leverage. In practical terms, this means Apollo can extend more loans to smallholder farmers, helping them access the seeds, fertilisers and tools they need to grow more crops and improve their livelihoods. This is made possible by Apollo’s unique credit tech stack, which allows the company to build accurate, real-time credit profiles for farmers and underwrite customers typically excluded from formal finance. Apollo’s platform combines satellite imagery of farm plots, machine learning models trained on agricultural yield patterns, and mobile-based data collection to assess creditworthiness in real time — without requiring the collateral or credit history that traditional lenders demand.

“This transaction demonstrates how innovative financial structures can unlock capital for smallholder farmers at scale,” said Roel Messie, CEO of IDH Investment Management, manager of the IDH Farmfit Fund. “Building investable opportunities in agriculture requires both capital and enabling infrastructure, and this partnership brings those elements together.”

“We designed the Kaleidofin platform to function as scalable market infrastructure for traditionally excluded customer segments such as smallholder farmers, women entrepreneurs, clean energy and small business,” said Sucharita Mukherjee, Co-founder and CEO of Kaleidofin. “By enabling customised structuring and data-driven risk insights via ki score, we are building the foundations for institutional capital to flow into sectors such as smallholder agriculture in a sustainable way.”

The transaction is expected to serve as a blueprint for similar structures across emerging markets, demonstrating how technology-enabled infrastructure and blended finance can expand access to capital for underserved borrowers while creating investable opportunities for institutional investors.

“This is a meaningful step in building efficient, scalable funding for smallholder agriculture and validates our tech-enabled business model.” said Eli Pollak, CEO of Apollo Agriculture. “By converting receivables into working capital, we are able to lower our cost of funds and expand access to affordable, local currency financing for farmers.” Financing in local currency is critical for farmers, as it protects them from the foreign exchange volatility that can dramatically increase debt repayment burdens. A lower cost of funds means Apollo can offer more affordable loan terms, reducing the financial pressure on farmers and making it more likely they can repay, reinvest in their farms, and build long-term financial resilience.

The IDH Farmfit Fund acted as anchor investor in the transaction, which represents the first step in a broader multi-year securitisation programme expected to mobilise approximately KES 2.37 billion and reach more than 130,000 farmers over time.

The transaction was supported by a broader ecosystem of partners working to develop the enabling environment for structured finance in agriculture. UK-funded specialist development agency, FSD Africa provided support across legal and regulatory structuring, investor engagement, and market development, while the UK’s flagship public markets programme, MOBILIST, contributed to tax and structuring guidance.

“This transaction showcases how well-functioning market infrastructure can catalyse institutional capital for sectors traditionally considered high-risk, like smallholder agriculture. FSD Africa’s role has been to help build the foundations — from regulatory clarity to investor confidence — that make transactions like this viable and repeatable. We see this as a blueprint for how structured finance can unlock sustainable, large-scale funding for inclusive growth across Africa,” said Dr. Evans Osano, Chief Financial Markets Officer at FSD Africa.

“By supporting FSDA to demonstrate and enable innovation like this, we aim to make it more efficient to mobilize domestic sources of capital for women’s economic empowerment,” said Mark Wensley, Senior Program Officer at the Gates Foundation.

British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, provided technical assistance to its investee Apollo Agriculture through BII Plus. The foundational funding strengthens its reporting and technology capabilities, enabling access to a scalable, KES-denominated funding model that significantly reduces FX risk while achieving a more efficient and sustainable cost of capital for its growing loan portfolio.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaleidofin Private Limited.

About Kaleidofin: 
Kaleidofin is a fintech platform building inclusive risk infrastructure and debt capital markets across Africa and South Asia. We work with over 60 SDG focused originators such as fintechs, agtechs, MFIs, digital lenders, and climate-focused enterprises that extend credit to smallholder farmers, women entrepreneurs, and informal MSMEs. Our solutions include data-driven underwriting (ki score), portfolio risk tools (ki monitor), and structured finance vehicles/SPVs (ki platform) that are designed to help originators unlock scalable, affordable local currency financing and better their risk management capacity. To date, Kaleidofin has enabled over USD 10billion in productive credit for over 11 million end customers. For more information, visit https://www.Kaleidofin.com/  

About Apollo: 
Apollo Agriculture is a technology-driven agricultural finance company that provides smallholder farmers across Kenya with access to credit, farm inputs, insurance, and advisory services. By leveraging alternative data and machine learning to underwrite customers traditionally excluded from formal finance, Apollo enables farmers to invest in productivity-enhancing inputs and climate-resilient practices. Through its integrated approach to financing and farm support, Apollo Agriculture aims to improve farmers’ incomes and livelihoods while contributing to the development of sustainable, inclusive agricultural value chains. For more information, visit https://www.ApolloAgriculture.com/   

