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Qatar Participates in High-level Commemorative Event Marking ICERD 60th Anniversary

Source: Government of Qatar

Geneva, December 04, 2025

The State of Qatar participated Thursday in the high-level commemorative event marking the 60th anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva.
HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva Dr. Hind bint Abdalrahman Al Muftah represented the State of Qatar at the event.
In her speech on behalf of the State of Qatar, Her Excellency noted that the 60th anniversary of the ICERD is an important milestone and a landmark in international and national efforts to promote global respect for the values of equality and to combat discrimination in all its forms, and provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made and to highlight the challenges that still exist.
Her Excellency said that the State of Qatar fully believes in the importance of eliminating racism and racial discrimination in all their manifestations and forms.

She added that the State of Qatar has taken advanced steps within the framework of its efforts to promote the values of equality and spread the discourse of tolerance and acceptance of others, and has worked to adopt policies and plans that promote a pluralistic and safe social environment free from tensions, manifestations of intolerance, hatred and discrimination, based on its firm conviction that racism and racial discrimination constitute a violation of all international and national charters and norms. She noted that people of different races, religions and cultural backgrounds from all over the world currently live on the land of Qatar.
Her Excellency affirmed that the State of Qatar, on this occasion, pledges to continue its national and international efforts and to take further measures that contribute to strengthening the implementation of the convention and achieving the goal of a world free from racism.

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Dr. Rasha Kelej s’entretient avec la Première Dame du Nigéria au sujet de leurs programmes conjoints visant à renforcer les capacités des secteurs de la santé et des médias, et à soutenir l’éducation des filles, lors de la 12ème édition de la conférence Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, a récemment organisé la 12ème édition de sa conférence annuelle, « Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary », en partenariat avec le gouvernement gambien. La conférence était coprésidée par S.E. Mme FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, Première Dame de Gambie et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère », et le Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO de la Fondation Merck et Présidente de « Plus Qu’une Mère ». La Première Dame du Nigéria, S.E. Sénatrice OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, ainsi que les Premières Dames du Burundi, Republique Centrafricaine, Libéria, Sao Tomé-et-Principe et Sénégal, ont participé en tant qu’invitées d’honneur et oratrices principales.

Dr. Rasha Kelej a déclaré : « J’ai eu le plaisir de rencontrer ma chère sœur, S.E. Sénatrice OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Première Dame de la République Fédérale du Nigéria et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère », lors de notre 12ème édition d’Africa Asia Luminary 2025. Nous avons discuté de nos programmes communs visant à renforcer les capacités du système de santé nigérian par l’octroi de bourses d’études à des médecins nigérians. Je suis fière d’annoncer qu’à ce jour, nous avons octroyé 82 bourses à des professionnels de santé nigérians dans de nombreuses spécialités essentielles et sous-desservies, telles que la Fertilité, Embryologie, Santé Sexuelle et Reproductive, Santé des Femmes, Oncologie, Diabète, Endocrinologie, Prévention Cardiovasculaire, Cardiologie, Prise en Charge de l’Obésité et du Poids, Médecine d’Urgence, Pneumologie, Dermatologie, Rhumatologie, Soins Intensifs, Psychiatrie, Gériatrie et Prise en Charge de la Douleur. Ensemble, nous continuerons à œuvrer étroitement pour transformer l’avenir des soins aux patients au Nigéria. »

S.E. Sénatrice OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Première Dame de la République Fédérale du Nigéria et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère », a souligné : « J’accorde une grande importance à notre partenariat fructueux avec la Fondation Merck et j’apprécie tous ses programmes. Je suis particulièrement enthousiaste à propos du programme « Éduquer Linda », grâce auquel nous attribuerons chaque année des bourses d’études à 71 de nos écolières les plus brillantes mais issues de milieux défavorisés, jusqu’à l’obtention de leur diplôme. Je crois fermement en l’autonomisation des filles par l’éducation, car elle joue un rôle crucial dans la construction de nations plus fortes et plus saines ; c’est l’un des objectifs clés de la stratégie de mon bureau. Par ailleurs, je suis heureuse d’annoncer que la Fondation Merck a octroyé 82 bourses d’études à nos professionnels de santé, dans de nombreuses spécialités essentielles. »

Regardez la vidéo de la Première Dame du Nigéria et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » lors de la deuxième journée du Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 : https://apo-opa.co/48BplbY

