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Paving the Way for Small Modular Reactors to tackle Infrastructure Gaps for Energy Transition

Source: APO – Report:

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As Africa accelerates its journey towards a sustainable energy future, experts gathered in Kigali for the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa  discussed the Potential of Small Modular and Micro Reactors in Accelerating Africa’s Energy Transition.

The discussions Moderated by Yohannes G. Hailu, Economic Affairs Officer at UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), underscored an important message: the successful deployment of innovative nuclear technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Micro Reactors (MMRs) hinges not just on technological readiness, but on robust supporting infrastructure.

Some African countries countries are opting for SMRs with an output of less than 300 megawatt capacity. One megawatt would suffice for at least 3000 residential homes. At the same time, 1 megawatt capacity would cost between ($2-$3 million).

As it stands, more than 600 million Africans lack access to electricity.

Experts attending the session of  Potential of Small Modular and Micro Reactors in Accelerating Africa’s Energy Transition examined the Africa’s current infrastructure landscape, pinpointing critical deficiencies. “Across the continent today, we have 15% of generation – that is 40 GW of power – that cannot be delivered simply because of infrastructure issues, curtailment, and grids not being available, sometimes for 800 to 1000 hours per year, or even more.”

The discussion emphasized also on the urgent need to synchronize the rapid advancements in SMR/MMR generation with the long-term, complex development of regional and national transmission and distribution infrastructure. Panelists explored what it takes to create enabling conditions for SMR/MMR rollout, including integrated planning, cross-sector coordination, and strategic investment in local capabilities.

Robert Lisinge,Director of Technology, Innovation, Connectivity and Infrastructure at ECA stressed the importance of a “synchronised planning regime at regional and national level.” He pointed to the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) as a key opportunity, which prioritizes significant investments in solar power, hydroelectric projects, and cross-border transmission lines, identifying 69 high-priority projects by 2030. This, he noted, presents an opportunity to “conceptualise and potentially develop regional nuclear projects that involve perhaps multiple countries, which would accelerate energy integration as well.”

SMRs)offer a transformative opportunity for Africa’s key industries, particularly mining, according to Brian Dlamini, Planning Engineer for the Southern Africa Power Pool (SAPP).

Dlamini highlighted that SMRs could provide clean, reliable energy to creditworthy mining operations, enabling “value addition to products with clean sources in the world market.” This integration, he added, would not only stabilize power grids but also drive the development of the continent’s vast mining sector with sustainable energy.

The consensus from the session was clear: while SMRs and MMRs hold immense promise for accelerating Africa’s energy transition, their successful integration requires a holistic, systemic approach to infrastructure planning and investment. Synchronized efforts at both national and regional levels are paramount to ensure that the continent’s growing generation capacity can effectively reach end-users and power Africa’s next level of industrialization.

– on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

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Prime Minister pays tribute at Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra

Source: APO – Report:

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited the Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, Ghana, and paid tribute to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding President and a revered leader of the African independence movement. He was accompanied by the Vice President of Ghana, H.E. Prof. Naana Jane Opoku- Agyemang. Prime Minister laid a floral wreath and observed a moment of silence in honour of Dr. Nkrumah’s lasting contributions to freedom, unity, and social justice.

2. ​The tribute paid by Prime Minister reflects India’s deep respect for Ghana’s rich history and reaffirms the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

– on behalf of Ministry of External Affairs – Government of India.

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President Mahama confers Ghana’s highest honour on Indian Prime Minister (PM)

Source: APO – Report:

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President John Dramani Mahama has, on behalf of the government and people of Ghana, conferred the State Honour of Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a two-day official visit.

The award presentation took place at a state banquet held in honour of the visiting Prime Minister on Wednesday. The citation accompanying the award praised Prime Minister Modi’s decades of dedicated service, emphasising his exemplary integrity, visionary governance, and steadfast commitment to human progress.

It further recognised his significant efforts in uplifting his nation and extending a hand of partnership to the world, including Ghana. The honour specifically acknowledged his distinguished leadership, his substantial contribution to global development, and his deep commitment to strengthening the vital bilateral relationship between Ghana and India.

