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African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Somali National Armed Forces (SNA) troops recapture strategic villages in Lower Shabelle


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Ugandan troops serving with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) have recaptured strategic villages of Sabiid and Anole from Al Shabaab.

This win came during a three-day joint operation code-named ‘Operation Silent Storm’, aimed at liberating areas under Al-Shabaab control in the Lower Shabelle region.

Several Al-Shabaab fighters were neutralised during a prolonged siege of their hideouts in various parts of the villages. The forces also seized a substantial amount of ammunition from fleeing militants, clearing Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) planted in communities and supply routes. 

“I commend the brave efforts of our gallant AUSSOM Ugandan troops and the Somali National Army in degrading Al-Shabaab. AUSSOM is fully committed to implementing the Somali Transition Plan, which will culminate in the transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali Security Forces,” said AUSSOM Force Commander, Lieutenant General Sam Kavuma, following the successful operation.

Sector One Commander Brigadier General Joseph Ssemwanga emphasised that joint operations will continue in Lower Shabelle until Al-Shabaab threats are effectively addressed.

“Sabiid-Anole has become a strategic location since March, where terrorists plan deadly attacks, conceal ammunition, including vehicles for Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), and establish illegal checkpoints to extort locals,” said Brig. Gen. Ssemwanga.

Major General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, Commander of the Somali National Army’s Land Forces, also confirmed that ‘Operation Silent Storm’ successfully dismantled Al-Shabaab’s presence in the two villages.

AUSSOM and SNA Forces are currently securing the recaptured villages and clearing remaining pockets of Al-Shabaab terrorists in Lower Shabelle’s Afgooye district. The operation aims to degrade and eliminate terrorists from Lower Shabelle and neighbouring areas.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

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President Boakai Congratulates President Maada Bio on His Election as Chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority


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The President of the Republic of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has extended warm congratulations to His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, on his election as Chair of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The election of President Bio took place during the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority held in Abuja, Federal Republic of Nigeria. In his congratulatory message, President Boakai hailed the selection of President Bio as a testament to his steadfast leadership, dedication to democratic governance, and commitment to the collective progress of the West African sub-region. President Boakai commended President Bio’s efforts in fostering peace, security, and stability in Sierra Leone, as well as his active engagement in promoting regional cooperation. He expressed strong confidence that, under President Bio’s stewardship, ECOWAS will be well positioned to address pressing challenges such as insecurity, economic integration, youth unemployment, and climate resilience, while strengthening democratic institutions and good governance.

President Boakai reaffirmed Liberia’s unwavering commitment to the ideals and objectives of ECOWAS and pledged his government’s continued collaboration in advancing the shared vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated West Africa. “As a close neighbor and sister republic,” President Boakai stated, “Liberia stands in full solidarity with the Government and People of Sierra Leone, and we look forward to working closely with President Bio in his new role to foster unity, development, and the well-being of all ECOWAS citizens.” The Liberian leader extended best wishes to President Bio for a successful tenure and assured him of Liberia’s support as he assumes this vital regional responsibility.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

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Retooling our security services: A commitment to public safety


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President John Dramani Mahama has announced a significant investment of 1 billion Ghana cedis towards retooling our vital security services. This commitment underscores his dedication to ensuring the safety and security of all Ghanaians.

Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS): Recognising the urgent need for updated equipment, new fire tenders will be acquired to replace ageing and broken-down vehicles, some nearly a decade old. “We understand the frustrations of our citizens when the Fire Service arrives late, and this initiative aims to equip them to respond more effectively to emergencies”, the president noted.

Ghana Police Service: To better combat armed robbery, the Police Service will receive armoured vehicles to ensure the safety of officers during patrols. “We must provide our brave officers with the necessary tools to confront criminals effectively”, he added.

Immigration & Prisons Services: Acknowledging the mobility challenges faced by the Immigration and Prisons Services, new vehicles will be allocated to improve their operational capacity and enhance public safety.

President Mahama also acknowledged security personnel’s difficult working conditions and called for public understanding and support as his government works to build a safer country.

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

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Le Couple présidentiel en union de prière avec les fidèles de Magarama pour célébrer l’Eucharistie


En ce 22 juin, jour de la Solennité du Saint-Sacrement du Corps et du Sang du Christ, Son Excellence Evariste Ndayishimiye accompagné de la Première Dame Son Excellence Angeline Ndayishimiye, s’est joint aux fidèles de la Paroisse Saint-François d’Assise de Magarama, en Province de Gitega, pour célébrer la présence réelle du Christ dans l’Eucharistie

Dans son message de salutations aux chrétiens, le Numéro Un burundais a souhaité une joyeuse fête à tous les chrétiens et les a remerciés pour leurs prières, grâce auxquelles le pays jouit de la paix, d’un bon climat et de la stabilité. Il les a ensuite exhortés à poursuivre la prière afin que le Burundi atteigne sa Vision sans tarder:
« Dieu a toujours veillé sur nous, le peuple burundais, et nous comble de ses merveilles », a-t-il déclaré.