Regardez la vidéo de la CEO de la Fondation Merck, Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej, recevant S.E. Sénatrice OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Première Dame de la République Fédérale du Nigéria et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » : https://apo-opa.co/3KcysI3

Le premier jour de la conférence s’est tenu la Session Plénière du Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025, avec les discours d’ouverture des Premières Dames d’Afrique. Par ailleurs, une table ronde ministérielle de haut niveau a réuni des ministres africains afin d’échanger sur la stratégie du Sommet de Recherche Africaine de la Fondation Merck – MARS visant à renforcer les capacités de recherche scientifique et à promouvoir l’autonomisation des femmes dans les domaines des sciences, des technologies, de l’ingénierie et des mathématiques (STEM), en particulier dans le domaine de la recherche scientifique. 

Le deuxième jour du Sommet, une réunion du comité de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck – MFFLI a eu lieu entre les Premières Dames d’Afrique et le Chairman et la CEO de la Fondation Merck. Au cours de cette réunion, les Premières Dames d’Afrique et d’Asie ont partagé le rapport d’impact des programmes de la Fondation Merck dans leurs pays respectifs et ont discuté de la stratégie future.

Regardez la vidéo de la réunion du comité MFFLI : https://apo-opa.co/4oElHUK

En collaboration avec la Première Dame du Nigéria, la Fondation Merck a octroyé 82 bourses d’études à des médecins nigérians dans de nombreuses spécialités essentielles et sous-représentées. Résumé des 82 bourses :

  • 14 bourses en Fertilité, Embryologie, Diplôme d’un an et Master de deux ans en Soins Sexuels et Reproductifs et Santé des Femmes. Ces bourses joueront un rôle essentiel dans l’amélioration des soins de santé des femmes en général, avec un accent particulier sur la fertilité et les soins reproductifs.
  • 39 bourses accordées à nos jeunes médecins de différentes provinces pour la recherche en Oncologie, Diplôme d’un an et Master de deux ans sur le Diabète, Endocrinologie, Prévention Cardiovasculaire, Cardiologie et Gestion de l’Obésité et du Poids, dans le cadre du Programme National de Points Bleus du Diabète de la Fondation Merck. Ce programme permettra aux médecins de créer des cliniques spécialisées sur la prise en charge du diabète et l’hypertension au sein de leurs centres de santé ou hôpitaux, afin de prévenir et de prendre en charge ces pathologies au sein de leurs communautés.
  • 3 bourses ont été attribuées en Recherche en Oncologie, Oncologie Médicale et en Prise en Charge de la Douleur, dans le cadre du Programme des Soins contre le Cancer de la Fondation Merck.
  • En outre, 26 bourses ont été attribuées en Médecine d’Urgence, Soins Respiratoires, Dermatologie, Rhumatologie, Soins Intensifs, Maladies Infectieuses, Psychiatrie, Soins aux Personnes âgées.

« La Fondation Merck a toujours cru en l’importance du renforcement des capacités du système de santé et œuvre en ce sens depuis 2012. À ce jour, nous avons octroyé plus de 2 400 bourses à des professionnels de santé issus de 52 pays, dans 44 spécialités médicales essentielles et sous-dotées. Nous continuerons à financer les études de médecins nigérians et internationaux », a ajouté le Dr. Kelej.

La Fondation Merck a également lancé un Appel à Candidatures pour ses 8 prix importants, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Nigeria, destinés aux médias, aux musiciens, aux créateurs de mode, aux cinéastes, aux étudiants et aux nouveaux talents potentiels dans ces domaines.

De plus, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Nigéria, la Fondation Merck a également lancé sept livres d’histoires pour enfants : « Plus Qu’une Mère », « Éduquer Linda », « Le Secours de Jackline », « Pas Qui Vous êtes », « Une Balade vers le Futur », « Jude Sans Sucre », « La Tension de Mark », et « Une Lumière d’Espoir ». Ces livres abordent diverses questions sociales et sanitaires, telles que la lutte contre la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, le soutien à l’éducation des filles, la lutte contre la violence sexiste, la sensibilisation sur le diabète et l’hypertension. Des milliers d’exemplaires des livres d’histoires seront distribués aux écoliers.

La 12ème édition du Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary a été diffusée en direct sur les réseaux sociaux de Merck Foundation et Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO de la Fondation Merck.

