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Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI: VAALCO Energy, Inc. to Present Live Via Investor Meet Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VAALCO Energy, Inc. (NYSE: EGY; LSE: EGY) (“Vaalco” or the “Company”) announced that George Maxwell, Chief Executive Officer, and Ron Bain, Chief Financial Officer, will provide a live presentation via Investor Meet Company Thursday, April 17, 2025. The presentation will begin at 10 a.m. British Summer Time (4 a.m. Central Time).

    The presentation is open to all existing and potential shareholders. Questions can be submitted pre-event via your Investor Meet Company dashboard up until April 16, 2025, 09:00 BST (3 a.m. Central Time), or at any time during the live presentation.

    Investors can sign up to Investor Meet Company for free and add to meet Vaalco via:
    https://www.investormeetcompany.com/vaalco-energy-inc/register-investor. Interested parties can also access the presentation on Vaalco’s web site, www.vaalco.com, under the “Investors” tab. An archived version will be available on Vaalco’s web site after the presentation.

    Investors who already follow Vaalco on the Investor Meet Company platform will automatically be invited.

    About Vaalco
    Vaalco, founded in 1985 and incorporated under the laws of Delaware, is a Houston, Texas, USA based, independent energy company with a diverse portfolio of production, development and exploration assets across Gabon, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria and Canada.

    For Further Information

       
    Vaalco Energy, Inc. (General and Investor Enquiries) +00 1 713 543 3422
    Website: www.vaalco.com
       
    Al Petrie Advisors (US Investor Relations) +00 1 713 543 3422
    Al Petrie / Chris Delange  
       
    Buchanan (UK Financial PR) +44 (0) 207 466 5000
    Ben Romney / Barry Archer Vaalco@buchanan.uk.com
       

    Forward Looking Statements
    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created by those laws and other applicable laws and may also include “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities law (collectively “forward-looking statements”). Where a forward-looking statement expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “aim,” “target,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “may,” “likely,” “plan” and “probably” or similar words may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements in this press release may include, but are not limited to, statements relating to (i) estimates of future drilling, production, sales and costs of acquiring crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids; (ii) expectations regarding Vaalco’s ability to effectively integrate assets and properties it has acquired as a result of the Svenska acquisition into its operations; (iii) expectations regarding future exploration and the development, growth and potential of Vaalco’s operations, project pipeline and investments, and schedule and anticipated benefits to be derived therefrom; (iv) expectations regarding future acquisitions, investments or divestitures; (v) expectations of future dividends; (vi) expectations of future balance sheet strength; and (vii) expectations of future equity and enterprise value.

    Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks relating to any unforeseen liabilities of Vaalco; the ability to generate cash flows that, along with cash on hand, will be sufficient to support operations and cash requirements; risks relating to the timing and costs of completion for scheduled maintenance of the FPSO servicing the Baobab field; and the risks described under the caption “Risk Factors” in Vaalco’s 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 17, 2025 and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security – B10-0211/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Hilde Vautmans, Abir Al‑Sahlani, Dan Barna, Urmas Paet, Yvan Verougstraete
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    B10‑0211/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to previous resolutions on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in particular its resolution of 13 February 2025 on the escalation of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo[1],

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the situation in the eastern DRC continues to deteriorate significantly, with escalating violence, persistent violations of human rights by armed groups, mass displacement, attacks on civilians and alarming humanitarian conditions;

    B. whereas on 18 March 2025 Presidents Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and Paul Kagame of Rwanda agreed on an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in their first face-to-face meeting in over a year, facilitated by Qatari mediators in Doha;

    C. whereas the armed group M23, backed by Rwanda, has intensified attacks in North Kivu, and on 19 March 2025 it seized the mineral-rich town of Walikale, defying the ceasefire;

    D. whereas over 7 million people are currently displaced because of ongoing conflicts, with limited access to food, water, healthcare and essential services;

    E. whereas there has been an alarming increase in targeted attacks against civilians, including, but not limited to, Christians, particularly in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces, perpetrated by extremist groups; whereas these attacks, including church bombings, killings and abductions, undermine religious freedom and exacerbate intercommunal tensions; whereas the right to freedom of religion and belief is a fundamental human right and must be protected given the high level of violence and persecution;

    F. whereas women and girls in the DRC face increased levels of sexual and gender-based violence, resulting in there being one victim of rape every four minutes; whereas the staff of Panzi Hospital in Bukavu, which receives many survivors of sexual violence, is alarmed about the deteriorating security situation in the area and about the security of the staff and patients in Panzi Hospital itself;

    G. whereas the illegal exploitation of mineral resources continues to fuel conflict in the region, necessitating stronger international oversight and responsible sourcing policies;

    H. whereas in February 2025, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi proposed a deal to US President Donald Trump, in which he seeks military support against M23 rebels in exchange for access to the DRC’s vast mineral resources;

    I. whereas the EU has committed to supporting stability in the DRC through diplomatic engagement, financial assistance and targeted sanctions against individuals responsible for violence and human rights abuses;

    J. whereas on 17 March 2025, the EU imposed sanctions on nine individuals and one entity responsible for acts that constitute serious human rights violations and abuses in the DRC, but further diplomatic and economic measures may be necessary;

    K. whereas the Council renewed the EU’s financial support for the deployment of Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) troops in Mozambique under the European Peace Facility (EPF); whereas the head of these forces was previously deployed in the eastern DRC to support abuses committed by M23, giving rise to serious doubt as to whether there are sufficient safeguards attached to EPF support, including effective vetting and other human rights requirements;

    1. Expresses deep concern over the worsening security and humanitarian crisis in the eastern DRC;

    2. Strongly condemns the occupation of Goma and other territories in the eastern DRC by M23 and the RDF as an unacceptable breach of the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity; urges the Rwandan Government to withdraw its troops from DRC territory, the presence of whom is a clear violation of international law and the UN Charter, and cease cooperation with the M23 rebels; demands that Rwanda and all other potential state actors in the region cease their support for M23;

    3. Calls for an immediate and effective ceasefire, and for the full implementation of diplomatic agreements, including the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes;

    4. Is appalled by the shocking use of sexual violence against women and girls as a tool of repression and a weapon of war in the eastern DRC, and by the unacceptable recruitment of child soldiers by the various rebel groups; demands that these matters be addressed by the international community without delay; reiterates strongly that any attack against UN-mandated forces is inexcusable and might be considered a war crime;

    5. Calls for an immediate end to the violence, particularly the mass killings and the use of rape as a strategic weapon of war; calls on the DRC and Rwanda to investigate and appropriately prosecute those responsible for war crimes, including targeted attacks against Christian and all other religious communities and places of worship;

    6. Calls on the DRC Government to implement security sector reforms, intensify its efforts to prevent further atrocities against civilians and end its support for and collaboration with abusive armed groups, including ensuring the full protection of religious communities and their places of worship; urges the DRC Government to ensure accountability for human rights violations and prosecute those responsible for attacks; urges the DRC Government to address and prevent hate speech and incitement, including the involvement of officials in such acts, and hate-motivated acts of violence or intimidation;

    7. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to increase humanitarian aid to address the urgent needs of displaced persons and vulnerable communities in the DRC, ensuring safe access to food, medical care and shelter;

    8. Supports the imposition of further targeted EU sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for financing or engaging in violence, human rights abuses and resource exploitation; calls on the Council to implement and expand these sanctions by targeting all responsible entities and individuals, including Major General Emmy K. Ruvusha, Commander of the Rwanda Security Forces, identified in the June 2023 report of the UN Group of Experts;

    9. Calls for stricter enforcement of EU regulations on conflict minerals to prevent illicit trade from fuelling armed groups in the DRC; calls once again on the Commission to suspend the Memorandum of Understanding with Rwanda and to suspend its support for all projects associated with the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board, as such projects could lead to direct or indirect support for human rights violations in the eastern DRC; requests that the Commission share detailed mapping of current projects with Rwandan authorities and its assessment of whether they may contribute to or fail to address human rights violations either inside Rwanda or in the DRC;

    10. Calls on the Commission and the European External Action Service to intensify diplomatic efforts by working closely with regional partners, including the African Union, the East African Community and the United Nations, in order to step up diplomatic efforts to achieve a sustainable resolution to the conflict;

    11. Expresses concern over reports of foreign interference exacerbating the conflict and calls for an independent investigation into allegations of external support for armed groups;

    12. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Governments and Parliaments of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the African Union and other relevant international bodies.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security – B10-0217/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0217/2025

    European Parliament resolution on targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), notably that of 13 February 2025 on the escalation of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo[1],

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the situation in the eastern DRC continues to deteriorate sharply; whereas following the advancement of the March 23 Movement (M23) armed rebel group in January 2025, backed by Rwandan forces, and its seizing of Goma and Bukavu, attacks and violence continue to be perpetuated; whereas the M23 is continuing its offensive, notably in North and South Kivu;

    B. whereas in March 2025, President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda issued a joint statement announcing a ceasefire; whereas despite this announcement, the violence continues;

    C. whereas around 100 separate armed groups are estimated to be operating in the eastern DRC; whereas destabilisation in the country is being driven by a series of overlapping issues, including ethnic divisions, clashes between government forces and non-state actors, including those backed by Rwanda, and the exploitation of critical raw materials;

    D. whereas there continue to be a high number of civilian casualties and displaced people; whereas civilians are being attacked indiscriminately, in particular in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri;

    E. whereas the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria – Democratic Republic of the Congo (ISIS-DRC), known as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), attacks civilians in all communities in the DRC; whereas ADF attacks have included targeting churches and religious leaders; whereas Christianity is the majority religion in the DRC; whereas most victims of ADF attacks have been Christian;

    F. whereas the humanitarian situation remains dire; whereas support for shelter, medical supplies, sanitation, water and food continues to be severely lacking in the DRC and neighbouring countries; whereas since January 2025, an estimated 70 000 people have crossed into Burundi to flee the conflict in the DRC;

    G. whereas woman and girls face widespread gender-based and sexual violence, including the use of rape as a weapon of war;

    1. Expresses deep concern at the alarming continuation of violence; deplores the loss of life and the attacks, both indiscriminate and targeted, against civilians;

    2. Underlines the urgent need for the stabilisation of the country and the implementation of an immediate ceasefire; reiterates its call on the M23 to halt its territorial advances and withdraw from the territory of the DRC, and for all parties to observe a cessation of violence;

    3. Urges the DRC authorities to cooperate with international organisations, including the United Nations, to ensure that human rights abuses are investigated and the perpetrators held to account, including those targeting attacks on ethnic and religious communities;

    4. Reiterates its call for all parties, including armed groups operating in the eastern DRC, to allow and facilitate humanitarian access to address the urgent need for essential services in the eastern DRC and neighbouring countries, notably Burundi; emphasises that humanitarian workers must be able to operate safely to deliver life-saving assistance to Congolese civilians; stresses that this is a central obligation under international humanitarian law, and that perpetrators violating these obligations should be held to account;

    5. Deplores the continued sexual and gender-based violence perpetrated against women and girls, in particular the use of rape as a weapon of war; urges the European External Action Service, the Government of the DRC and the international community to increase medical and psychological support for victims, including access to medical abortion care; recalls that sexual violence is a war crime and that those responsible must be held to account;

    6. Underlines that a lasting peace must be found through a return to political processes and cooperation; calls on the Government of the DRC and all armed groups to commit to the Nairobi Process for resumed national dialogue;

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council, the Commission and the President, Government and Parliament of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security – B10-0215/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Lukas Mandl, David McAllister, Andrzej Halicki, Michael Gahler, Sebastião Bugalho, Željana Zovko, François‑Xavier Bellamy, Christophe Gomart, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Andrey Kovatchev, Miriam Lexmann, Rasa Juknevičienė, Antonio López‑Istúriz White
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    B10‑0215/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,
     

    A. whereas the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), affiliated to the Islamic State’s Central Africa Province, have been linked to an attack on the village of Mukondi, in the eastern DRC, in which, according to local authorities, at least 44 civilians were killed; whereas the group claimed 48 attacks in December 2024 alone, killing over 200 people;

    B. whereas the ADF has a long history of committing terrorist attacks in the eastern DRC; whereas the Congolese Catholic Church claims that the ADF is responsible for the deaths of around 6 000 civilians in Beni between 2013 and 2021 and more than 2 000 in Bunia in 2020 alone; whereas between January and June 2024, 639 Christians were killed in the DRC by jihadists and half of them beheaded; whereas many of these attacks directly target the Christian population of these regions; whereas Christians in particular have been deliberately targeted by various extremist or jihadist groups for many years; whereas the Catholic bishops of the DRC spoke out in an April 2021 statement about the threat of the ‘Islamization of the region [North Kivu] as a sort of deeper strategy for a long-term negative influence on the general political situation of the country’;

    C. whereas the ADF officially pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group (ISIS) on 7 November 2019; whereas the UN Group of Experts on the DRC warned in May 2024 that the armed group had established strong networks in prisons, particularly in Kinshasa where ADF detainees were active in recruiting and mobilising combatants and collaborators, using not only ideological means, but also coercion, deception, abduction and financial incentives to attract members and collaborators; whereas the ADF’s attacks need to be seen in the wider African context of a rise in the number of Islamist groups, in particular those affiliated to ISIS, in the Sahel region, the Horn of Africa, Mozambique, Nigeria and the DRC; whereas the ADF has been designated a terrorist group by Uganda and the United States;

    D. whereas the Armed Forces of the DRC have been conducting a joint military offensive, operation Shujaa, with the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces against the ADF and other insurgent forces in the eastern DRC since November 2021; whereas the conflict between the government and M23 rebels could lead to a decrease in the funds, personnel and equipment being allocated to this counter-terrorism operation;

    E. whereas the region has been plagued by decades of cyclical violence, causing a security and humanitarian crisis and leading to the further destabilisation of the country; whereas the conflict between the Government of the DRC, the armed rebel group M23 and other militias has already led to the forceful internal displacement of 4.6 million people in the eastern DRC; whereas the DRC also hosts over 520 000 refugees and asylum seekers from neighbouring countries, while 1.1 million refugees from the DRC are being hosted in neighbouring countries of the region, more than half of them in Uganda;