About IDH Farmfit Fund: 
The IDH Farmfit Fund is a blended finance impact fund for smallholder farmers, many of whom are amongst the poorest people in the world. The Fund can take the highest risk positions in smallholder farmer-related transactions, thereby reducing the risk currently borne by borrowers and lenders. By doing so, IDH Farmfit Fund aims to catalyse capital to co-invest in this sector. These investments will increase the availability of affordable, long-term financing to smallholder farmers, allowing them to invest in their farms, increase productivity and adopt climate-smart agriculture best practices, leading to improvements in their livelihoods and incomes. The IDH Farmfit Fund is facilitated by IDH Foundation, and supported by a unique coalition of partners, including commercial banks, development banks, government bodies and value chain companies. For more information, visit https:www.IDHSustainableTrade.com/Farmfit-Fund/

About FSD Africa: 
FSD Africa is a specialist development agency established in 2012 by the UK Government, working to make finance work for Africa’s future. We work on the ground in over 30 African countries to mobilise “green plus” finance that will power economic and social development while delivering environmental gains and building Africa’s resilience. We work on policy and regulatory reform, capacity strengthening and improving financial infrastructure, and addressing systemic challenges in Africa’s financial markets to spark large-scale and long-term change. Under its current strategy (2025-2030) the organisation seeks to mobilise £ 10 billion, improve access to basic financial services for 80 million and help create 200,000 jobs across Africa.

For more information, visit: https://www.FSDAfrica.org

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« Suis-je le gardien de mon frère ? » (Gn 4,9)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Symposium des Conférences Épiscopales d’Afrique et de Madagascar (SCEAM) (www.SECAM.org), organe de communion, de concertation et de coordination de l’Église catholique en Afrique et dans les îles voisines, suit avec une profonde inquiétude les récents événements en République d’Afrique du Sud, marqués par des actes de violence xénophobe à l’encontre de ressortissants d’autres pays africains.

Dans ces circonstances particulièrement graves, le SCEAM exprime sa solidarité fraternelle et ecclésiale envers la Conférence des Évêques d’Afrique Australe (SACBC) pour ses prises de position prophétiques en faveur des migrants africains victimes de discrimination et de xénophobie. Il adresse également sa compassion à toutes les victimes de ces violences et à leurs familles, durement éprouvées.

Au cœur de cette crise se trouve une interpellation fondamentale de la conscience humaine. La révélation biblique enseigne que chaque personne est créée à l’image et à la ressemblance de Dieu (Gn 1,26-27), une vérité qui fonde la dignité infinie de chaque être humain, indépendamment de son origine, nationalité, tribu, culture ou statut migratoire. Le SCEAM rappelle avec force que cette dignité doit rester le critère premier de toute organisation sociale et de toute politique publique. Toute violence dirigée contre des étrangers constitue non seulement une atteinte grave à la personne humaine, mais aussi une négation des fondements de la fraternité universelle et de l’Afrique que nous voulons.

Le SCEAM réaffirme la nécessité d’un équilibre entre la souveraineté légitime des États et l’exigence impérative pour les migrants de respecter les lois et coutumes de leur pays d’accueil.

Comme l’enseigne le Catéchisme de l’Église Catholique : « Les autorités politiques peuvent en vue du bien commun dont ils ont la charge subordonner l’exercice du droit d’immigration à diverses conditions juridiques, notamment au respect des devoirs des migrants à l’égard du pays d’adoption. L’immigré est tenu de respecter avec reconnaissance le patrimoine matériel et spirituel de son pays d’accueil, d’obéir à ses lois et de contribuer à ses charges. » (CEC, n. 2241).

Les violences récemment observées en Afrique du Sud constituent une grave violation des principes africains et du droit continental. Elles portent atteinte aux droits fondamentaux garantis par la Charte Africaine des Droits de l’Homme et des Peuples, notamment le droit à la vie, à la dignité, à la sécurité et à l’égalité devant la loi. Elles contredisent également les valeurs profondes du continent, telles que la solidarité africaine, l’esprit de l’Ubuntu – je suis parce que nous sommes – et les idéaux du panafricanisme et de la Renaissance Africaine.