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3XAwioE), X (http://apo-opa.co/4oBhf94), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/48RAlmL), et YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/48QWLoe).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/49RgxB0), X (http://apo-opa.co/3XALMJk), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/49SMqJq), et YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4ptjNYb).

Lien vers la retransmission en direct sur Facebook de la Session Inaugurale du Panel de Haut Niveau des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/49Ru6Ap

Résumé des initiatives et de l’impact de la Fondation Merck :

La Fondation Merck transforme le paysage des soins aux patients et écrit l’histoire avec ses partenaires en Afrique, en Asie et au-delà, à travers :

  • Plus de 2400 Bourses offertes par la Fondation Merck pour les médecins de 52 pays dans 44 spécialités médicales critiques et mal desservies.  

La Fondation Merck crée également un changement de culture et brise le silence sur un large éventail de problèmes sociaux et sanitaires en Afrique et dans les communautés mal desservies grâce à :

  • Plus de 3700 Journalistes de plus de 35 pays formés par la Fondation Merck pour mieux sensibiliser le public sur les différents problèmes sociaux et sanitaires.
  • 8 Prix Différents lancés chaque année pour la meilleure couverture médiatique, les créateurs de mode, les films et les chansons.
  • Environ 30 chansons pour aborder les problèmes sanitaires et sociaux par des chanteurs locaux à travers l’Afrique.
  • 9 livres de contes pour enfants en quatre langues – anglais, français, portugais, et swahili.
  • 6 Films d’Animation de Sensibilisation en cinq langues : Anglais, Français, Portugais, Espagnol et Swahili visant à lutter contre la stigmatisation de l’infertilité, à soutenir l’éducation des filles et à promouvoir la prévention et le dépistage précoce du diabète, de l’hypertension et du cancer.
  • Programme Télévisé Panafricain « Notre Afrique par la Fondation Merck » abordant les problèmes sociaux et sanitaires en Afrique à travers la communauté « Mode et L’Art avec un But ».
  • Plus de 1040 bourses d’études sont octroyées chaque année à des écolières africaines brillantes mais défavorisées, issues de 18 pays, afin de les aider à poursuivre leurs études et à réaliser pleinement leur potentiel.
  • 15 chaînes de réseaux sociaux avec plus de 8.5 millions d’abonnés.

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 : 
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Flickr : https://apo-opa.co/4pj42Tz
Website : www.Merck-Foundation.com
Télécharger l’Application de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/3MaIOJ7

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/49XcBPe), X (https://apo-opa.co/449mdmb), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/49T8Fit), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4479a4I), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4pUTLgt) et Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4pj42Tz).

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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Dr. Rasha Kelej discusses with Nigeria First Lady their joint programs to build healthcare and media capacity and Support Girl Education at 12th Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025

Source: APO – Report:

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, recently conducted the 12th Edition of their annual conference, “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary”, in partnership with the Government of The Gambia. The conference was co-chaired by H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of Gambia & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of More Than a Mother. The First Lady of Nigeria, H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, along with The First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, Liberia, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Senegal joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.

Dr. Rasha Kelej said, “I was delighted to meet my dear sister, H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’, at our 12th Africa Asia Luminary 2025. We discussed our joint programs to build and advance healthcare capacity by providing scholarships for local Nigerian doctors. I am proud to share that till now we have provided 82 scholarships for local Nigerian healthcare providers in many critical and underserved specialties like Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Care, Women’s Health, Oncology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Cardiology and Obesity & Weight Management, Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Critical Care, Psychiatry, Care for Older Person and Pain Management. Together, we will continue to work closely to transform future of patient care in Nigeria.”

H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’ emphasized, “I deeply value our meaningful partnership with Merck Foundation and also appreciate all their programs. I am particularly excited about Educating Linda Program through which we will be providing annual scholarships to 71 of our top-performing but under privileged schoolgirls in secondary school until their graduation. I firmly believe in empowering girls through education, as it plays a crucial role in building stronger and healthier nations, this is one of the key objectives of my office’s strategy. Moreover, I am happy to share that Merck Foundation has provided 82 scholarships for our healthcare providers, in many critical specialties.”

Watch the Video of The First Lady of Nigeria & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Day 2 of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/48BplbY

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’: https://apo-opa.co/3KcysI3

On Day 1 of the conference, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 took place, featuring keynote speeches of First Ladies of Africa. Moreover, a high-level ministerial panel discussion was also held with African Ministers to discuss the Merck Foundation African Research Summit MARS strategy to build scientific research capacity and empower women in STEM with special focus on scientific research. 

On Day 2 of the conference, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.

Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/4oElHUK

Together with Nigeria First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 82 scholarships for local doctors in Nigeria in many critical and underserved specialties. Summary of 82 scholarships:

  • 14 Scholarships have been provided for Fertility, Embryology and one year diploma and two-year master degree in Sexual and Reproductive Care, Women’s Health and Family Medicine. These scholarships are very critical for enhancing women’s health in general, and reproductive health in particular.
  • 39 scholarships are being provided one year diploma and two-year master degree of Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Cardiology and Obesity & Weight Management, under the Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes Blue Points Program. Upon completing the course, these doctors can establish diabetes or hypertension clinics within their respective health centers or hospitals, which will enable them to provide essential care, helping to prevent and manage these conditions within their own communities.
  • 3 scholarships have been provided for Oncology Research, Medical Oncology and Pain Management, as part of Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program.
  • Moreover, 26 scholarships have been provided for Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Critical Care, Dermatology, Infectious Diseases, Psychiatry, and Care for Older Person.

“Merck Foundation has always believed in the importance of building healthcare capacity and has been working for it since 2012. We have so far provided more than 2400 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. We will continue to provide scholarships of doctors from Nigeria and beyond,” added Dr. Kelej.

Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Nigeria for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Nigeria, Merck Foundation is launching their children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, “Mark’s Pressure”, and “Ray of Hope”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness. Thousands of copies of the storybooks will be distributed to school children.

The 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3XAwioE), X (http://apo-opa.co/4oBhf94), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/48RAlmL), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/48QWLoe).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/49RgxB0), X (http://apo-opa.co/3XALMJk), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/49SMqJq), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4ptjNYb).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/49Ru6Ap

Summarizing Merck Foundation’s initiatives and impact:

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

  • 2400+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for healthcare providers from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

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

  • 3700+ Media Representatives from more than 35 countries trained by Merck Foundation to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
  • 8 Different Awards launched annually for best Media coverage, Song, Films, and Fashion.
  • Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
  • 9 Children’s Storybooks in four languages – English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili
  • 6 Awareness Animation Films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education and prevention and early detection of Diabetes, Hypertension & Cancer.
  • Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community
  • 1040+ Scholarships provided annually to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls from 18 countries, to help them to complete their studies and empower them to reach their full potential
  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8.5 Million Followers.

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/49XcBPe), X (https://apo-opa.co/449mdmb), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/49T8Fit), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4479a4I), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4pUTLgt) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4pj42Tz).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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A Major Win for Namibia as ReconAfrica Delivers Kavango West 1X Hydrocarbon Discovery

Source: APO – Report:

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The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) strongly welcomes the announcement by Reconnaissance Energy Africa of a successful hydrocarbon encounter at the Kavango West 1X well on Petroleum Exploration Licence (PEL) 73, onshore Namibia. The results represent one of the most meaningful milestones yet for the country’s onshore energy potential and reaffirm Namibia’s position as one of the most attractive frontier markets for exploration in Africa and globally.

On December 3, ReconAfrica reported that the Kavango West 1X well was safely drilled to a depth of 4,200 meters, with results confirming a substantial section containing hydrocarbons. The well encountered a significant zone of oil- and gas-bearing rock, with more than 60 meters of confirmed hydrocarbon pay and additional hydrocarbon shows in deeper intervals. These results not only highlight the geological prospectivity of the Damara Fold Belt but also support ongoing modeling that suggests significant development potential across ReconAfrica’s six-million-acre lease position. The Company has announced plans to production-test the well during the first quarter of 2026, an important next step in confirming deliverability and commerciality.

The AEC applauds the efficiency and technical excellence of the operation, which was completed safely, on schedule and on budget. For Namibia – one of the continent’s fastest-emerging exploration hotspots – this progress reinforces the importance of sustained upstream investment, supportive regulatory frameworks and strong cooperation between operators, government and communities.

A Boost to Onshore Development and Local Jobs

Namibia’s offshore discoveries in recent years have garnered significant global attention, but onshore exploration has long represented an equally important pillar for long-term energy security and economic diversification. ReconAfrica’s latest results bring renewed confidence to the role onshore resources can play in creating employment, stimulating local supply chains and accelerating industrialization.

Every stage of the Kavango West 1X campaign – from seismic acquisition to drilling and upcoming testing – has generated local business opportunities and direct jobs for Namibians. Continued success in PEL 73 would unlock new rounds of contracting, infrastructure development and capacity building, particularly in logistics, field services, community development programs and environmental management.

Commitment to Community Partnerships

The AEC also recognizes ReconAfrica’s ongoing engagement with communities in the Kavango regions, including local partnerships and capacity-building efforts carried out during its exploration activities. The company’s proactive approach to stakeholder dialogue, transparency and collaboration sets a strong precedent for how frontier exploration should be conducted in Africa.

An expanding onshore industry offers the potential for long-term socioeconomic impact in northern Namibia, bringing new opportunities for young people, small businesses and local authorities, while supporting the country’s broader development goals.

A Step Forward for Africa’s Energy Future

With Africa seeking to balance energy security, economic growth and responsible resource development, Namibia continues to shine as a continental success story. The Kavango West 1X results strengthen Africa’s case for sustained exploration, particularly at a time when global capital allocation is increasingly selective and competition for investment is fierce. By moving promptly toward production testing, ReconAfrica is demonstrating its long-term confidence in Namibia’s potential. The AEC encourages continued collaboration with national regulators, environmental authorities, and community stakeholders to ensure timely and responsible progression toward appraisal and, ultimately, development.

“This discovery is a big win for Namibia and a big win for Africa. ReconAfrica’s progress is proof that committed investors, supportive policies and strong community partnerships can unlock real energy opportunities onshore,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC, adding that “These results strengthen confidence in the Damara Fold Belt and reaffirm Namibia as a global exploration hotspot. The Chamber fully supports this next phase of testing and encourages continued investment that creates jobs, builds capacity and drives long-term economic growth for Namibians.”

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Rasha Kelej discute com Primeira-Dama da Nigéria programas conjuntos para desenvolver capacidade de saúde e mídia e apoiar a educação de meninas na 12ª Edição da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck 2025

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha, realizou recentemente a 12ª Edição da sua conferência anual, “Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck”, em parceria com o Governo da Gâmbia. A conferência foi co-presidida por S.E. Sra. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, Primeira Dama da Gâmbia e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck Mais Que uma Mãe e pela Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck e Presidente da Mais que uma Mãe. A Primeira Dama da Nigéria, S. Exa., Senadora OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, juntamente com as Primeiras Damas do Burundi, África Central, Libéria, São Tomé e Príncipe e Senegal participaram como Convidados de Honra e Oradoras Principais.

A Dra. Rasha Kelej disse: “Tive o prazer de manter encontro com a minha querida irmã, Sua Excelência Senadora OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Primeira Dama da República Federal da Nigéria e Embaixadora da ‘Fundação Merck Mais Que uma Mãe‘, na nossa 12ª Edição da Luminária África Ásia 2025. Discutimos os nossos programas conjuntos para desenvolver e aprimorar a capacidade de saúde, fornecendo bolsas de estudo para médicos nigerianos locais. Tenho orgulho de partilhar que até agora fornecemos 82 bolsas de estudo para provedores de cuidados de saúde nigerianos locais em muitos países críticos e carentes, em especialidades como Fertilidade, Embriologia, Cuidados Sexuais e Reprodutivos, Saúde da Mulher, Oncologia, Diabetes, Endocrinologia, Medicina Cardiovascular Preventiva, Cardiologia e Gestão da Obesidade e do Peso, Medicina Aguda, Cuidados Respiratórios, Dermatologia, Reumatologia, Cuidados Críticos, Psiquiatria, Cuidados para Idosos e Tratamento da Dor. Juntos, continuaremos a trabalhar em estreita colaboração para transformar o futuro do atendimento ao paciente na Nigéria.”

