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Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Bolster Oil Recovery as Africa Maximizes Production at Ageing Fields

    Africa’s mature oilfields are experiencing a renaissance and artificial intelligence (AI) is at the heart of this transformation. In an era defined by innovation and sustainability, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies – powered by AI – are breathing new life into declining reservoirs. From predictive analytics to machine learning algorithms, AI is not just a tool; it is a catalyst for maximizing output, extending field life and improving operational efficiency. At the forefront of this conversation is the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 – taking place September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. During the event, energy leaders will converge to explore the role of digital transformation in advancing EOR across Africa.

    From Data to Big Barrels

    In 2025, the global market for AI in the oil and gas industry is estimated at $3.54 billion, set to rise to $6.4 billion by 2030. This is largely due to a rise in AI adoption by major operators. Examples include Baker Hughes and Repsol pooling resources to bring AI processes and workflows into oil and gas projects. Repsol has several developments underway in Libya, Algeria and Morocco and strives to bolster production across these markets. SLB inaugurated its Africa Performance Center in Luanda in 2025, which will support oil operations by offering access to digital solutions such as AI. SLB has supported several billion-dollar oil projects in Angola, with investments in almost every other region in Africa. 

    The power of AI in EOR comes down to predictive modeling. Traditional EOR relies heavily on limited data, with simplified reservoir models often impacting results. However, through AI, companies are able to analyze large datasets to deliver more accurate predictions of oil recovery. Another key benefit of AI in EOR is reservoir management. By analyzing geological and production data, companies can better-understand reservoir features, therefore supporting recovery techniques. Machine-learning also offers significant opportunities for EOR, specifically through its ability to recognize patterns, handle datasets and make accurate predictions. The application of machine-learning also enables reservoir performance forecasting, supporting decision-making by allowing companies to predict future production. 

    Policy Creates In-Roads for AI Deployment

    As Africa advances toward digital transformation, policy reform has become a vital enabler of AI adoption across the oil industry. By integrating digital solutions and targets into regulatory frameworks, countries can support investments in AI and machine learning while accelerating research and development. Various countries are streamlining policy to support EOR at legacy assets. Angola, for example, implemented its Incremental Production Initiative in 2024 which offers tax incentives to encourage reinvestments in mature oilfields. Energy major ExxonMobil made the first discovery – the Likembe-01 well – as part of the initiative in 2024, demonstrating the role policy plays in unlocking incremental resources. The African Union Commission also declared AI as a strategic priority for the continent in May 2025, citing the role machine-learning plays in transforming the continent’s development trajectory. The declaration is expected to create in-roads for technology companies, introducing new opportunities for oil operators to maximize recovery and efficiency.  

    AEW 2025: Where Innovation Meets Investment

    AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 – the continent’s premier event for the energy sector – will host dedicated sessions on digital transformation, EOR and AI in exploration. A series of panel discussions and technical workshops will explore the new chapter of AI-driven oil production in Africa. AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will be the space where policy, capital and technology converge to define this next chapter.

    “Africa’s oil and gas assets hold immense value and AI is the key to unlocking resources efficiently and sustainably. In addition to support exploration efforts, AI will breathe new life into Africa’s ageing oilfields, extending field life, maximizing value and driving smarter, low-carbon production,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    About AEW: Invest in African Energies
    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit http://www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU external borders: Irregular crossings drop by 20% in first 5 months of 2025

    Source: Frontex

    Irregular border crossings into the European Union dropped by 20% in the first five months of 2025, totalling 63 700, according to preliminary data collected by Frontex*.

    With over 3 300 officers stationed along the EU’s external borders Frontex is working together with national authorities to safeguard borders and save lives at sea.

    Key Highlights:

    • Central Mediterranean remains the busiest route this year, accounting for one of every three arrivals into the EU.
    • Western Balkans sees the steepest decline in arrivals between January and May (-56%).
    • Most frequently reported nationalities: Bangladeshi, Afghan, and Malian.

    In the Central Mediterranean, 22 700 irregular crossings were recorded in the first five months of 2025, reflecting a slight increase (+7%) compared to the same period last year.

    Libya remains the main country of exit for migrants on this route, with a significant increase this year offsetting an almost 90% decline in departures from Tunisia, as the Tunisian authorities are stepping up their efforts to curb irregular migration.

    The Eastern Mediterranean was the second most active route in January-May, with 15 600 irregular crossings, representing a 30% drop compared to 2024.

    On the Western African route, the number of arrivals fell by a third to almost 11 100. The main nationalities on this corridor were Malian, Senegalese and Guinean.

    This significant drop can be attributed to multiple factors: stronger border controls and migration policies in Mauritania, poor weather conditions, and enhanced cooperation between the EU and countries of departure. Joint Spanish-Moroccan patrols have also played a key role in disrupting smuggling activities near the Canary Islands.

    Many risk their lives to reach Europe, embarking on the perilous journey across the Mediterranean in unseaworthy boats. The International Organization for Migration estimates that in just the first five months of this year alone, 651 people lost their lives at sea.

    On the Channel route, the number of migrants attempting to cross into the United Kingdom increased by 17% compared to last year to 25 540.

    Recent months have seen an uptick in Channel crossings. Smuggling networks operating in the area are adapting, using simultaneous departures to increase the number of successful crossings. This tactic puts more lives at risk in an already dangerous stretch of water as it hinders the search and rescue efforts of the national authorities.

    * Note: The preliminary data presented in this statement refer to the number of detections of irregular border crossing at the external borders of the European Union. The same person may cross the border several times in different locations at the external border.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic presented its initiatives to the rectors of BRICS countries at forums in Brazil

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Rio de Janeiro hosted large-scale events — the second forum of university rectors from Russia, Brazil and Belarus, as well as the second forum of university rectors from the BRICS countries. The events were organized by the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro with the support of national rectors’ communities, including the Russian Union of Rectors. They became a powerful platform for strengthening academic ties and promoting joint initiatives. The forums were attended by more than 50 representatives of universities from Russia and Belarus, delegations from Iran, India, China, South Africa, Ethiopia, Indonesia and more than 60 universities from Brazil.

    At the section on educational cooperation, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Konstantin Mogilevsky emphasized the unique role of BRICS in the modern world: In the conditions of international turbulence, it is education and science that are becoming the most important tools for finding joint answers to global challenges. The BRICS association is one of the few international platforms where interaction is built on the principles of mutual respect and equality, where there are no main ones, where everyone is equal and is committed to working together for the sake of a common future. We see that this approach is of interest and response to many countries. The creation of a ranking of BRICS universities is especially relevant in the conditions of political commitment of the headquarters of international rating agencies. The new system for assessing the quality of education is in great demand.

    The Deputy Minister spoke in detail about the dynamic expansion of the association (the accession of new members: Egypt, Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Indonesia) and the priorities of the educational agenda. This is the development of the BRICS Network University, recognition of qualifications, support for talented youth and the creation of its own BRICS university ranking.

    The key sections and plenary session were held at the Museum of Tomorrow. SPbPU was represented by a delegation consisting of Vladimir Shchepinin, Director of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade; Ekaterina Belyaevskaya, Head of the Department of International Interuniversity Cooperation; and Nikita Lukashevich and Olga Ergunova, associate professors at the Graduate School of Management and Management. Vladimir Shchepinin spoke at one of the sessions, presenting the Polytechnic University as a key player in the scientific and educational space of Russia in the field of technological development. He drew the attention of the rectors’ community to the potential of SPbPU in solving the problems of sustainable development of the BRICS countries.

    At the thematic session “Artificial Intelligence and Education in the BRICS Countries”, Olga Ergunova presented a report “AI Optimization of Human Resource Management in Smart Cities”, based on the results of a large-scale scientific project supported by the Russian Science Foundation (grant No. 25-28-01469). She described in detail the neural network model developed under the auspices of the RSF for forecasting and managing labor markets in the BRICS megacities (Shanghai, Bangalore, Moscow, Sao Paulo).

    Olga Ergunova drew the attention of those gathered to a successful example of comprehensive cooperation between the BRICS countries — the international competition for young researchers “SMART CITY 2030: Sustainable Development Management of BRICS Cities”. The event was first held in 2024 in pilot mode and generated considerable interest. In 2025, the co-organizers of the competition are SPbPU, the Russian Institute of Tsinghua University (China), Lovely Professional University (India) and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). The Rectors’ Forum provided an opportunity to announce the expansion of the competition and invite new representatives of the BRICS countries to participate.

    The SPbPU delegation held talks with existing partner universities in Brazil (these are nine leading universities in the country), and also met with new promising educational institutions and agencies. Among them are the Federal Agency for Technological Education, the Secretariat for Supervision and Development in Higher Education. Both agencies operate under the Ministry of Education of Brazil.

    Polytechnic University signed cooperation agreements with the Federal University of Fluminense and the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro.

    During working meetings and negotiations with rectors and representatives of university delegations, projects in the field of joint research, academic mobility, joint educational programs of double degrees and the organization of summer schools were discussed.

    In the context of changing global educational landscapes, Brazilian universities are becoming key centers for ensuring the scientific and technological sovereignty of the BRICS countries. Their competencies in the field of sustainable development, green economy, bioeconomy, agribusiness, artificial intelligence and other areas, supplemented by Russian fundamental science, form a unique ecosystem of cooperation, its integration into the BRICS educational space through the mechanisms of the BRICS Network University. They allow the creation of new formats of cooperation that combine academic mobility with applied research in areas that are strategic for the countries, noted Vladimir Shchepinin.

    A pleasant surprise was the delegation’s meeting with a 1988 Polytechnic graduate, Electo Eduardo Silva Lora. He is currently a professor and holds the post of head of the Scientific Institute at the Federal University of Itajuba, a leading university in the field of electric power and electrical engineering. Electo Silva Lora spoke excellent Russian and recalled his teachers, professors at the Polytechnic University, with great warmth. He expressed a desire to renew scientific and academic ties with his alma mater and is already interacting with colleagues from the Institute of Power Engineering.

    In addition, Olga Ergunova visited the leading business school of Latin America — FGV EBAPE (Getulio Vargas Foundation), holder of the prestigious “Triple Crown” of accreditations (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS). She held business negotiations with the director-dean of the school, Professor Flavio Carvalho de Vasconcelos and the head of the international department of Yuna Fontoura.

    Representatives of the school expressed interest in cooperation with SPbPU. During the negotiations, specific steps were outlined: organizing academic exchanges, joint research in the field of innovation management, technological development and sustainable production.

    For FGV EBAPE, it is always valuable to establish connections with leading universities in the world, such as SPbPU. We are interested in developing academic mobility and joint research initiatives, especially in areas related to technology and innovation, – emphasized Flavio Vasconcelos.

    Universities in Brazil represent a huge potential for partnership. Of course, everyone understands the difficulties and cost of logistics between our continents, but even this does not become an obstacle for such innovative projects as, for example, the Smart Cities competition. A number of government agencies support the mobility of Brazilian students, and these opportunities should be used. Brazil has created the strongest scientific centers and technology hubs in the field of research into renewable energy, artificial intelligence, agricultural and food technologies, oil and gas. Colleagues are interested in joint publications, the development of postgraduate programs, international grants for joint research. There is a lot of work to do to turn today’s agreements into real projects with the participation of the Polytechnic University, – Ekaterina Belyaevskaya summed up.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 20,000 malicious IPs and domains taken down in INTERPOL infostealer crackdown

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    11 June 2025

    SINGAPORE – More than 20,000 malicious IP addresses or domains linked to information stealers have been taken down in an INTERPOL-coordinated operation against cybercriminal infrastructure.

    During Operation Secure (January – April 2025) law enforcement agencies from 26 countries worked to locate servers, map physical networks and execute targeted takedowns.

    Ahead of the operation, INTERPOL cooperated with private-sector partners Group-IB, Kaspersky and Trend Micro to produce Cyber Activity Reports, sharing critical intelligence with cyber teams across Asia. These coordinated efforts resulted in the takedown of 79 per cent of identified suspicious IP addresses.

    Participating countries reported the seizure of 41 servers and over 100 GB of data, as well as the arrest of 32 suspects linked to illegal cyber activities.

    What are infostealers?

    Infostealer malware is a primary tool for gaining unauthorized access to organizational networks. This type of malicious software extracts sensitive data from infected devices, often referred to as bots. The stolen information typically includes browser credentials, passwords, cookies, credit card details and cryptocurrency wallet data.

    Additionally, logs harvested by infostealers are increasingly traded on the cybercriminal underground and are frequently used as a gateway for further attacks. These logs often enable initial access for ransomware deployments, data breaches, and cyber-enabled fraud schemes such as Business Email Compromise (BEC).

    Following the operation, authorities notified over 216,000 victims and potential victims so they could take immediate action – such as changing passwords, freezing accounts, or removing unauthorized access.

    Operational highlights

    Vietnamese police arrested 18 suspects, seizing devices from their homes and workplaces. The group’s leader was found with over VND 300 million (USD 11,500) in cash, SIM cards and business registration documents, pointing to a scheme to open and sell corporate accounts.

    As part of their respective enforcement efforts under Operation Secure, house raids were carried out by authorities in Sri Lanka and Nauru. These actions led to the arrest of 14 individuals – 12 in Sri Lanka and two in Nauru – as well as the identification of 40 victims.

    The Hong Kong Police analysed over 1,700 pieces of intelligence provided by INTERPOL and identified 117 command-and-control servers hosted across 89 internet service providers. These servers were used by cybercriminals as central hubs to launch and manage malicious campaigns, including phishing, online fraud and social media scams.

    Neal Jetton, INTERPOL’s Director of Cybercrime, said:

    “INTERPOL continues to support practical, collaborative action against global cyber threats. Operation Secure has once again shown the power of intelligence sharing in disrupting malicious infrastructure and preventing large-scale harm to both individuals and businesses.”

    Notes to editors

    Operation Secure is a regional initiative organized under the Asia and South Pacific Joint Operations Against Cybercrime (ASPJOC) Project.

    Participating countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Fiji, Hong Kong (China), India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Korea (Rep of), Laos, Macau (China), Malaysia, Maldives, Nauru, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Vanuatu, Vietnam.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Q+A follows The Project onto the scrap heap – so where to now for non-traditional current affairs?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Denis Muller, Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancing Journalism, The University of Melbourne

    Two long-running television current affairs programs are coming to an end at the same time, driving home the fact that no matter what the format, they have a shelf life.

    The Project on Channel 10 will end this month after 16 years, and after 18 years on the ABC, Q+A will not return from its current hiatus.

    Each was innovative in very different ways.

    Q+A was designed specifically to generate public participation. Its format of five panellists, a host and a studio audience of up to 1,000 was a daring experiment, because the audience was invited to ask questions that were not vetted in advance.

    This live-to-air approach gave it an edgy atmosphere not often achieved on television. From time to time, the edginess was real.

    In 2022, an audience member made a statement supporting Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and repeated Russian propaganda to the effect that Ukraine’s Azov battalion was a Nazi group that had killed an estimated 13,000 people in the Donbas region.

    After a brief discussion of these allegations, the host Stan Grant asked the man to leave, saying other audience members had been talking about family members who were dying in the war, and he could not countenance the advocating of violence.

    In 2017 the Sudanese-Australian writer Yassmin Abdel-Magied was involved in a fiery exchange with Senator Jacqui Lambie over sharia law.

    They had been asked by an audience member if it was time to define new rules surrounding migration to avoid community conflict, to which Lambie replied: “Anyone that supports sharia law should be deported.”

    Abdel-Magied questioned if Lambie even knew what that meant, before getting into a heated defence of feminism and Islam.

    In 2024, an audience member listening to politicians on the panel debate family violence could not contain his frustration, calling out:

    How dare you go into politics, in an environment like this, when one woman is murdered every four days, and all you […] can do is immediately talk about politics? That is just disgraceful.

    His outburst went viral.

    He had put his finger on what was an increasing problem with the program. It became hostage to fixed political positions among those of its panellists drawn from party politics.

    As a result, it became predictable, and although the surprise element supplied by audience participation remained a strength, the panellists’ responses increasingly became echoes of their parties’ policies.

    While the objective no doubt was to achieve a range of perspectives, it began to look like stage-managed political controversy.

    This is not to criticise the established presenters – Tony Jones, who fronted the program for 11 years, Stan Grant and most recently Patricia Karvelas, all gifted journalists who adroitly managed the time bombs occasionally set off in their midst.

    Unfortunately, especially for Grant, the program was a lightning rod for attacks on the ABC by The Australian newspaper. ABC management’s abandonment of him, after a particularly vicious attack in 2023 over his commentary during coverage of the king’s coronation, was disgraceful.

    Resigning from the program, Grant said: “Since the king’s coronation, I have seen people in the media lie and distort my words. They have tried to depict me as hate filled. They have accused me of maligning Australia. Nothing could be further from the truth.”

    The ABC is promising to continue with audience-participation programming along the lines of Your Say, a kind of online questionnaire which the ABC says was successfully tried during the 2025 federal election.

    How such a format would translate to television is not clear.

    Meanwhile at Ten, there is promise of a new current affairs program, but details are scant.

    The Project will be a hard act to follow. It promised “news done differently” – and it delivered. News stories were given context and a touch of humanity by a combination of humour, accidents, slips of the tongue and the intellectual firepower of Waleed Aly.

    Aly is a Sunni Muslim, and his “ISIL is weak” speech in 2015 spoke directly and passionately to the fears of the public at the peak of one of the many panics over terrorism.

    Inevitably, much of the attention in the wake of the announced closure has been on the celebrated gaffes of long-time presenter Carrie Bickmore, a little rich to be reproduced in a sober article such as this, but findable here.

    It may not be an auspicious time for launching a new current affairs program at Ten. Its ultimate parent company, Paramount, in the United States, is in the process of negotiating a settlement with US President Donald Trump over a trumped-up court case in which the president is suing the company for US$20 billion (A$30.7 billion).

    He says an interview done by another Paramount company, CBS News, with the Democrats’ former presidential nominee Kamala Harris during the election campaign was “deceptively edited”.

    This is said to have no prospect of succeeding in court, but Paramount wishes to merge with Skydance Media and fears the Trump administration would block it if the company doesn’t come across. The Wall Street Journal is reporting it is proposing to settle for $15 million.

    Senior editorial staff at CBS have already resigned in protest at Paramount’s cowardice, so what price editorial independence at Ten?

    Denis Muller 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. Q+A follows The Project onto the scrap heap – so where to now for non-traditional current affairs? – https://theconversation.com/q-a-follows-the-project-onto-the-scrap-heap-so-where-to-now-for-non-traditional-current-affairs-258690

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Beni: Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO) Celebrates World Environment Day by Planting Trees in a School


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    In Beni, North Kivu Province, MONUSCO celebrated World Environment Day on Thursday, June 5, by organizing an awareness campaign and planting trees at a local school. “It’s a very important day” said Adam Obatoki Salami, acting head of the UN mission’s sub-office.

    Celebrated every year on June 5 since 1973, World Environment Day is the largest global platform for environmental public awareness, observed by millions of people around the world.

    According to Adam Obatoki Salami, this year’s celebration was an opportunity to raise awareness about the harmful impact and dangers of plastic materials that pollute the environment. The theme chosen for this year is: “Beat Plastic Pollution.”.

    “It’s a call for everyone to take responsibility so that we can collectively protect our environment and fight against the dangers of plastic pollution. Our message to the people of Beni is, first, that MONUSCO is committed to combating plastic pollution, working toward a better environment, and raising awareness so people consider environmental issues in their daily lives. We’ve planned several awareness activities throughout the city for this day.” noted Adam Obatoki.

    Among these activities were tree planting events at MONUSCO’s Mavivi base and at Matembo Primary School, along with public awareness meetings on environmental protection.

    Moïse Adirodu, Head of Administration and Finance at the environmental coordination office in Beni, believes MONUSCO is fulfilling its role in full cooperation with local authorities:

    “MONUSCO plays an active role in environmental management. It implements waste management strategies and makes efforts to reduce its carbon footprint in its decision-making processes, in line with the objectives of the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit. Through its actions in the city of Beni, MONUSCO has become a key partner for our environmental coordination. I’d like to recall that when the mayor of Beni launched the community cleanup initiatives—commonly known as Salongo—MONUSCO was leading from the front. We truly appreciate this kind of partnership” he said.

    According to the United Nations, more than 400 million tons of plastic are produced every year, half of which is designed for single use. Less than 10% of this plastic is recycled. An estimated 11 million tons of plastic end up in lakes, rivers, and oceans annually—and Beni’s rivers are no exception.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Beni: Judicial Actors and Police Officers Trained in Criminal Investigation Techniques


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    About twenty staff members from the military and civil judicial administration of Beni and Butembo, as well as Congolese police officers, attended two simultaneous training sessions from May 26 to June 5, 2025, at MONUSCO’s headquarters in Beni. The first focused on ballistic expertise applied to criminal trials, while the second centered on cybercrime and digital investigation techniques.

    Over the ten days, the trainees—including public prosecutors, judicial police officers, and police agents—followed a comprehensive training program combining theoretical presentations, practical workshops, case studies, and experience sharing. The sessions were led by experts in ballistics and judicial investigation from MONUSCO’s Justice Support Section.

    According to the participants, the training helped deepen their technical and legal skills in response to firearm-related crime. Among them was Commissioner Dieumerci Lomoyo Bongwalo of the Congolese National Police, who said he learned many important concepts related to criminality.

    He praised the quality of the training, stating that it would enhance his professional skills and help the Congolese justice system better respond to challenges, particularly those arising from the development of new technologies.

    “We learned a lot about techniques, methods, etc. We explored the different types of ballistics: internal ballistics, external ballistics, and terminal ballistics. All of this was new to us. We also learned how things work with firearms and different types of ammunition. This added real value to our profession. From now on, we’ll be able to conduct ballistic investigations and write reports for the appropriate authorities. We’re going to improve the way we work because we’ve gained new knowledge” he stated.

    Like the other participants, Commissioner Dieumerci Lomoyo Bongwalo expressed hope that MONUSCO would organize more training sessions of this kind to help judicial administration agents deepen their understanding of criminality and investigative procedures.

    “This will really help us. These are lifelong skills. We won’t lose them. It’s a real asset” the officer emphasized.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Malaria has returned to the Torres Strait. What does this mean for mainland Australia?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cameron Webb, Clinical Associate Professor and Principal Hospital Scientist, University of Sydney

    Aspect Drones/Shutterstock

    Malaria is one of the deadliest diseases spread by mosquitoes. Each year, hundreds of millions of people worldwide are infected and half a million people die from the disease.

    While mainland Australia was declared malaria-free in 1981, from time to time travellers return to Australia with an infection.

    Infections from local mosquitoes are incredibly rare. However, last week two cases of locally acquired malaria were reported in the Torres Strait.

    So what does this mean for local communities? And is this a risk for mainland Australia?

    What is malaria?

    Unlike other mosquito-borne disease, malaria is caused by protozoan parasites, not viruses. These parasites belong to the Plasmodium genus. While five of these parasites are considered a human health concern, Plasmodium falciparum poses the most serious threat.

    Symptoms can be mild and include fever, chills and headache. But sometimes people develop severe symptoms, such as fatigue, confusion, seizures and difficulty breathing.

    Without appropriate medical care, the disease can be fatal. Those most at risk of life-threatening illness include infants, children under five years, pregnant women and patients with HIV and AIDS.

    How does it spread?

    Malaria parasites are spread by the bite of a mosquito carrying the malaria parasite.

    Not all mosquitoes can carry the parasite. The group of mosquitoes responsible for most malaria transmission is called Anopheles. Aedes and Culex mosquitoes, which are typically associated with the spread of viruses, don’t transmit malaria to people.

    The Anopheles group of mosquitoes play an important role in transmitting malaria parasites.
    Cameron Webb (NSW Health Pathology), CC BY-NC-ND

    While there are medications available to prevent malaria, and these are routinely recommended to travellers, this is not a sustainable approach for communities within regions at risk. The cost of medications, as well as the risk parasites may develop resistance to medications over time, are barriers for routine use in high risk countries.

    Alternative strategies include using insecticide-treated bed nets and controlling mosquitoes by spraying insecticide on and around homes. Early diagnosis and treatment of those suspected to have an infection is also crucial.

    ‘Imported’ versus ‘locally acquired’ infections

    There is an important distinction between “imported” and “locally acquired” cases of malaria.

    “Imported” cases mean the person has been infected overseas and returned to Australia, where they’ve been diagnosed and treated. These cases appear in official statistics but are not the result of local mosquito bites.

    “Locally acquired” cases are where a person is infected without any overseas travel. These cases often result from the parasites first introduced into Australia by infected travellers. The travellers are then bitten by local mosquitoes that go on to bite and spread the pathogens to people who haven’t travelled.

    The last locally acquired malaria outbreak in mainland Australia occurred in 2002, when ten people were infected in Far North Queensland.

    When this happens, it indicates local mosquitoes are carrying the malaria parasites and there is a significant risk further infections have occurred (but are not yet diagnosed) or may be diagnosed in the near future. Mosquito control or other initiatives are required to prevent larger outbreaks.

    In the case of the Torres Strait, there is also the risk infected mosquitoes are transported, either by wind or boats, from Papua New Guinea.

    So, what’s happening in the Torres Strait?

    Queensland Health is currently investigating two recent cases of locally acquired malaria on Saibai Island.

    But cases of locally acquired malaria aren’t unusual in the Torres Strait. They’re often suspected to be linked to movement of people into the islands from PNG, a country that reports more than a million suspected cases of malaria each year.

    Previous locally acquired malaria cases in the Torres Strait were reported in 2023. Before that, a single case was reported in 2013 and eight cases in 2011.

    The tropical climate of the Torres Strait and presence of Anopheles mosquitoes means conditions are right for local spread once the parasites are introduced, either through infected mosquitoes or people.



    Read more:
    Torres Strait Islanders face more than their fair share of health impacts from climate change

    Could malaria spread to mainland Australia?

    Since the 1980s, there have only been a small number of cases reported on mainland Australia. The majority are in travellers returning to Australia who were infected overseas.

    Historically, malaria cases were reported in many parts of the country, especially in the 1940s, including suburbs around Sydney when soldiers infected overseas returned to Australia.

    The mosquitoes capable of spreading the parasites then are still present today. While the most important malaria mosquito in Australia, Anopheles faurati, is limited to northern regions of coastal Australia, Anopheles annulipes is widespread across much of the country.

    But just because the mosquitoes are there, it doesn’t mean there will be an outbreak of malaria.

    The parasite needs to be introduced and it needs to be warm enough for it to complete its life cycle in local mosquitoes. The cooler it is, the less likely that is to happen, even if suitable mosquitoes are present.

    The parasites also face additional challenges. Infected people need to be bitten by local Anopheles mosquitoes, not just any mosquitoes. And with modern health-care systems in Australia, untreated sick people are less likely to be exposed to mosquito bites.

    Malaria is one of the mosquito-borne pathogens considered at risk of increasing as a result of climate change. But there are many other factors at play that will determine future outbreak risk in mainland Australia, especially outside the tropical north of the country, such as a changing climate and seasonal changes in numbers and types of mosquitoes.

    How to stay safe

    The most important way local communities and visitors to the Torres Strait can stay safe is to avoid mosquito bites.

    Cover up when possible with long-sleeved shirts, long pants and covered shoes and apply an insect repellent.

    Insect screens, whether on buildings or in the form of bed nets will also provide protection overnight.



    Read more:
    Mozzies biting? Here’s how to choose a repellent (and how to use it for the best protection)

    Cameron Webb and the Department of Medical Entomology, NSW Health Pathology and University of Sydney, have been engaged by a wide range of insect repellent and insecticide manufacturers to provide testing of products and provide expert advice on medically important arthropods, including mosquitoes. Cameron has also received funding from local, state and federal agencies to undertake research into various aspects of mosquito and mosquito-borne disease management.

    – ref. Malaria has returned to the Torres Strait. What does this mean for mainland Australia? – https://theconversation.com/malaria-has-returned-to-the-torres-strait-what-does-this-mean-for-mainland-australia-258289

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Standing Committee on Appropriations Calls for Urgency in Dealing with Municipal Debt to Eskom


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    The Standing Committee on Appropriations has urged Eskom to collaborate closely with the National Treasury and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs to ensure that there is full municipal cooperation in the implementation of the Distribution Agency Agreement (DAA) programme.

    The power utility briefed the committee today regarding the Eskom Debt Relief Bill. The committee expressed deep concern over Eskom’s increasing debt levels and that the power utility continues its trajectory towards unsustainable indebtedness.

    The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Mmusi Maimane said: “When we examine the various pieces of legislation under consideration by this committee, it is undeniable that Eskom remains a pivotal component. The state of Eskom’s liquidity, along with serious concerns raised by municipalities around debt servicing are critical factors, especially in light of the appropriations made to Eskom.”

    Mr Maimane said he feared that Eskom will be heavily indebted despite being in receipt of the Eskom Debt Relief Bill. The committee further said the lack of urgency in addressing underperforming and financially distressed municipalities, many of which are unable to service their debts to Eskom, is a major contributor to Eskom’s debt burden.

    The committee also highlighted that Eskom was not doing enough to curb the ‘ghost tokens’ in the pre-paid electricity segment and the failure to address it has contributed to significant revenue losses.

    Furthermore, the committee recommended that the power utility needs to ensure that it deals decisively with acts of sabotage carried out by its own employees. The committee cautioned that that the power utility needs to begin exploring ways to harness its own energy sources and not rely on independent power producers as this process can easily be influenced by political forces.

    The committee called on Eskom to urgently implement decisive reforms to address inefficiencies, improve governance, enhance revenue collection, and safeguard its infrastructure.

    The committee will tomorrow, 11 June receive a briefing from the City of Johannesburg and the City of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipalities on the 2025 Division of Revenue Bill.

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Philippines and Angola Explore Tourism Cooperation in First Bilateral Business Forum


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    The Philippine Embassy in Lisbon, together with the PH-Angola  Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIAF), and in coordination with the Philippine  Department of Tourism (DOT), Asian Institute of Management (AIM), Philippine  Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Angola’s Ministry of Tourism, and AIPEX,  successfully held the First Philippines-Angola Business Forum on Sustainable Tourism on 30 May 2025 via virtual platform. 

    The Forum was held at the Philippine Honorary Consulate General’s Office in  Dipanda, Angola, under the leadership of Honorary Consul General Etienne Brechet,  with Honorary Consul Megan Brechet-Amamou as Forum host. 

    With the theme “Sustainable Tourism: A Pathway to Economic and Cultural  Development,” the Forum brought together government officials, private sector  representatives, and tourism stakeholders from both countries to explore opportunities  for bilateral cooperation, tourism development, and sustainable investment, with  particular focus on promoting Namibe Province as an emerging tourism destination. 

    The Philippine side shared its experiences in tourism policy development, post pandemic recovery efforts, sustainable tourism strategies, and private sector engagement. Presentations covered the Philippines’ legal and institutional  frameworks, ecotourism strategies, tourism infrastructure investments, and  approaches to ensuring that tourism development preserves cultural heritage and  ecological integrity. 

    Angola’s delegation, led by Angola’s Ministry of Tourism and CCIAF, presented the tourism potential of Namibe province, identifying opportunities in eco- and adventure  tourism, resort development, and cultural tourism, and expressed keen interest in  building business partnerships with Philippine stakeholders. 

    The Angolan side also conveyed their utmost appreciation for the comprehensive  presentations provided by the Philippine speakers and expressed a strong desire to  learn from the Philippines’ expertise in sustainable tourism development. 

    The Forum concluded with mutual interest in pursuing reciprocal business missions, tourism training exchanges, and joint promotional efforts to advance sustainable  tourism cooperation between the Philippines and Angola.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mozambique: Spiralling hunger crisis and violence amid collapsing aid budgets


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    In a visit to the neglected crisis raging in the north of Mozambique, Egeland described it as at a “critical tipping point,” sounding the alarm over skyrocketing violence, the devastation from multiple cyclones, and the near collapse of aid lifelines due to global funding cuts.  

    “In a region suffering from daily atrocities and monthly disasters, I have seen the human toll caused by the global retreat of solidarity and funding. Climate shocks, increasing violence, and spiralling hunger are having a terrible impact on the population. They now stand at the edge of an abyss, with immense suffering ahead unless the world ends its neglect,” said Egeland.  

    Armed attacks in Cabo Delgado surged by 155 per cent in March alone, with 52 atrocities resulting in 153 abductions and 39 killings. The violence has displaced over 1.4 million people to date, while more than 600,000 others who have returned home now face renewed insecurity and little to no assistance.  

    Simultaneously, three consecutive cyclones—Chido, Dikeledi, and Jude—have battered Mozambique in just three months, affecting more than 1.4 million people, and destroying homes, schools, health centres and farmland across several provinces.  

    The compounded crises have pushed nearly five million Mozambicans into critical levels of hunger, with over 900,000 facing emergency conditions—just one step below famine.   

    “Hunger took hold in Mozambique the moment conflict did,” Egeland said. “Where bullets fly, crops wither, supply chains collapse, and families are left hungry.”  

    In conflict-hit Cabo Delgado, farming and markets have collapsed; in Nampula and Zambezia, cyclone-damaged crops have left families struggling to survive.  

    Fuel shortages, infrastructure damage, and insecurity are now paralysing aid operations across the country. Humanitarian agencies, including NRC, have been forced to reduce life-saving activities due to lack of funds and growing access challenges, including administrative and bureaucratic restrictions, attacks and ambushes on aid convoys.  

    “In 2024, we reached over 125,000 people, but the scale of this crisis far outstrips our current capacity,” Egeland said. “We have been forced to drastically reduce our first line response—such as survival kits and shelters to people left homeless by the latest cyclone—because of the US funding cuts.”   

    The World Food Programme has already halved its assistance, reaching only 520,000 people of the one million targeted in 2024. This year, the number of people receiving food aid is expected to plummet even further to just 250,000, despite the growing number of people in need.  

    “Mothers I met told me they don’t know who they would turn to if we had to stop helping them,” Egeland said. “They’ve already had to cut down on their food, and their children are sleeping hungry. I want to be clear that, whatever happens, we are here to stay and deliver, and we must find a way to keep delivering in a world of chaos.   

    “I call on governments and the private sector to urgently mobilise funding, guarantee safe access for aid workers, and commit to long-term support for the rights and dignity of displaced Mozambicans. Several governments and multinational corporations are in Mozambique for its natural resources, with little returns to the impoverished population.”  

    NRC stresses the need for immediate and sustained international action to avert a full-scale famine, restore food security, and support the country’s fragile recovery. This includes urgent investment in agricultural recovery and fisheries support for coastal areas, nutrition for children, and protection for people forced to flee violence.  

    “Turning our backs now is not an option—for the sake of millions facing starvation, and for our shared humanity,” Egeland said.  

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Museveni and the First Lady Renew their National Identity Cards


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    President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the First Lady also Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni have this afternoon participated in the ongoing mass registration and renewal exercise of the National Identity cards at State Lodge, Nakasero.

    The project is being implemented by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and the renewal exercise was efficiently conducted by a team from the authority, led by the Executive Director, Ms. Rosemary Kisembo.

    The registration of citizens is regarded as a crucial component of national security, ensuring that every individual is accounted for within the nation’s identity framework. Enhanced biometric technology associated with these ID cards provides a reliable and unalterable means of establishing identity.

    This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening national identity systems and fostering socio-economic transformation.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Uganda.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget CEO Gracy Chen Featured in Coindesk’s Top 50 Women in Web3 and AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company is excited to share that Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, has been featured in CoinDesk’s 2025 list of the Top 50 Women in Web3 and AI, an esteemed recognition that celebrates influential leaders shaping the future of digital finance and technology. The annual list accumulates leaders across blockchain, crypto, and artificial intelligence who are advancing innovation and inclusion in emerging tech sectors.

    Among the top ten honorees, Chen stands alongside industry luminaries such as Daniela Amodei of Anthropic, Anima Anandkumar of Caltech, Teana Baker‑Taylor of Venice.ai, MIT’s Regina Barzilay, Hedera’s Betsabe Botaitis, Société Générale’s Stéphanie Cabossioras, Trust Wallet’s Eowyn Chen, BlackRock’s Samara Cohen, Coinbase’s Emilie Choi, and Delphine Forma from Solidus Labs along with forty other exceptional women.

    Compiled through a rigorous and inclusive process, the list was curated by CoinDesk’s editorial team in consultation with a diverse panel of women leaders from organizations including Google, Spotify, and the Association of Women in Crypto. Over 300 nominations from around the world were evaluated, with finalists chosen for their innovation, influence, and relevance in shaping Web3 and AI’s next chapter.

    Chen stands out not only as the sole woman CEO among the top 10 global crypto exchanges, but also as the leader behind Bitget’s global growth. Since taking over the role of CEO in May 2024, she has steered the platform through a phase of accelerated growth. Under her leadership, Bitget has grown its user base from 20 million to over 120 million users globally, placing it firmly among the top three exchanges by trading volume worldwide.

    Her tenure has been marked by a strategic shift that broadened Bitget’s offerings well beyond derivatives. Today, the platform features world-class capabilities in spot trading, a thriving Launchpad and Launchpool ecosystem, AI-powered copy trading, asset management tools, and a widely adopted self-custody wallet through Bitget Wallet. Chen also plays an active role in expanding institutional relationships and securing high-impact partnerships that deepen Bitget’s footprint across key markets.

    Outside of product and business development, Chen has made social responsibility a strong pillar of her leadership agenda at Bitget. She leads a $10 million Blockchain4Her (B4H) initiative, which was started to address gender equity in the blockchain industry. The initiative focuses on supporting women builders, developers, and entrepreneurs through education, funding, mentorship, and access to the global Web3 ecosystem. As a delegate to the UN Women CSW conference, Chen also brings critical Web3 perspectives to global discussions on gender and technology. Her background spans over a decade of experience in investment, entrepreneurship, and tech leadership.

    Gracy Chen’s inclusion in CoinDesk’s Top 50 Women in Web3 and AI reflects her accomplishments in scaling Bitget into a multi-dimensional Web3 platform, and her growing influence in shaping a more inclusive future for the crypto industry.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ab3a5db6-f6a0-4390-aaf9-6c59a2705c6a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Africa see rapid trade growth over past 25 years

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    A coffee exhibitor shows coffee products during an exhibition at the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Nairobi, Kenya, May 9, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Economic and trade cooperation between China and Africa has demonstrated strong vitality, with a rapid increase in trade volume over the past 25 years, official data showed on Wednesday.

    China’s total imports and exports with African countries increased from less than 100 billion yuan (about 13.9 billion U.S. dollars) in 2000 to 2.1 trillion yuan in 2024, marking an average annual growth of 14.2 percent, according to the General Administration of Customs (GAC).

    The data was released ahead of the Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, scheduled to be held from June 12 to 15 in Changsha, capital of central China’s Hunan Province.

    On Wednesday, the GAC also published the 2024 China-Africa trade index, which reached a record high of 1,056.53 points. The index uses the year 2000 as its benchmark, set at 100 points, according to the administration.

    China had been Africa’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years by the end of 2024, and the growth of bilateral trade has continued to pick up pace so far in 2025.

    According to earlier data from the GAC, China’s trade with African countries hit a record high in the first five months of this year, increasing 12.4 percent year on year to 963.21 billion yuan. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Limpopo a province of boundless opportunity

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Limpopo a province of boundless opportunity

    Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has called on the Diplomatic Corps to view Limpopo as a province of boundless opportunity.

    “Our economy is powered by three key drivers, mining, agriculture, and tourism, each offering lucrative potential for investment and growth,” Ramathuba said.

    Speaking at a Diplomatic Corps breakfast in Thohoyandou on Saturday, she said Limpopo was rich in mineral wealth, home to vast deposits of platinum, diamonds and rare earth minerals that are crucial to the modern world.

    “The global demand for these resources continues to grow, and Limpopo is well-positioned to be a leading supplier, offering a stable and investor-friendly environment for responsible mining and beneficiation,” Ramathuba said.

    Limpopo remains the breadbasket of South Africa, she said, producing a significant portion of the country’s fresh produce, including citrus, avocados and macadamia nuts.

    “With fertile lands and a climate suited for year-round production, we are not just feeding the nation, we are feeding the world. 

    “We seek partnerships that will drive agro-processing, value addition and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that our agricultural sector remains a pillar of economic resilience.

    “Our province is a place where nature, culture and heritage converge. From the breathtaking landscapes of the Kruger National Park to the ancient wonders of Mapungubwe, we offer an unparalleled tourism experience,” the Premier said.

    Ramathuba said the hospitality of Limpopo people, combined with world-class facilities, makes the province a premier destination for both domestic and international travelers.

    “We therefore invite you to join us in expanding this sector, developing eco-tourism, luxury lodges, and cultural heritage sites that will continue to draw visitors from across the globe.

    “Our province is not just an economic hub, it is a strategic gateway to Africa. Limpopo shares borders with Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, making it a key trade corridor for goods and services moving across the continent. 

    “Our transfrontier parks and cross-border infrastructure position us as a link between SADC markets and global investors looking for an entry point into Africa’s growing economies,” the Premier said.

    The province hosted the first Outreach Program of the Group of 20 (G20) on Friday. The Premier described it as a historic milestone.

    “The G20 represents 85% of global GDP, 75% of global trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population. The outreach was more than just a dialogue, it was a powerful opportunity for the people of Limpopo to understand and engage with South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

    “Moreover, it allowed us to showcase our investment potential in mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and the green economy,” she said.

    Ramathuba said Limpopo was ready to open doors to investors, to forge new partnerships and to build a future where the province stands as a global leader in industrialisation and sustainable development.

    “Limpopo is open for business. Our investment landscape is rich with potential and we stand ready to work alongside you to turn vision into reality,” Ramathuba said.

    At a gala dinner on Friday, the Premier told the Diplomatic Corps that Limpopo was a land of immense potential, rich in culture, heritage and economic opportunities.

    “We encourage you to consider Limpopo not just as a tourist destination but as a region ripe for investment. Tourism is one of the key drivers of our economy, creating jobs and supporting local communities,” she said.

    She said the province believed that investment in infrastructure, particularly in roads, bridges, and logistics would unlock the full economic potential of the province.

    “When businesses and farmers have access to reliable roads, they can transport goods efficiently, engage in larger markets, and ultimately grow their enterprises. 

    “We invite our esteemed guests and members of the Diplomatic Corps to explore opportunities in infrastructure development, as we seek partnerships that will transform Limpopo into a well-connected economic hub,” she said.

    Limpopo is blessed with fertile soil and a climate that supports diverse agricultural activities. 

    “We are committed to strengthening our farming industry by supporting small-scale farmers to transition into commercial farming,” the Premier said.  

    Friday’s launch of the G20 Outreach Programme forms part of a series of initiatives aimed at fostering wider public dialogue and participation in South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

    South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency on 1 December 2024.

    The G20 is a group of 19 countries, as well as the African Union and the European Union, which defines itself as the premier forum for global economic cooperation. – SAnews.gov.za

    Edwin

    9493 views

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deadline for comments into CPA discussion papers looms 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deadline for comments into CPA discussion papers looms 

    The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD) is appealing to citizens to make their voices heard as the deadline for comments into the discussion papers for the review of the Criminal Procedure Act draws closer. 

    Last month, the Deputy Ministers in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster welcomed the publication of the discussion papers on the review of the Act which were released by the South African Law Reform Commission (SALRC).

    The review seeks to address systemic challenges in the Act, particularly in relation to provisions that deal with arrest, bail, alternative dispute resolution, and victim participation in the criminal justice process.

    In an interview with SAnews, the Deputy Director-General for Court Administration at the DOJ&CD Lucky Mohalaba said the Act was outdated.

    “It’s a pre-1994 piece of legislation and one of the key areas which the department and the [JCPS] cluster is faced with, is how do we ensure that important legislation like the Criminal Procedure Act [CPA] is reviewed to be in line with the Constitution? Our Constitution actually was signed into law after the Criminal Procedure Act,” he remarked of the 1977 legislation.

    The act makes provision for procedures and related matters in criminal proceedings.

    “This initiative from the department as led by Deputy Minister [Andries] Nel is really a milestone. Firstly to ensure that we comply and are in line with the constitutional imperatives including the issues that relate to equality [and] transparency.  
    “The work that the Law Reform Commission has undertaken is going to result in the reform of legislation, including the Criminal Procedure Act,” said Mohalaba.

    The SALRC released the discussion papers covering the pre-trial stage on the Bail System Reform, Arrest Dispensation Reform, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Criminal Matters and the Non-Trial Resolutions (NTRs): Deferred Prosecution, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Non-Prosecution.

    “In the main, there are components where the issue of the bail dispensation is going to be looked at. Secondly, the issues that relate to the arrest dispensation is going to be looked at. Part of the issues raised there is [that] should people be arrested for having committed certain crimes or should they be given dates to come to court and appear in court for those crimes? 

    “Are we not increasing the numbers in our correctional centres by arresting everyone? So those are the areas that the research papers are looking at,” the DDG said of the four papers that were first published on 20 February 2025.

    This as the comment period into the documents will close on 31 March 2025.

    Content of the documents

    The Bail System Reform discussion document speaks to ensuring a balanced approach that upholds the rights of accused persons while addressing public safety concerns, reducing lengthy pre-trial detention, and easing overcrowding in correctional facilities.

    Chapter 1 of the Review of South Africa’s Bail System document, states that the country’s bail law forms an “integral part of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 a law of apartheid extraction which has been in existence for almost five decades.” 

    It further states that it is “also probable that the relevant provisions have become obsolete and redundant.”

    South Africa’s bail system is regulated under Chapter 9 of the CPA with the review aiming to align bail laws with constitutional principles while also tackling inefficiencies.

    Challenges with bail for foreign nationals, limited police powers in the granting of bail, the strict verification of accused persons’ residential addresses as well as affordability issues that prevent accused individuals from securing bail are some of the deficiencies identified in the current bail system according to Chapter 2 of the document.

    The proposals for reform include enhancing victim rights where courts should consider victim safety when granting bail as well as that victims should be informed of bail proceedings and allowed to express their concerns. 

    The proposals for reform in the document also talks to reducing delays and overcrowding where automatic bail reviews to avoid unnecessary detentions is introduced while revising bail conditions. The proposal is that alternative measures be found for those who can’t afford bail.

    The document states that in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Commission “lamented the failure of the law to cater specifically for victims of crime. It argued, at the time, that if the position of victims was not drastically reformed in the criminal justice system, it would lead to a legitimacy crisis.”

    The Arrest Dispensation Reform speaks to promoting alternative measures, such as summons, to secure court attendance and reduce unlawful and unnecessary arrests. 

    Chapter 3 of this discussion paper states that the CPA outlines the methods for securing the court attendance of accused persons. This as Section 38 of the legislation “provides that the methods of securing the court appearance of accused persons are arrest, written notice, summons and indictment.” 

    However, the CPA doesn’t specify which of the measures should be used in “certain situations, nor does it mandate the utilisation of the least intrusive measure.”

    The paper notes that arrest should only be used as a last resort when other methods (summons, written notices) are inadequate and that police discretion in arrest decisions is broad, often leading to unnecessary detentions and overcrowding in prisons. 

    The paper proposes the amendment of Section 39 of the CPA to define the purpose of arrest, preventing misuse as well as the amendment of Section 40 to restrict arrests without warrants, ensuring judicial oversight.

    Section 39 of the Act states that an arrest can be effected with or without a warrant and, unless the person to be arrested submits to custody, by actually touching his body or, if the circumstances so require, by forcibly confining his body.

    It also states that at the time of effecting the arrest or immediately after effecting the arrest, the person effecting it should inform the arrested person of the cause of the arrest. It adds that in an arrest effected by virtue of a warrant, upon demand of the person arrested, a copy of the warrant must be given.

    Meanwhile, section 40 of the Act talks to the arrest by peace officers. This is whereby a peace officer may without  a warrant arrest any person who commits or attempts to commit any offence in his presence or a person who has escaped or who attempts to escape from lawful custody, among others.

    According to the CPA, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development has the power to declare by notice in the Government Gazette any category of persons, by virtue of their office, as peace officers for specific purposes.
    This as peace officers are not police officials. 

    The proposal made in the document speaks to clarifying the powers of peace officers as well as creating an oversight mechanism. It also notes that electronic summons and written notice could replace many physical arrests among others.

    The third document which is the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Criminal Matters, speaks to challenges in the criminal justice system such as the over-reliance on imprisonment leading to overcrowding and the high costs of traditional prosecution among others.

    The document notes that the country’s “legal system does not make provision for the coherent and unified regulation of ADR in criminal matters, a concept which, in foreign jurisdictions may be referred to in a number of ways, including discretionary prosecution, waiver of prosecution and out of court settlements.”

    The proposed reforms it makes include the expanded use of ADR for minor offenses. This includes conditional withdrawals of prosecution, greater victim participation in ADR processes as well as focussing on restorative justice that includes victim-offender mediation. This also includes community-based sentencing alternatives such as rehabilitation programmes and community service.

    The fourth discussion document known as the Non-Trial Resolutions (NTRs): Deferred Prosecution, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Non-Prosecution explores NTRs as an alternative to traditional criminal prosecutions. 

    It focuses on Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs), Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and Non-Prosecution Agreements (NPAs), particularly in corruption and financial crime cases.

    It states that traditional criminal trials for corporate and economic crimes are slow, costly, and complex adding that NTRs encourage self-reporting, corporate reform, and financial restitution without lengthy trials.

    It states that the country lacks a structured legal framework for non-trial resolutions, unlike countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

    The document adds that the Zondo Commission recommends the proposed introduction of   Deferred Prosecution Agreements for companies implicated in corruption.  Appointed by the President, The Zondo Commission was a commission of inquiry that investigated state capture in South Africa.

    The DPAs allow companies to admit wrongdoing, pay fines, and commit to reforms in exchange for prosecutorial leniency.
    The benefits of NTRs are that they encourage companies to cooperate with law enforcement and also reduces court backlogs while prioritising serious cases for trial.

