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17 February 2025

Celebrating Best African Women and Young Researchers

Location: News

Merck Foundation announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards winners 2024, 5 Researchers from 5 different African Countries recognized under two categories - Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers.

Merck Foundation also announced the Call for Applications for new edition of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards 2025 to empower Women and Youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, announced the Winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024, in partnership with International Federation of Fertility Societies -IFFS, Africa Reproductive Care Society - ARCS, Manipal University and African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission to recognize African Researchers for their valuable research work and contribution to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS expressed, “Since 2016, I have taken immense pride in recognizing the achievements of our MARS Awards winners. This year, we honor Six Winners in two categories: ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best African Young Researchers Awards.'

These awards celebrate their significant contributions to research, particularly highlighting the efforts of African women researchers, who remain underrepresented in this field. Through the MARS Awards, our mission is to empower young researchers in Africa and to specifically encourage and support women researchers by enhancing their research capabilities and promoting their vital roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).”

The winners of ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best Young African Researcher Awards' will be enrolled into research training at a premier research institute in India.

“And I am also very happy to share with you all that as promised, we provided an opportunity to our first-place winner of each category to attend the 11^th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary which was recently conducted in Tanzania, however, only Mr. Jules Irenge Mongane was able to attend it”, shared Senator Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation is committed to improving the lives of people and has been transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, by providing 2080 Scholarships for doctors from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

The MARS 2024 Award Winners are:

Winners of “MARS Best Women African Researchers Awards” 2024

Dr. Nompumelelo Lebogang Malaza, SOUTH AFRICA (First Position)

TOPIC: Association Between Biochemical And Epigenetic Markers With Glycaemic Control And Neonatal Outcomes In Diabetic Pregnancies

Dr. Dorotheah Obiri, GHANA (Second Position)

TOPIC: Immune dysregulation in placental malaria and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

Winners of “MARS Best Young African Researchers Awards” 2024

Dr. Jules Irenge Mongane, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO (First Position)

TOPIC: Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection And Tubal Factor Infertility In Bukavu, Democratic Republic Of Congo

Dr. Christian Chassem Lapue, GABON (Second Position)

TOPIC: Epidemiology of helminthiases in women of reproductive age living in Lambaréné and its surroundings, Gabon

Dr. Gebrhud Berihu Haile, ETHIOPIA (Second Position)

TOPIC: Incidence of neonatal mortality and factors influencing neonate survival in neonatal intensive care unit in Northern Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study

“I am also excited to announce the Call for Applications for the new edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024. This year, special focus will be again on “The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care,” added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS 2025 will have scientific support from African Union Scientific-Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC); African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).

Details for MARS AWARDS 2025

Abstracts are invited from final year African PhD students and young investigators involved in research related to either of the following topics:

1) Women's Health

2) Infertility and Reproductive Health

All applicants should be primarily based at African Research Institutes and Universities, although collaboration within Africa as well as outside is also welcome.

Last Date of Submission:

Applications can be submitted till 30^th June 2025

How to apply:

Apply by clicking: https://apo-opa.co/3X5kcnH

Alternatively, the Applications and abstracts can be submitted via email to mars@merck-foundation.com, along with CV (including Name, Gender, Country, University/Hospital Name, Email address, Mobile Number) and the abstract document as an attachment.

Other Details:

All Abstracts will be peer reviewed.
Research Awards will be dedicated for two categories of Best African Women Researchers and Best Young Africa Researchers.
Winners will be eligible for Research Training in a prestigious Research Institute in India.
Top Winners will be invited to attend the 12^th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Videos Link: https://apo-opa.co/4hXOFvN

Contact Detials:
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/4gLG2TW), X ( https://apo-opa.co/3X70mZ3), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4b0ipG5), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4bbfmef), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4i22rgV) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4b8xLZ5).

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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14 February 2025

Chaos on the Lesotho Border

Location: News

Lesotho is surrounded by three of our provinces: KZN, the Free State, and Eastern Cape. It's a border that stretches for just under a thousand kilometres. It’s tough terrain that’s difficult to patrol – a role that’s left to the SANDF. But, if locals are to be believed, they’re failing dismally to deliver on their mandate, leaving communities along the border vulnerable to theft and violent crime. It comes as our Home Affairs minister recently commended the police and border officials for their effective operations during the festive season. As Masa Kekana reports, he may want to take a trip to the foot of the Maluti Mountains.
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14 February 2025

Politically Aweh Live Special: Nation in a State

Location: News

2025 has landed with a bang and US President Donald Trump is quickly shaking up the world order. Meanwhile President Cyril Ramaphosa has to keep the GNU (Government of National Unity) together and manage pressure from abroad - including trouble in the DRC. In his State of the Nation Address (SONA) recently, the president stood his ground against US bullying tactics, speaking up for the marginalised, which brought him praise. The GNU seems to be holding up, but is South Africa out of the woods yet? What of the recent return of load shedding, a growing water crisis, and SA's ongoing corruption, poverty, and inequality scandals? And are we ready to host a G20 summit? Let's get into all of it with your host, KG Mokgadi, and special guests and comedians! Let's get aweh!

13 February 2025

Severe Lived Poverty Is Surging in Many African Homes

Location: News

The share of Africans going without basic life necessities on a frequent basis continues to increase, the latest Afrobarometer (www.Afrobarometer.org) Pan-Africa Profile (https://apo-opa.co/40YwUp7) shows.

The proportion living under severe material deprivation has risen to its highest average level of the past 25 years. Most countries surveyed by Afrobarometer have lost the gains in poverty reduction they achieved in the first decade and a half of the 21st century.

The report, based on data from 39 African countries surveyed in 2021/2023, also suggests that increased corruption may play a role in resurgent lived poverty, though further research is required to identify factors driving this trend.

Key findings

Majorities report going without a cash income (81%), medicine or medical care (66%), and sufficient food (59%), clean water (57%), and cooking fuel (51%) at least once during the previous year (Figure 1).
On average across 30 countries surveyed consistently since 2011/2013, about three-quarters or more of respondents have reported that they went without a cash income at least once during the previous year, with a 7-percentage-point increase since 2014/2015 (Figure 2).
- Deprivation also shows increases, on average, for the other four basic necessities: Compared to 2014/2015, “going without” is up by 15 points for medical care, 13 points for food, 12 points for cooking fuel, and 9 points for clean water.
Rates of severe lived poverty, or the experience of “going without” basic necessities on a frequent basis, have also risen to a new high, affecting 24% of citizens (Figure 3).
Lived poverty varies widely across the continent in extent, intensity, and trajectory. For example, over the past decade, severe material deprivation has fallen in Liberia, Burkina Faso, Togo, Gabon, and Morocco (Figure 4) while increasing sharply in Nigeria, Namibia, Mali, Zimbabwe, and South Africa (Figure 5).

Afrobarometer surveys

Afrobarometer is a pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that provides reliable data on African experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance, and quality of life. Nine survey rounds in up to 42 countries have been completed since 1999. Round 9 surveys (2021/2023) cover 39 countries.

Afrobarometer's national partners conduct face-to-face interviews in the language of the respondent's choice that yield country-level results with margins of error of +/-2 to +/-3 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afrobarometer.

For more information, please contact:
Josephine Appiah-Nyamekye Sanny
Director of communications
Email: jappiah@afrobarometer.org
Telephone: +233243240933

Social Media:
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Visit us online at www.Afrobarometer.org.
Follow our releases on #VoicesAfrica.

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13 February 2025

SANDF Under Siege

Location: News

It’s a tragedy that’s led to calls for political resignations, a military withdrawal and a diplomatic spat with Rwanda. Fourteen of our soldiers, part of a military intervention force in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, were killed in a vicious firefight for control of the key city of Goma. The deaths were reportedly inflicted by a rebel group called M23, allegedly backed by Rwanda. That country’s president, Paul Kagame, dismissed the claim and scoffed at South Africa’s threat of war. So, should the SANDF be in the DRC in the first place, and how capable is it?
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12 February 2025

For the Love of Cricket

Location: Sport

For years, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has dominated the international cricket calendar. It’s where the best men’s T20 players converge each year in a tournament that is bursting with support and no shortage of cash. As our local cricket scene limped along - not helped by poor performances on the field - some forward thinkers recognised an opportunity to breathe fresh life into a stagnating sport. In 2023, the SA20 league was launched to much fanfare and a healthy dose of scepticism, but it didn’t disappoint.
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7 February 2025

Good Vibes With Carte Blanche

Location: News

𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝟮𝟲 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱.
We’ve been offering you glimpses of what happens behind the scenes at Carte Blanche. Previously, it was the story behind our coverage of the invasion of Ukraine, and now we’re giving you a taste of what goes into some of our lighter stories. Yes, Carte Blanche may be best known for hard-hitting exposés, but we also love bringing you unique feel-good stories. Stories that aren’t just uplifting for our viewers, but for our presenters and crews as well.
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6 February 2025

Police stand ready for tonight’s SONA

Location: News

Police stand ready for tonight's SONA

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says police management are satisfied with the state of readiness for tonight's State of the Nation Address (SONA).

“[Police] members will now be deployed and we are confident that they will execute their duties with integrity and the utmost professionalism,” Mchunu said.

Addressing the police officers deployed in Cape Town ahead of tonight's State of the Nation Address, Mchunu said they would play a vital role in maintaining safety and security.

“We stand ready today and beyond,” said Mchunu.

The police stand ready to ensure that the State of the Nation Address goes as smoothly as possible.

“All the objectives of the preparations as far as safety is concerned are going to be realised,” Mchunu said, adding that they had received all the reports on preparations to ensure that tonight’s State of the Nation Address goes smoothly.

“You are on duty. You are going to be in the spotlight, not only for us who are here, but throughout the Republic and outside the Republic, all eyes are going to be on you. You u are going to share the spotlight with the Head of State while performing his duties.

“All eyes are going to be around him in terms of safety and stability, not only at the City Hall where the proceedings are going to be held, but the whole of the Western Cape and the whole of the City of Cape Town,” Mchunu said.

Mchunu said people would be looking to the South African police to ensure safety and security and other related services.

“There is no doubt in all of us who are here that you will perform your duties beyond expectations, the citizens of this country are expecting you to be professionals. They are going to be looking at you with the expectation to deliver whatever it will take to deliver in accordance to the plan,” the Minister said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the first SONA of the seventh administration at 7pm tonight, under the theme: “A nation that works, for all”.

SONA 2025 takes place as South Africa recently took up the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) – a historical moment, as the country became the first African State to do so.

The address is expected to touch on the Government of National Unity (GNU) and how it is setting about achieving its objectives.

The SONA represents the official start of Parliament’s programme and is one of the rare occasions when the three arms of the state – the legislature, the judiciary and the executive – gather under one roof.

The SONA will be broadcast live on television, on radio and will also be streamed live on the Presidency and Parliament YouTube channels. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/06/2025 - 16:27

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6 February 2025

All eyes on President Ramaphosa

Location: News

All eyes on President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa will tonight outline the roadmap for the country for the year ahead, as he takes to the Parliamentary podium to deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA).

The President will deliver the first SONA of the seventh administration at 7pm tonight, under the theme: “A nation that works for all”.

SONA 2025 takes place as South Africa recently took up the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) – a historical moment, as the country became the first African State to do so.

In a media briefing on Wednesday, Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the address is expected to touch on the past, the present and the future of South Africa.

“The annual address gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a nation and recommits us to working together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy,” he said.

The address is also expected to touch on the Government of National Unity (GNU) and how it is setting about achieving its objectives.

In his Opening of Parliament Address last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa revealed that the GNU will dedicate the next five years to “actions that will advance” inclusive growth and job creation, reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living.

The seventh administration took office last year following the national General Elections in which the South African people did not give a single clear majority to any political party.

“In the address, the President will outline the task of the Government of National Unity in implementing the three strategic priorities of the Medium-Term Development Plan, namely, driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state,” Magwenya said.

Parliamentary process

During a media briefing yesterday, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza described SONA as a “crucial event on our national calendar as this Parliament but also as a nation”.

“This occasion is the result of months of meticulous preparation and coordination, which underscores its significance in shaping the national discourse and setting the tone for the year ahead.

“SONA allows the President as the head of state to speak to the nation and reflect on a wide range of matters of national importance, as well as outline the progress on the commitments made by the state.

“As such, SONA signifies the highest level of the state’s accountability to the citizenry by providing updates on the government programmes, developments in legislation and policies, profiling targets and a programme of action for the new financial year,” she said.

As the moment draws closer, leaders of the three arms of the state will form a procession and will enter the Assembly Chamber through the main entrance of the Cape Town City Hall.

The Speaker explained that SONA 2025 will “retain a full ceremonial format” including that procession.

“[This includes] a 21-gun salute, an aircraft flypast, a ceremonial guard, the singing of the national anthem, a full military band and procession involving provincial speakers and premiers, the judiciary, the Deputy President [Paul Mashatile] and the President,” Didiza said.

Youth involvement

Didiza told the media that although dignitaries from across the world will be in attendance, Parliament has also made special way for the youngest of South Africans to be involved in the day.

“As part of fostering civic awareness and public engagement, SONA… will feature the Junior Guard of Honour, comprising a hundred learners from four Western Cape schools selected in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Education.

“The involvement of these young learners is crucial in educating and exposing them to the workings, roles and functions of State institutions, helping to shape them as the leaders of tomorrow,” Didiza said.

During the media briefing, Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, announced that this year’s praise singer, who will usher the President in – a staple of the SONA – will be 19-year-old Inako Mateza, who hails from the Eastern Cape.

“The proceedings of this SONA will once again include praise singing by Imbongi. This practice is managed through rotational language and provincial selection processes, which ensures inclusivity and the promotion of all our official languages.

“This custom not only adds cultural significance to the event but also provides a platform to showcase grassroots talent on the prominent national stage,” Mtsweni-Tsipane said.

Speaking to SAnews, the award winning Mateza described her selection as an honour.

“Being chosen as an Imbongi to welcome the President in Parliament tomorrow means a lot to me because firstly, I'm a young person who embraces culture and tradition at a time where young people are focused and celebrated for amapiano music. So, for me being the Imbongi that will be welcoming President Cyril Ramaphosa makes me feel ecstatic.

“This opportunity will encourage me to continue the work I am doing. I've noticed that even people on social media enjoy the imbongi part of SONA. I thought I was doing this for my own enjoyment, but I see now that I have inspired others to walk this path too,” Mateza said.

The SONA will be broadcast live on television, on radio and will also be streamed live on the Presidency and Parliament YouTube channels. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 14:18

58 views

6 February 2025

The Fight for Citizenship

Location: News

They’re victims of legislation aimed at stripping dual citizens of their South African birthright – legislation already being challenged in court. Nickolaus Bauer meets some expats who’ve already lost their citizenship but are determined to keep fighting.
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3 February 2025

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

Location: News

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).

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31 January 2025

Africans Struggle With Interethnic Trust but Embrace Coexistence, New Afrobarometer Pan-Africa Profile Shows

Location: News

Most Africans embrace coexistence even if they struggle with interethnic trust, the latest Afrobarometer (www.Afrobarometer.org) Pan-Africa Profile (http://apo-opa.co/4gl1zTi) shows.

Based on data from 33 African countries surveyed in 2021/2023, the new report shows that most citizens have no objection to living next door to people from different ethnic backgrounds and are open to interethnic marriages within their own families. However, many express low levels of trust in people from other ethnic groups as well as in people from other religions and outsiders beyond family and community networks.

The report also shows that Africans are likely to prioritise their national identity over their ethnic one or to feel allegiance to both equally. Only a small minority put their ethnic identity first. But a growing number of citizens report that their government treats members of their ethnic group unfairly.

Key findings

On average across 33 countries surveyed in 2021/2023, two in 10 Africans (21%) say they trust people from other ethnic groups “a lot,” while 36% trust them “somewhat” (Figure 1).
But fully nine out of 10 citizens have no objection to living next door to people from different ethnic backgrounds (90%) (Figure 2) and are open to interethnic marriages within their own families (89%) (Figure 3).
Four in 10 Africans (41%) feel more connected to their national than their ethnic identity, compared to just 14% who prioritise their ethnic over their national identity; the remaining 45% are equally attached to both (Figure 4).

An overwhelming majority (92%) of Mauritanians feel primarily connected to their national identity, followed by 79% in Guinea and 69% in Congo-Brazzaville. A majority take this position in eight countries.
Majorities are equally attached to both identities in 11 countries, led by Liberians (71%), Ghanaians (67%), Ugandans (67%), and Batswana (65%).
Expressing primary allegiance to one's ethnic identity is a minority position in all countries, reaching a high of about one in four respondents in just three: Nigeria (27%), South Africa (26%), and Ethiopia (24%).

Across 25 countries surveyed consistently since Round 5 (2011/2013), there has been a 12-percentage-point decrease in those primarily attached to their national identity, alongside an 8-point increase in those who identify equally with both identities. There has also been a modest increase – by 4 points – in preference for ethnic identity, although it remains a minority position (Figure 5).
Four in 10 Africans (41%) report that members of their ethnic group are “sometimes,” “often,” or “always” treated unfairly by their government because of their ethnicity. Across 25 countries, perceptions of ethnic discrimination have increased by 8 percentage points since 2016/2018 (Figure 6).

Afrobarometer surveys

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afrobarometer.

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

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31 January 2025

Herman Mashaba Spills The tea on DA, MK, Malema and Helen Zille

Location: News

ActionSA's Herman Mashaba spills the tea on the DA, ANC and EFF. Plus, he talks GNU coalition chaos, Donald Trump, and foreigners.

🎯 Subscribe now for more laughs and insights! http://www.bit.ly/getaweh

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31 January 2025

North West Zama Wars

Location: News

𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝟯𝟬 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟮𝟬𝟭𝟱.
Exclusive CCTV footage shows the shocking extent to which zama zamas are wreaking havoc in the North West. These illegal miners are better known for descending on abandoned mines to get at any gold remaining underground. But North West police and security forces are no match for hundreds of zamas, armed to the teeth, nightly pillaging local mine infrastructure above ground. Carte Blanche enters the warzone.
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30 January 2025

Stilftontein: Trapped in the Deep

Location: News

Desperate and dying, more than 300 illegal miners spent months trapped in an abandoned mine shaft in Stilfontein in the North West in a prolonged and – for many – fatal standoff with authorities. Desperate families visited the site daily as letters and videos emerged from the depths, claiming that the miners were starving to death after police had stopped food supplies. Last week, the stalemate finally ended as 246 emaciated men and 78 bodies were pulled to the surface. These miners are just some of the thousands of zama zamas digging in and around old mines in Klerksdorp, Stilfontein and Orkney. As illegal mining continues to surge across the country, could more have been done to save the lives lost in this disaster?
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29 January 2025

Defeating Cervical Cancer: Improving Access to Testing to Save Lives

Location: News

Although cervical cancer is now a vaccine-preventable disease, 1 woman dies every 2 minutes globally of cervical cancer. Women in low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected.

In South Africa (SA), over 10,700 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed each year, with over 5,800 deaths. Cervical cancer is a preventable tragedy, and South Africa has the tools and knowledge to turn the tide.

We can eliminate cervical cancer by addressing the principal cause: the human papillomavirus or HPV. This is done by 1) vaccinating both boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 15; and 2) expanding access to HPV screening for all women. Screening for early diagnosis is critical because when diagnosed early, cervical cancer is considered treatable/curable.

SA is making significant strides in expanding access to both vaccination and screening, but significant barriers remain. Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, CEO of FIND (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA), whose mission is #DiagnosisForAll says, “The fight to eliminate cervical cancer is far from over, but there is hope on the horizon. FIND is working with the public and private sectors in South Africa to find innovative and scalable solutions to test for HPV”.

Recent research by FIND and partners provides critical insights that could transform how we approach cervical cancer prevention and management. The project explored the acceptability and demand for HPV self-collection testing among South African women as a means of increasing access to HPV screening.

Key findings from the client surveys include

1. Low Awareness of Cervical Cancer and HPV:

58% of women surveyed had little or no knowledge about cervical cancer or its link to HPV.
46% cited nurses and doctors as their primary sources of information, showing the critical role healthcare providers play in education.

2. HPV DNA Testing: The Preferred Choice:

77% of respondents chose HPV DNA testing as their preferred method, valuing its reliability and less invasive nature.
Among these, 71% preferred self-collection, citing privacy and convenience as the main reasons for their choice.

3. Pharmacy Accessibility:

74% of women who preferred self-collection indicated they would purchase kits from pharmacies.

4. Affordability and Willingness to Pay:

Most respondents indicated that a price point between $18 and $36 would make the test more accessible.

5. Home vs Clinic Preferences:

59% preferred collecting samples in clinics or hospitals, 28% preferred to self-collect at home, and 14% at a laboratory.

A Promising Solution: HPV Self-Collection Testing

One of the standout findings from the research is the high level of interest in HPV self-collection testing. This innovative approach empowers women to take control of their health by collecting samples in the privacy of their homes or at a convenient location. The research further revealed that many women are willing to pay up to $36 (approximately R680) for this service if made available at pharmacies.

Self-collection testing eliminates the need for invasive pelvic exams in clinical settings which many women find uncomfortable or stigmatising. It reduces the logistical challenges of accessing clinics, particularly for women in rural or underserved areas where healthcare facilities are not readily available. Making self-collection kits available in pharmacies could significantly increase screening rates and achieve early diagnosis.

The Knowledge Gap Among Healthcare Practitioners

While self-collection testing presents an exciting opportunity, its success depends on a well-informed and capable healthcare system. Unfortunately, the research revealed a concerning lack of understanding among healthcare practitioners regarding the national cervical cancer management protocols.

Without proper guidance, healthcare providers may fail to offer appropriate counselling, follow-up, or referrals for women with abnormal screening results. Addressing this issue requires targeted training and capacity-building initiatives. FIND, in partnership with the National Department of Health (NDOH), trained over 700 health practitioners between September and October 2024,

The Public Awareness Deficit

Equally troubling is the lack of available information for the public about cervical cancer, its causes, and prevention methods. Many women remain unaware of the importance of regular screening. Through its community arm, the African Cervical Health Alliance (ACHA), FIND, NDOH, and private sector partners engaged community health partners to develop, adapt and distribute over 10,000 copies of materials to communities about prevention and treatment of cervical cancer.

A Vision for the Future

To reduce the burden of cervical cancer in South Africa, we need a multi-pronged approach that combines education, innovation, and systemic reform. This includes:

Policy Support: Advocating for policy changes to integrate self-collection testing into the national screening program and subsidize costs for low-income populations.
Expanding Access to Self-Collection Testing: Making HPV self-collection kits widely available at affordable prices.
Enhancing Practitioner Training: Ensuring healthcare providers are well-versed in national cervical cancer management protocols.
Strengthening Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching nationwide initiatives to educate women and communities about cervical cancer prevention and the availability of new screening options.

When women have access to convenient, affordable options like HPV DNA self-testing, we're not just improving health outcomes – we're giving women control over their health decisions.” Says Dr Ntombi Sigwebela, Regional Director of FIND (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA)

The South African G20 Presidency is prioritizing health equity, solidarity and universal health coverage. Addressing the diagnostics gap for women's health is crucial to achieving this agenda and building an equitable and inclusive global health architecture.

For more information on FIND's Cervical Cancer Elimination Project, visit: FIND South Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FIND.

Watch our educational webinars:
FIND's YouTube Channel (https://apo-opa.co/3CwQXTx)

Contact details:
Beatrice Bernescut
Director, Communications
FIND
+41 (0) 79 963 86 78
www.FINDdx.org

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29 January 2025

Reconnecting nature with Rhian Berning

Location: News

Eden to Addo is an initiative to restore biodiversity and combat climate change by protecting over 55 000 hectares of land and creating interconnected corridors across South Africa's Garden Route. By addressing habitat fragmentation – one of the leading causes of biodiversity loss – Eden to Addo works to protect and restore natural ecosystems, enabling wildlife to thrive along ancient migratory pathways.

Focused on key areas like the Robberg Coastal Corridor, Keurbooms Corridor, Langkloof Corridor, and Springbokvlakte Corridor, the project supports farmers and landowners as biodiversity stewards, facilitating the declaration and management of protected areas.

Join us as we speak to Eden to Addo CEO Rhian Berning, an environmental scientist and educator with over 20 years of experience.
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26 January 2025

Cabinet Lekgotla to take place this week

Location: News

Cabinet Lekgotla to take place this week

The Cabinet Lekgotla will take place on 29 and 30 January 2025 at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, in Pretoria.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will convene the meeting which is expected to be attended by the leadership structures representing all spheres of government.

The outcomes of the meeting will chart a way forward for the year to be announced by the President during his State of the Nation Address (SONA).

This year’s SONA will be held on Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 19:00.

President Ramaphosa has requested the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, to convene a Joint Sitting of Parliament on this date.

During this sitting, to be held at the Cape Town City Hall, the President will deliver the first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of the seventh democratic Parliament.

“President Ramaphosa calls this joint sitting in accordance with Section 84(2)(d) of the Constitution and Rule 13(1)(a) of the Joint Rules of Parliament. The Constitution states that the President is responsible for summoning the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces or Parliament, to an extraordinary sitting to conduct special business.

“During SONA, the President highlights achievements, flags challenges, and outlines interventions for the coming financial year.

“This address marks the official start of the parliamentary programme and sets out the government's key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead,” Parliament said in a statement.

SONA 2025 will be broadcast live on Parliament TV on DSTV Channel 408 and on Parliament's YouTube Channel. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 01/26/2025 - 12:27

109 views

24 January 2025

President calls for joint sitting of Parliament to deliver SONA on 6 February

Location: News

President calls for joint sitting of Parliament to deliver SONA on 6 February

President Cyril Ramaphosa has requested the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, to convene a Joint Sitting of Parliament next month.

During this sitting, to be held at the Cape Town City Hall, the President will deliver the first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of the seventh democratic Parliament.

“During SONA, the President highlights achievements, flags challenges, and outlines interventions for the coming financial year.

“This address marks the official start of the parliamentary programme and sets out the government's key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead,” Parliament said.

This year’s SONA will be held on Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 19:00.

SONA 2025 will be broadcast live on Parliament TV on DSTV Channel 408 and on Parliament's YouTube Channel. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 10:04

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24 January 2025

To Ukraine and Back

Location: News

Last year, our team visited Ukraine as the country continued its seemingly endless war with invading Russian forces. We spent time in Kyiv and surrounds and travelled to the now-defunct Chernobyl nuclear power plant, the scene of a devastating explosion in 1986. And amid the chaos, we met interesting people with fascinating - often tragic - stories to tell.
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23 January 2025

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

Location: News

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

Social Media:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4asxXlM
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Visit us online at www.Afrobarometer.org
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 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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23 January 2025

Frozen Masterpiece

Location: News

Every northern hemisphere winter, designers from around the world converge to help build Sweden’s famous Ice Hotel. It’s an iconic project - a temporary architectural masterpiece that’s sculpted using little more than ice and snow and built in the most unforgiving conditions. South African designer Corban Warrington was among the lucky few given the chance to showcase their extraordinary skills as they brought life to this iconic structure. For the full story, get DStv Stream Premium: https://bit.ly/DStv-Stream
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22 January 2025

Stellenbosch Police Failures

Location: News

Late last year, a series of violent crimes targeting students saw us undertake an investigation in the university town of Stellenbosch. Our time there came just days after the brutal murder of a young man cycling home from campus. The incident was the latest in a crime wave that included several violent abductions – some of them caught on CCTV cameras placed around the town. Despite that evidence, police investigations have left a lot to be desired and questions are also being asked of the university’s role in helping to keep students safe. After the latest murder, we returned to Stellenbosch to get answers from the university and the police. Sadly, neither seemed keen on facing our cameras. For the full story, get DStv Stream Premium: https://bit.ly/DStv-Stream
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15 January 2025

Top matriculant Rayyan Ebrahim humbled by his achievement

Location: News

Top matriculant Rayyan Ebrahim humbled by his achievement

Top academic achiever in the country, 19-year-old Rayyan Ebrahim, from Pinelands High School in the Western Cape, has expressed overwhelming pride and gratitude for being able to bag that honour.

Brimming with excitement, Ebrahim was announced as the overall top achiever by Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, during the official release of the NSC results on Monday evening.

Ebrahim's stellar academic performance includes nine distinctions and an impressive aggregate of 97.57%. He achieved 99% in Further Studies Mathematics (Standard), 100% in Physical Science, 97% in Mathematics, Computer Applications Technology (CAT), and Afrikaans, as well as 98% in Accounting.

Pinelands High School celebrated Ebrahim’s accomplishments in a Facebook post, highlighting that he placed in the Top 1% of candidates for Further Studies Mathematics (FSM) Standard (Calculus and Algebra) in South Africa which is “a phenomenal achievement!”

The school said Further Studies Mathematics (FSM) is a rigorous academic subject administered by the IEB as part of the new IEB International Secondary Certificate and is certified separately from the NSC qualification.

He also obtained 95% A* in Further Studies Mathematics (Extended), Further Studies, 86% A in Mathematics – Matrices and Graph Theory and 99% A* in Further Studies: Mathematics Standard (Calculus & Algebra).

Speaking to SAnews, the top student described the moment his name was announced as surreal.

He said that when his name was announced he felt like he just didn't register what was happening, however he focused on going up to the stage in disbelief.

“I just felt so overwhelmed, and I was really in disbelief regarding the announcement of being the top achiever in the country. But yeah, I am just so humbled by the achievement, and so grateful to be recognised for my hard work,” he said.

Reflecting on his matric journey, Ebrahim admitted it was a challenging year, marked by high expectations and moments of self-doubt.

“My matric year was quite a tumultuous one. It was overwhelming at times and I tended to put a lot of pressure on myself to do well, and so I just had to constantly affirm myself that, you know, my best was good enough.

“I constantly just did my best and relied a lot on the support from my family and my friends who always wished me well and affirmed that I could do well,” he said.

Ebrahim explained that his study routine involved waking up early in the mornings to study, which is when he was the most productive. He also made use of online resources, like study guides, YouTube videos, for those concepts that he was struggling to understand.

“I also used to tutor my friends as well, in Maths during holidays. And we'd work through past papers together, and we would just brainstorm ideas and try to teach other new ways of approaching the problem,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ebrahim plans to study Data Science at the University of Cape Town. He is drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the field, which combines mathematics, programming, and statistics to extract insights from data.

He said that he chose the course because of his love for Maths and the fact that it is relevant to the needs of the country.

“I'm so excited about getting into a dynamic career field that is so relevant to the needs of South Africa. My love for Mathematics and its relevance to the country’s future inspired my choice,” he explained.

Advising the matric class of 2025, the student emphasised consistent effort and a balanced life for success.

“Matric is a very challenging year. It's very long and busy, but if you just work consistently throughout the year, and you stay on top of your work, and by the time you reach your final exam, you will be more than well prepared.

“I think it's important to live a balanced life while you're studying. So, there is always time to make for your family, or exercising and enjoy your matric year, while also getting the marks that you want,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 01/15/2025 - 15:24

70 views