S. Exa. Senadora OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, Primeira-Dama da República Federal da Nigéria e Embaixadora da ‘Fundação Merck Mais que uma Mãe’ enfatizou: “Saúdo, profundamente, a nossa parceria significativa com a Fundação Merck e também agradeço todos os seus programas. Estou particularmente entusiasmada com o Programa Educar Linda, por meio do qual forneceremos bolsas de estudo anuais para 71 nossas alunas com melhor desempenho, mas desfavorecidas, no ensino secundário até a formatura. Acredito firmemente na capacitação de meninas por meio da educação, pois ela desempenha um papel crucial na construção de uma escola mais forte e nações mais saudáveis. Este é um dos principais objectivos da estratégia do meu gabinete. Além disso, tenho o prazer de partilhar que a Fundação Merck forneceu 82 bolsas de estudo para os nossos provedores de cuidados de saúde, em muitas especialidades críticas. ”

Assista ao vídeo da Primeira Dama da Nigéria e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck Mais Que uma Mãe durante o 2º Dia da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck 2025 aqui: https://apo-opa.co/48BplbY

Assista ao vídeo da A CEO da Fundação Merck, Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej, durante o encontro com a Excelentíssima Senhora Senadora Oluremi Tinubu, CON, Primeira-Dama da República Federal da Nigéria e Embaixadora da ‘Fundação Merck: Mais Que uma Mãe’: https://apo-opa.co/3KcysI3

No primeiro dia da conferência, foi realizada a Sessão Plenária da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck 2025, com conferências inaugurais das Primeiras-Damas Africanas. Além disso, também foi realizado um painel de discussão ministerial de alto nível com ministros africanos para debater a estratégia da Cimeira Africana de Investigação da Fundação Merck MARS, que visa desenvolver a capacidade de investigação científica e empoderar mulheres em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática), com foco especial em investigação científica.

No segundo dia da conferência, foi realizada uma reunião do comité da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck (MFFLI) entre as Primeiras-Damas Africanas, o Presidente e a CEO da Fundação Merck, onde as Primeiras-Damas Africanas compartilharam o relatório de impacto dos programas da Fundação Merck nos seus respectivos países, bem como discutiram a estratégia da futura parceria.

Assista ao vídeo da reunião do comité da MFFLI: https://apo-opa.co/4oElHUK

Em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da Nigéria, a Fundação Merck concedeu 82 bolsas de estudo para médicos locais na Nigéria em diversas especialidades críticas e carentes de profissionais. Resumo das 82 bolsas de estudo:

  • 14 bolsas de estudo foram concedidas para cursos de Fertilidade, Embriologia e para programas de diploma de um ano e mestrado de dois anos em Saúde Sexual e Reprodutiva, Saúde da Mulher e Medicina Familiar. Essas bolsas são cruciais para a melhoria da saúde da mulher em geral e da saúde reprodutiva em particular.
  • 39 bolsas de estudo foram concedidas para diplomas de um ano e mestrados de dois anos em Diabetes, Endocrinologia, Medicina Cardiovascular Preventiva, Cardiologia e Gestão da Obesidade e do Peso, pelo Programa Nacional de Pontos Azuis em Diabetes da Fundação Merck. Ao concluírem o curso, esses médicos poderão criar clínicas de diabetes ou hipertensão nos seus respectivos centros de saúde ou hospitais, o que lhes permitirá fornecer atendimento essencial, ajudando a prevenir e controlar essas condições nas suas comunidades.
  • 3 bolsas de estudo foram disponibilizadas para Investigação Oncológica, Oncologia Clínica e Tratamento da Dor, como parte do Programa de Acesso ao Cancro da Fundação Merck.
  • Além disso, foram concedidas 26 bolsas de estudo nas áreas de Medicina de Urgência, Cuidados Respiratórios, Dermatologia, Reumatologia, Cuidados Intensivos, Doenças Infecciosas, Psiquiatria e Cuidados com Idosos.

“A Fundação Merck sempre acreditou na importância de fortalecer a capacidade do sistema de saúde e trabalha para isso desde 2012. Até o momento, concedemos mais de 2.400 bolsas de estudo para profissionais de saúde de 52 países em 44 especialidades médicas essenciais e carentes. Continuaremos a oferecer bolsas de estudo para médicos da Nigéria e de outros países”, acrescentou a Dra. Kelej.

A Fundação Merck também anunciou a abertura das candidaturas para os seus 8 importantes prémios em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da Nigéria, voltados para mídia, música, moda, cinema, estudantes e novos talentos em potencial nessas áreas.

Além disso, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama da Nigéria, a Fundação Merck está a lançar seus livros infantis: “Mais do Que uma Mãe”, “Educar Linda”, “Resgate de Jaqueline”, “Você Não É Quem É”, “Viagem ao Futuro”, “Jude sem Açúcar”, “Pressão de Mark” e “Raio de Esperança”. Os livros abordam diversas questões sociais e de saúde, como o combate ao estigma da infertilidade, o apoio à educação de meninas, o combate à violência do género e a conscientização sobre a diabetes e a hipertensão. Milhares de exemplares dos livros serão distribuídos para crianças em idade escolar.

A 12ª Edição da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck foi transmitida em directo nos canais da mídia social media da Fundação Merck e da  Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck.

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3XAwioE), X (http://apo-opa.co/4oBhf94), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/48RAlmL), e YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/48QWLoe).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/49RgxB0), X (http://apo-opa.co/3XALMJk), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/49SMqJq), e YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4ptjNYb).

Link para a transmissão ao vivo no YouTube da Sessão de Abertura do Painel de Alto Nível das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/49Ru6Ap

Resumo das iniciativas e do impacto da Fundação Merck:

Fundação Merck está a transfor o cenário do atendimento ao paciente e fazer história junto com os seus parceiros em África, Ásia e em outros lugares, por meio de:

  • Mais de 2.400 bolsas de estudo concedidas pela Fundação Merck a profissionais de saúde de 52 países em 44 especialidades médicas essenciais e carentes.

A Fundação Merck também está a promover uma mudança cultural e quebrar o silêncio sobre uma ampla gama de questões sociais e de saúde em África e em comunidades carentes por meio de:

  • Mais de 3.700 representantes da mídia de mais de 35 países treinados pela Fundação Merck para conscientizar sobre diferentes questões sociais e de saúde.
  • 8 prémios diferentes lançados anualmente para melhor cobertura da mídia, filme, música e moda.
  • Cerca de 30 músicas que abordam questões de saúde e sociais, compostas por cantores locais de toda a África.
  • 9 livros infantis em quatro línguas: inglês, francês, português e swahíli.
  • 6 filmes de animação de conscientização em cinco línguas: inglês, francês, português, espanhol e swahíli, para conscientizar sobre o combate ao estigma da infertilidade, o apoio à educação de meninas e a prevenção e detecção precoce da diabetes, da hipertensão e do cancro.
  • Programa televisivo pan-africano “Nossa África da Fundação Merck” abordando questões sociais e de saúde em África por meio da comunidade “Moda e Arte com Propósito”.
  • Mais de 1040 bolsas de estudo concedidas a estudantes africanas de alto desempenho, porém carentes, para empoderá-las a concluir os seus estudos.
  • 15 canais de mídia social com mais de 8,5 milhões de seguidores.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Junte-se à conversa nas plataformas das nossas mídias sociais e deixe a sua voz ser ouvida!
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Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4pUTLgt
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4pj42Tz
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Baixar a Aplicação da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/3MaIOJ7

Sobre Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha e visa melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e impulsionar suas vidas por meio da ciência e da tecnologia. Nossos esforços concentram-se principalmente em melhorar o acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carentes, fortalecer a capacidade em saúde e pesquisa científica, empoderar meninas na educação e empoderar pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática), com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck.  Visite www.merck-foundation.com para ler mais. Siga as redes sociais da Fundação Merck: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/49XcBPe), X (https://apo-opa.co/449mdmb), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/49T8Fit), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4479a4I), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4pUTLgt) e Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4pj42Tz).

A Fundação Merck dedica-se a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde de comunidades carentes. Embora colabore com diversos parceiros, incluindo governos, para alcançar os seus objectivos humanitários, a fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Não se envolve nem apoia quaisquer actividades, eleições ou regimes políticos, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e promover o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

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Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets with Sri Lankan Ambassador

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, December 04, 2025

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met on Thursday with HE Ambassador of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka to the State of Qatar Roshan Sithara Khan Azard.

The meeting discussed bilateral cooperation and ways to support and strengthen it, in addition to the humanitarian situation, urgent needs, and recovery plans following Cyclone Ditwah, which struck Sri Lanka.

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Special Envoy of Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, December 04, 2025

HE Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Faisal bin Abdullah Al Hanzab met Thursday with HE United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan Richard Bennett, currently visiting the country.
During the meeting, they discussed joint efforts between the State of Qatar and the United Nations, particularly regarding the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan.

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Qatari-Saudi Coordination Council Executive Committee Holds Eighth Session in Riyadh

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, December 04, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and HH Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah Al Saud, on Thursday co-chaired the eighth meeting of the Executive Committee of the Qatari-Saudi Coordination Council, in Riyadh.

During the meeting, the Council’s General Secretariat working team reviewed the outcomes of the subcommittees and their working groups over the past period.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and HH the Saudi Foreign Minister, also signed the minutes of the Executive Committee meeting of the Qatari-Saudi Coordination Council. 

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Building Africa’s Next Industrial Frontier: The Role of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (By Henok Teferra Shawl)

Source: APO – Report:

By Henok Teferra Shawl, Boeing managing director for Africa (www.Boeing.com).

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) presents a strategic opportunity not only to reduce lifecycle emissions but to retain value in African economies and create skilled jobs.

Today, Africa imports most of its jet fuel, sending billions of dollars off the continent each year and leaving airlines and governments vulnerable to volatility of oil prices and currency shocks. At the same time, Africa’s diverse agricultural and renewable resources provide a strategic advantage for SAF production. Domestic SAF production could help address structural cost disadvantages facing African airlines — higher jet fuel prices, weak supplier competition, low procurement volumes, and higher taxes.

The World Bank (https://apo-opa.co/4pfameJ) projects Sub‑Saharan Africa will see a major working‑age population expansion by 2050 and capturing this demographic dividend depends on creating skilled jobs at scale. SAF value chains – from feedstock cultivation to refining and logistics – can drive employment and economic growth. Turning this potential into production requires coordinated action across three mutually reinforcing areas: feedstock, policy and finance.

Today, SAF carries a price premium due to limited production. Africa’s abundant renewable energy resources and diverse feedstocks could make the continent a key contributor to bringing costs down – an industrial opportunity not to be missed.

From years of research in Africa and globally, including a 2019 study (https://apo-opa.co/4iCdXAY) with WWF South Africa and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, and a 2023 study (https://apo-opa.co/4atc87s) in Ethiopia and South Africa with the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), Boeing has found that data‑driven local feedstock assessments are the essential first step.

Building on this experience, Boeing and RSB are engaging other African countries to assess sustainable feedstock potential and SAF production capacity to support creation of a regional SAF ecosystem and inform national policies. Convening governments, research bodies and airlines will help produce credible baselines for such work.

SAF can cut carbon emissions by up to 80% over the fuel’s lifecycle compared to conventional jet fuel. However, in order to achieve the aviation industry’s decarbonization goal, SAF production worldwide must grow from anticipated 2 million tons in 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/49XflfA) to roughly 500 million tons within 25 years (https://apo-opa.co/3Kf8X8Z), according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

SAF will not scale overnight, hence maximizing the impact of every liter of SAF must be paired with reducing fuel demand. Modern airplanes like the Boeing 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner help airlines cut fuel burn and lower operating costs. In Africa, where about 70% of future deliveries are narrowbody airplanes and intraregional connectivity is a priority, efficient airplanes can expand routes and support trade and tourism while the industry is working to scale SAF supply.

Working together we can turn Africa’s potential into local industries, jobs, connectivity and shared prosperity. Building sovereign SAF markets while accelerating fleet modernization and operational efficiency can power that transformation and unlock lasting economic benefits across the continent.

– on behalf of Boeing.

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Binance Co-Founder Yi He Appointed Co-Chief Executive Officer (CEO) as the Company Nears 300 million Users

Source: APO – Report:

Binance (www.Binance.com), the global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest digital asset exchange by trading volume and users, today announced on stage at Binance Blockchain Week that its co-founder, Yi He, has been appointed Co-CEO. 

“Yi has been an integral part of the executive leadership team since the launch of Binance. Her innovative and user-focused approach has been instrumental in shaping the company’s vision, culture, and bottom-up business strategy,” said Binance CEO Richard Teng. “This appointment is a natural progression and she will continue to guide the organization from strength to strength.” 

“We remain dedicated to being the most trusted and regulated exchange in the world, always putting our users first. Yi plays a critical role in growing our community and driving product innovation as we work to reach one billion users. Together, we are focused on building the Web3 infrastructure and promoting financial freedom, empowering people to participate in a more open and fair financial system,” added Richard. 

“I am honored to build alongside Richard, who brings decades of experience in regulated financial markets and was among the first to regulate crypto in its early days,” said Yi He. “Together, we bring diverse perspectives and are confident in leading the future of the industry during this pivotal time, as we responsibly expand our global presence and drive sustainable innovation with our users always at the center.” 

– on behalf of Binance.

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