– on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

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South Sudan: Peace begins with connecting with the communities we serve

Source: APO – Report:

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Peacekeeping is more than just a job for the Mongolian peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. 

It’s a mission to connect with the communities that they came to serve.

So, it’s no surprise to see the joyful cheering when the peacekeeping patrol is welcomed to a school in the camp for displaced families next to the mission’s field office in Bentiu, Unity State. 

The school has long lacked government funding, which means its 60 teachers provide classes on a volunteer basis, doing their utmost to ensure the children get the best education possible and the chance to reach their full potential in life despite the many challenges they face. 

“We need government support. Most of us are unpaid, and at times, we have to collect fees from the children’s families just to keep the school running,” shares Head Teacher, Michael Tergiek. “The children motivate us so much though with their urgent desire to learn.” 

What used to be a United Nations Protection of Civilians site requiring a constant peacekeeping presence transitioned into a conventional displacement camp under the responsibility of the government several years ago.

But this change has not diminished the deep respect and connections between the local communities and UNMISS peacekeepers, particularly the Mongolian contingent, which has been stationed in the area for more than a decade.

A perfect illustration of this deep connection is the fact that many of the South Sudanese children and even adults living in the camp can speak the Mongolian language.

“There are a lot of kids, teenagers and adults that speak Mongolian as we’ve been here since 2012. At that time, these kids were still small and now they have grown up to be teenagers or young adults. Some of them are absolutely fluent and completely understand what we’re talking about,” shares the Deputy Commander of the Mongolian contingent, Altantulga Jargalan. 

As well as conducting robust patrols by day and night, the Mongolian contingent increased the number of women peacekeepers within their ranks to help foster mutual respect with women and girls and combat the root causes of gender-based violence through the provision of training in schools and local community gathering spots. 

“By being present and showing they care, the Mongolians help us feel safe enough to dedicate ourselves to our education,” shares 17-year-old Hope, who had returned to Bentiu from Uganda to live with her mother a few years ago. 

Once she becomes a public speaker, which is her biggest dream, Hope wants to use her voice to empower others to become as strong and resilient as she is. 

Because she agrees that peace begins with me, with you, with all of us.

– on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

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Desert to Power : la production indépendante d’électricité au Sahel franchit une étape décisive lors de la 5e réunion ministérielle

Les représentants de six pays membres de l’Initiative Desert to Power, ont approuvé, le 30 juin 2025 à Ouagadougou, des documents stratégiques essentiels pour stimuler la production indépendante d’électricité au Sahel à l’occasion de la 5e réunion ministérielle relative à l’initiative menée par la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org). 

 La réunion s’est tenue sous la présidence de Yacouba Zabré Gouba, ministre de l’Énergie, des Mines et des Carrières du Burkina Faso, en présence des ministres de l’Énergie de Djibouti, du Niger et du Tchad, ainsi que de représentants de leurs homologues du Mali et de la Mauritanie. 

Cette rencontre clé a permis de faire le point sur les progrès réalisés dans la mise en œuvre de l’Initiative Desert to Power et d’approuver deux documents stratégiques essentiels : le Protocole commun pour les producteurs indépendants d’électricité (PIE) et la Stratégie de promotion des mini-réseaux verts.  

Le Protocole commun « PIE », élaboré en étroite collaboration avec la taskforce de Desert to Power et la Facilité africaine de soutien juridique (ALSF), établit des principes et des documents standardisés pour faciliter le développement de centrales solaires à grande échelle dans le cadre de partenariats public-privé (PPP). L’objectif de la stratégie des mini-réseaux est de définir un cadre pour accélérer leur mise en œuvre et encourager la participation. 

Les ministres ont salué les progrès significatifs de l’Initiative, notamment la mise en œuvre de plus de quinze projets, dont les premiers sont déjà opérationnels. Ils ont également souligné l’importance des efforts de renforcement des capacités.  

Les échanges se sont poursuivis dans le cadre d’un atelier technique sur la modélisation financière, visant à renforcer les outils d’analyse financière pour la viabilité des sociétés nationales d’électricité du Sahel. La participation active des directeurs généraux et directeurs financiers des compagnies nationales d’électricité à cette rencontre souligne l’ancrage opérationnel de l’Initiative. 

En remerciant la Banque africaine de développement pour le soutien apporté aux pays présents à travers l’Initiative Desert to Power, M. Gouba a souligné que « cette rencontre nous a donné un nouveau départ. Nous devons redoubler d’efforts et travailler en synergie pour atteindre les objectifs fixés. » 

Le vice-président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement chargé de l’Électricité, de l’Énergie, du Climat et de la Croissance verte, Kevin Kariuki, a salué les ministres pour leur engagement. Il a souligné le fait que le Protocole commun validé constituait un levier essentiel pour accélérer le développement des projets solaires menés par les producteurs indépendants, au profit des populations sahéliennes.  

Il a aussi invité les pays à se rallier à la Mission 300, un effort collectif audacieux de la Banque africaine de développement et la Banque mondiale visant à fournir un accès à l’électricité à 300 millions de personnes en Afrique d’ici 2030, pour favoriser l’accès universel à l’électricité dans leurs pays respectifs.   

: « La Mission 300 est plus qu’un objectif, c’est un appel à l’action coordonnée, au leadership politique et à une mise en œuvre ciblée, dont aucun pays ne peut se permettre de se soustraire », a affirmé M. Kariuki.  

En marge des travaux, les participants ont effectué une visite de terrain à la centrale photovoltaïque de Gonsin, au nord-ouest de la capitale burkinabè, Ouagadougou. Cette centrale d’une capacité installée de 42 MWc, réalisée dans le cadre de l’Initiative Desert to Power, dispose d’un système de stockage de dix mégawatts, illustrant parfaitement les résultats concrets et l’impact de l’Initiative au Burkina Faso. 

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias : 
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
media@afdb.org

À propos de l’Initiative Desert to Power :
Lancée en 2019 par la Banque africaine de développement, l’Initiative Desert to Power vise à exploiter le potentiel solaire de onze pays du Sahel (Burkina Faso, Tchad, Djibouti, Érythrée, Éthiopie, Mali, Mauritanie, Niger, Nigéria, Sénégal et Soudan) par des investissements dans la production solaire et l’accès à l’électricité. L’initiative vise à produire dix gigawatts d’énergie solaire afin d’alimenter 250 millions de personnes qui n’ont pas encore accès à l’électricité dans le Sahel. 

Media files

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SAPS eRecruitment portal receives numerous applications

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 3, 2025

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has received more than 185 000 applications through its newly launched e-recruitment system.

The SAPS official website – https://erecruitment.saps.gov.za/ – was officially launched on Monday.

In the first 24 hours, the SAPS received in excess of 67 774 applications from various parts of the country.

“In terms of job applications per province, Gauteng is leading with more than 53 000, followed by KwaZulu-Natal with 30 000, Limpopo follows with 20 000, Eastern Cape with 19 000 and Mpumalanga with 18 000,” the police said in a statement. 

“Western Cape is number six in terms of applications with 17 000, followed by Free State with 14 000, North West 11 000 and lastly Northern Cape with 4000. 

“Female applicants are leading with more than 105 000 so far, followed by male applicants that are standing at just over 80 000,” the police said. 

Applicants have been urged to be patient as the SAPS official website is inundated with applications. 

Where delays are experienced, applicants are encouraged to continue to refresh the careers page. – SAnews.gov.za

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NRF launches call for expressions of interest for Presidential PhD Programme hubs

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Research Foundation (NRF) has made significant progress in implementing the Presidential PhD Programme by launching a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from universities and other research organisations that wish to host the programme’s hubs.

The Presidential PhD Programme is a collaboration between several organisations, including the National Research Foundation (NRF), the Presidency, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), and the National Skills Fund (NSF). 

This programme uses a hub-and-spoke model to facilitate effective communication and resource sharing among all participating institutions and partners.

The call for EOI comes after the Presidential Plenary on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) that took place in December 2023. 

During this event, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the establishment of the Presidential PhD Programme. 

This initiative will involve an initial investment of R1 billion, intended to support PhD training both locally and internationally, and will be linked to large-scale, well-established research projects in both public research facilities and industry.

The initiative has four key components, which include developing world-class human capital in strategic areas and strengthening connections among academia, industry, government, and other stakeholders.

It also involves enhancing graduate employability by providing exposure to transferable skills and innovation ecosystems and facilitating access to leading research environments globally to improve knowledge transfer and build local capacity.

According to the NRF, the hubs will primarily be responsible for the design and implementation of collaborative PhD training programmes and activities. 

The key founding principles of the hubs are synergy, inclusivity, multi-disciplinary, economies of scale, sharing of resources, and pursuing the principle that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. 

“The hubs will not only provide intellectual leadership but also serve as coordinators and training centres to ensure uptake of the opportunities within the Presidential PhD Programme’s initiatives, in collaboration with various stakeholders, including local and international research-performing institutions, universities, industry, science councils, and government departments.” 

In addition, the hubs will be responsible for identifying strategic stakeholders and potential partners, while also assessing their needs and contributions. 

They will lead the design and implementation of mentorship networks, monitor the progress of doctoral students towards completion, and coordinate the various nodes with support from the NRF.

“We have taken a giant leap towards realising the ambitious goals of the Presidential PhD Programme,” said NRF CEO, Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo. 

“The hubs will be instrumental in our national drive to develop a new generation of highly skilled researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.” 

The programme is grounded in the goals of the National Development Plan (NDP) and the STI Decadal Plan, which call for the graduation of 5 000 PhDs per annum and having 75% of the universities’ academic and research staff qualified with PhDs by 2030.

The training programme will build critical skills aimed at social transformation, with the initial areas of focus being digital innovation, advanced biotechnology, the energy-food-health sustainability nexus, and mining transformation.

The NRF will coordinate and mobilise support to attain the outcomes envisaged for graduate skilling in entrepreneurship, innovation, academia, policy, and advocacy.

Institutions eligible to host lead hubs are NRF-recognised research institutions such as South African public universities and public research entities such as science councils, national research facilities, and institutes. 

These institutions must possess strong research capabilities in a specific theme that aligns with the Presidential PhD Programme and have a proven track record in transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary coordination.

Meanwhile, the NRF said institutions located on the continent and around the globe can participate in the hubs programme as nodes or as partners. – SAnews.gov.za

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Eskom strengthens system against fraudulent tokens generation

Source: Government of South Africa

State power utility Eskom says it has taken several steps to strengthen its systems against potential threats related to the generation of fraudulent prepaid tokens.

In December 2024, the power utility disclosed, as part of its full-year 2024 financial results, a forensic report detailing the breach of its Online Vending System (OVS).

“The system was exploited to generate and distribute fraudulent prepaid electricity tokens, revealing critical vulnerabilities in both the physical and cybersecurity components of the utility’s prepaid electricity infrastructure.

“In response, Eskom undertook a comprehensive review and intervention strategy aimed at mitigating these vulnerabilities and restoring system integrity,” Eskom said in a statement.

Eskom Chief Technology and Information Officer, Len De Villiers, said the power utility has “successfully strengthened the protection of its current systems against potential threats”.

“All system enhancements are managed through a robust Change Management process that spans all divisions, ensuring consistent oversight and control. These measures are part of Eskom’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding operations and addressing identified vulnerabilities,” De Villiers said.

The latest key actions implemented include:

  • Internal controls to deal with electricity theft have been implemented.
  • Measures to safeguard the system by reinforcing physical infrastructure and limiting both physical and digital access.
  • Enhanced monitoring capabilities to ensure transparency and timely reporting.
  • On-going collaboration with law enforcement agencies to support investigations and ensure accountability. As part of this process, internal employees who have been implicated have been placed on precautionary suspension pending further review.
  • Augmented in-house capabilities, supported by an external Information Technology (IT) firm tasked to better manage risks and safeguard operations.
  • Coordinated system upgrades through a structured change management process.
  • Regular reporting to the Eskom Board, which has maintained oversight throughout the remediation process.
  • Accelerated acquisition of a new. secure vending system, designed to replace the current OVS and prevent future incidents.

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said: “We are fully aware of the challenges that have emerged within the OVS environment, and we have taken clear steps to address them. 

“Our focus is on restoring trust, strengthening our systems, and ensuring that our customers can rely on a secure and efficient service. This is not just a technical fix, it is part of a broader commitment to transparency, operational excellence and accountability.”

Eskom, in conjunction with law enforcement, is investigating with the findings to be disclosed once complete. – SAnews.gov.za

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SAPS committed to combating GBVF

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Police Service (SAPS) on Wednesday said it remains steadfast in its commitment to combat and prevent gender-based violence and femicide (GVBF) through its intensified nationwide operations and dedicated resources across the country.

According to SAPS, nationwide operations and police actions conducted from 23 – 29 June resulted in the arrest of 145 suspects for rape. Gauteng recorded the most arrests (35).

In addition, police arrested 77 wanted rape suspects, as well as 14 individuals tracked down for sexual offences in various provinces.

SAPS continues to strengthen its response to combating GVBF through targeted interventions and collaboration with communities, including various stakeholders.

“SAPS specialised units, such as the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Units (FCS), across the country continue to play a crucial role in investigating and prosecuting GBVF cases, as well as providing specialised support to survivors,” SAPS said.

Key arrests this past week included 40-year-old Lesiba Ledwaba for the gruesome murder of his 87-year old mother, Raisibe Ledwaba. He has already appeared in the Seshego Magistrates Court on charges of murder. 

In a separate case, on 1 July 2025, police in Ladybrand arrested a 27-year-old man for the alleged murder of his 51-year-old mother after she reprimanded him from making noise when under influence of alcohol. He is expected to appear before the Ladybrand Magistrates Court on 3 July.

“Recently, FCS unit members successfully secured lengthy jail sentences for the perpetrators of gender-based violence and femicide, ensuring that they are removed from society for the rest of their lives,” the police said.

Notable convictions secured this week alone include:

  • On 1 July, the Greytown Regional Court sentenced a 29-year-old accused to life imprisonment for raping his eight-year-old biological daughter in March 2025.
  • On 30 June, the  Mahwelereng Regional Court sentenced a 22 –year-old accused to life imprisonment for the rape of a 13-year-old boy on 4 November 2023.
  • On 30 June 2025, the Molopo Regional Court sentenced serial rapist Bongani Ntoro (36) to life term sentence and an additional 25 years’ imprisonment for the rape of four women and a 12-year-old minor between 2007 and 2010 in Magogoe, Tloung and Seweding villages.

“SAPS is committed to fulfilling its mandate to combat, prevent, and investigate GBVF incidents and is continuously working to improve its response to these crimes in the country. Citizens are urged to report GVBF incidents to the nearest police or through MySAPS app,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Publication of SARS eFiling profile hijacking draft report postponed

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 3, 2025

The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) has postponed the publication of the draft report on its investigation into alleged SARS eFiling profile hijacking.

The publication was initially scheduled for release for public comment on 7 July 2025.

“This decision follows a formal request from the Commissioner [Edward Kieswetter] of the South African Revenue Service [SARS] for an extension to allow SARS additional time to respond constructively to the preliminary findings and recommendations contained in the draft report. SARS has requested extension until 31 August 2025. 

“The Tax Ombud has considered this request and, in the interest of procedural fairness, transparency, and ensuring that all perspectives are adequately considered, the Tax Ombud granted the extension,” an OTO statement read.

The entity explained that the revised timeline will “enable SARS to engage meaningfully with the contents of the report and provide a comprehensive response, thereby contributing to a more balanced and robust outcome”.

“The OTO assures all taxpayers and stakeholders that the investigation and the resulting report remain a top priority. The OTO continues to take this matter seriously and reaffirms its mandate to address systemic issues and promote fairness in the tax administration system.

“The final draft report will be released for public comment shortly after 31 August 2025,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za