Category: Africa Press Organisation – English

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

Despite the Western Cape Government subsidising holiday security at 436 schools over the June/July holidays, our schools have unfortunately once again been targeted by criminals during this period.

Incidents of burglary and vandalism were reported by 38 schools during the holidays, mainly concentrated in the metro education districts. Thankfully only one of the incidents was considered major.

Items stolen or damaged ranged from water piping to windows, cables to computers, fencing to fire safety equipment, stationery to security gates, and numerous other items. The cost of replacing and repairing these is still being calculated, and will divert funding away from the essential task of educating our learners.

While the number of schools reporting incidents is a decrease from the 42 schools affected in the same holiday period in 2022, the number of incidents remains unacceptably high, and negatively affects our children’s education.

Recently, the theft of water pipes at Crystal High School resulted in a large portion of the school being flooded, forcing the school to close temporarily.  An entire group of learners had their teaching and learning time disrupted, despite us being able to accommodate them at another school while the water was drained.

At a time when we are providing extra classes to get our children #BackOnTrack, we simply cannot afford to have normal teaching and learning time disrupted by criminals targeting school property.

Someone, somewhere, knows who the perpetrators of these crimes are.

Someone, somewhere, will be offered the goods stolen from our schools.

We appeal to the public to report any details about these crimes, not matter how small, to the South African Police Services (SAPS) immediately, so we can shut down the criminal economy that is preying on our schools.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

Merck Foundation (http://www.Merck-Foundation.com) to mark a milestone of providing 126 scholarships to doctors in 39 critical specialties during their annual Alumni Summit – Celebrating  their legacy of transforming patient care landscape in Zambia; Merck Foundation Zambia Alumni Summit and Merck Foundation Awards Ceremony 2023 were conducted in Zambia chaired by Zambia First Lady and Merck Foundation CEO, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej; Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej acknowledged Zambia First Lady for her great efforts as Ambassador of “More Than a Mother” Campaign; Merck Foundation CEO and Zambia First Lady announced the Call for Applications for 2 categories of 2023, that includes 8 Awards for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, Students, and new potential talents in these fields. They also awarded past Award Winners; Merck Foundation launched their first Animation Story “Sugar Free Jude” with the aim to promote healthy lifestyle and raising awareness on the early detection and prevention of Diabetes.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany met and awarded H.E. Mrs. MUTINTA HICHILEMA, The First Lady of Republic of Zambia for her efforts as the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” to build healthcare capacity, break infertility stigma, and support girl education in the country, during the Merck Foundation Zambia Alumni Summit and Awards Ceremony held in Lusaka.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign emphasized, “It was a great honor to meet my dear sister, H.E. The First Lady of Republic of Zambia and the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” to discuss our long-term partnership, celebrate our great achievements and mark an important milestone of success and impact of our programs. I am very happy to share that we have together provided 126 scholarships to Zambian doctors in 39 critical and underserved medical specialties like Diabetes, Endocrinology, Oncology, Fertility, Embryology, Gastroenterology, Respiratory Medicine, Cardiology, Clinical Psychiatry, Dermatology, Emergency and Resuscitation Medicine, Infectious diseases, Obesity and Weight Management, Pain Management and more.

I am also excited to share that we have provided scholarships to 21 young Zambian girls to help them to continue their education.

Moreover, we also launched Merck Foundation’s first animation story “Sugar Free Jude”. I am sure that our animation movie will prove to be very beneficial in promoting healthy lifestyle and raising awareness on the early detection and prevention of Diabetes, in a very entertaining way.”

H.E. Mrs. MUTINTA HICHILEMA, The First Lady of Republic of Zambia and the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “I am very happy to meet and welcome Merck Foundation CEO and her team in our country. We have made a significantly progress in a very short time. Together, we are transforming the patient care in the country by building healthcare capacity by providing 126 scholarships to our local doctors. It is a history in the making.

Moreover, I am very happy that through Merck Foundation Educating Linda program we are supporting girl educating by providing 21 scholarships to young Zambian girls to cover their tuition fees of nursing schools and health sciences universities. This program is very close to my heart and very important pillar of my office strategy, as I strongly believe in girl education which faces many challenges, and also women education specially in science and technology where they are under-represented.”

Out of the total 126 scholarships provided in Zambia, Merck Foundation has provided 46 scholarships to doctors for Fertility, Embryology and Sexual & Reproductive Medicine.

51 scholarships have been provided for Diabetes, Cardiology, Endocrinology and Obesity & Weight Management. After completion of the course, these doctors will be able to establish diabetes or hypertension clinics their Health Centre or Hospital with the aim to help prevent and manage the disease in their own communities.

10 scholarships have been provided to Zambian doctors for Oncology. Merck Foundation and The First Lady of Zambia are together transforming the cancer care in the country.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has also provided 19 scholarships to Zambian doctors for other critical and underserved specialties like Gastroenterology, Respiratory, Clinical Psychiatry, Dermatology in Clinical Practice, Pain Management, Respiratory Medicine, Emergency & Resuscitation Medicine, and Infectious diseases.

Merck Foundation CEO and The First Lady of Zambia also met and acknowledged the Merck Foundation Alumni and Winners of their awards, from Zambia.

Senator, Rasha Kelej said, “It was a pleasure meeting and acknowledging our Merck Foundation Alumni who graduated to become the future healthcare experts of Zambia. It was also lovely meeting and acknowledging Merck Foundation Media and Fashion Awards 2022. We also met our past winners. All winners are our health and social champions.”

Moreover, Merck Foundation Health Media Training was also held for the journalists, to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift with the aim to address wide range of social and health issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels; to underscore the importance of Empowering Girls and Women in Education and to understand the Influence of infertility stigma and other social issues like GBV, Child Marriage, FGM etc. on women and couples – Social and Psychological Impact. Apart from this, the media training also included a session on the importance of increasing the awareness of early detection and prevention of Diabetes and Hypertension. The training session was addressed by prominent Medical and Media Experts.

Moreover, Merck Foundation CEO together and The First Lady of Zambia launched and signed together four children’s storybooks titled: “Jackline’s Rescue” to emphasize on the importance of empowering girls through education, “Not Who You Are” to teach boys to love and respect their future wives and eliminate domestic violence, “Ride into the Future” to emphasize on the importance of empowering girls through education and “Sugar free Jude” to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness on the early detection and prevention of Diabetes. Thousands of  copies of these storybooks are going to be distributed to school students of Zambia.

Winners from Zambia in partnership with The First Lady of Zambia, H.E. MUTINTA HICHILEMA & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” are:

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards 2022

• Jessie Ngoma, Times of Zambia (Print – Second Position)
• Muuba Gabriel Josias, Radio Musi-O-Tunya (Radio – Second Position)
• Eva Hatontola Chanda, Radio Christian Voice (Online – Second Position)
• Lucy Nambela,  Capital FM (Radio – Third Position)
• Henry Ngosa,  Prime Television Zambia (Multimedia – First Position)
• Mushota Mpundu, Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) (Multimedia – Second Position)

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Fashion Awards 2022

• Chanda Chola

Merck Foundation “Diabetes & Hypertension” Fashion Awards 2022

• Nelly Banda
• Chewe Manase

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards 2021

• Eva Hatontola Chanda, Radio Christian Voice (Online – Third Position)
• Prudence Chibale Siabana, Radio Phoenix (Radio – First Position)

Merck Foundation “Mask Up with Care” Media Recognition Awards 2021

• Effie M. Mphande, Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (Multimedia – FIRST Position)
• Prudence Chibale Siabana, Radio Phoenix (Radio – FIRST Position)

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Fashion Awards 2021

• Kasonde Makangila
• Gibstar Makangila jr

Merck Foundation “Make Your Own Mask” Fashion Awards 2021

• Tepwanji Mpetemoya & Mwiche Songolo
• Linda Ngwira

The following winners of past editions of Merck Foundation Awards were recognized:

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards 2020

• Jessie Ngoma –Simengwa, Times of Zambia (Print – FIRST Position)
• Effie Mphande, Zambia Broadcasting Corporation Radio (Multimedia – FIRST Position)
• Josias Muuba, Radio Musi-O-Tunya (Radio – FIRST Position)

Merck Foundation “Stay at Home” Media Recognition Awards 2020

• Henry Sinyangwe – Zambia Daily Mail (Print – FIRST Position)
• Violet Mengo – Zambia Daily Mail (Print – SECOND Position)
• Prudence Siabana – Radio Phoenix (Radio– THIRD Position)

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Fashion Awards 2020

• Nelly Banda
• Ruth Chimbala
• Cecilia Njobvu
• Linda Ngwira
• Naomi Soko
• Gibstar Makangila
• Kasonde Makangila

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards 2019

• Ngoma –Simengwa, Times of Zambia (Print)
• Regina Kalinde, Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (Multimedia)

Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Fashion Awards 2019

• Kasonde Nkole
• Varinder Kaur Virdy
• Gibstar Makanglia
• Kasonde Makanglia
• Chimwemwe Kalirani     
• Saandime Shisholeka  

Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Zambia for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields. Details of the awards below:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2023: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30^th September 2023. Click here (https://apo-opa.info/40MAi5e) to view more details.

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2023:

All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30^th September 2023. Click here (https://apo-opa.info/3zDx1sW) to view more details.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2023: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30^th September 2023. Click here (https://apo-opa.info/3nVDAoj) to view more details.

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2023 All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30^th September 2023. Click here (https://apo-opa.info/3ZKyUi9) to view more details.

5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2023 “Diabetes & Hypertension”:

Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention & early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30^th October 2023. Click here (https://apo-opa.info/40yUJTn) to view more details.

6. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2023 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30^th October 2023. Click here (https://apo-opa.info/43c8poX) to view more details.

7. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2023 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30^th October 2023. Click here (https://apo-opa.info/41dRh0l) to view more details.

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2023 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30^th October 2023. Click here (https://apo-opa.info/3KDU38v) to view more details.

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to: submit@merck-foundation.com

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

The Western Cape Cabinet today agreed to proceed with applying to the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) to have a provincial disaster declared due to damages suffered from the severe weather which affected the province from 14 to 19 June 2023.

Cabinet was presented with a consolidated damage report compiled by the Department of Local Government, Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning said today.

After taking into account insured damages, damages not associated with the flooding, and the ability to reprioritise funding within existing budgets, unfunded damages have been calculated to be R703.3million, according to the cabinet report.  

“The declaration of a provincial disaster by the NDMC will allow us to approach the National Government for funding support, as the scope of damages are beyond the ability of the provincial fiscus, “Minister Bredell said.

 Unfunded agricultural damage of R500million is the largest amount, and of great concern to the province. The Department of Agriculture has reprioritised R18.6million to assist the sector. Commenting on the WC Cabinet’s decision to request the NDMC to declare a Provincial Disaster Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer said: “During my oversight visits to parts of the West Coast, Cape Winelands, Overberg, I gained first-hand knowledge of the devasting impact the floods had on our rural communities.  The damage to agriculture irrigation, fencing, orchards, vineyards, crops as well as the damage caused by the removal of sediment upstream and which was later deposited downstream in the rivers and riparian zone was extensive.  The decision to approach the national government is therefore welcomed.”

Unfunded damages to provincial infrastructure have been calculated to be R18.8million.  The Department of Infrastructure has reprioritised R4.6million from its appropriated budget for the 2023/24 financial year to address immediate repairs to critical infrastructure.  Minister Tertius Simmers emphasized the importance of requesting the classification of a provincial state of disaster.  “The aftermath of the devastation of the floods still lingers and is there for all to see. Although we were able to reconnect our towns and reopen parts of our roads within days of the floods, the declaration of a state of disaster will assist in accelerating the economic recovery. The restoration of infrastructure will enable a seamless movement of goods and services to market as well as enable the commute of residents.  As a province that exports more than 50% of the country’s agriculture products, we must ensure that our infrastructure enables the sector to operate optimally. This will further ensure that the stature of the infrastructure is preserved and help mitigate future erosion.”

Unfunded damages to municipal infrastructure, after reprioritised budgets were taken into consideration was calculated to be R21.5million. This includes damages of R4.4million in Overstrand, R1.4million in Theewaterskloof, R350 000 in Swartland, R8million in Cederberg, R435 000 in Drakenstein, R5.6million in Stellenbosch and R1.4million in the City of Cape Town.

Minister Bredell said although the province should be grateful that our dams are full due to the heavy and widespread rain this winter, the flood damages should also be seen in the context of climate change and the understanding that future flooding and droughts will be of a more intense nature. “When we rebuild from this disaster, we need to ensure our planning and design is with our eyes on the future. Well maintained ecosystems, such as catchments and river courses that are clear of alien vegetation allows for better water retention, less erosion, and free flowing rivers that prevents expensive damage to infrastructure or possible loss of life.”

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) raises a dire warning about the escalating food crisis in the Sudan. As conflict and economic decline continue to ravage the country, urgent and intensified humanitarian support for rural communities is urgently needed.

According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase (IPC) projections, over 20.3 million people, representing more than 42 percent of the population in the country, are experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 or above) between July and September 2023. Compared to the results from the last IPC analysis conducted in May 2022, the number of highly food insecure people has nearly doubled.

With 14 million people facing Crisis (IPC Phase 3) and nearly 6.3 million people facing Emergency (IPC Phase 4) levels of acute hunger, the situation is critical. The states most severely affected are grappling with active conflict, including Khartoum, South and West Kordofan, and Central, East, South and West Darfur, where over half of the population is facing acute hunger.

The violence has resulted in the large-scale displacement of over 2.6 million people across the country and forced over 700 000 individuals to seek refuge in neighboring countries. Critical infrastructure, including healthcare facilities, power sources, and telecommunications, has suffered significant damage, further exacerbating food insecurity and malnutrition. Market disruptions and soaring food prices have compounded the population’s struggle to access essential goods and services.

FAO’s Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa, Abdulhakim Elwaer, expressed his deep concern about the situation, stating, “The conflict has had devastating consequences on the food and nutrition security and well-being of millions of people. Families are facing unimaginable suffering, and it is vital that FAO is stepping in to support more than 1 million farmers this season to produce enough food for Sudanese people.”

FAO’s response

FAO’s response to the crisis has been swift and comprehensive. Despite the complex security conditions, the Organization has procured 8 840 tonnes of cereal (sorghum and millet) and okra seed, reaching more than half million farming households across the country with the support of the Government of the United States of America, Norway, Germany and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Central Emergency Response Fund. The emergency seed distribution campaign aims to expand to reach up to 1 million farmers in time for the planting season, ensuring sufficient cereal production to cover the needs of up to 19 million people for a year.

With the support of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), FAO became the first UN agency to reach West Kordofan since the conflict began. This milestone has facilitated access to North, East, and South Darfur, allowing FAO to broaden its assistance to vulnerable communities.

FAO’s efforts to combat the food crisis are hampered by limited resources. The Organization urgently requires USD 65 million to reach 1 255 000 vulnerable households (almost 6.3 million people) and provide agropastoral households with quality seeds and training for the 2023 winter and 2024 summer farming seasons; restore and improve access to milk for pastoral households; protect the livestock assets of vulnerable households through animal vaccinations; and provide fishing gear and equipment to support the livelihoods of vulnerable fishing households.

Looking ahead

The projections for the upcoming period from October 2023 to February 2024 paint a concerning picture, with around 15 million people likely to face IPC Phase 3 or above levels of acute food insecurity— the highest recorded figure coinciding with the country’s harvesting season. Greater Darfur, Greater Kordofan, and Khartoum State are expected to be the regions with the highest number of people in IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) and 4 (Emergency). During this period, millet and sorghum harvests are expected to increase slightly, which will help replenish household stocks, improve livestock health, and enhance milk production. However, this improvement may not be sufficient to meet the growing food needs, especially in states heavily reliant on rain-fed agriculture. The high cost of agricultural inputs (seeds, tools, fertilizer), labour and disrupted agricultural activities are threatening crop production and exacerbating the food crisis.

“We remain committed to supporting rural families in the Sudan during these challenging times. But this crucial work cannot be sustained without timely resources. Agriculture is a lifeline; and as the main agriculture season begins, urgent action is required to prevent further deterioration of the food security situation and to save lives and livelihoods,” said Hongjie Yang, FAO Representative in the Sudan.

FAO is on the frontlines working with local partners and the humanitarian community to provide lifesaving assistance to vulnerable rural communities in the Sudan.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

Responding to the publication of the FCDO’s ODA Equality Impact Assessment by the IDC, International Rescue Committee UK Executive Director, Laura Kyrke-Smith, said,

“The Government’s own assessment of the impact of reductions to its aid budget confirms what we already know: cuts have serious consequences for the most vulnerable and marginalized people in the world.

The International Rescue Committee has seen this firsthand in Sierra Leone, where our long-running programme to develop Sierra Leone’s health system was cut by 60% since 2021. In 14 hospitals and 92 community health centres, UK government support was reducing the number of preventable deaths, including women who die in childbirth. 3 million people were being supported. One of the leading causes of death in childbirth is hemorrhaging, and thanks to our work 84% of hospitals had sufficient blood stock to save women who experience this (up from 33% when the programme started in 2018). This means more women are now at risk of dying.

Britain should take great pride that its support has enabled IRC to save lives in Sierra Leone. But it has been in the UK’s interest too. For example, Covid taught us that infectious diseases aren’t contained by national borders. In a country prone to infectious diseases, a stronger health system is good not just for Sierra Leone but for the world.

Today’s stocktake of suffering must act as a wake-up call to the Chancellor: curb the diversion of foreign aid towards domestic refugee costs, set out a path to reinstate the aid budget in full, and make sure it reaches those in fragile and conflict-affected countries most at risk of being left behind.”

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

The Special Representative of the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), Ms. Bintou Keita, has concluded a two-week mission in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where she consulted with provincial governments and communities on priority actions needed for a smooth yet accelerated transition process.

The tour began in Goma on 11 July and then moved to Bukavu, Uvira, Bunia and finally concluded in Beni.  Ms Keita met with the Governors of North Kivu, South Kivu and then Ituri provinces, as well as territorial and municipal administration authorities, civil society, and non-governmental organizations. The field trip also included visits to MONUSCO bases, internally displaced persons sites, including Lala, which suffered an attack in mid-June, resulting in 46 deaths.

The Special Representative’s mission to the field comes in the context of the development of a special report by the UN Secretary-General as stipulated in resolution 2666 of 20 December 2022. In the resolution, the Security Council requested the Secretary-General to provide options for adapting MONUSCO’s configuration of its civilian, police and military components in the DRC and the United Nations’ future configuration in the DRC beyond MONUSCO’s current mandate once the joint review of the Transition Plan for MONUSCO is concluded and no later than July 2023. The options should take into consideration MONUSCO’s role with respect to the East Africa Community (EAC) Regional Force and other existing international, regional, and bilateral initiatives in support of the DRC.

“The last mile in peace operations is the hardest. By listening to the people, we are committed to protecting, and consulting with close partners working in the field, we can ensure a responsible drawdown,” said Ms Keita.

In September 2021, a joint transition plan was adopted by the Government of the DRC and MONUSCO and by June 2022, the Mission had reduced its field of operation for United Nations Peacekeepers to three provinces from six in 2020. However, following the request by His Excellency President Felix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo that MONUSCO draw down after the elections in December 2023, the organization has accelerated the pace of its transition process. In the three provinces where it is still present, the Mission has identified 13 priority territories out of the country’s 145 territories, where insecurity is high causing significant challenges to the protection of civilians and requiring sustained attention jointly by the national security forces and MONUSCO troops. In Djugu territory alone, MONUSCO currently provides physical protection to more than 100,000 internally displaced persons through its four Temporary Operating Bases in Bayoo, Fataki, Rhoo and Gina and Standing Combat Deployments (SCD) in Drodro and Amee.

“2024 is the year of transition, where the Mission will increasingly transfer its responsibilities including in terms of protection of civilians to the Government of the DRC, “said Ms Keita. “We are working with authorities to ensure that national capacities will address the minimum-security requirements to allow for a responsible drawdown in areas where MONUSCO currently protects civilians. We are also leveraging the expertise and resources of the United Nations agencies, funds, and programmes to intensify their efforts in accompanying the Government to implement national plans in support of development and humanitarian needs.”

MONUSCO as part of its protection of civilians mandate also continues to support the DRC government in its efforts to strengthen its justice system, the capacity and presence of the national police and the implementation of its Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration programme as well as Security Sector Reform.

Insecurity places a heavy burden on women and girls and Ms Keita engaged actively with their representatives and leaders at every stop on her tour. In 2022, MONUSCO documented nearly 700 cases of conflict-related sexual violence affecting women and girls, but many in incidents remain undocumented and the numbers are likely to be much higher. Women candidates in the upcoming elections also shared their concerns about the harassment and threats they face regularly.

“As a grandmother and mother, I am committed to amplifying the voices of women and to recognizing the immense contributions Congolese women have made to resolving conflicts in their communities,” said Ms Keita. “I am also encouraged to see the enthusiasm of women candidates in the upcoming elections. MONUSCO is committed to gender parity in all aspects of public life.”

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

Honoring a rare invitation as Special Guest at the 63rd Independence anniversary of Republic of Benin, Tuesday, in Cotonou, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the commonality of cultures, history and demographics of both countries will be explored to the advantage of citizens.

President Tinubu, who was invited by the President of the neighboring country, Patrice Talon, noted that the proximity of the two countries, and similarity in economy, and outlook on development, makes it compulsory to collectively pursue same goal of growth, and elevating the populace, particularly the youths.

“Nigeria and Benin Republic are conjoined twins. We are joined from one stomach. In every aspect, we are one and we share much in common,’’ he said, during an interaction with journalists.

The President said the vision of political and economic stability of Nigeria and Benin can only be realized by working together, assuring that the partnership will be strengthened and upscaled at various levels.

President Tinubu thanked Talon for the honor, and for also inviting six Nigerian governors, who graced the occasion. The governors are: Ogun, Dapo Abiodun; Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Oyo, Seyi Makinde; Kwara, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq; Kebbi, Nasir Idris, and Niger, Mohammed Umar Bago.

In his remarks, President Talon said the historic invitation of having another leader at the country’s independence celebration was to show high respect for President Tinubu, following his track record of providing leadership in Nigeria, and the West Coast.

“I want to really appreciate President Tinubu for honoring our invitation to participate in our 63rd anniversary. It is not a normal practice to invite a foreign leader for independence celebration, but this signals the constructive and positive relationship we have enjoyed, and more benefits to come,’’ the Beninese leader added.

Apart from the shared border, President Talon noted that Nigeria and Benin have stayed together over many years as a family, and the good relationship should be encouraged among citizens.

President Tinubu returned to Nigeria after the Independence event.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

The DFA Office of the Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs (OUCSCA) and the Department’s Youth Outreach partner, the Diplomatic League of the Philippines (or D League), co-organized on 30 June 2023 the Diplomatic League Conference 2023 in partnership with the Cavite State University’s International Studies Students’ Association (CavSU-ISSA).

The whole-day event, entitled, “Fostering Cavite Diplomacy Through Young Caviteños” aimed to inspire college-level students from several universities based in Cavite to enter into careers in diplomacy. The DFA’s strong support for the conference could be seen from the high and mid-level representation of its officials to the event, led by OUCSCA Undersecretary, Hon. Jesus Gary S. Domingo. The Undersecretary was joined by three women Foreign Service Officers, all of whom had been able to serve for many years at various Philippine Embassies abroad. Ms. Christina Rola-Mckernan served at the Philippine Embassies in Belgium and France, Ms. Judy Razon served at the Philippine Embassy in Israel and Ms. Maria Christina Cecelia Hernandez at the Philippine Embassy in Libya.

Apart from sharing with conference participants their own professional and personal journeys as Philippine diplomats, the DFA representatives had elaborated on key concepts in the conduct of diplomacy. Undersecretary Domingo provided an overview on Philippine Foreign Policy and Cultural Diplomacy. Other subjects tackled were Gender and Development in Public Diplomacy and Careers in Diplomacy.

Other speakers included officers of D League, namely Mr. Ervine Jules Sape (Director for Internal Affairs) and Ms. Angelita Bonsilao (Youth Lead Coordinator), who shared more about the organization’s activities with various universities throughout the Philippines and some overseas. Professor Gil Ramos, from Cavite State University, spoke more about the significance of Cavite and Filipinos of Cavite in Philippine history.

Towards the latter part of the day, groups from three different universities in Cavite had made their respective presentations on stage, before the panel composed of the DFA and D League representatives, on their views on how to help address UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 5: Gender Equality and Women Empowerment. The panel had provided experience-based insights on how to enrich the very promising projects presented.

The Diplomatic League (D League) is the first and leading global diplomacy organization based in the Philippines. D League prides itself as the primary institution for developing diplomacy as a practice in the sector of the youth. From its founding of 7 member universities, the membership has now grown to 20 and continues to expand. D League has also successfully established a presence in the United States, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. 

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

A race against time has begun in the world’s newest nation, South Sudan, as it looks toward completing its democratic transition by holding free, fair, and credible elections in December 2024.

Despite the clock ticking down, foundational tasks necessary for South Sudanese to head to the ballot boxes without further delays remain incomplete.

Intercommunal violence, too, continues to surge coupled with increasing pressure on scarce resources, as tens of thousands continue to enter the country through border areas, fleeing fighting in neighbouring Sudan.

Against this backdrop of multiple challenges, Nicholas Haysom, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) briefed members of the press today in the capital city, Juba.

“With only 17 months remaining on the Roadmap timelines before elections in 2024, I repeat what I had said in an earlier press conference, that 2023 is a ‘make or break’ year,” said the top UN official.  

“Key decisions and actions must be made now have to be made to pave the way for holding peaceful, inclusive, and credible elections next year.”

Chief among these, according to SRSG Haysom, is the need to reconstitute three essential bodies, namely, the National Constitutional Review Commission, the National Elections Commission, and the Political Parties Council; finalize transitional security arrangements; progress the permanent constitution-making process; and create civic and political spaces where every citizen is free to debate and engage on the political and constitutional options South Sudan is facing, without fear.

“Simply holding elections is not enough – the credibility, transparency and inclusivity of the process is what brings legitimacy. This includes that political parties must be able to register and campaign freely; a civil society that will serve as extended arms for civic education and act as observer watchdog of the process. It includes a media that can report on the process and give space to the variety of voices and opinions for voters to make informed choices,” stated the SRSG.

In this regard, Mr Haysom reiterated UNMISS’ ongoing support, upon request by the Government of South Sudan, to electoral and constitution-making processes together with regional partners such as the African Union and IGAD. 

Critically, the Head of UNMISS highlighted the impact of the Sudan crisis on South Sudan.

“The war in Sudan dominates regional and global attention, while South Sudan bears a share of the crisis. Food prices have increased, lowering the ability of vulnerable households access food and meet basic requirements, while reduced cross-border trade has led to localized scarcity of food commodities,” he said.

As per latest counts, some 190,000 entrants have been recorded, the overwhelming majority of whom are South Sudanese, revealed SRSG Haysom.

Given rising numbers, the humanitarian community has called for urgent funding to be able to provide onward transportation from border areas for people seeking refuge from the Sudan conflict.

Worryingly, there is a clear and present danger of potential violence, given the daily influx of people.

“The congestion and increased competition over scarce resources could exacerbate existing inter-communal tensions between the returnees and host communities and between some of the returnee communities and this needs to be averted. UNMISS has intensified patrols and reinforced its military presence in Renk to mitigate and prevent any outbreak of violence,” stated the Head of the UN Peacekeeping mission.

Additionally, Mr Haysom spoke about the mission’s ongoing efforts to protect civilians in and around Malakal, Upper Nile, where the impact of last month’s clashes in the UN Protection Site on communities is still palpable; it’s proactive response to reported escalations in Jonglei and Greater Pibor; and warned of continued cattle-related conflict in the Equatorias.

In conclusion, Mr. Haysom highlighted the pressing need within South Sudan to deepen mutual trust between communities and their leaders, build common purpose and a shared vision of the future.

“I believe there will be international willingness to support the peace process and the elections if there are demonstrable actions by the principal stakeholders in those elections and the right frameworks to allow for the receipt of such assistance. But key decisions about electoral, constitutional and security structures must be made urgently; and these decisions do not require special additional resources. Success in this area will persuade donors and international partners that a peaceful and secure South Sudan is a viable place for investment and support.”

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English

In celebration of World Breastfeeding Week 2023, the Ministry of Health’s division of Nutrition and Dietetics Services today conducted a sensitization program aimed at all government ministries. The central focus of the program was to tackle the vital issue of workplace support for breastfeeding parents.

During the meeting, the main objective was to raise awareness among all government ministries about the significance of providing workplace support to breastfeeding parents.

Additionally, the participants discussed potential strategies and plans for the effective implementation of support measures. This initiative highlights the ministry’s commitment to promoting a supportive and inclusive environment for working parents, ultimately benefiting the well-being of both parents and their children.