Face à cette situation, le SCEAM appelle le Gouvernement de la République d’Afrique du Sud à prendre des mesures urgentes, concrètes et durables pour assurer la protection de toutes les personnes vivant sur son territoire, conformément à ses engagements continentaux et internationaux. Il l’exhorte à garantir des enquêtes impartiales, à identifier et à poursuivre en justice les responsables de ces actes, à mettre un terme à toute forme de justice parallèle et à renforcer l’autorité légitime de l’État.

Le SCEAM appelle également l’Union Africaine à assumer pleinement son rôle de garante des valeurs continentales, à veiller à l’application effective des instruments juridiques africains en matière de droits humains et à encourager la mise en place de mécanismes de prévention et d’alerte face aux violences xénophobes. Il en va de la crédibilité de l’Afrique qui aspire à devenir un acteur clé sur la scène internationale.

Le SCEAM invite les populations à rejeter toute forme de violence, toute rhétorique de haine et de stigmatisation, à refuser les discours qui divisent les peuples africains et à promouvoir une culture de la rencontre, de la palabre et de la fraternité africaines.

À l’exemple du Bon Samaritain (Lc 10,30-35), nous sommes tous appelés à redécouvrir une éthique de proximité, où l’étranger n’est pas perçu comme une menace, mais reconnu comme un frère ou une sœur dont nous sommes les gardiens. En ces heures critiques, le SCEAM réaffirme son engagement résolu en faveur des migrants, des pauvres et des plus vulnérables, pour promouvoir une société fondée sur la justice, la paix et la dignité humaine, ainsi que sur le dialogue entre les peuples et les nations africains. Il invite tous les hommes et femmes de bonne volonté à œuvrer sans relâche à la construction d’une Afrique réconciliée, fidèle à sa profonde vocation d’être, du Caire au Cap, une famille de peuples unis dans la dignité et la solidarité.

Enfin, le SCEAM assure toutes les victimes de violences xénophobes de sa proximité spirituelle, pastorale et solidaire : chers frères et sœurs, vous n’êtes pas seuls ; nous ne vous abandonnerons jamais !

†Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo
Archevêque de Kinshasa
Président du SCEAM

Distribué par APO Group pour Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

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«Sou eu o guardião do meu irmão?» (Gn 4,9)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

O Simpósio das Conferências Episcopais de África e Madagáscar (SCEAM) (www.SECAM.org), órgão de comunhão, concertação e coordenação da Igreja Católica em África e nas ilhas vizinhas, acompanha com profunda preocupação os recentes acontecimentos na República da África do Sul, marcados por actos de violência xenófoba contra cidadãos de outros países africanos.

Nestas circunstâncias particularmente graves, SCEAM expressa a sua solidariedade fraterna e eclesial para com a Conferência Episcopal da África Austral (SACBC) pelas suas posições proféticas em favor dos migrantes africanos vítimas de discriminação e xenofobia. Manifesta igualmente a sua compaixão por todas as vítimas destes actos de violência e pelas suas famílias, duramente provadas.

No cerne desta crise encontra-se um apelo fundamental à consciência humana. A revelação bíblica ensina que cada pessoa é criada à imagem e semelhança de Deus (Gn 1,26-27), uma verdade que fundamenta a dignidade infinita de cada ser humano, independentemente da sua origem, nacionalidade, tribo, cultura ou estatuto migratório. SCEAM reitera com veemência que esta dignidade deve continuar a ser o critério primordial de toda a organização social e de toda a política pública. Qualquer violência dirigida contra estrangeiros constitui não só uma grave violação da pessoa humana, mas também uma negação dos fundamentos da fraternidade universal e da África que desejamos.

SCEAM reafirma a necessidade de um equilíbrio entre a soberania legítima dos Estados e a exigência imperativa de que os migrantes respeitem as leis e os costumes do seu país de acolhimento. Como ensina o Catecismo da Igreja Católica: «As autoridades políticas podem, tendo em vista o bem comum de que são responsáveis, subordinar o exercício do direito de imigração a diversas condições jurídicas, nomeadamente ao respeito pelos deveres dos migrantes para com o país de acolhimento. O imigrante é obrigado a respeitar com gratidão o património material e espiritual do seu país de acolhimento, a obedecer às suas leis e a contribuir para os seus encargos. » (CEC, n.º 2241).

A violência recentemente observada na África do Sul constitui uma grave violação dos princípios africanos e do direito continental. Ela atenta contra os direitos fundamentais garantidos pela Carta Africana dos Direitos Humanos e dos Povos, nomeadamente o direito à vida, à dignidade, à segurança e à igualdade perante a lei. Contradizem igualmente os valores profundos do continente, tais como a solidariedade africana, o espírito do Ubuntu – eu sou porque nós somos – e os ideais do pan-africanismo e do Renascimento Africano.

