Posts

Posted on

G20 Sherpa meeting highlights global development challenges

Source: South Africa News Agency

South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency convened its third Sherpa meeting this week, focusing on critical global challenges, including sustainable development and geopolitical tensions.

Speaking to the media, South Africa’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Mathu Joyini, stressed the urgency of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that the G20 represents 85% of global GDP and has a crucial role in advancing the 2030 agenda.

“We are now five years away from the date set for achieving the SDGs and this is worrisome,” the diplomat stated. 

He said the 20 largest economies in the world, which come from various regions, have a significant role in fostering the development agenda. “The G20 has a responsibility to push hard during these remaining years.”

He told journalists that Wednesday’s Sherpa meeting of the G20 at the Sun City Resort addressed complex geopolitical issues, with participants discussing conflicts ranging from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Gaza and Ukraine. 

However, the approach focused on principles of achieving “just peace” rather than diving into specific conflict details.

Joyini said South Africa outlined four key priorities for its Presidency, which include disaster resilience, debt sustainability, critical minerals, and the Just Energy Transition (JET). 

The Ambassador, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of transforming Africa’s mineral extraction model. “We do not want raw materials to be just taken from Africa. We want African countries to have space for beneficiation and manufacturing.”

The meeting also noted the absence of the United States, with officials expressing openness to continued engagement and emphasising the continuity of the G20 agenda.

Joyini believed that the gathering signalled South Africa’s commitment to advancing Global South priorities and building on the legacies of previous presidencies from Indonesia, India, and Brazil. 

Meanwhile, Joyini explained the continuity of priorities, such as the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty from Brazil. “Our task force on food security that we are creating is focusing on the regional level and at the global level.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Posted on

Climate change takes centre stage at G20 Sherpa meeting 

Source: South Africa News Agency

South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency is placing climate resilience and the Just Energy Transition (JET) at the heart of its global agenda, highlighting the escalating environmental challenges facing developing nations.

In an interview with the media, South Africa’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Mathu Joyini, empha
sised the critical importance of disaster resilience, using recent national experiences as a stark illustration of global climate vulnerabilities. 

“If you look at the flooding that happened in the Eastern Cape a few weeks ago, it exactly shows the relevance of the G20 discussions to our national situation. You can extrapolate it into a country, in the African continent, or the developing south, you do realise that there is no ready capacity or enough resources to deal with disaster resilience,“ he said. 

“I mean, if you look at KwaZulu-Natal, for example, it’s almost like we are expecting a natural disaster, climate-related, weather-related disaster to come.” 

According to recent reports, the death toll in the Mthatha, Eastern Cape floods, now stands at 101, as rescue operations are continuing. 

While specific commitments were not detailed, he said the talks signalled a growing recognition that climate action requires a fundamental reimagining of global economic and environmental policies.

The G20 Sherpa meeting, which kicked off yesterday, underscored a fundamental shift in approach, recognising that climate change is no longer a future threat but a present reality, particularly for developing countries. 

The third Sherpa meeting of the G20 kicked off on Wednesday at the Sun City Resort, focusing on global collaboration, sustainable development, and addressing new international challenges.

Joyini told journalists that South Africa’s Presidency is pushing for a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond traditional environmental discussions, integrating climate action with economic development.

Meanwhile, the Ambassador stated that critical minerals have emerged as a key focal point, with the delegation advocating for a transformative approach to resource extraction. 

“We want to stop the old model of exporting raw materials,” he said. 

“Our goal is to ensure African countries can benefit from the minerals crucial to green energy transitions, particularly for electric vehicles and renewable technologies.”

The attendees also highlighted the JET as a priority, reflecting a nuanced approach that balances environmental protection with economic development.

This strategy, he said, aims to create sustainable pathways for countries in the Global South to address climate challenges while maintaining economic growth.

The meeting also addressed the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing nations, with discussions focusing on how the G20 – representing 85% of global gross domestic product (GDP) – can provide meaningful support to the most vulnerable regions. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Motorists called to exercise caution amid adverse weather conditions

Source: South Africa News Agency

Thursday, June 26, 2025

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged motorists to take extra caution due to the adverse weather conditions in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and the Northern Cape.

Earlier this week, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warned a cold front would make landfall on Wednesday.

“Wet and slippery roads may result in dangerous driving conditions. Motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures. Heavy rainfall with a risk of localised flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape [is expected], especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas on Wednesday into Thursday (25 – 26 June 2025).

“Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape,” SAWS said earlier this week.

Motorists have been advised to follow these road safety precautions when driving in wet and icy conditions: 

  • Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
  • Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
  • Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
  • Keep your lights and windshield clean.
  • Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
  • Don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
  • Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently travelled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
  • Don’t pass snow ploughs and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you’re likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.
  • Don’t assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Le bataillon rwandais RWANBATT-1 décoré de la médaille des Nations Unies pour sa contribution à la paix en République Centrafricaine


Une cérémonie de remise de médailles des Nations Unies au bataillon rwandais RWANBATT-1 de la MINUSCA s’est tenue à Bangui, le 25 juin 2025, en présence du Commandant de la Force de la Mission, le Général de corps d’armée Humphrey Nyone.

Composé de 750 militaires, dont 48 femmes, RWANBATT-1 était structuré en deux compagnies mécanisées, deux compagnies motorisées, une compagnie d’appui et un état-major.

Arrivé en République centrafricaine en juillet 2024, le bataillon avait pour principales missions la protection du Président centrafricain et de sa famille, la sécurisation du palais présidentiel, de l’aéroport international de M’Poko et des résidences des hauts responsables de la MINUSCA, ainsi que la protection des civils, en particulier dans la ville de Bangui.

Le bataillon a également participé à la sécurisation de sites sensibles comme les entrepôts de matériel électoral, et à des opérations de domination dans des zones reculées comme Bambouti, à la frontière avec le Soudan du Sud.

En marge de leur mission principale, les Casques bleus rwandais ont mené des actions de coopération civilo-militaires telles que des dons de fournitures scolaires, le paiement de frais de scolarité, des consultations médicales communautaires, ainsi que la construction de bureaux d’une sous-préfecture et la rénovation d’une école dans le Haut-Mbomou.

Le Commandant de la Force de la MINUSCA a félicité le contingent pour son travail exemplaire, soulignant la discipline, le courage et l’engagement dont ont fait preuve les militaires tout au long de leur mission.

Le Commandant du contingent, le lieutenant-colonel Alphonse Kigenza, a salué « la coopération exemplaire avec les autorités locales et la population centrafricaine », tout en rendant hommage au professionnalisme de ses troupes. Il a également rappelé, avec émotion, la perte d’un soldat décédé des suites d’une maladie.

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

Posted on

Xi Jinping Exchanges Congratulatory Messages with Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo on the 50th Anniversary of the Establishment of China-Mozambique Diplomatic Relations


Download logo

On June 25, 2025, President Xi Jinping exchanged congratulatory messages with Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Mozambique diplomatic relations.

Xi Jinping noted that over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, regardless of changes in the international landscape, China and Mozambique have trusted and supported each other, and the friendship between the two countries remains rock-solid. Xi Jinping expressed his firm belief that bilateral relations will surely usher in a brighter future as long as both sides uphold the original aspiration of establishing diplomatic relations and move forward hand in hand. Xi Jinping said he attaches great importance to the development of China-Mozambique relations and is ready to work with Mr. President Daniel Francisco Chapo to take the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations as a new starting point to carry forward traditional friendship, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation within the frameworks of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and jointly write a new chapter in the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Mozambique.

Daniel Francisco Chapo stated that the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries coincides with the 50th anniversary of Mozambique’s independence, which highlights the traditional friendship and brotherhood between the two nations. He expressed gratitude for China’s unconditional support in Mozambique’s struggle for independence. Mozambique will continue to abide by the one-China principle, support all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification, and back the major initiatives proposed by China. Mozambique is willing to continuously deepen bilateral relations with China on the basis of mutual respect, mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, expand practical cooperation, jointly defend multilateralism, and promote world peace, security and prosperity.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

Posted on

Ghana: The 2024 Consolidated MDAS Annual Budget Performance Report


Download logo

The years prior to 2024 proved to be very difficult globally. In Ghana, we saw the most ignoble deterioration of the economy and broader societal well-being. Inflation galloped, exchange rate depreciated sharply and remained volatile. Interest rates rose and credit became simply unaffordable. Ghana, therefore had no option but to seek support from the IMF through the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme on the heels of an expansive domestic and external debt restructuring which had severe consequences.

In that context, the year 2024, being an election year, was uniquely significant. The Government set for itself macro-economic targets focused on re-anchoring fiscal and debt sustainability. The promise was to course-correct the misalignment in key indicators to support the economy.

Despite the progress made under the IMF programme, the macroeconomic environment remained fragile. The economy remained fragile, with 2024 recording significant fiscal slippages. The Primary deficit worsened, and the year ended with accumulation of huge central government arrears amounting to GH¢67.5 billion representing 5.7 percent of GDP.

The lessons from this challenging national economic experience are there for everyone: fiscal slippages are costly and far-reaching. These experiences validate the prudence in requiring the preparation of the Annual Budget Performance Report (BPR) as part of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), as amended. Beyond meeting the requirements of the PFM Act, the BPR enables us to assess the performance and impact of our policy choices and take corrective measures where necessary. Furthermore, in accordance with the provisions of Section 27 of the PFM Act, stakeholders will receive updates on the actions taken to implement the recommendations of Parliament in respect of the report of the Auditor-General as well as updates on multi-year expenditure undertaken in 2024.

I must state that the key lessons from this BPR will guide our choices in the post-2024 era as we work to reset economy towards the Ghana we want. We must, and we will, build a new culture that promotes and sustains fiscal discipline.

As is always the case, this BPR is the product of cross-sectoral collaborations. The Ministry of Finance is thankful to the Ministries, Departments and Agencies who provided critical inputs and validated information. The efforts of the staff of this Ministry, who have coordinated the preparation of this BPR, are also acknowledged. Your sense of professionalism and commitment to the national cause is indeed endearing. As a Ministry, we will stand ready to provide clarification and respond to any related queries through the established channels, including the Right to Information Platform.

A new era is upon us. We have a great opportunity to rewrite our most recent economic history in a positive light. Let us join forces and work together to build the Ghana we want. It is our promise and duty to do so.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Finance – Republic of Ghana.

Posted on

Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) Minister of Hydraulic Resources, Electricity Joins African Mining Week


Download logo

Teddy Lwamba, Minister of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has confirmed his participation as a speaker at African Mining Week (AMW), taking place from October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town under the theme, From Extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth.

Minister Lwamba will join the panel, Powering Africa’s Mining Operations with Renewables, highlighting the DRC’s efforts to integrate renewable energy and modern infrastructure into its mining value chain.

AMW serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

The event provides a strategic platform for Minister Lwamba to emphasize growing collaboration between the mining and power sectors, aimed at unlocking the DRC’s estimated $24 trillion in untapped mineral wealth. The DRC is currently the world’s leading cobalt producer, accounting for over 70% of global supply, and Africa’s largest copper producer.

In June 2025, the DRC began construction of the 64 MW Katende Hydroelectric Power Plant (http://apo-opa.co/3FY1EQV), set to power key mining areas including Kananga, Bunkonde, Tshimbulu and Mbuji-Mayi. In partnership with the African Development Bank’s Mission 300 energy access initiative, the DRC aims to triple GDP by expanding electricity access for residential, industrial, and mining users. Through the $340 million Moyi Power Metro-Grids project (http://apo-opa.co/4ehPCOS), the government will also deliver reliable electricity to over one million people and businesses in Bumba, Isiro and Gemena.

Further advancing the country’s energy ecosystem, a $634 million government-backed program (http://apo-opa.co/4eFqxhf) – supported by the World Bank and Green Climate Fund – was launched in March 2025 to expand generation capacity and rehabilitate transmission networks across 14 towns.

Under Minister Lwamba’s leadership, the Ministry has also fostered an enabling environment for private investment. Canadian mining firm Ivanhoe Mines (http://apo-opa.co/4erkLQa) has committed $200 million to stabilize the southern DRC grid, while mining firms including CMOC and ERG are investing in dedicated on-site generation and transmission infrastructure.

AMW 2025 presents a timely opportunity for Minister Lwamba to engage with key energy and mining stakeholders and forge new partnerships to scale up infrastructure and drive sectoral growth. His participation also reinforces the DRC’s commitment to sustainable resource development and regional energy cooperation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Posted on

Governo condecora (a Título Póstumo) Bispo D. Paulino Évora

Baixar logotipo

O Governo de Cabo Verde condecorou a título póstumo Sua Excelência Reverendíssima D. Paulino Livramento Évora, Bispo Emérito da Diocese de Santiago de Cabo Verde, com a Medalha de Mérito Altruísta de 1.º Grau, numa cerimónia presidida pelo Primeiro-Ministro, Dr. José Ulisses Correia e Silva. Trata-se de um profundo reconhecimento nacional pelo legado espiritual, moral e social de D. Paulino.

“Esta decisão”, segundo o Primeiro Ministro, “faz justiça e é uma especial honra” condecorar, a título póstumo, D. Paulino Livramento Évora, o Primeiro Bispo cabo-verdiano, nomeado dias antes da independência do país.

“A história de Cabo Verde escreve-se com o legado de um homem com a estrutura ética, moral e patriótica de D. Paulino Évora. Um bom pastor. Um defensor da liberdade, da dignidade humana, da democracia, dos valores da justiça social e dos direitos cívicos”, disse.

“Nos 50 anos da independência de Cabo Verde, prestamos uma homenagem justa e acertada”, acrescentou ainda Ulisses Correia e Silva, dizendo que “a Medalha de Mérito Altruísta de 1.º Grau encaixa-se na perfeição na figura e no perfil de D. Paulino. Altruísta na ação em benefício do outro, da felicidade das pessoas e do bem comum”.

Ainda segundo afirmou, D. Paulino “era um bom combatente pela Igreja, pelos fiéis e pela afirmação da nação cabo-verdiana” e deixou-nos “um legado muito forte”.

“Hoje, damos visibilidade, a título póstumo, a quem sempre foi discreto e serviu com grandeza. Com gratidão e reconhecimento, só temos a dizer: muito obrigado”, concluiu.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.

Posted on

GCIS hosts activation against drugs, illicit trafficking

Source: South Africa News Agency

Thursday, June 26, 2025

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster, will host a community activation on Thursday in the North West province to raise awareness on drugs and illicit trafficking.

This activation is part of Youth Month activities and held under the sub-theme: “Promoting Physical and Mental Health by Reducing Risky Behaviours”. 

The event coincides with the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which is observed annually on 26 June to strengthen global action and cooperation towards a world free from drug abuse. 

The activation will showcase services provided by the JCPS cluster. Key focus areas will include providing evidence-based, voluntary services for all; offering alternatives to punishment; prioritising prevention and leading with compassion. 

“The world drug problem and response continue to present challenges to the health, safety, and well-being of people in South Africa. A drastic change in approach to drug policy recognises that the punitive approach has not been successful in tackling drug-related problems. 

“Instead, emphasis should be placed on evidence-based public health and social justice principles that focus on individuals, families, communities, society as a whole, and must underscore social protection and health care instead of conviction and punishment,” this is according to the National Drug Masterplan of 2019 to 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

New Development Bank appoints Tshepiso Moahloli as regional DG

Source: South Africa News Agency

The New Development Bank (NDB) has appointed Tshepiso Moahloli as the new Africa Regional Centre (ARC) Director-General, following an international competitive recruitment process. 

Moahloli’s appointment took effect on 20 June 2025. 

Moahloli’s role will entail managing the Bank’s African regional operations and leading the African continent, with a focus on project origination, preparation, and implementation supervision. She will also serve as a primary interface between the NDB and key project stakeholders in the region.

The NDB is celebrating 10 years of operations this year. Since its inception in 2015, the Bank has approved 15 infrastructure projects in South Africa, valued at a total of US$7.3 billion. 

These projects focus on addressing crucial infrastructure needs in sectors sincluding water, energy, transport and logistics networks.

“Moahloli is a former National Treasury Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Asset and Liability Management and has amassed more than a decade of experience in the National Treasury providing operational and strategic leadership in Debt Management, Risk Management and Stakeholder Relations.

“Prior to this appointment, Moahloli provided consulting services on various projects related to public debt, climate financing and broad infrastructure development. Moahloli provided strategic expertise at the newly formed Oman Debt Management Office,” National Treasury said.

In partnership with the World Bank, she has also provided consulting support for the NDB in mapping out requisite reforms in infrastructure delivery for the National Treasury.

Moahloli holds a Master of Business Administration in Executive Management from the University of Cape Town, and a Master of Commerce Economic Science (with Distinction) from the University of the Witwatersrand.

National Treasury Director-General, Dr Duncan Pieterse, who is also South Africa’s representative on the NDB Board of Directors, wishes Moahloli well in her new role as she leads the expansion of the NDB Project Portfolio in South Africa and the broader African region for greater development impact. –SAnews.gov.za