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MIL-OSI: Byline Bank Included in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Companies to Work For

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CHICAGO, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Byline Bank is proud to announce its inclusion on U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 list of the Best Companies to Work For. This list, released annually by the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, ranks companies by how well they support employees. This year, Byline Bank earned recognition in three categories: Best Companies in the U.S. overall, Best Companies in the Midwest, and Best in Finance and Insurance.

“At Byline, we believe that when you take care of your people, you create a dynamic workplace environment where employees are engaged and committed to serving the needs of our customers and communities,” said Dana Rose, Chief Human Resources Officer at Byline Bank. “This recognition reflects our commitment to creating a workplace where every employee feels valued, supported and empowered to grow alongside the business. I am so proud of the culture we have built here and want to thank our incredible employees for making Byline such a great place to work.”

The U.S. News rankings reflect the evolving criteria that workers consider when evaluating employers, including compensation and benefits, work-life balance and flexibility, job and company stability, physical and psychological comfort, a sense of belonging and esteem, and opportunities for career growth and development.

“Workers understand the direct impact of a workplace on their quality of life,” said Carly Chase, Vice President of Careers at U.S. News & World Report. “The 2025-2026 list recognizes companies that received high scores on multiple metrics that make up a positive work environment and everyday employee experience.”

To compile its annual list, U.S. News considered the 5,000 largest publicly traded companies as of January 2025, each with more than 75 Glassdoor reviews from 2021-2025. Employee sentiment data was analyzed alongside regulatory data from partners Revelio Labs, Good Jobs First’s Violation Tracker and QUODD to assess performance across six key metrics.

This marks the second consecutive year Byline has been named one of the Best Companies to Work For in the Midwest, and the first year the bank has been recognized on both the National and Finance and Insurance industry lists.

For more information on the Best Companies to Work For, visit the U.S. News FAQs and follow along on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) using #BCTWF.

About Byline Bank
Headquartered in Chicago, Byline Bank, a subsidiary of Byline Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE:BY), is a full-service commercial bank serving small- and medium-sized businesses, financial sponsors and consumers. Byline Bank operates over 40 branch locations throughout the Chicago and Milwaukee metropolitan areas. Byline Bank offers a broad range of commercial and community banking products and services, including small-ticket equipment leasing solutions, and is one of the top U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lenders according to the national SBA rankings by volume FY2024. Byline Bank is a member of FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. Visit bylinebank.com for more information, and follow Byline Bank on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or Instagram for the latest news and updates.

About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.

Media Contact:
Allison Roche
Marketing Communications & Partnerships Manager
Byline Bank
aroche@bylinebank.com

Investor Contact:
Brooks Rennie
Investor Relations Director
Byline Bank
(312) 660-5805
brennie@bylinebank.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2cc1c4c0-b441-4169-971d-a4e7f2b9794c

The MIL Network –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: Byline Bank Included in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Companies to Work For

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CHICAGO, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Byline Bank is proud to announce its inclusion on U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 list of the Best Companies to Work For. This list, released annually by the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, ranks companies by how well they support employees. This year, Byline Bank earned recognition in three categories: Best Companies in the U.S. overall, Best Companies in the Midwest, and Best in Finance and Insurance.

“At Byline, we believe that when you take care of your people, you create a dynamic workplace environment where employees are engaged and committed to serving the needs of our customers and communities,” said Dana Rose, Chief Human Resources Officer at Byline Bank. “This recognition reflects our commitment to creating a workplace where every employee feels valued, supported and empowered to grow alongside the business. I am so proud of the culture we have built here and want to thank our incredible employees for making Byline such a great place to work.”

The U.S. News rankings reflect the evolving criteria that workers consider when evaluating employers, including compensation and benefits, work-life balance and flexibility, job and company stability, physical and psychological comfort, a sense of belonging and esteem, and opportunities for career growth and development.

“Workers understand the direct impact of a workplace on their quality of life,” said Carly Chase, Vice President of Careers at U.S. News & World Report. “The 2025-2026 list recognizes companies that received high scores on multiple metrics that make up a positive work environment and everyday employee experience.”

To compile its annual list, U.S. News considered the 5,000 largest publicly traded companies as of January 2025, each with more than 75 Glassdoor reviews from 2021-2025. Employee sentiment data was analyzed alongside regulatory data from partners Revelio Labs, Good Jobs First’s Violation Tracker and QUODD to assess performance across six key metrics.

This marks the second consecutive year Byline has been named one of the Best Companies to Work For in the Midwest, and the first year the bank has been recognized on both the National and Finance and Insurance industry lists.

For more information on the Best Companies to Work For, visit the U.S. News FAQs and follow along on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) using #BCTWF.

About Byline Bank
Headquartered in Chicago, Byline Bank, a subsidiary of Byline Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE:BY), is a full-service commercial bank serving small- and medium-sized businesses, financial sponsors and consumers. Byline Bank operates over 40 branch locations throughout the Chicago and Milwaukee metropolitan areas. Byline Bank offers a broad range of commercial and community banking products and services, including small-ticket equipment leasing solutions, and is one of the top U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lenders according to the national SBA rankings by volume FY2024. Byline Bank is a member of FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. Visit bylinebank.com for more information, and follow Byline Bank on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or Instagram for the latest news and updates.

About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.

Media Contact:
Allison Roche
Marketing Communications & Partnerships Manager
Byline Bank
aroche@bylinebank.com

Investor Contact:
Brooks Rennie
Investor Relations Director
Byline Bank
(312) 660-5805
brennie@bylinebank.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2cc1c4c0-b441-4169-971d-a4e7f2b9794c

The MIL Network –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: Alectra supports new emergency shelter for Barrie youth with $25,000 donation to Youth Haven

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alectra Inc. is contributing $25,000 to support Youth Haven’s capital campaign to build a new emergency shelter for vulnerable youth in downtown Barrie.

“We are deeply grateful to Alectra for their generous support of Youth Haven. Their contribution plays a vital role in providing safety, shelter, and hope to vulnerable youth in our community,” said Lucy Gowers, Executive Director, Youth Haven. “More than an act of generosity, it represents a meaningful investment in building brighter futures. Thank you for believing in our mission and for helping create lasting, positive change in the lives of the youth we serve. Thank you for choosing to be the difference!”

The campaign, led by Youth Haven and supported by the Simcoe County Home Builders’ Association (SCHBA), aims to replace the current shelter, which is aging and no longer meets the needs of the community. The new facility will provide safe, supportive and accessible emergency housing for youth aged 16 to 24, who face homelessness or housing insecurity across Simcoe County.

Construction began in November 2024 at the existing site, with SCHBA members and community partners contributing skilled labour, materials and donations to complete the rebuild within four weeks.

“Alectra continues to show what it means to be a true community partner. Their generous support of Youth Haven’s new emergency shelter will have a lasting impact on the lives of young people in Barrie and across Simcoe County,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall, City of Barrie. “We’re grateful for their commitment to making a meaningful difference where it’s needed most.”

Alectra’s contribution is part of its AlectraCARES community support program, which helps fund vital services, shelters, and programs that address social needs and promote youth well-being.

“At Alectra, we believe in building stronger, more resilient communities, and that starts with supporting youth who are facing some of life’s toughest challenges,” said Brian Bentz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alectra Inc. “Youth Haven provides a critical lifeline for young people in Simcoe County, and we’re proud to support the creation of a safe, welcoming space where they can access the care and stability they deserve.”

Youth Haven offers emergency shelter, transitional housing, outreach services, and life-skills programs to youth across Simcoe County. The new shelter will enhance the organization’s ability to provide trauma-informed care, counselling and wraparound support services.

To learn more or contribute to the campaign, visit: www.youthhaven.ca.

About Alectra Inc. Family of Companies

Serving more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is now the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions.

