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Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grothman Reintroduces Bipartisan Stop the Baseline Bloat Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah 6th District Wisconsin)

    Congressmen Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Ed Case (D-HI), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), and Marlin Stutzman (R-IN) have reintroduced the bipartisan Stop the Baseline Bloat Act. This legislation will bring more honesty and transparency to the federal budget process by removing emergency spending from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) baseline.

    Currently, the CBO includes emergency spending in its annual baseline projections. This practice distorts long-term fiscal projections, skews the baseline budget toward higher spending, and contributes to our nation’s growing debt crisis. This bill ensures emergency spending is treated as temporary and does not artificially raise expectations for future spending.

    The bill has also earned the support of Citizens Against Government Waste, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, National Taxpayers Union, and Taxpayers Protection Alliance.

    “The Stop the Baseline Bloat Act will increase transparency between the government and the American people, painting a clear and honest picture of how Washington is spending their hard-eared money,” said Congressman Glenn Grothman. The CBO cannot continue to create a budget baseline that justifies outrageous spending levels. Getting the country’s fiscal house in order starts with an unbiased CBO baseline.”

    The path out of our growing budget crisis starts with accurate and transparent budgets,” said Rep. Ed Case. “A budget that inflates prior year spending to conceal real growth year-to-year is neither accurate nor transparent. Our measure would eliminate these budgetary tricks that conceal our dangerous journey into fiscal irresponsibility.”

    “Taxpayers should not have to spend more because the CBO continually has inaccurate projections for America’s fiscal future,” said Rep. Stutzman. “Emergency spending is supposed to address urgent funding needs with non-permanent spending. Instead, the CBO has chosen to treat emergency spending like regular appropriations, inflating discretionary spending

    “In order to seriously take on our national debt and avoid passing it on to our kids, we need to address budgetary distortions that help politicians justify spending through the roof,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “Our bipartisan bill will remove emergency spending from the baseline set by the Congressional Budget Office, creating a more accurate reflection of our annual spending and how we should responsibly budget for the future.”

    “The bipartisan Stop the Baseline Bloat Act would enhance the accuracy of Congressional Budget Office projections by excluding temporary emergency and supplemental spending from the baseline. This commonsense reform would prevent one-time expenditures from inflating long-term spending projections and promote greater fiscal accountability,” said Demian Brady, Vice President of Research at the National Taxpayers Union.

    “TPA is pleased to support Rep. Grothman’s Stop the Baseline Bloat Act. Emergency and supplemental spending are meant to be temporary and should not be embedded into long-term budget projections or inflated year after year. By eliminating this distortion from CBO’s baseline calculations, the bill takes a meaningful step toward reducing federal spending and advancing long-term fiscal discipline,” said David Williams, President of the Taxpayers Protection Alliance.

    “The Stop Baseline Bloat Act would help restore fiscal restraint in the budgeting process by stripping out the cost of emergency and supplemental appropriations from the CBO baseline. As is evident from the designation of their purpose, such legislation is not meant to have a permanent impact on the budget by inflating the amount of future spending,” said Tom Schatz, President of the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste.

    “The Congressional Budget Office’s baseline is filled with distortions, many of which are required by law, that drive spending higher. Rep. Grothman’s Stop the Baseline Bloat Act would help fix this problem by removing the assumption that one-time emergency appropriations are repeated each year in the baseline – a distortion that effectively bakes ‘emergency’ spending into the baseline for future spending,” said Brittany Madni, Executive Vice President of the Economic Policy Innovation Center (EPIC).

    “One-time emergency spending can artificially inflate the baseline produced by the Congressional Budget Office, creating the opportunity for lawmakers to use fake savings as an offset. We appreciate the efforts of Representative Glenn Grothman (R-WI) to improve the budget process and provide greater transparency by removing emergency spending from CBO’s baseline,” said Maya MacGuineas, President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

    “Under current baseline rules, CBO and OMB must assume that emergency spending will increase from its prior year level by an amount equal to inflation.  Since this may be a one-time outlay, including it this way artificially inflates the baseline, particularly in years with large amounts of emergency spending.  Lower levels of emergency spending in the future would then appear to generate budget savings.  I support removing emergency spending from the CBO baseline as a common-sense solution to this problem,” said Keith Hall, the former Director of the Congressional Budget Office.

    “The Stop the Baseline Bloat Act, recently introduced by Reps. Glenn Grothman (RWI), Ed Case (D-HI), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), and Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), strikes emergency spending from the budget baseline. This change would make CBO’s baseline less biased toward higher spending. The congressional practice of relying on emergency appropriations to fund ongoing issues poses a significant challenge to fiscal responsibility and undermines the integrity of the budget process,” said Romina Boccia and Dominik Lett from Cato Institute.

    Background Information

    Currently, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) is required to create its baseline budget with the assumption that discretionary spending, including one-time emergency spending, grows each year with inflation.

    This assumption is at odds with OMB’s definition of emergency spending, which is meant exclusively for one-time outlays. Including emergency spending in the baseline distorts the fiscal picture and allows Congress to claim credit for artificial savings.

    Rep. Grothman (R-WI), Rep. Case (D-HI), Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), and Rep. Stutzman (R-IN) will reintroduce the bipartisan Stop the Baseline Bloat Act to remove emergency spending and supplemental appropriations from the CBO baseline. This reform has a history of bipartisan support and was a key piece of the Senate’s 2019 Enzi-Whitehouse budget reform package, the Bipartisan Congressional Budget Reform Act.

    This bill will end a costly distortion in the CBO baseline which artificially bloats the baseline and has led to more red ink.

    Rep. Grothman and Rep. Case introduced a similar version of the bill in April 2024.

    The Stop the Baseline Bloat Act is cosponsored by: Representatives Ben Cline (R-VA), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Adam Gray (D-CA), and Jared Golden (D-ME).

    -30- 

    U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) proudly serves the people of Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Curbing malnutrition with AI

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Curbing malnutrition with AI

    The value of prevention

    Led by USC experts, the collaborative team is in the process of building a tool that allows Amref, other humanitarian organizations, and policymakers to directly access the predictive model and understand diverse data sources. When combined with other publicly available sources like satellite imagery, one of Microsoft’s key capabilities, data from the Kenyan Ministry of Health can be used to understand the severity of malnutrition in children across Kenya. The model is trained on data that’s being collected in more than 100 countries, and the team hopes it can be adapted to address malnutrition and other health concerns around the world.  

    “This work is not only helping mitigate malnutrition risks among children in Kenya, but also preparing us to help tackle this problem globally,” says Dr. Bistra Dilkina, co-director of the USC Center for AI in Society, and associate professor of computer science. 

    More accurate information and predictions will enable Amref and others to position resources to prevent malnutrition. 

    “The dashboard will change the way partners intervene, enabling them to do evidence-based and timely interventions,” says Dr. Girmaw Abede Tadesse, Principal Research Science Manager, Microsoft AI for Good Lab. 

    The mission of the Kenyan Ministry of Health is to have a globally competitive, healthy and productive nation so they can grow economically. The model helps achieve this by organizing resources around planning and budgeting. Malnutrition can be better solved with AI through prediction in the monitoring and evaluation process, which helps conserve resources. The food and nutrition dashboard has the potential to save lives, improve lives, and enhance the quality of life. 

    TRANSFORM is Amref’s new 2023-2030 global strategy that champions and supports the people of Africa to have quality and accessible health services. Amref is achieving this through community-led, people-centered primary health systems that address social determinants of health. The new predictive model will help them achieve their goals by showing the risk profiles of malnutrition across different groups, giving them the flexibility to identify hotspots and intervene at the right time. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Eswatini Minister of Agriculture Tshawuka

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Eswatini Minister of Agriculture Tshawuka

    • Date：2025-05-29
    • Data Source：Department of West Asian and African Affairs

    May 29, 2025  
    No. 187  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon on May 29 in honor of a delegation led by Eswatini Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka. During the luncheon, Minister Lin welcomed Minister Tshawuka on behalf of the government as the two sides shared views on agricultural exchanges and cooperation. Minister Lin also thanked Eswatini for its long-term steadfast support of Taiwan’s participation in the international community.

     

    In his remarks, Minister Lin pointed out that Eswatini was Taiwan’s staunch ally in Africa and thanked H.M. King Mswati III and the Eswatini government for their long-term support of bilateral diplomatic relations. He said that agriculture was one of the kingdom’s major industries and stressed that there had long been close collaboration between Taiwan and Eswatini in this area. Taiwan, he continued, was willing to share its developmental experience and know-how with Eswatini and would continue to implement more joint projects through the Taiwan Technical Mission of the International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF). Under the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, Taiwan would utilize its technological prowess to help Eswatini promote a smart agriculture transition and increase food security which, he said, would bolster Eswatini’s economic development and improve the welfare of the people. 

     

    In his remarks, Minister Tshawuka thanked Taiwan for having provided assistance for Eswatini’s agriculture, especially the Taiwan-Africa Vegetable Initiative, a joint endeavor by the World Vegetable Center and the Taiwan government. This project had helped Eswatini to preserve the seeds of vegetables native to Africa and to advance the promotion of and education on the kingdom’s traditional vegetable crops, thereby increasing local food supply and benefiting the people. Minister Tshawuka also stated that the Taiwan-Eswatini relationship was strong and that the Eswatini government would continue to support Taiwan at international events and work with Taiwan to promote mutually beneficial cooperation.

     

    Also in attendance at the luncheon were Eswatini Ambassador to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Promise Msibi, Ambassador-at-Large Richard Soong, Ministry of Agriculture Director-General of International Affairs Hsiou Dong-chong, TaiwanICDF Secretary General Huang Yu-lin, World Vegetable Center Director General Marco Wopereis, and Mt. Dadu Industrial Innovation Foundation CEO Liao Tsu-chen. The guests exchanged views with Minister Tshawuka on a wide variety of issues relating to Taiwan-Eswatini collaboration on smart agriculture as well as Eswatini’s agricultural development.

     

    Taiwan and Eswatini have had diplomatic relations for 57 years and enjoy close ties in the area of agriculture. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to work with the government of Eswatini to promote the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project and develop a mutually beneficial relationship that contributes to the welfare of both nations’ people, thus bringing bilateral cooperation to a new level. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin meets with Eswatini delegation led by Foreign Minister Shakantu

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    June 4, 2025  
    No. 194  

    On the afternoon of June 4, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung met with a delegation from the Kingdom of Eswatini led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Pholile Shakantu. During their meeting, they had an extensive exchange of views on such topics as bilateral cooperation, trade, and investment. 
     

    In his remarks, Minister Lin stated that he had visited Eswatini in late April as presidential special envoy to join the birthday celebrations for King Mswati III. He added that this meeting with Minister Shakantu and other ministerial-level officials from Eswatini just over one month later demonstrated the close and frequent interactions between the two countries and symbolized the strength of their diplomatic alliance. 

     

    Minister Lin took the opportunity to express appreciation once again to King Mswati III and the Eswatini government for their long-standing and staunch support for Taiwan in the international arena, such as at the recently concluded World Health Assembly, the United Nations, and other multilateral forums. He stressed that Eswatini’s consistent advocacy for Taiwan had touched the hearts of the people of Taiwan. 

     

    Minister Lin said that during his trip to Eswatini in April, he and King Mswati III had discussed such topics as strengthening bilateral economic, trade, investment, and tourism exchanges, as well as Taiwan’s assistance in building 5G smart cities and developing energy resources in Eswatini. He expressed confidence that the close collaboration between the two countries would spur Eswatini’s national development and better ensure the welfare of both peoples, stating that this would realize Taiwan’s vision of advancing allies’ prosperity and demonstrate that Taiwan could help and that Eswatini could serve as a leader on the African continent. 

     

    Minister Shakantu thanked Minister Lin for rapidly formulating a series of concrete plans following his trip to Eswatini in April that would advance bilateral cooperation and Eswatini’s development, underscoring Taiwan’s high regard for and steadfast commitment to its allies. She also expressed the hope to see greater investment and more tourists from Taiwan in Eswatini through the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, thereby fueling bilateral exchanges.  

     

    Earlier on June 4, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chihchung Wu hosted a luncheon for the delegation. Attendees at the luncheon included International Trade Administration Secretary General Amelia W. J. Day, Export-Import Bank of the ROC President Hsieh Fu-hua, Hua Nan Bank Vice Chairman T. Lin, MOFA Department of International Cooperation and Economic Affairs Director General Lien Yu-ping, and MOFA Department of West Asian and African Affairs Deputy Director General Chen Yung-po. They exchanged views with the members of the Eswatini delegation on a variety of issues. 

     

    Eswatini is an important diplomatic ally of Taiwan in Africa. MOFA will continue to maintain close interactions with the Eswatini government and actively seek to enhance mutually beneficial collaboration in all fields so as to realize the vision of advancing allies’ prosperity and thereby deepen and consolidate diplomatic relations between the two countries. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: BoldSign® Wins Developer’s Choice in the 2025 Postman API Network Awards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Syncfusion®, Inc., the enterprise technology provider of choice, today announced that its eSignature solution, BoldSign®, won the Postman Developer’s Choice Award. Selected by Postman’s worldwide developer community, the award spotlights APIs that deliver exceptional user experience, measurable business value, and active community engagement. Syncfusion coming in at number one is a result of its commitment to building tools that developers and businesses trust.

    “BoldSign started with a simple goal: give developers an eSignature API that lets them plug in, sign, and ship without friction,” said Daniel Jebaraj, CEO of Syncfusion. “This award tells us we’re on the right path and motivates us to keep raising the bar with features that help our customers move their products forward.”

    Businesses choose BoldSign due to its:

    • Fast, friction-free signing: Legally binding signatures captured in seconds.
    • Easy implementation: Most teams roll out in under a day with no heavy IT lifting.
    • Web-to-mobile flexibility: Seamless experience for in-office and on-the-go staff.
    • Bank-grade security and compliance: Robust encryption and compliance with SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and eIDAS regulations.
    • Scalability: Usage-based plans stay cost-effective for individuals, startups, and large enterprises.
    • Real-time human support: Direct access to BoldSign experts whenever questions arise.
    • Customer-driven roadmap: Continuous feature drops shaped by user feedback.

    “Winning Developer’s Choice is both humbling and energizing,” added Jebaraj. “We’re just getting started—look for new features, expanded SDKs, and deeper integrations so teams can scale from 10 to a million documents without switching platforms.”

    Learn more about the BoldSign® eSignature APIs in Postman. For more information about fast, secure, and scalable eSignature functionality in BoldSign, visit its website.

    About Syncfusion, Inc.
    Headquartered in the technology hub of Research Triangle Park, N.C., Syncfusion®, Inc. delivers an award-winning ecosystem of developer control suites, embeddable BI platforms, and business software. Syncfusion was founded in 2001 with a single software component and a mission to support businesses of all sizes—from individual developers and start-ups to Fortune 500 enterprises. Though its pilot product, the Essential Studio® suite, has grown to over 1,900 developer controls, its mission remains the same. With offices in the U.S., India, and Kenya, Syncfusion prioritizes the customer experience by providing feature-rich solutions to help developers and enterprises solve complex problems, save money, and build high-performance, robust applications.

    Contact: Brittany Kearns
    Phone: 571-271-7211
    Email: brittany@crossroadsb2b.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Orange Middle East and Africa and risingSUD join forces to facilitate the establishment and development of startups in the South of France

    At the Viva Technology trade show in Paris, Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA) (www.Orange.com), represented by its CEO Jérôme Hénique, and risingSUD, represented by its President Bernard Kleynhoff, signed a strategic partnership to support the establishment and growth of African startups in the Orange Digital Center network in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, in the South of France.

    This three-year partnership aims to bring together innovation ecosystems in Africa, the Middle East, and the South of France. Specifically, startups from the Orange Digital Center network will benefit from tailored support from the teams at risingSUD, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region’s economic attractiveness and development agency, to establish themselves in the South of France. They will thus join a dynamic region that is already home to 500,000 companies, including global leaders and startups that are inventing the world of tomorrow.

    With this partnership, OMEA strengthens its support for the internationalization of startups from Africa and the Middle East and reaffirms its commitment to developing the continent’s entrepreneurial ecosystems. Deployed in 17 countries in Africa and the Middle East and eight countries in Europe, the Orange Digital Center network is a free and accessible ecosystem for all. It brings together, in one place, digital skills training for young people, support for project leaders, incubation, acceleration, and startup financing.

    In 2024 alone, risingSUD supported the establishment of 14 African companies in the South of France, including the startup from the Orange Digital Center in Tunisia, Guépard, which opened an office in Marseille. This partnership will allow more startups from Africa and the Middle East to benefit from risingSUD’s expertise, ranging from project development to access to financing and networking with international partners. It will also facilitate access for talent and startups from the South region to the Orange Digital Centers network.

    ​​​Jérôme Hénique, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa, commented: “This partnership with risingSUD marks a key step in our ambition to promote African innovation internationally. It is a continuation of the support we offer startups through our Orange Digital Centers. By facilitating their establishment and acceleration in France, particularly in the South region, we are giving young African companies the means to accelerate their growth.”

    Bernard Kleynhoff, President of risingSUD and President of the Economic and Digital Development, Industry, Export, Attractiveness and Cybersecurity Commissions of the Sud Region, added: “Thanks to its strategic position, its historical trade flows and its commitment to innovation, the South of France is a natural bridge between Europe, Africa and the Middle East. It is now the leading French region for hosting African investment projects. This partnership opens up new economic opportunities and constitutes a real springboard for the development of businesses on both sides of the Mediterranean.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Orange Middle East and Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Eswatini Minister of Agriculture Tshawuka

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Eswatini Minister of Agriculture Tshawuka

    Date：2025-05-29
    Data Source：Department of West Asian and African Affairs

    May 29, 2025  No. 187  Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon on May 29 in honor of a delegation led by Eswatini Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka. During the luncheon, Minister Lin welcomed Minister Tshawuka on behalf of the government as the two sides shared views on agricultural exchanges and cooperation. Minister Lin also thanked Eswatini for its long-term steadfast support of Taiwan’s participation in the international community.
     
    In his remarks, Minister Lin pointed out that Eswatini was Taiwan’s staunch ally in Africa and thanked H.M. King Mswati III and the Eswatini government for their long-term support of bilateral diplomatic relations. He said that agriculture was one of the kingdom’s major industries and stressed that there had long been close collaboration between Taiwan and Eswatini in this area. Taiwan, he continued, was willing to share its developmental experience and know-how with Eswatini and would continue to implement more joint projects through the Taiwan Technical Mission of the International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF). Under the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, Taiwan would utilize its technological prowess to help Eswatini promote a smart agriculture transition and increase food security which, he said, would bolster Eswatini’s economic development and improve the welfare of the people. 
     
    In his remarks, Minister Tshawuka thanked Taiwan for having provided assistance for Eswatini’s agriculture, especially the Taiwan-Africa Vegetable Initiative, a joint endeavor by the World Vegetable Center and the Taiwan government. This project had helped Eswatini to preserve the seeds of vegetables native to Africa and to advance the promotion of and education on the kingdom’s traditional vegetable crops, thereby increasing local food supply and benefiting the people. Minister Tshawuka also stated that the Taiwan-Eswatini relationship was strong and that the Eswatini government would continue to support Taiwan at international events and work with Taiwan to promote mutually beneficial cooperation.
     
    Also in attendance at the luncheon were Eswatini Ambassador to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Promise Msibi, Ambassador-at-Large Richard Soong, Ministry of Agriculture Director-General of International Affairs Hsiou Dong-chong, TaiwanICDF Secretary General Huang Yu-lin, World Vegetable Center Director General Marco Wopereis, and Mt. Dadu Industrial Innovation Foundation CEO Liao Tsu-chen. The guests exchanged views with Minister Tshawuka on a wide variety of issues relating to Taiwan-Eswatini collaboration on smart agriculture as well as Eswatini’s agricultural development.
     
    Taiwan and Eswatini have had diplomatic relations for 57 years and enjoy close ties in the area of agriculture. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to work with the government of Eswatini to promote the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project and develop a mutually beneficial relationship that contributes to the welfare of both nations’ people, thus bringing bilateral cooperation to a new level. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin meets with Eswatini delegation led by Foreign Minister Shakantu

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    June 4, 2025  No. 194  On the afternoon of June 4, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung met with a delegation from the Kingdom of Eswatini led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Pholile Shakantu. During their meeting, they had an extensive exchange of views on such topics as bilateral cooperation, trade, and investment.  
    In his remarks, Minister Lin stated that he had visited Eswatini in late April as presidential special envoy to join the birthday celebrations for King Mswati III. He added that this meeting with Minister Shakantu and other ministerial-level officials from Eswatini just over one month later demonstrated the close and frequent interactions between the two countries and symbolized the strength of their diplomatic alliance. 
     
    Minister Lin took the opportunity to express appreciation once again to King Mswati III and the Eswatini government for their long-standing and staunch support for Taiwan in the international arena, such as at the recently concluded World Health Assembly, the United Nations, and other multilateral forums. He stressed that Eswatini’s consistent advocacy for Taiwan had touched the hearts of the people of Taiwan. 
     
    Minister Lin said that during his trip to Eswatini in April, he and King Mswati III had discussed such topics as strengthening bilateral economic, trade, investment, and tourism exchanges, as well as Taiwan’s assistance in building 5G smart cities and developing energy resources in Eswatini. He expressed confidence that the close collaboration between the two countries would spur Eswatini’s national development and better ensure the welfare of both peoples, stating that this would realize Taiwan’s vision of advancing allies’ prosperity and demonstrate that Taiwan could help and that Eswatini could serve as a leader on the African continent. 
     
    Minister Shakantu thanked Minister Lin for rapidly formulating a series of concrete plans following his trip to Eswatini in April that would advance bilateral cooperation and Eswatini’s development, underscoring Taiwan’s high regard for and steadfast commitment to its allies. She also expressed the hope to see greater investment and more tourists from Taiwan in Eswatini through the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, thereby fueling bilateral exchanges.  
     
    Earlier on June 4, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chihchung Wu hosted a luncheon for the delegation. Attendees at the luncheon included International Trade Administration Secretary General Amelia W. J. Day, Export-Import Bank of the ROC President Hsieh Fu-hua, Hua Nan Bank Vice Chairman T. Lin, MOFA Department of International Cooperation and Economic Affairs Director General Lien Yu-ping, and MOFA Department of West Asian and African Affairs Deputy Director General Chen Yung-po. They exchanged views with the members of the Eswatini delegation on a variety of issues. 
     
    Eswatini is an important diplomatic ally of Taiwan in Africa. MOFA will continue to maintain close interactions with the Eswatini government and actively seek to enhance mutually beneficial collaboration in all fields so as to realize the vision of advancing allies’ prosperity and thereby deepen and consolidate diplomatic relations between the two countries. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Significant progress in Eastern Cape power restoration

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Significant progress has been made in restoring electricity supply to areas affected by severe weather conditions in the Eastern Cape over the past 48 hours.

    Gale force winds, heavy snowfall, and damaging gusts have left thousands in the province without power earlier this week.

    According to a statement issued on Wednesday, Eskom Eastern Cape Distribution, electricity had been restored to approximately 136 000 customers, marking a substantial improvement from 300 000 customers that were without power as of Tuesday morning.

    “Some of the customers brough back online include over 50 000 in Umzimvubu and Elundini Local Municipalities, 15 000 within Port St Johns Local Municipality, and 20 000 customers in Tsolo within King Mhlontlo Local Municipality. Electricity to all these customers was restored yesterday evening [Tuesday].

    “Eskom teams have resumed this morning to continue with the restoration efforts to the outstanding 164 000 customers in areas that include Qumbu, Matatiele, Mthatha, Ntabankulu, Bizana, Mqanduli, and Willowvalley,” Eskom said.

    The entity has urged the remaining customers to be patient and to continue treating all electricity appliances as live during this period.

    “As the weather is starting to clear, we trust that there will be access to some of the sites to speed up electricity supply restoration.”

    Eskom has also urged affected customers to remain patient and treat all electrical appliances as live for safety reasons.

    Customers are reminded to use the available platforms to report supply issues including: 
    •    Alfred the Chatbot by connecting to https://alfred.eskom.co.za/chatroom/. 
    •    USSD string: Dial *120*37566# on any mobile phones.
    •    MyEskom Customer App: Available on Google Play Store for Android devices and iPhone App Store for iPhone.

    “Customers now have the option of contacting Eskom directly via WhatsApp on 08600 37566 to log a fault or use email: EasternCape@Eskom.co.za,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Belgium: Independent UN body finds systemic racism against Africans and people of African descent

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    Download logo

    The UN International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in Law Enforcement called on Belgium to take concrete steps to address the legacies of its colonial past and fight what it said was widespread, systematic racism that still permeates the nation today.

    The call came on the final day of a 10-day visit that began 2 June. Experts Tracie Keesee and Victor Rodriguez visited Brussels, Namur, Charleroi, Antwerp, and Mechelen.

    “Community members told us that they want to be treated as humans, that nothing has changed and nothing is changing, that diversions and political complexities are used to keep from committing to true change,” said Keesee. “They also explained the great work they do within their communities and expressed their commitment to work with the authorities to bring about meaningful change.”

    The experts recognized several good practices; for instance, the existence of a specialized police watchdog outside of the executive power and a centralised internal police control body, as well as the grants to some civil society organizations working to combat racism. “These practices can serve as a model for other States,” Rodriguez said.

    However, the experts concluded that Africans and people of African descent, as well as other persons perceived as “foreigners” – including Belgian nationals and persons born in Belgium – face systemic racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.

    “Systemic racism permeates all sectors of society, including in law enforcement and the criminal justice system,” said Keesee. “It is a legacy of enslavement and colonialism, whose long-lasting impacts continue to be felt today. Belgium must continue to take concrete steps towards reparatory justice by confronting the legacies of its history, with the effective participation of affected communities.”

    The Mechanism heard testimonies of racial profiling and of excessive use of force by the police against Africans and people of African descent, including against children. “These cases are a clear illustration of systemic racism against these communities, which severely impacts trust in law enforcement institutions,” Rodriguez said.

    The Mechanism also witnessed very good community policing practices, which it said should be expanded and strengthened. “We visited police zones that have wonderful practices to bring the police closer to the population and vice versa, including programmes that encourage racialized and vulnerable young people to join the police, something that is lacking in Belgium,” Keesee said.

    The experts emphasized how the challenging and stressful nature of law enforcement work directly affects the mental health and well-being of officers, and how this can impact the way they perform their duty and their interactions with the communities they serve. “Peer support groups, and mental health resources should be readily available in support of officers,” Keesee said.

    The Mechanism also addressed overcrowding in prisons with disproportionate incarceration of Africans, people of African descent, and people of foreign origin. It noted the use of prisons for administrative migration detention and as mental health detention facilities.

    The experts thanked the Government for its invitation and for the smooth cooperation in organizing the visit. They also thanked all institutions and stakeholders who met with them and provided valuable information.

    During their visit, members of the Mechanism met with a wide range of governmental stakeholders, including police departments, federal and regional ministries and authorities, city authorities, and other specialized organs, including the Standing Commission of the Local Police, the Committee P, and the General Inspectorate of the Federal and Local Police.

    The experts also met human rights institutions, including Unia, the Flemish Institute of Human Rights, and the Federal Institute of Human Rights, and visited the Museum of Central Africa in Tervuren and the memorial museum of Kazerne Dossin in Mechelen. They also visited the administrative detention centre for migrants “Caricole,” the Namur prison, and the local police zones of PolBru and BruWest, in Brussels.

    The Mechanism shared its preliminary observations and recommendations with the Belgian Government earlier today. The full findings of its visit will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council at its 60th session in September/October 2025.

    – on behalf of United Nations: Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Youth Charter Joins United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Celebrating International Day of Play: “Choose Play – Every Day”

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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    The Youth Charter (www.YouthCharter.org) proudly marks UNICEF’s International Day of Play under the global theme “Choose Play – Every Day”, standing in solidarity with children and young people worldwide to champion the universal right to play.

    This year’s theme serves as a powerful reminder to governments, corporations, educators, families, and communities to make daily choices that protect, promote and prioritise play in the lives of every child and young person. Play is not a luxury – it is essential to physical, mental, emotional and social development. It builds resilience, nurtures creativity, and strengthens inclusion, especially in times of adversity.

    In alignment with this, the Youth Charter continues to deliver on its Global Call to Action, launched at the UN Summit of the Future, to ensure that sport, art, culture, and digital innovation are recognised as vital tools of development and peace in the lives of children and youth.

    Prof. Geoff Thompson MBE FRSA DL, Youth Charter Founder and Chair, stated:

    “Play is a universal language – a bridge that connects young people to opportunity, potential and hope. On this International Day of Play, we reaffirm our mission to create safe, inclusive, and accessible environments where young people everywhere can play, learn, and grow. From our Community Campuses in London to our programmes across Africa and the Caribbean, play is the foundation of our work and a right we will never stop advocating for.”

    As we move towards 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Youth Charter calls on partners, policymakers and people of influence to embed play into education, urban design, health, and youth policy frameworks – especially in underserved and marginalised communities.

    Join the Movement

    The Youth Charter invites individuals and organisations to:

    • Support and share the Global Call to Action at www.YouthCharter.org
    • Host local play-based events across Community Campuses and schools
    • Advocate for investment in inclusive, safe spaces for sport and creative expression
    • Listen to and uplift the voices of young people in decisions that affect their lives

    Let us all “Choose Play – Every Day” and commit to a world where every child and young person can live, learn and thrive.

    – on behalf of Youth Charter.

    Media Contact:
    Youth Charter Communications Team
    media@youthcharter.org
    www.YouthCharter.org
    +44 (0)161 998 9555

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: GE Vernova-Larsen & Toubro Consortium to Build Advanced National System Control Center (NSCC) for the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) in Kenya

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    • New centers being built at Embakasi and Suswa with advanced grid technology for efficient electricity transmission.
    • GE Vernova to provide advanced grid technology and software, with Larsen & Toubro handling all civil works. 
    • Project financed by France through the French Development Agency and the French Treasury.

    GE Vernova Inc.(NYSE:GEV) (www.GEVernova.com) today announced that the GE Vernova-Larsen & Toubro (L&T) consortium will build an advanced National System Control Center (NSCC) for Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) to monitor and manage Kenya’s national electricity grid. The work will include constructing a Main Control Centre building in Embakasi, equipped with advanced grid software solutions and the latest substation automation, monitoring, and communication equipment. Additionally, an Emergency Control Centre building in Suswa will be constructed, featuring the same systems and an Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) system for transmission operations. GE Vernova booked the order in the first quarter of 2025.

    Kenya’s Electricity Goals

    Kenya has set ambitious electricity goals aimed at achieving universal access and transitioning to a sustainable energy future. The country aims to ensure that 100% of its population has access to reliable and affordable electricity by 2030 (https://apo-opa.co/4dXKxLr). To achieve this, Kenya is investing heavily in expanding its electricity grid and enhancing generation capacity. Additionally, Kenya is focusing on enhancing energy efficiency and developing smart grid technologies to optimize electricity transmission, distribution and consumption.

    “A new, advanced NSCC is essential for managing increased electricity demand as Kenya’s economy grows. When commissioned, the new NSCC system would play a critical role in supporting our mandate as System Operator(SO). It will ensure reliable, secure, and efficient electricity transmission across the country. It is a game-changer for Kenya’s electricity transmission capabilities, significantly improving our ability to manage the grid, enhance the quality of power, and integrate renewable energy sources,” said Dr. Eng. John Mativo, MBS, Managing Director and CEO at KETRACO.

    Consortium Roles and Responsibilities

    GE Vernova, through its French entity Grid Solutions SAS, will lead the consortium and provide advanced grid technology from its Electrification Software and Grid Automation portfolio. This technology includes two solutions from its GridOS® orchestration software portfolio—Advanced Energy Management Systems (AEMS) (https://apo-opa.co/43XaPc4) and Wide Area Management Systems (WAMS) (https://apo-opa.co/3ZpEj0V)—Enterprise Asset Management Systems (EAM), and several solutions from its grid automation portfolio – GridBeats™ (https://apo-opa.co/444Wqee) – Asset Performance Management System (APM), Condition Monitoring devices (https://apo-opa.co/4kCf9on), Substation Automation Systems (https://apo-opa.co/4kyVG7V), and Telecommunication Systems (https://apo-opa.co/3HPMbCK). Larsen & Toubro will handle all civil works, including the construction of two fully equipped greenfield control center buildings, equipment installation, and support for system configuration, testing, and commissioning. The project is expected to be completed within three years.

    “GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to handle projects of this scale and complexity, requiring both advanced software solutions and grid automation equipment, as well as unique financing solutions. With our comprehensive capabilities in managing such projects end-to-end, we believe KETRACO will significantly benefit from GE Vernova’s expertise, ensuring seamless integration and operational efficiency from project inception to completion,” said Philippe Piron, CEO of GE Vernova’s Electrification Systems businesses. “By providing Kenya with an advanced electricity control center, we’re aiming to enhance the reliability and efficiency of its national grid. This is a pivotal step in paving the way for a more sustainable future that supports the country’s electrification and decarbonization goals.”

    Financial and Development Support

    The project is made possible through a financing partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD) and the French Treasury, which are providing vital support to KETRACO for the development of a stronger and more sustainable electricity grid in Kenya. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing Kenya’s energy goals by enabling more reliable and efficient power infrastructure.

    “France is committed to supporting sustainable infrastructure projects in Kenya, notably in the Power sector, as part of the broader ongoing collaboration between Kenya and France on energy transition and climate. A modern NSCC will make the Kenyan grid more resilient and reliable, enabling the integration of more variable renewable energy and ultimately providing more reliable and affordable power to Kenya’s businesses and households. The project is fully financed by France with two separate and complementary financing from AFD and the French Treasury, supported by a related grand from the European Union dedicated to Capacity building,” said H.E Arnaud Suquet, the French Ambassador to Kenya.

    GE Vernova’s Financial Services business played an integral role in the procurement process, advising the consortium and securing concessional financing from the French Treasury to supplement AFD’s funding. This seamless partnership showcases the importance of combining technical expertise with innovative financing to deliver impactful, future-ready energy solutions.

    – on behalf of GE.

    Notes to Editors:
    A National System Control Center (NSCC) is like a central brain of a country’s electricity grid. It’s responsible for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the flow of electricity across the entire power system. It can also effectively integrate renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal into the grid. Real-time monitoring allows for prompt corrective actions, improving grid stability and reducing the risk of power outages and blackouts.

    Media Contact – GE Vernova:
    Rachel Van Reen
    Media Relations
    GE Vernova
    rachael.vanreen@gevernova.com
    +1 678 896 6754

    Anshul Madaan
    Media Relations
    GE Vernova
    anshul.madaan@gevernova.com
    +91 8377880468

    Winnie Gathage
    Africa Communications Leader
    GE Vernova
    winnie.gathage@gevernova.com
    +254 704 873 459

    Media Contact – KETRACO:
    Raphael Mworia
    Manager, Corporate Communications
    rmworia@ketraco.co.ke
    +254 702 949 951
    +254 719 018 000

    Social Media:
    Linkedin: https://apo-opa.co/3HAtinq

    About GE Vernova:
    GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) is a purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world’s challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with approximately 75,000 employees across 100+ countries around the world. Supported by the Company’s purpose, The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova technology helps deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova (www.GEVernova.com) and GE Vernova in Middle East & Africa (https://apo-opa.co/3Tjv0vT).

    GE Vernova’s Electrification segment includes Grid Solutions, Power Conversion, Solar and Storage Solutions, —collectively referred to as Electrification Systems —and digital technologies, referred to as Electrification Software. The solutions offered by this segment are essential for the transmission, distribution, conversion, storage, and orchestration of electricity from point of generation to point of consumption.​

    About KETRACO:
    KETRACO, owned by the Government of Kenya, was incorporated on 2nd December 2008 under the Companies Act, pursuant to the reforms in Sessional Paper No.4 to plan, design, construct, own, operate, and maintain high voltage national electricity transmission lines and regional power inter-connector which form the backbone of the National Electricity Grid.

    In carrying out its mandate, the Company is developing a new robust grid system to:

    1. Improve quality, reliability, and safety of electricity supply throughout the Country.
    2. Transmit electricity to areas that are currently not supplied by the national grid.
    3. Evacuate power from planned generation points.
    4. Provide a link with the neighbouring countries to facilitate power exchange and trade in the East Africa Region
    5. Reduce electricity transmission losses hence reducing the cost to the economy.
    6. Protect electricity consumers from the high costs of power by absorbing the capital transmission infrastructure.

    Forward Looking Statements:
    ​    This document contains forward-looking statements – that is, statements related to future events that by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. These forward-looking statements address GE Vernova’s expected future business and financial performance, and the expected performance of its products, the impact of its services and the results they may generate or produce, and often contain words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “see,” “will,” “would,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “target,” “preliminary,” or “range.” Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain, such as statements about planned and potential transactions, investments or projects and their expected results and the impacts of macroeconomic and market conditions and volatility on business operations, financial results and financial position and on the global supply chain and world economy.

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Effective Achievements in Ensuring Blood Supply

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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    Mr. Bereket Mosazgi, secretary of the National Voluntary Blood Donors Association, reported that significant achievements have been registered in ensuring a consistent blood supply to health facilities through voluntary blood donation. Mr. Bereket made the comment in connection with World Blood Donation Day, 14 June.

    Noting that the annual blood demand of the National Blood Transfusion Service ranges from 12,000 to 15,000 units, Mr. Bereket stated that voluntary blood donations, which were fewer than 10,000 units in 2019, surpassed 16,000 units in 2024. This, he said, reflects the growing public awareness.

    Mr. Bereket noted that the main objective of the association is to ensure a sustainable blood supply to health facilities. He stated that the association is expanding its network, improving its systems, and working closely with partners to meet its goals.

    He also mentioned that the number of active members has reached 12,000 and that 67 institutions regularly donate blood voluntarily, in addition to numerous individuals and group donors.

    World Blood Donation Day, 14 June, will be observed under the theme “Give Blood, Give Hope: Together We Save Lives”, featuring various programs highlighting the importance of the day.

    – on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Meeting Focusing on Empowering Women

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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    The National Union of Eritrean Women branch in the Northern Red Sea Region organized a meeting on 8 June for women from various institutions, aimed at enhancing women’s overall capacity.

    At the meeting, Ms. Helen Meketa from the central office of the National Union of Eritrean Women gave a briefing, accompanied by historical examples, on the experiences and struggles women have undergone at various stages in world history to secure their rights.

    Noting that the contribution of Eritrean women in the armed struggle for independence is acknowledged internationally and beyond the continental level, Ms. Helen called on women to take advantage of the educational opportunities provided by the Government and to become competitive and effective in the workplace.

    Mr. Saleh Nafi’e, head of organizational affairs at the union’s Northern Red Sea Region branch, stated that organizing meetings and seminars aimed at empowering young women is one of the main objectives of the union. He emphasized that active participation and the presentation of constructive ideas by women are crucial to fully realizing these objectives.

    The participants conducted extensive discussions on the issues raised during the meeting and adopted various recommendations.

    – on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Flooded Communities in or Tambo Region Must Heed Government Calls and Communication Around Weather, Says Committee Chair

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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    The Portfolio Committee on Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has called for urgent assistance to be provided to families affected by floods in the Eastern Cape, particularly in the province’s OR Tambo District, and the committee sends its sincere condolences to the families of those who died in the floods.

    The Chairperson of the committee, Ms Nqabisa Gantsho, has called on affected communities to act cautiously and follow official government communications and directives. “Provincial government in the Eastern Cape needs to move in and assist in every way possible particularly those who are without homes due to the floods. Flooding is going to be a common occurrence longer into the future, for so long as climate change is with us.

    “The committee therefore calls on the broader government to work out strategies to counter the effects of flooding and drought both of which are manifest climatic activity for climate change. The Eastern Cape government should accurately quantify those affected and avail support as per the need,” Ms Gantsho said.

    Most of South Africa was affected by two cold fronts over the weekend, bringing wet, cold and snow to the western parts of the country and floods in the Eastern Cape.

    Ms Gantsho said the intensity and frequency of flooding around the country is an ongoing concern and flood victims should not be accommodated longer than is necessary in temporary arrangements. “We reiterate that for purposes of settlement, our people should avoid building on plains, wetlands and low-lying areas that most often would be below the floodline,” she noted.

    Ms Gantsho also called on the Eastern Cape provincial government to ensure that school-going children, especially those who walk to school, are protected from dangerous weather conditions. “Families must report missing relatives to the relevant authorities especially if there has been no contact for longer than three hours at least.”

    – on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: A Tapestry of Triumph: A Celebration of Independence, Equality, and Inclusion

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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    Just several weeks ago, Eritreans across the country and around the world – joined by innumerable friends and well-wishers – joyously celebrated the nation’s hard-won independence. The occasion, along with the period surrounding it, was marked by spirited festivities, exuberant gatherings, and a huge outpouring of pride and excitement. Eritrea’s independence, achieved through immense sacrifice in both blood and treasure, holds profound significance. Accordingly, Independence Day – together with Martyrs Day, which is commemorated in June – is recognized as one of the most important and revered dates on the national calendar.

    A central and inspiring theme woven through the many events and activities, especially those held across various regions of Eritrea, was the celebration of the country’s rich and colourful diversity. For instance, attending events in Asmara provided a unique opportunity to witness and engage with individuals and groups that represented the broad tapestry of Eritrean society: men and women of all ages; residents from each of the country’s six administrative regions; followers of different religious faiths; people from various socioeconomic backgrounds; and members of the nation’s diverse ethnolinguistic communities.

    These inclusive gatherings fostered an atmosphere of warmth, camaraderie, and national pride, where people came together to smile, share in the joy, and celebrate their collective identity. More than just a commemoration of independence, the period served as a vivid and powerful expression of one of Eritrea’s most beautiful and defining attributes: peace and unity in diversity.

    Diversity – whether in terms of race, religion, ethnicity, language, or culture – can be a powerful catalyst for the flourishing of new perspectives, the birth of innovative ideas, and the cultivation of creativity and dynamism. It often acts as a driving force behind progress, enriching communities, societies, and nations alike. However, history – at both the global level and even the continental and regional level – offers many sobering examples where diversity, if poorly managed or misunderstood, has instead fuelled societal fragmentation, discord, and at times, violent conflict.

    As a multi-ethnic and multicultural nation, Eritrea has remained firmly committed to promoting peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and national unity. Its development and nation-building efforts are rooted in the foundational principles of equality and social justice. The country places unwavering emphasis on ensuring that all Eritreans – irrespective of ethnicity, religion, gender, or social status – have the right and opportunity to fully participate in, contribute to, and benefit from sustainable development.

    The country’s laws, regulations, and policies, anchored in deeply held socio-cultural values, create a robust framework for inclusive political, social, and economic development. National legislation expressly prohibits and penalizes discrimination, exclusion, or preference based on disability, ethnicity, colour, religion, socioeconomic background, language, gender, or any similar distinction.

    Over the past thirty years, Eritrea has developed and implemented a wide range of policies and legal instruments tailored to uplift and support vulnerable and marginalized groups. These include the poor, women, children, persons with disabilities, nomadic communities, and those living in remote or underserved regions.

    These interventions are designed to close social and economic gaps and to foster equitable opportunities across all segments of society. The objective is clear: to ensure that every Eritrean is empowered to pursue success and partake in the benefits of inclusive growth and national progress.

    To that end, essential health services are provided at no cost, and individuals with chronic illnesses or other serious conditions receive free medical care and necessary medications. Similarly, the country’s education policy guarantees free access to schooling from primary through tertiary levels. These commitments are bolstered by several complementary initiatives designed to promote inclusivity and equal opportunity, such as the mother-tongue education policy, adult literacy programs, and outreach learning efforts.

    An additional cornerstone of inclusive development – especially relevant given the large proportion of the population that resides in rural areas and depends on agriculture and pastoralism for livelihood – is the Minimum Integrated Household Agricultural Package (MIHAP). Launched in 2007, MIHAP has positively impacted thousands of rural households, including many headed by women. The package includes one improved dairy cow (or 12 goats), 25 chickens, two beehives, 20 trees (a mix of fruit-bearing, leguminous, and firewood species), a vegetable plot, cropland, and sustained technical support from Ministry of Agriculture experts. This comprehensive approach promotes food security, increases household income, and strengthens community resilience.

    In sum, Eritrea’s enduring dedication to social justice and equality has not only enhanced the inclusiveness and vibrancy of the nation but has also been instrumental in nurturing peace, stability, and cohesion. By valuing diversity and upholding the dignity of all its citizens, Eritrea continues to build a more united, equitable, and prosperous future. It is this very spirit – of unity in diversity, of resilience grounded in equality – that was so vividly on display during the recent Independence Day celebrations, offering a glimpse into the kind of future the nation continues to strive for.

    – on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Angola takes a decisive step towards ensuring safer, more effective, and more accessible medicines and health technologies

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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    Between June 3 and 5, the Angola Medicines and Health Technologies Regulatory Agency (ARMED), with technical support from World Health Organization (WHO) and funding from the European Union (EU), held a strategic meeting to monitor progress in implementing the recommendations made as part of the assessment of its regulatory maturity.

    The session was attended by 25 ARMED professionals and resulted in the drafting of the Institutional Development Plan (IDP), the aim of which is to strengthen the national regulatory system, bringing it into line with international standards, in a context in which the pharmaceutical sector is becoming increasingly attractive for investment.

    According to WHO Representative in Angola, Dr. Indrajit Hazarika, supervision is an essential pillar of the pharmaceutical sector, encompassing a complex network of production, distribution, and marketing medicines.

    Dr. Hazarika stressed that “medicines and medical products are fundamental for access to health care, and it is essential to guarantee their quality so that the goal of health for all can be achieved”.

    This meeting is part of WHO’s ongoing support to the Angolan government in strengthening the regulatory system. WHO experts from the Geneva headquarters and the Africa regional and national offices analyzed the Angolan regulatory system based on WHO Quality Management System principles and the international benchmarking tool – the Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT). 

    During the meeting, the progress made in implementing the technical recommendations was assessed, and a review was also made of the actions taken following the 2022 and February 2024 self-assessment exercises. The Institutional Development Plan (IDP) was updated in this context, a strategic document that will guide ARMED until 2027.

    The aim is to reach Maturity Level 3, internationally recognized as the benchmark for a functional regulatory system, capable of guaranteeing the availability of safe, effective, and quality medicines on the national market.

    Despite the progress already made, the pace of implementation needs to be accelerated. Holding regular meetings to follow up on the IDP is key to monitoring progress, identifying obstacles, adjusting strategies, and ensuring continued alignment with international standards. 

    In addition, these meetings also strengthen institutional commitment, promote transparency, and facilitate coordination between technical and financial partners.

    ARMED’s Director General, Dr. Pombal Mayembe, stressed the importance of the initiative. “At the World Health Assembly, there was extensive discussion about the local production of medicines. Angola cannot be left out of this movement. We want to reach level 3 of maturity by 2027. Is that possible? Yes, with the support of WHO, EU, and other partners, we are firmly committed to achieving this goal.”

    For his part, Pierre Destexhe, representing the European Union, highlighted ARMED’s role in controlling the quality of the national medicines market, as well as its contribution to ensuring that access to safe, quality medicines becomes an ever greater reality in Angola, within the scope of Universal Health Coverage.

    The meeting, which made it possible to assess progress and draw up ARMED’s IDP, represents a decisive step towards consolidating a robust regulatory system in Angola, reaffirming the government’s commitment to guaranteeing the population’s access to safe, quality medicines, while at the same time promoting local production based on international standards.

    – on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Angola.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Correctional Services Committee Raises Concern About Department’s Projected R1.4 Billion Over-Expenditure

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

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    The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services has raised its concerns about the Department of Correctional Services’ (DCS) over-expenditure, which is projected to reach R1.4 billion.

    Yesterday, the committee heard that the department’s year-to-date expenditure for the period ending 31 December 2024 is R21,6 billion (78%), while projected annual expenditure is R29,2 billion against the adjusted budget of R27,8 billion, which will result in projected overspending of R1,4 billion.

    The committee was briefed by the DCS on its second and third quarter performance report for the 2024/25 financial year.

    The projected overspending is due to a cost-of-living adjustment, effected in April 2024. In addition, the capital budget is underfunded by R222 million, constraining infrastructure upgrades and maintenance. Food costs have also surged, driven not only by inflation and a growing inmate population, but also by the rising number of foreign nationals housed in correctional facilities.

    The current budget is overspent due to rising municipal tariffs for electricity, water and sanitation, which have escalated above the consumer price index, creating further strain on the already stretched Goods and Services budget. The DCS also indicated that it faces fixed, inflexible costs for public–private partnership facilities, limiting room for reprioritisation.

    Additionally, the devolution of maintenance responsibilities from the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to DCS without a corresponding increase in the accommodation charges allocation has left a funding gap of R154 million. The information and technology branch’s budget in the DCS is also severely constrained, hampering efforts to modernise digital infrastructure and cybersecurity, the committee was informed.

    Committee Chairperson Ms Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng said: “Of course, we raised concerns about this trend. It is worrying although the factors for such overspending have been placed before us. We urged the department to tighten its belt, like using for example offender labour wherever possible in order to cut cost and that will result in a transfer of skills.”

    The committee heard that the DCS has implemented measures to curb projected over-expenditure of its budget vote by appointing a committee that is responsible for monitoring expenditure on a weekly basis. “We noted these interventions and hope that the corrective measures will bear fruit. We will need a report detailing progress regarding those measures,” emphasised Ms Ramolobeng.

    The DCS also reported that it has had 29 unnatural deaths in its facilities out of an inmate population of 160 353. Ms Ramolobeng said the committee has on numerous occasions raised concerns about inconsistencies in reporting between the DCS and Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services on the number of unnatural deaths. “Both parties need to sit down and come up with a way forward of how to address this reporting deficit. We want the DCS to submit a report to us following that sit-down meeting,” she said.

    – on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Empowering voices, cultivating resilience: Farmer Field Schools transform lives in Zimbabwe’s Sebungwe Landscape

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    In Zimbabwe’s Kariba District, a quiet transformation is taking place driven by knowledge, inclusion, and resilience. Supported by the Embassy of Ireland through UNDP and led by FAO in partnership with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, the ZRBF 2 bridging fund project “Resilience Building in the Sebungwe Landscape” is unlocking the potential of local communities to lead the way in climate-smart agriculture and natural resources management.

    Shifting mindsets: From command to collaboration

    Simbarashe Kashiri, a young extension officer in Ward 4, Kariba shared how the training changed his outlook. “I initially thought extension work was all about giving orders to farmers,” Simbarashe reflects. “But now I understand the power of facilitation. In the Kujatana FFS group I helped establish, farmers are making their own decisions, and they’re thriving.”
    That group, aptly named Kujatana (which means “working together” in the local language), has 88 percent women, and is already reaping the rewards of collaboration. They are cultivating tomatoes and producing organic compost from goat manure using the Bokashi method – a climate-smart practice that enhances soil fertility while promoting food security and sustainable farming.

    Simbarashe’s experience is just one among many inspired by the project’s holistic, community-driven approach. Across nine wards in Kariba, 13 AGRITEX officers have been trained in the FFS model, resulting in the establishment of 12 Farmer Field Schools. More than just learning hubs, these schools are becoming spaces of empowerment, experimentation, and collective problem-solving, particularly for women and youth, who are leading the way in building local resilience.

    Linking local knowledge with strategic objectives

    The FFS approach not only improves local agricultural practices but also aligns with national and global sustainability targets. It supports FAO’s Strategic Framework (2022–2031), which seeks to promote Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and a Better Life, leaving no one behind.

    “This project contributes directly to FAO’s Strategic Framework by promoting sustainable food systems and inclusive rural transformation through capacity building, climate-smart agriculture, and stakeholder engagement. The adoption of the Farmer Field School approach exemplifies how local innovation and empowerment are essential to achieving resilience and sustainable development,” said Alexander Carr the Resilience Building in the Sebungwe Landscape, Project Coordinator.

    The project supports UN SDGs 1, 2, and 10, reinforcing the right to food, gender equality, and decent rural livelihoods. “Particularly by advancing SDG Target 2.4 (sustainable food production systems) and promoting gender-sensitive value chains that create economic opportunities in rural areas,” asserted Obert Maminimini, FAO Crops and Extension Specialist.

    From chickens to chilies: Creating climate-smart livelihoods

    Through participatory processes involving over 240 farmers, seven climate-smart value chains were identified and analyzed: goats, cattle, indigenous chickens, sorghum, fish, sesame, and chilies. These value chains are being nurtured to enhance food and nutrition security, reduce environmental pressure, and increase household incomes.
    The promotion of these value chains reflects the project’s broader vision: to create a landscape of resilience, where ecological conservation and human development go hand in hand.

    Alongside community empowerment, the project has laid a strong technical foundation for sustainable development. A high-resolution Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) map was developed using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, and ecological connectivity for elephants was modelled to guide land planning. These tools are vital for aligning conservation priorities with local livelihoods.

    More than 20 institutional stakeholders, including local government, conservation agencies, traditional leaders, and NGOs were engaged in mapping and consultation processes. This level of participation is essential for ensuring community ownership and policy alignment.

    Collaboration for long-term impact

    The Sebungwe project is not a standalone effort. It builds upon previous work under the EU-funded SWM 2 initiative and integrates FAO’s GEF-7 supported Integrated Landscape Planning Model. Together with partners such as Nyaminyami Rural District Council, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, African Parks, and Peace Parks, the project lays the groundwork for a comprehensive, coordinated resilience-building strategy in Zimbabwe.

    In addition, the project’s success in integrating ecological and socio-economic priorities through land use planning, natural resources governance, and value chain development sets the stage for the larger European Union funded Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) Phase 2 implementation.

    – on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SUDAN – Kordofan, the new epicenter of the Sudanese conflict

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 11 June 2025 wars  

    Khartoum (Agenzia Fides) – The Kordofan region has become the main stage of the war that, since December 2023, has seen the Sudanese army (Sudan Armed Forces – SAF) against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).The region is divided into three federal states: North, South, and West Kordofan. Its strategic importance lies in its central location: it separates Darfur, the RSF’s western stronghold, from the eastern regions where the army has managed to expel the paramilitaries, especially from the Khartoum area.In response to this situation, the the army has deployed significant troops in the region, with easily accessible supply lines from the rear. They are currently advancing along the Saderat highway in an attempt to capture Bara, the largest city under RSF control in North Kordofan. In response, the RSF has launched attacks against government positions in Babanusa, in West Kordofan.Losing control of Kordofan would open the door for a direct enemy offensive in Darfur. Therefore, the paramilitaries led by Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo have declared a general mobilization to halt the army’s advance. Both sides have intensified drone attacks. The army has bombed RSF positions in Bara and Gabrat al-Sheikh—north and northwest of El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan, as well as in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur and a key RSF logistical hub. In turn, the paramilitaries have used drone attacks on military positions in El Obeid, a town controlled by the paramilitaries but virtually surrounded by the RSF. The conflict is increasingly taking on an international dimension. The SAF has accused the RSF, with the support of Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army, of attacking border posts in the border triangle between Libya, Egypt, and Sudan.In a statement, the Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced the UAE’s support for these actions, calling them a “dangerous escalation” and a “clear violation of international law.” “The border between Sudan and Libya has become a corridor for arms trafficking and mercenaries serving terrorist militias, financed by the UAE and coordinated by Haftar’s forces and other extremist groups,” the Ministry said. The accusations have been rejected by the Libyan general, although it is acknowledged that Haftar enjoys support from both the Emirates and Egypt, a country that is among the Sudanese army’s main allies. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 11/6/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: In its first gaming partnership, Louvre launches Age of Empires exhibition

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: In its first gaming partnership, Louvre launches Age of Empires exhibition

    Emma Bridle

    Today we are thrilled to announce that Age of Empires is partnering with the world’s most-visited museum, the Louvre in Paris!

    On April 30th, the Louvre launched an exhibition on the Mamluk sultanate (1250-1517), a European first. The exhibition aims to share the story of this golden age of the Islamic Near East, showcasing its breadth and richness, all told from a transregional perspective. The Mamluks appear in three Age of Empires titles and players around the world have discovered their prowess and story through our games since 1999.

    With a shared passion for history at its heart, this collaboration between Age of Empires and the Louvre serves to share the story of the Mamluks to people around the world and encourage them to learn more about this golden age of medieval history, which isn’t often told.

    Throughout the month of June, we’ll be collaborating both at the museum in Paris and online. For an overview of our collaboration, check our dedicated webpage.

    Age of Empires and the Louvre Partnership Page

    You’ll be able to experience content from the partnership at the museum, on our websites, on social media and via the first ever livestream from the museum, on June 12th, starting at 11:00 AM PT (2:00 PM ET / 18:00 UTC).

    We are so honored to be working with the Louvre, we share a passion for sharing the stories of history with the world.

    “World’s Edge is honored to collaborate with Le Louvre. The Age of Empires franchise has been bringing history to life for more than 65 million players around the world for almost 30 years. We’ve always believed in the great potential for our games to spark an interest in history and culture. We often hear of teachers using Age of Empires to teach history to their students and stories from our players about how Age of Empires has driven them to learn more, or even to pursue history academically or as a career. This opportunity to bring the amazing stories of the Mamluks to new audiences through the Louvre’s exhibition is one we’re excited to be a part of. We hope that through the excellent work of the Louvre’s team, the legacy of the Mamluks can be shared around the world, and that people enjoy their stories as they come to life through Age of Empires.”

    — Michael Mann, Studio Head at World’s Edge

    The Mamluks in Age of Empires

    The Mamluks have been an iconic part of the Age of Empires franchise since Age of Empires II (1999). Players today can experience these mighty warriors in Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition, Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition, and in Age of Empires IV (via the best-selling Sultans Ascend DLC).

    There’s more information about how you can play as the Mamluks in Age games on our partnership webpage.

    Play as the Mamluks in an All-New Scenario

    To celebrate the partnership, we’re releasing a brand new custom scenario for Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition on PC, “Ayn Jalut”. Created by World’s Edge Senior Business Manager, and famed Age campaign designer, Ramsey Abdulrahim. In this scenario, you play as Baybars before the pivotal battle when the fate of the Muslim world held in the balance. Prepare your forces, set up your ambushes, and use your cunning and strategy to overcome the Mongol horde. Like the Mamluks, can you be the first to defeat the Mongols?

    When finished, try again and best your friends for the highest score!

    The entire world trembled before the Mongols. Rulers of China and Persia, the fearsome horsemen swept through the cities of the Islamic world, leaving ruins. Only Baybars and the Mamluks of Egypt stood in their way. Baybars had gathered an army at Ayn Jalut, the site where the Biblical David slew the giant Goliath. Baybars had been born a thousand miles away, but he knew the Mongols well: they had slaughtered his family and sold him–as a mere boy–into slavery. At Ayn Jalut, he was determined to have his revenge–and slay his own giant.

    The Mamluks and the Exhibition

    The Mamluks, freed slave-soldiers of primarily Turkish (and later Caucasian) origin, built their legend on their military prowess. They conquered the last bastions of the Crusaders, fought and repelled the Mongols, survived Timur’s invasions and kept threatening neighbors at bay, before succumbing to Ottoman expansion. The sultanate encompassed a vast territory, including Egypt, Bilad al-Sham (modern day Syria, Lebanon, Israel/Palestine and Jordan), parts of Eastern Anatolia and the Hejaz region of Arabia, which includes Mecca and Medina.

    The exhibition takes visitors beyond the military legend of the Mamluk sultanate and shows the complex and multi-faceted society they formed. They created a world in which sultans mingled with emirs and rich civil elites, all actively engaging in artistic patronage. Women had active roles in Mamluk society, as well as Christian and Jewish minorities. At the meeting point of Europe, Africa and Asia, people and ideas circulated, as well as arts and trade.

    The exhibition is an unprecedented opportunity to discover this glorious and yet little-known empire, through a collection of masterpieces from around the world. Visitors will be exposed to a new perspective on medieval Egypt and the Near East.

    To make sure you can enjoy all the partnership content, make sure you’re following Age of Empires and the Louvre on social media!

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Ghana and Zambia have snubbed Africa’s leading development bank: why they should change course

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Misheck Mutize, Post Doctoral Researcher, Graduate School of Business (GSB), University of Cape Town

    The governments of Ghana and Zambia recently took a decision that could have serious consequences for other African countries. The decision relates to arrangements on how the two countries will repay the debt they owe to Africa Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank).

    They have both taken decisions to relegate Afreximbank to a commercial lender from a preferred creditor. This means that the terms on which Afreximbank has lent money to these two countries will change. And it will lose certain protections. For example preferred creditors are repaid first, before any other lenders.

    This protects preferred creditors’ balance sheets and enables them to continue lending during crisis periods when others cannot. In contrast, commercial banks get paid later or might not get paid at all. This higher risk factor means that they charge higher rates.

    Based on decades of researching Africa’s capital markets and the institutions that govern them it’s my view that the long-term consequences of this precedent are detrimental. If other African borrowers follow suit, treating loans from African multilateral development banks as ordinary commercial debt during restructuring, it will erode the viability of these institutions. Investors who fund Afreximbank through bonds and capital markets may reassess its risk profile, pushing up its cost of funding and making future lending less affordable.

    The ultimate losers will be African countries themselves, especially those with limited access to international capital. Afreximbank, along with other African financial institutions, is a lifeline for trade finance, infrastructure development, and crisis response. Undermining its legal protections weakens the continent’s capacity for self-reliant development.

    Afreximbank was created under the auspices of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 1993. It was set up with a public interest mandate to develop African trade and promote integration. Its legal status and structural features place it closer to international multilateral development banks than to private creditors, justifying its treatment as a preferred creditor.

    The decision by Accra and Lusaka signals lack of confidence in African financial institutions. It suggests that they do not trust them to the same extent as global institutions like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. These are treated as preferred creditors, on the assumption that they will lend to countries in crisis or distress when commercial lenders retreat.

    The actions of Ghana and Zambia set a dangerous precedent by sidelining African financial institutions in favour of external creditors. That risks weakening Africa’s financial institutions and undermining the very concept of African solutions to African problems. Investors will become more sceptical and pessimistic, demanding more interest.

    The continent needs to develop an ability to independently design, finance and implement its economic development policies without support from external financial institutions. Afreximbank helps to achieve this through financing African-designed infrastructure and counter-cyclical lending.

    Ghana and Zambia still have an opportunity to correct course. In my view they should do so for the sake of the bank, its member states and the future of African economic sovereignty.

    The background

    Ghana and Zambia have both defaulted on their external bonds in the last four years. Zambia in October 2020 and Ghana in December 2022. This forced them to negotiate new sustainable terms with creditors.

    During their respective debt negotiations, both countries have announced that they would include African multilateral development banks such as Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank in the debt restructuring.

    This followed private and bilateral creditors contesting unequal distribution of restructuring burdens, where they face losses while some multilateral institutions are shielded. The International Monetary Fund and World Bank, which are preferred creditors, do not fund infrastructure, they only offer balance of payments support.

    The decision by Ghana and Zambia to relegate Afreximbank was made during an ongoing comprehensive debt restructuring. Ghana and Zambia have been negotiating with creditors for over a year in an attempt to resolve their sovereign debt crises.

    The two countries were complying with International Monetary Fund supported restructuring terms. Bilateral creditors were also demanding fair burden sharing with African multilateral banks.

    Afreximbank: not just another lender

    Ghana and Zambia don’t have a legal leg to stand on.

    Afreximbank’s preferred creditor status is not an informal privilege but derives from Article VX(1) of its founding agreement. The agreement has been signed and ratified by member states into national laws, including Ghana and Zambia.

    This status is further reinforced by the bank’s diplomatic immunities and privileges and its ability to operate across African jurisdictions under protected legal frameworks. The role of Afreximbank, therefore, goes beyond that of a traditional commercial bank.

    Preferred creditor status protects development finance institutions in a number of ways. The biggest protection is that lenders are prioritised for repayment. This protects their balance sheets, enabling them to continue lending when others cannot.

    A preferred creditor status is accorded for a reason. It is to ensure that development finance institutions can lend in times of distress with confidence, on the guarantee that they will be repaid ahead of other creditors. Country actions that violate this principle disrupt the implicit covenant that enables counter-cyclical financing. This is breaking the financial lifeline that countries might need when nobody else is willing to help them. This is precisely the kind of support that Ghana and Zambia relied on during their respective debt crises in December 2022 and October 2020, respectively.

    A bank that has consistently stepped up

    It is worth recalling that during the COVID-19 pandemic (2019–2021) and again when global markets closed access to Eurobond issuances for African countries, investors didn’t want to lend African countries for fear of defaulting. Afreximbank was one of the few institutions that continued to lend to African sovereigns. This included US$750 million to Ghana and US$45 million to Zambia.

    When Ghana, Zambia and other commodity export-dependent countries faced acute foreign currency shortages and tightening global liquidity caused by the 2015/16 commodity crisis of low prices, Afreximbank did not hesitate to deploy resources.

    Zambia has also benefited significantly from Afreximbank’s trade and development finance in energy, agriculture and healthcare. These are areas that many commercial banks view as too risky or low-margin.

    For Zambia and Ghana to classify Afreximbank in the same category as hedge funds, bondholders or purely commercial lenders, is ahistorical and unwarranted.

    Restructuring loans from Afreximbank risks inadvertently raising the cost of capital for African countries. If Afreximbank can no longer be shielded under preferred creditor status norms, it may be forced to adopt more conservative lending practices, charge higher risk premiums or retreat from high-risk markets altogether.

    The knock-on effect is reduced access to affordable, timely financing for countries that need it most.

    Afreximbank has rejected the idea that its loans ought to be restructured.

    Ghana and Zambia should correct course

    Ghana and Zambia still have an opportunity to correct course. They can reaffirm Afreximbank’s preferred creditor status, exclude it from restructuring tables meant for commercial creditors, and honour their legal commitments.

    In doing so, they would not only preserve their reputations as reliable debtors but also strengthen the broader fabric of African financial solidarity.

    African countries must be cognisant that no one else will build their institutions for them. If they do not defend and respect them, they cannot expect the rest of the world to do so. The credibility, sustainability and legitimacy of Africa’s financial independence depends, in large part, on how they treat the institutions they have built.

    The decision to treat Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank like commercial lenders is short-sighted and self-defeating. It must be reversed.

    Misheck Mutize does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Ghana and Zambia have snubbed Africa’s leading development bank: why they should change course – https://theconversation.com/ghana-and-zambia-have-snubbed-africas-leading-development-bank-why-they-should-change-course-258467

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sends Written Message to Swedish Foreign Minister

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Stockholm, June 11 

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani sent a written message to HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Sweden Maria Malmer Stenergard, pertaining to bilateral relations and ways to support and develop them.

    The message was handed over by HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Kingdom of Sweden Nadya bint Ahmad Al Sheebi during her meeting with HE Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden Dag Hartelius. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eastern Cape’s N2 to close for blasting

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, June 11, 2025

    The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) has advised road users that blasting is scheduled to take place on the N2 national road between KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni in the Eastern Cape.

    The blasting will take place on Friday, 13 June 2025, at 12pm, approximately 8.8 kilometres (km) from KwaBhaca when travelling towards EmaXesibeni.

    The road will be closed during the blasting activities for a maximum of 30 minutes.

    “Motorists are asked to plan their trips accordingly, consider alternative routes and to use caution when making use of the road,” SANRAL said.

    Motorists travelling from Kokstad towards Mthatha may consider the following alternative routes: 

    • Go onto the R56 route and travel past Matatiele and then past Tlokoeng until Nqanqarhu, then take the R396 towards Tsolo until you join the N2, and then proceed to Mthatha.
    • Stay on the N2 until Pakade (18km out of Kokstad), then turn left onto the R394 and join the R61 at Magusheni. Slip right onto the R61 towards Flagstaff, Lusikisiki and Port St Johns and then rejoin the N2 in Mthatha. Similarly, motorists travelling from Mthatha towards Kokstad may consider using the same routes.
    • The shortest alternative route is 69 kilometres longer and may add approximately 50 minutes to your trip between Mthatha and Kokstad.

    SANRAL has apologised for any inconvenience caused. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SIU freeze immovable property in the Zandrivierspoort farm

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a preservation order from the Special Tribunal to freeze the immovable property at Portion 15 of the Farm Zandrivierspoort in Limpopo. 

    “This action is part of an investigation into the misappropriation of funds from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC), which were intended for the construction of old age homes,” the Special Investigating Unit said in a statement.

    The SIU’s probe into NLC-funded projects uncovered a sophisticated scheme involving the hijacking of legitimate non-profit organisations (NPOs), falsified grant applications, and the diversion of funds to private entities and individuals. 

    The investigation focused on three NPOs, Matieni Community Centre, Lethabong Old Age Home and War Against Rape and Abuse (WAR RNA), which together received more than R66 million under false pretences.

    “The SIU’s investigation revealed that Matieni Community Centre, a defunct NPO, was fraudulently revived to apply for NLC funding. 

    “The original members were unaware of the application and the individuals listed on the NLC application were not legitimate members,” the SIU said.

    Lethabong Old Age Home and WAR RNA similarly had their identities misused, with falsified documents and unauthorised individuals submitting applications. Matieni received R23 million from the NLC, of which:

    • R5.975 million was transferred to the Mbidzo Development Programme, which was linked to Collin Tshisimba, who has been fingered in other NLC investigations.
    • R6.2 million was paid to Wa Rothe Construction, and Lethabong received R20 million, with R15 million diverted to Mbidzo’s bank account.
    • WAR RNA received R20 million, with R5 million transferred to Mbidzo.

    Mbidzo, controlled by Tshisimba, channelled funds to attorneys for the purchase of the Louis Trichardt Farm, Limpopo, registered under Promise Kharivhe,  Tshisimba’s life partner.

    The order of the Special Tribunal is part of implementing SIU investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover financial losses suffered by State institutions because of corruption or negligence. 

    The order forms part of a broader investigation into corruption involving NLC grants intended for community development projects.

    The SIU is empowered to institute a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations caused by corruption, fraud, or maladministration.

    In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: [VIDEO] Rep. Omar Condemns Trump’s Travel Ban

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) joined a press conference in front of the United States Capitol Building to condemn President Donald Trump’s travel ban and to reintroduce the NO BAN Act.

    The Congresswoman emphasized how disastrous Trump’s racist travel ban will be. It will keep families separated and endanger lives.

    Rep. Omar also joined her colleagues in reintroducing the NO BAN Act to prevent future presidents from holding the authority to suspend or restrict any group of immigrants from entering the United States by prohibiting religious discrimination from immigration-based decisions.

    The full video can be found here.

    Full transcript below:

    “Make no mistake: This discriminatory policy is shameful and as history looks back at this moment, it will be a stain on our country. 

    “Donald Trump’s proclamation is riddled with outright falsehoods, relies on debunked statistics, and is rife with internal contradictions. 

    “He claims this is a way to make us safer, let me be absolutely clear: it won’t make us safer, it will separate families and endanger lives. 

    “Because of this decision, our country will lose out on incredible contributions that people from these countries would’ve otherwise made to our neighborhoods and our society. 

    “Contributions like becoming educators, doctors, and public servants. 

    “This decision will not only hurt our country, it will have immediate disastrous implications. 

    “For some Americans, it will mean their fiancés, or spouses or children will be banned from reuniting with them here. 

    “It will mean family members will have to miss weddings and graduations and funerals. 

    “Just as they did in their first term, with their repeated efforts to ban Muslims from coming to the United States, the Trump Administration is using national security justifications to prevent people they deem undesirable from entering the United States. 

    “That means Muslims again, and it also means Black people.

    “In his first term, Trump famously mused about why we didn’t have more Norwegians immigrants and fewer from what he called “shithole countries.” 

    “Now, he’s banning people from 19 Black and brown countries based solely on their nationality and resettling White South Africans. 

    “The racism is not exactly subtle.

    “All 19 of the nationalities we are now banning have produced Americans that have displayed more patriotism and loyalty and contributed more to this country than Donald Trump and Stephen Miller could ever dream of.

    “From the time I arrived in this country as a refugee with my family, I have never lost sight of the extraordinary generosity and hospitality of the United States that allowed us to begin our lives again here, and eventually led me to the United States House of Representatives.

    “But I have also always known that the United States did not let us live here purely out of the expansive goodness of its heart. 

    “We contribute to the economy, we contribute to the political and social life of this country, we join the military, we defend the freedoms enshrined in our founding documents with the passion that comes from having lived a life where those freedoms were not guaranteed.

    “It is, and has always been, mutually beneficial, and we have always taken our part in that seriously. 

    “The United States has never been a white nationalist country, and no matter how much Donald Trump and Stephen Miller try, it never will be. 

    “This will be remembered, along with so much else they are trying now, as a shameful betrayal of the exact qualities that make America great.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks to the Opening of the Eighteenth Session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Welcome to the 18th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

    On behalf of the Secretary-General, I extend my deepest gratitude to all of you for all you do to advance the rights of persons with disabilities around the world.

    A special welcome to civil society, and in particular, to the organizations led by persons with disabilities.

    Your presence fills this Hall with purpose.

    Advancing equality and expanding opportunities for people with disabilities is not only close to my heart – it is central to the vision of the Secretary-General and the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy.

    It is a test of our common values. Inclusion of persons with disabilities is also a testament to common sense.

    When persons with disabilities can fully participate in society, communities and economies are stronger.

    We know this.  And so do all those who realize the Convention.  

    In an often-divided world, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities stands as a powerful declaration: 

    Disability inclusion is fundamental to human rights — and essential to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

    Yet today, we face a sobering truth.

    Progress is not just slow – in some cases, it is reversing.

    The UN Disability and Development Report found that nearly all SDG indicators for persons with disabilities are off track.

    The message is stark:

    Persons with disabilities face higher poverty, greater unemployment, deeper food and health insecurity, and more limited access to education, jobs and digital technologies.

    And as this session reminds us, indigenous persons with disabilities face even greater exclusion.

    This must change.

    The Pact for the Future, adopted last year, reinforces the call for a more peaceful, inclusive, accessible and equitable world – one in which persons with disabilities play a full and equal role in advancing sustainable development, climate action and digital transformation.

    We meet today on the threshold of two vital gatherings: the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, and the Second World Summit for Social Development.

    Your deliberations will help shape those events. 

    This session focuses on three critical themes.

    How we finance change.

    How we harness technology.

    And how we honour those most often left behind: Indigenous persons with disabilities.

    Let me offer a few reflections.

    First, on funding change.

    Progress requires investment.

    Yet today, global support for disability inclusion has been cut in half – falling from $500 million to $250 million in just two years.

    Behind these figures are real lives. 

    Children with disabilities shut out of classrooms.

    Adults with disabilities who cannot get to work, if they have work at all.

    Families of persons with disabilities denied essential services.

    Women and girls with disabilities are denied sexual and reproductive health and rights.

    We need targeted investments and tailored solutions – such as microfinance, social impact bonds and public-private alliances – that address gaps in realizing the rights of persons with disabilities.

    And we must unlock capital to fund inclusion today, and build sustainable, inclusive systems for tomorrow.

    This requires advancing the Pact for the Future’s calls to recapitalize Multilateral Development Banks, provide debt relief, and reform the international financial architecture – so that developing countries can invest in systems that are inclusive and accessible to persons with disabilities.  

    Second, we must continue to harness the transformative power of technologies.

    Artificial intelligence is the latest frontier – and it holds immense potential to advance inclusion. 

    AI can be the difference between isolation and participation.

    And help individuals navigate the world through tools such as speech recognition, sign language interpretation, real-time captioning, screen readers, accessible navigation assistance and personalized support for daily tasks.

    But this promise comes with a warning. 

    Biases are being hardwired into algorithms.

    And regulations on accessibility of emerging technologies are sorely lacking.

    Developed countries, in particular, have a responsibility to step up support.

    Today about 70% of AI-powered assistive technologies are concentrated in developed economies.

    Without global cooperation and fair technology transfer agreements, people in the poorest countries risk being excluded – again. 

    We must ensure that AI becomes a tool for humanity, not a mirror of entrenched inequalities.

    Through the Global Digital Compact, countries have made their expectations clear: 

    AI technologies must empower all people, including persons with disabilities, and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age.     
        
    Third, we must do more to uphold the rights of Indigenous persons with disabilities.

    Persistent barriers in intersecting forms of discrimination are limiting their rights, and the disparities are stark.

    In Latin America, for example, indigenous persons with disabilities attend fewer years of school, earn half as much income, and hold fewer leadership roles.

    Indigenous women and girls with disabilities face greater rates of violence, isolation and lack of support services.

    Legal services are not accessible or are not culturally adequate for equal access to justice.

    This is not just neglect – it is erasure.

    Realizing the rights of Indigenous Persons with Disabilities requires culturally appropriate approaches – and meaningful inclusion in decision-making.

    The rallying cry has never been more fitting:  Nothing about us without us. 

    Dear friends,

    We’ve come a long way in 19 years.

    Laws have changed.

    Attitudes have shifted.

    And political realities have shifted, too.

    Armed conflict in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and elsewhere is leaving countless civilians with sustained permanent injuries and deep psychological trauma.

    Children with disabilities are especially vulnerable – Gaza alone has the highest number of child amputees in modern history.

    Families are bearing the brunt of conflicts, and communities will require inclusive and accessible rebuilding.

    Wars are draining budgets. And the foundations of multilateralism are being chiseled away by division and mistrust.

    Yet this session is proof that the world can still come together – with purpose and resolve. 

    It is a reminder that we must make sure promises made are promises kept.

    Let’s make the most of this conference – and the historic opportunities ahead – to drive action for persons with disabilities.  

    To build a world that is inclusive, accessible, and sustainable.

    And to say in one voice:

    Rights are not optional.

    They are universal. 

    They are non-negotiable.

    And they belong to all.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How was the wheel invented? Computer simulations reveal the unlikely birth of a world-changing technology nearly 6,000 years ago

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kai James, Professor of Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology

    The assumption was that the wheel evolved from wooden rollers. Tetra Images via Getty Images

    Imagine you’re a copper miner in southeastern Europe in the year 3900 B.C.E. Day after day you haul copper ore through the mine’s sweltering tunnels.

    You’ve resigned yourself to the grueling monotony of mining life. Then one afternoon, you witness a fellow worker doing something remarkable.

    With an odd-looking contraption, he casually transports the equivalent of three times his body weight on a single trip. As he returns to the mine to fetch another load, it suddenly dawns on you that your chosen profession is about to get far less taxing and much more lucrative.

    What you don’t realize: You’re witnessing something that will change the course of history – not just for your tiny mining community, but for all of humanity.

    An illustration of what the original mine carts used in the Carpathian mountains may have looked like in 3900 B.C.E.
    Kai James via DALL·E

    Despite the wheel’s immeasurable impact, no one is certain as to who invented it, or when and where it was first conceived. The hypothetical scenario described above is based on a 2015 theory that miners in the Carpathian Mountains – now Hungary – first invented the wheel nearly 6,000 years ago as a means to transport copper ore.

    The theory is supported by the discovery of more than 150 miniaturized wagons by archaeologists working in the region. These pint-sized, four-wheeled models were made from clay, and their outer surfaces were engraved with a wickerwork pattern reminiscent of the basketry used by mining communities at the time. Carbon dating later revealed that these wagons are the earliest known depictions of wheeled transport to date.

    This theory also raises a question of particular interest to me, an aerospace engineer who studies the science of engineering design. How did an obscure, scientifically naive mining society discover the wheel, when highly advanced civilizations, such as the ancient Egyptians, did not?

    A controversial idea

    It has long been assumed that wheels evolved from simple wooden rollers. But until recently no one could explain how or why this transformation took place. What’s more, beginning in the 1960s, some researchers started to express strong doubts about the roller-to-wheel theory.

    After all, for rollers to be useful, they require flat, firm terrain and a path free of inclines and sharp curves. Furthermore, once the cart passes them, used rollers need to be continually brought around to the front of the line to keep the cargo moving. For all these reasons, the ancient world used rollers sparingly. According to the skeptics, rollers were too rare and too impractical to have been the starting point for the evolution of the wheel.

    But a mine – with its enclosed, human-made passageways – would have provided favorable conditions for rollers. This factor, among others, compelled my team to revisit the roller hypothesis.

    A turning point

    The transition from rollers to wheels requires two key innovations. The first is a modification of the cart that carries the cargo. The cart’s base must be outfitted with semicircular sockets, which hold the rollers in place. This way, as the operator pulls the cart, the rollers are pulled along with it.

    This innovation may have been motivated by the confined nature of the mine environment, where having to periodically carry used rollers back around to the front of the cart would have been especially onerous.

    The discovery of socketed rollers represented a turning point in the evolution of the wheel and paved the way for the second and most important innovation. This next step involved a change to the rollers themselves. To understand how and why this change occurred, we turned to physics and computer-aided engineering.

    Simulating the wheel’s evolution

    To begin our investigation, we created a computer program designed to simulate the evolution from a roller to a wheel. Our hypothesis was that this transformation was driven by a phenomenon called “mechanical advantage.” This same principle allows pliers to amplify a user’s grip strength by providing added leverage. Similarly, if we could modify the shape of the roller to generate mechanical advantage, this would amplify the user’s pushing force, making it easier to advance the cart.

    Our algorithm worked by modeling hundreds of potential roller shapes and evaluating how each one performed, both in terms of mechanical advantage and structural strength. The latter was used to determine whether a given roller would break under the weight of the cargo. As predicted, the algorithm ultimately converged upon the familiar wheel-and-axle shape, which it determined to be optimal.

    A computer simulation of the evolution from a roller to a wheel-and-axle structure. Each image represents a design evaluated by the algorithm. The search ultimately converges upon the familiar wheel-and-axle design.
    Kai James

    During the execution of the algorithm, each new design performed slightly better than its predecessor. We believe a similar evolutionary process played out with the miners 6,000 years ago.

    It is unclear what initially prompted the miners to explore alternative roller shapes. One possibility is that friction at the roller-socket interface caused the surrounding wood to wear away, leading to a slight narrowing of the roller at the point of contact. Another theory is that the miners began thinning out the rollers so that their carts could pass over small obstructions on the ground.

    Either way, thanks to mechanical advantage, this narrowing of the axle region made the carts easier to push. As time passed, better-performing designs were repeatedly favored over the others, and new rollers were crafted to mimic these top performers.

    Consequently, the rollers became more and more narrow, until all that remained was a slender bar capped on both ends by large discs. This rudimentary structure marks the birth of what we now refer to as “the wheel.”

    According to our theory, there was no precise moment at which the wheel was invented. Rather, just like the evolution of species, the wheel emerged gradually from an accumulation of small improvements.

    This is just one of the many chapters in the wheel’s long and ongoing evolution. More than 5,000 years after the contributions of the Carpathian miners, a Parisian bicycle mechanic invented radial ball bearings, which once again revolutionized wheeled transportation.

    Ironically, ball bearings are conceptually identical to rollers, the wheel’s evolutionary precursor. Ball bearings form a ring around the axle, creating a rolling interface between the axle and the wheel hub, thereby circumventing friction. With this innovation, the evolution of the wheel came full circle.

    This example also shows how the wheel’s evolution, much like its iconic shape, traces a circuitous path – one with no clear beginning, no end, and countless quiet revolutions along the way.

    Kai James receives funding from The National Science Foundation.

    – ref. How was the wheel invented? Computer simulations reveal the unlikely birth of a world-changing technology nearly 6,000 years ago – https://theconversation.com/how-was-the-wheel-invented-computer-simulations-reveal-the-unlikely-birth-of-a-world-changing-technology-nearly-6-000-years-ago-244038

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana and Zambia have snubbed Africa’s leading development bank: why they should change course

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Misheck Mutize, Post Doctoral Researcher, Graduate School of Business (GSB), University of Cape Town

    The governments of Ghana and Zambia recently took a decision that could have serious consequences for other African countries. The decision relates to arrangements on how the two countries will repay the debt they owe to Africa Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank).

    They have both taken decisions to relegate Afreximbank to a commercial lender from a preferred creditor. This means that the terms on which Afreximbank has lent money to these two countries will change. And it will lose certain protections. For example preferred creditors are repaid first, before any other lenders.

    This protects preferred creditors’ balance sheets and enables them to continue lending during crisis periods when others cannot. In contrast, commercial banks get paid later or might not get paid at all. This higher risk factor means that they charge higher rates.

    Based on decades of researching Africa’s capital markets and the institutions that govern them it’s my view that the long-term consequences of this precedent are detrimental. If other African borrowers follow suit, treating loans from African multilateral development banks as ordinary commercial debt during restructuring, it will erode the viability of these institutions. Investors who fund Afreximbank through bonds and capital markets may reassess its risk profile, pushing up its cost of funding and making future lending less affordable.

    The ultimate losers will be African countries themselves, especially those with limited access to international capital. Afreximbank, along with other African financial institutions, is a lifeline for trade finance, infrastructure development, and crisis response. Undermining its legal protections weakens the continent’s capacity for self-reliant development.

    Afreximbank was created under the auspices of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 1993. It was set up with a public interest mandate to develop African trade and promote integration. Its legal status and structural features place it closer to international multilateral development banks than to private creditors, justifying its treatment as a preferred creditor.

    The decision by Accra and Lusaka signals lack of confidence in African financial institutions. It suggests that they do not trust them to the same extent as global institutions like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. These are treated as preferred creditors, on the assumption that they will lend to countries in crisis or distress when commercial lenders retreat.

    The actions of Ghana and Zambia set a dangerous precedent by sidelining African financial institutions in favour of external creditors. That risks weakening Africa’s financial institutions and undermining the very concept of African solutions to African problems. Investors will become more sceptical and pessimistic, demanding more interest.

    The continent needs to develop an ability to independently design, finance and implement its economic development policies without support from external financial institutions. Afreximbank helps to achieve this through financing African-designed infrastructure and counter-cyclical lending.

    Ghana and Zambia still have an opportunity to correct course. In my view they should do so for the sake of the bank, its member states and the future of African economic sovereignty.

    The background

    Ghana and Zambia have both defaulted on their external bonds in the last four years. Zambia in October 2020 and Ghana in December 2022. This forced them to negotiate new sustainable terms with creditors.

    During their respective debt negotiations, both countries have announced that they would include African multilateral development banks such as Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank in the debt restructuring.

    This followed private and bilateral creditors contesting unequal distribution of restructuring burdens, where they face losses while some multilateral institutions are shielded. The International Monetary Fund and World Bank, which are preferred creditors, do not fund infrastructure, they only offer balance of payments support.

    The decision by Ghana and Zambia to relegate Afreximbank was made during an ongoing comprehensive debt restructuring. Ghana and Zambia have been negotiating with creditors for over a year in an attempt to resolve their sovereign debt crises.

    The two countries were complying with International Monetary Fund supported restructuring terms. Bilateral creditors were also demanding fair burden sharing with African multilateral banks.

    Afreximbank: not just another lender

    Ghana and Zambia don’t have a legal leg to stand on.

    Afreximbank’s preferred creditor status is not an informal privilege but derives from Article VX(1) of its founding agreement. The agreement has been signed and ratified by member states into national laws, including Ghana and Zambia.

    This status is further reinforced by the bank’s diplomatic immunities and privileges and its ability to operate across African jurisdictions under protected legal frameworks. The role of Afreximbank, therefore, goes beyond that of a traditional commercial bank.

    Preferred creditor status protects development finance institutions in a number of ways. The biggest protection is that lenders are prioritised for repayment. This protects their balance sheets, enabling them to continue lending when others cannot.

    A preferred creditor status is accorded for a reason. It is to ensure that development finance institutions can lend in times of distress with confidence, on the guarantee that they will be repaid ahead of other creditors. Country actions that violate this principle disrupt the implicit covenant that enables counter-cyclical financing. This is breaking the financial lifeline that countries might need when nobody else is willing to help them. This is precisely the kind of support that Ghana and Zambia relied on during their respective debt crises in December 2022 and October 2020, respectively.

    A bank that has consistently stepped up

    It is worth recalling that during the COVID-19 pandemic (2019–2021) and again when global markets closed access to Eurobond issuances for African countries, investors didn’t want to lend African countries for fear of defaulting. Afreximbank was one of the few institutions that continued to lend to African sovereigns. This included US$750 million to Ghana and US$45 million to Zambia.

    When Ghana, Zambia and other commodity export-dependent countries faced acute foreign currency shortages and tightening global liquidity caused by the 2015/16 commodity crisis of low prices, Afreximbank did not hesitate to deploy resources.

    Zambia has also benefited significantly from Afreximbank’s trade and development finance in energy, agriculture and healthcare. These are areas that many commercial banks view as too risky or low-margin.

    For Zambia and Ghana to classify Afreximbank in the same category as hedge funds, bondholders or purely commercial lenders, is ahistorical and unwarranted.

    Restructuring loans from Afreximbank risks inadvertently raising the cost of capital for African countries. If Afreximbank can no longer be shielded under preferred creditor status norms, it may be forced to adopt more conservative lending practices, charge higher risk premiums or retreat from high-risk markets altogether.

    The knock-on effect is reduced access to affordable, timely financing for countries that need it most.

    Afreximbank has rejected the idea that its loans ought to be restructured.

    Ghana and Zambia should correct course

    Ghana and Zambia still have an opportunity to correct course. They can reaffirm Afreximbank’s preferred creditor status, exclude it from restructuring tables meant for commercial creditors, and honour their legal commitments.

    In doing so, they would not only preserve their reputations as reliable debtors but also strengthen the broader fabric of African financial solidarity.

    African countries must be cognisant that no one else will build their institutions for them. If they do not defend and respect them, they cannot expect the rest of the world to do so. The credibility, sustainability and legitimacy of Africa’s financial independence depends, in large part, on how they treat the institutions they have built.

    The decision to treat Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank like commercial lenders is short-sighted and self-defeating. It must be reversed.

    – Ghana and Zambia have snubbed Africa’s leading development bank: why they should change course
    – https://theconversation.com/ghana-and-zambia-have-snubbed-africas-leading-development-bank-why-they-should-change-course-258467

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA creative sector generates revenue and job opportunities

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    SA creative sector generates revenue and job opportunities

    Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong says the South African creative industry is a significant one that generates considerable revenue and provides employment to many.

    “The industry plays a vital role in the economy by contributing towards knowledge attainment, nation-building and cultural preservation,” Morolong said on Tuesday.

    Speaking at the book launch of Business by Grace, written by Zibusiso Mkhwanazi, Morolong said by publishing local literature and promoting cultural heritage, the sector contributes to the preservation and development of the South African culture of reading and writing.

    The book by Mkhwanazi – a South African advertising guru and entrepreneur who rose from humble beginnings – is described as “not just a story of business success”. The Mkhwanazi Foundation says Business by Grace shows readers how to embrace lessons that come from building businesses in the face of hardship, and provides practical insights on turning vision into value.

    Morolong said the creative industry, including publishing and print media, is an important source of revenue and employment in South Africa.

    “The industry also acts as the central core of an entire network of related individuals and industries, such as paper manufacturers, educational institutions, ink producers, authors, printers, designers, book binders, illustrators, booksellers, distributors and CD manufacturers.

    “The importance of the creative industry in this new environment is greatly increased… as it is a source of information and knowledge, and a vehicle for political, social and cultural expression.”

    Morolong identified the sector as one that can and ought to help South Africans to overcome the many persistent challenges that confront society and the economy.

    “Our expectations of this sector are onerous. However, the history we are making is centred on growing the sector in the same way we have grown other sectors of our economy through inclusion, empowerment and unleashing the energies and talents of South Africans.”

    Morolong said a great deal has also been written to capture the defining features of post-apartheid South Africa, and the necessarily high cost of democratic transformation.

    “Demographic conditions such as high unemployment rates, the youthfulness of the population, uneven access to basic services, such as water and electricity, form part of the challenges that continue to confront the current government.

    “The process of change is by necessity also related to new policies that aim to facilitate comprehensive economic reforms, encapsulated in the many government policy frameworks and more recently in the National Development Plan Vision 2030.

    “These reforms have in general, been focused in two directions. In the first place, reforms are aimed at addressing the immense disparities in wealth and status in South African society and provide improved access to opportunities for employment and benefits to those negatively affected by apartheid policies,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    Edwin

    MIL OSI Africa –