    The recommendation is that NTRs should be legislated to provide clear guidelines for corporate settlements as well as ensure judicial oversight to prevent abuse among others.

    In November 2023, former Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola appointed an Advisory Committee consisting of eight experts chaired by the former Judge President of Mpumalanga, Justice Francis Legodi to advise the Law Reform Commission on the review of the Criminal Justice System. 

    The Law Reform Commission is currently chaired by former Constitutional Court judge, Justice Chris Jafta.

    Reforming SA’s laws 

    At the release of the discussion papers, Deputy Minister Nel spoke of the need to transform the justice system.
    The DDG said discussion documents provide an opportunity for citizens to debate the proposals.

    “I’m quite certain that given the launch of the discussion documents these then will present an opportunity for South Africans to debate the proposals made in the documents which will ultimately result in the Criminal Procedure Bill which will replace the current Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 so that we are more aligned to our constitutional values as a country.

    “We really wish to welcome members of the public, NGOs [non-government organisations], community organisations to make sure that they make inputs into the discussion papers. This is quite an important area for us as a country going forward to reform and modernise the laws that are applicable currently,” he said.

    The discussion papers which were released at a media briefing in Pretoria 20 February, can be accessed at https://www.justice.gov.za/salrc/dpapers.htm .  
    –SAnews.gov.za

    Neo

    5430 views

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Young professional makes strides in the engineering field

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Young professional makes strides in the engineering field

    Portia Maposse is one of the country’s young black women who are gradually invading traditionally male-dominated fields.

    The 25-year-old is a systems engineer at the Gibela Rail Transport Consortium in Nigel, Gauteng. Gibela is a black economic empowerment (BEE) rail transport consortium comprising Alstom and uBumbano Rail. 

    It was established in 2013, as a ring-fenced company for the execution of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA) rolling-stock fleet-renewal programme. This contract is meant to deliver 600 trainsets to PRASA and provide technical support and related services.

    PRASA is an entity of the Department of Transport. 

    She joined Gibela in 2023 as a process manufacturing engineering intern and worked her way up to becoming a systems engineer in 2024, bringing her dream to fruition.

    “The journey started in high school. I went to a Technical High school where I chose the Mechanical Technology Stream. Then at the university I pursued Mechanical Engineering. I studied at the University of South Africa (UNISA),” she told SAnews, in a recent interview.

    This as SAnews visited the consortium’s train manufacturing facility in Dunnottor, Nigel, in celebration of the Decade of the Artisan with special focus on female artisans.

    According to the Department of Higher Education and Training, the campaign aims to encourage more young people (high school learners and unemployed youth) to see artisanship as a career of choice.

    The visit formed part of the Government Communication and Information System’s (GCIS) celebrations of 30 Years of Democracy.

    Asked about her feelings in working in what is considered a male-dominated industry, she said: “Women are now leading in the industry. The industry caters, protects and accommodates women. Opportunities are endless. Always keep in mind that results matter and that women are more powerful.”

    Her job at Gibela entails engaging with suppliers to develop systems in accordance with Gibela specifications, then work with cross-functional teams to integrate the systems into the product which is the train.
    She also manages the overall systems performance.

    “My role aligns with all five values of our company namely, costumer focus and care, innovation, trust and respect, teamwork, and partnership, finally focus and accountability,” she said.

    As the only female and the youngest in her team, Maposse is not intimidated by being in the male-dominated industry.
    “Age is not a disadvantage, and I will not be young forever. Therefore I am embracing this by being open to learning and appreciating the opportunity given to me. Gender has never been an issue. Not once have I felt different in the work setting thanks to the Gibela culture on gender-equality. 

    “It is important to be confident in your abilities and participate actively in the day-to-day work activities. Moreover, be yourself,” she said.

    She advised young women who are not sure about their career choices to follow their passion.

    “It is important to be confident in your abilities and participate actively on the day-to-day work activities. Be yourself and maintain confidence. 

    “Education is key to success. Never stop learning; seek mentorship. Being in positive circles…networking is important in building long term connections within the industry,” she advised. 

    Asked about her most memorable moments working at Gibela, Maposse said during her induction days, she had the opportunity to witness a train being manufactured from the profile stage up to testing and commissioning.

    “It was during the same period that I had my first train ride experience here on site and it was an amazing and unforgettable experience.”

    To the young engineer, democracy means a lot as it has enabled her to be where she is today.

    “To me democracy means the importance of youth voices in shaping the future of our country [followed by] the right to free education for all. One might ask why? I would say that is the opportunity I had, and it has led me to where I am today.”

    Maposse says she would want to be remembered as a team player that has contributed to the success of Gibela project through innovation and fostering a collaborative environment.

    Gibela has a staff compliment of over 1 200 with women making 43% of the workforce.

    Gibela’s vision is to elevate South Africa’s commuter rail as the transport mode of choice. – SAnews.gov.za

    Edwin

    4624 views

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nyukela Senior Management Programme turns five

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Nyukela Senior Management Programme turns five

    By Busani Ngcaweni

    It has been five successful years since government introduced a compulsory pre-entry programme for persons applying to be appointed as senior managers in the Public service – the Nyukela (Step-Up) senior management service (SMS) Pre-Entry eLearning course. 

    The launch of the Nyukela programme in April 2020, offered by the National School of Government (NSG), was a decisive step towards professionalising the Public Service, and towards pushing the boundaries of performance and leadership. 

    Anyone from within government seeking a promotion, or someone outside the Public Service wishing to join the SMS, must complete the Nyukela programme and pass the necessary assessments before being considered for the post. Nobody will be appointed as a Director, Chief Director, Deputy Director-General (DDG) or Director-General (DG) in the Public Service, without producing a Nyukela certificate. The purpose is to ensure that only those who demonstrate the competencies and mindset needed for optimal performance are entrusted with leadership roles. 

    Since its inception, 20 436 participants have completed the course, equipping them to take on critical leadership responsibilities. This also demonstrates commitment towards professionalising the Public Service. 

    Catering for various levels

    The NSG is now expanding this initiative to make it more inclusive and tailored to various occupational levels. A special pre-entry programme for the executive management level 15 and 16, the DDGs and DGs as well as special advisors to Ministers and other political executives, will be introduced. 

    Currently there has been one Nyukela programme for everyone in the SMS and with this new development, the executive managers will have their own programme. The executive Nyukela programme will incorporate more rigorous evaluations to ensure readiness for the complex demands of executive management leadership. The NSG will also extend the Step-Up approach to local government, state-owned entities and security sector institutions. 

    As we celebrate five successful years of Nyukela, the NSG will continue contributing to the efforts of building a public service staffed by skilled, selfless and honest professionals. 

    Nyukela is part of a suite of compulsory programmes that have been introduced by the NSG, following approval by Cabinet. These include the following; 

    • Compulsory Induction Programme (salary levels 1 – 14);
    • Executive Induction Programme (salary levels 15 – 16);
    • Khaedu training and deployment to service delivery sites (salary levels 13 – 16);
    • Ethics in the Public Service (salary levels 1 – 16);
    • Managing of Performance in the Public Service (salary levels 6 – 12);
    • Supply Chain Management for the Public Service (salary levels 9 – 16);
    • Financial Management Delegations of Authority (salary levels 9 – 16);
    • Re-orientation in the Public Service (salary levels 1 – 16);
    • Basic Project Management for the Public Service (6-12); and
    • Advanced Project Management for the Public Service (6-12) 

    These courses contribute to the implementation of the National Framework towards Professionalisation of the Public Sector, which promotes a stronger emphasis on merit-based recruitment and appointments, as well as lifelong learning for public servants.

    To enrol and complete the Nyukela programme, please register for the self-paced course on the NSG’s website at: https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entry-programme 

    *Prof Busani Ngcaweni is the Principal of the National School of Government 

    Janine

    4849 views

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi, Sassou send congratulatory letters to FOCAC ministerial meeting of coordinators

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Xi, Sassou send congratulatory letters to FOCAC ministerial meeting of coordinators

    BEIJING, June 11 — Chinese President Xi Jinping and President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso sent congratulatory letters separately to the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Changsha, capital of central China’s Hunan Province, on Wednesday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eulogy by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Special Provincial Funeral of Rev Dr Tshenuwani Farisani, University of Venda Stadium, Thohoyandou

    Source: President of South Africa –

    Programme Directors,
    The Farisani Family,
    Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba,
    Representatives of the African National Congress and the broader liberation movement,
    Leadership of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa,
    Traditional and religious leaders present,
    Leadership of the University of Venda,
    Fellow Mourners,
     
    Fellow South Africans, batho ba Limpopo, muta waDean Farisani,
     
    We are to bid farewell to Dean Tshenuwani Farisani.
     
    His life bears witness to the mission of Christ espoused in the Gospel of Luke chapter 4.
     
    “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has chosen me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind; to set free the oppressed.”
     
    We have lost an extraordinary man who led an extraordinary life.
     
    He was born in 1948, a year that was a turning point in South Africa’s history. 
     
    This was the year the National Party swept to power and ushered in the reviled system of apartheid.
     
    Dean Farisani was born into circumstances that mirrored the lives of millions of black South Africans at the time.
     
    He was just a child, barely three years old, when his family was confronted with the ugly face of injustice.
     
    Many years later, in 1996, he would testify at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on how his family were victims of forced removed from the Songozi Tsapila area near then Louis Trichardt, now Makhado.
     
    The authorities arrived one day without warning, and his parents were ordered to vacate the area immediately.
     
    He recounted how they had to carry their belongings on their backs and leave, on foot. That which could not be carried, including all the family’s livestock, was left behind.
     
    They were relocated to another empty piece of land and told this was their new home. They were never compensated for the land that was stolen from them.
     
    Eight years later, in 1959, the family were forcibly removed again. 
     
    Two years later, in 1961, again.
     
    These experiences instilled in him a deep sense of justice. 
     
    They planted the seeds of his political consciousness when he was still in his teens.
     
    He only entered formal schooling at the age of 12. Like most children in rural areas at the time, he was a child labourer on the white farms.
     
    At school a missionary from the Evangelical Lutheran Church noticed his academic brilliance and he was prepared to enter theological training.
     
    It was at Maphumulo Theological Seminary in KwaZulu-Natal that he first became acquainted with the Black Consciousness Movement.
     
    Its teachings fired his growing political awareness.
     
    For him, there was no contradiction between the teachings of his faith and the mission of national liberation.
     
    He soon became attracted to liberation theology, and its message that true Christian faith demands active resistance to all forms of oppression and solidarity with the poor.
     
    Apartheid was a great injustice, and he, heroic heart, was not content to choose a quiet life of pastoralism.
     
    He was eventually expelled from the seminary after hebecame involved with underground political organisations like the South African Students Organisation, the Black People’s Convention and the Black Consciousness Movement.
     
    By then he was at the Beuster Mission at Maungani outside Thohoyandou and a rising figure in the BCM, going on to be elected its president in 1973.
     
    I first met Dean Farisani when he spoke at my high school, Mpaphuli.
     
    We formed an immediate and lasting bond.
     
    For many years we worked alongside each other in the Black Evangelical Youth Organisation.
     
    There were many points in the life of the great man we lay to rest today where he found himself sorely tested.
     
    During the late 1970s and 1980s was arrested on a number of occasions for his political activities. But it was his third detention, in 1981, that he found his courage truly tested. His faith tested. His principles tested.
     
    He was detained by the Venda police on suspicion of being involved in the bombing of a police station in Sibasa. 
     
    He was held for more than eight months and severely tortured. 
     
    In his book, Diary from a South African Prison, he recounts the unimaginable ordeal of beatings, electricshocks, being forced to squat for days and being smothered.
     
    In an interview given years later he recounts how his torturers tried everything to force a confession, even offering him the position of Bishop of Venda.
     
    And yet he, strong in will, did not yield.
     
    Fellow Mourners, Comrades, 
    Fellow South Africans,
     
    Dean Farisani was a courageous revolutionary who inspired a generation to reclaim their pride and stand up for their rights. I was amongst them.
     
    He was a beloved father and a grandfather who will be sorely missed by his wife, mufumakadzi Mudzunga, his daughters Nzumbululo and Ndamulelo, by his son Zwovhonala and by the entire extended family.
     
    He was a renowned academic and prolific scholar whose writings gave voice to the voiceless. 
     
    He was a guide and mentor to many. He was a dear friend.
     
    And yet it is Dean Farisani’s most salient quality that I will most remember him for: he was a man of unwavering principle.
     
    Nothing could sway him from what was right, from his dedication to the cause of the South African people, and to their total emancipation.
     
    In detention, he was offered positions and status. He refused them.
     
    When he was released and went into exile in the United States, he could have easily put the entire experience behind him and led a quiet life. 
     
    Instead he campaigned vigorously against the regime from abroad.
     
    When Venda was proclaimed as a so-called independent homeland by the apartheid regime he was outspoken in his opposition, even when this brought him into conflict with church leaders in his circuit.
     
    His activism continued into the democratic South Africa.
     
    He was determined to be part of the struggle to overcome the injustice and inequality bred of apartheid.
     
    He was elected to the first democratic Parliament in 1994. 
     
    He would go on to serve further as an MEC here in Limpopo and as speaker of the Legislature.
     
    These roles placed him in a position of power and influence. Yet they did not change him. 
     
    He did not succumb to the allure of high office. He was never arrogant. 
     
    He was a servant leader who came, served and left, and continued to contribute to the betterment of his beloved country.
     
    He did not regard loyalty to a political cause or party as being above his own principles.
     
    When he saw corruption being perpetrated by those entrusted with public funds, he was vocal and scathing in his criticism. He held power to account.
     
    The Foundation that bears his name continues to be an influential voice in the public space in advancing social justice, including for apartheid’s many victims.
     
    Fellow Mourners,
     
    Neither beatings nor torture could make Dean Farisani surrender his principles. The trappings of power did not interest him. He was content to walk in the footsteps of his Lord with the downtrodden, the oppressed and the marginalised.
     
    He understood his life’s mission and it was not negotiable.
     
    These are the greatest lessons we take from his life. These are the reflections we take today as we lay this great son of the soil to rest.
     
    To the family, we share in your great sorrow. Yet even amidst our mourning we celebrate a man who has left such a deep and lasting impact on all of us. He was an inspiration. 
     
    In Dean Farisani’s book of poetry, titled Justice in my Tears, there is a moving poem.
     
    It is called “The Lord is my Shepherd: Psalm 23 in Pietermaritzburg and Howick.”
     
    It was published in 1977, the period of his first imprisonment.
     
    In it he writes:
     
    “The Lord is my shepherd, 
    I shall not buckle
    He rests me in the land of freedom
    I drink from the cup of liberty,
    Even when I wander in the valley of torture.
    I shall fear no human beasts,
     
    He shall fight my fight.
    His angels and his visions
    Guide me through brutal interrogations
    He gives me life in the hands of murderers
    Giving me a crown for a victory his own”
     
    Dean Farisani, yours was a life of service to others. As the South African people we crown you as you go to your eternal rest.
     
    In the words of the Psalm 23 you so loved, surely goodness and mercy did follow you all the days of your life. May you dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
     
    Fare well brother, comrade, friend, patriot.
     
    I thank you.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Ramaphosa to visit Presidential youth flagship programmes

    Source: President of South Africa –

    President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Tuesday 10 June 2025, engage with youth beneficiaries of the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI) and Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES) flagship programmes in Pretoria.

    The President will visit three sites: the Sefako Makgatho Primary School in Saulsville; the South African Creative Industries Incubator (SACCI) in Eersterust, and the Foundation for Professional Development (FPD) in Pretoria East.

    These visits will highlight innovative implementation models and public-private partnerships that are delivering dignified, high-quality employment and skilling outcomes for youth at scale.

    The President will during the visits interact directly with youth beneficiaries, educators, and implementing partners, and see first-hand how the PES and PYEI’s community-based, demand-led approach is reshaping labour market access for the country’s most excluded youth.

    The site visits will commence with the Sefako Makgatho Primary School, a part of the Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI) and a flagship programme of the PES, designed to address the dual challenges of youth unemployment and support, for the basic education system by placing young people in roles within public schools as education and general school assistant.

    The programme is implemented by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and administrated by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).

    The President will then proceed to the South African Creative Industries Incubator (SACII) which is a creative hub providing technical skills training, business incubation, production facilities and networking for artists and entrepreneurs in the creative industries.

    The organisation is funded by National Pathway Management Network, a grant initiative of the PYEI, led by the National Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) and administered by the IDC.

    The funding assists with improving and expanding the Visual Special Effects (VFX) programme, which is one of its kind in South Africa, specifically designed to train youth in the highly technical field of VFX.

    The programme connects young people to industry jobs in the creative gig economy. One hundred trainees have been enrolled into the programme through the Innovation Fund.

    The President will conclude his visit at the Foundation for Professional Development (FPD) which provides health sector professionals and unemployed youth interested in the health field access to affordable, accessible quality education through management and clinical skills development courses.

    These courses are customised to the needs of healthcare managers, practitioners and organisations.

    The programme is funded through the Jobs Boost Outcomes Fund, an outcome-based instrument to unlock jobs for excluded young people by linking contracted payments with desired outcomes.

    This intervention of the PYEI that is led by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) with the National Skills Fund (NSF) as the lead implementer.

    The media programme will unfold as follows:
    Date: Tuesday, 10 June 2025
    Time: 10h00 (Media arrival at 09h00)
    Venue: Sefako Makgatho Primary School, 2 Sakweng street, Saulsville, Pretoria

    Members of the media wishing to attend are requested to send their details to Ndivhuwo Kharivhe on Ndivhuwo@presidency.gov.za  by no later than 13h00 today Monday, 09 June 2025.

    NOTE TO MEDIA/EDITORS:
    The visit to the school will be open to all media to cover the engagement between President and Teacher Assistants.  However, due to space limitations, the other two sites will only be restricted to the Government Communications and Information System (GCIS), which will disseminate the materials to all media post the visits.

    Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

    Issued by: The Presidency
    Pretoria
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President mourns passing of Justice Sangoni, former Judge President of the Eastern Cape

    Source: President of South Africa –

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted with sadness the passing of former Judge President of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Justice Clement Temba Sangoni.

    Judge Sangoni retired in 2017 and passed away earlier today, Tuesday, 10 June 2025, after a short illness.

    President Ramaphosa offers his condolences to the extended family of the late Judge Sangoni Aah! Dilizintaba, who was a senior traditional leader of the Qokolweni-Zimbane Traditional Council at Mthatha.

    President Ramaphosa said: “The passing of Justice Sangoni is a devastating loss to his family and immediate community and it is a profound loss to our judiciary and our legal heritage.

    “Judge Sangoni lived for justice and the improvement of the material conditions of communities in the Eastern Cape and elsewhere through constitutionally sound, progressive jurisprudence.

    “Under his leadership, the Judiciary in the Eastern Cape also applied its mind collectively and individually to matters pertaining to the development of this economically vital province.

    “Judge Sangoni served the people of the Eastern Cape from the Bench and through his deep involvement in community life in his role as a traditional leader – a role which enriched his adjudication of a broad range of matters placed before the courts.

    “We will continue to appreciate his contribution to the rule of law and the wisdom of law in our country and to the communities in which he lived and served with distinction.

    “May his soul rest in peace.”

    Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

    Issued by: The Presidency
    Pretoria
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the National Dialogue

    Source: President of South Africa –

    My Fellow South Africans, 

    Today, I wish to address you about the National Dialogue, an initiative that has been in discussion by a number of leaders in our country and many other people for some time now. 

    This initiative has been gathering great support and enthusiasm since it was proposed last year. It has been endorsed by a wide range of formations across society. 

    Over the last few months, we have been engaged in discussions with various entities on the purpose and the form of the National Dialogue. 

    In the wake of these consultations, there is broad agreement that given the challenges our country is facing at the moment, we should convene the National Dialogue. 

    The idea of holding a dialogue is not a new concept in our country. In many ways having dialogues is part of our DNA as a nation. 

    At every important moment in the history of our country, we have come together as a nation to confront our challenges and forge a path into the future in dialogue with one another. 

    Through dialogue we were able to deal with the challenges that the apartheid system caused in our country and achieved peace and overcame violence. 

    We established a democracy and ended apartheid. 

    Following the negotiations process, we used dialogue to start building a united nation where once there had only been conflict and division. 

    We achieved all this because we came together in dialogue to discuss our difficulties, our concerns, our hopes and our aspirations as a people. 

    For more than 30 years, we have worked together to realise the promise of our democratic Constitution. 

    We have made great strides as a nation, expanding freedom, deepening democracy and building a better life for millions. 

    Yet we face persistent challenges. 

    Poverty, unemployment and inequality are deep wounds that prevent us from reaching our full potential as a nation and as a country. 

    Millions of people are under-employed and unemployed. Many of those who work earn wages that cannot sustain them or their families. 

    Crime, gender-based violence and corruption are prevalent across our society. 

    We are therefore called upon at this moment to direct all our efforts to build a thriving, inclusive economy that creates jobs and opportunities. 

    We are called upon to build safer communities and to create a better future for our children. 

    We are also called upon to give all sectors of our society – men and women, young and old, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI community, and urban and rural people – a voice to determine how we address the problems of today and build the South Africa we want for future generations. 

    That is why we have agreed to convene an inclusive National Dialogue. 

    The dialogue will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of our country in order for us to reimagine our future. 

    The National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy. 

    Through the National Dialogue, we seek a shared vision of what it means to be a South African and develop a new national ethos and common value system. 

    It is an opportunity to forge a new social compact for the development of our country, a compact that will unite all South Africans, with clear responsibilities for different stakeholders, government, business, labour, civil society, men and women, communities and citizens. 

    It is anticipated that the National Dialogue will drive progress towards our Vision 2030 and lay the foundation for the next phase of South Africa’s National Development Plan. 

    The National Dialogue itself is not an event.

    Rather, it will be a participatory process that unfolds in phases, from local consultations and sectoral engagements to provincial and national gatherings. 

    In my capacity as the Head of State, I will be calling a National Convention on Friday, the 15th of August 2025. 

    This National Convention will represent the diversity of the South African nation. The first National Convention will set the agenda for the National Dialogue. 

    It will be a representative gathering, bringing together government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural workers, sports organisations, women, youth and community voices, among others. 

    Through their various political, social and other formations, in their workplaces, in places of worship, communities, villages and sites of learning, South Africans will in the months following the National Convention be encouraged to be in dialogue to define our nation’s path into the future. 

    The views, concerns and proposals that will emerge from this conversation will be brought together at a second National Convention, that is planned to be held in the beginning of next year. 

    This second National Convention will reinforce our shared values and adopt a common vision and programme of action for our country into the future. 

    We expect that the National Convention will finalise a compact that outlines the roles and responsibilities of all South Africans. 

    To guide and champion the National Dialogue, I am appointing an Eminent Persons Group. 

    These are leading figures in our society, reflecting the great diversity of our nation, with a proven commitment to the advancement of social cohesion and nation-building. 

    The members of the Eminent Persons Group are: 
    • Dr Brigalia Bam, former Independent Electoral Commission Chairperson, 
    • Mr Robbie Brozin, entrepreneur and business person, 
    • Judge Edwin Cameron, former Constitutional Court judge, 
    • Mr Manne Dipico, former Northern Cape Premier, 
    • Dr Desiree Ellis, Banyana Banyana coach and football legend, 
    • Ms Ela Gandhi, peace activist and stalwart, 
    • Prof Nomboniso Gasa, researcher and rural activist, 
    • Mr Bobby Godsell, business leader, 
    • Dr John Kani, award-winning actor, 
    • Mr Siya Kolisi, Springbok captain and world champion, 
    • Ms Mia le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024, 
    • His Grace Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane, leader of the Zion Christian Church, 
    • His Grace Bishop Engenas Lekganyane, leader of the St Engenas Zion Christian Church, 
    • The Most Reverend Thabo Makgoba, Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, 
    • Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Chairperson of the National Planning Commission, 
    • Dr Barbara Masekela, poet, educator and stalwart, 
    • Ms Lindiwe Mazibuko, former Member of Parliament, 
    • Mr Roelf Meyer, former Minister and constitutional negotiator, 
    • Ms Gcina Mhlope, storyteller, writer and actor, 
    • Ms Nompendulo Mkhatshwa, student activist and former Member of Parliament, 
    • Ms Kgothatso Montjane, Grand Slam tennis champion, 
    • Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu, former activist and educationist, 
    • Mr Bheki Ntshalintshali, unionist and former COSATU General Secretary, 
    • Hosi Phylia Nwamitwa, traditional leader, 
    • Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo, chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, 
    • Dr Gloria Serobe, business leader, 
    • Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the Gift of the Givers, 
    • Prof Derrick Swartz, academic, 
    • Ms Lorato Trok, author and early literacy expert, 
    • Mr Sibusiso Vilane, mountaineer and adventurer, 
    • Mr Siyabulela Xuza, award-winning rocket scientist. 

    UBaba uShembe uNyazi LweZulu has also been invited to join the Eminent Persons Group, but, as he is travelling, has not yet been able to confirm his availability. 

    I am grateful to each of these South African patriots who have made themselves available to act as the guarantors of an inclusive, constructive and credible process. 

    An Inter-Ministerial Committee has been established under the chairpersonship of the Deputy President to coordinate government’s contribution to the National Dialogue. 

    We will be establishing a Steering Committee, comprised of representatives of various sectors of society, to set strategic priorities and coordinate implementation of the National Dialogue process. 

    The Secretariat, which is responsible for day-to-day management of National Dialogue activities, will be housed at NEDLAC, the National Economic Development and Labour Council. 

    As a nation, we are embarking on a new path of partnership and united action. 

    We are drawing on our traditions of dialogue and debate. We are determined to define a shared vision of a nation which belongs to all South Africans united in their diversity. 

    I thank you. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Office of the Deputy President provides clarity regarding Deputy President Mashatile’s international programme travel expenses

    Source: President of South Africa –

    The Office of the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa wishes to provide clarity regarding Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s international travel expenses which has recently gained much attention in the media, with reports and commentary coming from News24, City Press, Sunday Times/Timeslive, SowetanLIVE, Independent Media/IOL, The Citizen, BusinessLive, ENCA and others. Categorically, the office and the Deputy President have not, as seems to be suggested, misused State funds or been extravagant in financing the costs of the Deputy President’s international travel.

    This unprecedented matter which involves the international work of the Deputy President’s travel costs, was first raised by Action SA, a political party represented in Parliament, in a written question to the Deputy President.  In light of such an expected phenomena, the Deputy President replied to the question in full and also provided specific details which include; correct figures and breakdown of individual costs by members of the delegation supporting the Deputy President. 

    The Office of the Deputy President wishes to reiterate that Deputy President Mashatile undertakes all international working visits, not in his personal capacity but on behalf of the South African Government as delegated by President Cyril Ramaphosa.  Moreover, the majority of these strategic international visits are aimed at strengthening existing bilateral, political, economic and diplomatic relations between South Africa and visited countries. 

    As part of South Africa’s global investment drive, and commitment to contribute to global peace and stability, South Africa, through the President and Deputy President as well as Ministers, have a role to play in advancing the global agenda, an aspect of which includes engagements with counterparts in other countries. For instance, the Deputy President co-chairs the SA-China BNC with Vice President Han Zheng and many other delegated countries including, but not limited to Vietnam and South Sudan.

    In summary, in the comprehensive answer to the Parliamentary Question by Action SA, it was stated that since Deputy President Mashatile assumed office on 3 July 2024, he has undertaken the following International official visits:

    • Ireland and United Kingdom Working Visits 26 September – 4 October 2024: Ireland 26 – 29 September 2024 and United Kingdom Working 30 September – 4 October 2024
    • Standing for President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Republic of South Africa at the Inauguration of the President of Botswana, H.E Duma Boko on 8 November 2024
    • Standing for President Ramaphosa and South Africa at the Extraordinary SADC Summit held on 20 November 2024 in Harare, Zimbabwe
    • Japan Working Visit 16 – 19 March 2025
    • France Working Visit 19 – 24 May 2025

    The Working Visit to Japan in particular, being the one raised by most media, was of strategic importance to South Africa, as it focussed on strengthening political, economic and social areas of cooperation between the two countries. The Working Visit came at the back of the two nations celebrating 115 years of strong diplomatic relations. The Deputy President was accompanied by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Thandi Moraka; the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie; the Minister of Higher Education, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane; the Minister of Agriculture, Mr John Steenhuisen; the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau, and the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms Nomalungelo Gina.

    In addition, the Japan Working Visit achieved several key objectives including representing the first high-level engagement between South Africa and Japan in the last 10 years; signalling an acknowledgement and appreciation for the long-standing relationship between the two countries based on a wide area of cooperation not limited to trade and investment. This visit was beneficial in terms of South Africa’s African Agenda, the current confluence of South Africa’s G20 Chairship and Japan’s hosting of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in August, presenting a unique opportunity for South Africa to communicate its own and the continent’s position and priorities to Japan and the expected support and role that Japan could to play in this regard.

    Finally, in our response to Parliament, the office has provided a breakdown of the cost to Government of all individual members of the delegation supporting the Deputy President. Regrettably, some of the figures presented by the media are significantly blown out of proportion and do not accurately reflect the cost of the trips. For example, one media liaison officer, referred to by Timeslive as the “most expensive supporting official”, is said to have cost R580, 582 for Japan alone, when in fact the total cost for that official is less than R66 000 including flights and accommodation. 

    While the cost of international travel is generally very high, these figures must always be seen in the context of their original currency in relation to the Rand Dollar exchange, as well as the going rate of such travel expenses, including ground transport, accommodation and flights. 

    In terms of the travel policy in the Presidential Handbook, transport for the President and Deputy President during travel outside South Africa is the responsibility and for the account of the State. Accommodation and incidental expenses of the President and Deputy President whilst on all official journeys abroad is arranged through, and paid for, by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. The logistics and choice of accommodation is not the responsibility or competency of the Office of the Deputy President or Presidency. In fact, DIRCO plays an integral role in reviewing, advising and endorsing Government Delegation compositions, ensuring that participation aligns with formal policy guidelines that emphasise relevance, necessity, and cost-effectiveness. These guidelines reflect government directives aimed at optimising resource allocation while maintaining operational effectiveness during international engagements.

    Regarding the financial aspects of the visits, responsibility for travel, accommodation, and other miscellaneous expenses is generally shared among DIRCO and other participating departments, depending on the officials’ affiliations and roles. Prior to the visit, DIRCO oversees the processing of budget submissions or cost estimates to ensure compliance with approved spending frameworks. This includes strict adherence to National Treasury guidelines on international travel, the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and other precepts governing public expenditure.

    In all these visits, the Office of the Deputy President has insisted on the most cost-effective provisions for the Deputy President and his delegations, and has therefore not misused nor extravagantly used State funds as alluded.

    Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 065 195 8840

    Issued by: The Presidency
    Pretoria
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Muscat will host sixth round of Iran-U.S. talks

    2025-06-10 – Senior officials of Iran and the U.S. will hold the sixth round of talks in Muscat on Sunday.

    Muscat is scheduled to host the sixth round of indirect negotiations between Tehran and Washington on Sunday.

    Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said on Tuesday that the Islamic Republic and the United States will hold the newest round of talks in Muscat next Sunday, with Oman as the mediator.

    Regarding the latest program of Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, he said that the top diplomat will pay a visit to Norway to take part in the 22nd edition of the Oslo Forum.

    The Oslo Forum annually hosts global leaders, mediators, conflict parties, and experts to assess crises, support dialogue, and create pathways to peace.

    Iran and the United States have held five rounds of talks mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi, three in Muscat and two in Rome.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Opening Speech of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs  at the High-Level Global Conference on Youth-Inclusive Peace Processes

    Source: Government of Iran

    Your Excellency Mr. António Guterres,

    Your Excellency, Mr. Pekka Haavisto,

    Your Excellency, Mrs. María Juliana Ruiz Sandoval Ms. Ana Maneno, Mr. Mohammad Yahya Qanie,

    Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;

    I am delighted to open this High-level Global Conference on Youth-Inclusive Peace Processes, co-hosted by the State of Qatar, Colombia, Finland, and the United Nations, and co-organized by the office of the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth, Education Above All Foundation, and Search For Common Ground, in partnership with the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPP), the UN Population Fund, the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Network of Young Peacebuilders.

    I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the ground-breaking vision of Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser – UN SDG advocate, and Founder and Chairperson of Education Above All (EAA) Foundation.

    Her Highness has worked tirelessly to promote the empowerment of youth in conflict-prevention and peace-building. I would also like to acknowledge the instrumental role of Education Above All in this regard.

    The State of Qatar encourages the participation of young people in all stages of peace processes, including in decision-making. With this in mind, the Department of Youth Affairs of the Ministry of Culture and Sports has been directed to draft Qatar’s first National Youth Strategy.

    Drafted in consultation with our youth, the strategy is a declaration of a common national vision that defines the needs and priorities of Qatar’s youth.

    It is worthy of note that the first international Symposium on youth participation, held in Helsinki in March 2019, resulted in the launch of the first global policy paper on youth participation in peace processes.

    I trust this conference will follow this path in arriving at shared political commitments to advance the global Youth, Peace, and Security Agenda, and deliver concrete solutions for sustainable youth-inclusive processes world-wide.

    I am pleased that this conference will launch international guidelines to advance the global Youth, Peace and Security Agenda, and a five year-strategy on strengthening youth-inclusive peace processes, to be implemented at the national level.

    To conclude, the State of Qatar is committed to continue working closely with the United Nations to effectively implement the main outcomes of this conference as part of our joint efforts to strengthen global youth-inclusive peace processes.

    I thank you all for joining us, and look forward to our impactful deliberations here today.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Closing statement of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs at the High-Level Global Conference on Youth-Inclusive Peace Processes

    Source: Government of Iran

    Honourable Ministers, Excellencies, Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen:

    It has been an honour and a pleasure to host this High-level Global Conference on Youth-Inclusive Processes.

    I would like to thank the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Antonio Guterres for his leadership and commitment to advancing this agenda.

    Over the course of this conference, you have generated a number of actionable policy recommendations and key outputs to ensure youth-inclusive peace processes.

    I particularly welcome the launch of the guidelines in support of country-level operationalization of the youth, peace, and security agenda and the five-year strategy on strengthening youth-inclusive peace processes building on recommendations from the global policy paper “WE ARE HERE: An Integrated Approach to Youth-Inclusive Peace Processes”.

    I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Member States, young people, civil society organizations, United Nations entities, and regional organizations to implement the Youth, Peace, and Security agenda, that fed into the development of “Implementing the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda at Country-level: A Guide for Public Officials”.

    Furthermore, discussions over the past two days have highlighted the centrality of young people as critical and necessary partners in conflict transformation and peacebuilding and the need for their strengthened participation and representation, especially of young women, in the design and implementation of peace processes.

    Discussions also emphasized that the implementation of the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda, as enshrined in UN Security Council Resolution 2535, requires Member States to continue developing dedicated local, national and regional roadmaps, with sufficient resources, through participatory processes, in particular with young people and youth organizations, including monitoring, evaluation, and coordination.

    Therefore, we encourage Member States to support the implementation of the two key outputs to advance the country-level operationalization of the Youth, Peace, and Security agenda and to strengthen youth participation in peace processes at all levels of decision-making, based on specific contexts.

    Finally, I would like to emphasize that the State of Qatar is deeply committed to implement the objectives and key outputs of this High-level Global Conference. Furthermore, in prioritizing the critical role of young men and women in building peace, the State of Qatar is collaborating with the United Nations on several initiatives to advance further the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda, while working towards a reinvigorated inclusive multilateralism.

    The State of Qatar will not leave young men and women behind. We are ourselves a young country, comprised of a young population characterized by its passion and vision for a sustainable and peaceful future.

    You can count on the State of Qatar as your partner and supporter. Together, we can move the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda forward.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Josh Hazlewood returns for WTC final against South Africa

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Marnus Labuschagne will open the batting for Australia and Josh Hazlewood has been selected in the bowling line-up for the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s, captain Pat Cummins said on the eve of the game on Tuesday.

    Labuschagne has been moved up the order to accommodate the return of Cameron Green, who underwent back surgery in October and was ruled out of the home season, while Hazlewood is fit again after a calf injury to replace of Scott Boland.

    “Cam Green has been coming back in great form in the last few weeks and we thought he deserved a spot in the batting lineup. We thought three probably suits him best,” Cummins told a press conference.

    “For Marnus moving one spot up, it’s not too different to batting at three. He’s done well here in England in the past.”

    Leaving out Boland, who had been one of the heroes of Australia’s 3-1 test series win over India this year, had been a difficult decision.

    “There are some guys where you genuinely say, you’ve done nothing wrong, don’t change a thing and that’s Scotty. He is just really unfortunate to miss out.

    “The message to Scotty is there’s a lot of test cricket coming up in the next couple of years and just because your mid-30s doesn’t mean that’s the end of your career.

    “By having a squad of fast bowlers, hopefully we can extend all our care for an extra couple of years.”

    An element of selection criteria was to reward those who had contributed to defending champions Australia winning 13 of 19 tests in the two-year WTC cycle and reaching yet another final.

    “I think our selectors have probably shown you that they’re happy and they’d rather give someone an extra little run than pull the pin too early. I think it’s partly rewarding those guys that got us here.”

    Cummings said defending the title was high on the Australian priority list, even after all their success in the limited-overs formats.

    “It’s a trophy we’ve spoken a lot about over the last couple of years. “Test cricket is my favourite format. You’ve got to basically win in all different conditions to make it into this final. If we can retain that mace, that’s a pretty awesome thing for this team.”

    Australia team: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Opening Speech By His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs At The Seventh Edition of the Global Security Forum

    Source: Government of Iran

    In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

    May peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you,,,

     

    I welcome you all to Doha on the occasion of the seventh edition of the Global Security Forum, under the theme “The Impact of Non-State Actors on Global Security”.

    At this time, this forum holds exceptional significance, as it brings us together at a moment when the world—more than ever—requires profound and sincere dialogue, as well as innovative partnerships capable of addressing the challenges of our turbulent world.

    Distinguished Attendees, 

    Our international system is currently undergoing profound transformations that compel us to reassess our concepts of security and stability.

    Conflicts are no longer transient events that can be contained; rather, they have evolved into prolonged phenomena that interconnect and overlap, imposing on the world complex crises that feed into one another—from Ukraine to Gaza, passing through the multiple crises in our region.

    At the core of this intricate scene, we observe the persistence and expansion of conflicts both temporally and geographically, with no clear prospects for resolution. This is due to the absence of collective political will and the prioritization of narrow interests over the requirements of just and comprehensive peace.

    At the core of this intricate scene, we observe the persistence and expansion of conflicts both temporally and geographically, with no clear prospects for resolution. This is due to the absence of collective political will and the prioritization of narrow interests over the requirements of just and comprehensive peace.

    This persistence leaves behind entire generations growing up under the shadow of violence, despair, and loss of hope, which is perhaps the most perilous consequence of these conflicts.

    Children of Gaza, Syria, Sudan, and Ukraine are not merely statistics in the reports of international organizations; rather, they represent the future of our societies and serve as a reflection of our success or failure in creating a world that is safer and more humane.

    And even if wars were to cease tomorrow, we would find ourselves facing the immense challenge of reconstruction—not only to repair the physical destruction but also to rebuild communities on social and psychological levels.

    Amid the multiplicity of crises and the decline in international funding, issues such as the reconstruction of Syria or Gaza appear to have become deferred aspirations on the agenda of the international community.

    Therefore, our vision for the solution is not limited to ceasefires and ending wars alone; it extends to establishing solid foundations for comprehensive and sustainable recovery, through collective responsibility and genuine international commitment.

    Ladies and Gentlemen, 

    Amidst these intertwined challenges, the role of humanitarian organizations, civil society institutions, media entities, and local initiatives has emerged as a pivotal element in the equation of security and peace.

    These entities have become the first line of defense in responding to crises, often overcoming bureaucratic and political constraints that hinder official bodies.

     However, on the other hand, we face non-state actors who exploit security vacuums and thrive on chaos and suffering, ranging from terrorist groups to organized crime networks.

    The rogue actions of certain states, which are met with only a small amount of wisdom and a great deal of weakness and complacency from some governments, serve as a pretext for infiltrating the hearts and minds of people and hijacking the role of the sole defender of their rights.

    Amidst this crisis-ridden landscape, the truth is obscured, and blame is scattered: Is the root cause the rogue states themselves, the weak governments failing to fulfill their duties, or the absence of wisdom, which has become a rare commodity in an era where standards are blurred and balances disrupted?

    Herein lies the importance of this year’s forum theme— the lines between construction and destruction, between those who seek peace and those who invest in war, must be drawn clearly and precisely.

    Addressing these challenges requires a smart approach; one that supports and empowers positive forces while containing and drying up the sources of terrorist and criminal organizations that exploit the suffering of peoples to advance their own agendas.

    This can only be achieved through more inclusive global governance and strategic partnerships between governments and civil society.

    Distinguished Attendees,

    What has been happening in the Gaza Strip for more than a year and a half offers painful lessons about this dynamic.

    Amid unprecedented destruction and a humanitarian disaster that has crossed all red lines, humanitarian organizations and local initiatives play a crucial role in keeping the lifeline flowing, in conveying the suffering of civilians to the world, and even in contributing to mediation and negotiation efforts.

    What is most painful, and a stain on the conscience of the entire world, is that food and medicine have become weapons in this war. The death of children from hunger and cold is exploited as a tool to achieve narrow political objectives, while an entire population is besieged and denied the most basic rights to receive aid, without any accountability.

    The State of Qatar will continue, in partnership with the Arab Republic of Egypt, the United States of America, and regional partners, its diligent efforts to achieve a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza and to ensure the unobstructed flow of humanitarian aid.

    We firmly believe that supporting the Palestinian people is not a matter of political negotiation, but a moral and humanitarian duty rooted in our commitment to justice.

     

     

    Ladies and Gentlemen,
    Despite the bleakness of the overall situation, positive indicators emerge that must be upheld and strengthened.

    • In Syria, we observe a nation undergoing reconstruction, with its people striving to shape a new vision for their country, while recognizing the sensitivity of the current phase and the necessity for a comprehensive national discourse.
    • In Lebanon, the election of a President of the Republic and the formation of the government represent an opportunity to revitalize institutions and strengthen confidence in the state and its future, provided that this is accompanied by substantial reforms and genuine engagement of civil society.

    We also observe encouraging positive signs, as recently witnessed here in Doha, through hosting peace talks between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda, which resulted in reaching preliminary understandings on a ceasefire, de-escalation, and confidence-building measures.

    These models demonstrate how formal processes, when combined with community initiatives, can help create a supportive environment for national reconciliation and regional stability.

    The diverse experiences we witness affirm a fundamental truth: sustainable security cannot be achieved solely through top-down decisions, but rather by building cohesive communities capable of resilience, through expanding partnerships and activating the role of all societal components in shaping the future.

    Distinguished Attendees,

    The State of Qatar has always been committed to the principle of dialogue as a fundamental means of resolving conflicts and building peace.

    We believe that constructive engagement with humanitarian organizations, civil society, the private sector, and academic circles constitutes an integral part of any serious effort to achieve sustainable stability.

    Based on our extensive experience in mediation and conflict resolution, we have realized that achieving genuine peace requires establishing channels of dialogue with all influential parties, respecting the specificities of each community, acknowledging historical grievances, and addressing them with a spirit of justice and reconciliation.

    Despite all the challenges we face, I firmly believe that hope remains our choice.

    The ability to bring about positive change is still within our reach, if there is genuine will, if we can rise above narrow interests, and if we place the human being—his dignity, rights, and aspirations—at the heart of every policy and initiative.

    In the State of Qatar, we are committed to continuing our role as an active partner in efforts toward peace and development. This includes supporting political solutions to conflicts, humanitarian actions, and building safety nets that protect communities from extremism and violence.

    We look forward to this forum serving as a platform for innovative ideas and practical solutions, and as a step towards closer partnerships between governments and communities, for a world that is safer, more just, and more respectful for human dignity.

    I wish you fruitful discussions and thank you for listening

     

    May peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you,,,

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Opening Remarks by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, at the Qatar Economic Forum

    Source: Government of Iran

    In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

    Your Highness the Amir  – may God protect him,

    Your Excellencies,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Distinguished Guests,

    May the peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.

    It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to Doha, the capital of the State of Qatar. Doha has grown into a prominent center for international dialogue and active diplomacy, and a global platform where leaders, policymakers, and thinkers come together to exchange ideas and promote cooperation.

    This year’s Qatar Economic Forum takes place amidst major political and economic transformations, underscoring the urgent need for dialogue platforms that bring together decision-makers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and thought leaders to chart future investment opportunities and formulate a collective stance on the challenges we face, most notably international stability and sustainable growth.

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    The humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza remains, despite the tireless efforts of the State of Qatar—working in close coordination with our partners in the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America—to bring this tragic war to an end, yet unfortunately we continue to witness repeated setbacks to achieving a ceasefire.

    When the Israeli-American soldier, Idan Alexander, was released, we hoped it would mark a turning point—an opportunity to halt the violence and begin the path toward peace. Instead, that moment was met with an intensified campaign of bombardment, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of innocent civilians.

    This aggressive and irresponsible behavior continues to undermine every opportunity for peace. Nevertheless, we remain firmly committed to pursuing our diplomatic efforts, alongside our partners, until this war is brought to an end—until all hostages and detainees are released, and the suffering of our brothers and sisters in Gaza is alleviated, and the region is no longer held hostage by constant and imminent threats.

    Regarding Syria, the recent decision to lift U.S. sanctions on this brotherly nation marks a significant step in the right direction. We hope to see similar measures to follow. This sends a clear and vital message to the region and the world: that our collective priority must be to offer people emerging from conflict a genuine opportunity to rebuild their lives and shape a better future.

    Distinguished Guests,

    Political stability and economic prosperity are deeply interconnected—neither can be achieved in isolation from the other.

    From this standpoint, the State of Qatar pursues an active and principled diplomatic approach, grounded in impartial mediation and constructive engagement to help resolve conflicts peacefully, recognizing that lasting peace is the foundation for any sustainable development.

    We regard every diplomatic effort we undertake as an investment in a more secure and prosperous future. When a young student in Gaza completes their education, or a Syrian family returns home after years of displacement, we see the tangible and meaningful impact that stability has—not only on individual lives, but on entire economies and societies.

    Distinguished Guests,

    In the State of Qatar, we aspire to build a diversified and prosperous economy —one driven by knowledge, innovation, and aligned with the pace of the global technological revolution, characterized by flexibility and adaptability. We aspire for Qatar to be a beacon of technological advancement and a global center for investment and business, built on trust, and for Qatar to always remain a reliable partner, whether in energy or investment, as well as in diplomacy.

    In line with this vision, we are actively working to translate our aspirations into reality by diversifying our foreign investments to enhance our strategic balance and contribute to the development of a long-term, sustainable economy. The Qatar Investment Authority continues to play a central role in this effort, pursuing long-term strategic partnerships across the globe. Over the past year, it has made significant investments spanning the United States, Africa, and China.

    These initiatives reflect our strong confidence in the resilience and potential of global markets—especially emerging markets—and their role in shaping the future.

    Domestically, Qatar’s economy maintained positive momentum, achieving real GDP growth of 2.4% in 2024, with total output reaching QAR 713 billion.

    This growth has been driven largely by significant progress in Qatar’s non-oil sectors, which expanded by 3.4% annually—an encouraging sign of steady advancement toward the objectives outlined in our Third National Development Strategy.

    By the end of 2024, new foreign direct investment (FDI) had reached QAR 9.9 billion, reflecting the growing confidence of international investors in the strength and resilience of the Qatari economy.

    To sustain this momentum, the State of Qatar continues to enhance its legislative and administrative frameworks, aiming to create a more efficient, transparent, and investor-friendly business environment.

    In this spirit, we are pleased to announce today the launch of the first package of incentives for all investors, focusing on strategic sectors such as advanced manufacturing, modern technology, and logistics. This initiative marks a significant step forward in fostering growth across key sectors that will serve as the foundation of our national economy’s future.

    In addition to industrial growth, this year marked the launch of the Simaisma tourism project—one of the largest entertainment developments in the region. This project serves as a major catalyst for the real estate and tourism sectors, and a powerful driver of integrated economic development.

    In the field of innovation and digital transformation, Qatar has further solidified its position as an emerging technology hub. In February 2025, we hosted the second edition of Web Summit, which brought together over 25,000 participants from 124 countries.

    The summit successfully fostered meaningful connections between emerging tech ecosystems in Asia and Africa and leading global corporations and sovereign wealth funds—further enhancing Qatar’s role as a digital gateway between regions.

    Reinforcing this momentum, Qatar recently secured the hosting rights for the Mobile World Congress (MWC) for the next five years, with the inaugural edition set for November. This achievement firmly establishes Qatar as a key player in the global digital economy.

    To build on this progress, Qatar will soon launch a new, globally ambitious project, to be unveiled later this year.

    Together, these milestones highlight Qatar’s determination to strengthen its position as a global economic and investment hub, and to chart a future grounded in diversity, innovation, and sustainability.

    Distinguished Guests,

    The State of Qatar is committed to playing a leading role in shaping a more balanced global economy—one that fosters genuine partnership and places human beings at the center of development. We envision Qatar as a platform where ideas converge, interests align, and progress is nurtured in an environment grounded in peace, stability, and investment.

    In this spirit, we call for a holistic approach—one that integrates security with development, diplomacy with economic growth, and ensures that human dignity remains at the heart of any plans for prosperity.

    Thank you for your kind presence. I wish you a productive forum and meaningful discussions. I look forward to engaging in a constructive dialogue during the sessions ahead, and to the emergence of new economic partnerships that will help drive sustainable development—both in our region and around the world.

    May the peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.

    MIL OSI Africa –