Perante esta situação, SCEAM apela ao Governo da República da África do Sul para que tome medidas urgentes, concretas e duradouras para garantir a proteção de todas as pessoas que vivem no seu território, em conformidade com os seus compromissos continentais e internacionais. Exorta-a a garantir inquéritos imparciais, a identificar e a levar a tribunal os responsáveis por estes actos, a pôr fim a qualquer forma de justiça paralela e a reforçar a autoridade legítima do Estado.

SCEAM apela igualmente à União Africana para que assuma plenamente o seu papel de garante dos valores continentais, zele pela aplicação efetiva dos instrumentos jurídicos africanos em matéria de direitos humanos e incentive a criação de mecanismos de prevenção e alerta face à violência xenófoba. Está em causa a credibilidade de África, que aspira a tornar-se um actor-chave na cena internacional.

SCEAM convida as populações a rejeitarem toda e qualquer forma de violência, toda a retórica de ódio e estigmatização, a recusarem os discursos que dividem os povos africanos e a promoverem uma cultura do encontro, do diá. e da fraternidade africanas.

À semelhança do Bom Samaritano (Lc 10,30-35), somos todos chamados a redescobrir uma ética da proximidade, em que o estrangeiro não é visto como uma ameaça, mas reconhecido como um irmão ou uma irmã de quem somos guardiões.

Nestas horas críticas, SCEAM reafirma o seu compromisso firme em favor dos migrantes, dos pobres e dos mais vulneráveis, para promover uma sociedade baseada na justiça, na paz e na dignidade humana, bem como no diá. entre os povos e as nações africanas. Convida todos os homens e mulheres de boa vontade a trabalharem incansavelmente na construção de uma África reconciliada, fiel à sua profunda vocação de ser, do Cairo ao Cabo, uma família de povos unidos na dignidade e na solidariedade.

Por fim, SCEAM assegura a todas as vítimas de violência xenófoba a sua proximidade espiritual, pastoral e solidária: queridos irmãos e irmãs, não estão sozinhos; nunca vos abandonaremos!

†Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo
Arccebispo de Kinshasa
Presidente do SCEAM

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

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Africa Mercy Brings Life-Changing Surgeries Back to Madagascar After Cyclone Gezani

Source: APO

The hospital ship Africa Mercy® arrived in Toamasina yesterday, marking the sixth time that Mercy Ships (https://MercyShips.org) has visited the island nation since 1996. It is also her third consecutive field service to the country, reaffirming the strength of a growing partnership between Mercy Ships and the government of Madagascar.

Following the recent devastation of Cyclone Gezani, the return of the Africa Mercy comes at a meaningful moment for the country. While parts of Madagascar continue to recover, Mercy Ships expresses solidarity with its people and remains committed to supporting the nation’s ongoing recovery efforts through safe surgical care and long-term strengthening of its health systems.

“Returning to Madagascar for the third consecutive year is a powerful reflection of trust, partnership, and shared ambition,” said Nicholas Ahadjie, Country Director for Mercy Ships in Madagascar. “In a time of recovery following the cyclone, we are grateful to stand alongside the government and people of Madagascar, supporting both surgical needs and long-term resilience in healthcare.”

During the upcoming 2026 field service, Mercy Ships estimates to provide more than 1,400 surgeries, along with more than 1,400 dental encounters. Alongside these free life-changing interventions, the organization will invest in strengthening the country’s health systems by providing more than 22,500 hours of training and education for healthcare professionals across Madagascar.

Mercy Ships is honored to work closely with the newly appointed Minister of Health, Dr. Managna Monira, whose leadership reinforces the importance of strong collaboration in advancing national health priorities.

“Strengthening our surgical system remains a top priority for the Ministry of Public Health, and partnerships like the one with Mercy Ships are key to making this vision a reality,” said Dr. Managna Monira. “Together, we are working to ensure that high-quality surgical care is more accessible to the Malagasy people, while building a stronger, more resilient and sustainable health system.”

Madagascar’s National Surgical, Obstetric, and Anesthesia Plan (NSOAP) continues to guide the development of its national surgical system. Working in close partnership with the Ministry of Health, Mercy Ships continues to align its activities with the country’s healthcare strategy, supporting patient selection across multiple regions and ensuring those most in need can access specialized surgical care in areas such as general, pediatric, maxillofacial, orthopedic, ophthalmic, reconstructive plastic, and women’s health.

Beyond hospital ships, Mercy Ships’ work in Madagascar is anchored to a broader ecosystem of programs designed to strengthen healthcare in Madagascar over the long term. Initiatives such as surgical education and training, infrastructure support, and targeted programs – including the treatment of clubfoot (https://apo-opa.co/42hSGW8) – are implemented in collaboration with national and local partners. These efforts ensure that care continues, even after the ship leaves, for generations to come.

“Over the past few years, we have worked closely with partners across Madagascar to support clinical education and training, and contribute to national priorities for surgical care,” said Brendan Smith, Senior Director of Programs at Mercy Ships. “As we return, our focus is on working with our partners and stakeholders on what has already been established, ensuring that the progress made continues to strengthen surgical systems and support healthcare professionals beyond the field service.”

Mercy Ships will also continue to partner with Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), Freedom From Fistula (FFF), and the University of Mahajanga, while also seeking to establish additional partnerships to continue improving access to healthcare in the country.

Since first serving the Malagasy people in 1996, Mercy Ships has delivered more than 10,940 life-changing surgical procedures and over 66,640 dental procedures, while training thousands of healthcare professionals in their areas of expertise.

This ongoing collaboration is propelling a stronger, more sustainable surgical ecosystem for the future of Madagascar.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.

About Mercy Ships:
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.

Each year, 2,500+ volunteer professionals from more than 70 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit www.MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.

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NCOP to take ‘Parliament to the People’ programme to the North West

Source: Government of South Africa

NCOP to take ‘Parliament to the People’ programme to the North West

The National Council of Provinces (NCOP), led by Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, will roll out its flagship public participation and oversight programme, Taking Parliament to the People (TPTTP), to the Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality in the North West next week.

The programme will run from 12 to 15 May 2026, under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of the Constitution: Deepening Participatory Democracy for Service Delivery.”

TPTTP forms part of the NCOP’s constitutional mandate in terms of Section 72, which requires Parliament to facilitate public participation and conduct its business in an open and transparent manner.

Parliament’s spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said the NCOP, as the House representing provincial and local interests at national level, plays a unique and critical role in strengthening South Africa’s democracy.

“Its core functions include oversight over local and provincial government; cooperative governance and protecting provincial interests. The NCOP acts as a bridge, ensuring that provincial and local concerns inform national policy and legislation,” Mothapo said.

He added that the TPTTP programme creates a direct platform for collaboration by bringing together all three spheres of government to the same table, with the same communities.

“Through the TPTTP, delegates to the NCOP assess service delivery challenges first-hand and hold government leaders accountable. The programme, therefore, is not merely a public dialogue but a constitutional exercise in participatory democracy, accountability and cooperative governance. It brings democracy to life at the grassroots level by enabling citizens to voice their concerns and contribute directly to decision-making processes,” Mothapo explained.

It also provides a unique platform for all three spheres of government, including national, provincial and local, to engage collectively on service delivery challenges and policy matters affecting communities.

The programme will enable communities in the Kenneth Kaunda District and surrounding municipalities to engage directly with government leaders on key service delivery issues.

These include local economic development and job creation; infrastructure maintenance, covering water and sanitation, roads, electricity, human settlements, health, and mining; as well as financial management and governance.

Activities will include public hearings, oversight visits to service delivery hotspots, and direct engagements with permanent delegates to the NCOP, Ministers, Members of Provincial Legislatures (MPLs), and local councillors.– SAnews.gov.za

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L’Africa Mercy revient à Madagascar après le cyclone Gezani pour dispenser des interventions chirurgicales gratuites qui transforment des vies

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le navire-hôpital Africa Mercy® est arrivé hier à Toamasina, marquant la sixième visite de Mercy Ships (https://MercyShips.org) dans cette nation insulaire depuis 1996, et la troisième mission consécutive du navire, réaffirmant ainsi le partenariat solide et grandissant entre Mercy Ships et le gouvernement de Madagascar.

À la suite du récent cyclone dévastateur qui a touché certaines régions du pays, le retour de l’Africa Mercy intervient à un moment crucial. Alors que certaines régions du pays continuent de se relever, l’ONG exprime sa solidarité envers le peuple malgache et reste déterminée à soutenir les efforts continus de reconstruction en cours à travers des soins chirurgicaux sûrs et le renforcement à long terme du système de santé.

