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Call for urgent reform of international governance structures

Source: Government of South Africa

By Gabi Khumalo

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for enhanced global cooperation and urgent reform of international governance structures amid the “dramatic reshaping of global dynamics-politically, economically, technologically, and environmentally”.

Speaking during the opening of the 17th BRICS Summit, currently underway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, President Ramaphosa underscored the critical need for multilateral collaboration to address escalating global tensions and institutional inefficiencies.

“With this change comes both opportunity and uncertainty. As conflicts persist, as new threats emerge and as old institutions falter, the pursuit of global peace and security has never been more urgent or more complex,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa participated in the first session of the BRICS Summit, where he delivered an intervention under the theme: “Peace & Security, Reform of Global Governance”.

The President underscored the need to reform the United Nations Security Council to become more democratic, regionally representative, and more accountable.

He noted that the United Nations, in particular the Security Council which is the preeminent instrument for the maintenance of international peace and security, has too often failed to meet the challenges of today.

“In responding to these challenges – ranging from humanitarian crises to open acts of aggression – the Security Council has become too rigid, too narrow and too disconnected from today’s multipolar realities.

“Reform is a necessity. The Security Council must be made more democratic, more regionally representative and more accountable,” the President said.

Strengthening regional peace mechanisms

To further enable sustainable peace, the President emphasised the need for strong regional peace mechanisms. 

“We must give them the resources and authority they need to lead efforts in dialogue, mediation and de-escalation. Localised responses, grounded in cultural and geopolitical understanding, are the frontline of peacebuilding.

“The linkages between peace, security and development require a more comprehensive approach to conflict prevention and peacebuilding; an approach that addresses the underlying causes of conflict,” he said.

Highlighting the role of BRICS in this evolving landscape, President Ramaphosa said BRICS is increasingly shaping global debates on development, multipolar governance and security matters.

With a broad geographical footprint and growing influence, BRICS is uniquely positioned to advocate for reform in global governance structures.

He called on BRICS to strengthen its voice in calling for a global framework that is inclusive, representative and anchored in the principles of sovereignty, equality and peaceful coexistence.

“BRICS must continue to strengthen its cooperation on key security issues, including counterterrorism, cyber security and transnational crime,” the President said.

Global digital governance framework 

President Ramaphosa commended BRICS’ focus on a global digital governance framework that is inclusive, transparent and rooted in the principles of the United Nations.

He reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to the full implementation of the BRICS Counter Terrorism Strategy.

The country remains steadfast in its support for the United Nations’ central role in global counter terrorism efforts.

Call for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions

President Ramaphosa raised South Africa’s concerns at the deteriorating peace and security situation in the Middle East.

The President condemned the recent attacks by Israel and the United States on the Islamic Republic of Iran, warning that the attacks raise serious concerns of international law, including the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the protection of civilians.

He said South Africa understands the power of peaceful resolution through dialogue, given the country’s own experience. 

“We must continue to advocate for the urgent intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure sustainable and lasting peace. We remain deeply concerned by the heavy human toll of conflicts in Russia and Ukraine, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Gaza, among others. 

“We must find just and lasting solutions to these devasting conflicts. Achieving and maintaining peace and security requires the collective will of the community of nations,” President Ramaphosa said.

Summit deliberations

During the BRICS Summit session, Heads of State and Government are expected to deliberate on issues pertaining to global governance reform, peace and security, the ongoing humanitarian impact of Israeli military action in Gaza and in conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, Iran, and advocating for the sustainable resolution of conflicts through diplomacy, inclusive dialogue and a commitment to the United Nations Charter.

The summit will also look into synergies between BRICS, COP30 and G20 outcomes, including in global governance of artificial intelligence and prioritising climate finance that is just, accessible and transformational. – SAnews.gov.za

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Asmara Technical School Graduates 143 Students

Source: APO


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Asmara Technical School yesterday graduated 143 students, including 61 female students, who completed two years of theoretical and practical training in auto mechanics, construction, woodwork, electronics, and electricity.