Media Contact:
Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson
ashley.trgachef@alectrautilities.com | Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1.833.MEDIA-LN

An image accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6886197e-f1c5-44ee-ac65-636040213465

The MIL Network –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Jobless young South Africans often lose hope: new study proves the power of mentorship
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Lauren Graham, Professor at the Centre for Social Development in Africa, University of Johannesburg, University of Johannesburg

More than a third of young South Africans are not in employment, education or training. This cohort of 3.4 million (37.1% of those aged 15–24) risks long-term joblessness. Discouragement – giving up looking for work – is also a risk, as the latest data show.

This has serious social and economic implications. Social and economic exclusion can lead to declining mental health, social drift, long-term dependence on grants and lost economic potential.

To help break this cycle, a research team we were part of piloted a Basic Package of Support programme that offered personalised coaching and referrals to services to tackle the barriers young people face. Between 2022 and 2024 we worked with 1,700 young people in three of South Africa’s nine provinces – Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. The team worked in peri-urban areas where there were high rates of young people not in education, employment or training.

The initiative aimed to help young people clarify their goals and find pathways into relevant learning and earning an income.

The results of the programme showed improved mental health, reduced distress and a stronger sense of belonging. The findings show the power of targeted and multifaceted support to prevent social drift.

The programme and its participants

The pilot took place in three peri-urban communities with limited job and learning opportunities, and high rates of poverty and unemployment. We chose these areas for their high rates of young people who are not in education, employment or training.

Over half of the participants (51%) were aged 18-20, 43% were 21-24 and just under 6% were aged 25-27. While 51% had completed high school, 30% had grade 9-11, and under 2% had less than grade 9. A further 17% held a university degree. Most (77%) had been actively seeking work, or opportunities in training or volunteering (73%), when they started the programme.

Data were collected at intake and after three sessions. A monitoring survey after each coaching session was used to determine whether the participant was in any earning or learning opportunity.

The qualitative component included in-depth interviews with young people who had completed multiple coaching sessions. Interviews were conducted six to eight months after pilot sites were opened to explore participants’ situations, experiences of coaching, and any shifts in perspective.

The primary objective of this pilot phase was to assess the programme’s capability to:
- engage and support disconnected young people
- achieve anticipated outcomes, including improved sense of belonging, wellbeing and connection to learning or earning opportunities.
In general, feelings of being supported and having access to resources in their community were low among the participants: 18.33% reported having had low levels of support in general, from adults and from peers. Young men reported considerably higher access to peer support than women (9% of men rated peer support as low relative to 24% of women).

One-third of young people reported a lack of access to, or availability of, resources in their community. These resources included health, psychosocial, or training resources.

Changes in well-being and mental health

Emotional wellbeing and psychosocial factors are critical precursors to engagement in the labour market. Having a sense of control, positive sense of self-esteem, and future orientation promote resilience, which is critical to searching for and taking up opportunities.

Research has also shown that spending a long time without learning or earning creates disillusionment and poor mental health, creating a cycle of chronic unemployment and social drift.

For these reasons we felt it was important to examine how the young people’s well-being had changed as they progressed through the programme. The programme involved:
- reaching out to young people
- conducting an assessment to understand where they wanted to go and the barriers they faced
- coaching sessions
- referrals to relevant services to overcome barriers
- opportunites to take steps towards their planned objectives.
The research team saw positive changes in all emotional well-being indicators, including quality of life, anxiety, emotional distress, and sense of belonging. Participants also showed an interest in taking up available training and work opportunities. They showed improvements in the three key outcomes we examined for this pilot phase.

Firstly, participants felt supported, were more resilient, and had better mental health outcomes than before they completed three coaching sessions.

Secondly, they showed increased capacity, knowledge and resources to navigate and access the systems and services needed to realise their aspirations.

Thirdly, 40% of them took up available opportunities to learn and earn income after just three coaching sessions. Larger numbers of these young people connected to training or education opportunities than to job opportunities. This is hardly surprising in the context of low job growth.

Taken together, these findings showed that the young people felt more positive about their lives after completing three coaching sessions. They indicated that, prior to starting the programme, they had been feeling unhappy about life and lost about how to move forward in their lives.

Part of their frustration was not having anyone to talk to about how they were feeling.

A 21-year-old female participant said after completing round two:

I didn’t know where I was going in life, what I was going to do, I didn’t know where to start. It was a whole blank page for me.

A young man said after round one:

Before I got here, the way I was feeling I didn’t think I can do anything progressive about my life. I had finished high school, but I didn’t know what step to take from there and … I did try but nothing worked … Coaching helped me cope and feel more optimistic.

Next steps

The programme is based on the idea that some young people need more time and support to find their way back into work or education. This might mean connecting them to counselling, childcare, nutrition or social grants.

The pilot revealed high levels of emotional distress, echoing recent labour force data that shows growing discouragement in the working age population. It’s clear that skills training alone isn’t enough; many young people need broader, deeper support to reconnect and thrive.

Efforts to help young people become employable need to offer more support than simply skills training. People involved in the youth employability/youth employment policy and programming sector have to understand young people from a holistic point of view and take into account the significant barriers that poverty and deprivation continue to create. This is the only way to achieve employability programmes that make an impact.

– Jobless young South Africans often lose hope: new study proves the power of mentorship
– https://theconversation.com/jobless-young-south-africans-often-lose-hope-new-study-proves-the-power-of-mentorship-259168

MIL OSI Africa –
July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: DRC and Rwanda sign a US-brokered peace deal: what are the chances of its success?
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Jonathan Beloff, Postdoctoral Research Associate, King’s College London

The foreign ministers of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) signed a new peace agreement on 27 June 2025 under the auspices of the US.

The agreement aims to foster long-term peace, and increased economic trade and security. The DRC is one of Africa’s largest nations, with over 110 million people. Rwanda has a population of 14 million.

After three decades of war and tensions between the two neighbours since the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the hope is that this agreement will establish the foundations for progress that benefits both nations.

It was the Donald Trump administration’s moment to illustrate the effectiveness of its “transactional” foreign policy, focused on exchanges and short-term benefits for each actor.

Most of the agreement’s details remained undisclosed until its signing. One aspect that’s surfaced was the claim that the DRC abandoned its demand for the removal of Rwandan soldiers from its territory. The Congolese government, research groups and the UN have accused Rwanda of supplying military aid, including soldiers, to the March 23 Movement (M23), which has been at war with the government in Kinshasa since 2021. The Rwandan government denies any active involvement but has some sympathies for the Congolese rebel group.

Under the June 2025 agreement, each side provided concessions and demands that are perhaps easier said than done. Both countries also want to show the Trump administration their willingness to negotiate and make a deal. This is in the hopes of future deals with the US, which Trump has remained vague on.

The DRC has immense mineral wealth, including gold, diamonds, tungsten, coltan, tin and lithium. These latter minerals are used in computer chips, batteries and other technologies.

Read more: Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group seeks local power in DRC, not just control over mining operations

The question is whether this latest agreement will lead to peace in the DRC. The likely answer is no, based on research on instability in the eastern DRC, Rwandan foreign policy and the security and political dynamics between Rwanda and the DRC for over 15 years.

This is mainly because
- key players involved in the crisis were left out of negotiations
- no provisions are made for enforcement
- the opportunities for US companies remain questionable given the lack of security in the mining regions.
The roots of the crisis

After the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, former genocide perpetrators used the DRC’s vast size as cover to plan attacks on Rwanda. They intended to return to Rwanda to finish the genocide. The consequences led to the First Congo War (1996-1997) and the Second Congo War (1998-2003).

It was during the bloody second war that the DRC was carved up by multiple rebel groups aligned with various nations and political actors. The UN accuses Rwanda and Uganda of carrying out a massive illegal mineral trade. Both nations deny this.

The consequences of the conflict are still felt over 20 years later. Despite multiple peace agreements, and disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration programmes, an estimated 120 rebel groups remain active in the Congo.

One of them, the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), aims to return Rwanda to ethnic division and the genocide. The Rwandan government fears the group’s genocide and hate ideology.

Additionally, the FDLR and other extremist actors such as Wazalendo target the Banyarwanda. This ethnic group, residing primarily in eastern DRC, is historically related to Rwanda. It has been the target of attacks, which have forced tens of thousands of people to flee into Rwanda.

Read more: The Banyamulenge: how a minority ethnic group in the DRC became the target of rebels – and its own government

These attacks led to the resurrection of the M23. Despite its failures in 2013, the M23 scored major advances in late 2021 in response to attacks on the Banyarwanda. The rebel group led a successful military campaign that occupied large swathes of territory in eastern DRC.

Their success is largely attributed to the Rwandan Defence Forces, despite Kigali denying this claim.

Concessions from each nation

The latest peace agreement addresses the security, political and economic interests of both nations.

The specifics are still unavailable. However, several assumptions based on the framework and leaked reports can be made.

The first is that both nations must respect each other’s territorial sovereignty and stop aiding rebel forces. This will include joint security coordination, and working with the existing UN peacekeeping mission. Additionally, Congolese refugees who fled eastern DRC – estimated to be over 80,000 – will be allowed to return. Finally, the two nations will establish mechanisms to foster greater economic integration.

The DRC has also signalled its willingness to attract American investors. DRC’s vast mineral wealth remains largely underdeveloped. American investment could develop mining that’s safer and extracts larger amounts of minerals than current methods. Kinshasa has also agreed to combat corruption and simplify the tax system.

While most of these incentives would be aimed at mineral extraction companies, they also include private security firms. The Congolese military’s inability to defeat the M23 highlights a problematic security environment that some in the DRC believe can be addressed through foreign intervention. However, these security guarantees are still relatively unknown and face complications that could affect the success of any agreement.

The weaknesses

There are a number of reasons this latest agreement is unlikely to lead to peace.

First, the M23 did not participate in the negotiations. Given that they are the primary military actor in eastern DRC, their commitment to a peace process cannot be guaranteed.

Second, other rebel forces in different parts of the country will feel left out too. They could see this agreement as an opportunity to press for greater concessions from the Congolese government.

Third, there are few mechanisms to enforce the agreement. Since the Second Congo War, there have been multiple treaties, agreements and disarmament programmes with little success. The Pretoria Accord between Rwanda and the DRC in 2002 did not lead to long-term peace. The M23’s name is a nod to their anger over a failed 2009 agreement. In 2024, Rwanda and Congo nearly reached an agreement under Angola’s mediation, but Angola stepped down. The process was then taken over by Qatar and later the US.

Lastly, American investors may be deterred by the security, regulatory and corruption issues that plague the DRC. Even if the Congolese government promises to address these issues, it lacks the necessary capabilities to fulfil its commitment.

– DRC and Rwanda sign a US-brokered peace deal: what are the chances of its success?
– https://theconversation.com/drc-and-rwanda-sign-a-us-brokered-peace-deal-what-are-the-chances-of-its-success-260066

MIL OSI Africa –
July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Eastern Cape flood death toll now stands at 102

Source: South Africa News Agency

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government says a total of 102 bodies have been recovered to date across various districts since the search and rescue mission began following the disastrous floods earlier this month.

According to the provincial government, the bodies were recovered across various districts.

The figure indicates an increase of one person from the previous update provided on 26 June.

O.R. Tambo remains the hardest hit district, with 78 fatalities; Amathole 10, Alfred Nzo five, Joe Gqabi two, Sarah Baartman two, and Chris Hani five.

From the 102 bodies recovered, which include 63 adults and 63 children, 96 bodies have been identified and handed over to families, while six remain unidentified.

Due to the passage of time, DNA tests may be required to positively identify bodies found decomposed, thus implying that it may take longer to identify the deceased.

“The search and recovery teams are continuing with the search, working tirelessly to locate and recover any possible remaining bodies.

“The South African Police Service (SAPS) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) helicopters have been deployed to support the ongoing search and recovery efforts and this coordinated aerial support aims to intensify the search for possibly more victims, including two children who are still missing,” the provincial government said.

The provincial government is continuing to provide shelter, meals and all necessities to the displaced families in community care centres and accommodation establishments in and around Mthatha in O.R. Tambo District Municipality and Butterworth in Amathole District Municipality.

The Department of Health continues to provide essential medical services on-site at shelters and affected communities.

The Department of Social Development, supported by private sector partners, is delivering psychosocial support directly to grieving families and schools impacted by the floods.

Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs has dispatched mobile units to facilitate the replacement of vital documents, such as IDs and birth certificates, ensuring that affected individuals can access services without leaving their temporary homes.

To date, 478 ID replacement applications have been submitted, with three mobile units deployed in each of the two districts.

“Thus far, 56 victims of the floods have been buried across the province and government continues to offer sympathies to all the families of the bereaved, as well as critical support to ensure the burial of the deceased in a dignified manner,” the provincial government said.

The Eastern Cape has officially been declared a national disaster zone following widespread destruction caused by recent severe weather events.

In OR Tambo, water has partially been restored in various areas. Water tankers from both municipalities, the Department of Water and Sanitation, and the Gift of the Givers, continue with the provision of water in the affected communities. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Economic empowerment laws key to redress – President Ramaphosa

Source: South Africa News Agency

South Africa’s empowerment laws may be distinct, however such laws are not a unique global occurrence, says President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The country’s empowerment laws, particularly the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment legal framework, have come under public and media debate over the past few months.

In his weekly newsletter released on Monday, the President said that the empowerment laws are practical, feasible and responsive to “economic conditions, without deviating from the objective of redressing the economic injustices” of the past when Africans and other people of colour were excluded from meaningful economic participation during apartheid.

“Empowerment laws are not unique to South Africa. These laws are often referred to as indigenisation or localisation measures. They exist in various forms in other emerging market economies with similar histories of race-based economic exclusion such as India, Zambia, Indonesia, Nigeria, Malaysia and Brazil.

“A number of these jurisdictions compel foreign investors or multinationals, who wish to invest in the economies of those countries or in certain sectors of their economy, to fully set aside equity stakes in their companies to local entities as a prerequisite for operating in the country. This can serve be seen as a barrier to entry for investment in certain environments.

“However, we have found that many would-be investors do embrace these measures as they enhance inclusiveness, lead to broad acceptance of their companies and tend to grow market share,” he said.

The President explained that South African empowerment laws earn distinction in that the measures are “practical and innovative”.

“In addition to having a pure equity participation measure, we have introduced the Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP).

“It was created to accommodate multinationals whose global practices or policies prevent them from complying with the B-BBEE ownership element through the ‘traditional’ sale of equity or shares. It allows multinationals to invest in socio-economic, skills and enterprise development in South Africa without selling equity in their local subsidiaries,” President Ramaphosa said.

He pushed back on suggestions that EEIP is a circumvention of empowerment laws and public assertions that it is a “response to the conditions of a particular company or sector”.

“Neither are factually correct. Firstly, the EEIP is not new and has been in existence for a decade. It is firmly embedded in our laws and is not an attempt to ‘water down’ B-BBEE.

“Secondly, there are stringent requirements for multinationals to participate. All EEIP initiatives must be aligned to government’s economic policies and strategic goals. There is firm government-backed oversight over EEIP programmes that must be broad-based in terms of impact.

“Since its inception, the EEIP has encompassed a broad range of sectors and onboarded some of the world’s leading multinational firms such as Hewlett-Packard, Samsung, JP Morgan, Amazon, IBM and automotive firms such as BMW, Volkswagen, Nissan and Toyota,” he highlighted.

President Ramapohosa cited technology conglomerate, Microsoft’s investment as an example of how EEIP can lead to local development.

“Microsoft announced a R1.32 billion investment over 10 years in skills and supplier and 4IR research and development – under the EEIP.