    F. whereas North Kivu is a resource-rich region, with vast supplies of critical raw materials, including cobalt, gold and tin, which are necessary for the global digital and energy transitions; whereas it is known that the ADF has been relying on, among other sources of financing, the illegal exploitation of these resources to fund their activities; whereas Christians face difficulties and violent attacks from Islamist militants, particularly in the North Kivu province;

    G. whereas the DRC is ranked 35th in the World Watch List and has even risen six places in recent years, with 2024 seeing an escalation in attacks against Christians by the ADF;

    H. whereas owing to the absence of specific laws to protect Christians, Christian women and girls are especially vulnerable to domestic violence, forced marriages, abduction, rape, trafficking and sexual slavery;

    1. Condemns in the strongest terms the terrorist attacks and targeted massacre of Christians carried out by the ADF in the eastern DRC; expresses its solidarity with the families of the victims and with Christian communities;

    2. Strongly condemns the ADF and other rebel groups, such as M23, and their egregious human rights abuses, which amount to crimes against humanity in accordance with the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC); is extremely concerned about this terrorist group’s deliberate targeting of Christians; underlines the fact that there must be no impunity for the perpetrators of these acts and that those responsible should be referred to the ICC; encourages the establishment of an international commission of inquiry to examine the human rights violations committed in the DRC, renewed investigations in North Kivu by the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor and the creation of a special tribunal for atrocity crimes in the DRC, including crimes committed against Christian communities; backs the efforts of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo and the Church of Christ in Congo, which launched the ‘Social pact for peace and coexistence in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Great Lakes Region’ with the aim of restoring peace in the country’s eastern provinces;

    3. Supports the international efforts against the ADF, including the Shujaa counter-terrorism operation carried out jointly by DRC and Ugandan armed forces; encourages the EU Member States to consider ways of contributing to these efforts, including increased efforts to trace and interdict ISIS secret funds held overseas and to trace any raw materials stemming from their illegal exploitation by the ADF; calls for the EU to support the necessary capacity building and expertise to combat ADF ideology and rhetoric, particularly within the Muslim communities of both Uganda and Congo, to prevent recruitment among those communities; requests the application of the EU global human rights sanctions regime to those responsible for planning, ordering or participating in the killing of Christians in the DRC;

    4. Reiterates its full support for the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) in protecting civilians and stabilising the region; urges the EU to cooperate with all actors on the ground, in particular MONUSCO, to ensure the protection of civilians in the eastern DRC; calls on the UN to work towards a stronger mandate for MONUSCO in order to enable peacemaking; calls on the UN to ensure the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law;

    5. Confirms its commitment to freedom of thought, conscience and religion as a fundamental human right guaranteed by international legal instruments to which most of the world’s countries have committed, and as a right that is recognised as having universal value and is enshrined in the Congolese constitution;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Government and Parliament of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the African Union, the secretariats of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Southern African Development Community and the East African Community, and other relevant international bodies.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security – B10-0213/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Pierre‑Romain Thionnet, Matthieu Valet, Susanna Ceccardi, Silvia Sardone, Roberto Vannacci, Hermann Tertsch, Jorge Martín Frías
    on behalf of the PfE Group

    B10‑0213/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly those of 18 January 2018[1], 24 November 2022[2] and 13 February 2025[3], addressing ongoing conflicts and the humanitarian situation in the region,

    – having regard to the statement by High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas on behalf of the EU of 25 January 2025 on the latest escalation in eastern DRC, which concerned the security situation in Kivu,

    – having regard to the Council conclusions of 9 December 2019 on the Democratic Republic of the Congo, outlining the EU’s strategic approach to the DRC,

    – having regard to the UN Security Council Resolutions on the DRC, in particular Resolution 2765 (2024) adopted on 20 December 2024, which extended the mandate of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) until 20 December 2025, and Resolution 2688 (2023) of 27 June 2023, which renewed the sanctions regime against the DRC until 1 July 2024,

    – having regard to the Partnership Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Members of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States, of the other part[4],

    – having regard to the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region, signed in Addis Ababa on 24 February 2013 under the auspices of the African Union and the UN, which aimed to address the root causes of instability in the DRC by promoting regional cooperation, respect for state sovereignty and the ending of external support to armed groups,

    – having regard to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which was adopted on 27 June 1981 and entered into force on 21 October 1986,

    – having regard to the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which entered into force on 18 February 2006,

    – having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the UN Charter,

    – having regard to Report S/2024/432 of 4 June 2024 by the Group of Experts on the DRC to the President of the UN Security Council,

    – having regard to Report S/2024/969 of 27 December 2024 by the Group of Experts on the DRC to the President of the UN Security Council,

    – having regard to the UN Security Council press statement of 26 January 2025 on the situation in the DRC, reaffirming the international community’s commitment to the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,

    – having regard to the memorandum of understanding (MoU) on sustainable and resilient value chains for critical raw materials, signed on 19 February 2024 by the EU and Rwanda,

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas on 14 February 2025, 70 Christians were found beheaded in a church in Kasanga in the eastern DRC; whereas the perpetrators were militants from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) radical Islamist group, with proven ties to the so-called Islamic State terrorist organisation;

    B. whereas for decades, the DRC has been plagued by ongoing armed conflicts fuelled by local, regional and international actors, particularly in the eastern regions of North Kivu and South Kivu;

    C. whereas since 1998, the conflict in the DRC has claimed the lives of more than 5.4 million people, most of them civilians, making it the deadliest conflict since the Second World War;

    D. whereas a significant proportion of the conflict’s victims are children, who have endured violence and suffered from malnutrition and preventable diseases exacerbated by the ongoing instability; whereas many schools have been shuttered, damaged or destroyed, or turned into shelters; whereas 795 000 children are now being deprived of education; whereas more than 1.6 million children in the eastern DRC no longer attend school;

    E. whereas to this day, people in the DRC continue to face violence, attacks, killings and numerous human rights violations committed by national and foreign armed groups, particularly in the east of the country;

    F. whereas the Congo River Alliance and its principal member, the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group, have recently intensified hostilities in North Kivu and South Kivu with support from Rwanda, leading to the seizure of Goma, the capital of North Kivu and of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, in direct violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC;

    G. whereas targeted attacks on Christian communities in the DRC have intensified; whereas the brutal massacre of 13 February 2025, perpetrated by the ADF radical Islamist group, is part of a series of assaults specifically targeting Christian communities in the region;

    H. whereas since Musa Seka Baluku took leadership of the ADF in 2015, the group has radically changed its ideological orientation; whereas in 2019, the ADF pledged allegiance to Islamic State, becoming its branch in central Africa (Islamic State’s Central African Province – ISCAP);

    I. whereas MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, has been present in the country for over two decades, yet continues to struggle to prevent widespread violence and human rights violations;

    J. whereas the situation the Great Lakes region remains highly fragile, and a large-scale conflict between the DRC and Rwanda would not only cause immense suffering to civilians in the DRC but would also destabilise the entire central and eastern African region, and would facilitate the spread of radical Islam;

    K. whereas in its resolution of 13 February 2025, Parliament called for the suspension of the EU-Rwanda MoU on critical raw materials; whereas the Commission is undertaking a review of the MoU;

    1. Strongly condemns the barbaric crimes committed against Christians in the DRC, including summary executions, beheadings, abductions, torture and targeted attacks on churches and Christian communities; specifically condemns the 13 February 2025 massacre in Kasanga, where 70 Christians were beheaded in a Protestant church by the ADF, a radical Islamist group;

    2. Stresses that Christians are the most persecuted religious group in the world and face increasing violence, discrimination and oppression in many regions; further stresses the need for urgent international action to protect their rights, ensure their safety and uphold their religious freedom;

    3. Highlights that the Great Lakes region faces a growing and persistent terrorist threat, characterised by the presence of extremist armed groups committing atrocities against civilians, including targeted attacks on Christian communities; notes that, in addition to the threat posed by the ADF, which is affiliated with Islamic State, several terrorist cells linked to al-Qaeda are also operating in the region; underscores that these groups maintain ties with transnational jihadist networks; stresses the need for a coordinated regional and international response to combat terrorism, while fully respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the DRC;

    4. Underlines that radical Islamist insurgency is causing growing concern in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, Sudan, Nigeria and Mozambique, as well as in the Great Lakes region; further notes that 16 million Christians in sub-Saharan Africa have been forcibly displaced by violence, with many of them facing persecution because of their faith;

    5. Reaffirms its unwavering support for stability in the region and calls for full respect for the territorial integrity of the DRC; emphasises the importance of respecting international borders and national sovereignty; condemns any actions that undermine these principles;

    6. Emphasises that decades of conflict, lack of governmental authority and negligence have created a serious security vacuum, fostering the growth of armed groups, among them those responsible for the persecution of Christians in the region; highlights that the forced displacement of certain Christian populations exacerbates the insecurity and persecution faced by these communities;

    7. Strongly condemns the atrocities committed by M23, which have led to a further deterioration of the security situation in the DRC, widening the possibilities for actions by extremist groups;

    8. Reiterates the call made in its resolution of 13 February 2025 for military aid to Rwanda to be frozen as long as its support for M23 persists; notes that no measures have yet been taken by the Commission in response to Parliament’s resolution; notes that the Commission has started reviewing the EU-Rwanda MoU on critical raw materials given Rwanda’s role in destabilising the DRC; calls on the Commission to present the results of this review to Parliament as soon as they are available;

    9. Calls on the Commission and the African Union to take appropriate measures to foster security and peace in the Great Lakes region, in coordination with regional actors;

    10. Further urges measures to foster good governance, combat corruption and improve the capacities of security forces in the DRC, in order to increase stability and human security in the eastern DRC, protect civilians, combat armed groups and stabilise the conflict zone;

    11. Reiterates its call for a reform of MONUSCO to enhance its effectiveness in protecting civilians, particularly Christians facing attacks by radical extremist Islamist groups, as well as in combating other armed groups; stresses the need to strengthen its intervention capabilities and adapt its mandate to address emerging threats, particularly from terrorist groups;

    12. Calls on the Commission, the European External Action Service and the Member States to systematically include, in the their diplomatic engagement, dialogue on the protection of persecuted religious communities, particularly Christians;

    13. Urges partner countries to take effective measures to combat religious extremism, as well as to counter radical Islamist insurgency;

    14. Reaffirms its support for an African-led peace process to resolve the conflict in the eastern DRC; urges all parties to return to negotiations; calls on all sides to engage in a constructive dialogue for a lasting and peaceful resolution, in line with the African Union Peace and Security Council communiqué of its 1256th Emergency Ministerial meeting, held on 28 January 2025;

    15. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the United Nations Security Council, the governments and parliaments of the DRC and Rwanda, and the African Union and its institutions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN/ANGELUS – Pope Francis: “Lent, a time of healing. I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Sunday, 30 March 2025

    Vatican Media

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – “Let us live this Lent as a time of healing, all the more as it is the Jubilee. I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body,” said Pope Francis in the text published by the Vatican for the midday prayer on the fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare).In his commentary on the parable of the Prodigal Son, the Bishop of Rome notes that with this story, Jesus reveals “the heart of God”: “always merciful towards all,” “he heals our wounds so that we can love each other as brothers.”Hence, heartfelt thanks to “all those who, in the image of the Saviour, are instruments of healing for their neighbour with their word and their knowledge, with kindness and with prayer. Frailty and illness are experiences we all have in common; all the more, however, we are brothers in the salvation Christ has given us.””Trusting in the mercy of God the Father,” Pope Francis said, “we continue to pray for peace: in martyred Ukraine, in Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Myanmar, which is also suffering so much because of the earthquake.” In his message, the Pope also expressed his concern about the situation in South Sudan: “I renew my heartfelt appeal to all leaders to do their utmost to lower the tension in the country. We must put aside our differences and, with courage and responsibility, sit around a table and engage in constructive dialogue. Only in this way will it be possible to alleviate the suffering of the beloved South Sudanese people and to build a future of peace and stability.”And in Sudan, “the war continues to claim innocent victims. I urge the parties concerned in the conflict,” the Pope emphasized, “to put the safeguarding of the lives of their civilian brothers and sisters first; and I hope that new negotiations will begin as soon as possible, capable of securing a lasting solution to the crisis. May the international community increase its efforts to address the appalling humanitarian catastrophe.””Thanks be to God, there are also positive events,” the Pope concluded: “I cite as an example the ratification of the Agreement on the demarcation of the border between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, which is an excellent diplomatic achievement. I encourage both countries to continue on this path.””May Mary, Mother of Mercy, help the human family to be reconciled in peace,” we read at the end of the Pontiff’s text. (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 30/3/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Angelus of the Fourth Sunday of Lent

    Source: The Holy See

    The following is the text prepared by the Holy Father Francis for the Angelus of this fourth Sunday of Lent:

    Text prepared by the Holy Father
    Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Sunday!
    In today’s Gospel (Lk 15:1-3, 11-32) Jesus notices that the Pharisees are scandalised and murmur behind His back, instead of being happy because sinners come to Him. So Jesus tells them about a father who has two sons: one leaves home, but then, having been reduced to poverty, he returns and is welcomed with joy. The other, the ‘obedient’ son, is indignant at his father and does not want to enter the feast. This is how Jesus reveals the heart of God: He is always merciful towards all; he heals our wounds so that we can love each other as brothers.
    Dearest friends, let us live this Lent as a time of healing, all the more as it is the Jubilee. I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body. That is why I give heartfelt thanks to all those who, in the image of the Saviour, are instruments of healing for their neighbour with their word and their knowledge, with kindness and with prayer. Frailty and illness are experiences we all have in common; all the more, however, we are brothers in the salvation Christ has given us.
    Trusting in the mercy of God the Father, we continue to pray for peace: in martyred Ukraine, in Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Myanmar, which is also suffering so much because of the earthquake.
    I am following the situation in South Sudan with concern. I renew my heartfelt appeal to all leaders to do their utmost to lower the tension in the country. We must put aside our differences and, with courage and responsibility, sit around a table and engage in constructive dialogue. Only in this way will it be possible to alleviate the suffering of the beloved South Sudanese people and to build a future of peace and stability.
    And in Sudan, the war continues to claim innocent victims.I urge the parties concerned in the conflict to put the safeguarding of the lives of their civilian brothers and sisters first; and I hope that new negotiations will begin as soon as possible, capable of securing a lasting solution to the crisis. May the international community increase its efforts to address the appalling humanitarian catastrophe.
    Thanks be to God, there are also positive events: for example, the ratification of the Agreement on the demarcation of the border between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, which is an excellent diplomatic achievement.I encourage both countries to continue on this path.
    May Mary, Mother of Mercy, help the human family to be reconciled in peace.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Kung fu master from Cameroon wants Chinese culture to ‘light up’ lives

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Fabrice Mba’s passion for Chinese culture and martial arts budded in the southern Cameroon town of Sangmelima, where he grew up watching kung fu movies.

    Mba (right, front) instructs a young man in martial arts movements in Yaounde, capital of Cameroon. [Photo provided to China Daily]

    His elder brother was a projectionist and as a youngster, Mba often helped him sweep the theater.

    For the first time, he saw Shaolin monks on the screen. “I discovered kung fu and Chinese culture. It spoke a lot to me.”

    He and his friends would imitate characters from the movies, but there was no kung fu club to train them.

    When he was 8, he left home with his elder sister to settle in the capital, Yaounde.

    Life was difficult, his father was absent and his mother could not take care of all her children.

    “I grew up on the street,” he says.

    Mba’s life changed with the arrival of a group of Chinese engineers in the 1980s. They built the Yaounde Conference Center, a China-aid project that remains one of the landmarks in Cameroon to this day.

    He and his sister lived not far from the center. One of the Chinese engineers at the construction site was skilled in martial arts and trained regularly, to the amazement of Mba and his friends.

    “I often went with my friends, and we stood and watched (him training) from afar,” he says.

    One day, the man called to them and asked them to take a posture, with knees slightly bent as if holding a tree in their arms. “We stood facing the wall. It hurt,” says Mba.

    After that, he came every morning to learn kung fu. He trained hard, learning the fundamental elements.

    Mba returned briefly to Sangmelima to help his brother, but life was difficult there, and he returned to the capital, where he did odd jobs to survive.

    Fabrice Mba gives a lecture on traditional Chinese medicine to his students at the Confucius Institute at the University of Yaounde II in Soa, Cameroon, in February. [Photo provided to China Daily]

    His life took another turn in 2011, when he encountered a codirector of the Confucius Institute at the University of Yaounde II, during one of his training sessions.

    Mba enrolled in the institute. “That marked a turning point in my kung fu journey.”

    Thanks to a scholarship, he got the opportunity to train in martial arts and traditional Chinese medicine at the Shaolin Temple in Henan province. Between 2015 and 2019, he visited the temple three times.

    Today, Mba is a household name in Cameroon when it comes to kung fu and traditional Chinese medicine.

    “I am president of the Cameroon Kung-Fu Federation. I am a specialist in Chinese traditional medicine. I have been the president of the Association for the Promotion of Chinese Martial Arts since 2010, and I am also a Shaolin cultural ambassador of the time,” says the 46-year-old disciple.

    He runs a program that offers free short-term training in physiotherapy and other subjects to disadvantaged young people to help them find work. He also teaches kung fu in several schools.

    “Be your own boss” is the slogan of his Lotus and Water Lily program.

    “I train them to be morally upright and useful to society,” Mba says. “I went through difficulties as a child, and I do not want them to face the same hardships.”

    Martin Mangwandjo was one of Mba’s students. About seven years ago, Mangwandjo started learning kung fu, which changed his life. Now 29, he also teaches martial arts and runs a kung fu club of his own.

    “Kung fu has enabled me to fit into the social milieu more easily,” says Mangwandjo, who has a congenital disability in his left leg and walks on crutches. “It has given me a winning mentality, because I’ve understood that a man’s strength lies not in his physique, but in his mind.”

    Now, he wants to emulate his mentor and help promote Chinese culture. “I’d like to encourage other people, who have full mobility but still hesitate to take the plunge, telling themselves that these things are not feasible or not attainable, to really encourage them to embrace Chinese culture as I have,” he says.

    Mba’s knowledge and love of Chinese culture is also visible in the literary world. He has published several books of poetry and prose focused on kung fu, Chinese culture and nonviolence.

    “Martial arts is about moral values, peace, respect and life,” he says. “Cameroonians and Africans who read the books always come back to me, and say they now have a better understanding of Chinese people and their culture.”

    Mba says that as more people take up kung fu in Cameroon, he hopes to continue to offer valuable training.

    “Promoting Chinese culture in Cameroon does not mean turning Cameroonians into Chinese,” he says. “It’s like putting Cameroonians in front of a mirror, enabling them to understand that through hard work, they can reshape their mentality, shed poverty, and achieve the results they want, just like the Chinese.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address in the 120th Episode of ‘Mann ki Baat’ on 30.03.2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 11:41AM by PIB Delhi

    My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Today, on a very auspicious day, I have got the opportunity to talk to you through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Today is the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the Chaitra month. Chaitra Navratri is beginning from today. The Indian New Year is also commencing from this day. This is also the start of Vikram Samvat 2082. At the moment, I have many of your letters in front of me. Some are from Bihar, some from Bengal, some from Tamil Nadu & some from Gujarat. In these, people have expressed their inner most thoughts in a very interesting way. Many letters also comprise good wishes and congratulatory messages. But today I feel like sharing some messages with you –

    Prime Minister (Sarvarigu Yugadi Habbadaa Shubhaashegadu) – Happy Ugadi festival to all

     

    The next message is –

    Prime Minister (Andariki Ugadi Shubhaakaankshalu) – Happy Ugadi festival to all

    Now in another letter it is written –

    Prime Minister (Saunsaar Paadvyaachi Parbi) – Greetings on Saunsaar Padwa

    Inscribed in the next message is –

    Prime Minister (Gudipaadwya Nimitta Haardik Shubhechhaa) – Heartiest greetings on the occasion of Gudi Padwa

    One of our friends has written –

    Prime Minister (Illaavarakkum Vishu Aashamshagal) – Happy Vishu festival to all

    Another message is –

    Prime Minister (Inniy Puttaand Nalla Vaazhathukkal) – Happy New Year to all

    Friends, you must have understood that the messages have been sent in different languages. But do you know the reason behind this? This exactly is the special thing that I want to share with you today. New Year is starting today and during the next few days in different states of our country. And all these messages are of greetings for New Year and various festivals. That is why people have sent me greetings in different languages.

    Friends, today the festival of Ugadi is being celebrated with great fervour in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana. Today itself, Gudi Padwa is being celebrated in Maharashtra. In our country full of diversity, during the next few days, in different states, ‘Rongali Bihu’ will be celebrated in Assam, ‘Poila Boishakh’ in Bengal, ‘Navreh’ in Kashmir. Similarly, between 13th and 15th April, there will be joyous celebration of festivals in different parts of the country. There is an atmosphere of excitement about this too and the festival of Eid is also there. That means this whole month is of festivals; of festivities. I extend my greetings to the people of the country on these festivals. These festivals of ours may be in different regions, but they show how unity is woven into the diversity of India. We have to keep reinforcing this spirit of unity, on our way ahead.

    Friends, at the advent of exams, I have a discussion, ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’, with young friends. Now the exams are over. In many schools, preparations are on to resume the classes. After this, summer vacations are also round the corner. Children eagerly await this time of the year. I am reminded of my childhood days when my friends and I used to play one prank or the other all day long. But simultaneously, we used to do something constructive and learn too. Summer days are long and children have a lot to do during the time. This is the time to inculcate a new hobby as well as hone your skills. Today, there is no dearth of platforms for children where they can learn a lot.

    For example, if an organization is running a technology camp, children can learn about open-source software along with developing apps. Be it environment, be it theatre or be it leadership, courses on various subjects are being conducted… they can join them as well. There are many schools that teach speech or drama, which are very useful for children. Apart from all this, you also have the opportunity to join volunteer activities and service endeavours going on at many places during these holidays. I specially urge you regarding such programs… If any organisation, school or social institution or science centre is organising such summer activities, do share it with #MyHolidays. This will help children and their parents from across the country to get information about these easily.

    My young friends, today I would also like to discuss with you the special calendar of MY-Bharat, which has been prepared for this summer vacation. At the moment, copy of this calendar is kept in front of me. I want to share some unique efforts through this calendar. For example, in the study tour of MY-Bharat, you can know how our ‘Jan Aushadhi Kendras’ function. You can undergo a unique experience in the border villages by becoming a part of the vibrant village campaign. Along with this, you can definitely become a part of the cultural and sports activities there. At the same time, by participating in the padyatra on Ambedkar Jayanti, you can also spread awareness about the values ​​of the Constitution.

    I specially urge children and their parents as well to share their holiday experiences with #HolidayMemories. I will try to include your experiences in the upcoming ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

    My dear countrymen, as soon as the summer season approaches, preparations for saving water begin in many cities and villages. In many states, works related to water harvesting and water conservation have gained new momentum. The Ministry of Jal Shakti and numerous NGOs are working in that direction. Thousands of artificial ponds, check dams, borewell recharge and community soak pits are being constructed in the country. Like every year, this time too, preparations have been made on a war footing for the ‘catch the rain’ campaign. This campaign too, is not of the government… but of the society, of the Janata-Janaardan; the people. Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan is also being run to connect more and more people with water conservation. The endeavour is to safely pass on the natural resources that we have, to the next generation.

    Friends, by conserving raindrops, we can save a lot of water from getting wasted. Over the last few years, under this campaign, unprecedented tasks related to water conservation have been undertaken in many parts of the country. I will give you an interesting figure. During the last 7-8 years, over 11 billion cubic metres of water has been conserved through newly built tanks, ponds and other water recharge structures. You must now be wondering how much 11 billion cubic metres of water is?

    Friends, you must have seen the pictures of the water that gets accumulated in the Bhakra Nangal dam. This water forms the Govind Sagar lake. The length of this lake is more than 90 kilometres. Even in this lake, not more than 9-10 billion cubic metres of water can be conserved. Only 9-10 billion cubic metres! And the countrymen, through their tiny efforts, have managed to conserve 11 billion cubic meters of water in different parts of the country – isn’t that a great effort!

    Friends, in this direction, the people of Gadag district of Karnataka have also set an example. A few years ago, the lakes of two villages dried up completely. There came a time when there was no water left even for the animals to drink. Gradually, the lake got covered with weeds and bushes. But some villagers decided to revive the lake and started working on it. And as they say, ‘where there is a will there is a way’. Noticing the efforts of the villagers, the social organizations in the vicinity also joined them. All of them, together cleaned the garbage and mud and after some time the lake area became completely clean. Now people are waiting for the rainy season. Indeed, this is a great example of the ‘catch the rain’ campaign. Friends, you can also join such efforts at the community level. You must make a plan from now on to take this mass movement forward, and you have to remember one more thing. If possible, keep cold water in an earthen pot in front of your house during summers. Keep water for birds on the roof of the house or even in the verandah. See how blessed you will feel after doing this punya karma (pious deed).

    Friends, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ we will now talk about adding wings to your zeal… About displaying passion despite challenges. In the Khelo India Para Games that concluded a few days ago, the players surprised everyone with their dedication and talent, once again. This time more players participated in these games than earlier. This shows how popular Para Sports is becoming. I congratulate all the players participating in the Khelo India Para Games for their sterling efforts. My best wishes for the players of Haryana, Tamil Nadu and UP for securing the first, second and third positions, respectively. During these games, our divyang players also set 18 national records. Out of which 12 were in the name of our women players. Arm wrestler Joby Mathew who won a Gold Medal in this year’s Khelo India Para Games has written a letter to me. I would like to read out an excerpt of his letter. He has written-

    “Winning a medal is very special, but our struggle is not limited to just standing on the podium. We fight a battle every day. Life tests us in many ways… very few people understand our struggle. Despite this, we move forward with courage. We work towards fulfilling our dreams. We believe that we are no less than anyone else.”

    Great! Joby Mathew, you have written an amazing, wonderful letter. I thank you for this letter. I want to tell Joby Mathew and all our Divyang friends that your efforts are a great inspiration for us.

    Friends, another grand event in Delhi has inspired people a lot; filled them with enthusiasm. Fit India Carnival was organized for the first time as an innovative idea. About 25 thousand people from different fields participated in it. All of them had the same goal – to stay fit and spread awareness about fitness. People involved in this event got information related to their health as well as nutrition. I urge you to organize such carnivals in your area as well. MY-Bharat can be of great help to you in this initiative.

    Friends, our indigenous games are now becoming a part of popular culture. You all must be knowing the famous rapper Hanumankind. His new song “Run It Up” is becoming quite famous these days. Our traditional Martial Arts like Kalaripayattu, Gatka and Thang-Ta have been included in it. I congratulate Hanumankind that due to his efforts people of the world are getting to know about our traditional Martial Arts.

    My dear countrymen, every month I get a lot of messages from you on MyGov and NaMo App. Many messages touch my heart, while others fill me with pride. Many a time, these messages provide unique information about our culture and traditions. This time, I want to share with you the message that caught my attention.

    Atharva Kapoor from Varanasi, Aaryash Leekha and Atrey Maan from Mumbai have written about their feelings on my recent visit to Mauritius. They have written that they greatly enjoyed the performance of “Geet Gawai” during this visit. I have felt similar sentiments in many letters received from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. What I felt during the wonderful performance of Geet Gawai in Mauritius was truly amazing.

    Friends, when we stay connected to our roots, no matter how big the storm, it cannot uproot us. Just imagine, about 200 years ago, many people from India went to Mauritius as indentured labourers. Nobody knew what would happen next. But with the passage of time, they settled there. They carved a niche identity for themselves in Mauritius. They preserved their heritage and remained connected to their roots. Mauritius is not the only such example. Last year when I went to Guyana, the Chowtaal performance there impressed me a lot.

    Friends, let me now play an audio for you.

    #(Clip)#

    You must be wondering that this must be about some part of our country. But you will be surprised to know that it is related to Fiji. This is the very popular ‘Phagwa Chowtaal’ of Fiji. This song and music fills everyone with fervour. Let me play another audio for you.

    #(Clip)#

    This audio is the ‘Chowtaal’ of Suriname. The countrymen watching this program on TV can see the President of Suriname and my friend Chan Santokhi Ji enjoying it. This tradition of coming together & singing is also very popular in Trinidad and Tobago. In all these countries, people read Ramayan a lot. Phagwa is very popular here and all Indian festivals are celebrated with full enthusiasm. Many of their songs are in Bhojpuri, Awadhi or mixed language; at times Braj and Maithili are also used. All those who preserve our traditions in these countries deserve appreciation.

    Friends, there are many such organizations in the world, which have been working to conserve Indian culture for years. One such organization is – ‘Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society’. This organization, engaged in preserving Indian dance, music and culture, has completed its glorious 75 years. In the program related to this occasion, the President of Singapore, Shriman Tharman Shanmugaratnam Ji was the Guest of Honour. He praised the efforts of this organization. I extend my best wishes to this team.

    Friends, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, along with the achievements of the countrymen, we often raise social issues as well. Many a time, challenges are also discussed. This time in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I want to talk about a challenge that is directly related to all of us. This challenge is of ‘textile waste’. You must be wondering, what is this new problem of textile waste?

    Actually, textile waste has become a major cause of worry for the whole world. Nowadays, the trend of getting rid of old clothes as soon as possible and buying new ones is increasing all over the world. Have you ever thought what happens to the old clothes that you stop wearing? This becomes textile waste. A lot of global research is being done on this subject. It has come to light in a research that only less than one percent of textile waste is recycled into new clothes… less than even one percent. India is the third country in the world where the maximum textile waste is generated. This means that we also face a huge challenge. But I am happy that many commendable efforts are being undertaken in our country to deal with this challenge. Many Indian start-ups have started working on textile recovery facilities.

    There are many such teams that are also working for the empowerment of our ragpicker brothers and sisters. Many young friends are involved in the efforts towards sustainable fashion. They recycle old clothes and footwear and distribute them to the needy. Many items like decorative pieces, handbags, stationery and toys are being made from textile waste. Many organizations are engaged in popularizing the ‘circular fashion brands’ these days. New rental platforms are also coming up, where designer clothes are available on rent. Some organizations collect old clothes, make them reusable and distribute them to the poor.

    Friends, some cities are also carving a new identity for themselves in dealing with textile waste. Panipat in Haryana is emerging as a global hub for textile recycling. Bengaluru is also creating a distinct identity for itself with innovative tech solutions. More than half of the textile waste is collected here, which is an example for our other cities as well. Similarly, Tirupur in Tamil Nadu is engaged in textile waste management through wastewater treatment and renewable energy.

    My dear countrymen, today along with fitness, count is also playing a big role. Count of the number of steps taken in a day, count of the number of calories eaten in a day, count of the number of calories burnt… amidst all these counts, another countdown is about to begin. The countdown to the International Yoga Day. Now less than 100 days are left for Yoga Day. If you have not yet included yoga in your life, do it now… it is not too late yet. The first International Yoga Day was celebrated 10 years ago on the 21st of June, 2015. Now this day has taken the shape of a grand festival of yoga. This is such a priceless gift from India to humanity, which is going to be very useful for future generation. The theme of Yoga Day 2025 has been kept as ‘Yoga for One Earth One Health’. That is, we wish to make the whole world healthy through yoga.

    Friends, it is a matter of pride for all of us that today the curiosity about our yoga and traditional medicine is rising, all over the world. A large number of youths are adopting yoga and Ayurveda as an excellent medium for wellness.

    For example, there is a South American country, Chile. Ayurveda is rapidly becoming popular there. Last year, during my visit to Brazil, I met the President of Chile. We had a lot of discussions about the popularity of Ayurveda. I have come to know about a team named ‘Somos India’. In Spanish, it means – ‘We are India’. This team has been promoting yoga and Ayurveda for almost a decade. Their focus is on treatment as well as educational programmes. They are also getting information related to Yog and Ayurveda translated into the Spanish language. If we talk about last year alone, about 9 thousand people participated in their myriad events and courses. I congratulate all the people associated with this team for their efforts.

    My dear countrymen, now an interesting yet strange question in ‘Mann Ki Baat’! Have you ever wondered about the journey of flowers? Some flowers that bloom on trees and plants travel to temples. Some flowers beautify the house, some dissolve in perfume and spread fragrance everywhere. But today I will tell you about another journey of flowers. You certainly must have heard about Mahua flowers. People of our villages and especially the tribal community know very well about its importance. The journey of Mahua flowers in many parts of the country has now embarked upon a new path. Cookies are being made from Mahua flowers in Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh. These cookies are becoming very popular due to the efforts of four sisters of Rajakhoh village.

    Observing the passion of these women, a big company trained them to work in a factory. Inspired by them, many women of the village have joined them. The demand for Mahua cookies made by them is increasing rapidly. In the Adilabad district of Telangana also, two sisters have carried out a new experiment with Mahua flowers. They make various types of dishes with them, which people like very much. There is also the sweetness of tribal culture in their dishes.

    Friends, I want to tell you about another wonderful flower and its name is ‘Krishna Kamal’. Have you visited the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat? You will see these Krishna Kamal in large numbers around the Statue of Unity. These flowers captivate the tourists. These Krishna Kamal have become the centre of attraction in Arogya Van, Ekta Nursery, Vishwa Van and Miyawaki forest of Ekta Nagar. Lakhs of Krishna Kamal plants have been planted here in a planned manner. If you look around you, you will notice interesting journeys of flowers. Do write to me about such unique journeys of flowers in your area.

    My dear friends, keep sharing your thoughts, experiences and information with me as always. It is possible that something may be happening around you which may seem normal, but for others that topic might be very interesting and new. We will meet again next month and discuss those things of countrymen which fill us with inspiration. Thank you very much to all of you, Namaskar.

    **********

    MJPS/ST/RT

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Violence and Cholera ravage Northeastern South Sudan, Impacting Western Ethiopia with Outbreak and Refugee Influx – MSF

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    31st March: A humanitarian crisis is rapidly unfolding on both sides of the South Sudan-Ethiopia border, as escalating violence, displacement and a widespread cholera outbreak are pushing communities to the brink, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) warns.

    Clashes between government forces and armed groups, which initially began in Upper Nile State, now risk spreading to other parts of the country, while across the border, Ethiopia’s Gambella region is experiencing the effects of this violence. According to the United Nations, approximately 10,000 displaced people have crossed into Ethiopia since the beginning of March.

    “We have already witnessed how this violence has fuelled the spread of cholera in several areas, but a larger, escalating conflict could push the entire country into an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe,” says Zakaria Mwatia, MSF Head of Mission in South Sudan. “We urgently call on all parties to the conflict to ensure the protection of civilians, healthcare workers, and medical facilities, and to grant unhindered access for humanitarian and medical assistance, in line with international humanitarian law.”

    South Sudan has been grappling with cholera outbreaks across various parts of the country since last year. The latest wave, which began in Upper Nile State, is now spreading further into neighbouring Jonglei state, the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, and across the border into Ethiopia’s Gambella region, where MSF teams are working to treat patients amid the surge in cases.

    In Upper Nile State, MSF is treating those wounded in the violence and supporting cholera treatment facilities in Ulang, Malakal and Renk counties. In Jonglei State, MSF is responding in Lankien as well as in Akobo, where a 100-bed cholera treatment unit set up by MSF in Akobo County Hospital has treated over 300 patients in just over two weeks. MSF is also responding in Pibor town in the Greater Pibor Administrative area. Since the beginning of March, MSF teams have treated over 1,000 cholera patients across South Sudan and received over 30 patients wounded in the violence.

    Ruach Riek Chuol was admitted to MSF hospital in Ulang with injuries he sustained in the violence. “My goods and property for my business were all burned inside the house,” he says. “Everything was destroyed in the fire, including the house where I was.”

    In Ethiopia’s Gambella region, MSF in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has treated over 560 cholera patients since the start of the response in early March, in its Cholera Treatment Centre and units (CTC/CTUs) in Mattar, Moan and Burbeiye with a capacity of 100 beds. MSF is also running oral rehydration points and conducting water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and community-based activities including door-to-door cholera awareness and water purification efforts, reaching over 5,000 people across multiple locations. In addition to cholera treatment, MSF teams have also provided medical care to 160 patients wounded in the clashes in South Sudan.

    “I came here because back home in Nasir, people are being killed,” said a South Sudanese mother who recently arrived in Burbeiye, Ethiopia. “There was nothing to eat, and when we arrived at the areas where we took respite, my kids became sick. There were no health facilities that we could run to.”

    The situation is rapidly deteriorating as thousands fleeing violence in South Sudan are crossing the border to seek safety. In Wanthoa Woreda, a new encampment in Burbeiye has emerged almost overnight, with over 6,500 new arrivals reported by local administrators — many of them women, children, and the elderly, arriving after days of travel.

    “The displaced people are arriving in Gambella with little more than what they can carry,” said Joshua Eckley, MSF Head of Mission in Ethiopia. “Our teams are responding to the cholera outbreak and providing care to those arriving exhausted and in poor condition. There are significant needs, and without additional support, the situation could worsen.”

    This crisis comes at a time when South Sudan and Ethiopia are facing major reductions in donor funding, including the recent USAID cuts. While MSF does not accept funding from the US government, the cuts in the humanitarian and health assistance would severely reduce capacity of other organisations to respond to such crises.

    “In places like Akobo in Jonglei State, the cholera response has been highly impacted by funding cuts, including closure of critical health services,” says Zakaria. “A number of mobile clinics have already shut down following US funding cuts, and some organisations that supported health facilities, including cholera treatment units, have suspended all activities. This is part of a broader trend across the country.”

    The healthcare system in South Sudan suffers from chronic underfunding, shortages of skilled health staff, medicines and supplies, and has limited capacity to respond to emergencies. The country, already struggling to meet its own medical and humanitarian needs, is further burdened by the arrival of over one million people fleeing war in neighbouring Sudan. Urgent support is needed to provide safe water, implement widespread cholera vaccination campaigns, and reinforce treatment capacity for both cholera patients and trauma cases.

    “Disruptions in cholera treatment services, combined with reduced actors’ capacity to support oral vaccination campaigns, heighten the risk of further spread. We urge donors to allocate emergency funds for emergency response in South Sudan and neighbouring Ethiopia amid this escalating crisis,” Zakaria adds.

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Work underway at Gordon and Chisholm play spaces

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Staged work has started at the junior play area at Point Hut Pond playground and will next move to the Maliyan nest.

    Construction is underway on upgrades to Gordon’s Point Hut Pond playground and Chisholm’s Alston Street playground.

    Both upgrades follow community consultation and will provide Canberrans with better places to play.

    Work is taking place between the hours of 7 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday. If required, work may be undertaken on weekends between 8 am and 4 pm.

    Both play spaces will feature First Nations artwork by Bradley Mapiva Brown.

    Point Hut Pond playground, Gordon

    Staged work has started at the junior play area and will move to the Maliyan nest.

    Point Hut Pond District Park – including the toilets, picnic facilities and barbecues – will still be open during the construction period.

    The basketball court will remain accessible with partial closures only.

    Junior play area key features:

    • nature play including stone and timber steppers with artwork and timber balancing stilts
    • play opportunities including a vortex climber and a rocker
    • new softfall throughout the play area
    • retaining all existing equipment from the playground.

    Maliyan nest area key features:

    • Maliyan nest climber with slide, suitable for junior, pre-teen and teen play
    • slide and scramble slope
    • nature play elements including timber and boulder steppers
    • informal seating opportunities with sandstone blocks.

    There will also be more seating added at the basketball court, interpretive signage, cultural design elements and landscaping.

    Find out more and view designs

    Alston Street playground, Chisholm

    Exciting additions are coming to Alston Street playground.

    Key features:

    • nature play with balancing and climbing elements including stone and timber steppers and recycled fallen tree trunks
    • all ages and abilities accessible spinner and nest swing with softfall beneath both items
    • play opportunities including climbing poles, a pommel walk and vortex as well as a brown snake sculpture to climb on
    • retaining existing equipment from the playground including the combination unit, swings and rockers
    • picnic tables, shelter and seating
    • existing shade sail retained and improved with cultural artwork on its posts as well as on the upgraded basketball hoop and backboard
    • concrete path with animal imprints
    • nine new trees and landscaping including groundcover, native grasses and shrubs
    • improved drainage throughout the playground and improvements to the carpark surface.

    Alston Street playground will be closed while upgrades are underway.

    The closest alternative playgrounds are the Caroline Chisholm playground and the Chisholm shops playground.

    Find out more and view designs

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President signs the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The State Security Agency (SSA) is set to split into two separate departments, foreign and domestic, following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signing of the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill into law. 

    The General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill signed on Friday is the basis for significant reforms of South Africa’s intelligence services that will be accompanied by improved oversight and accountability.

    In a statement, the Presidency said the amendment Act amends the National Strategic Intelligence Act of 1994, the Intelligence Services Act of 2002, and the Intelligence Services Oversight Act of 1994.

    “Among other reforms, the amendment Act disestablishes the current State Security Agency as a national government department and replaces it with two separate departments.

    “The new departments are the Foreign Intelligence Service (FIS) which shall be responsible for foreign intelligence gathering so as to identify opportunities and threats to National Security, and the Domestic Intelligence Agency (DIA) which shall be responsible for counter-intelligence as well as the gathering of domestic intelligence in order to identify threats to National Security,” the Presidency said. 

    The amendment Act also re-establishes the South African National Academy of Intelligence (SANAI) and Intelligence Training Institute for both Domestic and Foreign Intelligence capacities.

    The wide-ranging amendments constitute implementation of the recommendations of the 2018 Presidential High-Level Review Panel on the State Security Agency (SSA) and of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector (the Zondo Commission).

    “The law also addresses concerns about bulk interception by intelligence services of internet traffic entering or leaving South Africa, by introducing new measures including authorisation within the intelligence services as well as court reviews of such interception,” the statement read. 

    The law provides for the administration, financial management and expenditure of the intelligence service entities to be within the ambit of the oversight of the Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence – a multiparty committee of Parliament that processes public complaints about the intelligence services and monitors the finances and operations of these services.

    The newly enacted amendments also provide for greater autonomy for the Inspector-General of Intelligence and the National Intelligence Coordinating Committee (NICOC) in making administrative and functional decisions. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Medium-Term Development Plan 2024–2029 finalised

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Sunday, March 30, 2025

    The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation has announced that the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024–2029 has been finalised, providing a strategic framework to guide South Africa’s development priorities over the next five years.  

    “Announced as the foundation of government’s programme of action in the recent State of the Nation Address, the MTDP 2024-2029 integrates the Government of National Unity’s (GNU) Statement of Intent with the National Development Plan 2030 (NDP 2030) to drive inclusive growth, improved service delivery, and better living conditions for all citizens,” the department said. 

    The MTDP 2024-2029 was developed through an extensive participatory process involving government, experts, and stakeholders to ensure evidence-based planning and effective implementation. 

    It follows a whole-of-government approach, ensuring that national, provincial, and local government structures are aligned in their priorities, budgets, and delivery mechanisms.

    “The plan is now available for stakeholders and the public to engage with, as government moves towards implementation and monitoring progress. Collaboration from all sectors of society is encouraged to ensure the successful execution of the plan’s priorities and targets,” the department said. 

    For more information and to access the MTDP 2024–2029, visit www.dpme.gov.za or scan the QR code below:

    -SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Intensified control measures too curb Foot and Mouth Disease

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Ministry of Agriculture has provided an update on the ongoing outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, with intensified control measures being implemented to curb the spread of the virus.

    As reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), KwaZulu-Natal has experienced 165 outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease, with 18 of these having been closed and 147 still active. 

    In a statement, the Ministry said an enlarged Disease Management Area (DMA) was declared on 17 March 2025, where signs of continued virus activity persist. 

    “Livestock owners are urged to maintain strict biosecurity and adhere to movement protocols to curb disease spread. Full compliance could result in a noticeable reduction of viral load after 28 days,” the Ministry said. 

    A new outbreak in Bergville, outside the newly-declared DMA, has been confirmed. The Ministry said the traceback suggests the infection originated from within the extended DMA boundaries before the declaration was made. 

    “Two additional suspect cases outside the DMA are under investigation and all these locations have been quarantined. 

    “Surveillance and vaccination efforts are being intensified within affected zones and a 10 km radius around infected locations. A meeting was recently held with key stakeholders to finalise the Movement Control Protocol for the DMA, now accessible via the department’s and KZN Agriculture’s official platforms,” the Ministry said. 

    Eastern Cape Disease Management Area Update 

    The Eastern Cape has reported 40 outbreaks, with 1 closed and 39 still open. 

    “One newly reported outbreak was detected through routine surveillance and reported to WOAH, but blood test results indicate past infection only, with no evidence of active viral circulation,” the Ministry of Agriculture said. 

    The Ministry said ongoing testing on selected properties aims to finalise surveillance efforts within the DMA, with the hope that the results will support the lifting of DMA restrictions in the near future.  

    In light of the encouraging results from ongoing surveillance, the department is now able to introduce targeted relief measures for farmers within the DMA whose herds have consistently tested negative and have not received FMD vaccinations. 

    These farms will now be permitted to process milk for local consumption through single pasteurisation, instead of the previously mandated double pasteurisation or UHT treatment. 

    Additionally, such farms will no longer be required to conduct 28-day interval testing to qualify for direct slaughter. These measures are intended to ease the economic burden on compliant farmers. Eligible farm owners are urged to contact their local State Veterinarian to apply for the necessary exemptions. 

    National biosecurity and movement controls 

    The following control measures introduced in October 2022 remain in effect: 

    • Movement of cloven-hoofed livestock across South Africa requires a health declaration from the owner.
    • Newly-introduced cattle, sheep, or goats must be isolated from resident herds for at least 28 days. 

    “Farmers are strongly advised to limit animal movements and exercise caution when procuring animals. Section 11 of the Animal Diseases Act imposes a legal duty on any owner or manager of animals to take all reasonable steps to prevent their animals from becoming infected with any disease and to prevent the spread of any disease from their animals or land to other animals or other properties,” the Ministry said. 

    Essential biosecurity measures include limiting and/or postponing the introduction of new animals if possible and, if necessary, only introducing animals from known clean farms with a health declaration, preventing nose-to-nose contact of farm animals with animals outside the farm, maintaining secure farm boundaries, and restricting access for people and vehicles as much as possible. 

    Report suspicious symptoms 

    FMD is a controlled animal disease in terms of the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No 35 of 1984). The Ministry has urged that any suspicious clinical symptoms (salivation, blisters in the mouth, limping or hoof lesions) must be reported to the local State Veterinarian immediately and such animals must not be moved under any circumstances. 

    The Act prescribes certain control measures, like isolation and movement control, that are being enforced by Veterinary Services. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: G20 nations must place inequality at the heart of economic policymaking: Deputy Minister Mohai

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Department of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (DPME) Deputy Minister Seiso Mohai has stressed the urgency of addressing persistent global inequalities.

    “G20 nations must place inequality at the heart of economic policymaking, as disparities in wealth and development are neither just nor sustainable. The consequences of these inequalities are most pronounced in the Global South, where poverty, unemployment, and a lack of access to essential services continued to hinder progress,” Mohai said.

    The Deputy Minister was delivering a keynote address during a two-day G20 Seminar focused on the theme: “Public Good, Development Finance, and Social Protection”. 

    The seminar was hosted by the DPME in collaboration with the South African Association for Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) and Tshwane University of Technology (TUT). 

    The seminar was a key part of South Africa’s strategic G20 priorities – to explore innovative solutions for addressing economic disparities, advancing sustainable development, and ensuring social protection for vulnerable communities.

    It provided a platform for fostering dialogue among government officials, academia, civil society, and the private sector, with a focus on tackling challenges such as economic disparities, mobilising development finance, and advancing inclusive social protection policies. 

    Deputy Minister Mohai emphasised the importance of constructive dialogue throughout the seminar. 

    “This gathering provided a unique platform for engagement among key stakeholders. We looked forward to brutally frank debates aimed at addressing the challenges of inequality, unemployment, and poverty.

    “We were encouraged by this partnership between DPME, SAAPAM, TUT, and other academic institutions, civil society, and non-government organizations, and we looked forward to successfully hosting this prestigious G20 seminar,” he said.

    Discussions at the seminar also explored ways to overcome structural barriers to sustainable development, including the mobilisation of innovative financing solutions for climate action and other pressing global issues.

    The seminar focused on the following key areas:

    • Public Good: Ensuring equitable access to essential services and resources for all citizens.
    • Development Finance: Mobilising sustainable funding mechanisms to stimulate economic growth.
    • Social Protection: Strengthening policies aimed at reducing inequality and providing support for the most vulnerable.

    Mohai also highlighted the pivotal role of academia and professional bodies in developing innovative solutions to global development challenges. 

    “South Africa’s engagement with the G20 has been guided by strategic foreign policy pillars, including national interests, the African agenda, South-South cooperation, and multilateralism. Our presidency came at a time when the world faced overlapping global crises such as climate change, inequality, and geopolitical instability, which disproportionately affected developing nations,” he noted.

    The Deputy Minister also reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to addressing the structural causes of economic disparities. 

    “Through collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment, we can create a future that is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable,” he stated.

    The two-day seminar featured several distinguished academic dignitaries, including UNISA Vice Chancellor Puleng Lenkabula and Tshwane University Dean, Professor Mashupye Maserumule, among others.

    Professor Maserumule shared valuable insights on the crucial role of an ethical, capable, and professional public service in driving innovation in planning and development. He emphasised the importance of a well-equipped public sector in fostering sustainable growth and effective governance.

    In her address, UNISA Vice Chancellor Lenkabula highlighted the vital role of academia in South Africa’s leadership during the DPME G20 Seminar. She focused on the contribution of academic institutions, research, and higher education can make toward both national and international G20 objectives.

    “Academia plays a pivotal role by conducting research that addresses global challenges on the G20 agenda, such as climate change, global health, economic recovery post-pandemic, and sustainable development,” she said.  

    “South African universities and research institutions have the opportunity to collaborate with their international counterparts to generate data and policy recommendations that support both South Africa’s national interests and the broader goals of the G20,” Prof Lenkabula added. 

    The department said that the outcomes of the seminar will contribute to South Africa’s G20 agenda, focusing on building a future that is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable for all. 

    The event aimed to generate actionable recommendations and innovative policy solutions to guide the global community in confronting critical issues such as inequality, unemployment, and poverty.

    “This seminar marked a critical milestone in South Africa’s leadership of the G20, with a continued focus on fostering solidarity, equality, and sustainability in global development,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group first meeting concluded

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Climate Change and Air Quality, Maesela Kekana, has reflected on the deliberations that took place during the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) meeting held this week.

    The first day of discussions centred around the ECSWG Issue Note as a whole. 

    “General comments and reflections were presented in the recap report of day one. This was followed by focussed sessions on days two to four wherein each identified priority area was discussed in detail and where participants were provided with the opportunity to provide reflections on each area. 

    “These included the Biodiversity and Conservation priority area; Land Degradation, Desertification and Drought priority area; Chemicals and Waste Management priority area and the Oceans and Coast priority area,” Kekana said.

    He highlighted that the delegates also discussed the Climate Change and Air Quality Management priority area as separate discussions. 

    “Just looking at this brief synopsis of the discussions which we undertook during the last four days I am sure you would agree with me that the meeting has provided a significant input into the issue note, reflections on the priorities, as well as the expected deliverables.”

    “South Africa has taken note of all your comments and proposals and will capture them in the report of the meeting in preparation for the next ECSWG meeting which is scheduled to take place in person in our beautiful and iconic Kruger National Park. It is therefore my honour to invite you to participate in this meeting which will take place from 14-18 July 2025,” Kekana said. 

    The 1st ECSWG meeting convened virtually, which involved the presentation of the ECSWG Issue Note, priorities and proposed deliverables and received inputs and views from G20 MS. Written comments on the priorities are due by 5 April 2025.

    Engagements by the Chair of ECWSG will be undertaken with the Chairs of other relevant working groups to enhance collaboration, synergies and avoid duplications as appropriate.

    During the interim period between the 1st ECSWG and 2nd ECSWG meeting, ongoing ECWSG and stakeholder engagements and events will take place, including but not limited to bilateral meetings with G20 member states; workshops; side-events; seminars; and conferences. 

    Ongoing review, revision and finalisation of the Technical Papers will continue as guided by reflections in the meeting and written inputs. These will be shared well ahead of the 2nd ECSWG meeting.

    At the 2nd ECSWG Meeting at the Kruger National Park on 14-18 July 2025 Technical Papers to be presented and discussed.

    The 3rd ECSWG Meeting in Cape Town on 13 -15 October 2025 will see final versions of the technical papers and draft Outcome Document discussed.

    The Ministerial Meeting in Cape Town on 16 – 17 October 2025 will discuss the  Outcome Document and the other deliverables to be adopted.

    “I wish to take this opportunity to thank you for your engagement during the last four days and hope that we can continue in this spirit and on this trajectory. It has indeed been an honour to chair this meeting, and we have covered a lot of ground in our initial ECSWG meeting,” Kekana said.

    The ECSWG virtual meeting was opened by DFFE Minister, Dr Dion George, on Tuesday, 25 March 2025. 

    The G20 ECSWG meeting brought together leaders, policymakers, and experts from G20 Countries, invited Countries as well as partners to advance discussions on crucial environment and climate sustainability priorities that shape our collective future. – SAnews.gov.za  

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SIU to probe National Skills Fund, DPWI, among others

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed five proclamations – two new and three amendments – authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of the National Skills Fund and the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.  

    In addition, the President has amended existing proclamations to expand the scope of investigations into the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Eskom, PetroSA, Transnet, South African Airways (SAA), the Department of Human Settlements, Alexkor, and the South African Council for Educators (SACE). 

    In a statement on Friday, the SIU said these investigations aim to recover financial losses suffered by the State. 

    National Skills Fund 

    “Proclamation 253 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration, improper or unlawful conduct by officials or employees of the Department of Higher Education and Training, and the possible mismanagement of funds allocated to the National Skills Fund (NSF),” the SIU said. 

    The investigation will focus on procurement and contracting for the implementation of skills development programmes, training projects, and the appointment of implementing agents for the following projects: 

    • Yikhonolakho Woman and Youth Primary Co-operative Limited (NSF 16/1/3/21)
    • Dithipe Development Institute (Pty) Limited
    • Dzunde Farming Co-operative Limited – Rural Development
    • Dual System Apprenticeship Pilot Project – Port Elizabeth TVET College (NSF10/3/8/2/9)
    • Rubicon Communication CC
    • Centre for Education Policy Development (Fruitless & Wasteful Expenditure) — NSF 16/2/1/2 & NSF 10/4/4/3
    • Emanzini Staffing Solutions (Pty) Limited (NSF16/1/4/55 and/or 2016-NSFWIL — 0174)
    • ADA Holdings (NSF16/1/4/5, Ingewe TVET College — NSF/16/3/2/2 & Lusikisiki/ Bizana — NSF/16/1/2/3)
    • Ekurhuleni West TVET College (NSF16/1/2/39)
    • Passionate about People (Pty) Limited (NSF/16/1/3/12&16). 

    Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure by the NSF or the department. 

    The scope of the investigation includes any unlawful or improper conduct by suppliers, service providers, and other involved parties, occurring between 1 January 2013 and 28 March 2025, or related matters before or after this period.

    National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure 

    Proclamation 256 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of maladministration in the affairs of the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) relating to the appointment of travel agents in 2017 for the rendering of travel agency services, including flights, accommodation, and vehicle hire. 

    “The investigation will determine whether these appointments and related payments were conducted in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective; contrary to applicable legislation; or inconsistent with Treasury instructions, departmental manuals, policies, procedures, or other applicable prescripts. 

    “The SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the Department and any unlawful or improper conduct by officials, employees, service providers, or any other parties involved in the procurement of these services,” the SIU said. 

    The SIU added that the scope of the investigation includes any unlawful or improper conduct by suppliers, service providers, and other involved parties, occurring between 1 March 2017 and 28 March 2025, or related matters before or after this period. 

    Amendment of Proclamation No. R.206 of 2024 

    Proclamation 252 of 2025 amends Proclamation R.206 of 2024 to reflect the full scope of the SIU’s investigation into several state institutions. 

    The amendment corrects and clarifies the entities under investigation, which include the South African Broadcasting Corporation SOC Limited (SABC), Eskom Holdings SOC Limited, the Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa SOC Limited (PetroSA), Transnet SOC Limited, South African Airways SOC Limited (SAA), and the National Department of Human Settlements (formerly known as the National Department of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation). 

    The amendment substitutes the heading and paragraph 1 of the original Proclamation to formally add South African Airways as a state institution which will be subjected to an investigation of allegations of serious maladministration, corruption, and unlawful conduct in the affairs of these state institutions. 

    Amendment of Alexkor investigation to include additional institutions and broader scope 

    Proclamation 254 of 2025 amends Proclamation R.45 of 2021 to broaden the scope of the Special Investigating Unit’s (SIU) investigation beyond Alexkor SOC Limited. 

    The amendment now includes the Alexkor Richtersveld Mining Company Pooling and Sharing Joint Venture and the State Diamond Trader—collectively referred to as “the Institutions.” The amendment updates several references throughout the original Proclamation to reflect this expanded scope. 

    “The amended Proclamation authorises the SIU to investigate the procurement of and contracting for goods or services by or on behalf of the Institutions in relation to the marketing, valuation, sale (including decisions not to buy), and beneficiation of diamonds, and any income generated or lost, or payments made in respect thereof. 

    “The investigation will consider whether such conduct was contrary to applicable legislation, Treasury instructions, or the Institutions’ own policies and procedures,” the SIU said. 

    The SIU will also probe serious maladministration in the affairs of Alexkor SOC Limited in respect of contracts concluded with, and fees paid to, Regiments Capital (Pty) Limited. 

    The SIU will also investigate any related unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the Institutions, as well as fraudulent, irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by Board members, officials, employees, agents, service providers, traders, auctioneers, bidders, or buyers—particularly where such conduct resulted in undue benefit or concealed interests. 

    In addition, the Proclamation authorises the SIU to probe serious maladministration in the affairs of the institutions in respect of agreements or contracts with service providers and other diamond trade actors and specifically empowers the SIU to investigate contracts concluded with and fees paid to Regiments Capital (Pty) Limited by Alexkor SOC Limited. 

    The amended scope covers conduct occurring between 1 January 2014 (previously 1 October 2016) and the date of publication of this Proclamation and includes related matters outside this period if they are relevant to the investigation. 

    “Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.” 

    In accordance with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during these investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action. 

    The SIU is also empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to recover financial losses to the State resulting from acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana’s e-levy: 3 lessons from the abolished mobile money tax

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Max Gallien, Research Fellow, Institute of Development Studies

    The first budget speech of Ghana’s new government on 11 March painted a picture of an economy in crisis, facing high debt and fiscal mismanagement. The finance minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, acknowledged that key International Monetary Fund performance targets would be missed and announced drastic spending cuts.

    However, most Ghanaians just wanted to know whether the minister would announce the scrapping of the country’s electronic transfer levy (or e-tax), as he’d indicated he would.

    He did, a decision parliament endorsed unanimously the next day.

    The e-levy, a fee on mobile money transactions, was introduced in 2022. Ghanaians immediately united around the issue in fierce opposition, a sentiment that grew as the tax took effect.

    Read more: Ghana’s e-levy is unfair to the poor and misses its revenue target: a lesson in mobile money tax design

    Both major parties had campaigned for its removal in the run-up to elections held in December 2024.

    How did the e-levy become so unpopular, and what will repealing it mean?

    Over three years, researchers from the International Centre for Tax and Development worked with partners in Ghana to study the e-levy as part of our Digitax research programme. This study generated knowledge and evidence at the interface of digital financial services, digital identities and tax.

    The e-levy’s intense politicisation and complex design made it an interesting case of a wider trend of mobile money taxes in the region. We learned more about the e-levy’s impact on informal sector workers in Accra, knowledge and sentiments, registered merchant exemptions and mobile money usage.

    Based on this research, three key lessons emerge.

    Firstly, like other taxes on mobile money, the e-levy has come to be an important source of revenue in Ghana, even if it did not live up to initial optimistic estimates of its potential.

    Secondly, beyond the revenue it raised directly, the real potential of the e-levy – and loss if it is completely abolished – lay in the data it produced. It was enabling the Ghana Revenue Authority to uncover users with significant incomes who were not registered for income tax.

    Thirdly, the new consensus against the e-levy has arisen because important stakeholders such as mobile money providers and public opinion were not adequately managed from the start.

    A difficult birth

    Much like its departure, the e-levy was announced during a time of fiscal distress. Mobile money transactions had expanded rapidly, particularly after COVID-19, making it an attractive tax target, especially for the informal sector.

    Given this growth in the digital financial sector coupled with the need for revenue, the e-levy targeted the value of electronic financial transactions.

    Introduced in the 2022 budget at 1.75%, with a 100 cedi (US$10) daily exemption, it was met with strong resistance. The budget was rejected, protests erupted, and negotiations ensued. The government attempted to win public support through town hall meetings, eventually reducing the rate to 1.5% and adding exemptions.

    It went ahead with implementation in May 2022, however.

    Negative sentiment persisted, fuelled by confusion and concerns about its implementation.

    The government framed the tax as being essential for national development and investment attraction. But efforts to justify the necessity and benefit of the tax seemed to fall short.

    Read more: New data on the e-levy in Ghana: unpopular tax on mobile money transfers is hitting the poor hardest

    Several International Centre for Tax and Development studies, nationally representative and one focusing on informal markets, found an overwhelming sense of dissatisfaction among Ghanaians.

    The studies also showed the grievances had less to do with the tax and its rates per se and more to do with how people viewed government and its trustworthiness to collect and spend money.

    Did Ghana’s e-levy work?

    New taxes are often unpopular, but that alone should not determine their fate.

    Other key indicators of performance include:

    Revenue: The e-levy met only 12% of the initial revenue target of GH₵6.96 billion (US$380 million). But, based on our research, we have concluded that this reflects poor forecasting rather than implementation failure. It still contributed about 1% of total tax revenue, which equated to about US$129 million annually.

    Mobile money usage: Many critics feared negative effects on financial inclusion. However, one study of this impact shows that while transactions initially dropped, they soon rebounded and continued to grow. Another International Centre for Tax and Development study found that exempted payments values and volumes increased, with registered merchants who benefited from this exemption developing greater trust in government policies.

    Equity and distributional effects: Despite exemptions, an International Centre for Tax and Development study focusing on the intended target of the e-levy, the informal sector, found that the e-levy as a whole was highly regressive. While the poorest were somewhat protected by the 100 cedi daily threshold, low-income mobile money users still bore the greatest tax burden. Additionally, with the high rate of inflation in Ghana, the unchanged daily threshold became less effective with time.

    This result is striking given that in its design, the e-levy is potentially less regressive than most mobile money taxes in Africa.

    Will it be missed?

    Given public hostility, its removal may be widely celebrated. However, it leaves a revenue gap that must be addressed. Ghana’s fiscal history suggests this could lead to new, potentially unpopular taxes.

    The bigger loss may be the dismantling of systems built to administer the e-levy. These new advances in tax administration allowed the country’s revenue authorities to track high-volume users who were not registered for income tax, offering a path towards more efficient taxation.

    As governments face mounting revenue pressures in an era of high debt and declining aid, careful attention must be paid to the politics of tax reform. Perhaps the e-levy’s greatest flaw was the haste with which it was introduced, without adequate stakeholder engagement. Uganda faced similar backlash from rushed mobile money taxation in 2018.

    Evidence shows that perceptions affect how users respond to taxes, and first impressions can be hard to overcome. So, it is essential to make sure they are seen as fair and appropriate from the start, so that they are sustainable.

    – Ghana’s e-levy: 3 lessons from the abolished mobile money tax
    – https://theconversation.com/ghanas-e-levy-3-lessons-from-the-abolished-mobile-money-tax-253285

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Support for Canberra Olympians and Paralympians

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Extra funding will support local athletes like Jack Cleary, Angela Ballard and Chad Perris.

    The ACT Government is backing Canberran Olympic and Paralympic athletes with extra funding.

    The Paris Olympic Games are in July, and the Paralympic Games are in August this year.

    The extra funding will help local athletes prepare to qualify to represent Australia in the lead up to the games. “The funding to me and the whole rowing team allows us to be the best we can be,” Olympic athlete Jack Cleary said.

    “At the games, it is an absolute whirlwind, and we need to keep ourselves central and not worry about the things you can’t control. They are being managed by the staff who come along to help us – which this funding helps to support,” he said.

    The ACT has a history of supporting Olympic and Paralympic athletes. It was the first jurisdiction in Australia to fund the Olympic and Paralympic Teams equally.

    Paralympic athlete Chad Perris says the timing of the funding is key.

    “We have a lot of extra costs, whether travel, equipment, there are a lot of things that go into getting us over the line to get us to Paris,” he said.

    “I’m really excited about this funding and to have it as equal funding with our Olympic counterparts is really exciting.”

    “The Paralympic team funding from the ACT Government is huge,” Paralympic athlete Angela Ballard said.

    “I know from behind the scenes how much it takes just to get our athletes over there and make sure we have the resources we need to perform.

    “On a personal level, the ACT Government funding grants for individual ACT athletes will make a big difference. We still have a lot of work to do to keep up our training and to qualify between now and the Games, and this support will be of great help,” she said.

    Canberra is home to elite athletes training at both the Australian Institute of Sport and ACT Academy of Sport. Despite being the smallest jurisdiction in Australia, ACT athletes have a strong presence at each Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

    The ACT Government will provide funding support through the Mid-Year Budget Review. This includes both direct financial assistance and in-kind training assistance through the ACT Academy of Sport.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Staff Concludes Visit to Togo

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

    WASHINGTON D.C., United States of America, March 30, 2025/APO Group/ —

    • IMF staff conclude visit to Lomé to discuss macroeconomic policies in the context of the second review of the Extended Credit Facility supported program.
    • Togo’s growth performance remains robust, and inflation is moderating.
    • The authorities have affirmed their commitment to continue advancing policies aimed at strengthening fiscal revenue, making growth more inclusive, and enhancing governance.

    An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team, led by Hans Weisfeld, visited Lomé during March 17 – March 28 to discuss macroeconomic developments and policies. This visit took place in the context of the second review of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF)-arrangement that the IMF has been providing to Togo since March 2024.   

    At the conclusion of the visit, Mr. Weisfeld issued the following statement:

    “The IMF team had constructive and productive discussions with the Togolese authorities and commended them on the sustained progress in advancing reforms. 

    “Economic growth reached an estimated 5.3 percent in 2024 and is projected to reach around 5.5 percent over the medium term, barring major adverse shocks. Inflation has continued to slow, to 2.8 percent in February 2025 (annual average).

    “During the visit, IMF staff reiterated the necessity to continue implementing reforms towards a disciplined fiscal approach and a sustainable public debt and to continue reforms to enhance inclusion, improve the business environment, and limit risks.

    “The team will return to Washington, D.C., and will continue discussing with the Togolese authorities, including during the upcoming IMF/World Bank Group Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C. in April. The discussions will focus on making further progress on the structural reform and fiscal policy agenda, among other topics.

    “The IMF approved the ECF-arrangement in March 2024 to help the authorities address the legacies of the shocks experienced since 2020, notably the COVID-19 pandemic and the increase in global food and fuel prices. The Togolese authorities were able to lessen these shocks’ impacts on the Togolese population and their economy, but this came at the price of large fiscal deficits and a rapidly rising debt burden. The arrangement provides financing of US$ 390 million to Togo on favorable terms aims to help the Togolese government implement reforms. These reforms aim at (i) making growth more inclusive while strengthening debt sustainability, and (ii) conducting structural reforms to support growth and limit fiscal and financial sector risks. The IMF concluded the first review under the ECF-arrangement in December 2024.

    “The team expresses their gratitude to the authorities, development partners, and representatives of Togo’s civil society for their constructive engagement and support during this visit.”

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nigerians having babies abroad: women explain their reasons

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Aduragbemi Banke-Thomas, Associate professor, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

    Nigerian women make up a significant proportion of foreign women giving birth in several countries.

    A study done in Calgary in Canada found 24.5% of foreign women identified as having travelled abroad to give birth were from Nigeria.

    Research in Chicago in the US found the majority (88%) of those seeking obstetric care in a hospital were Nigerian citizens.

    In the UK, the phenomenon is labelled by some as the “Lagos Shuttle”, highlighting the high number of Nigerian women said to be so-called “birth tourists”.

    It is estimated that over 23% of pregnant Nigerian women would like to travel abroad to give birth.

    Why is this? As medical and legal scholars we asked women who had travelled overseas for the birth of their babies to share their experiences.

    Existing research has not done enough to capture their voices, which matter in framing service delivery and immigration policies.

    We reported findings from this first-of-its-kind study in PLOS Global Public Health.

    As there is no registry of foreign pregnant women who gave birth abroad, it is a challenge to find them. For our study, we used social media platforms to recruit 27 Nigerian women who had given birth to at least one child abroad and conducted in-depth interviews with them to understand their motivations and experiences.

    Why women do it

    Of all recruited, 23 gave birth to at least one child in the US, and four gave birth to at least one child in the UK. One woman each gave birth in Canada, Ireland and Zambia.

    All the women in the study had at least a university degree.

    We found that reasons for seeking childbirth abroad varied.

    Some women were motivated by both perceived and experienced gains of foreign citizenship, which they believed might give their children a good education, a better living environment, and easier access to jobs and loans.

    However, it was not all about citizenship. Another motivation was to benefit from “better healthcare”, especially for those who had either had bad experiences during previous births in Nigeria or were concerned because they were carrying what they called a “precious baby”, for example after years of infertility.

    Many women in the study also sought childbirth abroad because it is where they had loved ones to support them through pregnancy, childbirth and having a newborn – a motivation not previously reported.

    Indeed, the number of Nigerians living in the US has increased over time and as of 2023, over 760,000 Americans identify as being of Nigerian origin. Essentially, more than one in 10 African immigrants in the US are Nigerians.

    Some Nigerian women planned to give birth abroad long before they even got pregnant. Others were encouraged to do so by family, friends or colleagues.

    Some decided to seek childbirth abroad after their income increased.

    Mostly positive

    Childbirth abroad is mostly a positive experience, but some women reported feeling treated badly because they were “self-paying” patients, “black”, or not native to the country.

    While travel for many was mostly uneventful, some experienced life-threatening situations en route to their destination or upon arrival.

    They found the cost of care to be exorbitant, but many reported that they were able to pay it off in instalments, or negotiated rebates or discounts from hospitals. A separate study showed that four in five foreign pregnant women who gave birth in a Canadian hospital, including some from Nigeria, had no outstanding bill after discharge.

    In our study, those who struggled to pay said they incurred unexpected costs due to complications that resulted in caesarean sections or other surgical procedures.

    Support during childbirth abroad was considered crucial and included loved ones from Nigeria who would travel with the pregnant woman to their destination.

    Push and pull syndrome

    With an ongoing exodus of Nigerians out of the country due to push and pull factors, known locally as jàpa, it is more likely that there will be more Nigerian pregnant women who have their support system abroad.

    Countries like Nigeria should do more to improve the quality of care obtainable in their health systems.

    Clearly motivations vary, and it is not always about birthright citizenship. While most women have mostly positive experiences, some have negative experiences that require attention and safeguards. For example, care guidelines in host countries specifically assuring good quality care for all pregnant women, including women who have crossed the border to seek childbirth.

    The return of US president Donald Trump makes the need to install these safeguards particularly urgent. In his first term he ordered the United States Department of State to discontinue the approval of visas for pregnant women.

    In his second term he has focused on abolishing birthright citizenship altogether.

    – Nigerians having babies abroad: women explain their reasons
    – https://theconversation.com/nigerians-having-babies-abroad-women-explain-their-reasons-251067

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s video message to the sixth and final meeting of the International Group of Eminent Persons for a World Without Nuclear Weapons

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong>Download the video:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+26+Mar+25/3355310_MSG+SG+INT+GROUP+OF+EMINENT+PERSONS+26+MAR+25.mp4

    Distinguished members of the International Group of Eminent Persons for a World without Nuclear Weapons,

    I am pleased to address you on your sixth, and final, meeting.

    You have carried out your work during a period of deepening geopolitical divisions.

    The nuclear threat is at heights not seen since the Cold War – with escalating rhetoric and another nuclear arms race taking shape.

    Meanwhile, the international non-proliferation and disarmament architecture – so carefully constructed over decades – is at risk of collapse.

    Dialogue is sorely needed.

    But talk is not enough. We need solutions and action.

    This is why your work over the past two years has been so important.

    You come from all parts of the world – including nuclear-weapon States and non-nuclear-weapon States.

    And you are united in your commitment to ensure that humanity walks a path toward a world without nuclear weapons.

    We are running out of time to make progress.

    I look forward to your recommendations – and wish you every success in your final meeting.

    Thank you.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Discovery of a 4,000-year-old Bronze Age settlement in Morocco rewrites history

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Hamza Benattia, Prehistory, Universitat de Barcelona

    A new archaeological discovery at Kach Kouch in Morocco challenges the long-held belief that the Maghreb (north-west Africa) was an empty land before the arrival of the Phoenicians from the Middle East in around 800 BCE. It reveals a much richer and more complex history than previously thought.

    Map of the region. H Benattia

    Everything found at the site indicates that during the Bronze Age, more than 3,000 years ago, stable agricultural settlements already existed on the African coast of the Mediterranean.

    This was at the same time as societies such as the Mycenaean flourished in the eastern Mediterranean.

    Our discovery, led by a team of young researchers from Morocco’s National Institute of Archaeology, expands our knowledge of the recent prehistory of north Africa. It also redefines our understanding of the connections between the Maghreb and the rest of the Mediterranean in ancient times.

    Excavations at the settlement. H Benattia

    How the discovery was made

    Kach Kouch was first identified in 1988 and first excavated in 1992. At the time, researchers believed the site had been inhabited between the 8th and 6th centuries BCE. This was based on the Phoenician pottery that was found.

    Extracting botanical remains. H Benattia

    Nearly 30 years later, our team carried out two new excavation seasons in 2021 and 2022. Our investigations included cutting-edge technology such as drones, differential GPS (global positioning systems) and 3D models.

    A rigorous protocol was followed for collecting samples. This allowed us to detect fossilised remains of seeds and charcoal.

    Subsequently, a series of analyses allowed us to reconstruct the settlement’s economy and its natural environment in prehistoric times.

    What the remains revealed

    The excavations, along with radiocarbon dating, revealed that the settlement underwent three phases of occupation between 2200 and 600 BCE.

    Dates of occupation. H Benattia

    The earliest documented remains (2200–2000 BCE) are scarce. They consist of three undecorated pottery sherds, a flint flake and a cow bone.

    The scarcity of materials and contexts could be due to erosion or a temporary occupation of the hill during this phase.

    Ceramics of KK2 phase. P Menéndez Molist/H Benattia

    In its second phase, after a period of abandonment, the Kach Kouch hill was permanently occupied from 1300 BCE. Its inhabitants, who probably numbered no more than a hundred, dedicated themselves to agriculture and animal husbandry.

    They lived in circular dwellings built from wattle and daub, a technique that combines wooden poles, reeds and mud. They dug silos into the rock to store agricultural products.

    Oldest bronze object. M Radi

    Analysis shows that they cultivated wheat, barley and legumes, and raised cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.

    They also used grinding stones for cereal processing, flint tools, and decorated pottery. In addition, the oldest known bronze object in north Africa (excluding Egypt) has been documented. It is probably a scrap metal fragment removed after casting in a mould.

    Interactions with the Phoenicians

    Between the 8th and 7th centuries BCE, during the so-called Mauretanian period, the inhabitants of Kach Kouch maintained the same material culture, architecture and economy as in the previous phase. However, interactions with Phoenician communities that were starting to settle in nearby sites, such as Lixus, brought new cultural practices.

    Remains of a square house built from stone, wattle and daub. H Benattia

    For example, circular dwellings coexisted with square ones made of stone and wattle and daub, combining Phoenician and local construction techniques.

    Dwellings in Kach Kouch. H Benattia

    Furthermore, new crops began to be cultivated, like grapes and olives. Among the new materials, wheel-made Phoenician ceramics, such as amphorae (storage jugs) and plates, and the use of iron objects stand out.

    Around 600 BCE, Kach Kouch was peacefully abandoned, perhaps due to social and economic changes. Its inhabitants likely moved to other nearby settlements.

    So who were the Bronze Age inhabitants?

    It’s unclear whether the Maghreb populations in the Bronze Age lived in tribes, as would later occur during the Mauretanian period. They were probably organised as families. Burials suggest there were no clear signs of hierarchy.

    Amphorae and plates. P Menéndez Molist/H Benattia

    They may have spoken a language similar to the Amazigh, the indigenous north African language, which did not become written until the introduction of the Phoenician alphabet. The cultural continuity documented at Kach Kouch suggests that these populations are the direct ancestors of the Mauretanian peoples of north-west Africa.

    Why this matters

    Kach Kouch is not only the first and oldest known Bronze Age settlement in the Maghreb but also reshapes our understanding of prehistory in this region.

    The new findings, along with other recent discoveries, demonstrate that north-west Africa has been connected to other regions of the Mediterranean, the Atlantic and the Sahara since prehistoric times.

    Read more: Discovery of 5,000-year-old farming society in Morocco fills a major gap in history – north-west Africa was a central player in trade and culture

    Our findings challenge traditional narratives, many of which were influenced by colonial views that portrayed the Maghreb as an empty and isolated land until it was “civilized” by foreign peoples.

    Phases of occupation at Kach Kouch. H Benattia

    As a result, the Maghreb has long been absent from debates on the later prehistory of the Mediterranean. These new discoveries not only represent a breakthrough for archaeology, but also a call to reconsider dominant historical narratives. Kach Kouch offers the opportunity to rewrite north Africa’s history and give it the visibility it has always deserved.

    Read more: Ancient DNA reveals Maghreb communities preserved their culture and genes, even in a time of human migration

    We believe this is a decisive moment for research that could forever change the way we understand not only the history of north Africa, but also its relationship with other areas of the Mediterranean.

    – Discovery of a 4,000-year-old Bronze Age settlement in Morocco rewrites history
    – https://theconversation.com/discovery-of-a-4-000-year-old-bronze-age-settlement-in-morocco-rewrites-history-253172

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day of Zero Waste [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong>Download the video: 
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+Intl+Day+of+Zero+Waste+7+Feb+25/3336952_MSG+SG+INTL+DAY+OF+ZERO+WASTE+07+FEB+25.mp4

    This year’s International Day of Zero Waste puts the focus on fashion and textiles.

    And rightly so.

    Earth is a fashion victim.

    Textile production often uses thousands of chemicals – many of them harmful to people and the environment. 

    It devours resources, like land and water.

    And it belches out greenhouse gases – inflaming the climate crisis.

    Yet clothes are being produced at a staggering rate.

    And textile wastage is huge: every second, the equivalent of a garbage truck full of clothing is incinerated or sent to landfill. 

    We need a different approach:

    One that delivers on the commitment in the Sustainable Development Goals for sustainable production and consumption.

    There are signs of hope.

    Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainability.

    Important initiatives are bringing together business, industry associations, civil society, and more to drive sustainability across the sector.

    They include the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action – convened by the United Nations – and the Fashion Pact, launched by the Government of France.

    And the United Nations Advisory Board on Zero Waste is uniting partners to end waste – including from textiles – and to help meet the SDGs.

    But we must do more to secure change:

    Consumers through their choices;

    Young people and civil society through advocacy;

    Governments through regulations promoting sustainability and decent jobs;

    And businesses through embracing circularity, waste reduction and resource efficiency across their supply chains.

    On this International Day for Zero Waste, let’s all commit to ensure fashion sense makes good sense for people and planet.

    ***

    Cette année, la Journée internationale du zéro déchet est consacrée à la mode et aux textiles.

    Et pour cause !

    La Terre est victime de la mode.

    La fabrication des textiles fait souvent appel à des milliers de substances chimiques, dont beaucoup sont nocives pour les êtres humains et l’environnement.

    Elle dévore les ressources telles que la terre et l’eau.

    Et émet des gaz à effet de serre, aggravant la crise climatique.

    Pourtant, on produit des vêtements à un rythme effréné.

    Le gaspillage textile est énorme : chaque seconde, l’équivalent d’un camion à ordures rempli de vêtements est incinéré ou mis en décharge.

    Nous devons adopter une approche différente,

    qui permette de tenir les promesses des objectifs de développement durable en matière de production et de consommation.

    Il y a des lueurs d’espoir.

    Les consommateurs exigent de plus en plus des pratiques durables.

    D’importantes initiatives rassemblent les entreprises, les associations industrielles, les acteurs de la société civile et d’autres acteurs afin de promouvoir la durabilité dans l’ensemble du secteur.

    Il s’agit notamment de la Charte de l’industrie de la mode pour l’action climatique, établie par l’ONU, et du Fashion Pact, lancé par le Gouvernement français.

    À l’ONU, le Conseil consultatif pour le zéro déchet réunit actuellement des partenaires pour mettre fin à la production de déchets, notamment textiles, et contribuer à la réalisation des objectifs de développement durable.

    Mais nous devons faire plus pour ancrer le changement :

    les consommateurs, par leurs choix ;

    les jeunes et la société civile, grâce à des activités de sensibilisation ;

    les gouvernements, au moyen de réglementations favorisant la durabilité et les emplois décents ;

    les entreprises, en embrassant l’économie circulaire, la réduction des déchets et l’emploi efficace des ressources dans leurs chaînes d’approvisionnement.

    En cette Journée internationale du zéro déchet, engageons-nous à faire en sorte que la mode ait du sens pour les populations et pour la planète.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Window for grant recipients to switch to black cards extended 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Postbank has announced a two-month extension for beneficiaries using the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold card to switch to the Postbank black card, allowing them to continue accessing their social grants through April and May 2025.

    Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe stressed that beneficiaries who have not yet replaced their gold cards with the new black Postbank black card now have additional time to make the switch.

    Government had initially set the deadline for the transition to the new cards to 28 February after which a second extension was set for 20 March 2025.

    Mbengashe said the extension provides relief for those who have not yet completed the card replacement process.

    “This is now mainly, of course, to those beneficiaries who have not had the time to go and replace their gold card with the black card. It is quite important as well to note that the usage of the card and how it works remains the same,” she said at a media briefing on Friday.

    At the briefing in Pretoria, the CEO warned that after 31 May 2025, there will be no alternative methods to access grants.

    Grants will continue to be paid into bank accounts but can only be accessed using the new Postbank black card.

    “There will be no new extensions. Therefore, after these two months, there’ll be no alternative. If you don’t have your black card, you will not be able to access your grant,” she cautioned.

    She said the gold SASSA cards still work the same and can be used at all retailers and ATMs through to 31 May 2024.

    For those who still need to switch to the black card, there are over 300 national sites available for card replacement.

    The sites are primarily located within select outlets of major retailers that include Shoprite, Usave, Shoprite, Spar, Pick ’n Pay and Boxer and beneficiaries can dial *120*355# from any cellphone to locate a nearby site.

    According to the CEO, only an ID or temporary ID document is required to get a new card.

    She said the sites are currently processing approximately 30 000 card replacements daily and urged beneficiaries not to wait until the last minute to replace their cards.

    According to Postbank only 1.3 million of the 2.6 million social grant beneficiaries managed to switch from SASSA gold cards to Postbank black cards.  

    Mbengashe encouraged those who are still using their SASSA gold cards to not use the Post Office.

    “So, we are insisting that people please not use the Post Office. They will not service you if you go to them,” she said, adding that the card can be used at all retailers and ATMs.

    She stated that only Mzansi Flexi card customers using the Post Office or asylum seekers can continue to use the Post Office.

    “I think the most important thing as we continue to allow people to use their gold card is to emphasise that you must go and still replace this gold card and use these two months to your advantage and your benefit,” she added. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Incubator programme to empower emerging developers

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane has hailed the Emerging Developer Incubator and Post-Investment Support Programme, which aims to empower emerging developers.