Dans son homélie, le Curé de la Paroisse Saint-François d’Assise, Abbé Herménégilde Birushe, a souligné l’importance de l’Eucharistie dans la vie du chrétien: « De la même manière que le corps a besoin de nourriture et que le cerveau a besoin de connaissances, notre coeur a besoin de l’Eucharistie pour être purifiée », a-t-il indiqué

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République du Burundi.

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Liberia to Commemorate International Day of Women in Diplomacy on June 24, 2025


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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the support of UN Women Liberia, will host a high-level event on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in observance of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. The event will take place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia. Established by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 76/269 in 2022, the International Day of Women in Diplomacy is observed annually on June 24. This day recognizes the critical contributions of women to diplomacy, international affairs, and peacebuilding, from grassroots activism to global negotiations. It also shines a spotlight on the persistent barriers that hinder women’s equal participation and leadership in diplomatic spaces.

Despite gradual progress, women remain significantly underrepresented in diplomatic leadership worldwide. As of 2024, only 21% of ambassadors globally are women, with Africa accounting for 20%, up just slightly from 19% in 2023. These statistics reflect slow but ongoing efforts toward gender parity in diplomacy. In Liberia, women represent 43.9% of the Ministry’s home office staff and 37.3% of foreign mission staff. However, they remain underrepresented in leadership roles, holding only 27.1% of home office leadership positions and 40.1% of decision-making roles in foreign missions. These figures demonstrate the urgent need for targeted reforms to advance gender-balanced leadership across the diplomatic service. In April 2025, the UN Human Rights Council adopted Resolution 58/15 on Women, Diplomacy and Human Rights, led by Morocco, Chile, Mexico, and Spain and co-sponsored by more than 95 Member States. The resolution calls for systemic reforms to eliminate discrimination in diplomatic spaces and reaffirms the global commitment to women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in diplomacy.

Liberia has a proud legacy of women’s leadership in diplomacy and peacebuilding. From former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female head of state, to Nobel Laureate Leymah Gbowee, Liberian women have long shaped the country’s diplomatic and peacebuilding efforts. Community-based mechanisms such as Peace Huts further highlight Liberia’s grassroots innovations in women-led diplomacy. Liberia is also among the growing number of countries advancing a Feminist Foreign Policy (FFP). A member of the FFP+ Group at the United Nations, Liberia reaffirmed its commitment to gender-responsive diplomacy at the 78th UN General Assembly and again at the 2025 African Union Summit. These efforts align with Liberia’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (NAP-WPS) and global frameworks such as UNSCR 1325 and HRC Resolution 58/15.

The June 24th event presents a strategic opportunity to:

  • Celebrate the contributions of Liberian women to diplomacy and peacebuilding;
  • Disseminate and contextualize HRC Resolution 58/15 within Liberia’s policy landscape;
  • Reaffirm Liberia’s leadership in advancing gender-equitable diplomacy.

Objectives of the Event

  1. Raise national awareness of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy and its alignment with Liberia’s foreign policy and gender equality goals.
  2. Recognize and celebrate the achievements of Liberian women in formal and informal diplomatic spaces (Track I, II, and III).
  3. Disseminate HRC Resolution 58/15 and explore its relevance to Liberia’s Feminist Foreign Policy.
  4. Facilitate dialogue among stakeholders on institutional reforms, mentorship, and pathways to expand women’s leadership in diplomacy.
  5. Generate actionable recommendations for creating enabling environments for women across Liberia’s foreign service.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs invites stakeholders from across government, civil society, academia, diplomatic missions, and development partners to join this important occasion in honoring and advancing the role of women in diplomacy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

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Qatar Strongly Condemns Attack on Church in Damascus

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, June 22, 2025 

The State of Qatar strongly condemns the attack on St. Elias Church in Damascus, the capital of the Syrian Arab Republic, which resulted in  deaths and injuries.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirms the State of Qatar’s firm position of all forms of violence, terrorism, and criminal acts, regardless of their motives or causes. It strongly condemns any targeting of places of worship and acts that terrorize civilians. The Ministry also expresses Qatar’s full solidarity with the Syrian government in all measures it undertakes to preserve security and stability.

The Ministry extends the State of Qatar’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Syria , and  wishes the injured a speedy recovery.

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South Africa urges dialogue to end Israel-Iran conflict

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa and the South African government have noted with a great deal of anxiety the entry by the United States of America into the Israel-Iran war.

It was South Africa’s sincerest hope that President Donald Trump would use his influence and that of the US government to prevail on the parties to pursue a dialogue path in resolving their issues of dispute. 

South Africa calls on the United States, Israel, and Iran to give the United Nations the opportunity and space to lead on the peaceful resolution of the matters of dispute, including the inspection and verification of Iran’s status of uranium enrichment, as well as its broader nuclear capacity.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Investigation into SANDF Macadamia Military Base incident

Source: South Africa News Agency

Sunday, June 22, 2025

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have launched a joint investigation into the deaths of two soldiers at the at Macadamia Military Base in Mpumalanga.

The SANDF confirmed Saturday’s incident near Komatipoort in a statement.

“A SANDF member, who had been approved for withdrawal from duty, attacked fellow soldiers in his accommodation. One member died during the incident. The attacker later died from self-inflicted wounds when he stabbed himself on the neck,” said the SANDF on Saturday.

The SANDF said Military Health and Chaplain Services were sent to support the affected members.

“The SANDF and the South African Police Service (SAPS) launched a joint investigation. The names of the deceased were withheld until their families had been informed. Further details will be shared as the investigation continues.”

The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga and the Chief of the SANDF, General Rudzani Maphwanya have sent their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. –SAnews.gov.za

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Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre set to grow tourism

Source: South Africa News Agency

The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is a living gateway into South Africa’s deep past and dynamic future, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said on Sunday.

“This Centre tells the story of a world 200 million years ago, yet it is also a story of the Basotho people, whose ancient wisdom and oral traditions gave rise to the mythical Kgodumodumo, now brought to life in scientific exhibition,” de Lille said.

She was speaking at the launch of the centre at the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State.

WATCH | Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre Launch

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The Minister said the centre also tells the story of the land claimant settlement agreement which includes a beneficiation package that largely consists of eco-tourism opportunities such as a camping site, horse riding, mountain biking, a 4×4 trail and hiking trails.

“I want to acknowledge that the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre has been made possible through close collaboration and partnership between the Department of Tourism, Evolutionary Studies Institute of the University of the Witwatersrand, South African National Parks [SANParks], National Treasury, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment [DFFE], the Free State Province and most importantly, the surrounding communities.”

The Minister was also grateful for the donor funding from the European Union of R120 million.

“I want to thank all partners for their invaluable contributions, both past and future. A special mention to the University of the Witwatersrand, which has a long tradition of palaeontological research.

“Subsequent work at this site revealed more nests at different levels, indicating that this was a seasonal nesting place for dinosaurs. We have created something both monumental and meaningful.”

De Lille said the centre is not just a museum.

“Government is diversifying tourism attractions to grow tourism. The Interpretation Centre will act as a catalyst for broader tourism development in the Free State’s rural economy,” she said adding that the centre will boost domestic tourism in one of the least visited provinces in the country.

“The province of the Free State is not a place to travel through but a place to travel to. We have trained 15 tour guides from the local community.”

The Department of Tourism launched the centre in partnership with the DFFE.

The two departments recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre to boost tourism in the Free State.

The centre will offer visitors an innovative, creative and quality demonstration of scientific knowledge (paleontological, archaeological and geological) with a broader appreciation of cultural heritage through interactive exhibitions.

The centre is managed by the SANParks, and it is envisaged that the facility will increase the bed occupancy and more activities for visitors to the park. 

READ | Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre to boost tourism

The development of the project includes the Interpretation Centre (paleontological offices and work space), the reception area, lecture halls, the display area-exhibition and display installation, the coffee/curio shop, the activity node – office, activity areas (children), parking – paved parking area, look-out point and bulk services, upgrade electrical supply – transformer and cable, sewer – connect to existing system water – connection. – SAnews.gov.za

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Burundi : Le Président Ndayishimiye clôture la croisade d’action de grâce en célébrant la fidélité de Dieu


Au dernier jour de la croisade d’action de  grâce, le stade Ingoma était envahi par un atmosphère de louange et d’adoration porté par diverses chorales, joignant leur voix à celle de son Excellence Evariste Ndayishimiye, Président de la République du Burundi, qui célèbre et témoigne de la fidélité de Dieu durant ses cinq années au pouvoir.

S’inspirant du thème de la croisade, le prédicateur du jour, Pasteur Isidore Mbayahaga n’a pas manqué de féliciter le Chef de l’Etat Burundais, Son Excellence Evariste Ndayishimiye, dont le leadership ancré dans la foi en Dieu, a permis une profonde transformation socio-économiques de la société Burundaise.

La population de la Province de Gitega a exprimé sa gratitude envers la Famille Présidentielle en lui offrant divers présents, saluant ainsi le leadership du Chef de l’État et plaçant ses projets sous la bénédiction divine, incarnée par le Père de la Nation.

Dans son mot de clôture, le Chef de l’État Burundais a chaleureusement remercié diverses institutions du pays pour leur soutien durant ces cinq dernières années, saluant les efforts menés ensemble pour relever les défis. Il a aussi exprimé sa reconnaissance envers toute la population, en particulier la jeunesse pour son engagement exemplaire et son travail acharné qui ont contribué à dynamiser la production nationale.

Génoux à terre en signe d’humilité, le Président Ndayishimiye a clôturé la croisade d’action de grâce de 3 jours par une prière solennelle implorant l’Esprit Saint d’inonder les cœurs des Burundais et des leaders en particulier. Il a également élevé une prière pour la paix dans la région.

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République du Burundi.