« Revenir à Madagascar pour la troisième année consécutive est un témoignage fort de confiance, de partenariat et d’ambition commune », a déclaré Nicholas Ahadjie, Directeur de Mercy Ships à Madagascar. « En cette période de reconstruction après le passage du cyclone, nous sommes reconnaissants de pouvoir nous tenir aux côtés du gouvernement et du peuple malgache, en répondant à la fois aux besoins chirurgicaux et en renforçant la résilience à long terme du système de santé. »

Au cours de la mission de 2026, Mercy Ships prévoit de réaliser plus de 1 400 interventions chirurgicales, et plus de 1 400 consultations dentaires. Parallèlement à ces opérations gratuites, l’ONG s’engage à investir dans le renforcement des systèmes de santé du pays en proposant plus de 22 500 heures de formation aux professionnels de santé à travers tout Madagascar.

Mercy Ships est honorée de travailler en étroite collaboration avec la nouvelle Ministre de la Santé, le Dr Managna Monira, dont le leadership renforce l’importance d’une collaboration solide pour faire progresser les priorités nationales en matière de santé.

« Le renforcement de notre système chirurgical reste une priorité pour le Ministère de la Santé Publique, et des partenariats tels que celui avec Mercy Ships jouent un rôle essentiel dans l’aboutissement de cette vision », a expliqué le Dr Managna Monira. « Ensemble, nous travaillons à ce que des soins chirurgicaux de haute qualité deviennent plus accessibles pour la population malgache, et le système plus résilient et durable. »

Le Plan National de Chirurgie, d’Obstétrique et d’Anesthésie (PNCOA) de Madagascar continue de guider le développement du système chirurgical du pays. En étroite collaboration avec le Ministère de la Santé, Mercy Ships continue d’aligner ses activités sur la stratégie sanitaire du pays, en soutenant la sélection des patients dans plusieurs régions de l’île et en veillant à ce que les plus démunis puissent accéder à des soins chirurgicaux spécialisés dans des domaines tels que la chirurgie générale, pédiatrique, maxillo-faciale, orthopédique, ophtalmologique, plastique reconstructive et de la santé des femmes.

La mission de Mercy Ships à Madagascar s’inscrit, au-delà du navire-hôpital, dans un écosystème plus large de programmes conçus pour renforcer les soins de santé à long terme. Des initiatives comme l’enseignement et la formation en chirurgie, le soutien aux infrastructures et des programmes ciblés – notamment le traitement du pied bot (https://apo-opa.co/4dsnjOR) – sont mises en œuvre en collaboration avec des partenaires nationaux et locaux. Ces efforts garantissent la pérennité des soins au-delà de la présence du navire, pour les générations à venir.

« Au cours des dernières années, nous avons travaillé en étroite collaboration avec des partenaires de tout le pays pour soutenir l’enseignement et la formation cliniques, et contribuer aux priorités nationales en matière de soins chirurgicaux », a déclaré Brendan Smith, Directeur des Programmes chez Mercy Ships. « À notre retour, nous agirons en priorité avec nos partenaires et les différents acteurs impliqués sur ce qui a déjà été mis en place, afin de veiller à ce que les progrès réalisés continuent de renforcer les systèmes chirurgicaux et de soutenir les professionnels de santé au-delà de nos missions sur le navire. »

Mercy Ships continuera également à travailler étroitement avec les ONG ‘Mission Aviation Fellowship’ (MAF) et ‘Freedom From Fistula’ (FFF), ainsi qu’avec l’Université de Mahajanga, et à tisser de nouveaux partenariats afin de poursuivre l’amélioration de l’accès aux soins de santé dans le pays.

Depuis ses débuts à Madagascar en 1996, Mercy Ships a réalisé plus de 10 940 actes chirurgicaux qui ont transformé la vie de patients, et plus de 66 640 actes dentaires, tout en formant des milliers de professionnels de santé dans leurs domaines d’expertise.

Cette collaboration soutenue favorise la mise en place d’un écosystème chirurgical plus solide et plus durable pour l’avenir de Madagascar.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mercy Ships.

À propos de Mercy Ships :
d’autres services de santé aux populations ayant un accès limité à des soins médicaux sûrs. Organisation internationale d’inspiration chrétienne, Mercy Ships se consacre exclusivement depuis plus de trente ans à des partenariats avec des pays africains. En collaboration avec des partenaires locaux, Mercy Ships propose également des formations aux professionnels de santé et soutient la construction d’infrastructures médicales durables. 

Chaque année, plus de 2 500 professionnels bénévoles originaires de plus de 70 pays servent à bord des deux plus grands navires-hôpitaux non gouvernementaux au monde, l’Africa Mercy® et le Global Mercy™. Chirurgiens, dentistes, infirmiers, formateurs en santé, cuisiniers et ingénieurs mettent leurs compétences au service de l’accès à des soins chirurgicaux et anesthésiques sûrs. Mercy Ships a été fondée en 1978 et dispose de bureaux dans 16 pays ainsi que d’un Centre de services africain à Dakar, au Sénégal. 

Pour plus d’informations, rendez-vous sur https://MercyShips.org et suivez @MercyShips sur les réseaux sociaux. 

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Macpherson calls for swift prosecution in George building case

Source: Government of South Africa

Macpherson calls for swift prosecution in George building case

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has called on the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to take decisive prosecutorial action following the completion of the South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation into the George building collapse.

The appeal comes as the country marks the second anniversary of the tragedy, which claimed 34 lives and left 28 people injured.

On 6 May 2024, a five-storey apartment block under construction in George collapsed in what remains South Africa’s deadliest building disaster in recent years.

Macpherson said the incident continues to serve as a stark reminder of the work still required to prevent similar disasters from taking place in future.

“With SAPS having completed its investigation, the responsibility now rests with the National Prosecuting Authority to take the necessary prosecutorial decisions and, where warranted, bring those responsible to court for this avoidable tragedy,” the Minister said.

Since assuming office shortly after the collapse, the Minister has engaged with those affected and victims’ families. He has also visited George to share findings from an investigation into the engineer who signed off on the building plans. The engineer was subsequently found guilty of five legal contraventions and suspended.

Macpherson has also met with Human Settlements Minister Thembisile Simelane to strengthen building regulations and oversight mechanisms aimed at preventing future incidents.

Reflecting on the anniversary, the Minister paid tribute to those affected and reiterated the need for accountability.

“Today, we remember every life lost, every family still grieving, and every survivor who continues to live with the consequences of this tragedy. The George building collapse remains one of the most painful construction disasters in our country’s recent history,” the Minister said.

He stressed that accountability must apply to all parties involved.

“It was a disaster that should never have happened and must never be allowed to happen again. No one should be above the law — not an engineer, not a developer, not an official, nor anyone whose actions or failure may have contributed to this disaster. Justice delayed only deepens the pain of families who have already waited too long for answers,” Macpherson said.

The Minister assured that his department will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies and relevant departments to support the pursuit of justice.

“On this second anniversary, we once again express our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. We stand with the survivors, honour the rescue workers, and renew our commitment to ensuring accountability is enforced, and that a tragedy like the George building collapse never happens again,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Rural women’s cooperative transforms lives in KwaZulu-Natal

Source: Government of South Africa

Rural women’s cooperative transforms lives in KwaZulu-Natal

In the quiet rural village of Ezindophi in KwaZulu-Natal’s uMlalazi Local Municipality, a group of determined women are rewriting the story of hardship into one of hope, dignity and opportunity.

What began as a small collective of five community members in 2005 has grown into the Qalekhaya Shining Star Cooperative (QSSC), a thriving, women-led enterprise changing lives through skills development, job creation, and social support.

Founded with a vision to tackle poverty, unemployment, and gender-based violence (GBV), the cooperative has become a lifeline for many women and young people in the area, particularly those with limited access to economic opportunities.

Today, QSSC’s activities range from clothing and furniture manufacturing to food security initiatives. At its core, however, is a commitment to uplifting unemployed women, including survivors of GBV, by equipping them with practical skills and a path to financial independence.

With support from the National Development Agency (NDA), the cooperative has steadily expanded its reach and impact. Funding in 2021 enabled the purchase of essential equipment, including a generator that keeps operations running even during power disruptions. It also boosted production of school desks, benches and coffins supplied to local schools and communities.

But beyond production, the cooperative’s true impact is felt in households.

Through an NDA-supported volunteer programme, QSSC introduced the One-Home-One-Garden Project, encouraging families to grow their own food and improve household nutrition. This initiative later evolved into Shining Star Community Development, which tackles GBV and other social challenges at grassroots level.

More recently, additional support for sewing equipment has opened new doors for women rebuilding their lives after abuse. The programme offers training, mentorship and enterprise development, turning vulnerability into empowerment.

For beneficiaries like Phumzile Khoza, the change has been life-altering.

“I have successfully completed the sewing programme. I can now make full garments and have started helping other women reach my level. I am able to earn an income for myself,” she said.

Her story is one of many emerging from the cooperative, stories of resilience, growth, and renewed purpose.

During a recent oversight visit, Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe described the initiative as proof of what is possible when rural communities are supported.

“We have not only heard but seen that when rural women and youth are given the right tools and support, they can build sustainable enterprises that change entire communities,” she said.

The Minister also stressed the importance of accountability in the use of public funds and called for successful models like QSSC to be replicated across the country.

Recognised by local authorities as a high-performing initiative, the cooperative continues to grow through partnerships with government departments and organisations, including KZN Wildlife, Department of Rural Development, Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, and Social Development.

For the women of Ezindophi, QSSC is more than a project, it is a symbol of what can happen when opportunity meets determination. In a place once defined by scarcity, it now stands as a beacon of possibility. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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News consumption trends change face of journalism

Source: Government of South Africa

News consumption trends change face of journalism

The impact of technology and rising uptake of social media are making an indelible mark on the landscape of journalism, shifting South African audiences from passive consumers to active participants in the news cycle.

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong on Wednesday said audiences are developing new “news habits” that are transforming the role of journalists and media institutions.

“The good deal of what we know about our world, we know because of journalism,” Morolong said.

Speaking at the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) Funders’ Breakfast in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, Morolong said technology, smarter phones and faster internet — coupled with the rise of multinational social media platforms — pull audiences away from local content and shrink revenue streams for news organisations.

“Audiences are also increasingly involved in both curating media for sharing and in commenting, or in other ways augmenting the media they share,” he said.

He warned that digital news consumption, particularly via mobile phones and social media, is fragmenting audiences, weakening traditional income sources.

Printed newspapers — from community titles to established publications — are closing or scaling down at a considerable pace, while community publishers are increasingly struggling to survive.

“While South African news organisations are developing some new business models and income streams that might sustain independent news journalism into the future, this is not happening fast enough or across enough platforms to forestall a likely decline in media diversity, despite the affordances of mobile Internet,” Morolong said.

In the midst of these challenges, Morolong acknowledged the role of funders and partners in keeping community media alive.

“… [Let me extend] government’s deep appreciation for the vital role you play in building a vibrant and sustainable community media landscape.

“Today, we recognise your unwavering commitment and acknowledge the critical role that you, our funders and partners, have made in advancing media development and diversity in our nation.”

He emphasised that while the MDDA often measures its success through the number of community stations supported, the voices amplified and the reach achieved, the true foundation of that impact is anchored in partnerships.

“Behind every one of those measures lies a simple truth — none of it would be possible without partnerships,” he said.

The MDDA is a South African statutory body established in 2003 (Act No. 14 of 2002) to promote media development and diversity. It provides grant funding, training and research support to community and small commercial media, fostering a vibrant, innovative, sustainable, and people-centered sector, particularly in historically disadvantaged communities.

Changing times

Morolong highlighted the financial strain facing the community media csector, noting that the MDDA relies on limited public funds, which must be spread across many beneficiaries.

As a result, many community media outlets operate on tight margins, grappling with high operational costs that too often lead to unsustainability, particularly for smaller projects that struggle to meet regulatory requirements, such as audited financial statements.

Morolong said that 30% funding for community media is now government policy.

“These community radio stations, television broadcasters and print publications exist because of the ecosystem we have collectively built.

“They provide a platform for diverse perspectives, echoing the voices of the citizens they serve and facilitating the fundamental right to freedom of expression.”

He stressed that community media plays a direct role in strengthening democracy by improving access to information and contributing to better social and economic conditions.

With the first community station licensed in February 1995, the sector has grown into a powerful platform reflecting South Africa’s diversity.

Today, stations broadcast in a range of indigenous languages, including Nama and Khilobedu, ensuring that stories are told in languages that resonate most with communities.

Together, they reach an estimated four million listeners across all nine provinces, acting as a vital bridge for both information and culture.

Morolong said the sector’s resilience is supported by key industry bodies such as the National Community Radio Forum, the National Association of Broadcasters and the South African Community Radio Organisation, which continue to guide its growth.

Opening the event, MDDA representative Qondile Khedama underscored the importance of collaboration, telling delegates that the agency’s progress is rooted in strong stakeholder relationships.

“Without interaction with you, the MDDA would not be where it is today. Our interaction with you shows that you are one of the critical stakeholders,” he said.

Khedama called for robust discussions and forward-looking plans to ensure the sustainability of community media, stressing its critical role in local development.

Also addressing the gathering, Sandile Nene, Acting Deputy Director-General for Content Processing and Dissemination at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), acknowledged stakeholder support and reiterated government’s financial commitment through the 30 percent grant.

Nene reminded delegates that South Africa operates within a three-tier broadcasting system and that the MDDA was established as a statutory body to promote media development and diversity.

The MDDA Funders’ Breakfast brought together representatives from community radio stations, newspapers and government, creating a platform not only for reflection, but for charting a path forward. – SAnews.gov.za

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