    Launched in Sandton, Gauteng, the incubator programme will catalyse the transformation of the built environment and assist the Department of Human Settlements in achieving its five-year targets.

    The department’s 2025/2030 Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) seeks to deliver over 200 000 housing units, including 237 000 serviced sites, and 15 000 social housing units. The plan also seeks to upgrade over 4000 informal settlements.

    The technical support programme, a brainchild of the department’s agency, the National Housing Finance Corporation (NHFC), will present an opportunity for contractors and emerging property developers to participate and play an active role in assisting the department in housing the nation.

    Speaking at Friday’s launch, Simelane commended the NHFC for initiating the “indispensable and bespoke” incubation programme, noting that working together in the human settlement value chain, they can “move the needle as far as transformation is concerned”.

    The Minister highlighted that the initiative is intrinsically linked to one of the priorities of the government of driving inclusive growth and job creation, and a transformative three-year initiative designed to promote inclusivity and sustainability within the housing sector.

    Recognising the challenges faced by emerging developers, including weak balance sheets, limited access to finance, and inadequate technical expertise, Simelane said the NHFC has strategically introduced this programme to address these barriers directly, by providing structured support to aspiring developers, with a keen focus on majority Black-owned and designated groups.

    “What is particularly outstanding is that the three-year programme aims to support aspiring developers from majority Black-owned and designated groups by providing non-financial support and facilitating project sustainability through skills transfer and built industry technical assistance.

    The Minister noted that the human settlement sector is currently beset with a myriad of challenges of blocked projects abandoned by contractors and developers, with capacity to manage projects, and access to finance being among the few contributing factors to these challenges.

    The introduction of the initiative is to ensure an increased delivery of housing units within the sector; grow the participation of aspiring developers in the housing value chain, with an added focus on designated groups (women, youth and people with disability), and ease access to funding from the NHFC and from other financiers. 

    Monitoring

    The Minister also assured that the launch of the programme is not a rhetorical statement.

    “We are not here for a talk-shop, we must be intentional and deliberate in driving transformation and in empowering the mentioned designated groups. At the core of the programme is capacity building, which ensures that emerging developers gain essential skills to manage and deliver successful projects.

    “The incubator offers hands-on on and off-site support throughout the project lifecycle, from feasibility studies to financial modelling and compliance with statutory regulations, as well as construction monitoring. We are doing away with the tendency of launching projects of this magnitude and design without post-project monitoring and evaluation to measure impact and success.”

    She emphasised that a key risk mitigation strategy embedded within the programme is the post-investment technical monitoring function, which ensures that the projects maintain quality and efficiency standards, while developers receive ongoing oversight and advisory services.

    The NHFC will collaborate closely with the appointed incubator service provider experienced in contractor and developer support, ensuring adherence to industry best practices and skills transfer to the NHFC itself.

    “This Emerging Developer Incubator Programme is designed not only to provide immediate support, but to cultivate a new generation of capable and self-sustaining developers who will contribute meaningfully to the housing sector. 

    “By aligning with best practices and leveraging past lessons, the department and the NHFC are setting the stage for long-term transformation and economic inclusion,” Simelane said. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurates National Green Tribunal’s National Conference on Environment – 2025, in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurates National Green Tribunal’s National Conference on Environment – 2025, in New Delhi

    Union Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav emphasizes India’s commitment to Climate Action and Sustainable Development

    Two-Day Event to deliberate on Critical Environmental Issues, Policy Gaps and Promote Sustainable Management

    Posted On: 29 MAR 2025 6:56PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a two-day National Conference on ‘Environment – 2025’ in New Delhi today. The inaugural session was graced by Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, Hon’ble Justice Vikram Nath, Judge, Supreme Court of India, Shri R. Venkataramani, Attorney General for India, in the presence of Hon’ble Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson of National Green Tribunal (NGT).

    The two-day conference is being organised by the National Green Tribunal at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. This conference, aims at deliberating on critical environmental issues and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, witnessed the participation of prominent dignitaries, legal experts, environmentalists, and policymakers.

    Addressing the inaugural session, Hon’ble President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, emphasised the importance of balancing development with environmental protection, focussing on our responsibility to ensure progress while preventing destruction. She noted that
    it is our moral responsibility to provide a legacy of a clean environment to the coming generations. (Detailed Press Release: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2116543)

    Addressing the august gathering, Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, quoted the mantra ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah’, and emphasized that environmental protection is in Indian ethos. It extends to encompass flora, fauna, mountains, rivers, and all components of the environment, he stated.

    Shri Yadav stated that India reserves Her right to grow responsibly based on our national circumstances. As a show of our commitment to climate action, India has fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments on green energy nine years ahead of the 2030 target. He further emphasized that the climate anxiety which has gripped the world cannot force India to give up its right to ensure food, water, energy, and a quality to its 140-crore people. India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is confidently striking a balance between challenges and opportunities.

    Hon’ble Justice Vikram Nath, Judge, Supreme Court of India emphasized that when we unite, we benefit a wide range of causes. Furthermore, he highlighted that the environment is not an external entity, but intrinsically connected to our health and culture.

    Shri R. Venkataramani, Attorney General for India emphasised that human behaviour should go beyond mere profit-making, aiming instead to ensure a better quality of life for future generations.

    In his welcome address, Hon’ble Justice Prakash Shrivastava, the Chairperson of NGT, highlighted that what makes this conference truly exceptional is its inclusivity, bringing together jurists, experts, faculty, and passionate students from various institutions, all united by a common vision of sustainability and environmental stewardship. He emphasized that our efforts to safeguard the environment are not only a responsibility but also a vital safeguard for our future.

    Following the inaugural session, two technical sessions took place. The first, on Air Quality Monitoring and Management, was chaired by Hon’ble Justice Joymalya Bagchi, Judge, Supreme Court of India. It was noted that true progress is not measured solely in economic terms, but by our ability to balance development with environmental sustainability and focused on the growing issue of air pollution. Experts including Dr. Randeep Guleria, Chairman, Institute of Internal Medicine, Medanta, Dr. Dilip Ganguly, IIT Delhi, Sh. Tanmay Kumar, Secretary, MoEF&CC, and Hon’ble Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana, NGT, Chennai, deliberated on the causes, regulatory frameworks, and possible solutions to mitigate air pollution.

    The second technical session on Water Quality Management and River Rejuvenation was presided over by Hon’ble Justice Pratibha M. Singh, Judge, Delhi High Court. It discussed the issue of water pollution, highlighting Switzerland’s European Rhine River restoration model and the case of Namibia, while comparing the situation in India. She also provided practical solutions, including community collaboration, compliance and transparency mechanisms, and the adoption of scientific innovations and explored the pressing concerns of water pollution, over-extraction of groundwater, and conservation strategies. Panelists Dr. M.K. Goel, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Dr. Rajiv Kumar Mittal, DG (National Mission for Clean Ganga), and Hon’ble Justice B. Amit Sthalekar, NGT, Kolkata, discussed legislative measures, government initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission, and community-driven solutions for sustainable water management. The session was moderated by Prof. A.K. Gosain, Former Professor, IIT Delhi.

    The first day of the conference concluded with thought-provoking discussions, setting the stage for further deliberations tomorrow. The second day of the conference will feature third technical session on Forest Conservation and Biodiversity Protection and fourth technical session will include the reflections on the key takeaways from first three technical sessions.

    *****

    VM/GS

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: World-renowned museum and institution representatives share expertise at Museum Summit 2025 (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         In partnership with The Guimet – National Museum of Asian Arts (France), the Leisure and Cultural Services Department commenced the Museum Summit 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre today (March 28). Themed “Going Beyond”, the two-day Summit has brought together over 30 leading figures and professionals from world-renowned museums and institutions in 17 countries to exchange and share their professional experiences, research findings and innovative concepts. Five countries including Egypt, Hungary, Norway, Qatar and Türkiye, are new participants this year.
         
         The Museum Summit this year is its fourth edition since the inaugural one in 2017. Officiating at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, highlighted that the Summit had established itself not only as a highly acclaimed international event in the museum world, but also an iconic mega event in the city’s vibrant cultural calendar.
     
         Mr Cheuk said that the Summit had recorded a total registration of over 7 000 participants, with about one-third from the Mainland and overseas, and two delegations comprising over 40 museum experts from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Museum Alliance and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). This stellar mix is a strong testament to the increasing importance of the Summit and Hong Kong’s position as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
         
         The President of The Guimet – National Museum of Asian Arts (France), Dr Yannick Lintz, also delivered an opening address at the Summit.
     
         The Summit features four thematic sessions, namely “Museums + Tourism”, “Museums + Technology”, “Museums + Sustainability”, and “Museums + Wellness”. The discussions will encompass how museums could leverage the advantages brought by the tourism industry and technological advances to promote sustainable development as well as mental and physical well-being.

         For details of the Museum Summit 2025, please visit www.museumsummit.gov.hk.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Forces Conduct Significant Kinetic Strike Targeting ISIS-Somalia

    Source: United States AFRICOM

    In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike against multiple ISIS-Somalia targets on March 29, 2025.

    The airstrike occurred Southeast of Bosasso, Puntland, in Northeastern Somalia.

    AFRICOM’s initial assessment is that multiple ISIS-Somalia operatives were killed and no civilians were harmed.

    ISIS-Somalia has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. and partner forces. This group’s malicious efforts threaten U.S. security interests.

    AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia’s ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our civilians abroad.

    Specific details about the operation will not be released to ensure continued operations security.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Looking beyond GDP to reach the Sustainable Development Goals

    Source: United Nations 2

    Economic Development

    Countries should consider looking beyond Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, as the key measure of economic growth to achieve the ambitious Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UN policymakers have suggested.   

    The initiative is in line with UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s longstanding assertion that “moving beyond GDP is fundamental to building an economic system that gives value to what counts – human well-being – now and in the future, and for everyone”.

    While GDP has become the gold standard by which economic development is judged, it was never intended to encompass the overall wellbeing and progress of any single nation.  

    Neither does it capture the value of human, social or nature capital, explained Özge Aydogan, Director of UN Geneva’s Beyond Lab, which takes a lead thinking about social innovation and sustainability. 

    UN Geneva/Emma Schneider

    Özge Aydogan, Director of UN Geneva’s Beyond Lab.

    “That’s something that GDP measures very poorly – or not at all, in fact,” Ms. Aydogan said, “so, the whole movement around ‘Beyond GDP’ is to look into ways of moving from an extractive economy – which we are on right now – into an economy where capital…is not only created for economic purposes that only benefit a few, but actually for people and planet.” 

    In a bid to integrate untapped human capital, natural resources and wellbeing into how a country’s wealth might be calculated in future, the Beyond Lab has been brainstorming with government officials, researchers and thought leaders in sustainability.

    Regenerative economies 

    But what policymakers still haven’t worked out is what a post-GDP economy would look like – neither have they agreed on the best path to get there. 

    For Ms. Aydogan, an ideal scenario for 2050 would be a regenerative economy – one that isn’t only extracting resources to derive revenue, but rather, creating wealth through untapped virtual assets.

    In practical terms, countries would factor in other wealth-creating assets, such as a country’s natural resources. 

    “You replenish nature, for instance,” she explained, adding that more holistic metrics would not necessarily replace GDP. “What we’re really actually looking into is to complement GDP.”

    © UNICEF/Karin Schermbrucker

    An mother and her baby are among those benefiting from services offered at a UNICEF-supported health centre in Malawi.

    Measuring happiness

    Alternative economic metrics have been around for some time. In 1972, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck of the small, landlocked Asian state of Bhutan coined the Gross National Happiness index.  

    It captures four areas: sustainable development, conservation of the environment, preservation and promotion of culture – and good governance.

    Likewise, the Human Development Index is often cited as another alternative to evaluate the overall development and well-being of a nation, taking into account life expectancy, standards of living, and education. 

    An increasing amount of research reveals that the GDP model is insufficient, says Nathalie Bernasconi of the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) – and change-makers must find ways to translate the scientific evidence into national policies. 

    They should also create incentives for governments to move away from an outdated, GDP-heavy paradigm that was created in the 1930s, in the aftermath of the Great Depression, by the economist Simon Kuznets to measure economic output and help policymakers respond to the crisis.

    “GDP alone cannot guide us towards this future,” said Ms. Bernasconi, who is Vice-President of Global Strategies and Managing Director for Europe at IISD.

    Not sustainable

    GDP is not necessarily a reliable indicator of sustainability and can even increase after costly accidents such as oil spills, owing to intensive clean-up operations, as was the case with the BP Deepwater Horizon oil disaster in 2010.

    Another environmental disaster in Alaska in 1989 – the Exxon Valdez spill – temporarily  boosted GDP in the United States, thanks to job creation and a rise in demand for services.

    But while the tragedy initially inflated GDP, it also caused pervasive harm to the ecosystem and local communities – long-term losses not captured by the indicator.

    “Why do we value dead things? Why value a dead tree, rather than the living tree providing oxygen?” said Bingying Lou of the Beyond Lab, citing an indigenous environmental activist.

    © WHO/Anna Kari

    The SDGs focus on eliminating poverty and providing people with opportunities to prosper.

    Multilateralism can fix debt crisis

    Among those supporting calls to think creatively about reforming GDP and to “recommit to multilateralism” to find solutions for heavily indebted countries held back by classic financial models created after the Second World War, is Ambassador Matthew Wilson of the Permanent Mission of Barbados to the UN in Geneva.

    “Recent months have shown that when you think you’re beyond – something, or someone, pulls you right back in,” he said.

    Mr. Wilson added that while multilateralism has not worked perfectly, the world would be in a worse position without it.  

    We need to be forward-thinking but also active in solving issues like debt and development assistance, the ambassador stressed.

    ‘Status quo not viable anymore’

    Whether politicians will venture away from campaigns focused on how much they have grown GDP and adopt other measurements, remains to be seen, said Ms. Aydogan.

    “We have been taught a certain way to look at the economy,” she said. “But at the same time, the fact that we’re hitting all these planetary boundaries…shows us that the status quo is just simply not viable anymore.”

    To take the discussion one step further, policymakers will convene at the International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville, Spain from June 30 to July 3, 2025, and at the World Social Summit in Doha, Qatar in November 2025.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –