NewzIntel.com

Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 27 May 2025 Departmental update World Health Assembly re-commits to global nutrition targets and marketing regulations

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Countries at the seventy-eighth World Health Assembly have agreed on two resolutions to extend the comprehensive implementation plan on maternal, infant and child nutrition to 2030 and to regulate the digital marketing of breast-milk substitutes.

    The extended comprehensive implementation plan, first adopted at the Sixty-Fifth World Health Assembly in 2012, builds on progress made to-date while acknowledging shortfalls and adopting new process indicators to monitor progress on areas like dietary diversity and breastfeeding. In addition, more ambitious goals were set for targets that have nearly been achieved, such as exclusive breastfeeding rates and the proportion of children who are overweight.

    The 2030 targets are:

    • 40% reduction in the number of children under 5 years of age who are stunted, compared to the 2012 baseline;
    • 50% reduction in anaemia in women of reproductive age, compared to the 2012 baseline;
    • 30% reduction in low birth weight, compared to the 2012 baseline;
    • reduce and maintain overweight in children under 5 years of age to less than 5%;
    • increase the rate of exclusive breastfeeding in the first 6 months up to at least 60%; and
    • reduce and maintain wasting in children under 5 years of age to less than 5%.

    Rather than simply extending the targets, this resolution calls for the scaled-up integration of essential nutrition action across all sectors along with capacity-building of health-care workers and fiscal policies such as the taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages. In addition, the new 2030 deadline aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals agenda while allowing for countries to respond to emerging threats such as climate change, economic crises, rising food prices and internal displacement, all of which impact nutrition. 

    “Globally in 2024, an estimated 148 million children under 5 experienced stunting, 45 million were estimated to be wasted, and 37 million children were overweight or living with obesity,” said the representative of Ireland, which proposed the resolution together with Ethiopia. “That is almost 240 million children who are being denied the chance to thrive and meet their full potential.”

    Complementing this resolution, countries also agreed to extend the provisions of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes (the Code) aimed at combatting the digital marketing of formula milk and baby foods. The Code – a landmark public health agreement passed at the World Health Assembly in 1981 – aims to protect caregivers and new mothers from aggressive marketing practices by the baby food industry, which often makes misleading claims or promotes unhealthy baby foods. In recent years, new digital marketing tactics have proliferated, particularly through the use of influencers and social media channels.

    The 2025 resolution calls for more robust efforts to develop, strengthen and coordinate the regulation of digital marketing to protect infant and child health during the first 1000 days of life. It also calls on countries to invest in effective systems for monitoring and enforcement.

    “Optimal breastfeeding provides critical nutrition and limits free sugar exposure, making it a powerful [and] cost-effective intervention to reduce the lifelong risk of NCDs,” noted the representative of FDI World Dental Federation, a non-State actor in official relations with WHO. “We applaud the new operational targets, especially early breastfeeding initiation, access to counselling on infant and young child feeding, and tracking sugary drink consumption in children.”

    Malnutrition in every form presents a significant threat to human health, particularly for infants, young children and adolescents – all stages of life at which nutrition can have a lifelong impact. Together these agreements send a strong message that maternal, infant and young child nutrition must be incorporated into national health policies and plans as a top priority, and that the digital marketing of breast-milk substitutes must be regulated, monitored and enforced.

    Children are the foundation of our shared future, and these resolutions reflect a commitment to giving every child the best possible chance of realizing their full potential.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA participates in water implementation and partnership conference in Lusaka

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, will lead a high-level delegation to the 3rd Pan-African Implementation and Partnership Conference on Water (PANAFCON-3), scheduled to take place in Lusaka, Zambia, from 27 to 29 May 2025.

    South Africa’s participation in the conference, is in line with the country’s unwavering commitment to African unity, water justice, and sustainable development.

    The conference is hosted by the Republic of Zambia’s Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, under the auspices of the African Union (AU), and the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW).

    It is co-convened by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), African Development Bank/Africa Water Facility (AfDB/AWF), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)

    Held under the theme: “Assuring inclusive and climate-resilient water security and sanitation for the Africa We Want”, PANAFCON-3 is a landmark platform bringing together governments, experts, decision-makers, and sector stakeholders to shape Africa’s Post-2025 Vision and Policy on water and sanitation.

    The conference responds to the urgent need for coordinated, African-led solutions to challenges of water scarcity, climate change, and sustainable infrastructure.

    South Africa’s participation led by Minister Majodina, signals the country’s commitment to Pan-Africanism and the broader African Union Agenda 2063.

    The department highlighted that progress reported by Member States against the targets of the Africa Water Vision 2025 (AWV 2025) and related commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), indicated that the region is off track to actualise the vision.

    “In particular, the rate of growth in services provision is outstripped by rapid population growth and urbanisation and exacerbated by the impacts of climate change and climate variability.

    “Disproportionate public funding and investments to the sector have been identified as a fundamental factor underlying the fast-fading aspiration of actualising the Africa Water Vision by 2025,” the department said in a statement.

    The department added that the conference will pave a way for Member States and partners to review the initial draft of the vision and policy framework for assuring inclusive and climate resilient water security on the continent.

    Some of the sub-themes identified to be under discussion for three days include:
    •    Financing, investments and resource mobilisation.
    •    Water supply, sanitation, hygiene, and wastewater.
    •    Water infrastructure for economic production; climate resilience; and disaster risk reduction. 
    •    Governance and institutions for managing and protecting water resources.
    •    Information management and capacity development.
    •    Gender equality and social inclusion.

    As the continent faces mounting pressures from urbanisation, climate-related water stress, and infrastructure backlogs, the Minister said the conference offers a strategic moment for African states to align efforts toward inclusive development.

    “As Africans, our liberation is incomplete without sovereignty over our natural resources. Water is not just a basic right, it is a strategic resource essential to the dignity, health, and economic empowerment of our people.

    “Through platforms like PANAFCON, we unite to demand justice, equity, and transformation for all Africans,” the Minister said.

    At the conference, Majodina will engage in high-level dialogues on regional collaboration, transboundary water governance, and accelerating access to water and sanitation infrastructure across the continent.

    Majodina’s leadership is particularly significant given her portfolio’s central role in addressing access to clean water, sanitation equity, and climate resilience in South Africa.

    Her presence reinforces South Africa’s dedication to advancing a water-secure continent through practical cooperation and transformative partnerships. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Infrastructure development “fundamental” for SA’s growth

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared infrastructure as “fundamental” to South Africa’s development and a propellant of growth.

    The President was delivering the keynote address at the fourth annual Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) held at Century City in Cape Town on Tuesday.

    The two-day symposium kicked off on Monday and brings together government leaders, infrastructure funding representatives, construction sector representatives and technical experts to discuss and share strategies and best practices for infrastructure development in the country. 

    READ | SA’s infrstructure symposium kicks off 

    “In many ways, this is a moment that – I believe – is filled with great promise and endless opportunities for infrastructure development in our country. Earlier this year, one industry publication said the country was ready to unleash an infrastructure boom. As we gather at this symposium year after year, it is important for us to understand the important role that is played by infrastructure in the life of a nation, particularly our South African nation.

    “This is so because infrastructure is fundamental to the development of our country. It serves as the backbone of economic growth and social progress and contributes to the improvement of the life of our people,” the President said.

    He described public infrastructure as the “flywheel that our economy needs to boost growth and to create jobs”.

    “Through public infrastructure we are able to build roads, ports, railways and airports to enable what we produce as a nation to move efficiently. Infrastructure development demonstrates stability and great potential to investors. Infrastructure that is well constructed and maintained encourages investors to see our country as a great investment destination.

    “Infrastructure projects create jobs not only in construction and maintenance but in a number of related industries as well. Public infrastructure in water supply, electricity, schools and health clinics improves living standards and provides dignity to our people and fosters national unity.

    “When we have good infrastructure, we are a nation that is connected by rail, road, telecommunications, electricity, education facilities, good health centres and outstanding entertainment facilities like stadiums,” he explained.

    WATCH | President Ramaphosa addresses the SIDSSA 

    From planning to execution
    During the past month, Infrastructure South Africa released the second edition of the Construction Book – which showcases some 250 fully funded infrastructure projects with a value estimated to exceed R238 billion.

    This, the President said, is a good show of intent by government to move from concept to implementation.

    “By showcasing the types of infrastructure projects being developed, the Construction Book helps the construction sector and supplier industries anticipate demand for local materials, components and services.

    “By focusing on projects that are procurement-ready and financially secured, it also reduces uncertainty for contractors, consultants, manufacturers and material suppliers. 

    “We are showing that we have moved from great ideas on paper to executable plans to implementation,” President Ramaphosa noted.

    Reflecting on the R1 trillion earmarked for infrastructure investment by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, the President said government will look to partner with the private sector.

    “As the state substantially increases its capital investment, we recognise that government does not have the financial resources to undertake this work alone. That is why we are working to mobilise all available capital, both domestic and international, towards this infrastructure boom.

    “This requires that our projects have the credibility that is necessary for stakeholders to invest in our projects and so that we can mobilise the trillions of rands in long-term savings managed by the domestic financial sector,” he said.

    Reforms will be implemented to “make public-private partnerships easier, faster and more predictable”.

    “Some of the reforms we are focusing on will make it easier for public-private partnerships under the value of R2 billion to gain approval.

    “This will significantly reduce the procedural complexity of implementing public-private projects. We are implementing the reforms necessary to make it easier for more construction by reducing regulatory duplication and providing investors with long-term certainty,” he revealed.

    Developmental agenda

    On Monday, the SIDSSA hosted a Leaders Forum with a number of Ministers from across the continent, premiers, MECs and representatives of local government.

    The President described the gathering as “vital”.

    “The Leaders Forum is a vital platform for…creating space for strategic dialogue, knowledge exchange and policy alignment. This level of collaboration is essential if we are to overcome shared challenges and realise the full potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

    “As we seek to transform our country and continent and unlock its full potential, we must place infrastructure at the heart of our development agenda. Not only as a tool for economic growth and social development, but as a symbol of our great ambition and our hope for a better future,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government outlines process undertaken on EEIPs’ policy direction in ICT sector

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Government has sought to allay fears that the recently published policy direction on the role of equity equivalent investment programmes (EEIPs) in the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) sector was intended to open a special dispensation for a particular company or an individual.

    On 23 May 2025, the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi gave notice of the proposed policy direction to be issued to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) in terms of section 3 of the Electronic Communications Act 36 of 2005 (the ECA) regarding Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) in the ICT Sector.

    The policy direction seeks to provide much-needed policy certainty to attract investment into the ICT sector, and specifically with regards to licensing for broadcasters, internet service providers, mobile networks, or fixed and mobile networks.

    The publishing of the policy direction in the Government Gazette by the Minister on Friday comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Working Visit to the United States (U.S.), where the President met with President Donald Trump at the Oval Office in Washington D.C. to reset and revitalise bilateral relations between South Africa and the U.S.

    Among the U.S.’s delegation was Elon Musk, Special Government Employee, U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), who is also Starlink’s founder and believed to have interests in bringing his company to South Africa to provide internet services.

    Appearing before the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies on Tuesday, the Minister explained that the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) has been working on the proposed policy since September last year.

    “Last year, we indicated the efforts from the department around the full recognition of equity equivalent investment programmes (EEIPs) in the ICT sector. This is also reflected in the Medium Term Development Plan for the seventh administration.

    “We are not attempting to open a special dispensation for Starlink or any other company or an individual. There is no conspiracy on our part in relation to the policy direction. There is no underhanded effort in darkness to railroad the South African public,” Malatsi said.

    In a statement issued on Friday, the Minister indicated that currently the rules around who can acquire a licence to provide electronic communications services or to operate an electronic communications network require a minimum of 30% shares to be in the hands of historically disadvantaged individuals. 

    “These regulations do not currently allow companies that can contribute to South Africa’s transformation goals in ways other than traditional ownership, to qualify for individual licences under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA), whether or not they are big international companies that do not usually sell shares to local partners,” the Minister said.

    EEIPs, provided for under the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (Act 53 of 2003) and the ICT Sector Code, allow qualifying multinationals to meet empowerment obligations through alternatives to 30% ownership. Examples of the latter can be in the form of investing in local suppliers, enterprise and skills development, job creation, infrastructure support, research and innovation, digital inclusion initiatives, and funding for Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). 

    Despite the legal standing of the ICT Sector Code under the BBBEE Act, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa’s  (ICASA) Ownership Regulations do not fully reflect its provisions – particularly regarding deemed ownership and EEIPs.

    In the process of developing the policy direction, ICASA was informed on 4 October 2024 by the DCDT of the intention to issue a policy directive to provide policy clarity on the full introduction of the EEIPs in the ICT sector.

    “That was followed by a public comment communication released on that specific day. As required by the process, we submitted the draft policy direction to ICASA to give them an opportunity to be able to engage with it,” the Minister said.

    Malatsi emphasised that EEIPs are not a new invention as it was approved by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) in 2016.

    EEIPs are alternative contributions that multinational companies can make to achieve their BBBEE ownership obligations when they are unable to sell shares directly to black South Africans due to global policies.

    These contributions, approved by the dtic, are essentially investment initiatives that promote enterprise development, job creation and socio-economic advancement.

    “While ECA, which guides the policy making in our sector and the ICASA Act do allow for ICASA to make the regulations, it also allows for ICASA in making those regulations that it must give effect to the whole parts of the ICT sector code.

    “My duty is to ensure that there is alignment between the codes and regulations, in fulfilment of all our national laws, in this case the BBBEE Act. In terms of the process that we have followed from the formulation of the policy directive, leading ultimately to the gazetting, we have followed the prescripts a Ministerial policy directive should follow,” the Minister said.

    The Minister asserted that his department has fulfilled the key steps in the formulation of the policy direction, which includes engagement with ICASA.

    “The consultation with the authority means that its submission must be given due consideration. It does not mean that the regulator can stop a Minister from exploring a policy direction because there are two steps.

    “The first step is the opportunity for the regulator to engage with the draft policy and the second step is post the public comment stage, which is where we are.

    “We must take into consideration that each and every interested stakeholder or anyone with views on this policy direction must  have their views being considered in the formulation of the policy,” he said.

    Stakeholders have a 30-day period from the day on which the Gazette was published to make their submissions on the policy directive.

    “What is incumbent of the department and the Ministry is that in the consideration of inputs from the public, they must inform the final formulation of the policy direction, which will be shared with the regulator as it is required.

    “I am pretty clear that transformation is sacrosanct in our country; that it is a non-negotiable in order for the country to achieve its aspirations, but most importantly to live up to the provisions of the BBBEE Act as it was articulated and envisaged,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deadline for Khoi-San communities to be recognised nears 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    With the deadline fast approaching, eligible Khoi-San communities and leaders are urged to submit their applications for recognition under the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, 2019 (Act No. 3 of 2019).

    This final notice is issued by the Commission on Khoi-San Matters in accordance with Section 56(2) of the Act.

    “This is the last opportunity to be part of this historic process. All applications must include the completed form and all required supporting documents,” said Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe.

    This as the Department of CoGTA believes that the recognition process is essential in affirming the identity, rights, and role of Khoi-San communities in South Africa’s traditional leadership system. 

    “It forms part of government’s broader commitment to inclusion, redress, and the restoration of dignity to historically marginalised communities.” 

    Having commenced with effect from 1 April 2021, the Act makes provision for the statutory recognition of Khoi-San leaders and communities, as well as the establishment of Khoi-San leadership structures.

    Burns-Ncamashe stated that this was a final and historic opportunity for Khoi-San communities and leaders to take their rightful place within the country’s constitutional democracy. 

    “We urge all those eligible to act now and ensure their voices are heard and recognised. We remain committed to affirming identity, restoring dignity, and ensuring inclusive traditional leadership,” the Deputy Minister added. 

    Applications must be submitted via the designated portal https://www.cogta.gov.za/index.php/docs-category/khoisan-applications/, where more details on eligibility and the application process are available.

    The closing date for applications is Thursday, 29 May 2025.  

    The department said no late applications will be accepted under any circumstances. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Efforts to remove wrecked and abandoned vessels

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has directed the urgent removal of wrecked and abandoned vessels that pose significant risks to navigation, marine ecosystems, and the safety of coastal communities.

    These efforts reflect the bold steps being taken to address longstanding environmental and safety complexities in South Africa’s proclaimed fishing harbours, including Gordons Bay, Lamberts Bay, Saldanha Bay, St Helena Bay and Hout Bay.

    “For too long, these derelict vessels have been a blight on our harbours, endangering our marine environment and the safety of those who rely on these waters. I am committed to reversing this legacy of neglect and ensuring our coastal infrastructure supports both environmental sustainability and economic prosperity,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

    Under the authority of the Wreck and Salvage Act 94 of 1996, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has issued Marine Information Notice MIN 08-25, directing the owners of identified wrecks to remove their vessels by 16 June 2025. 

    Failure to comply by this date will result in further action by the authorities, with costs recoverable from the owners as stipulated in the Act.

    According to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment the removal of these wrecks will enhance the safety of harbours, protect marine biodiversity, and support the livelihoods of communities that depend on these waters. 

    “Our harbours are vital to our coastal communities and marine ecosystems. By removing these wrecks, we are safeguarding our oceans for future generations and creating safer, more sustainable hubs for maritime activities,” George said.

    The department, in consultation with SAMSA, will ensure that the process is conducted responsibly, prioritising environmental protection and compliance with legal frameworks. 

    The Minister has called on all vessel owners to cooperate fully with this directive and contact SAMSA promptly to arrange compliance by 16 June 2025.

    “I urge vessel owners to act swiftly and responsibly to meet the 16 June 2025 deadline. Together, we can restore the vibrancy of our harbours and protect the natural heritage of our coastline,” he said.

    For further details, refer to the SAMSA Marine Information Notice MIN 08-25, available at www.samsa.org.za, or contact SAMSA at marinenotices@samsa.org.za. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister Lamola to participate in DRC, Sudan peace efforts  

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Tuesday, May 27, 2025

    International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, is currently in Kampala, Uganda, to attend the 12th High-Level Meeting of the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM) for the Peace, Security, and Cooperation (PSC) Framework concerning the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). 

    The PSC Framework is set for Wednesday, 28 May 2025, and aims to address the structural causes of instability and the recurring cycles of conflict in the eastern DRC and the Great Lakes region.

    “It outlines a set of commitments divided between the DRC, neighbouring countries, regional and international actors.” 

    The ROM is the primary decision-making body of the PSC Framework and meets annually to assess the implementation of these commitments. 

    According to the department, the summit will take place against the backdrop of the deteriorating political, humanitarian, and security situation in the eastern DRC. 

    “The situation has been compounded by the resurgence and continuing territorial acquisition and expansion by the March 23 Movement (M23)/Congo River Alliance, supported by some external actors, that has led to many deaths, humanitarian crises, and heightened tensions within the region.” 

    The ROM is expected to adopt an action plan that will revitalise the PSC Framework since its formal adoption and signing in 2013.
    “The summit will also reflect on the current deadly conflict in Sudan and the worrisome political situation in South Sudan.

    “As a signatory to the PSC Framework, South Africa will continue to support the full implementation of the PSC Framework in addressing the above-mentioned challenges,” said the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Call for rebranding of TVET colleges to unlock full potential

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, has called for the rebranding of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, to help them realise their full potential.

    Gondwe made the call during an Education World Forum (EWF), held recently in London, United Kingdom (UK).

    The Deputy Minister led the South African delegation from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) at the EWF, which was held under the theme: “From stability to growth; building stronger, better, bolder education together.”

    The Education World Forum is the world’s largest annual gathering of education and skills ministers. The event provides excellent networking and peer learning opportunities for ministers from around the world to discuss the most pressing issues in the education space.

    This year’s Education World Forum explored a wide spectrum of critical issues surrounding the development of inclusive, responsive, and resilient education systems that drive equitable and sustainable socio-economic growth.

    It also facilitated reflection on innovative solutions to tackle today’s pressing global challenges, with a focus on leveraging technology, public-private partnerships, and international collaboration.

    The Deputy Minister participated in key discussions and engagements regarding themes, including girls’ education, fostering public-private partnerships to drive innovation in education, and promoting vocational education and skills development, as pathways to youth employment and economic growth.

    During a parallel session on vocational education and skills development, which included insights from Mauritius and Macedonia countries, Gondwe stressed a need for rebranding of TVET and community colleges, in order to make vocational education the first choice for students.

    “In South Africa, TVETs and community colleges are often the second or third choice for students, and I think this is due to the fact that universities obtain a lion’s share of our budget. Many students still wish to enrol at universities instead of technical colleges and our community colleges.

    “Therefore, I think we need to ensure that TVETs provide future skills that will contribute to economic growth and job creation, such as robotics, AI [Artificial Intelligence], and coding,” the Deputy Minister said.

    Strengthening public-private partnerships

    In another key parallel session on public-private partnerships in education, which included contributions from Paraguay, Botswana, and Hungary education ministers, Gondwe advocated for the strengthening of public-private partnerships within the higher education sector to enhance the absorption of students in the economy.

    She said her office has been working towards trying to leverage public-private partnerships, to ensure that students from the higher education sector can be absorbed into the economy as employees or create their own opportunities.

    “I believe it is important to strengthen public-private partnerships in order to tackle the high rate of youth unemployment in our country, which aligns with the priorities of the Government of National Unity (GNU), which include job creation and reducing poverty levels,” the Deputy Minister said.

    Insights from UK vocational colleges

    While in the UK, Gondwe visited Richmond upon Thames College – a public academic and vocational training college in London, to gain first-hand insights into how vocational training colleges operate in the UK.

    The college, which has over 2000 students, offers a variety of courses, including Forensic Science, Carpentry, Aviation, Computing and Information Technology Installation, and Medical Sciences.

    The college also boasts more than 1 500 engagements and partnerships with employers and its various courses designed by employers.

    The visit to the college provided valuable lessons and insights on how close collaboration between vocational training colleges and industries, can ensure that young people are equipped with skills that are in demand and needed by the economy. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Roundtable to focus on strengthening political and administrative interface

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile will lead a roundtable discussion on strengthening the political and administrative interface on Friday, 30 May 2025. 

    This engagement is part of the broader efforts by the Presidency to support the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030. 

    The NDP emphasises the importance of establishing a capable and developmental state to effectively address the country’s socio-economic challenges.

    According to the Presidency, the roundtable will help advance the work of the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC), which the Deputy President chairs. 

    The HRDC plays a crucial role in building a capable developmental state in South Africa by focusing on skills development, aligning human resource development strategies with the NDP, as well as promoting the professionalisation of the public service.

    The roundtable will bring together senior government officials, organised business, organised labour, civil society and academia to discuss challenges, best practices, and solutions to enhance effective governance and implement national priorities.

    “Since 1994, South Africa has been on a path of balancing state intervention with market-driven growth through policies such as the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) and later Growth, Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) policy as the two most prominent ones. 

    “However, globalisation and the dominance of certain neoliberal economic policy influences continue to pose challenges to state capacity and transformative development,” said the Presidency on Tuesday.

    Despite these challenges, the Presidency said South Africa has continued efforts to build its state capacity and pursue pro-poor policies to address the gaping inequalities and the legacy of apartheid.

    “The roundtable is, therefore, a crucial step towards achieving the strategic priorities set out by the seventh administration, which are driving inclusive growth and job creation; reducing poverty and tackling high cost of living, as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental state.” – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Onderstepoort Biological Products appoints interim CEO

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Board of Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP), in consultation with Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, has appointed Dr Jacob Modumo as interim Chief Executive Officer, following the resignation of Dr Bethuel Nthangeni, due to health reasons.

    Onderstepoort Biological Products Communication Officer, Zipho Linda, said Dr Modumo brings a wealth of experience and insight to the role.

    “With over 20 years of leadership experience, he is well-positioned to guide the organisation during this transitional period. Dr Modumo is committed to upholding the organisation’s values, advancing its strategic goals, and ensuring the continued delivery of exceptional service to all stakeholders,” Linda said.

    Linda added that Modumo’s appointment reflects the organisation’s commitment to maintaining continuity and stability during the interim phase.

    Under Dr Modumo’s leadership, Linda said the OBP will continue to strengthen its initiatives to meet the needs of its community, clients, and partners.

    She said the Board has commenced a formal search for a permanent CEO to lead the organisation into the next phase of growth and development.

    “In the meantime, the Board is confident that Dr Modumo will steer the organisation with skill and dedication.”

    Onderstepoort Biological Products SOC Ltd is a South African state-owned animal vaccine manufacturing entity, whose mandate is to manufacture and distribute animal vaccines to prevent and control animal diseases that impact food security, human health, and livelihoods.

    The mandate is delivered through the continued development of innovative products and efficient manufacturing, which ensures vaccine affordability and accessibility, through varied distribution channels. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Infrastructure, jobs and Growth: Inside South Africa’s construction revolution

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa is on a path of accelerated progress with infrastructure development fuelling economic growth and job creation. 

    This according to Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, who spoke to SAnews on the sidelines of the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa, being held in Cape Town.

    Macpherson cited the second edition of the Construction Book which showcases 250 fully funded infrastructure projects – worth at least R238 billion – as one example of government’s commitment to turning South Africa into a construction site.

    “We are actively putting our money into those projects to ensure that they are prepared on time and on budget and that they have the best chance of success. We heard from the President and his commitment to driving infrastructure growth in the country, the R1 trillion that’s been committed by Minister [Enoch] Godongwana in the budget, record levels of investment in public infrastructure.

    “You can start to see that this country is on the move, that infrastructure is at the heart of our growing economy and job creation plans,” he said. 

    Furthermore, Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) has announced the new top seven infrastructure priorities for 2025/26. These are:

    • Boegoebaai Port and Rail Development in the Northern Cape;
    • Project Alpha 300MW Gas to Power Project;
    • City of Ekurhuleni Wastewater Conveyance and Treatment System Regionalisation;
    • Coega SEZ 100MW Solar Farm – ground mount;
    • South Africa Water Reuse Programme (WRP);
    • ⁠Regional Energy Infrastructure, Storage and Distribution Programme by Limpopo Energy User Association; and
    • ⁠Gauteng Urban Upgrade Programme, Johannesburg CBD.

    The Minister highlighted the critical role that ISA has to play in the next few years.

    “We are very optimistic about the role that [ISA] will play in being the central point of coordination, planning and preparation to make sure that budgets are spent; to make sure that projects are delivered [and] to make sure that our economy grows to create jobs,” the Minister told SAnews.

    On Monday, Macpherson led a Leaders Forum at SIDSSA, which included Ministers from across the African continent, Premiers and local government leaders.

    The Minister described discussions at the forum as “hugely important”.

    “We were able to discuss and conceptualise how we need to find commonality in how we approach infrastructure projects on the continent…the language that we use, technical specifications and the agreements, the partnerships.

    “You could really see a blossoming of cooperation in that room and so these are now conversations that we will want to take forward to the AU [African Union]; that we want to take forward into regional blocs and on a country-to-country basis,” he said.

    Improving Municipal infrastructure

    On the Adopt-A-Municipality initiative, Macpherson hailed it as an opportunity to improve the coalface of service delivery in South Africa.

    The initiative – which is in its pilot phase at three municipalities – paves the way for ISA to work with municipalities to introduce rapid infrastructure interventions and assist with the delivery of infrastructure projects.

    The scope of ISA’s work with the three – Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga – based municipalities will include:

    • Project preparation and planning;
    • Collaboration with municipalities and strategic partners to efficiently package projects and programmes;
    • Assisting municipalities in developing robust and bankable business cases to attract funding from both public and private sectors;
    • Streamlining approvals, authorisations, licences, and permissions to expedite project implementation and address regulatory bottlenecks that may hinder progress; and
    • Implementing effective monitoring mechanisms to track project progress, ensuring accountability and the timely completion of infrastructure developments.

    “We know that local government is really battling in the infrastructure space and that’s where communities really feel it the most. We have put together a plan to partner with municipalities over 24 months to have help with their project preparation and to help them deliver in those municipalities about R3.5 billion worth of infrastructure which is really big.

    “That is hugely exciting and it came from the Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Council in November. [But] it shows that we’re not just talking about things. We’re actually getting them moving and getting them going and I’m looking forward to showing the President those results in 24 months’ time about what the net result of properly planned and prepared infrastructure can be,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Not just talk: how dialogue can help address complex problems

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ralph Hamann, Professor, University of Cape Town

    Societies around the world are confronted with complex problems that defy resolution by any single actor, even well-resourced governments or corporations. Problems like food security, climate change, or biodiversity loss involve a lot of elements and dynamics. A variety of stakeholders need to be involved in creating effective responses to such problems.

    The difficulty is not only in creating coordinated responses. There is often also a need to develop a shared understanding of what the problem and its underlying causes actually are.

    To foster a shared understanding and coordinated, innovative action, it can help to convene key players in multi-stakeholder dialogue processes.

    A first step is to identify and enrol the actors that are either influential in – or directly affected by – the focal problem. These people are then invited to engage in dialogue with each other in a carefully designed, structured process.

    Processes can take a variety of forms. But a common feature is that participants have enough time and support to look at the problem from different angles, to interact in ways that break down stereotypes, and to think afresh about new ways of acting.

    Fifteen years ago, we were involved in establishing a platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue with a focus on the problem of hunger and food insecurity. It is called the Southern Africa Food Lab. Recently, we analysed the numerous dialogue processes hosted by this initiative over the years to better understand when and how they can make a positive difference.

    We found that even though some dialogue processes don’t seem to be obviously successful, they can play an important role in enabling subsequent dialogues to have far-reaching impacts. And for dialogue to have an impact, it needs to involve a “deeper” kind of participant interaction, beyond formal roles, polite facades, and adversarial debate.

    What does success look like, and when is it achieved?

    Participants and funders are unlikely to remain committed to a dialogue process if they feel it is little more than a series of “talk-shops”. We wanted to achieve tangible changes in government policies and corporate strategies, or collaborative actions that combine resources from different organisations.

    Because we had hosted numerous dialogue initiatives over the 15-year lifespan of the Food Lab, in our analysis we were able to compare different processes in terms of their impacts.

    We found that some of the dialogue processes – especially the early ones – had relatively limited impacts. Though the participants said they’d gained new insights and formed new relationships, there were few changes in organisational policies or practices.

    For example, early on in the initiative, we hosted a dialogue on supporting smallholder farmers. Participants emphasised that they learnt important lessons during this process. During field trips in different parts of the country, they came to appreciate the diverse difficulties encountered by smallholder farmers. And government officials appreciated academics’ analysis of the different kinds of smallholder farmers and corresponding support needs. But these insights and experiences did not yet result in changes in organisational behaviours or strategies.

    Other initiatives were more obviously successful in creating new and influential responses to the hunger problem. For example, we convened a second dialogue focused on smallholder farmers 18 months after the first one. It included some of the same participants as the first process, as well as others. This process resulted in more far-reaching changes.

    For instance, retail companies agreed to revise their supplier standards so that smallholder farmers’ diverse needs and challenges were better accounted for. Government officials used the dialogue to redesign their agricultural extension services. A farmer training programme was established with links to a more context-sensitive and supportive certification system.

    In our analysis, we considered many different explanations for why some dialogue processes were more successful than others. We discovered a pattern: our early dialogue processes were less likely to have impact than subsequent, follow-up dialogues.

    The early dialogues played a crucial role, however, in preparing the ground for the subsequent dialogues to be more effective. They helped participants develop the insights and relationships that enabled the deeper engagement necessary to create real changes.

    What kind of dialogue is needed?

    To create meaningful change, a dialogue needs to move from what we call “shallow” to “deep” dialogue. Shallow dialogue is the more common kind. It is what happens when different people are invited to a workshop and their interactions are shaped by their established views of themselves, the problem at hand, and other actors. Often they hide behind polite facades or blame each other.

    Deep dialogue, in contrast, has a distinct flavour and temperament. Participants gain a more multi-faceted understanding of each other. Thabo is not just a government official but also passionate about nature-based farming. John is not just a corporate manager but also volunteers for animal rights.

    Participants’ focus shifts from defending their personal views or organisational interests to a more expansive, genuine interest in learning from each other, and to exploring new ways to understand the focal problem and possible responses.

    How can this kind of dialogue be achieved?

    First, the potential for multi-stakeholder dialogue needs to be carefully assessed and motivated. Participants and funders need to agree that the problem is complex and in need of fresh responses. This rationale needs to be continuously reviewed and communicated to maintain commitment and engagement.

    Second, it is important to get the “right people” to participate in the process. This includes actors with influence, such as government officials or leaders. But it also includes people who are most directly affected by the focal problem, not least because they have unique knowledge about it.

    Third, convening and facilitating dialogue requires a range of commitments, resources and skills. For a start, as university-based researchers we had some degree of convening power. Participants perceived us to have at least some degree of neutrality. We needed to maintain this perception as much as possible, for example by being careful about what funding to accept. This was important given the controversies in the food security field.

    We also had to make sure we had the necessary facilitation competencies. Especially in the early years, we benefited from facilitators who had a lot of experience in this kind of thing. A facilitator needs to be able to make participants feel comfortable but, when necessary, challenge them to move beyond their “comfort zone”.

    Finally, it is helpful to recognise the cyclical and longer-term nature of dialogue – earlier processes create the “groundwork” for subsequent ones. This means that, as conveners, we needed to find ways of keeping the initiative alive in the periods in between dialogue processes, even if there was no funding available. In our case, it helped that we were university researchers who did not rely on consulting fees. More generally, conveners and funders should budget for “bridging” resources to enable the longer-term unfolding of dialogue’s true impact.

    Rebecca Freeth is a co-author of this article. She is a senior consultant with Reos Partners (Africa office).

    – Not just talk: how dialogue can help address complex problems
    – https://theconversation.com/not-just-talk-how-dialogue-can-help-address-complex-problems-256825

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Sugary drinks, processed foods, alcohol and tobacco are big killers: why the G20 should add its weight to health taxes

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Karen Hofman, Professor and Programme Director, SA MRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science – PRICELESS SA (Priority Cost Effective Lessons in Systems Strengthening South Africa), University of the Witwatersrand

    By 2030, non-communicable diseases will account for 75% of all deaths annually. Eight percent of these will be in the global south. Most of these diseases are what we call silent killers: type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, as well as certain types of cancer at increasingly younger ages.

    The consumption of sugary drinks and processed foods high in sugar, salt and saturated fats is fuelling these pandemics. And increasingly advertising is being seen as the means by which the consumption of unhealthy products is promoted. This translates into the growth of non-communicable diseases in populations across the globe. This rising threat is driven largely by the way in which markets and industries are organised, which, in turn, shapes social norms towards consumption of tobacco, alcohol, food and sugary beverages.

    This process is what’s known as commercial determinants of health.

    Products that top the list in terms of their risk to health are tobacco, sugary beverages, ultra processed food and alcohol.

    These products are heavily advertised. For example, in South Africa from 2013 to 2019, sugary beverage manufacturers spent US$191 million (R3.7 billion) to advertise their products. Many of the TV advertisements for sugary drinks were placed during child and family viewing time, between 3pm and 7pm.

    Over the past decade a number of countries have introduced policies in a bid to limit the use and intake of harmful food and beverages. These have ranged from taxes on certain products, such as sugar, alcohol and tobacco, to bans on advertising. Many have proved effective. But there are still big gaps in policies to control these harmful products.

    As academics who have researched this field for three decades we believe that the G20 can play a significant role in plugging these gaps. The countries under the G20 umbrella, which represent two thirds of the world’s population, have reason to act: all are experiencing a mounting burden of obesity-related illness such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer at ever-younger ages.

    One of South Africa’s G20 presidency health priorities is “stemming the tide of non-communicable diseases”. In our view this is an invitation for the G20 to pledge to combat the drivers of non-communicable diseases.

    The G20 can acknowledge that these diseases are part of a pathological system in which commercial actors are causing ill health. And G20 leaders can acknowledge that progress enacting health taxes has stagnated in most countries.

    By galvanising attention in this way, the G20 can give impetus to a high level United Nations meeting in 2025 at which a new vision for the control and prevention of non-communicable diseases is due to be set. Health taxes and bans on marketing are focus areas.

    What stands in the way of progress

    Efforts by various countries to curb consumption of these harmful products have shown one thing clearly: there’s no silver bullet.

    Nevertheless, evidence shows that consumers are responsive to price. This points to the fact that taxes are a key tool for decreasing demand, especially for young consumers.

    Read more: Sugary drinks are a killer: a 20% tax would save lives and rands in South Africa

    There is also mounting evidence that health taxes are progressive for health at a population level – in other words they lead to better health outcomes. Research also shows that they scarcely affect overall employment, if at all.

    But advances on alcohol and tobacco taxes are slow. And there has been little progress on taxes on sugary beverages.

    These taxes remain far too low because health promotion taxes face tough resistance from industry. When any health promotion taxes are proposed, industries deny harms, promote doubt, divert attention, spread disinformation, create front organisations, and varnish their reputations through corporate social responsibility initiatives.

    When taxes do proceed through the legislative or regulatory process, industries influence proposals to make them less effective. They also offer to replace legislation with voluntary commitments. Evidence shows that voluntary commitments do not work.

    What would be gained

    In 2024, a report by a panel of experts showed that US$3.7 trillion in additional revenue could be generated over five years if all countries increased prices of tobacco, alcohol and sugary beverages by 50%.

    This money is sorely needed to boost healthcare. Non-communicable diseases disproportionately affect the most poor and vulnerable and healthcare systems are increasingly unable to cope. Screening, diagnosis, medications and treatment are very expensive for both ministries of finance and at the household level, where health needs can result in catastrophic expenditure.

    And taxes that generate a 50% increase in real prices of tobacco, alcohol and sugary beverages would save 50 million lives globally over 50 years.

    Where to begin

    We believe the G20 platform is a sound one on which to champion efforts to curb the consumption of harmful products. This is because half of the countries in the group have one or two policies for food such as taxes on sweetened beverages. Their experiences can therefore inform debates about how to protect the public from the fatal effects of diet-influenced diseases.

    But building a solid foundation won’t be easy. What’s needed is for the G20 to put its weight behind these key points:

    • Promoting good health before people get sick should be an imperative because the cost of inaction in financial and human terms is just too high.

    • Promoting the case for raising tobacco taxes, because tobacco continues to cause the most death and illness. But taxation has stalled. Approximately 90% of smokers live in countries where cigarettes were equally or more affordable in 2022 than they were five years earlier.

    • A renewed focus on alcohol taxes, which have shown little improvement in the last decade. Alcohol excise taxes are not being used effectively.

    • Fresh impetus behind increasing the level of taxes as a percentage of the cost of sugar sweetened beverages. Evidence suggests that to be effective, taxes on sugar sweetened beverages should increase product prices by at least 20%.

    • Champion nutrition regulation when navigating the trade and nutrition policy environment. Trade policies can be inconsistent with health policies.

    • Lastly, push for stronger global monitoring frameworks to track corporate accountability in health. This should include clear conflict of interest policies, information management, and exposing when corporations try to shape their own evidence-base or discredit research that would be supportive of public health policies.

    – Sugary drinks, processed foods, alcohol and tobacco are big killers: why the G20 should add its weight to health taxes
    – https://theconversation.com/sugary-drinks-processed-foods-alcohol-and-tobacco-are-big-killers-why-the-g20-should-add-its-weight-to-health-taxes-256024

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson on the Passing of Congressman Charles B. Rangel

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

    It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I join our nation in mourning the loss of Congressman Charles B. Rangel—a titan of public service, a warrior for justice, and a beacon of hope for generations of Americans. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the fabric of our nation, but his extraordinary legacy will forever illuminate the path toward equity and dignity for all.

    Congressman Rangel was not only a colleague and mentor but a cherished friend and a guiding force in my life. His bond with my father, the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, was forged in the fires of the Civil Rights Movement, where they stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight for voting rights, economic justice, and the soul of our democracy. “Charlie” as we all affectionately called him, was a brother in struggle and a steadfast ally who reminded us that “service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this Earth.” His counsel to me, as a young man navigating the weight of my family’s legacy, was unwavering: “Keep your eyes on the horizon, but never forget the people who lifted you there.”

    A son of Harlem and a decorated Korean War veteran, Congressman Rangel carried the scars of battle—both on the battlefield, where he earned a Purple Heart, and in the halls of Congress, where he waged a 46-year campaign against inequality. As a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, he transformed its vision into a powerhouse for progress, championing landmark legislation from the Martin Luther King Jr. National Holiday to the fight for Reparations. His leadership as Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee redefined economic fairness, ensuring that prosperity reached those too long left behind.

    Charlie’s life was a living testament to Black history. From his humble beginnings in a Harlem housing project to his rise as one of Congress’ most influential voices, he embodied the resilience and brilliance of our community. He stood as a bridge between the giants of the Civil Rights era and the leaders of today, reminding us that the fight for justice is both timeless and urgent. His unapologetic advocacy for the marginalized—whether through challenging apartheid in South Africa or battling discriminatory drug policies at home—cemented his place among the pantheon of American freedom fighters.

    To the Rangel family, I extend my deepest condolences and the gratitude of a nation forever shaped by his courage. Charlie Rangel’s light will never dim. As we mourn, let us also celebrate a life that taught us to lead with conviction, serve with compassion, and never surrender in the pursuit of what is right.

    Rest in power, Chairman. Your rent was paid in full.

    ####

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Sugary drinks, processed foods, alcohol and tobacco are big killers: why the G20 should add its weight to health taxes

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Karen Hofman, Professor and Programme Director, SA MRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science – PRICELESS SA (Priority Cost Effective Lessons in Systems Strengthening South Africa), University of the Witwatersrand

    By 2030, non-communicable diseases will account for 75% of all deaths annually. Eight percent of these will be in the global south. Most of these diseases are what we call silent killers: type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, as well as certain types of cancer at increasingly younger ages.

    The consumption of sugary drinks and processed foods high in sugar, salt and saturated fats is fuelling these pandemics. And increasingly advertising is being seen as the means by which the consumption of unhealthy products is promoted. This translates into the growth of non-communicable diseases in populations across the globe. This rising threat is driven largely by the way in which markets and industries are organised, which, in turn, shapes social norms towards consumption of tobacco, alcohol, food and sugary beverages.

    This process is what’s known as commercial determinants of health.

    Products that top the list in terms of their risk to health are tobacco, sugary beverages, ultra processed food and alcohol.

    These products are heavily advertised. For example, in South Africa from 2013 to 2019, sugary beverage manufacturers spent US$191 million (R3.7 billion) to advertise their products. Many of the TV advertisements for sugary drinks were placed during child and family viewing time, between 3pm and 7pm.

    Over the past decade a number of countries have introduced policies in a bid to limit the use and intake of harmful food and beverages. These have ranged from taxes on certain products, such as sugar, alcohol and tobacco, to bans on advertising. Many have proved effective. But there are still big gaps in policies to control these harmful products.

    As academics who have researched this field for three decades we believe that the G20 can play a significant role in plugging these gaps. The countries under the G20 umbrella, which represent two thirds of the world’s population, have reason to act: all are experiencing a mounting burden of obesity-related illness such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer at ever-younger ages.

    One of South Africa’s G20 presidency health priorities is “stemming the tide of non-communicable diseases”. In our view this is an invitation for the G20 to pledge to combat the drivers of non-communicable diseases.

    The G20 can acknowledge that these diseases are part of a pathological system in which commercial actors are causing ill health. And G20 leaders can acknowledge that progress enacting health taxes has stagnated in most countries.

    By galvanising attention in this way, the G20 can give impetus to a high level United Nations meeting in 2025 at which a new vision for the control and prevention of non-communicable diseases is due to be set. Health taxes and bans on marketing are focus areas.

    What stands in the way of progress

    Efforts by various countries to curb consumption of these harmful products have shown one thing clearly: there’s no silver bullet.

    Nevertheless, evidence shows that consumers are responsive to price. This points to the fact that taxes are a key tool for decreasing demand, especially for young consumers.



    Read more:
    Sugary drinks are a killer: a 20% tax would save lives and rands in South Africa

    There is also mounting evidence that health taxes are progressive for health at a population level – in other words they lead to better health outcomes. Research also shows that they scarcely affect overall employment, if at all.

    But advances on alcohol and tobacco taxes are slow. And there has been little progress on taxes on sugary beverages.

    These taxes remain far too low because health promotion taxes face tough resistance from industry. When any health promotion taxes are proposed, industries deny harms, promote doubt, divert attention, spread disinformation, create front organisations, and varnish their reputations through corporate social responsibility initiatives.

    When taxes do proceed through the legislative or regulatory process, industries influence proposals to make them less effective. They also offer to replace legislation with voluntary commitments. Evidence shows that voluntary commitments do not work.

    What would be gained

    In 2024, a report by a panel of experts showed that US$3.7 trillion in additional revenue could be generated over five years if all countries increased prices of tobacco, alcohol and sugary beverages by 50%.

    This money is sorely needed to boost healthcare. Non-communicable diseases disproportionately affect the most poor and vulnerable and healthcare systems are increasingly unable to cope. Screening, diagnosis, medications and treatment are very expensive for both ministries of finance and at the household level, where health needs can result in catastrophic expenditure.

    And taxes that generate a 50% increase in real prices of tobacco, alcohol and sugary beverages would save 50 million lives globally over 50 years.

    Where to begin

    We believe the G20 platform is a sound one on which to champion efforts to curb the consumption of harmful products. This is because half of the countries in the group have one or two policies for food such as taxes on sweetened beverages. Their experiences can therefore inform debates about how to protect the public from the fatal effects of diet-influenced diseases.

    But building a solid foundation won’t be easy. What’s needed is for the G20 to put its weight behind these key points:

    • Promoting good health before people get sick should be an imperative because the cost of inaction in financial and human terms is just too high.

    • Promoting the case for raising tobacco taxes, because tobacco continues to cause the most death and illness. But taxation has stalled. Approximately 90% of smokers live in countries where cigarettes were equally or more affordable in 2022 than they were five years earlier.

    • A renewed focus on alcohol taxes, which have shown little improvement in the last decade. Alcohol excise taxes are not being used effectively.

    • Fresh impetus behind increasing the level of taxes as a percentage of the cost of sugar sweetened beverages. Evidence suggests that to be effective, taxes on sugar sweetened beverages should increase product prices by at least 20%.

    • Champion nutrition regulation when navigating the trade and nutrition policy environment. Trade policies can be inconsistent with health policies.

    • Lastly, push for stronger global monitoring frameworks to track corporate accountability in health. This should include clear conflict of interest policies, information management, and exposing when corporations try to shape their own evidence-base or discredit research that would be supportive of public health policies.

    Susan Goldstein receives funding from the SAMRC, the NIHR and UNICEF. She is a Board Member of the Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance: South Africa,

    Karen Hofman 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. Sugary drinks, processed foods, alcohol and tobacco are big killers: why the G20 should add its weight to health taxes – https://theconversation.com/sugary-drinks-processed-foods-alcohol-and-tobacco-are-big-killers-why-the-g20-should-add-its-weight-to-health-taxes-256024

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: BOBC Auction Results – 27 May 2025

    Source: Bank of Botswana

    The Monetary Policy Rate (MoPR) was unchanged at 1.9 percent of the previous week, for a paper maturing on 4 June 2025.  For the 1-month BoBC paper maturing on 25 June 2025, the stop-out yield remained unchanged at 2.24 percent. The summarised results of the auction held on 27 May 2025, are attached below:

    BOBC Results 27 May 2025.pdf

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: The App Store prevented more than $9 billion in fraudulent transactions

    Source: Apple

    Headline: The App Store prevented more than $9 billion in fraudulent transactions

    May 27, 2025

    UPDATE

    The App Store prevented more than $9 billion in fraudulent transactions over the last five years

    In 2024 alone, Apple stopped over $2 billion in potentially fraudulent transactions and blocked nearly 2 million risky app submissions from reaching users

    Since launching in 2008, the App Store has been a safe and trusted place for users and a vibrant marketplace for developers to grow their businesses around the world. In the last five years, the App Store has protected users by preventing over $9 billion in fraudulent transactions, including over $2 billion in 2024 alone, according to Apple’s annual App Store fraud analysis. This reflects the App Store’s continued investment in fostering the most secure experience for users while providing developers with tools and resources, including a powerful commerce system that helps customers transact safely and securely in 175 regions around the globe. With an average of more than 813 million visitors a week, the App Store is a trusted destination for users to download their favorite apps and discover new ones.

    Preserving the App Store’s safe and secure marketplace requires constant vigilance, as bad actors continue to evolve their tactics in an attempt to defraud users. These threats range from deceptive apps designed to steal personal information, to fraudulent payment schemes that attempt to exploit users. Apple employs a comprehensive approach to combating fraud on the App Store, with teams across the company working to detect, investigate, and prevent malicious activity before it can reach users.

    Account Fraud

    Apple’s strong antifraud infrastructure helps ensure that malicious developer and customer accounts are swiftly flagged and eliminated. In 2024, Apple terminated more than 146,000 developer accounts over fraud concerns and rejected an additional 139,000 developer enrollments, preventing bad actors from submitting their apps to the App Store in the first place.

    Apple also rejected over 711 million customer account creations and deactivated nearly 129 million customer accounts last year, blocking these risky and malicious accounts from carrying out nefarious activity. That includes spamming or manipulating ratings and reviews, charts, and search results that risk compromising the integrity of the App Store.

    This commitment to safety extends beyond the App Store, as Apple works to prevent risky software distributed by pirate storefronts from reaching users. In 2024, Apple detected and blocked over 10,000 illegitimate apps on pirate storefronts, which include malware, pornography apps, gambling apps, and pirated versions of legitimate apps from the App Store. By restricting these storefronts, Apple also protects developers from having their apps cloned, altered, or weaponized for spreading malicious software.

    Over the past month, Apple has also stopped nearly 4.6 million attempts to install or launch apps distributed illicitly outside the App Store or approved third-party marketplaces.

    App Review

    Before any app makes its way onto the App Store, it is vetted by a member of Apple’s App Review team, all of whom are deeply familiar with the App Review Guidelines, and focused on ensuring apps meet Apple’s standards for quality and safety. On average, this team reviews nearly 150,000 app submissions each week, helping bring new apps and updates to the App Store. Last year, App Review helped more than 220,000 developers publish their first app on the App Store.

    App Review involves both human review and automated processes to detect and take action on apps that are suspected to be potentially harmful to users. With over 7.7 million App Store submissions reviewed in 2024, more than 1.9 million were rejected for failing to meet Apple’s standards for security, reliability, and user experience, including for privacy violations or fraud concerns.

    Malicious actors are known to employ a variety of tactics in their attempts to circumvent App Review’s safeguards and sneak bad apps onto the App Store with the intention of defrauding users. App Review rejects any potentially malicious apps it identifies during review, and the team’s investigation into one fraudulent app often results in the takedown of several others linked to the same problematic developer. In 2024, App Review removed more than 37,000 apps for fraudulent activity.

    Other common tactics used by fraudulent developers can include concealing hidden features and functionality in their code, which are only enabled after the app passes App Review. Apple monitors for such behavior, and in 2024, rejected over 43,000 app submissions for containing hidden or undocumented features. App Review also takes action against a number of apps that attempt to trick or scam users, and in 2024, rejected over 320,000 submissions that copied other apps, were found to be spam, or otherwise misled users.

    These bad actors can also attempt to deceive users by disguising potentially risky software as seemingly innocuous apps. Last year, App Review removed over 17,000 apps for bait-and-switch maneuvers such as these, as part of its ongoing efforts to routinely monitor and take action against problematic apps.

    Apps that attempt to access users’ personal data without their permission or knowledge are also prohibited from the App Store. In 2024, App Review rejected 400,000 app submissions for privacy violations.

    Discovery Fraud

    Apple takes swift action against apps that attempt to cheat the system and boost their ranking on the App Store, such as by using bots or paid services to artificially inflate download numbers or post fake five-star reviews.

    In 2024, Apple processed over 1.2 billion ratings and reviews and took significant action to combat fraud, removing more than 143 million fraudulent ratings and reviews from the App Store. In the same year, Apple also removed more than 7,400 apps from App Store charts and nearly 9,500 deceptive apps from appearing in App Store search results. These actions in turn benefit developers who are in good standing, leveling the playing field and allowing them a fair chance to thrive on the App Store.

    Payment and Credit Card Fraud

    Apple is diligent in its mission to protect users from scam and payment threats, and in 2024, protected users by preventing more than $2 billion in fraudulent transactions.

    Apple also takes credit card fraud extremely seriously and remains committed to protecting users from such. For example, when consumers make a purchase with Apple Pay, it uses a device-specific number and unique transaction code so a card number is never stored on a consumer’s device or on Apple servers. Additionally, credit and debit card numbers are never shared with developers, thus eliminating another risk factor in the payment transaction process. Last year, Apple identified nearly 4.7 million stolen credit cards and banned over 1.6 million accounts from transacting again.

    In addition to its antifraud measures, Apple also equips developers with access to world-class payment technologies. Examples of these include Apple Pay and StoreKit, which are used by over 420,000 apps to provide users with a safe, secure way to make purchases on the App Store.

    Developers leveraging StoreKit can take advantage of Apple’s in-app purchase system, which provides users with much more than a way to purchase subscriptions and digital add-ons. In-app purchase on the App Store offers users a secure and trusted environment designed to protect privacy, prevent fraud, and make managing purchases simple. With built-in tools to view, modify, or cancel subscriptions; purchase history; and support for refunds, users stay in control every step of the way. Every transaction is authenticated with a user’s Apple ID, backed by an industry-leading fraud protection engine, and handled with end-to-end encryption.

    Keeping Users Safe

    Apple will continue to build on its commitment to provide users with the safest and most secure experience on the App Store, which includes empowering them with resources to get help and report suspected fraud. Learn more about staying safe on the App Store at support.apple.com/en-us/122712.

    Press Contacts

    Adam Dema

    Apple

    AdamDema@apple.com

    Archelle Thelemaque

    Apple

    athelemaque2@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 15 suspected gang members indicted for drug trafficking scheme

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HOUSTON — A 29-count indictment was unsealed May 22 following the arrest of nine individuals for their alleged roles in a drug trafficking scheme that delivered illicit narcotics using a taco truck and the U.S. mail.

    The investigation that led to the indictments was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Houston and the Houston Police Department, with assistance from the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Texas Board of Criminal Justice – Office of the Inspector General.

    Houston residents James Michael Brewer aka ‘Creeper’, 33, Jonathan Alvarado aka ‘Joker’, 28, Alexis Delgado aka ‘Chino’, 28, Hector Luis Lopez aka ‘Capulito’, 23, Kylie Rae Alvarado, 24, Ruby Mata, 31, Victor Norris Ellison, 35, Mexi Dyan Garcia aka ‘Mexi’, 31, and Jesus Gomez-Rodriguez aka ‘Jr.’, 33, made their initial appearances in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas May 22 when the indictment was unsealed.

    Also charged are Enzo Xavier Dominguez aka ‘Smiley’, 32, William Alexander Lazo aka ‘Miclo’, 21, and Alfredo Gomez aka ‘Fredo’, 26. They are currently in custody and expected to make their initial appearances in the near future.

    Three other individuals who were allegedly involved in the scheme are considered fugitives and warrants remain outstanding for their arrests — Mexican national Jose Francisco Garcia-Martinez aka ‘Paco’, 29, Guatemalan national Marcos Rene Simaj-Guch aka Taco Man, 41, and Jose Eduardo Morales aka ‘Primo’, 22.

    “For years, the transnational criminal organization allegedly operated by these gang members has brazenly flooded our local communities with deadly narcotics,” said ICE HSI Houston Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz. “Working in conjunction with the Houston Police Department and our Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces partners, we were able to expose and dismantle their drug trafficking scheme, eliminating a significant contributor to violent crime in the area and saving an untold number of Houstonians from becoming addicted.”

    “As alleged, this drug trafficking organization imported methamphetamine directly from Mexico and used the U.S. mail, a taco truck, and homes in different Houston neighborhoods to distribute and sell methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Several of the defendants are also alleged to have used firearms in furtherance of their narcotics trafficking and illegally possessed firearms despite having previously been convicted of felonies. The Criminal Division, along with our federal, state, and local partners, will continue to work tirelessly to combat the scourge of drug trafficking in communities.”

    The indictment, returned under seal May 14, alleges all were members of a drug trafficking organization that distributed methamphetamine, powder cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, Xanax, psylocibin mushrooms, and marijuana. They are alleged to have used several drug houses and a food truck to store illegal drugs and conduct drug transactions. In one notable instance in June 2023, authorities seized 29 kilograms of methamphetamine that one defendant was attempting to transport into the United States, according to the charges.

    With the exception of Simaj-Guch who faces up to 40 years, the rest could receive up to life, upon conviction. Brewer, Alvarado, Lopez, Gomez and Ellison are further charged with firearms offenses which carry up to another 15 years.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco Rodriguez is prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorneys Ralph Paradiso and Amanda Kotula of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.

    For more news and information on ICE’s efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking, transnational gangs and illegal firearms in Southeast Texas follow us on X @HSIHouston.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: IDF firing ‘warning shots’ near diplomats sets an unacceptable precedent in international relations

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andrew Forde, Assistant Professor – European Human Rights Law, Dublin City University

    A still from footage of the incident when ‘warning shots’ were fired above visiting diplomats in Jenin on May 21. X (Twitter)

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) appears to have “crossed the Rubicon” in the West Bank town of Jenin, when it opened fire in the vicinity of a group of visiting diplomats on May 21 – in flagrant violation of international law. The group of diplomats representing 31 countries – including Ireland, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Egypt, Russia and China – were on an official mission organised by the Palestinian Authority to observe the humanitarian situation there.

    They were giving media interviews when IDF troops fired what they later referred to as “warning shots” over their heads, forcing them to run for cover. The shots came despite the visit having been flagged and coordinated in advance with both the Palestinian Authority and the IDF, which has effective control over the area.

    Jenin has long been a flash point in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. With much of the population descendants of Palestinian refugees from the 1948 war, Israeli occupation and active Palestinian resistance are observable in the town.

    The international community’s reaction to the warning shots incident – in particular, by those states whose diplomatic officials were directly involved – was one of swift and widespread outrage. The high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy, Kaja Kallas, called for a full investigation into the incident, and for those responsible to be held accountable. “Any threats on diplomats’ lives are not acceptable,” she said.

    The Palestinian foreign ministry accused Israel of having “deliberately targeted with live fire an accredited diplomatic delegation”.

    Israel acknowledged the incident and triggered an initial investigation, but downplayed its significance. A spokesman for the IDF said it “regrets the inconvenience caused” by the incident. But its statement went on to effectively justify the action, arguing that the diplomats had “deviated from the approved route” by entering a restricted area – leading to IDF soldiers firing warning shots into the air.

    Such a response doesn’t remotely correspond to the seriousness of the situation, and Israel is perfectly aware of this.

    International law and diplomats

    Diplomats carry out functions on behalf of the country they represent. They are the eyes, ears and voice of their country, called upon to pursue legitimate diplomatic activities. The protections afforded to individual diplomats must therefore be seen in the context of broader and longer-term diplomatic relations between states.

    To carry out diplomatic functions effectively, those individuals must be allowed to perform their functions without hindrance, coercion or harassment from any country that hosts their delegations. These customary rules are thousands of years old, and have been codified in international law through the Vienna convention on diplomatic relations – to which Israel is a signatory.

    That convention provides for diplomatic inviolability, immunity from criminal, civil and administrative jurisdiction, and freedom from detention or arrest. It also affords diplomatic staff the right to freedom of movement and free communications.

    Most importantly for this case, article 29 of the convention states that the host state “shall take all appropriate steps to prevent any attack on [their] person, freedom or dignity”.

    Firing warning shots in the vicinity of diplomats, even if done in error or without ill-intent, represents a serious threat to the person and their dignity. As such, it constitutes a flagrant abdication of Israel’s duty to protect them.

    Moreover, the firing of warning shots in Jenin immediately interrupted the diplomatic work there, and as such can be seen as an attempt to intimidate or limit the efficient and effective performance of diplomatic functions on behalf of their governments.

    Need for accountability

    Any use of force against diplomats, even indirect, is incompatible with the principles of diplomatic immunity enshrined in international law. The onus is on the host state to ensure the safety and inviolability of diplomatic personnel.

    And this duty of care is not diminished in situations of conflict. On the contrary, states have a special duty in times of conflict to protect diplomats and preserve diplomatic channels of communication.

    Israel’s actions in firing above these diplomats may or may not have been deliberate. But they had an intimidatory effect, which undermines the foundational principles of international relations. In a climate where Israel’s courts have effectively endorsed a media blackout in conflict-affected regions, the role of diplomats is indispensable.

    The entire system of diplomatic relations relies on the presumption that diplomats can carry out their functions freely and effectively. Diplomatic protections work effectively when they are reciprocal. Without trust, the system quickly unravels.

    It would be wrong to suggest this act may have tipped the balance of international opinion against Israel, when you consider the 19 months of violence in Gaza. The killing by the IDF of vast numbers of civilians (including thousands of women and children), the seeming use of starvation as a weapon of war, and the destruction of vast swaths of Gaza have rightly attracted growing international condemnation.

    On May 19, Britain, France and Canada – staunch allies of Israel – said they will “not stand by”, and would take “concrete actions” if the military offensive is not halted and humanitarian aid is not delivered to the people of Gaza.

    But threatening diplomats – even if not actively shooting at them – is an egregious breach of trust under the laws of diplomatic relations, which requires a meaningful apology and effective investigation. Those responsible for giving the orders to fire the “warning shots” need to be held accountable for that decision.

    Andrew Forde is affiliated with Dublin City University (Assistant Professor, European Human Rights Law).

    He is also, separately, affiliated with the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (Commissioner).

    – ref. IDF firing ‘warning shots’ near diplomats sets an unacceptable precedent in international relations – https://theconversation.com/idf-firing-warning-shots-near-diplomats-sets-an-unacceptable-precedent-in-international-relations-257488

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Ormat Technologies Announces $62 Million Hybrid Tax Equity Partnership for Two Energy Storage Facilities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RENO, Nev., May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ormat Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: ORA) (the “Company” or “Ormat”), a leading geothermal and renewable energy company, today announced the signing of a $62 million Hybrid Tax Equity partnership with Morgan Stanley Renewables, Inc. The partnership’s transaction covers the Lower Rio 60MW/120MWh storage facility and the Arrowleaf 35MW/140MWh storage and 42MW solar projects, which are expected to achieve COD by the end of 2025.

    “This Hybrid Tax Equity partnership is the first of its kind for our Energy Storage portfolio and highlights the innovative efforts we are taking to optimize the projects’ economics and the Company’s profitability to ensure that we have the funding we need to support our long-term growth, while simultaneously helping advance our explicit goal of monetizing $160 million of tax benefits this year,” said Doron Blachar, Chief Executive Officer of Ormat Technologies. “By continuing to effectively monetize the benefits of ITCs for our growing Energy Storage project portfolio through 2026, we are strengthening our ability to further invest in our development pipeline and ensure that we remain well-positioned to support the growing demand for energy storage projects.”

    Ormat was represented in the transaction by Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, LLP and Morgan Stanley Renewables Inc. was represented in the transaction by Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP.

    ABOUT ORMAT TECHNOLOGIES

    With six decades of experience, Ormat Technologies, Inc. is a leading geothermal company, and the only vertically integrated company engaged in geothermal and recovered energy generation (“REG”), with robust plans to accelerate long-term growth in the energy storage market and to establish a leading position in the U.S. energy storage market. The Company owns, operates, designs, manufactures and sells geothermal and REG power plants primarily based on the Ormat Energy Converter – a power generation unit that converts low-, medium- and high-temperature heat into electricity. The Company has engineered, manufactured and constructed power plants, which it currently owns or has installed for utilities and developers worldwide, totaling approximately 3,400MW of gross capacity. Ormat leveraged its core capabilities in the geothermal and REG industries and its global presence to expand the Company’s activity into energy storage services, solar Photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage plus Solar PV. Ormat’s current total generating portfolio is 1,538MW with a 1,248MW geothermal and solar generation portfolio that is spread globally in the U.S., Kenya, Guatemala, Indonesia, Honduras, and Guadeloupe, and a 290MW energy storage portfolio that is located in the U.S.

    ORMAT’S SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT

    Information provided in this press release may contain statements relating to current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about future events that are “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future, including such matters as our projections of annual revenues, expenses and debt service coverage with respect to our debt securities, future capital expenditures, business strategy, competitive strengths, goals, development or operation of generation assets, market and industry developments and the growth of our business and operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words “may”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “expects”, “plans”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “estimates”, “predicts”, “projects”, “potential”, or “contemplate” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such words or expressions. These forward-looking statements generally relate to Ormat’s plans, objectives and expectations for future operations and are based upon its management’s current estimates and projections of future results or trends. Although we believe that our plans and objectives reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, we may not achieve these plans or objectives. Actual future results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties and other risks described under “Risk Factors” as described in Ormat’s annual report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on February 27, 2025, and in Ormat’s subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q that are filed from time to time with the SEC.

    These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and, except as legally required, we undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Ormat Technologies Contact:
    Smadar Lavi
    VP Head of IR and ESG Planning & Reporting
    775-356-9029 (ext. 65726)
    slavi@ormat.com    		 Investor Relations Agency Contact:
    Joseph Caminiti or Josh Carroll
    Alpha IR Group
    312-445-2870
    ORA@alpha-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Wins MyBroadband 2025 Award for TV Brand of the Year

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung has been named the 2025 MyBroadband TV Brand of the Year, a prestigious accolade that recognises the company’s continued leadership and innovation in the television industry.
     
    Presented annually, the MyBroadband Award for TV Brand of the Year honours brands that consistently deliver outstanding products, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional user experiences to South African consumers. Samsung was chosen based on its strong brand reputation, industry-wide innovation, and deep commitment to the local market.
     
    “We are honoured and proud to be recognised as South Africa’s leading TV brand,” said Mike van Lier, Vice President for Consumer Electronics at Samsung Electronics South Africa. “This award reflects our ongoing investment in breakthrough technologies and our dedication to offering our consumers the very best in home entertainment.”
     
    Samsung has long set the standard for what televisions can achieve. The company’s pioneering work in quantum dot technology began in 2001 and led to the creation of the world’s first cadmium-free quantum dot material in 2014. This innovation laid the foundation for Samsung’s highly acclaimed SUHD and QLED TV ranges.
     
    With more than 150 patents in quantum dot technology, Samsung continues to redefine picture quality and performance with each generation of products. Its current line-up, which includes the Neo QLED and OLED ranges, showcases the brand’s commitment to delivering superior brightness, colour precision, and refresh rates for all types of viewing needs.
     
    As a leading brand in South Africa, Samsung continues to deliver TVs that resonate with local audiences, whether for sport, cinema, or gaming. A strong commitment to local customer service and support matches the company’s sustained investment in innovation and product excellence.
     
    “At its core, our business is driven by the consumer. This is why we will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in home entertainment. We are particularly excited about the future, especially after this accolade and being named South Africa’s preferred TV brand,” added van Lier.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Has Record-Breaking Cohort for Gilman Scholars

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    A record-breaking 31 UConn students have been awarded a Gilman Scholarship in the latest cohort of the prestigious academic award. The award is congressionally funded through the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs at the State Department.

    The funding supports expanding student participation in study abroad programs and encourages travel to diverse locations around the globe, along with intensive language study and internship experiences.

    The 31 UConn students, who will study in 14 different countries, will receive a total of nearly $94,000 in scholarship funds through the Gilman program. A total of 40 UConn students have earned Gilman awards in the last two cohorts, this one and October 2024, for a total of more than $121,500 in scholarship funding.

    Students applying for Gilman Scholarships work with advisors in UConn’s Office of National Scholarships & Fellowships (ONSF) and Experiential Global Learning (EGL). Rachel Gleicher, an advisor in EGL, and Michael Cunningham, assistant director of ONSF and UConn’s Fulbright program advisor, are UConn’s two Gilman certifying advisors.

    “We are very excited that the Gilman program has selected so many UConn students this cycle,” says Cunningham. “It’s a testament to the quality of our students and to the hard work that they put into their applications.”

    Upon their return from studying abroad, each Gilman Scholar is required to complete a service project in their campus or home community with the goal of sharing the value of participation in study abroad and promoting the scholarship to prospective students. Applications are reviewed with consideration for the proposed follow-up service project.

    “We are so proud of these students for staying determined and focused on their study abroad goals,” says Gleicher. “Amid uncertain times, with federal funding freezes and broader uncertainty, they remained committed to their aspirations. Now more than ever, it is crucial to ensure students are aware of the funding opportunities available to them.”

    Eligibility for the Gilman Scholarship requires undergraduate students to be Pell Grant-eligible United States citizens who plan to study abroad for academic credit through a program approved by their home institution. Supporting students with high financial need provides access to students who are historically underrepresented in study abroad, including first-generation college students, STEM majors, ethnic and racial minority students, students with disabilities, LGBTQ+ students, and others who experience barriers to participation.

    Students from underrepresented areas of the U.S. are also considered during the application process and this year there are recipients from all 50 states.

    The following UConn students were selected as Gilman Scholars in this cycle, and they are listed with the location of where they will study as part of the program:

    Carina Adams-Szabo ’27 (CLAS), a psychology and political science major from Greenwich, who will be studying neuroscience this summer in Salamanca, Spain.

    Ashley Barragan ’27 (NUR), a nursing major who will be studying at the University of Dublin Summer Applied Research for Nursing Practice in Dublin, Ireland.

    Rhys Brauer ’27 (CLAS), a psychological sciences major, who will be studying neuroscience this summer in Salamanca.

    Brooke Catellier ’26 (CAHNR), an allied health major, who will be studying the Mediterranean diet and Tuscan cuisine in Florence, Italy, this summer.

    Kylene Chino ’26 (CLAS), a human rights and political science major, who will be studying in the fall at the Pusan National University in Shanghai, China.

    Jaiyliah Cochran ’25 (CLAS), a microbiology major, who will be studying field ecology this summer in Limpopo Province, South Africa.

    Mia Dansby ’26 (BUS), a management major, who will be studying this summer at ISI in Florence.

    Andrea D’Oleo ’27 (NUR), a nursing major from East Hartford, who will be studying in the Dublin Summer Applied Research Program for Nursing Practice in Ireland.

    Danyelix Echevarria Figueroa ’28 (ACES), a pre-teaching major from New Britain, who will study next spring at the University of Grenda in Grenda, Spain.

    Dahiana Fernandez-Ramirez ’26 (CLAS), a psychological sciences major, who will be studying this fall at ISI Florence.

    Adiriana Garcia Vazquez ’25 (CLAS), a cognitive science major from Bridgeport, who will be studying this fall at the Interdisciplinary Ethnography Field School in Mauritius.

    Hannah Ginste ’26 (CLAS), a communications major, who will be doing a summer internship in London.

    Jessica Glowacki ’25 (CLAS), a biological sciences major who will be studying field ecology this summer in Limpopo Province, South Africa.

    Emma Hazard ’27 (CAHNR), a diagnostic genetic sciences major, who will be studying the Mediterranean diet and Tuscan cuisine in Florence this summer.

    Danecia Henry ’28 (BUS), a management major from New Haven, will be studying in the summer at Camino de Santiago in Spain.

    Ty’Laisha Huff ’27 (NUR), a nursing major from Hartford, will be studying at the Dublin Summer Applied Research Program for Nursing Practice in Ireland.

    Layan Jahaf ’28 (CLAS), a political science and Arabic and Islam civics major, who will be studying this fall in London.

    Dee Jerome ’26 (CAHNR), an allied health sciences major from Bridgeport, who will be studying this summer in Accra, Ghana.

    Evelyn Pazan ’27 (CLAS), a finance and German major, who will be studying during the 2025-26 academic year at the University of Mannheim in Germany.

    Danielle Phillips ’27 (CLAS), an individualized major in industrial and labor relations from Bridgeport, who will be studying this summer at the Intercultural Leadership Program in Strasbourg, France.

    Jocelyn Ramirez ’26 (BUS), a management major from New Haven, who will be studying this summer at ISI.

    Jamie Ross ’27 (CLAS), a physiology and neurobiology major, who will be studying next winter in Barcelona, Spain.

    Ellie Sanders ’27 (CAHNR), a nutritional sciences major from West Cornwall, who will be studying the Mediterranean diet and Tuscan cuisine in Florence this summer.

    Fabio Silveira ’26 (CLAS), a pathobiology major, who will be studying neuroscience this summer in Salamanca, Spain.

    Amber Szymanski ’26 (CLAS), a political science and human rights major, who will be studying this fall at the Pusan National University in Busan, South Korea.

    Angel Uchupailla ’26 (CAHNR), an allied health major from Stamford, who will be studying this winter in Rome.

    Lyric Vargas ’27 (CLAS), a political science and psychological science major, who will be studying this fall at the University of Lisbon in Portugal.

    Erica Wong ’26 (CLAS), a political science and urban and community studies major, who will be studying this fall at Fudan University in Shanghai, China.

    Morgan Xu ’26 (ENG), a materials science and engineering major from Chesire, who will be studying this fall at the National University of Singapore.

    Ada Yeung ’27 (CLAS), an individualized major, who will be studying next spring at Fudan University.

    Maggie Zheng ’27 (BUS), an accounting major, who will be studying next spring at Fudan University.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BIO-key and Runlevel Secure First Major IAM Deployment with a National Bank in Mozambique; Extends Growing List of Banking Customers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LISBON, Portugal and HOLMDEL, N.J., May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BIO-key International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BKYI), a global leader in Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions featuring Identity-Bound Biometrics (IBB), today announced a strategic partnership with Runlevel, a specialized cybersecurity solutions provider, as well as the partnership’s first customer deployment. Runlevel focuses on Portuguese-speaking African countries (“Países Africanos de Língua Oficial Portuguesa or “PALOP”) and Timor-Leste in Asia.

    Runlevel joins BIO-key’s Channel Alliance Partner (CAP) program as a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) for businesses and government institutions in PALOP countries and Timor-Leste, which face increasing cybersecurity challenges. The Runlevel partnerships marks the beginning of a broader effort to expand adoption of BIO-key solutions across the region, ensuring financial institutions, government agencies and enterprises can benefit from secure, scalable and compliant digital identity solutions. In support of BIO-key’s solutions, Runlevel will provide pre-sales consulting, deployment support and technical training tailored to regulatory requirements in PALOP and Timor-Leste.

    Partnership’s First Major Deployment
    BIO-key and Runlevel have already secured their first customer in the region — a National Bank in Mozambique — which is deploying a comprehensive suite of BIO-key’s biometric-based IAM solutions.

    This deployment highlights the growing need for robust IAM solutions in the partnership’s territories and reinforces BIO-key’s position as a trusted cybersecurity partner within the global financial sector.

    The deployment includes the following BIO-key solutions:

    • PortalGuard On-Prem
    • Highly secure IAM platform with Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
    • Single Sign-On (SSO) capabilities.

    Miguel Guerreiro, Managing Partner at Runlevel, commented, “Runlevel is committed to delivering cutting-edge security solutions that address the unique challenges faced by customers in PALOP and Timor-Leste. Partnering with BIO-key enables us to provide advanced IAM technologies that enhance cybersecurity, streamline authentication, and ensure compliance. Securing our first major deal together is a strong validation of this partnership and demonstrates the critical need for robust identity security solutions in the financial sector.”

    Alex Rocha, International Managing Director at BIO-key, added, “Runlevel is an ideal partner to expand BIO-key’s reach into Portuguese speaking markets. Their deep knowledge of the local cybersecurity landscape and strong relationships with key enterprises and public institutions make them a perfect fit for delivering BIO-key’s IAM solutions. Securing our first project together with a National Bank in Mozambique confirms the demand we believe exists for advanced IAM solutions in these regions and adds to BIO-key’s growing presence in the financial sector. Together, we are committed to supporting customers with secure, scalable, and regulation-compliant authentication technologies.”

    About Runlevel (www.runlevel.pt)
    Runlevel is a specialized cybersecurity solutions provider focusing on Portuguese-speaking African countries (PALOP) and Timor-Leste. The company delivers advanced IT security, infrastructure, and compliance solutions, helping organizations navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape with best-in-class technology and expert consulting services.

    About BIO-key International, Inc. (www.BIO-key.com)
    BIO-key is revolutionizing authentication and cybersecurity with biometric-centric, multi-factor identity and access management (IAM) software securing access for over forty million users. BIO-key allows customers to choose the right authentication factors for diverse use cases, including phoneless, tokenless, and passwordless biometric options. Its cloud-hosted or on-premise PortalGuard IAM solution provides cost-effective, easy-to-deploy, convenient, and secure access to computers, information, applications, and high-value transactions.

    BIO-key Safe Harbor Statement
    All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical facts are “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”). The words “estimate,” “project,” “intends,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “believes” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management pursuant to the “safe-harbor” provisions of the Act. These statements are not guarantees of future performance or events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those included within or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include factors set forth under the caption “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and other filings with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to disclose any revision to these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    Investor Contacts
    William Jones, David Collins
    Catalyst IR
    BKYI@catalyst-ir.com or 212-924-9800

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Plea for UN intervention over illegal PNG loggers ‘stealing forests’

    RNZ Pacific

    A United Nations committee is being urged to act over human rights violations committed by illegal loggers in Papua New Guinea.

    Watchdog groups Act Now! and Jubilee Australia have filed a formal request to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to consider action at its next meeting in August.

    “We have stressed with the UN that there is pervasive, ongoing and irreparable harm to customary resource owners whose forests are being stolen by logging companies,” Act Now! campaign manager Eddie Tanago said.

    He said these abuses were systematic, institutionalised, and sanctioned by the PNG government through two specific tools: Special Agriculture and Business Leases (SABLs) and Forest Clearing Authorities (FCAs) — a type of logging licence.

    “For over a decade since the Commission of Inquiry into SABLs, successive PNG governments have rubber stamped the large-scale theft of customary resource owners’ forests by upholding the morally bankrupt SABL scheme and expanding the use of FCAs,” Tanago said.

    He said the government had failed to revoke SABLs that were acquired fraudulently, with disregard to the law or without landowner consent.

    “Meanwhile, logging companies have made hundreds of millions, if not billions, in ill-gotten gains by effectively stealing forests from customary resource owners using FCAs.”

    Abuses hard to challenge
    The complaint also highlights that the abuses are hard to challenge because PNG lacks even a basic registry of SABLs or FCAs, and customary resource owners are denied access to information to the information they need, such as:

    • The existence of an SABL or FCA over their forest;
    • A map of the boundaries of any lease or logging licence;
    • Information about proposed agricultural projects used to justify the SABL or FCA;
    • The monetary value of logs taken from forests; and
    • The beneficial ownership of logging companies — to identify who ultimately profits from illegal logging.

    “The only reason why foreign companies engage in illegal logging in PNG is to make money,” he said, adding that “it’s profitable because importing companies and countries are willing to accept illegally logged timber into their markets and supply chains.”

    ACT NOW campaigner Eddie Tanago . . . “demand a public audit of the logging permits – the money would dry up.” Image: Facebook/ACT NOW!/RNZ Pacific

    “If they refused to take any more timber from SABL and FCA areas and demanded a public audit of the logging permits — the money would dry up.”

    Act Now! and Jubilee Australia are hoping that this UN attention will urge the international community to see this is not an issue of “less-than-perfect forest law enforcement”.

    “This is a system, honed over decades, that is perpetrating irreparable harm on indigenous peoples across PNG through the wholesale violation of their rights and destroying their forests.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: APO Group Reveals its Role as Architect Behind Catholic Church in Africa’s Groundbreaking Communications Volunteer Programme

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

    APO Group Reveals its Role as Architect Behind Catholic Church in Africa’s Groundbreaking Communications Volunteer Programme The volunteer task force includes African PR Professionals currently working in major corporations and international NGOs ACCRA, Ghana, May 27, 2025/APO Group/ — APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), a leading award-winning pan-African public relations and communications consultancy, has strategically unveiled a volunteer communications programme comprising experienced communication professionals to support the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) (www.SECAM.org), the governing body of the Roman Catholic Church in Africa. This groundbreaking initiative, developed and launched by APO Group aims to enhance the Roman Catholic Churches ability to communicate effectively and engage with communities across the African continent. The Catholic Church operates 82,235 Catholic Schools in Africa, educating 30,629,476 pupils. Its extensive network of care includes 13,880 facilities such as hospitals, clinics, dispensaries, leprosy centres, homes for the elderly and chronically ill, centres for disabled people, orphanages, kindergartens, and marriage counselling centres. APO Group and SECAM, the governing body of the Roman Catholic Church in Africa, first entered into their partnership in May 2022 with the shared goal of enhancing media and public relations support for the Catholic Church in Africa. Not only did APO Group conceive the volunteer programme but it also assembled a team of elite, well-experienced African communications professionals. The professionalization of SECAM’s communications capabilities extends beyond standard capacity-building. This initiative includes the development and delivery of a strategic communications framework that aligns with SECAM’s core mission and long-term objectives. The effort also builds upon APO Group’s previous collaborations with the Church, which include the creation and roll-out of a comprehensive communications curriculum and tailored training programme for Catholic institutions across Africa. The volunteer communications team will focus on key priorities, such as:

    • Crafting and executing a long-term communications strategy for SECAM to strengthen the voice of the Roman Catholic Church and increase awareness of its work across Africa.
    • Enhancing media relations to amplify the Church’s presence.
    • Designing effective visibility tools to connect with diverse stakeholders across Africa and beyond.

    Several talented professionals have already joined the SECAM Communications Volunteer Programme, bringing a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to advancing the Church’s mission across Africa. Among them are Catherine Njoroge (https://apo-opa.co/3HapeKg), Head of Marketing and Strategy, who plays a role in shaping long-term plans to strengthen the Church’s visibility; Nyarai Chapingidza (https://apo-opa.co/4myd1PT), Digital MarComm Manager, who drives efforts to boost SECAM’s online presence; Lucy Kimani (https://apo-opa.co/4mxTKhp), Director of Communications and Advocacy, who steers impactful storytelling and advocacy campaigns; and Eunice Chege (https://apo-opa.co/4dw97mi), Communications Advisor, who contributes her extensive experience in developing and implementing communication strategies. Additionally, professionals joining in the business support functions include Majina Mwasezi (https://apo-opa.co/45pvSq3), Project Coordinator; Pauline Lugalia (https://apo-opa.co/4mAchd2), Executive Assistant to the Head of the Catholic Church in Africa; and Anne Nasumba (https://apo-opa.co/3ZBRqMp), Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Rose Thuo (https://apo-opa.co/4dDCMu0), who joined the programme as Chief of Marketing and Communications, said: “We are witnessing a remarkable convergence of talent and purpose. Each volunteer brings something unique to the table, and together, we are building a communications foundation that will serve the African Catholic Church for years to come.” There is an urgent and immediate need for candidates with HR and recruitment, as well as Graphic Design and website management experience to join the Roman Catholic Church in Africa’s volunteer programme. Individuals with this expertise are encouraged to apply and support the Church’s mission by strengthening its operational capacity across the continent. Interested volunteers are encouraged to apply through the official link: https://apo-opa.co/4dTxLxL. “This pro bono initiative reflects APO Group’s commitment to supporting impactful organisations across Africa. Many high-impact organisations (including NGOs) in Africa face financial barriers to establishing strong communication systems. This should never impede their ability to be seen and heard,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), Founder and Chairman of APO Group. “Through initiatives like this volunteer programme, we strive to bridge that gap—delivering professional support to elevate their messaging and outreach at the highest possible level.” “Africa is now the future of the Roman Catholic Church,” said Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the President of SECAM. “As our communities continue to grow, it becomes ever more important to amplify our voice and share our mission with the world. “We are grateful to APO Group for their support and expertise in making this vision a reality. Their role in designing and implementing this initiative has been invaluable. APO Group’s dedication to empowering impactful organisations aligns perfectly with our mission, and their contribution will undoubtedly leave a legacy in the Church’s journey toward greater visibility and engagement worldwide.” As part of its ongoing partnership with the Roman Catholic Church in Africa, APO Group has delivered a comprehensive range of support initiatives, including complimentary pan-African press release distribution and media monitoring, extensive online and in-person media training for over 22 communication professionals across the continent, and the provision of Zoom licences to Episcopal and Regional Episcopal Conferences. APO Group Founder and Chairman has personally led training sessions and held strategic meetings with Church dignitaries in several African countries to assess further areas of support. Furthermore, a volunteer programme launched in 2024 is now active, enhancing operational assistance for the Church throughout Africa. According to recent data from the Vatican, there are 1.39 billion Catholics worldwide, representing around 18% of the world’s population. Africa’s 236 million Catholics already make up about 20% of the global Catholic population, but they are also the fastest-growing region in the world. By 2050, the World Christian Database estimates that African Catholics will make up 32% of the global Catholic population. According to the United Nations’ 2022 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report, there are an estimated 862.4 million volunteers globally. Engaging in volunteerism offers individuals a unique opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience, enhance their professional profiles, and develop valuable skills through impactful service. This is a joint press release from APO Group and the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM). Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group. Media contact: marie@apo-opa.com About APO Group: Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally. Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a Provoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple Provoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, the Davos Communications Awards 2025 awarded us the Gold Award for Best PR Campaign and the Bronze Award for Special Event. APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences. About the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM): The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) (www.SECAM.org) was born out of the decision of the African Bishops during the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) to establish a forum in which they could speak with one voice on matters pertaining to the Church in Africa. The establishment of SECAM is therefore the result of the Bishops’ resolve to build a continental structure in order to bring forth the African vision to the whole Church. Seeing the importance of such an Association for Africa, the Congregation for the Evangelisation of the Peoples invited the Presidents of the Regional Episcopal Conferences for consultations in 1968. Consequently, the first visit of a Pope to Africa, in modern times, was seen as a very opportune occasion for the launch of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar. This was therefore done during the visit of His Holiness Pope Paul VI in Kampala (Uganda) in July, 1969. Thereafter, it was agreed to establish the Headquarters / Secretariat of SECAM in Accra, Ghana. There are three official languages of SECAM, namely, English, French and Portuguese. SECAM functions through eight regional conferences, each made up of a cluster of national episcopal conferences.

    Text copied to clipboard.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers a keynote address at the SIDSSA 2025.

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers a keynote address at the SIDSSA 2025.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhloEfdqXOY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa’s Independent Power Producers (IPP) Office backs Youth Energy Summit

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

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, May 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    We are proud to welcome the Independent Power Producers Office (IPP) as the overall Summit Sponsor of the 2025 Youth Energy Summit (YES!). The event, happening from 18-20 June in Cape Town, will unite more than 3,000 graduates, emerging professionals, and young entrepreneurs in tackling Africa’s most pressing 21st-century energy challenges.

    For a full programme and to join the debate, visit: https://apo-opa.co/4jkJTZq

    With more than 50% of Africa still lacking access to electricity, and a vast untapped potential in renewable energy, the continent has the opportunity to create up to 100 million green jobs by 2050. But how can we meet this demand? How do we bridge the skills gap? And how can youth voices be integrated into energy decision-making at the highest levels? These are just a few of the critical questions that will be explored at YES!, the world’s largest gathering of youth in the energy sector.

    Enabling South Africa’s energy sector through youth and community development has always been at the heart of the IPP office’s activities. This investment into Africa’s youth is testament to the importance the IPP Office places on youth and community engagement throughout the deals and work they are tasked to do by the government.

    Joining the IPP Office to open the Youth Energy Summit on Wednesday 18th June will be Andry Rajoelina, the President of Madagascar, African Development Bank nominee for President, Amadou Hott, and African Union Commissioner for Energy and Infrastructure, His Excellency Lerato D. Mataboge.

    Dzunani Makgopa, IPP’s chief financial officer, says: “Renewable energy is the way to go, not just nationally, but globally. YES! is a great platform to introduce young professionals to the sector. This is the place to be, and we need to empower a lot of youth to the opportunities that exist within the energy sector.’

    Simon Gosling, EnergyNet Managing Director, adds: “It’s an exciting time for young people looking to take a more productive role in energy. The IPP Office puts community engagement and job creation at the heart of its mission. This commitment to sponsor the Youth Energy Summit is an extension of its policies and aims to expose thousands of young people to the many vast and varied opportunities within the South African IPP and energy universe.”

    Established in 2023, YES! is dedicated to empowering African youth and institutions by providing resources, training, and networking opportunities within the energy sector. The summit brings together thousands of entrepreneurs, early-career professionals, educators, and students from across the continent. With the goal of building a network of 100 million young energy leaders by 2035, YES! is accelerating the transition to a sustainable energy future.

    This year’s summit will feature dynamic sessions on energy careers, skill development, and opportunities within the sector, as well as insights from recruiters, energy entrepreneurs, and industry experts. YES! also partners with top academic institutions, including the University of Cape Town, the University of the Western Cape, Eduvos, Kenyatta University, and Harambee.

    QUOTES

    “DBSA’s mission is to build Africa’s prosperity, and we’re delighted to be working with YES! to help ensure the Youth take part in and benefit from the Energy Transition. Empowering the next generation is one of the most valuable actions anyone can take.”

    Foundation sponsor Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)

    “The Youth Energy Summit is more than a gathering – it’s a movement. Africa has the youngest population in the world, and the youth is our greatest asset in the drive towards a more sustainable, inclusive energy future.”

    Anél Bosman, Group Managing Executive, Nedbank CIB

    “Siemens Energy is at the YES Summit because we believe the bold dreams of the next generation of energy leaders can ignite a global energy revolution with real-world impact.”

    Neveen Hussein, Sustainability Leader, Middle East & Africa | Siemens Energy

    “At Pele Energy Group, we believe the true power behind the energy transition isn’t just in technology or infrastructure – it’s in people. That’s why partnering with YES! felt like more than a decision; it felt like a calling.

    Melissa Wilkinson, Chief People Person, Pele Energy Group

    “I said yes to the YES! Summit, not because of panels or speeches, but because it calls for ownership. The future of this country will not be built by someone else. It’s us, the youth, who must roll up our sleeves, lean into the discomfort, and change South Africa ourselves.”

    Layton Nenzinane, Chief Financial Officer, Seriti Green

    “EWSETA says YES to YES! because the Summit aligns with our strategic mandate to empower youth, graduates, and entrepreneurs with future-focused skills for the energy and water sectors. It offers a powerful platform to amplify our training programmes, bursaries, and impact on over 4,000 young professionals across Africa.”

    The Energy and Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA)

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: More than 84 thousand guests visited the VI Moscow Interior and Design Week

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The 6th Moscow Interior and Design Week, one of the key and largest industry events in the country, has ended in the capital. Over 84,000 guests visited the exhibition at the Manezh Central Exhibition Hall from May 22 to 25.

    The next season was dedicated to understanding the theme of nature in design. The brightest participants of the May exhibition will present their products for the first time at the collective stand of the Moscow Interior and Design Week in China — at one of the world’s largest furniture exhibitions CIFF (The 56th China International Furniture Fair). It will be held from September 9 to 12 in Shanghai. Business sessions will be organized for Russian and Chinese companies — this will allow them to establish cooperation and find new partners.

    In addition, the best works of the participants will once again become part of the updated exhibition of the Moscow Design Museum “110. Russian Design 1915-2025” in the New Tretyakov Gallery, which will open in June. They will be selected for the “Modernity” section.

    1,220 Russian and foreign companies took part in the 6th Moscow Interior and Design Week. This is three times more than in the first season, which took place in 2022.

    More than half of them (636) are representatives of the capital. 312 are participants of the Made in Moscow project, whose stand occupied the central place of the exhibition. More than 50 capital companies were presented here. Guests could get acquainted with furniture, textiles, unusual ceramics and other interior items of brands participating in the Made in Moscow project. The stand also integrated solutions of technology companies – representatives of the Moscow Innovation Cluster.

    You can see the catalogues of all seasons of the Moscow Interior and Design Week on the project website.

    The exhibition has been one of the drivers of the Moscow market development since its first holding in 2022. The city provides comprehensive support to entrepreneurs: it provides various support measures, organizes special exhibitions and other events. Events such as Moscow Interior and Design Week contribute to the further development of the industry. The number of Moscow companies in this segment increased by 18.5 percent from 2021 to May 2025, reaching 21.5 thousand organizations.

    The total revenue of exhibiting companies from Moscow increased by 20 percent per year from 2021 to 2024, while the capital’s interior and design market grew by 13 percent per year. The number of employees of such exhibitors increased by 6.3 percent per year during this time, and the number of employees of all city organizations in this area grew by 2.9 percent per year.

    The exhibition is held twice a year and has already become a platform for Muscovites and guests of the capital to get acquainted with a large number of companies from all over the country. Independent selection of participants by an expert council allows the most interesting products to be presented and provides access to a wide audience and market even for young and small brands.

    In addition to domestic brands, visitors could get acquainted with the products and solutions of 46 companies and designers from 15 countries. For example, representatives of China and the UAE participated in the exhibition with their national stands this year. The Celestial Empire brought together the works of famous designers that reflected the connection of man with the surrounding world. The stand of the United Arab Emirates presented an exclusive exposition emphasizing the rethinking of the region’s rich craft heritage through modern design solutions.

    The exhibition also featured a special international session. It brought together 50 export-oriented Russian enterprises, including representatives of the Moscow Export Center programs and participants of the Moscow Interior and Design Week, as well as 10 importing companies from Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Morocco. The event allowed for establishing trade relations with international partners, concluding profitable export contracts and agreeing on the implementation of large-scale joint projects.

    Sergei Sobyanin told how Moscow helps the capital’s business develop

    Traditionally, the platform featured well-known entrepreneurs, designers and architects — more than 180 experts developing the industry. World-class stars also took part: architect Hussam Shakuf, who worked for more than 17 years in the famous architectural firm of Zaha Hadid, as well as Reem bin Karam, one of the world’s leading experts in the field of cultural entrepreneurship and women’s leadership.

    In the consultation area, guests could get advice on home improvement from professional designers, as well as take part in master classes, listen to lectures by Russian and international stars of the industry, sign up for a tour of the Moscow Design Museum exhibition or a real production facility with the support of the Day Without Turnstiles project. In addition, this season, for the first time, a special loyalty program was launched, which will be available after the event. It allows [to purchase products from participating companies at a discount.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154390073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Cardano Foundation and Switzerland for UNHCR cooperate in Industry-First ETP That Funds Refugee Support Through Crypto Staking, Geneva, Switzerland

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

     With over 100 million people forcibly displaced worldwide, the humanitarian system faces unprecedented challenges in funding essential services. In response, an innovative financial product—the Cardano Impact for UNHCR ETP (CASL)—launches on 28 May on the SIX Swiss Exchange, creating a bridge between institutional capital and humanitarian relief through blockchain.

    The CASL ETP (Ticker: CASL | ISIN: CH1327686056) is the first-ever regulated exchange-traded product that converts blockchain staking rewards into continuous funding for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. The product offers investors exposure to Cardano (ADA), while automatically donating 100% of staking rewards—not principal—toward field operations supporting refugees across over 135 countries, including Syria, Sudan, and Venezuela.

    “This launch represents a world first in sustainable finance and humanitarian aid,” said Oliver Anselmo, Deputy Executive Director at Switzerland for UNHCR. “It transforms passive investment returns into a recurring, scalable stream of support for people who have lost everything.”

    Quantifying Impact

    Based on current ADA staking yields (~3.5% APY) and projections of initial fund inflows, the CASL ETP could generate $1.5 to $2 million in annual donations with $50 million in assets under management—funds that directly power UNHCR’s emergency response and innovative refugee programs.

    Industry-First Technical and Regulatory Design

    Structured by issuance.swiss AG and operated under Swiss regulatory approval, CASL is physically backed 1:1 by ADA, with a 1.5% management fee. It bypasses crypto-native complexities through a familiar ISIN, allowing institutions to invest using USD, EUR, or CHF—with no wallets, private keys, or blockchain knowledge required.

    “CASL is an industry-first that merges full regulatory compliance, institutional-grade staking infrastructure, and humanitarian aid in one product,” said Laurent Kssis, CIO at issuance.swiss AG. “We’ve eliminated the operational barriers—from fiat on-ramps to staking—and embedded impact at the protocol layer of capital allocation.”

    Powered by Trusted Partners

    Custody and staking are operated by Taurus SA, a FINMA-regulated securities firm and leader in digital asset infrastructure, based in Geneva, Switzerland. ADA contributions to the underlying stake pool include 3.5 million ADA from the Cardano Foundation, alongside more than 200 delegations of holdings from the HOSKY team and their fans for a total amount of 6.3 million ADA, underscoring community trust and sustainability.

    “Our infrastructure secures the ADA and operates staking pools to maximize both yield and impact,” said Lamine Brahimi, Managing Partner at Taurus SA. “We are extremely proud to extend our partnership with UNHCR for Switzerland and with Cardano, and to demonstrate how innovation can be a force for good by providing support to forcibly displaced people.”

    Why Cardano? Why UNHCR?

    “From funding streams to digital ID, one thing is clear: blockchain has the potential to be a great leveler, providing innovative ways of solving some of the administrative problems that make seeking refuge even harder. With the technology and use cases now at a stage where they have the capacity to substantially facilitate daily operations, the widespread adoption of humanitarian blockchain solutions must become one of the industry’s key priorities,” said Frederik Gregaard, CEO of the Cardano Foundation.

    Cardano currently ranks among the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market cap (~$22 billion), with ADA priced at approximately $0.62 as of May 2025. Its proof-of-stake consensus, peer-reviewed architecture, and environmental efficiency make it uniquely suited for mission-critical applications.

    The Bigger Picture

    This model is already drawing attention from other humanitarian and philanthropic entities.

    “We believe this model can and should be replicated,” added Pavel Izmaylov, CEO of issuance.swiss AG. “Discussions are already underway to launch additional impact-linked ETPs supporting education, climate resilience, and public health within the next 6 to 12 months.”

    An early institutional investor Florian Volery, Liqwid.Finance, commented: “CASL gives us ADA exposure, recently included in US Fed Reserve digital assets and the only blockchain never experienced any technical outage, while automatically contributing to one of the most urgent causes of our time—it’s smart capital at its best.”

    Product Summary

    • Name: Cardano Impact for UNHCR ETP (CASL)
    • Ticker: CASL | ISIN: CH1327686056
    • Launch Date: May 28, 2025
    • Exchange: SIX Swiss Exchange
    • Management Fee: 1.5%
    • Custodian & Staking Operator: Taurus SA
    • Currency: USD / EUR / CHF
    • Underlying: 100% physically backed Cardano (ADA)

    About UNHCR
     UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, protects and assists people forced to flee due to conflict and persecution. Operating in over 135 countries, UNHCR delivers life-saving aid and solutions to refugees and stateless people.

    About Switzerland for UNHCR

    Switzerland for UNHCR is the national partner of the UN Refugee Agency for Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Its mission is to support UNHCR’s mission by mobilizing essential resources and raising awareness on behalf of those who are forced to flee.   

    About Cardano Foundation
     The Cardano Foundation advances Cardano’s global adoption and is committed to unlocking blockchain for good. It stewards the development of the Cardano protocol and ecosystem.

    About issuance.swiss AG
     issuance.swiss AG is a Swiss-based issuer of regulated digital asset products, pioneering accessible, transparent, and socially impactful investment structures.

    About Taurus SA
     Taurus SA provides regulated infrastructure for digital assets, enabling custody, tokenization, and staking services trusted by top-tier institutions.

    For media inquiries:
     press@issuance.swiss
     media@cardanofoundation.org
     UNHCR/Switzerland for UNHCR: alvaro.cosi@unrefugees.ch
    press@taurusgroup.ch

    Disclaimer 
    This document and the information contained herein are not for distribution in or into (directly or indirectly) the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the distribution or release would be unlawful. This document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in or into the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan.This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase, any securities in the United States. This document is only being distributed to and is only directed at: (i) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”); or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”); or (iv) persons who fall within Article 43(2) of the Order, including existing members and creditors of the Company or (v) any other persons to whom this document can be lawfully distributed in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. The approval of the 2024 Base Prospectus (EU) should not be understood as an endorsement by the FMA of the securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. Eligible potential investors should read the 2024 Base Prospectus (EU) and the relevant Final Terms before making an investment decision in order to understand the potential risks associated with the decision to invest in the securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: 10 years ago Kenya set out to fix gender gaps in education – what’s working and what still needs to be done

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Benta A. Abuya, Research Scientist, African Population and Health Research Center

    The Kenyan government launched a big attempt in 2015 to promote gender equality in and through the education sector. This was guided by principles of equal participation and inclusion of women and men, and girls and boys in national development.

    The Education and Training Sector Gender Policy aligned with national, regional and global commitments. This included the constitution, and Sustainable Development Goals 4 on quality education and 5 on gender equality.

    Years later, however, it became clear that the government wasn’t achieving some policy’s objectives. Gaps remained in reducing gender inequalities in access, participation and achievement at all levels of education.

    The government decided to review the causes of these challenges and what could be done differently.

    This led to a two-year joint study in partnership with the African Population and Health Research Center. The study began in 2022. Its overall objective was to provide evidence for action on mainstreaming gender issues in basic education in Kenya. Gender mainstreaming generally refers to being sensitive to gender when developing policies and curricula, governing schools, teaching and using learning materials.

    The study specifically aimed to:

    1. examine how the teacher-training curriculum prepares teachers to implement gender mainstreaming strategies within the basic education sector

    2. examine how gender mainstreaming is practised in classrooms during teaching and learning

    3. assess the relationship between teaching practices and students’ attendance, choice of subjects and academic performance

    4. evaluate the availability of institutional policies, practices and guidelines to mainstream gender issues and the extent to which they influence gender mainstreaming in education.

    I’m a gender and education researcher and was part of the team from the African Population and Health Research Center that collected data for the policy review. This data came from 10 counties with high child poverty rates and urban informal settlements. These indicators highlight an inability to access one or more basic needs or services.

    The study involved teacher trainers and trainees. We also spoke to education officials, and learners in primary and secondary schools. We carried out classroom observations, knowledge and attitude surveys, questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions.



    Read more:
    6 priorities to get Kenya’s curriculum back on track – or risk excluding many children from education

    The data showed gaps in teacher training, as well as institutional and teaching practices at the basic education level. Policy wasn’t being carried through in practice.

    The gaps

    Our study found that Kenya needs to review its teacher education curriculum to make it more gender responsive.

    Teachers also need more training to follow practices that are gender responsive. These practices include extending positive reinforcement to girls and boys, maintaining eye contact and allowing learners to speak without interruption.

    Deliberate steps should be taken to ensure that schools and teacher training colleges are gender inclusive in their practices, guidelines and programmes.

    More specifically, our study found:

    • Teacher trainees had a relatively good understanding of gender-equitable teaching and learning practices. But there was a need to place greater importance on this in lesson planning and in supporting girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

    • Gender mainstreaming is not built into the teacher training curriculum. It isn’t taught as a standalone unit. Teacher trainees learnt about it mainly from general courses, such as child development and psychology, or private training. And teacher trainees were unaware that they were being tested on this.

    • There were no significant gender differences in how teachers in pre-primary and primary school taught boys and girls. At the secondary level, however, teachers engaged boys more than girls during during literacy and STEM lessons.

    • At both primary and secondary levels, gender-equitable practices positively influenced learning outcomes in English and STEM subjects. These practices improved academic performances in English at the primary level. They led to improvements in biology, English, mathematics and physics at the secondary level.

    • The odds of school attendance increased if teachers treated boys and girls in equitable ways.

    • The odds of boys selecting chemistry and physics at the secondary level increased if the teacher of the subject was approachable and if the subject was considered applicable to future careers.

    • More than 40% of primary and secondary schools didn’t have guidelines on sexual harassment and gender-based violence for teachers and students. And most of the schools that said they had these guidelines couldn’t provide them to the research team. These guidelines help mainstream gender issues in schools and communities.

    What next

    To advance gender equality, Kenya must move beyond policy awareness. It must be more responsive to gender in teacher training, classroom practices and institutional leadership.

    Our study recommends:

    • creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where both boys and girls feel valued, capable, and motivated to learn

    • teaching gender mainstreaming as a standalone unit, or integrating it into the teaching methodology

    • coaching, mentorship and modelling of best practices to trainee teachers

    • financial support for gender mainstreaming in all areas of teacher education

    • encouraging girls to pursue STEM subjects and careers at an early age through formal mentorship programmes

    • encouraging and empowering women teachers and parents to take up leadership positions in schools to provide role models for students.



    Read more:
    Kenya’s decision to make maths optional in high school is a bad idea – what should happen instead

    Our findings offer a critical evidence base for the education ministry and other stakeholders. They should put accountability mechanisms in place.

    Only through sustained, data-driven action can Kenya achieve a truly inclusive and equitable education system.

    Benta A. Abuya 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. 10 years ago Kenya set out to fix gender gaps in education – what’s working and what still needs to be done – https://theconversation.com/10-years-ago-kenya-set-out-to-fix-gender-gaps-in-education-whats-working-and-what-still-needs-to-be-done-255400

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –