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Call for vigilance as new Mpox cases surface

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Call for vigilance as new Mpox cases surface

The Department of Health has issued a call for heightened awareness among the public as three new laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox have been detected. 

According to the department, the first case, identified on 21 February 2025, involves a 30-year-old male residing in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, who recently travelled to Kampala, Uganda. 

“The patient was diagnosed with Grade I Mpox virus, which is currently circulating in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda and has been reported in travellers returning to many locations around the globe,” the statement read. 

The other two confirmed cases - a 30-year-old male and a 27-year-old female, both from Ekurhuleni, were identified through thorough contact tracing and monitoring efforts led by outbreak response teams.

The department believes this development highlights the vital importance of open communication from primary cases to facilitate effective contact tracing. 

“All three cases are now recovering and self-isolating at home,” said the department.

The latest statistics bring the total cumulative number of positive cases from 25 to 28 cases, including three deaths since the outbreak in May last year.

Meanwhile, these are the first positive cases of Mpox recorded in South Africa this year after the last infection was reported in September 2024. 

Globally, Mpox continues to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) and a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) as per the declarations by both the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in August 2024.

While the department assures that there is no need for public alarm, it stressed the importance of remaining vigilant regarding the transmission of Mpox. 

Symptoms to watch for include a rash lasting two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen glands. 

Generally, Mpox presents as a mild, self-limiting disease with a low case fatality rate. 

The risk of widespread transmission in South Africa at this time is considered low; however, the department said the disease can affect individuals across all ages, genders, sexual orientations, and races.

“The department urges all people experiencing any of the symptoms, with or without travel history to countries and regions experiencing Mpox outbreaks, or who had close contact with known Mpox patients to seek medical care.

“Although, the country has a limited stock of Mpox-specific vaccines for the treatment of patients who experience severe health complications as a result of this disease,” it said.

Residents were also reminded to practice handwashing with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitisers, especially before eating or after using the restroom, to help mitigate the spread of the disease. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 02/28/2025 - 16:06
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Read moreCall for vigilance as new Mpox cases surface

Network International appointed as Payment Processing Partner by MTN Group Fintech

Location: News
Network International

Network International (Network) (www.Network.ae), a leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), has been appointed as a Payment Processor – Issuing partner for MTN Group Fintech, Africa's leading mobile financial services provider. This partnership marks a significant extension of Network's portfolio of issuer processing collaborations throughout the African continent. 

With a footprint spanning over 50 countries and serving over 250 financial institutions, Network International brings its expertise to this partnership which will enhance MTN Fintech's cutting-edge mobile services and provide even greater value to stakeholders and customers across Africa. 

The partnership will focus on rolling out card issuance products across key MTN Fintech markets, starting with Rwanda which is already operational. Soon   Uganda, Ivory Coast, and Nigeria will also be covered under this collaboration.  Network International will provide a comprehensive range of services, including transaction processing, card management and online fraud prevention. MTN Fintech users will benefit from a seamless experience accessing both traditional mobile services and innovative digital payment solutions. 

Dr. Reda Helal, Group Managing Director – Processing, Africa and Co-Head Group Processing at Network International commented: “Our collaboration with MTN Group Fintech marks a major milestone for our outsourced payments services in Africa. It demonstrates our ability to successfully serve Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) via our fully-fledged processing solutions and our continued dedication and commitment to the African region. We are excited to support MTN Group Fintech's growth strategy, and its business development plans across the continent.”  

Cedric N'guessan, Executive for Payment and E-commerce at MTN Group Fintech added, "This collaboration with Network International is pivotal in enhancing financial inclusion across Africa and beyond. It enables our customers to actively engage in the global economy, aligning perfectly with our strategic goals alongside Mastercard to broaden access to digital financial services across the continent." Read More (https://apo-opa.co/43aKuII) 

MTN Group provides voice, data, fintech, enterprise wholesale and API services to more than 288 million customers in 14 African markets.   

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Network International.

For more information, please contact:  
MTN Group Press Office
MTNGroup.PressOffice@mtn.com 

MTN Group Fintech (Proprietary) Limited: 
Head Office: 216-14th Avenue Fairland 2195, Private Bag 9955 Cresta 2118 South Africa 
Tel +2711 912 3000 
Fax +2711 912 4093 
Website www.MTN.com

Corporate Communications: 
Network International 
Dubai, UAE 
Tel: +971 4 303 2431 
lambert.espedido@network.global   

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About MTN Group Fintech:
MTN Fintech, the platform business of MTN Group, is dedicated to revolutionising global financial services through innovative digital technology solutions. Leveraging MTN's extensive reach and expertise in telecommunications, MTN Fintech is committed to advancing financial inclusion for all and empowering communities in Africa. With a primary focus on pioneering mobile financial services, digital payments, e-commerce, short-term insurance, and remittance capabilities, MTN Fintech strives to establish seamless, accessible, and secure financial ecosystems that shape the future of digital finance. 

About Network International:
Network International is the Middle East and Africa's largest and leading digital payments company. Our purpose is to help businesses and economies grow by simplifying payments and commerce. We operate in 50+ countries serving governments, banks, fintechs, merchants and public sector companies. We have 2,000+ employees based in our markets serving over 250 financial institutions and 130,000+ merchants.  

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Merck Foundation CEO Provides 194 Oncology Scholarships in Africa

Location: News
Merck Foundation

  • Merck Foundation marks World Cancer Day with African First Ladies by providing 194 scholarships of Oncology Training to African doctors from 32 countries. 
  • Merck Foundation together with Africa First Ladies and Ministries of Health has been building cancer care capacity and increasing the limited number of Oncologists in their countries by providing close to 200 Scholarships of One-, two- and three-years fellowship, diploma and Master Degree of oncology to African doctors from 32 Countries. 
  • Merck Foundation is making history in Africa by training the First African Oncologists and First Cancer Care Teams in Countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Burundi, Malawi, Niger, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more. 

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks ‘World Cancer Day 2025' together with Africa's First Ladies and Ministries of Health. Through their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation is is building quality and equitable cancer care capacity in Africa.  

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, highlighted, “At Merck Foundation, we mark World Cancer Day not just as a single day, but as a our continued commitment to transform and advance cancer care in Africa.  

Together with my dear sisters, the Africa's First Ladies, we are have enhanced the cancer care capacity in the continent by providing 194 scholarships to young African doctors from 32 countries, significantly increasing the number of oncologists in Africa. We are making history together by providing these important scholarships for the first oncologists and /or the first cancer care teams in many countries across Africa.”  

Merck Foundation in total provided more than 2100 scholarships to doctors from over 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

The Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program provides One, two- and three-years fellowship, Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of oncology for doctors from Africa. The clinical training has been conducted in India, Egypt and Kenya. Additionaly, Merck Foundation also provides scholarships for 2 years online PG Diploma in Cancer and Clinical Oncology, 01 year online PG Diploma in Medical Oncology and 1 year online PG Diploma in Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University. 

Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of clinical training in Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopaedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Surgical Oncology - Genital Urinary System, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing. 

Merck Foundation through its Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program has provided 194 scholarships of Oncology to doctors from 32 countries including Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.  

“In several of these countries, there wasn't even a single oncologist. We are proud to be making history in Africa by training the first oncologists and establishing the first cancer care teams in nations such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, and Niger. Merck Foundation remains committed to transforming the landscape of cancer care across the continent and leading Africa toward a healthier future,” explained Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej.  

Africa records around 1.1 million new cases of cancer, resulting in up to 700,000 deaths, every year, as per WHO data. The mortality rate of cancer patients is very high in Africa, as compared to the rest of the world.  

“One of the key reasons is also the late diagnosis of the disease. Therefore, these scholarships are very important” added Senator Kelej.  

Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.  

Dr. Chifundo Kajombo, Merck Foundation Alumni from Malawi shares, “I am privileged to be awarded a scholarship by Merck Foundation to pursue the Surgical Oncology fellowship training program at Tata Memorial Hospital, India. I managed to advance from basic surgical oncology principles to the advanced level. This has helped me improve my understanding of cancer and operative principles. Since returning back home, I have managed to change the structure of how our breast clinic runs and modified it to incorporate a number of new things that we probably could not have possibly included. I am so proud to share that I have just been awarded the Best Surgeon for 2023 in Malawi. I would not have achieved this feat without Merck Foundation's scholarship. I am very thankful.” 

Watch testimonials videos of Merck Foundation Oncology Fellowship Alumni: https://apo-opa.co/4bab06Y

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Link of the extra posters: https://apo-opa.co/3X6RmD6

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

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4k65XbW), X (https://apo-opa.co/43mGeGv), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/413ECyl), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3EVeWMS), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4gLTA1P) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4gSxZVs). 

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

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Civilians at Breaking Point in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

Location: News

UN News
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As the Security Council prepared to gather on Wednesday to debate the international community's response to the growing emergency in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UN's top aid official there urged all warring parties to allow lifesaving relief supplies to reach the most vulnerable.

“The rapid and uninterrupted expansion of the conflict, particularly in South Kivu province, continues to inflict a heavy toll on the civilian population,” said UN humanitarian coordinator for DRC, Bruno Lemarquis. “The population can no longer continue to pay such a heavy price for a conflict that continues to spread and now threatens the stability of the entire region.”

The veteran aid official's appeal came as yet more vulnerable people reportedly fled combat zones amid advancing and heavily armed Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. On Sunday the opposition fighters took control of Bukavu - the second major eastern DRC city to fall, in a matter of weeks.

“It is imperative to put an end to the confrontations” and resume dialogue, Mr. Lemarquis insisted, as he echoed concerns stressed by the UN Secretary-General that the continuing M23 offensive threatens regional stability.

For aid teams who remain committed to helping vulnerable and hard-to-reach communities impacted by the fighting, Mr. Lemarquis signalled that the most urgent priorities include reopening airports for humanitarian flights in Goma – capital of North Kivu and Kavumu in South Kivu, both now controlled by M23.

‘Tense' situation in Bukavu

The security situation in Bukavu remains tense, according to the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, which also reported that commercial boats have resumed services on Lake Kivu between Bukavu and Goma.

Humanitarian partners have also reported widespread looting in various part of Bukavu over the weekend, including a UN World Food Programme warehouse containing 7,000 tonnes of supplies.

“Several churches and collective centres in Bukavu are reportedly hosting displaced people,” OCHA noted in an update, adding that humanitarian assessment activities resumed on Tuesday “and will continue tomorrow as conditions permit”.

In addition to the urgent need for humanitarian supply flights, the UN aid coordinator urged respect for international law regarding the rights of internally displaced people (IDPs). Just last week, relief agencies expressed concern at a 72-hour ultimatum issued by M23 representatives to IDPs in Goma who were told to go back to their villages.

“Any return can only take place on a voluntary basis, under safe, dignified and sustainable conditions, in accordance with international principles,” Mr. Lemarquis explained.

Neutrality at core of mission

The UN aid coordinator also insisted that relief teams' “sole mission” was to provide vital assistance and protection to the most vulnerable, “wherever they may be...This action is guided by the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity, and independence, without taking sides or engaging in political considerations.”

The DRC emergency is one of the most complex humanitarian crises in the world; it follows decades of clashes between the Congolese armed forces and various non-State armed groups, widespread human rights violations and sexual violence.

Humanitarian needs are staggering and not just in eastern DRC, according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, which noted that seven million people within the country are displaced and more than one million have sought asylum beyond the country's borders.

Most of these refugees are hosted by Angola, Burundi, the Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia. At the same time, the DRC – a country seven times the size of Germany – also hosts more than half a million refugees and asylum-seekers.

This latest crisis in DRC's east has already uprooted hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people in a matter of weeks. Between 10 and 15,000 people have now crossed into neighbouring Burundi in a matter of days.

“UNHCR urgently calls for increased support to assist refugees and prevent further suffering,” it said in an online appeal. “We also urge an immediate end to hostilities in eastern DRC to prevent more displacement and civilian harm.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

Read moreCivilians at Breaking Point in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

Defence Committee Welcomes Repatriation of Soldiers Killed in DRC Conflict

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Co-Chairpersons of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence, Mr Malusi Gigaba and Mr Phiroane Phala, participated in the handing over ceremony of the mortal remains of South African National Defence Force soldiers who lost their lives in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

“We appreciate the work done by the department, United Nations, SADC and the SANDF to repatriate our gallant soldiers back home for their final burial,” said Mr Phala. “The committee has always believed that while the process is complex, everything should be done to return the remains to the country. We remain grateful that this has finally happened despite the delays.”

In the spirit of ubuntu and cooperation, the committee appreciates Uganda's contribution to facilitating the transfer of the soldiers' remains from the DRC to South Africa. “The spirit of cooperation is what is needed currently to enable dialogue, which will be critical in finding solutions to the longstanding instability in the DRC,” said Mr Gigaba.

The committee has also reiterated that participation in peacekeeping missions is an obligation that cannot be abandoned. “South Africa, as part of the African Union (AU), subscribes to the AU's Agenda 2063, which aims to silence the guns and provide a framework of diplomacy, conflict resolution and sustainable development to ensure peace on our continent. It is on this basis that we continue to support the deployment of the SANDF as a diplomatic tool to peacebuilding on the continent,” Mr Gigaba said.

While the committee remains of the view that a thorough investigation is necessary to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and prevent its recurrence, the continued use of all diplomatic tools available remains necessary to advance the strategic goals of peace, security, and prosperity.

The return of the mortal remains of the soldiers is a realisation of the promise made by the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the SANDF to the committee that no stone will be left unturned to repatriate our fallen soldiers back to South Africa. “It is now critical that families of the fallen soldiers are given adequate support and care during this difficult time,” Mr Phala said.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreDefence Committee Welcomes Repatriation of Soldiers Killed in DRC Conflict

Remains of 14 SANDF troops finally home 

Location: News

Remains of 14 SANDF troops finally home 

The remains of the 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who died in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have finally returned home and will be handed over to their families this evening.

The SANDF has rescheduled the handing-over ceremony and memorial service from Thursday morning to the evening. 

This change is due to unavoidable parliamentary commitments related to the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate in Cape Town.

The troops lost their lives at the hands of the M23 as fighting in the Goma region escalated. 

The rebel group fought intensely against the Congolese armed forces, resulting in the deaths of soldiers from 23 to 27 January during M23’s advance on Sake and Goma.

The soldiers are part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.

Families have been eagerly awaiting their loved ones after multiple delays, including medical processing in Uganda.

READ | Fallen SANDF soldiers' remains expected to return home on Thursday

The memorial service in honour of the soldiers will be held on Thursday, 13 February 2025, at the Air Force Base Swartkop in Johannesburg at 6 pm. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 02/13/2025 - 09:11

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Read moreRemains of 14 SANDF troops finally home 

Fallen SANDF soldiers’ remains expected to return home on Thursday

Location: News

Fallen SANDF soldiers' remains expected to return home on Thursday

Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga has confirmed that the remains of fallen South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops are currently delayed due to medical processing in Uganda. 

The Minister stated that the soldiers are now expected to return to South Africa by Thursday, following the necessary procedures.

Motshekga addressed Parliament during an urgent debate to discuss the deployment of South African troops to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), held in Cape Town on Monday. 

The discussion follows the tragic deaths of 14 SANDF soldiers in the DRC, as their families await the return of their loved ones’ remains.

“I must say, from the latest reports, yes, indeed, the delay is disheartening. From the reports we are receiving, they are still in Uganda, undergoing all the medical processes, and we also are pressing very hard to get our deceased. 

“We were hoping that we’ll get them by today, but by the latest, we are told that Thursday they will be here,” she said yesterday. 

Motshekga informed the Members of Parliament (MPs) that the soldiers were under heavy attack from the M23 as fighting in the Goma region intensified, with the rebel group engaging fiercely against the Congolese armed forces.

The SANDF soldiers are part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.

The Minister announced that the soldiers would be laid to rest with full military honours. 

Meanwhile, International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has dismissed the opposition MPs’ proposal to withdraw South African soldiers from the DRC, stating that this action would be worse than surrender.

“Abrupt withdrawal as called upon by some in the House, is not even a tactical retreat, it is even worse than a surrender as with the number of armed groups in the area, there lies ambush,” he said.

Lamola stated that the South African government welcomes the leaders of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) and the East Africa Community (EAC), who called for a ceasefire and dialogue in the DRC over the weekend.

This follows a SADC – EAC Heads of State and Government Summit on the security situation in the eastern DRC, in which President Cyril Ramaphosa also took part. 

He believes that the recent summit of SADC and the EAC, has clarified the way forward regarding the conflict in eastern DRC. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 02/11/2025 - 13:32

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Read moreFallen SANDF soldiers’ remains expected to return home on Thursday

Historic summit brings hope for peace in the DRC

Location: News

Historic summit brings hope for peace in the DRC

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated South Africa’s commitment to a diplomatic solution that ensures stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its neighbours, while also protecting the well-being of the Congolese people.

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, President Ramaphosa said South Africa supports the right of the Congolese people to live free from forces that violate their human rights, plunder their natural resources and terrorise their communities. 

“South Africa stands in solidarity with the Congolese people and their aspiration to live in peace and security.

“We reaffirm our commitment to a diplomatic and political solution that prioritises the stability of the DRC and neighbouring countries and safeguards the peace and well-being of the Congolese people,” the President said on Monday.

This as the President has just returned from a Heads of State summit in Tanzania on the conflict in the eastern DRC. 
He said the outcomes of the summit provide a beacon of hope for the troubled eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. 

Heads of State and Government from the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) and East Africa Community (EAC) have issued a clarion call for “political and diplomatic engagement” by all parties, including M23 rebels, in the eastern DRC.

Leaders from the two regional blocs, including President Ramaphosa, attended an urgent joint SADC-EAC Heads of State and Government Summit at the weekend as tensions, and casualties, in the DRC conflict continue to escalate.

The historic joint summit brought together the EAC and SADC to consider the deteriorating security situation in the eastern DRC and to find a sustainable political solution. 

As a member of SADC and the African Union, the President said the country has a responsibility to support all efforts to bring peace and stability to its fellow African nation, which has been racked by war for more than three decades. 

Loss of lives

South Africa contributes troops to the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) and the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC). 

Recently, 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops paid the ultimate price for their efforts to restore peace to the region. The deaths of the soldiers alongside troops from other African nations signalled an alarming escalation in the conflict. 

READ | Movement of fallen SANDF soldiers now underway

The strategic city of Goma in the eastern DRC is now under the control of the M23 rebel group fighting the Congolese army, with the M23 having made advances in other towns. 

Diplomacy

“As South Africa we have steadfastly maintained that diplomacy is the most sustainable solution to this conflict. While we are involved in peacekeeping missions, South Africa actively participates in the various diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in the eastern DRC,” he said. 

These include the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and the Great Lakes Region, the Luanda Peace Process led by the President of Angola, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço , and the EAC-led Nairobi Process facilitated by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta.

“As South Africa, we have always believed that the best way to resolve a conflict is to ensure that all parties to the conflict are involved in the negotiations that lead to the resolution of the conflict, whether they are state actors or non-state actors.

“We are pleased that this approach was adopted and reconfirmed at the SADC extraordinary summit held in Harare, Zimbabwe, two weeks ago,” the President said. 

He highlighted that several of the countries in the EAC bloc, such as Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania and Rwanda, share borders with the DRC and are directly impacted by the ongoing conflict. It was therefore significant that the Heads of State of these countries and the President of the DRC were at the joint summit. 

Way forward

“Having considered a report on the security situation in the eastern DRC, the summit reiterated the call for an immediate ceasefire and a cessation of hostilities between the warring parties. A ceasefire will allow humanitarian aid corridors to operate and bring much needed supplies to the civilians caught in the crossfire,” he said. 

The summit further directed that the EAC/SADC Chiefs of Defence Forces meet within five days to develop a securitisation plan for Goma and the surrounding area, the reopening of Goma airport, the evacuation of civilians and the repatriation of the deceased. 

READ | SADC-EAC leaders call for dialogue in DRC conflict

One of the most significant outcomes was that the joint summit agreed that direct negotiations and dialogue resume between all state and non-state parties, including the M23. This will take place under the framework of the Luanda and Nairobi processes.

“We are pleased that this inclusive approach was endorsed and adopted at the historic joint EAC/SADC summit under the leadership of President William Ruto of Kenya and President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe.

“This is a major step forward. Unless all parties to the conflict are brought around the negotiating table, all diplomatic solutions will lack credibility and be unsustainable in the long term,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The joint summit also affirmed the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC, meaning that a process must be developed for uninvited foreign armed forces to withdraw from the DRC. 

President Ramaphosa said the outcomes from the joint summit are in essence confidence-building measures towards a sustainable peace. 

“These confidence building measures will finally lead to the drawdown of the SAMIDRC troops. This historic summit of the EAC and SADC paves the way for a lasting peace in the eastern DRC.”

The President concluded by quoting Congolese revolutionary and statesman, Patrice Lumumba, who once said:  “We are not alone. Africa, the free peoples and the peoples fighting for their freedom in all corners of the world will always be side by side with the millions of Congolese who will not give up the struggle.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Mon, 02/10/2025 - 08:52

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Read moreHistoric summit brings hope for peace in the DRC

Movement of fallen SANDF soldiers now underway

Location: News

Movement of fallen SANDF soldiers now underway

Efforts to repatriate the remains of 14 South African soldiers that were killed in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo last month are now firmly underway following delays.

The repatriation of the bodies – which is being done with the help of the United Nations – faced delay after the Department of Defence completed and handed over all administrative processes to the UN.

“Following delays that were encountered for the movement of the remains of the deceased from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the UN Logistics Base in Entebbe, Uganda, the South African National Defence Force can confirm that the movement is now underway. 

“The movement is conducted by the United Nations. It is expected that by tomorrow afternoon East African Time, they will arrive in Entebbe and the bodies will be prepared for transportation by air to South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania,” the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) said in a statement.

The 14 soldiers – hailed as African heroes by President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier this week – died in the DRC after coming under deadly attack allegedly from M23 fighters.

South African soldiers are in the DRC as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) and the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO).

Addressing the media following the State of the Nation Address, President Ramaphosa said: “We want our soldiers to come back. We want peace to prevail in that area in the part of our continent, so that the people of DRC can live in peace. And all of us can be in our own countries advancing development of our own people”.  – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sat, 02/08/2025 - 11:20

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Read moreMovement of fallen SANDF soldiers now underway

President Ramaphosa to participate in joint SADC – EAC summit on the DRC

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to participate in joint SADC – EAC summit on the DRC

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to embark on a working visit to Dar Es Salaam in the United Republic of Tanzania on Saturday, to participate in the joint Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) – East Africa Community (EAC) Heads of State and Government Summit on the security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). 

This was announced on Wednesday by Presidential spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, during a media briefing at the Imbizo Media Centre in Cape Town to update on the President’s programme and address recent developments of interest.

“The Heads of State and Government of SADC and the EAC agreed to meet urgently following their respective extraordinary summits held last month to deliberate on the way forward regarding the security situation in the DRC,” Magwenya said. 

The joint SADC – EAC Summit will be preceded by Senior Officials and Foreign Ministers Meetings taking place on 6 and 7 February 2025. 

The Extraordinary SADC Summit held last month mandated the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation to engage all State and non-State parties to the conflict on a ceasefire process to protect lives and facilitate a smooth flow of humanitarian support to people and communities affected by the armed conflict.

It also urged Political and Diplomatic leaders who are parties to the conflict to engage in a coordinated effort of dialogue, including supporting the Luanda Process, United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and others, to restore peace and security in Eastern DRC.

READ | SADC Extraordinary Summit condemns escalating violence in DRC, calls for urgent action

SONA Debate Reply

President Ramaphosa will deliver his reply to the State of the Nation debate on 13 February 2025. 

Magwenya said the President looks forward to a constructive and substantively enriching debate that will follow his SONA address. 

38th AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government

President Ramaphosa is also expected to lead the South African delegation to the 38th African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

“President Ramaphosa will lead the South African Delegation to the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the AU, which is taking place on 15 and 16 February 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He will be accompanied by several Ministers and senior officials,” Magwenya said. 

The Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU will be held under the theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations”. 

It will review and assess what has been achieved in Africa’s efforts towards the attainment of long overdue justice and reparations after decades of colonialism and apartheid. 

“The assembly is taking place two months after South Africa assumed its Presidency of the G20 in 2025. The Summit will be a unique opportunity for President Ramaphosa to brief his counterparts on the key priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency and their alignment to Agenda 2063. The high-level meeting on the G20 will take place on 15 February 2025, on the margins of the summit,” he said. 

One of the main objectives of the forthcoming assembly is to elect the new senior leadership of the AU Commission, Chairperson and a Deputy Chairperson of the Commission. There are three candidates vying for the Chairperson position, while four candidates are contesting the Deputy Chairperson position. It will also appoint the six Commissioners following the endorsement by the Executive Council. 

“The summit is expected to discuss the status of Peace and Security on the continent. The discussion on peace and security on the continent will take place against the backdrop of great concerns regarding the state of peace and security on the continent, including the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The discussions on the peace and security situation in Sudan and South Sudan will also feature prominently during the summit,” Magwenya said. 

The President, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan, also known as the C-5, will convene an extended meeting on South Sudan to include key countries in the Eastern Region such as Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda. The current President of South Sudan, President Silva Kiir will also be in attendance. 

South Africa will participate in the exchange of views on issues such as AUDA-NEPAD, APRM and Climate Change on the margins of the AU Summit. There will also be a review and assessment of the implementation of the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical flagship project of Agenda 2063.

G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting

President Ramaphosa will, on 20 February 2025, host the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting at the NASREC EXPO Centre, in Gauteng. 

Issues for discussion include the current geopolitical dynamics, as well as the President's reflection on South Africa’s G20 Presidency High–Level Deliverables and the Review of the G20 @20. 

South Africa’s G20 Presidency commenced on 1 December 2024 under the theme, “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”.

Basic Education Sector Lekgotla

President Ramaphosa will deliver a keynote address on 27 February 2025 at the Basic Education Lekgotla.

The Department of Basic Education will host the Basic Education Sector Lekgotla at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre, Johannesburg. 

The theme of the 2025 Lekgotla is “Strengthening foundations for Learning for a resilient future-fit education system”. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 02/05/2025 - 14:07

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Committee on International Relations Says Unity of Africans a Major Priority

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation says the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which has been unfolding for some time, should be of grave concern to all peace-loving people yearning for unity among Africans.

Committee Chairperson, Mr Supra Mahumapelo, said, “As South Africa, Malawi and Uganda, we are in the DRC as part of many historical and current efforts to ensure that Africa in general and the DRC in particular is at peace. Once more, as the Committee on International Relations and Corporation, we send our condolences and deep sorrow to the sons and daughters we lost in the course of the struggle for peace and unity in Africa.”

Mr Mahumapelo said the committee applauds the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the South African National Defence Force for continuing to explain that “our presence in the DRC and elsewhere on the continent is not based on our own mission, but the collective mission of both SADC and the UN to stabilise the DRC”.

He further said the committee commends President Cyril Ramaphosa for not being tempted into mudslinging with President Paul Kagame of Rwanda but choosing the correct path of diplomacy at a presidential level.

“We are confident that after the good and productive meeting of the SADC held and presided over by President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, a better diplomatic approach to resolving the DRC's political, economic and geopolitical conundrum will bear fruit. As the committee, we look forward to engaging with the Minster of DIRCO on progress in the DRC matter,” he said.

The committee has written a letter to the Portfolio Committee on Defence and other relevant committees calling for joint accountability work on the DRC matter and report to the people of South Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreCommittee on International Relations Says Unity of Africans a Major Priority

Merck Foundation and First Ladies of Africa Mark World Cancer Day 2025: 194 Oncology Scholarships Provided Across 32 African Countries

Location: News
Merck Foundation

  • Merck Foundation marks World Cancer Day with African First Ladies by providing 194 scholarships of Oncology Training to African doctors from 32 countries.
  • Merck Foundation together with Africa First Ladies and Ministries of Health has been building cancer care capacity and increasing the limited number of Oncologists in their countries by providing close to 200 Scholarships of One-, two- and three-years fellowship, diploma and Master Degree of oncology to African doctors from 32 Countries.
  • Merck Foundation is making history in Africa by training the First African Oncologists and First Cancer Care Teams in Countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Burundi, Malawi, Niger, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks ‘World Cancer Day 2025' together with Africa's First Ladies and Ministries of Health. Through their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation is building quality and equitable cancer care capacity in Africa.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, highlighted, “At Merck Foundation, we mark World Cancer Day not just as a single day, but as our continued commitment to transform and advance cancer care in Africa.

Together with my dear sisters, the Africa's First Ladies, we are have enhanced the cancer care capacity in the continent by providing 194 scholarships to young African doctors from 32 countries, significantly increasing the number of oncologists in Africa. We are making history together by providing these important scholarships for the first oncologists and /or the first cancer care teams in many countries across Africa.”  

Merck Foundation in total provided more than 2100 scholarships to doctors from over 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

The Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program provides One, two- and three-years fellowship, Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of oncology for doctors from Africa. The clinical training has been conducted in India, Egypt and Kenya. Additionaly, Merck Foundation also provides scholarships for 2 years online PG Diploma in Cancer and Clinical Oncology, 01 year online PG Diploma in Medical Oncology and 1 year online PG Diploma in Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.

Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of clinical training in Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopaedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Surgical Oncology - Genital Urinary System, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.

Merck Foundation through its Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program has provided 194 scholarships of Oncology to doctors from 32 countries including Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

“In several of these countries, there wasn't even a single oncologist. We are proud to be making history in Africa by training the first oncologists and establishing the first cancer care teams in nations such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, and Niger. Merck Foundation remains committed to transforming the landscape of cancer care across the continent and leading Africa toward a healthier future,” explained Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Africa records around 1.1 million new cases of cancer, resulting in up to 700,000 deaths, every year, as per WHO data. The mortality rate of cancer patients is very high in Africa, as compared to the rest of the world.

“One of the key reasons is also the late diagnosis of the disease. Therefore, these scholarships are very important” added Senator Kelej.

Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.

Dr. Chifundo Kajombo, Merck Foundation Alumni from Malawi shares, “I am privileged to be awarded a scholarship by Merck Foundation to pursue the Surgical Oncology fellowship training program at Tata Memorial Hospital, India. I managed to advance from basic surgical oncology principles to the advanced level. This has helped me improve my understanding of cancer and operative principles. Since returning back home, I have managed to change the structure of how our breast clinic runs and modified it to incorporate a number of new things that we probably could not have possibly included. I am so proud to share that I have just been awarded the Best Surgeon for 2023 in Malawi. I would not have achieved this feat without Merck Foundation's scholarship. I am very thankful.”

Watch testimonials videos of Merck Foundation Oncology Fellowship Alumni: https://apo-opa.co/42ziwpY

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3CxqKnW), X (https://apo-opa.co/3Q8rwL3), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/42Hdtnk), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/42zjKl4), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/40A5EwY) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/40GOfmv).

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

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SA hosts global circular economy workshop

Location: News

SA hosts global circular economy workshop

Efforts to ensure that South Africa has a clean and healthy environment are under the spotlight at the 7th Global Forum of Cities for Circular Economy (GFCCE) workshop.

The two-day workshop, which is being hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in Johannesburg -- in collaboration with the Centre for Science and Environment -- is aimed at enhancing South-South cooperation for improving the solid waste management ecosystem in the Global South, and building the capacity of nominated officials from 18 African nations.

The workshop, which concludes on Wednesday, is being attended by delegates from Botswana, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Addressing the opening of the workshop, South Africa's Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, highlighted some of the measures government has adopted to bolster the circular economy, focusing on reusing and recycling materials to ensure a sustainable and secure supply of resources.

“South Africa has instituted various policy instruments and initiatives to advance sustainable development pathways, with circular economy principles firmly embedded in these strategies,” Swarts said on Tuesday. 

These policy instruments include the National Waste Management Strategy, Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations (EPR) for priority waste streams and other economic instruments that include fees, levies and taxes to incentivise or disincentivise behaviour change.

“Extended Producer Responsibility became necessary to be included in South Africa’s policy mix, given the increased generation of waste. EPR shifts seek to shift the responsibility for products from municipalities and consumers, to producers.

“South Africa is under immense pressure and the host city [of the workshop] - the City of Joburg - together with others - does not have sufficient landfill airspace. It is, therefore, necessary to utilise a policy mix to address resource efficiency. It is also necessary that cities are enabled to monitor resource use,” Swarts said.

The Deputy Minister noted that for meaningful progress to be made across the board, strong partnerships are needed.

"Collaboration between government and the private sector is paramount in realising the goals of the waste management hierarchy and facilitating our transition to a circular economy. 

“South Africa remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening these partnerships and advancing the shared objectives of the GFCCE. This collaboration benefits our governments through reduced spending and creates green opportunities,” she said.

Since its establishment in 2021, the GFCCE has expanded to a community of 22 Member States, with 18 countries from Africa. This platform is dedicated to advancing circular economy principles in alignment with national policies and priorities. 

Cities account for 75% of natural resource consumption and 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions. 

Swarts said more people will continue to migrate to cities to seek better opportunities and it is necessary that cities become resilient in resource efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint. - SAnews.gov.za

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Tue, 01/28/2025 - 13:05

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32 Young African Researchers Build Their Data Analysis Skills at the 2025 Afrobarometer Summer School and Thematic Workshop

Location: News
Afrobarometer

Thirty-two young African researchers from 14 countries are sharpening their research and analysis skills at the 2025 Afrobarometer (www.Afrobarometer.org) English-language Summer School and Thematic Workshop, hosted at the University of Cape Town in South Africa. More than half of the programme's participants are women, underscoring Afrobarometer's dedication to empowering women.

Afrobarometer's Summer School is an introductory-level analysis course that equips young African scholars with essential skills in research design, survey methodology, and data analysis, focusing on public attitudes towards democracy, governance, and other critical areas. The 2025 Summer School, taking place from 13 to 31 January, will give participants the opportunity to explore a range of topics, including perspectives on climate change, support for military rule or democracy, and attitudes towards refugees, free trade and open borders, access to healthcare, and women's participation.

The two-week intermediate Thematic Workshop, running from 20 January to 2 February, focuses on developing more advanced data collection and analysis skills among African researchers, fostering impactful research and strengthening research networks across African institutions.

According to Jason Owen, Afrobarometer capacity building manager (advanced track), the Summer School and Thematic Workshop serve as vital platforms for capacity building, collaboration, and the advancement of research that addresses Africa's pressing governance challenges.

“By building a new generation of scholars and facilitating the production of analytical outputs that make use of Afrobarometer's extensive open access datasets, we continue to amplify African voices and contribute to data-driven policymaking across the continent,” he said.

Participants are optimistic about the workshop's transformative impact.

“As a humanitarian and development communication specialist, I work with communities and policy-makers to address political engagement issues among refugees and internally displaced people,” said Ruth Nakayima, research assistant and communication officer at Hatchile Consult Ltd and Plan International Uganda. “This workshop will build my capacities to understand geopolitics and to use data for social development.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afrobarometer.

For more information, please contact:
Asafika Mpako
Communications coordinator for Southern Africa
Email: ampako@afrobarometer.org
Telephone: +27 83 979 8299

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About Afrobarometer:
Afrobarometer (AB) is a trusted source of high-quality data and analysis on what Africans are thinking. With an unmatched track record of 380,000+ interviews in 42 countries, representing the views of 80% of the African population, AB is leading the charge to bridge the continent's data gap. AB data inform many global indices, such as the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, Transparency International's Global Corruption Barometer, and the World Bank's Worldwide Governance Indicators. The data are also used for country risk analyses and by credit rating and forecasting agencies such as the Economist Intelligence Unit. All AB data sets are publicly available on the website (www.Afrobarometer.org/) and may be analysed free of charge using AB's online data analysis tool (https://apo-opa.co/3WvFqdZ).

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Tanzania Confirms Outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease

Location: News

World Health Organization - United Republic of Tanzania
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Tanzania today confirmed an outbreak of Marburg virus disease in the northwestern Kagera region after one case tested positive for the virus following investigations and laboratory analysis of suspected cases of the disease. 

President of the Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, made the announcement during a press briefing alongside World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in the country's administrative capital Dodoma. 

“Laboratory tests conducted at Kabaile Mobile Laboratory in Kagera and later confirmed in Dar es Salaam identified one patient as being infected with the Marburg virus. Fortunately, the remaining suspected patients tested negative,” the president said. “We have demonstrated in the past our ability to contain a similar outbreak and are determined to do the same this time around.” 

A total of 25 suspected cases have been reported as of 20 January 2025, all of whom have tested negative and are currently under close follow-up, the president said. The cases have been reported in Biharamulo and Muleba districts in Kagera. 

“We have resolved to reassure the general public in Tanzania and the international community as a whole of our collective determination to address the global health challenges, including the Marburg virus disease,” said H.E President Hassan.  

WHO is supporting Tanzanian health authorities to enhance key outbreak control measures including disease surveillance, testing, treatment, infection prevention and control, case management, as well as increasing public awareness among communities to prevent further spread of the virus. 

“WHO, working with its partners, is committed to supporting the government of Tanzania to bring the outbreak under control as soon as possible, and to build a healthier, safer, fairer future for all the people of Tanzania,” said Dr Tedros. “Now is a time for collaboration, and commitment, to protecting the health of all people in Tanzania, and the region, from the risks posed by this disease.” 

Marburg virus disease is highly virulent and causes haemorrhagic fever. It belongs to the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. Illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly. Patients present with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. They may develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms within seven days.  

“The declaration by the president and the measures being taken by the government are crucial in addressing the threat of this disease at the local and national levels as well as preventing potential cross-border spread,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “Our priority is to support the government to rapidly scale up measures to effectively respond to this outbreak and safeguard the health of the population,”  

Tanzania previously reported an outbreak of Marburg in March 2023 – the country's first – in Kagera region, in which a total of nine cases (eight confirmed and one probable) and six deaths were reported, with a case fatality ratio of 67%. 

In the African region, previous outbreaks and sporadic cases have been reported in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, South Africa and Uganda. 

Marburg virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and spreads among humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected people, surfaces and materials. Although several promising candidate medical countermeasures are currently undergoing clinical trials, there is no licensed treatment or vaccine for effective management or prevention of Marburg virus disease. However, early access to treatment and supportive care – rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids – and treatment of specific symptoms, improve survival. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization - United Republic of Tanzania.

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Coca-Cola Beverages Africa Recognised as a Top Employer in Africa

Location: Business
Coca Cola Beverages Africa

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) (www.CCBAGroup.com) has been certified as a Top Employer in Africa for 2025, based on the results of the Top Employers Institute's HR Best Practices Survey.  

CCBA was certified as a Top Employer in Africa, and its operations in Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda achieved this accolade at country level.  

“We have a people-first culture that ensures unparalleled professional development for our valued employees,” said CCBA Chief People and Culture Officer Natasa Prodanovic. 

“Our aim is to nurture potential, attract and retain high-performing talent, and invest in growth. 

“CCBA's continued market success and status as the largest bottler of beloved Coca-Cola brands on the continent are other key differentiators. 

“We empower individuals to thrive and our certification as a Top Employer reflects the strength of our commitment to being an employer of choice for professionals with a desire to learn and grow. 

“Our people are driven to make an impact, are passionate about learning and committed to caring for others. 

“Congratulations to our leaders and colleagues, and thank you for making this recognition possible,” Prodanovic concluded.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca Cola Beverages Africa.

ISSUED BY: 
Wendy Thole-Muir 
Head: Reputation and Communication  
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa  
Tel: +27 83 795 8524 
Email: WThole-Muir@ccbagroup.com 

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ABOUT CCBA:
CCBA is the 8th largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 18,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 720,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. The group was formed in July 2016 after the successful combination of the southern and east Africa bottling operations of the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages businesses of The Coca-Cola Company, SABMiller plc and Gutsche Family Investments. CCBA shareholders are currently: The Coca-Cola Company 66.5% and Gutsche Family Investments 33.5%. CCBA operates in 15 countries, including its six key markets of South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique and Namibia, as well as Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Malawi.  

Learn more at  https://www.CCBAGroup.com 

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African Youth Tech Venture Entrepreneurs Embark on Groundbreaking Korean Innovation Tour

Location: News
African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

Twenty promising youth entrepreneurs from African technology ventures and enterprise support organizations have embarked on a two-week study tour of the Republic of Korea, seeking investment and insights from the country's innovative tech ecosystem. The African Development Bank Group's (www.AfDB.org) Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lab selected these young entrepreneurs from 133 ventures that participated in last month's Africa Tech Startup Forum.  

Held under the auspices of the Lab's Leveraging the Entrepreneurial and Innovation Success of Korea to Strengthen African Enterprise Support project, the Forum selected entrepreneurs who pitched the best business models during the weeklong virtual market access and acceleration program preparing, training, and connecting technology ventures with opportunities. 

Representing eight African nations -- Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda – the delegates span diverse technological sectors, including agritech and health. Their ambitious itinerary includes visits to prestigious institutions such as Global Startup Centre, LG Science Park, the Korea Software Technology Association, unicorn companies with valuations exceeding $1 billion and the Global Digital Innovation Network, a foundation supporting the expansion of South Korea's tech startups. 

Uche Ezadinachi, the founder of Kenya-based health technology venture Zuri Health, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity. “I am excited to go to Korea because the country has made serious technological developments. The [country] is a technology-driven society, and this tour is an opportunity for me to see how we can bring such technology to Africa,” she said.  

“We will share experiences with our Korean counterparts; they will learn from us as much as we learn from them,” she added. 

The delegation, which is more than one-third women and entirely composed of entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35, will participate in several high-profile events, including, K Startup Grand Challenge, an accelerator program supported by the South Korean government, Africa Innovation Networking Gala, and COMEUP Korea, an event connecting Korean startups with global investors, corporations, and media. 

David Chen, co-founder of Rwandan health data venture Kapsule, highlighted the tour's potential for relationship-building. “This is an opportunity for us to have face-to-face interactions and build relationships. This trip will help us link with other health technology companies operating in Asia,” he said. 

Financially supported by the Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Trust Fund, the Africa Tech Startup Forum is part of the African Development Bank's broader Jobs for Youth in Africa Strategy.  

Martha Phiri, the Bank's Director of Human Capital, Youth and Skills Development, underscored the program's significance. 

“This is a pivotal initiative that plays a crucial role in enhancing the skills of young entrepreneurs. These skills will empower young entrepreneurs to expand their ventures, which leads to significant employment creation,” she stated. 

Ndeye Absa Gningue, Innovation Platform Officer, managing the Bank's Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lab, said: “Platforms like the Africa Tech Startup Forum provide young people with the opportunity to nurture their potential. We will continue to work with them so they can blossom.” 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact:  
Leonard Makombe
Communication Specialist
Communication and External Relations Department
email: media@afdb.org 

About the African Development Bank Group: 
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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A New Agenda for African Philanthropy

Location: News
African Philanthropy Forum

By Gbenga Oyebode, Board Chair of the African Philanthropy Forum (www.AfricanPF.org)

For decades, Africa has grappled with a legacy of colonialism, political instability, and uneven economic development, leading to perceptions of the continent as one in need of external assistance and causing the label ‘the Dark Continent' to take on a new connotation. 

As the Dark Continent, Africa became an attractive destination for charitable interests, with a significant number of the philanthropic initiatives driven by external voices. These interventions though well-intentioned often failed to pay attention to local priorities and listen to the voices of proximate organization – those who precede and outlive the issues that philanthropic entities seek to address. As a result, many foreign-led philanthropic efforts have been unable to create the lasting, sustainable impact they hoped for.  

Framing Africa's Philanthropy Agenda 

The 2024 APF Conference was a time for reflection and agenda-setting for many prominent philanthropists, heads of foundations and leading change makers invested in Africa. From the conference and the changing landscape of things, it is clear that the time has come for philanthropic organizations, both local and international, to prioritize Africa's transformation.  

A transformed Africa is characterised by inclusive socio-economic development, democratic governance, education for all, gender justice and a commitment to addressing the climate emergency and harnessing Africa's unique demography. These will not only position Africa as a dominant player on the global stage but correct the flawed narrative of Africa as a continent in perpetual need.  

We should embrace Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma's vision, as outlined in the African Union's Agenda 2063, of an empowered Africa defined by self-sufficiency, innovation, and equitable growth. By fostering African-led initiatives and promoting resilience, we can help shape a future where Africa is both a global powerhouse and a beacon of opportunity for its citizens.  

True Change Starts from Within 

As the saying goes, charity begins at home. In the homes of oligarchs, the middle class and the lowly, the practice of giving time, solidarity and resources is commonplace because generosity is second nature to us Africans; however, our expressions of this generosity through coordinated, strategic philanthropy needs to grow. If change starts from within, then the level of philanthropic support from within our borders must rise to match the urgency of our needs.  

First, we must redefine and restructure our philanthropy by adopting innovative philanthropic models, and evidence-based methods to identify needs, deploy resources, measure the impact of our philanthropy and create a giving ecosystem that is responsive to our priorities as a continent.  

What it Takes to Achieve Transformation  

Much of giving in Africa is unreported and even those that are reported tend to happen in silos with several instances of duplication of efforts, especially in areas such as education and health which tend to receive a lot of attention from philanthropists. For those seeking to swim against this tide, there is often a lack of clear guidance on effective giving tailored to the African context seeing as strategic philanthropy is still growing phenomenon in Africa. Catalyzing transformative funding requires robust evidence. In this regard, APF collaborates with renowned institutions to conduct research and generate knowledge that enhances decision-making and promotes the adoption of practices in philanthropy. Its African Philanthropists' Toolkits also equips philanthropists with the knowledge to maximize the impact and scale of their giving.  

The work that APF does in convening philanthropists and facilitating collaboration in order to catalyse development in Africa is a beacon of hope and an opportunity which more players in the ecosystem need to tap into. In less than a decade, APF has reached over 3,500 philanthropists, social investors, across Africa and beyond by leveraging the power of community to provide avenues for peer-peer interaction and engagement at regional meetings and conferences. This growing community of partners committed to Africa's transformation will doubtless accomplish great feats in the coming years.  

A popular African proverb goes "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." To achieve lasting, sustainable impact, partnerships based on a clear understanding of the New Agenda for African Philanthropy are a good starting point for the reimagination and actualization of Africa as a thriving, self-sufficient continent on the global stage. 

The writer is the Board Chair of the African Philanthropy Forum  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Philanthropy Forum.

About African Philanthropy Forum:  
African Philanthropy Forum (APF) is a strong and vibrant community of partners who through their strategic giving, investments, and influence, foster shared prosperity on the African Continent. It was incubated by the Global Philanthropy Forum (GPF), a global network of strategic philanthropists and social investors committed to international causes from 2014 to 2016. In 2017, APF became an independent entity and continues to be an affiliate of the GPF. 

Over the years, APF has established a strong presence on the Continent, with footprints in Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe through convenings and activities.  APF has also invested in the development of two Toolkits for African Philanthropists and the “Why Give” Series, which consists of interviews with Africa's strategic philanthropic leaders to showcase their motivations for giving. 

Since its inception, APF has reached over 3,500 philanthropists, social investors, and key stakeholders in the philanthropic space across Africa and the world. Through APF's high-impact convening and initiatives, the organization has facilitated collaborations, amplified the work of change-makers, and shared best philanthropic practices and strategies for promoting homegrown development.  

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Verdant IMAP wins Best Advisory Firm: Private Equity at the Africa Global Funds Awards

Location: News
Verdant Capital

Verdant IMAP (www.Verdant-CAP.com) is delighted to announce its recognition as Best Advisory Firm: Private Equity at the prestigious Africa Global Funds Awards. The accolade was presented during the Gala Awards Dinner on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at the renowned Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town, bringing together leading firms in African private equity and asset management.

This award highlights Verdant's significant contributions to the private equity M&Aecosystem across Africa. Over the past year, Verdant's transactions involving private equity have included the sale of the Onix data centre business in Ghana on behalf of Africa Infrastructure Investment Managers, two exits for London-based Africa private equity firm 8Miles (Awash Wines and Biyinzika Poultry Industries Limited in Ethiopia and Uganda respectively), and advising ACA and IFC-backed WIOCC on its JV with Texaf to build the market leading data centre in Kinshasa, DR of Congo.  Verdant is currently at advanced stages with respect to six transactions for or with private equity funds, in South Africa, East Africa and West Africa, in sectors including technology, FMCG and manufacturing.  

The recognition reinforces Verdant's commitment to delivering innovative, tailored advisory services and unlocking value for its private equity clients. The firm also advised on notable cross-border transactions, leveraging its position as the IMAP member firm for its region. IMAP, the world's leading global M&A partnership was established in 1973, has member firms in 50 countries, in total over 600 M&A bankers and completes more than 200 M&A transactions every year.  The IMAP global partnership helps Verdant to bridge African and international markets effectively.

The Africa Global Funds Awards honour excellence in Africa's asset management and private equity industries. Verdant's recognition as Best Advisory Firm: Private Equity is a testament to its unwavering dedication to driving impactful solutions in challenging and dynamic markets.

With this award, Verdant strengthens its reputation as a trusted partner for private equity and other client groups navigating Africa's evolving economic landscape. As the firm continues to grow and innovate, it reaffirms its mission to deliver world-class advisory solutions that create lasting value for its clients and the continent. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Verdant Capital.

Media enquiries: 
Orient Mahonisi,
orient.mahonisi@verdant-cap.com

About Verdant IMAP:
Verdant IMAP is a leading investment bank operating on a pan-African focus, specialising in M&A and in private capital markets.  Verdant IMAP is the IMAP partner firm for its region.  IMAP with partner firms in nearly 50 countries, with over 600 M&A professionals, completing over 200 M&A transactions per year, reinforces Verdant IMAP's capability to deliver innovative financial solutions to clients across Africa and around the World. www.Verdant-CAP.com 

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Afrobarometer Connects Early-Career Researchers With Established Scholars to Build Analytical Capacity in Africa

Location: News
Afrobarometer

Afrobarometer (www.Afrobarometer.org) held its inaugural Emerging Scholars Workshop in November, bringing together early-career researchers and established scholars to enhance analytical skills and support the next generation of African researchers. This initiative aligns with Afrobarometer's objective of strengthening the continent's research ecosystem.

The workshop, held at the University of Pretoria's Future Africa campus, brought together 12 emerging scholars – half of them women – representing nine countries: Botswana, Benin, Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda.

Participants presented research papers covering diverse topics, received feedback from their mentors and peers, and engaged in professional development sessions designed to propel their academic and professional growth.

According to Jason Owen, Afrobarometer capacity building manager (advanced track), the workshop is in line with Afrobarometer's commitment to providing professional development opportunities for young African researchers.

“The emerging scholars that attended the workshop received detailed comments on their research from a panel of experienced academic mentors and peers,” he said. “The aim was to sharpen their analytical skills and to enable them to publish high-quality research using Afrobarometer data. We hope this type of workshop will foster a growing research and mentoring network that helps to build analytical capacity across Africa.”

The workshop also facilitated networking and collaboration. Nicole Beardsworth, a lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand, highlighted the value of such gatherings. “PhD journeys can be isolating and lonely, but opportunities like the Afrobarometer Emerging Scholars Workshop provide a window for young scholars from around the continent to meet each other, find commonalities, forge collaborations, and create community,” she said.

A section of participants also noted that the workshop provided them with a transformative platform to engage with established academics, gain constructive feedback, enhance research skills, and build professional networks critical for advancing their academic and career aspirations.

“I was attracted to this workshop because it provides a unique opportunity to engage with seasoned scholars, participate in sophisticated research discussions, and develop essential skills for my professional growth,” said Mbiydzenyuy Courage Sevidzem from the University of Bamenda in Cameroon.

Over the past two and half decades, Afrobarometer has trained hundreds of young researchers, civil society activists, journalists, and parliamentarians through several capacity- building initiatives, including French- and English-language summer schools, thematic workshops, mentorships, university outreach initiatives, and staff development fellowships.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afrobarometer.

For more information, please contact:
Daniel Iberi
Communications coordinator for East Africa
Email: diberi@afrobarometer.org
Telephone: +254 725 6744 57
Visit us online at www.Afrobarometer.org.

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Twitter: @ Afrobarometer
YouTube: @ Afrobarometer
Follow our releases on #VoicesAfrica. 

About Afrobarometer:
Afrobarometer (AB) is a trusted source of high-quality data and analysis on what Africans are thinking. With an unmatched track record of 388,000+ interviews in 42 countries, representing the views of 80% of the African population, AB is leading the charge to bridge the continent's data gap. AB data inform many global indices, such as the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, Transparency International's Global Corruption Barometer, and the World Bank's Worldwide Governance Indicators. The data are also used for country risk analyses and by credit rating and forecasting agencies such as the Economist Intelligence Unit. All AB data sets are publicly available on the website (www.Afrobarometer.org) and may be analysed free of charge using AB's online data analysis tool (https://apo-opa.co/3Vf0pB6).

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Enhanced Control Measures Helping to Control Mpox Outbreak in Africa

Location: News

WHO Regional Office for Africa
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More than 13 000 laboratory-confirmed mpox cases have been reported in the African region since the start of 2024, as of 17 November. Three countries – Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda - account for approximately 97% of all reported cases so far this year.

From reinforcing outbreak control measures including health worker training, to the delivery of medical supplies and equipment, and to the development of vaccine deployment plans, World Health Organization (WHO) is providing critical technical and financial support to countries to effectively respond to and end the mpox outbreaks in the region.

While much of the focus has been on those countries whose populations are at higher risk of exposure to mpox due to larger outbreaks, WHO is also supporting countries experiencing sporadic cases. With WHO support most countries in the region that have been affected by mpox this year have successfully prevented a small number of isolated cases from spreading more widely among their populations and taking on epidemic proportions. 

By the time Ghana reported its first mpox case of the year on 1 October 2024 – a junior high school student in the Western North region - public awareness of the virus was already elevated due to weeks of risk communication and community engagement through WHO-sponsored social media campaigns. 

Recognition of the symptoms meant that both the student and his mother, who was subsequently infected, were promptly taken to medical facilities for treatment and made full recoveries without infecting other members of the community. Rapid contact tracing and testing were conducted to ensure that the virus had not spread beyond the household, early actions that helped contain the disease. 

To strengthen the response, WHO is working closely with the Ghana Health Service to increase public awareness even further. Police and immigration officials at key points of entry have also received training on how to recognize the signs of mpox to prevent the virus being imported into the country. 

“Mobilizing resources to support risk communication and community engagement is just one pillar of our mpox response, but it has so far proven critical; Ghana has registered just two cases in 2024. Without informed populations there is a risk that infected people will carry on as normal, passing the virus on to those around them,” said Dr Frank Lule, Acting WHO Representative in Ghana. 

Gabon—which alongside South Africa, Guinea, Cameroon and Congo is assessed to no longer be experiencing active community transmission of mpox—provides another example of how early interventions can yield significant benefits. The country reported its first laboratory-confirmed mpox case on 22 August. A 30-year-old man who had travelled to Uganda and returned with fever, fatigue and a skin rash. After seeking medical attention, he was isolated until full recovery and an extensive contact tracing operation was launched by WHO-trained health workers. One of the contacts identified was a 25-year-old IT worker living to the north of Libreville.

“As a contact, rigorous protocol was put in place to ensure my safety and the safety of those around me. I was told to watch out for symptoms like fever, fatigue or lesions and to immediately contact the surveillance teams should these symptoms develop. They also asked me to limit social interactions and close physical contact,” explained Axel Mouketou. 

“The surveillance teams remained in close contact with me, conducting visits and calling me on the phone to evaluate my health. This regular contact helped me feel supported and gave me the chance to ask any questions to better understand what actions I should take,” he said. 

WHO has also provided personal protective equipment and other medical supplies to the Ministry of Health; installed thermal cameras at multiple points of entry to Gabon; trained 72 officials at points of entry—including police officers, customs workers and health workers—to recognise mpox symptoms and isolate patients; and provided technical guidance to key ministerial officials. These measures have helped limit the number of lab-confirmed mpox cases in 2024 to just two.

“Our main focus is to maintain surveillance, health training and community engagement once this epidemic is over,” said Dr Narcisse Tounaikok, WHO's interim mpox Incident Manager in Gabon. 

Similar contact tracing efforts were initiated in Guinea, after a seven-year-old child was confirmed to have been infected with the clade 2b subvariant of mpox on 2 September. Almost all the 91 identified contacts were fully followed up, with diagnostic tests revealing no further transmission of the virus.

Within days of the first mpox case being declared, Guinea's national health authorities published a response plan with technical input from WHO. In Macenta, where the case was discovered, WHO provided training to staff in 18 health centres and two hospitals, to emphasize appropriate infection prevention and control measures that can be used to limit the spread of infection within health facilities. WHO is also continuously supporting laboratories across the country with training and equipment necessary to monitor mpox and a host of other diseases. 

The successful containment of mpox has not been limited to Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea and South Africa. With WHO support, in 2024, Angola Mauritius, Morocco, Zambia and Zimbabwe have so far all prevented one or two identified cases from spreading further. 

“These countries are evidence of the value, both human and financial, of rapid detection, response and containment. With a timely push of reactive funds and technical assistance from WHO, they were able to stop the virus from spreading on a scale that would ultimately be much more challenging to manage, said Dr Samuel Boland, Mpox Incident Manager at WHO Regional Office for Africa. 

Across the African region, 14 countries—the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Uganda, Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, Central African Republic, Ghana, Liberia, Rwanda, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Zambia, and Angola—are still assessed to have active transmission of mpox, a viral disease endemic to Central and West Africa. All require further enhancement of disease surveillance measures. High levels of mobility on the continent, the emergence of the particularly infectious clade 1b subvariant in 2023 and the persistent risk of zoonotic transmission are all causes for continued vigilance, even in countries where cases have been successfully contained.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

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VFS Global Expands UK Visa Services in Sub-Saharan Africa in Second Phase of Rollouts

Location: News

VFS Global
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VFS Global (www.VFSGlobal.com) is proud to announce that residents of Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, travelling to the UK can now book appointments to submit their visa applications through VFS Global's new state-of-the-art Visa Application Centres (VAC).

From 19 November 2024 customers applying for a UK visa will be directed to VFS Global to book an appointment to complete their visa application. Customers will also have the option to choose additional services designed to make the application process easier.

VFS Global has been contracted by UK Visas and Immigration since 2003, offering visa services in 58 countries prior to the new contract. In 2023, VFS Global was awarded the new contract to provide UK visa services in 142 countries worldwide.

Mr. Alok Singhal, Head- Sub-Saharan Africa, VFS Global, said, “We are excited to embark on this new journey with UK Visas and Immigration here across Sub-Saharan Africa. We have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with UKVI since 2003 and look forward to now bringing travellers from Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, our best-in-class services.”

UK visa customers can now choose from a range of optional services, depending on their location, offered by VFS Global to provide enhanced comfort and convenience. These include document upload assistance, Prime Time for application submission outside of business hours, SMS notifications, document checking service, and courier return of the passport once a decision has been made. VFS Global's Keep My Passport While Applying service allows customers in all these locations to keep their passport once their application is submitted and biometrics have been enrolled. Customers will only need to re-submit their passport if a visa is issued.

Customers in Cameroon, Tanzania, and Uganda can also submit their UK visa applications from the comfort and safety of their home, office, or any other preferred location with our On Demand Mobile Visa service. In addition, our Premium Lounge service offers a personalised submission experience with dedicated staff members, which is available in Ethiopia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. The services can be booked in advance on www.VFSGlobal.com or at the Visa Application Centre at the time of the appointment. These services are completely optional and have no bearing on the processing timeline and outcomes of visa applications.

In the African region, VFS Global will provide Visa Application Centres for the UK in 31 countries. Under the new contract, VFS Global is already operating UK Visa Application Centres in nine other countries across Sub Saharan Africa since October 2024, including South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana.

UK Visa Application Centres

Angola: Rua 28 de Maio, Edificio Kende nº15 /17 , 1st floor F, Maianga, Luanda
Botswana: Game City Mall, 1st floor, Unit U101, A1 Lobatse Road, Kgale Hill, Gaborone
Cameroon: 4th Floor, Immeuble Ekang, Opp Palais Des Sports, Warda, Yaounde, 
Ethiopia: 6th Floor, NIB International Bank HQ, Ras Abebe Aragay Street, City Centre, Addis Ababa
Malawi: La Piazza Mall, Shop 7,  Plot Number 4/068-069 in Lilongwe
Mozambique: Maputo Shopping Centre, 6th Floor, 604 Maputo
Namibia: Hilltop Village, Section 27, corners of Grove and Ombika Street, Kleine Kuppe, Windhoek 
Rwanda: 5th Floor -KN 4Avenue, 63 street, Cogebanque Building, Kigali 
Senegal: Immeuble Atryum-Center, 1st Floor, KM 8  Route de Ouakam, Dakar
Sierra Leone: Flat 7, floor 3 Aberdeen complex Building,58, Sir Samuel Lewis Road
Tanzania: 1st Floor, Right wing, Nature Building, Toure Drive, Masaki, Dar Es Salaam
Uganda: Plot No. 42, Wing C,2nd Floor, Lugogo House, Lugogo Bypass, Kampala
Zambia: Zep-Re Building, Alick Nkhata Rd No. 54, Plot No. 356184, Lusaka
Zimbabwe: Sam's Levy Village, Suites S And T, Sam Levy's Village, Borrowdale

Angola                                                                                                                                                      Website: https://apo-opa.co/4fx7MMr Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri)

Botswana                                                                                                                                                      Website: https://apo-opa.co/3YW6Bis   Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Cameroon                                                                                                                                              Website: https://apo-opa.co/4i0MfgT Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Ethiopia
Website: https://apo-opa.co/3YXsQVd Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Malawi
Website: https://apo-opa.co/3AYcd3G Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Mozambique
Website: https://apo-opa.co/4hPTckR Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Namibia
Website: https://apo-opa.co/4hYqZZ6 Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Rwanda
Website: https://apo-opa.co/3ZgdLzq Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Tue to Thur)

Senegal
Website: https://apo-opa.co/4fDAyLw Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon, Wed & Fri)

Sierra Leone
Website: https://apo-opa.co/40Wt55M Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon, Wed & Fri)

Tanzania
Website: https://apo-opa.co/3UYrsR7 Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Uganda
Website: https://apo-opa.co/4fB7K63 Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Zambia
Website: https://apo-opa.co/4hUbqBD Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

Zimbabwe
Website: https://apo-opa.co/40Wt5Tk Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)

*Except public holidays

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VFS Global.

Media Contact:
George Cherian
georgec@vfsglobal.com
communications@vfsglobal.com

About VFS Global:
As the world's leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.

With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 69 client governments.  Operating over 3,400 Application Centres in 153 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 299 million applications since 2001.

Headquartered in Zurich and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.

Read moreVFS Global Expands UK Visa Services in Sub-Saharan Africa in Second Phase of Rollouts