Mr. Semere Worede, Director of the school, stated that Asmara Technical School is graduating students for the 64th time and that, in the 70 years since its establishment, it has graduated over 10,000 students.

Mr. Semere noted that the school, with substantial investment from the Government is equipped with modern teaching facilities and is playing a significant role in producing youth equipped with the necessary professional skills to contribute to the nation-building process.

Mr. Tesfay Seium, Director General of Technical and Vocational Education at the Ministry of Education, called on the graduates to apply the training they received toward the implementation of national development programs.

A representative of the graduates expressed their commitment to making meaningful contributions in their future workplaces by applying the knowledge and skills acquired during their training.

At the event, awards were presented to outstanding students, and certificates of recognition were given to teachers and members of the parents’ committee.

Since its establishment, Asmara Technical School has graduated 10,300 students.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Intervention by President Cyril Ramaphosa on peace, pecurity and global governance, 17th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency, President Lula da Silva,
Fellow BRICS Leaders,
Honourable Ministers,
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

I would like to thank you, President Lula, for your warm welcome and for hosting us, as Chair of the 17th BRICS Summit, in Rio de Janeiro.

I extend my warmest welcome to our dear friends, the Republic of Indonesia, as the newest member of the BRICS formation.

We are witnessing a dramatic reshaping of global dynamics – politically, economically, technologically and environmentally.

With this change comes both opportunity and uncertainty. 

As conflicts persist, as new threats emerge and as old institutions falter, the pursuit of global peace and security has never been more urgent or more complex.

The United Nations, in particular the Security Council, is the preeminent instrument for the maintenance of international peace and security.

Yet, it has too often failed to meet the challenges of today.

In responding to these challenges – ranging from humanitarian crises to open acts of aggression – the Security Council has become too rigid, too narrow and too disconnected from today’s multipolar realities.

Reform is a necessity. The Security Council must be made more democratic, more regionally representative and more accountable. 

To further enable sustainable peace, we must strengthen and invest in regional peace mechanisms. We must give them the resources and authority they need to lead efforts in dialogue, mediation and de-escalation.

Localised responses, grounded in cultural and geopolitical understanding, are the frontline of peacebuilding.

The linkages between peace, security and development require a more comprehensive approach to conflict prevention and peacebuilding; an approach that addresses the underlying causes of conflict.

BRICS has vital role in this evolving landscape.

BRICS is increasingly shaping global debates on development, multipolar governance and security matters.

With our broad geographical footprint and growing influence, BRICS is uniquely positioned to advocate for reform in global governance structures. 

BRICS must strengthen its voice in calling for a global framework that is inclusive, representative and anchored in the principles of sovereignty, equality and peaceful coexistence.

BRICS must continue to strengthen its cooperation on key security issues, including counterterrorism, cyber security and transnational crime.

We welcome the focus by BRICS on a global digital governance framework that is inclusive, transparent and rooted in the principles of the United Nations.

We need to share best practices, strengthen technical cooperation and invest in the protection of critical digital infrastructure. 

South Africa is committed to the full implementation of the BRICS Counter Terrorism Strategy, with a focus on deradicalisation, disrupting terrorist financing and countering the misuse of digital platforms by extremist groups.

We remain steadfast in our support for the United Nations’ central role in global counter terrorism efforts.

As an African nation, we are acutely aware of the ways in which state and non-state actors exploit global divisions and vulnerabilities to destabilise those who do not share their worldview. 

This is why our strategic partnership is critical in our pursuit for a safer, more just and more equitable world.

South Africa remains gravely concerned at the deteriorating peace and security situation in the Middle East. 

The recent attacks by Israel and the United States on the Islamic Republic of Iran raise serious concerns of international law, including the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the protection of civilians.

Given our own experience, South Africa understands the power of peaceful resolution through dialogue. 

We must continue to advocate for the urgent intensification of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure sustainable and lasting peace.

We remain deeply concerned by the heavy human toll of conflicts in Russia and Ukraine, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan and Gaza, among others. 

We must find just and lasting solutions to these devasting conflicts.

Achieving and maintaining peace and security requires the collective will of the community of nations.

Through dialogue, through respect for the rule of law, through the advancement of human rights, through cooperation and solidarity, we can and must achieve peace for the collective good.

I thank you.

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”Early Testing Saves Lives,” First Lady stresses at Free Health Screening for vulnerable group

Source: APO


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First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, on Friday, addressed beneficiaries at a comprehensive free public health screening event, emphasising the vital importance of early testing and proactive health management, especially for vulnerable populations within the community.

The event, a collaboration between the Office of the First Lady and the Ghana AIDS Commission, provided essential health services to various community members, including hairdressers, tailors, head-porters (kayayee), and market women.

Addressing the gathering, Mrs. Mahama underscored the purpose of the outreach. “We are here for a very important reason. For the health of our people, especially young people, women, and vulnerable groups in our communities,” she stated. “We aim to raise awareness, offer free check-ups, provide medical advice and counselling, and help more people take care of their health.”

The First Lady said many people may be living with serious health conditions without realising it, making such screening exercises essential.

“Sometimes, people are living with these conditions and do not even know it. That is why today’s health screening is very important,” she explained. “It provides an opportunity to get tested free of charge, know about their health, and take the necessary steps to maintain their health.”

She stressed the life-saving potential of early detection. “Early testing saves lives. Knowing your health status early enables you to start treatment early and prevent serious complications. Testing early can also help us to protect our loved ones.”

“For example, when people living with HIV get to know their status early, they can receive the right care and support, which will make them live long and healthy lives. But this can only happen if you get tested.”

The free health services provided at the event included HIV and syphilis screening, BMI and nutrition counselling, blood pressure checks and assessments for other medical conditions, and breast cancer screening.

Beneficiaries received awareness training on HIV/AIDS preventive measures and the importance of early antenatal care to prevent mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy.

Directing her message towards the younger generation present, the First Lady called for greater health consciousness. “I want to address the young people here directly. You are the future of this country. Your energy, your dreams and your well-being matter,” she said.
“However, many young people today are falling ill, sometimes due to a lack of access to the right information, services, or support they need. That must change. And it starts with talking openly to people who can help you, and by having a medical check at least once a year.”

She encouraged attendees to take full advantage of the services offered free of charge. “Today, you can check your HIV status, your blood pressure and sugar levels, and even be screened for breast cancer, right here at this event, all for free… I therefore encourage you all to take advantage of these services. Feel free to ask any questions that come to mind. We are here for you.”

Mrs. Mahama also highlighted broader government efforts aimed at improving access to and outcomes in healthcare. She mentioned the recently launched Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as MahamaCares.

“When this fund is fully operational, it will bring relief to many people suffering from non-communicable diseases,” she noted, adding that it will help diagnose and treat conditions like heart illnesses, kidney disease, and various cancers.

She also referenced the upcoming Free Primary Healthcare Programme, which she said will “enhance awareness of the health status of our citizens and contribute to disease prevention.”

“Together, we can create a Ghana where every person knows their health status. Where every pregnant woman gets the care she needs, and where every child is born healthy and free from infection,” she stated

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

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Victims urged not to withdraw gender-based violence cases

Source: Government of South Africa

The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature has urged victims of crime, particularly those affected by gender-based violence (GBV), to refrain from withdrawing criminal cases against perpetrators.

In a statement on Sunday, the Portfolio Committee said this urgent call follows growing concern over a troubling trend that threatens to undermine efforts to combat GBV and ensure justice for victims.

The committee raised this issue during an oversight visit to the Fochville Police Station on Friday, followed by a stakeholder engagement session at Greenspark Community Hall.

“During these engagements, the committee was alarmed by a report from the Station Commander indicating that 64 GBV cases had been withdrawn by victims, allowing alleged perpetrators to evade justice and remain a threat within their communities,” the portfolio committee said. 

According to police reports, these withdrawals are often driven by financial inducements from perpetrators and pressure from families, who encourage victims to “resolve matters privately”. 

“The committee strongly condemns this practice, warning that it not only places victims at further risk but also undermines the integrity of the criminal justice system. The withdrawal of serious cases such as GBV enables repeat offenses including rape, assault, and even murder.

“The committee urges communities to stand with victims and allow the law to take its course,” the portfolio committee said. 

Furthermore, the committee emphasised that this pattern is not isolated to Fochville but is emerging as a province-wide concern, threatening progress in reducing crime and securing justice for survivors.

“The committee calls on all stakeholders including traditional leaders, community-based organisations, and faith-based institutions to actively educate communities on the importance of reporting GBV and pursuing justice. Victims must be protected and supported, not silenced or coerced,” the statement read. 

As part of its ongoing Focused Intervention Study on SAPS compliance with the Domestic Violence Act, the Committee will continue to engage stakeholders and monitor police stations across Gauteng to ensure accountability and improved service delivery in the fight against GBV. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mourning period declared to honour the late former Deputy President Mabuza

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, July 6, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza will be honoured with a State Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 12 July 2025. 

Deputy President Mabuza, 64, who served as Deputy President between 2018 and 2023 passed away on Thursday following a short illness.

In a statement on Sunday, the Presidency said in terms of the State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy Manual of The Presidency, the State Funeral Category 2 is reserved for the Deputy President of the Republic, an Acting President and Former Deputy Presidents.

The State Funeral Category 2 is conducted with prescribed military ceremonial honours.

“The funeral of Former Deputy President Mabuza will take place in Mpumalanga. Closer details will be announced in the coming days. 

“While preparations unfold, President Ramaphosa has declared that days of national mourning be observed from tomorrow, Monday, 07 July 2025, until the evening of Saturday, 12 July.

“During this period, the National Flag must be flown at half mast at all flag stations around the country,” the Presidency said. 

President Ramaphosa reiterated his deep condolences to the Mabuza family.

“The President wishes the family strength as they and the nation reflect on the life of a family member, activist, educator, intellectual and leader in government who contributed greatly to the attainment of freedom and development in our society,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fin de la manœuvre « Bouclier » à Lokossa : Les Forces de Défense et de Sécurité renforcées contre la menace terroriste


La manœuvre militaire « Bouclier », conduite par la Garde Nationale,  et qui a eu pour théâtres d’opération trois départements du sud Bénin, a pris fin le vendredi 04 juillet 2025 à Lokossa. Pendant près d’une semaine, les troupes du Colonel Faïzou GOMINA ont été mises en condition dans un contexte simulé de menace terroriste, en vue de leur déploiement prochain dans le cadre de l’opération MIRADOR. 

L’exercice a permis d’évaluer le niveau global d’entraînement des unités, la capacité des chefs à commander en situation de crise, ainsi que le leadership des Officiers de compagnie. À travers des opérations sur terre, en mer et dans les airs, les soldats ont fait preuve de  professionnalisme, rigueur et engagement, notamment lors de la libération d’otages dans un scénario fictif de prise d’assaut. 

Le Ministre délégué à la Défense nationale, Monsieur Alain Fortunet NOUATIN, et le Chef d’État-Major Général des Forces Armées Béninoises, le Général de Division Fructueux GBAGUIDI, ont salué la qualité de la manœuvre. Ce dernier a exprimé sa satisfaction, soulignant que le niveau de préparation affiché renforce la capacité de l’armée à répondre aux défis sécuritaires croissants. 

Outre l’aspect militaire, l’opération a comporté une dimension sociale. Des centaines de civils ont bénéficié de soins médicaux gratuits prodigués par des médecins militaires, renforçant les liens entre armée et population. Pour le Ministre NOUATIN, cette approche humanitaire contribue à « briser le mythe de l’uniforme » et à rapprocher les forces de défense et de sécurité des citoyens. 

À présent, les éléments de la Garde Nationale se tiennent prêts à être déployés sur le terrain réel de l’Opération MIRADOR. Forts de cette préparation tactique et morale et des autres acquis, ils entendent jouer pleinement leur rôle dans la lutte contre le terrorisme et la préservation de l’intégrité du territoire béninois.

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

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President Ramaphosa declares mourning period to honour the late former Deputy President David Mabuza

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza will be honoured with a State Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 12 July 2025.

Deputy President Mabuza, 64, passed away on Thursday, 3 July 2025, following a short illness.

In terms of the State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy Manual of The Presidency, the State Funeral Category 2 is reserved for the Deputy President of the Republic, an Acting President and Former Deputy Presidents.

The State Funeral Category 2 is conducted with prescribed military ceremonial honours.

The funeral of Former Deputy President Mabuza will take place in Mpumalanga. Closer details will be announced in the coming days.

While preparations unfold, President Ramaphosa has declared that Days of National Mourning be observed from tomorrow, Monday, 07 July 2025, until the evening of Saturday, 12 July.

During this period, the National Flag must be flown at half mast at all flag stations around the country.

President Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Mabuza family.

The President wishes the family strength as they and the nation reflect on the life of a family member, activist, educator, intellectual and leader in government who contributed greatly to the attainment of freedom and development in our society.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Réunion du Comité Régional de Pilotage du Projet SWEDD+ : Des résolutions fortes pour plus d’autonomisation des femmes et du dividende démographique


Du 02 au 04 juillet 2025, le Bénin a abrité à Cotonou, la 8ème Session du Comité Régional de Pilotage (CRP) du Projet SWEDD+ (Autonomisation des femmes et dividende démographique au Sahel élargi), réunissant les Ministres en charge du projet, les Experts nationaux, ainsi que les partenaires techniques et financiers. Coordonné par le Ministère béninois des Affaires Sociales et de la Microfinance, cet évènement stratégique marque une étape décisive dans le repositionnement régional du projet SWEDD élargi à de nouveaux pays. 

La session ministérielle s’est ouverte officiellement le vendredi 04 juillet 2025, en présence de plusieurs hautes personnalités, des Préfets de départements, des leaders religieux et traditionnels, des acteurs de la société civile, des élus municipaux et locaux et autres invités. 

La Ministre des Affaires Sociales et de la Microfinance du Bénin, Madame Véronique TOGNIFODÉ, également Vice-Présidente du Comité, a salué la mobilisation exceptionnelle autour du projet et la qualité des travaux des Experts réunis en amont pendant deux jours à Cotonou. Elle a adressé un message de gratitude au Professeur Melchior AÏSSI, Directeur Général de l’OOAS, cheville ouvrière de cette réunion de Cotonou. Mme TOGNIFODE a également rappelé les enjeux des réformes à venir. 

Les partenaires institutionnels tels que la Banque Mondiale, l’UNFPA, la Communauté Économique des États de l’Afrique Centrale (CEEAC) et l’Organisation Ouest-Africaine de la Santé (OOAS) ont exprimé leur satisfaction face aux progrès enregistrés et réaffirmé leur accompagnement. De son côté, le Ministre de la Santé du Burkina-Faso, président sortant du Comité Régional de Pilotage, a salué les efforts collectifs accomplis et félicité le Bénin pour la qualité de l’organisation. 

Dans une allocution empreinte d’espoir et de détermination, Madame Mariam CHABI TALATA, Vice-Présidente de la République du Bénin, a ouvert officiellement les travaux et a réaffirmé l’engagement ferme du Gouvernement béninois à œuvrer pour l’autonomisation des femmes et des filles, en misant sur l’investissement social, la réforme éducative, la santé reproductive et la protection juridique. Elle a mis en lumière les efforts structurels du Bénin en matière de planification budgétaire sensible au genre et de gouvernance inclusive, alignés avec la vision portée par SWEDD+. 

Le Bénin prend la tête du Comité Régional de Pilotage 

Au cours de la réunion ministérielle, plusieurs résolutions fortes ont été adoptées pour renforcer la coordination régionale, pérenniser les acquis du SWEDD et intégrer les nouveaux pays membres dans une dynamique d’impact collectif. À l’unanimité, le Bénin a été désigné pour assurer la Présidence du Comité Régional de Pilotage du Projet SWEDD+, pour un mandat d’un an. Cette responsabilité sera portée par Madame Véronique TOGNIFODÉ, dont le leadership est salué pour sa constance, son pragmatisme et sa capacité de mobilisation. Le Sénégal assure la Vice-Présidence du Comité. 

Dans son discours de clôture, la nouvelle Présidente du CRP, Madame Véronique TOGNIFODÉ a remercié ses pairs Ministres et les Institutions partenaires pour la confiance placée en elle et en son pays. Elle a promis de conduire ce mandat avec la rigueur et l’exemplarité qui caractérisent la gouvernance béninoise, conformément à la vision du Président de la République, Monsieur Patrice TALON. Elle a également mis en avant les avancées majeures du Bénin en matière de droits des femmes et des filles, d’accès à la santé, à l’éducation et à la protection sociale, justifiant pleinement la légitimité du Bénin à porter cette présidence, bien que n’étant pas bénéficiaire de SWEDD+. 

Pour clôturer cette semaine de travaux intenses, un Dîner de Gala a été offert dans la soirée du vendredi 04 juillet 2025 au Dôme du Sofitel Hôtel de Cotonou, à l’initiative du Ministère des Affaires Sociales et de la Microfinance. 

Dans une ambiance conviviale, ponctuée de prestations artistiques et d’animations culturelles, les hôtes du Bénin ont été chaleureusement salués et remerciés. Cette soirée a permis de renforcer les liens entre les pays membres, de valoriser l’hospitalité béninoise et de célébrer l’unité régionale autour du projet SWEDD+.

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

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Le Bénin se dote d’une loi historique pour son développement à long terme : Cap sur 2060


Le vendredi 04 juillet 2025 marque une date importante pour le Bénin. À l’unanimité, les députés de la 9ème législature ont adopté, en plénière, la loi portant Vision Nationale de Développement à l’horizon 2060, présentée par le Ministre d’État, Ministre du Développement et de la Coordination de l’Action Gouvernementale, Monsieur Abdoulaye BIO TCHANÉ. 

Fruit de plus d’un an de réflexions prospectives, d’études rigoureuses et de concertations nationales, ce texte vient inscrire le Bénin dans une logique de gouvernance stratégique fondée sur la planification à long terme. Il s’agit d’un véritable cadre d’orientation et de référence pour toutes les politiques publiques à venir, quels que soient les gouvernements qui se succéderont. 

Dans sa présentation devant la représentation nationale, le ministre d’État a insisté sur l’ambition de cette vision : “Il s’agit d’éviter à notre pays les tâtonnements et la navigation à vue. Désormais, le développement du Bénin s’inscrit dans une trajectoire claire, construite autour de nos aspirations profondes et des défis du siècle à venir”. 

La Vision Bénin 2060 propose en effet un ensemble cohérent d’objectifs à long terme dans les domaines économique, social, environnemental, institutionnel et culturel. Elle permettra d’anticiper les transformations majeures à l’œuvre, de renforcer la cohésion nationale, et de bâtir un avenir durable pour les générations futures. 

L’adoption de cette loi vient couronner un processus exemplaire de prospective nationale engagé par le gouvernement du président Patrice TALON. C’est également un acte fort de souveraineté, témoignant de la volonté du Bénin de prendre en main son destin, au-delà des cycles politiques. 

La Vision 2060 servira de socle à l’élaboration des plans de développement quinquennaux et sectoriels, garantissant ainsi la continuité de l’action publique dans le respect des aspirations nationales. 

Avec cette avancée majeure, le Bénin franchit un nouveau cap dans la construction d’un État moderne, résilient et visionnaire.

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