“These firms have leveraged the EEIP to direct investment into local development, to incubate black, youth and women-owned businesses, and to fund skills development. This has in turn assisted government in achieving a number of policy and also infrastructure goals.

“Equity Equivalents have been proven to be a practical B-BBEE compliance tool for multinationals operating in South Africa, and we will continue to leverage them in pursuit of economic growth and job creation,” he said.

Changing perceptions

President Ramaphosa reiterated his stance that economic growth and transformation can co-exist.

“Not only do we have to move away from the perception that we must make a choice between growth and transformation – we also have to shift the mindset that compliance with B-BBEE is punitive or burdensome.

“By supporting firms with compliance, they are able to embrace empowerment as a meaningful investment in South African’s long-term economic stability. This is a sound strategy that recognises that a transformed South African economy is one in which their investments are safe and guaranteed,” he said.

The President highlighted that since the introduction of empowerment laws, the “playing field” has evolved.

“The emergence of new industries, whether it is digital technology, advanced manufacturing, AI or renewable energy, means South Africa must actively position itself to attract greater foreign and domestic investment in these sectors or risk being left behind.

“As a country, we have had to adapt and evolve in response to these economic trends, and continue to do so,” President Ramaphosa said.

He emphasised that even as economies and trends evolve, economic transformation remains a government imperative.

“We are clear that our empowerment laws remain central to our goal of economic transformation in South Africa and are here to stay. As business and industry, as labour and indeed, as all of society we should remain firmly behind these laws that are integral to undoing the injustices of the past.

“Our focus going forward must remain creating an enabling policy environment, driving key structural reforms, supporting innovation, and reducing regulatory barriers to harness the potential of emerging industries and support existing ones.

“Beyond the spirited and often heated debates currently underway around B-BBEE and the EEIP, the pursuit of inclusive economic growth that creates jobs and improves the lives of our people remains our overriding goal,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Mchunu speaks out on speculation of “impending arrest” of Police Commissioner

Source: South Africa News Agency

Monday, June 30, 2025

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has noted with concern media reports speculating about an imminent arrest of the National Commissioner of Police.

“As the Ministry of Police, we have not been made aware of such impending arrest. We have also noted the response from the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) on this speculation,” the Police Ministry said in a statement.

“We plead with the media to avoid any speculation on this, as speculation of this nature has an adverse impact on the named person and also has an effect of destabilising the work of the South African Police Service,” the ministry said. – SAnews.gov.za

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MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: The U.S. Navy sets sail for Branson and Springfield, Missouri

Source: United States Navy

The U.S. Navy proudly announces the inaugural Branson/Springfield Navy Week in Missouri, taking place August 25-31, 2025. As part of a nationwide outreach effort, Branson/Springfield Navy Week is bringing 60-70 Sailors to engage directly with the community through a week-long series of performances, educational events, and service projects.

MIL Security OSI –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Press Statement from Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson on the Deportation of Haitian TPS Recipients

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jonathan Jackson – Illinois (1st District)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

This week, the U.S. State Department urged American citizens in Haiti to leave immediately due to escalating violence and instability. This is a clear admission: Haiti is not safe. Forcing 700,000 Haitians—who have lived here legally under Temporary Protected Status (TPS)—to return to such life-threatening conditions is not just wrong, it is immoral and inhumane.

These individuals have been thoroughly vetted, obeyed our laws, and are vital members of our communities. They are nurses, teachers, business owners, and parents who have contributed to our nation for years. Ending their TPS status ignores their humanity and the reality on the ground.

Let’s be honest: Haitians with TPS are here legally. Yet, they face threats of deportation while white South Africans have often received expedited pathways to legal status. This double standard is indefensible.

I call on the administration and Congress to restore TPS protections for Haitians. Decency and justice demand we protect those who have built their lives here and who would face grave danger if forced to return. America must stand for fairness, compassion, and humanity—nothing less.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: ICC statement on EU proposals to strengthen global trading system
Source: International Chamber of Commerce

Headline: ICC statement on EU proposals to strengthen global trading system
Share this:
Following the conclusion of European Council summit discussions on the future of the multilateral trading system, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said:

“It’s very welcome to see EU leaders starting to engage on the question of how to preserve and progressively strengthen the rules-based trading system. This is, without doubt, a mission critical issue for the global business community — and one deserving the highest level of political attention.

“We believe that the immediate focus of discussions between the EU and CPTPP members should be on practical steps to stabilize the global trading system. The obvious starting point for this would be an agreement to harmonize rules of origin requirements between the two blocs.

“That might sound modest on paper — but reinforcing and simplifying the underpinnings of trade would provide a huge boost to business confidence.

“More broadly, it’s important that we don’t reduce the discussion on necessary reform of the trading system to one of institutional form.

“The focus needs to be squarely on outcomes: preserving rules-based trade, keeping markets open and progressively revitalizing global trade governance in line with the realities of 21st century commerce.

“In doing so, governments should be mindful of the fact that around 80% of trade today remains backed by World Trade Organization rules. Despite its many shortcomings, the WTO continues to play an essential role in facilitating millions of commercial transactions — day in, day out.

“President von der Leyen and Chancellor Mertz very rightly pointed last night to the importance of having a functioning system to resolve trade disputes. In a EU-CPTPP context it’s entirely possible this could be achieved by way a firm commitment to utilize the established workaround to the WTO’s appellate body — the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement.

“We encourage CPTPP members that have not yet signed up to the MPIA to do so without delay. Given the economic imperative to provide renewed certainty to the business community, this is not the moment to be reinventing the wheel — we need to make full use of existing mechanisms to bring stability and predictability to global trade.”
MIL OSI Economics –
July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Joint Statement by ICC and WTO heads

Source: International Chamber of Commerce

Headline: Joint Statement by ICC and WTO heads

The statement said:

We reaffirm our shared commitment to harnessing the power of trade as a driver of global development.

A well-functioning multilateral trading system remains essential to enabling private sector-led growth — particularly in emerging and developing economies, where local businesses depend on predictable rules, open markets, and efficient trade processes to compete and thrive.

Yet too many businesses around the world continue to face barriers that hinder their full participation in global trade. From constrained access to trade finance and working capital services, to excessive border delays and customs inefficiencies, these obstacles often hit the smallest and most dynamic enterprises the hardest — undermining both job creation and development impact.

We call on governments and development partners gathered in Seville to:

— Reaffirm the centrality of the multilateral trading system as a foundation for global development;

— Strengthen efforts to identify and address regulatory frictions that inhibit cross-border trade and associated financing — including, as a priority, the erosion of correspondent banking networks and the unintended impacts of financial crime compliance regimes that have led to de-risking, particularly in regions most in need of trade finance.

— Support coordinated efforts to strengthen trade-related infrastructure, digitalization of trade processes, and targeted capacity building for SMEs to enhance economic and supply chain resilience.

As the global community focuses on strengthening economic resilience and fostering growth, enabling trade must be a central pillar of any serious strategy for mobilizing private capital at scale. This must be underpinned by a shared effort to modernize core multilateral trade rules in line with the realities of 21st century commerce.

We stand ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure that trade can deliver on its full potential for people, planet, and prosperity.

John W.H. Denton AO
Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Director-General, World Trade Organization (WTO)

MIL OSI Economics –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Funding shortages threaten relief for millions of Sudanese refugees: World Food Programme (WFP)

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In an alert, the UN agency warned that it faces having to make “drastic cuts” to life-saving food assistance, which may “grind to a halt” in the Central African Republic, Egypt, Ethiopia and Libya in the coming months as resources run out.

WFP noted that the situation for many Sudanese refugees is already dire, more than two years since war erupted between Sudan’s national army and paramilitary rebels.

“In Uganda, many vulnerable refugees are surviving on less than 500 calories a day” – less than a quarter of daily nutritional needs – as new arrivals strain refugee support systems, WFP said. In Chad, which hosts almost a quarter of the four million refugees who fled Sudan, food rations will be reduced in the coming months without new contributions.

Vulnerable youngsters

Children are particularly vulnerable to sustained periods of hunger and malnutrition rates among young refugees in reception centres in Uganda and South Sudan have already breached emergency thresholds. According to WFP, refugees are already severely malnourished even before arriving in neighbouring countries to receive emergency assistance.

“This is a full-blown regional crisis that’s playing out in countries that already have extreme levels of food insecurity and high levels of conflict,” said Shaun Hughes, WFP Emergency Coordinator for the Sudan Regional Crisis.

“Millions of people who have fled Sudan depend wholly on support from WFP, but without additional funding we will be forced to make further cuts to food assistance. This will leave vulnerable families, and particularly children, at increasingly severe risk of hunger and malnutrition.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Stakeholders urge prioritisation of women in land governance

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The Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, has called on national actors in the land sector to actively implement the provisions of existing policies, especially the National Land Policy of 2013, to promote equitable land ownership and management.

According to the premier, government has invested in land registration systems and community sensitisation programmes, however, gaps remain in implementation and cultural transformation of Ugandan societies.

“We still see customary practices that override statutory laws and discriminate against women. We must ask ourselves what are we doing as leaders, institutions and citizens to dismantle the invisible barriers that deny women their rightful stake in the land they till,” Nabbanja said.

The Prime Minister’s remarks were contained in a speech presented on her behalf by the Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Judith Nabakooba, at the second National Symposium on Land Governance in Uganda.

The event held at Parliament on Friday, 27 June 2025 was premised on the theme, ‘Securing Women’s Agricultural Land Ownership: A Political and Development Imperative’.

Nabbanja said government is committed to bridging the gap through strengthening institutions that support land access and tenure security for women, fast-tracking gender responsive land registration processes, and promoting legal literacy and reforms that simplify access for women, particularly in rural areas.

“We must ensure that our policies, budgets and laws reflect the needs of women small-holder farmers. This journey requires more than political pledges, it requires systems that are transparent, accountable and gender responsive. We must ensure that land titling processes are simplified, decentralised and inclusive,” Nabbanja added.

She also made a call to cultural institutions to harmonise tradition with constitutional values, to promote customary land ownership by women.

“SDG 5 on gender equity and SDG 2 on zero hunger cannot be achieved unless women have control over productive assets, especially land. We must operationalise these commitments through national action and put women at the center of land governance,” the Prime Minister said.

The Chairperson of the Uganda Parliamentarians Land Management Forum, Hon. Christine Kaaya, called on focal entities in the land sector to work towards clearing the backlog associated with land advocacy.

“We must also amplify the discussions on land governance, dispute resolution, policies and all related statutory instruments. The debate on land governance should be on each and everyone’s agenda,” Kaaya, also the District Woman Representative for Kiboga, said.

The Oxfam Country Director in Uganda, Francis Odokorach, noted that 70 per cent of the workforce in the agricultural sector is comprised of women, however, only a small fraction of them own land, a disparity that undermines productivity.

“If they have full control over the land and can make decisions, we can expect sustainable development. But, it is not just a development question, it is a political imperative because it is deeply rooted in equity and constitutional values,” said. Odokorach.

He also urged government leaders to prioritise gender in land policy, track how much is budgeted to ensure land certification programmes will effectively prioritise women, and also strengthen land information systems.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Police Chairperson Calls for Immediate Suspension of Every Arrested South African Police Service (SAPS) Officer

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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, has called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) management to suspend every member of the SAPS arrested over the past week, pending finalisation of internal investigations.

“The sanctity of the investigations is dependent not only on justice being done, but also on the appearance that justice is done. It is essential for the credibility of the investigations as well as the SAPS reputation that arrested senior officers are suspended until the conclusion of the investigations,” Mr Cameron emphasised.

The Chairperson has noted that the SAPS have in the recent past taken a nonchalant attitude towards errant officers, returning them to work despite serious criminal charges. While the Chairperson acknowledges that everyone is presumed innocent unless proven otherwise, investigations must be completed urgently to ensure that only fit and proper individuals serve within the SAPS,” Mr Cameron emphasised.

The arrest of senior officers within the Crime Intelligence service has laid bare the level of rot within the environment. This has a chilling effect when considering the centrality of CI in combating crime in the country. “It is clear that a major pillar to fight crime has been disabled through rogue officers who are inclined to act criminally,” Mr Cameron said.

It is on this basis that a skills audit within the senior echelons of SAPS is necessary. Also, periodic lifestyle audits must be undertaken, especially in the CI environment and senior management of SAPS,” Mr Cameron contended.

Mr Cameron reiterated that the committee will not be complicit and allow rogue SAPS to remain unaccountable. “We will continue to insist that every rogue officer must be removed from the service to protect the reputation of the service,” Mr Cameron concluded.

The committee will soon schedule a meeting to assess the impact of the arrests and processes to be followed in instituting internal consequence management.

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

MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) applauds Mali’s adoption of landmark law to protect stateless people

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UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, welcomes the recent adoption of Mali’s groundbreaking legislation to protect the rights of stateless people and resolve their plight.

The law builds on Mali’s accession to the 1954 and 1961 Statelessness Conventions in 2016. Comprising 28 articles, it provides a definition of a stateless person, outlines their rights and duties, and provides long-term solutions. It applies to stateless migrants and those born in Mali, guaranteeing rights to health care, education, employment, housing and justice on an equal basis with Malians. The law also protects stateless people from penalties for not having legal documents, prohibits their expulsion (with certain exceptions), and offers a path to Malian nationality or having Malian nationality confirmed.

In Mali, a considerable number of undocumented residents, individuals belonging to nomadic groups, long-term refugees and those in remote border villages are at risk of statelessness or are of undetermined nationality. These communities often struggle to access civil registration and prove their nationality. Since 2017, supported by UNHCR, Mali has taken action to address these issues. Nearly 2,400 individuals at risk of statelessness have been naturalized, and over 30,000 have received birth certificates and other civil documents. Awareness campaigns and partnerships have also helped improve understanding and access to legal identity, even in hard-to-reach areas.

“The adoption of this law is a major step forward in the protection of human rights in Mali and a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to end statelessness. It is a beacon of hope for thousands of vulnerable individuals,” said Georges Patrick Menze, acting UNHCR Representative in Mali. “We are proud of our partnership with the Government of Mali and will continue supporting its efforts to ensure that everyone has the right to a nationality”.

UNHCR remains committed to actively supporting the Government with the effective implementation of the new law and sustaining progress in addressing statelessness, and emphasizes the importance of continued support from international partners and donors.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Water and Sanitation Chairperson Calls for Effective Communication on Water Shortage During Rand Water Maintenance

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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation, Mr Leon Basson, has called for effective communications to communities who will be affected by the planned maintenance of the Rand Water system.

“While we welcome the planned maintenance of the bulk system, it is important that communities are kept up to date on when they will face shortages and intervening plans to provide water,” Mr Basson emphasised.

The Chairperson also welcomed Rand Water’s proactive maintenance of the bulk system. The committee has consistently maintained that proactive system maintenance is essential to ensure the availability of water and reduce non-revenue water.

Despite this, the committee remains concerned that municipalities are not taking the initiative regarding the maintenance of the reticulation system. “It is unacceptable that municipalities are not maintaining their systems, which undercuts the maintenance by Rand Water. If the system is not maintained from source to tap, the value chain will continue to experience high non-revenue water. We reiterate the call for municipalities to come on board and invest in maintenance programmes for their system,” Mr Basson concluded.

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

MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: President El-Sisi Meets Commander-in-Chief of Libya’s National Army Field Marshal Haftar

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Today in Al-Alamain City, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar. The meeting was attended by Libya’s Chief of Security Units Staff, Lieutenant General Khaled Haftar, and Libya’s Chief of Staff of the Ground Forces, Lieutenant General Saddam Haftar, as well as Egypt’s Director of the General Intelligence Service, Major General Hassan Rashad.

Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the meeting underscored the special and close brotherly relations between Egypt and Libya. President El-Sisi reiterated that Libya’s stability is an integral part of Egypt’s national security. The President stressed that Egypt is exerting utmost efforts, in coordination with Libyan parties and the General Command of the Libyan National Army, to reinforce security and stability in Libya, preserve its unity and sovereignty, and restore its development path. President El-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s full support for all initiatives aimed at achieving these objectives.

President El-Sisi expressed Egypt’s commitment to preserving the unity and cohesion of Libyan state institutions, reaffirming the vital need to strengthen coordination among all Libyan parties to develop a comprehensive political roadmap, paving the way for simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections. President El-Sisi underlined the urgent need to counter foreign interference and work to facilitate the departure of all foreign forces and mercenaries from Libyan territory.

President El-Sisi expressed Egypt’s appreciation for the national role played by the Libyan National Army in combating terrorism, which contributed to eliminating terrorist organizations in eastern Libya. Field Marshal Haftar voiced his profound appreciation for Egypt’s pivotal role in restoring security and stability in Libya. He lauded Egypt’s unyielding efforts in supporting and assisting the Libyan people since the outbreak of the crisis, grounded in the historical relations that unite the two brotherly peoples. Field Marshal Haftar also valued Egypt’s active contribution to transferring its development experience to Libya and benefiting from the expertise of leading Egyptian companies. He affirmed commitment to overcoming challenges and realizing the Libyan people’s aspirations for stability and prosperity.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: ICC statement on EU proposals to strengthen global trading system
Source: International Chamber of Commerce

Headline: ICC statement on EU proposals to strengthen global trading system
Share this:
Following the conclusion of European Council summit discussions on the future of the multilateral trading system, ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said:

“It’s very welcome to see EU leaders starting to engage on the question of how to preserve and progressively strengthen the rules-based trading system. This is, without doubt, a mission critical issue for the global business community — and one deserving the highest level of political attention.

“We believe that the immediate focus of discussions between the EU and CPTPP members should be on practical steps to stabilize the global trading system. The obvious starting point for this would be an agreement to harmonize rules of origin requirements between the two blocs.

“That might sound modest on paper — but reinforcing and simplifying the underpinnings of trade would provide a huge boost to business confidence.

“More broadly, it’s important that we don’t reduce the discussion on necessary reform of the trading system to one of institutional form.

“The focus needs to be squarely on outcomes: preserving rules-based trade, keeping markets open and progressively revitalizing global trade governance in line with the realities of 21st century commerce.

“In doing so, governments should be mindful of the fact that around 80% of trade today remains backed by World Trade Organization rules. Despite its many shortcomings, the WTO continues to play an essential role in facilitating millions of commercial transactions — day in, day out.

“President von der Leyen and Chancellor Mertz very rightly pointed last night to the importance of having a functioning system to resolve trade disputes. In a EU-CPTPP context it’s entirely possible this could be achieved by way a firm commitment to utilize the established workaround to the WTO’s appellate body — the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement.

“We encourage CPTPP members that have not yet signed up to the MPIA to do so without delay. Given the economic imperative to provide renewed certainty to the business community, this is not the moment to be reinventing the wheel — we need to make full use of existing mechanisms to bring stability and predictability to global trade.”
MIL OSI Global Banks –
July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Joint Statement by ICC and WTO heads

Source: International Chamber of Commerce

Headline: Joint Statement by ICC and WTO heads

The statement said:

We reaffirm our shared commitment to harnessing the power of trade as a driver of global development.

A well-functioning multilateral trading system remains essential to enabling private sector-led growth — particularly in emerging and developing economies, where local businesses depend on predictable rules, open markets, and efficient trade processes to compete and thrive.

Yet too many businesses around the world continue to face barriers that hinder their full participation in global trade. From constrained access to trade finance and working capital services, to excessive border delays and customs inefficiencies, these obstacles often hit the smallest and most dynamic enterprises the hardest — undermining both job creation and development impact.

We call on governments and development partners gathered in Seville to:

— Reaffirm the centrality of the multilateral trading system as a foundation for global development;

— Strengthen efforts to identify and address regulatory frictions that inhibit cross-border trade and associated financing — including, as a priority, the erosion of correspondent banking networks and the unintended impacts of financial crime compliance regimes that have led to de-risking, particularly in regions most in need of trade finance.

— Support coordinated efforts to strengthen trade-related infrastructure, digitalization of trade processes, and targeted capacity building for SMEs to enhance economic and supply chain resilience.

As the global community focuses on strengthening economic resilience and fostering growth, enabling trade must be a central pillar of any serious strategy for mobilizing private capital at scale. This must be underpinned by a shared effort to modernize core multilateral trade rules in line with the realities of 21st century commerce.

We stand ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure that trade can deliver on its full potential for people, planet, and prosperity.

John W.H. Denton AO
Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Director-General, World Trade Organization (WTO)

MIL OSI Global Banks –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: County-wide options for council reorganisation: Portsmouth have your say

Source: City of Portsmouth

Portsmouth City Council recently asked for comments about Local Government Reorganisation from a purely Portsmouth perspective. Now people’s input is wanted as part of a county-wide survey, as this affects local authorities across the whole of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

The government wants to replace the current 15 councils in the region with fewer, single councils, covering bigger areas of around 500,000 people.

Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

“Our priority is to get the best possible outcome for people and communities in Portsmouth.

“We’ve said from the beginning that Portsmouth should be left out of Local Government Reorganisation plans, because we already have one council which is financially stable. However, we are being forced to present to government plans to reorganise, so we are working with 11 other councils in our region to develop the best options for how new councils, including ours, could be organised in the future.

“It’s really important we hear what Portsmouth people think so their views can be included as much as possible in any future plans.”

Three draft options are available for people to comment on. All options propose that four unitary councils, plus the Isle of Wight remaining a single unitary council, deliver all council services to residents living in those areas.

As part of these options, people are also asked to comment on potential boundary changes for some towns and villages.

The options are intended to strike a balance between councils that are big enough to deliver services, but local enough to understand their communities. Key to the survey is understanding how residents, businesses and community groups feel about the changes and what area they think their future council should cover.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight-wide survey follows a Portsmouth-wide survey, with results from that to follow.

The survey is open and will run until Sunday 27 July at midnight. People can take part here: https://ourplaceourfuture.commonplace.is

Following the feedback, individual councils are expected to submit a preferred option to the government in September.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/GUINEA BISSAU – New Bishop of Bafatà: Listening, dialogue, and walking with the people are among his priorities

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Pontifícias Obras Missionárias Guiné Bissau

Bafatà (Agenzia Fides) – “I want to be a pastor present in the villages, in our most remote communities, in our wounded hearts,” said Victor Luís Quematcha (OFM) in his homily at the first Holy Mass he celebrated as the new Bishop of Bafatà in the Cathedral on Sunday, June 29. The day before, a ceremony for the taking possession of the diocese took place, attended by bishops from Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and Cape Verde, as well as ecclesiastics from Portugal and Brazil and a large number of local faithful, including a representative of the Pontifical Mission Societies.In his homily at his first Mass as Bishop, Luis Quematcha emphasized the coincidence with the Solemnity of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. He emphasized that he brings no fixed plans, ideas, or solutions, but that, above all, he wants to listen, engage in dialogue, and walk together with the people. “I come with an open heart to the Holy Spirit and the cries of the people,” declared the new Bishop of Bafatá, whose diocese covers an area of more than 24,600 square kilometers and has played a fundamental role in the evangelization and social development of the eastern and southern regions of the country. Víctor Luís Quematcha (OFM), was born in Cúmura (Bissau), Guinea Bissau (see Fides, 8/03/2025), and succeeds Bishop Pedro Zilli (PIME), the first bishop of the diocese established in 2001, who died in 2021 due to Covid. The choice of the episcopal motto “You are all brothers” (Mt 23:8) is intended as an invitation to fraternity and unity among the faithful and underlines the values of communion and solidarity in keeping with the Church’s mission to promote peace and harmony, as the new bishop explained in an interview with Rádio Sol Mansi. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 30/6/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/GUINEA BISSAU – New Bishop of Bafatà: Listening, dialogue, and walking with the people are among his priorities

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Pontifícias Obras Missionárias Guiné Bissau

Bafatà (Agenzia Fides) – “I want to be a pastor present in the villages, in our most remote communities, in our wounded hearts,” said Victor Luís Quematcha (OFM) in his homily at the first Holy Mass he celebrated as the new Bishop of Bafatà in the Cathedral on Sunday, June 29. The day before, a ceremony for the taking possession of the diocese took place, attended by bishops from Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and Cape Verde, as well as ecclesiastics from Portugal and Brazil and a large number of local faithful, including a representative of the Pontifical Mission Societies.In his homily at his first Mass as Bishop, Luis Quematcha emphasized the coincidence with the Solemnity of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. He emphasized that he brings no fixed plans, ideas, or solutions, but that, above all, he wants to listen, engage in dialogue, and walk together with the people. “I come with an open heart to the Holy Spirit and the cries of the people,” declared the new Bishop of Bafatá, whose diocese covers an area of more than 24,600 square kilometers and has played a fundamental role in the evangelization and social development of the eastern and southern regions of the country. Víctor Luís Quematcha (OFM), was born in Cúmura (Bissau), Guinea Bissau (see Fides, 8/03/2025), and succeeds Bishop Pedro Zilli (PIME), the first bishop of the diocese established in 2001, who died in 2021 due to Covid. The choice of the episcopal motto “You are all brothers” (Mt 23:8) is intended as an invitation to fraternity and unity among the faithful and underlines the values of communion and solidarity in keeping with the Church’s mission to promote peace and harmony, as the new bishop explained in an interview with Rádio Sol Mansi. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 30/6/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/CAMBODIA – Coadjutor of the Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh: “An important step for the Catholic Church in Cambodia”

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Catholic Church Cambodia

Phnom Penh (Agenzia Fides) – In 1975, the young Cambodian priest Joseph Chmar Salas was appointed coadjutor of the Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh by Pope Paul VI. He was the first Cambodian bishop in history. Cambodia and the Cambodian people were experiencing the darkest period in their history at that time: Chmar Salas became one of the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime and died in 1977 in Tangkok, far from his Vicariate. In the 1990s, after this sad period, marked by death and suffering, when religious freedom was reinstated in the country, the Holy See entrusted the local Church to the priests of the Paris Foreign Missions (MEP). The Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh was initially Yves Ramousse (MEP), then Émile Destombes (MEP) (since 2001), and finally, since 2010, the current Vicar, Olivier Schmitthaeusler. On June 28, 2025, fifty years after the appointment of the first Cambodian bishop, history repeated itself: Cambodian priest Pierre Suon Hang Ly was appointed Coadjutor Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh. The current Vicar, Bishop Schmitthaeusler, told Fides: “Leo XIV has given the Church of Cambodia a great gift by appointing a Cambodian as Coadjutor of the Vicariate of Phnom Penh. Priests, religious, and all the communities are full of joy and happiness and warmly welcome Pierre Suon Hang Ly to Phnom Penh.” “This is a very important step for the Catholic Church in Cambodia,” Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler continued. “I have been asking the Holy See for this for some time. Now the time is ripe.” “The appointment of a Cambodian Apostolic Vicar is a sign of the maturity of our local Church and a strong signal to root the small Catholic Church even more deeply in the society, culture, and life of the country,” he continues. “As for me, I will continue my service as Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh for some time, flanked by Bishop Ly. Together, as brothers in the episcopate, as successors of the Apostles, we will now be the shepherds of this part of the People of God, serving the Church with love, but also with greater readiness and renewed dynamism to proclaim the Good News in all parts of the Vicariate.” “We will be on this journey together with our brother priests, our seminarians, all religious orders, diocesan offices, parishes, Catholic NGOs, and lay missionaries,” assures Bishop Schmitthaeusler, who invokes the protection of the Virgin Mary: “We entrust ourselves to Our Lady of the Mekong to guide us in our mission during this Holy Year of Hope. Let us pray for one another in this historic moment for our Catholic Church in Cambodia.” And he concludes: “We thank the Lord for the presence of Bishop Ly as Coadjutor of the Vicariate, and we thank him for having accepted this new task of serving the People of God in Phnom Penh with trust and dedication. Bishop Ly already knows the Vicariate of Phnom Penh very well, with its diversity, its dynamism, and its challenges in this new society that is being built”. Pierre Suon Hang Ly was born on April 15, 1972, in Pho Thom, the hometown of Bishop Joseph Chmar Salas. He attended the major seminary first in Battambang and then in Phnom Penh. He was ordained a priest on December 9, 2001. From 2002 to 2007, he he carried out pastoral service in Kampot and Takeo, and then studied at the Catholic Institute in Paris until 2015. Upon his return to Phnom Penh, he was appointed parish priest of the new pastoral unit of Thmey and Vicar General. In July 2022, he was appointed Apostolic Prefect of Kompong Cham, a position he has held so far. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 30/5/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Helping the MOD and the defence industry navigate the single source regulatory framework for key supply-chain contracts
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

News story

Helping the MOD and the defence industry navigate the single source regulatory framework for key supply-chain contracts

The SSRO has published new guidance that will help all stakeholders identify and apply the regulatory framework for single source defence contracts to qualifying sub-contracts.
Following consultation with stakeholders, the SSRO has published new guidance on how the regulatory framework for single source defence contracts applies to qualifying sub-contracts (QSCs). QSCs account for around one in six of all qualifying contracts under the regulatory framework and have a combined value of more than £8.2 billion.

The new guidance summarises the relevant parts of the regulatory framework and provides signposting to existing SSRO guidance, for example, on pricing and reporting.

The SSRO’s Chief Regulatory Officer, Jo Watts, said:

“This new guidance follows a request from industry for a consolidated summary of the complex regulations related to QSCs. The guidance has been informed by the questions we are commonly asked about QSCs and takes account of the feedback received from stakeholders during our consultation. Based on the positive feedback we had from stakeholders, we are confident the new guidance will help the MOD, contractors and sub-contractors better understand their respective rights and obligations in relation to QSCs.”

The SSRO has also published a summary of the feedback it received during its consultation and how it has responded to this in preparing the new guidance.

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Published 30 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/KENYA – “Let us continue the dialogue with young people instead of blaming the bishops”

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Nairobi (Agenzia Fides) – “We want to ask everybody — the government, the leaders, and the political spheres — to look at the fact that we are taking care of the dignity of the young people,”said Archbishop Philip Arnold Subira Anyolo of Nairobi yesterday, Sunday, June 29, in a statement regarding the accusations made by the Minister of the Interior Kipchumba Murkomen against Catholic and non-Catholic religious leaders, whom the minister accuses of siding with the “anarchists” and failing to condemn the violence during the “Generation Z” protests on June 25 in memory of the victims of last year’s demonstrations against the Finance Bill (see Fides, 21, 25 and 26 June 2024).At least 16 people were killed in clashes with police during this year’s protests (see Fides, 26/6/2025). In his statement, the Archbishop of Nairobi emphasized that the Church cares about the lives of all people: “Life is never to be sacrificed for anything else, but to be given the future, for the prosperity of the nation and for the prosperity of human beings.”Archbishop Anyolo therefore reiterated his call to listen to young people: “we have to agree — all of us together — the leaders in government, the church, and the parents, all of us who take care of the young people, we need to listen to them and understand them and help them grow and mature”.Members of the Anglican Church also responded to the Minister of the Interior. “Give top priority to the economic well-being of the people. The cost of living is unbearable for many families. Young people are unemployed. Parents cannot pay school fees. Businesses are struggling. These are not just statistics; they are stories of real suffering. Government must listen, act, and respond quickly,” emphasized the Anglican Bishop of Nyahururu, Samson Gachathi.”I know that there will be no bishop or church member, neither Catholic nor Anglican, who will come out to defend the police. Nobody will speak about how the police were injured,”the Minister of the Interior declared, reiterating that nine police stations were attacked, five of which were set on fire. Dozens of police, government, and civilian vehicles were also damaged. The Ministry of Agriculture also claimed that more than 7,354 bags of fertilizer worth approximately $230,000 were stolen from a national warehouse in Meru County, about 200 kilometers east of Nairobi, taking advantage of the chaos of the demonstrations that turned violent. The theft was described by Kenyan authorities as a “direct attack on Kenya’s food security.” (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 30/6/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/KENYA – “Let us continue the dialogue with young people instead of blaming the bishops”

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Nairobi (Agenzia Fides) – “We want to ask everybody — the government, the leaders, and the political spheres — to look at the fact that we are taking care of the dignity of the young people,”said Archbishop Philip Arnold Subira Anyolo of Nairobi yesterday, Sunday, June 29, in a statement regarding the accusations made by the Minister of the Interior Kipchumba Murkomen against Catholic and non-Catholic religious leaders, whom the minister accuses of siding with the “anarchists” and failing to condemn the violence during the “Generation Z” protests on June 25 in memory of the victims of last year’s demonstrations against the Finance Bill (see Fides, 21, 25 and 26 June 2024).At least 16 people were killed in clashes with police during this year’s protests (see Fides, 26/6/2025). In his statement, the Archbishop of Nairobi emphasized that the Church cares about the lives of all people: “Life is never to be sacrificed for anything else, but to be given the future, for the prosperity of the nation and for the prosperity of human beings.”Archbishop Anyolo therefore reiterated his call to listen to young people: “we have to agree — all of us together — the leaders in government, the church, and the parents, all of us who take care of the young people, we need to listen to them and understand them and help them grow and mature”.Members of the Anglican Church also responded to the Minister of the Interior. “Give top priority to the economic well-being of the people. The cost of living is unbearable for many families. Young people are unemployed. Parents cannot pay school fees. Businesses are struggling. These are not just statistics; they are stories of real suffering. Government must listen, act, and respond quickly,” emphasized the Anglican Bishop of Nyahururu, Samson Gachathi.”I know that there will be no bishop or church member, neither Catholic nor Anglican, who will come out to defend the police. Nobody will speak about how the police were injured,”the Minister of the Interior declared, reiterating that nine police stations were attacked, five of which were set on fire. Dozens of police, government, and civilian vehicles were also damaged. The Ministry of Agriculture also claimed that more than 7,354 bags of fertilizer worth approximately $230,000 were stolen from a national warehouse in Meru County, about 200 kilometers east of Nairobi, taking advantage of the chaos of the demonstrations that turned violent. The theft was described by Kenyan authorities as a “direct attack on Kenya’s food security.” (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 30/6/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/CHINA – The People of God in China accompany the priests in their “Jubilee of Hope”

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Monday, 30 June 2025

xinde.org

Beijing (Agenzia Fides) – With a 24-hour Eucharistic adoration and prayers to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Chinese Catholics celebrated the days before and after the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the spirit of popular piety, accompanying Chinese seminarians, bishops, and priests from June 25 to 27, in communion with Pope Leo XIV and the universal Church, during their Jubilee of Hope. In the Cathedral of the Diocese of Wenzhou, Eucharistic adoration began at 8 p.m. on June 26 and ended at 8 p.m. on June 27. The faithful were invited to pray especially for the “sanctification of priests.” The seminarians and priests themselves also addressed their prayers to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, asking for the gifts of health, holiness, and the practice of Christian virtues. Eucharistic adoration was characterized by the recitation of the Rosary, listening to the Word of God, and sacred music. At the end of each hour, the prayer intentions for the sanctification of priests, at service of the mission of the Church, were recalled. The practice of Eucharistic adoration reminds everyone that only through the gift of the Eucharist do priests and lay people move forward each day with the request to experience the miracle of their own holiness and the holiness of others in their daily lives.In the Diocese of Taiyuan, Bishop Paul Meng Ningyou ordained two new priests on Saturday, June 28, on the occasion of the Jubilee. Bishop Meng recommended that they proclaim the Gospel, live it, and be an example to the faithful, as well as to ask for their own sanctification in light of Christ’s teachings, administer the sacraments, and be active in serving the faithful, and live their priesthood joyfully and in communion with the bishop.From June 23 to 26, priests from the Diocese of Sanyuan in the Chinese province of Shaanxi gathered to reflect on the “communal journey of the Holy Year” on the occasion of the Jubilee of Priests. During the four days of formation and sharing, the priests of the Diocese of Sanyuan meditated on their priestly ministry and the daily obligations of their pastoral experience in light of the testimonies and teachings of Saints and the Fathers of the Church. The four days spent together were a precious opportunity to renew their missionary zeal and continue their journey of conversion. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides, 30/6/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/VIETNAM – Forty new priests in Vietnam during the month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Monday, 30 June 2025

Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh city

Ho Chi Minh City (Agenzia Fides) – The Catholic Church in Vietnam continues to flourish in priestly vocations. In June 2025, the month dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and traditionally reserved for priestly ordinations, forty new priests were ordained, a precious gift for the Vietnamese Church: six in the Diocese of Da Nang, thirteen in the Diocese of Can Tho, in the Mekong Delta, and twenty-one in the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City.The Diocese of Da Nang joyfully welcomed six new priests, “consecrated to be each an Alter Christus, to become pastors of the People of God, not to live for themselves, but to be all things to all people,” said Monsignor Joseph Dang Duc Ngan, Archbishop of Hue and Apostolic Administrator of Da Nang, during the solemn ordination of six priests, celebrated on June 24 in Da Nang Cathedral, attended by numerous faithful. Referring to the life of Saint John the Baptist, the Prelate recalled: “A priest does not become perfect from the day of his ordination. The priesthood is a journey of daily growth in Christ and constant strengthening in the Holy Spirit to fulfill the mission of God and the Church with joy and true love.” The following day, June 25, in Soc Trang Cathedral, Diocese of Can Tho, Bishop Peter Le Tan Loi presided over the ordination of thirteen new priests. During the celebration, the bishop invited the community “to unite in prayer and accompany the new priests, so that they may always lead a life faithful to their pastoral identity: humble, holy, and dedicated to the flock.”On June 27, 2025, the Day of the Sanctification of the Priesthood, the diocese of Ho Chi Minh City celebrated the ordination of twenty-one new priests. In his homily, Archbishop Joseph Nguyen Nang, Archbishop of the archdiocese, emphasized: “The priest is not like a robot of the modern age. The priest, in his ministry, takes God’s will seriously so that, in every action – liturgical, pastoral, and charitable – he may transmit the Good News.”At the Shrine of Our Lady of Bai Dau, in the Diocese of Ba Ria, Bishop Emmanuel Nguyen Hong Son presented six seminarians who received diaconal ordination during the Mass of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. (AD/PA) (Agenzia Fides, 30/6/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

July 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Discurso del Presidente António Costa en el evento especial ‘Plataforma de Acción de Sevilla’ de la 4ᵃ Conferencia Internacional sobre Financiación para el Desarrollo (FFD4)

Source: Council of the European Union

El presidente del Consejo Europeo, António Costa, viajó a Sevilla y pronunció un discurso en el evento especial ‘Plataforma de Acción de Sevilla’ de la Cuarta Conferencia Internacional sobre la Financiación para el Desarrollo (FFD4) el 30 de junio de 2025.

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 1, 2025