nited Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced today the appointment of James Swan of the United States as his Special Representative for Somalia and Head of the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS). The Secretary-General expresses his gratitude to Mr. Swan for acting as Special Representative for Somalia and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM)/UNTMIS since May 2024, and is pleased that Mr. Swan accepted to continue to lead the United Nations in Somalia during this critical period.
Mr. Swan is an experienced diplomat with a long career in African countries facing complex political transitions. Prior to serving as acting Special Representative for Somalia and Head of UNSOM/UNTMIS as well as Special Representative for Somalia and Head of UNSOM (2019-2022), he worked in the United States Government as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (2013-2016), Special Representative for Somalia (2011-2013) and Ambassador to Djibouti (2008-2011).
In his earlier career, Mr. Swan was Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs (2006-2008) and Director of African Analysis in the US State Department’s Bureau of Intelligence and Research (2005-2006). Before assuming these positions, Mr. Swan held various assignments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Cameroon, Nicaragua and Haiti.
Mr. Swan holds a B.Sc. degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, an M.A. from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies, and a Master’s degree in Security Studies from the National War College, all in the United States. He is fluent in English and French.
Secretary-General António Guterres warned on Friday of a rapidly deteriorating crisis in South Sudan, calling for urgent dialogue, the immediate release of detained officials and renewed commitment to the 2018 peace agreement.
“All the dark clouds of a perfect storm have descended upon the people of the world’s newest country – and one of the poorest,” Mr. Guterres told reporters at UN Headquarters in New York.
After finally gaining independence from neighbouring Sudan in July 2011, civil war broke out in South Sudan in December 2013 between troops loyal to President Salva Kiir and opposition forces led by his rival Riek Machar, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths.
In 2018, a peace agreement ended the fighting and established a unity government.
However, the arrest of First Vice President and main opposition leader Mr. Machar on Wednesday – alongside mounting military clashes and reported attacks on civilian populations – signals a severe unravelling of the peace process and a direct threat to millions, the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan explained on Thursday.
Combined with growing regional spillover from the conflict in neighbouring Sudan, Mr. Guterres painted a dire picture of a country on the edge.
“Let’s not mince words,” he said. “What we are seeing is darkly reminiscent of the 2013 and 2016 civil wars, which killed 400,000 people.”
Multiple crises at once
South Sudan is now facing what the Secretary-General described as a security emergency, political upheaval, humanitarian catastrophe, displacement crisis, economic collapse and a severe funding shortfall – all at once.
Half the population is severely food insecure, he warned, while three out of four people require humanitarian assistance.
Meanwhile, over one million people have fled across the border from Sudan since fighting broke out there last year between rival militaries – and cholera has been reported, compounding the crisis.
“South Sudan may have fallen off the world’s radar,” Mr. Guterres said, “but we cannot let the situation fall over the abyss.”
Call for de-escalation and support
Mr. Guterres urged South Sudanese leaders to “put down the weapons” and “put all the people of South Sudan first.”
He called for the restoration of the Government of National Unity and the full implementation of the peace agreement, which remains the only legal path to free and fair elections in December 2026.
He also appealed to the regional and international community to speak with one voice in support of peace.
“We fully support the initiative to deploy the [African Union] Panel of the Wise,” he said, adding that he had spoken with the Chairperson of the AU Commission earlier in the day.
The Secretary-General described his long-standing connection to the people of South Sudan, recalling his first mission as High Commissioner for Refugees and his time spent with returnees.
“They had such enormous hopes and aspirations. But unfortunately, not the leadership they deserve.”
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ezenwa E. Olumba, Doctoral Research Fellow, Conflict, Violence, & Terrorism Research Centre, Royal Holloway University of London
France has handed over control to the Senegalese government of two military bases in Senegal’s capital, Dakar that it has used for decades. The move follows an announcement in late 2024 by Senegal’s president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, that all foreign troops would be required to leave the country.
“Senegal is an independent country, a sovereign nation, and sovereignty does not allow for the presence of foreign military bases,” Faye told Agence France-Presse in November.
Unlike in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, where military juntas have expelled French and American troops in recent years, this move comes from a democratically elected leader. Faye secured a decisive victory in Senegal’s 2024 presidential election and came to power despite efforts by the former president, Macky Sall, to extend his rule beyond constitutional limits.
Other democratic nations in west Africa seem to be reassessing their ties with western powers, too. The Ivory Coast, for example, has called for the end of its colonial-era military pact with France. And there are indications that US forces may soon be asked to leave Ghana.
The fact that democratically elected governments are taking a similar stance to military leaders in the region should prompt deeper reflection on the factors driving these decisions.
Younger generations of African leaders, shaped by decades of witnessing foreign-backed governments fail to boost development and security, are increasingly focused on decolonising their countries. This shift has also been driven by growing public awareness of the exploitation of Africa’s natural resources by some former colonial powers.
To further distance itself from France, the Senegalese government plans to replace the CFA franc with a national currency. The CFA franc, which is controlled by the French treasury, is a currency used in 14 countries in west and central Africa. It gives French companies easier access to natural resources in African countries where it is used.
The move to replace it could test Senegal’s relationship with France. In 2019, when Italy’s former deputy prime minister, Luigi Di Maio, raised concerns about the impact of the CFA franc on Africa’s development, the French president, Emmanuel Macron, dismissed the issue, stating: “I will not respond”.
Alongside economic reforms, Senegal is also reshaping its public spaces. It will soon begin renaming streets and landmarks that were previously associated with colonial figures. And the government wants to update school textbooks and create a department that will manage how Senegal’s national heritage is documented.
There is a broader regional movement to replace colonial-era street names. In Niger’s capital, Niamey, Avenue de Gaulle, named after the former French general and statesman, has been renamed Avenue Djibo Bakary after the city’s first post-independence mayor.
Similar efforts are underway in central Africa. In March 2025, a court ruling in Uganda mandated the removal of British colonial monuments and renaming streets that honour “crooks and historical figureheads”.
Among the figures affected include Maj. Gen. Henry Edward Colville, an early commissioner of the Uganda Protectorate, and Frederick Lugard, a key colonial administrator in Africa. Lugard also played a central role in creating Nigeria for British colonial rule.
Political shifts in the Sahel
A political shift seems to be taking place in Africa, particularly in the Sahel. In the 1960s, during the early years of African independence movements, many leaders from the continent took up arms against the colonial establishment.
This included Amílcar Cabral, leader of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde in Guinea-Bissau, as well as Nelson Mandela, who co-founded Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress party in South Africa.
They were treated as threats to the colonial order, at least outside their own supporter base. Cabral was assassinated in 1973 by political rivals, with the alleged support of the Portuguese security establishment.
Nelson Mandela, who was imprisoned for 27 years by the South African apartheid regime he opposed, was on the US government’s terrorist list until 2008 despite being released from custody in 1993 and becoming the country’s first black president in 1994.
The rhetoric and actions of many military-led governments in the Sahel, along with some democratically elected leaders, echo those of Africa’s early independence movements. Like their predecessors, these leaders are often condemned by foreign governments, yet they appear to have growing support among people in the region.
Public rallies held by Captain Ibrahim Traoré in Burkina Faso regularly draw large crowds. The same is true for the military leaders in Niger. Traoré was even welcomed by cheering crowds during the recent inaugurations of democratically elected presidents in Senegal and Ghana.
This is an unusual reception for a leader who came to power through a military coup. Such moments reflect the sentiment of millions who see these leaders less as military rulers and more as symbols of resistance against foreign influence.
Some analysts have warned of instability following the expulsion of foreign troops from the Sahel. But decades of foreign military interventions have done little to improve security in the region. Counterinsurgency operations have not only failed to contain violence – the influence of insurgent groups has grown.
According to a February 2025 report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, the Sahel has been the epicentre of violence in Africa for four consecutive years. More than 10,000 deaths were attributed to militant Islamist violence in the region throughout 2024, with civilians being the primary targets.
Africa must take the lead in addressing its security and economic challenges, engaging with international partners on equal terms rather than as a passive participant. African leaders should prioritise security, education and development while opening dialogue with disaffected groups that feel excluded from political and economic opportunities.
Ezenwa E. Olumba does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, businesses are looking for ways to simplify how they perform complex tasks. These intricate tasks can vary and involve anything from navigating multiple steps or business processes, dependencies, resources, stakeholders and uncertainties.
Samsung Galaxy S25 series has now set the standard for what an AI-enabled phone can do as a true AI companion. Galaxy AI capabilities are now able to integrate AI agents allowing businesses to perform complex tasks across apps, services and even devices.
Together with Google, Samsung is reshaping the future of Android and evolving it into the revolutionary AI-integrated OS1. This integrated collaboration is able to unlock powerful AI experiences that integrate diverse AI agents, such as Bixby, Gauss, Gemini, Chat GPT and Co-pilot. Samsung worked closely with Google to provide this latest, most cutting-edge AI innovations on Galaxy S25 series through One UI 72.
This partnership, which started from a very early development stage, introduces native integration of Gemini on Galaxy devices for the first time and transforms the Galaxy AI experience to be more intuitive through multimodal capabilities. Businesses can now look forward to Gemini – an innovative feature that performs seamless actions across multiple apps, so every task takes fewer steps.
To top this off – Intuitive, personalised AI is redefining how Samsung interacts with the world with the most natural, context-aware and personalised experiences. The Galaxy S25 series now also comes with up to six-months free access to Gemini Advanced. The direct business benefit of Gemini Advanced feature is that it comes with Samsung’s most capable AI models and priority access to the newest features like Gems, custom AI experts for any topic and Deep Research, which acts as your personal AI research assistant.
It is very clear from these ground-breaking business features that Samsung aims to deliver an optimised AI experience by leveraging a variety of these incredible AI agents effectively. The Galaxy AI platform introduced with Galaxy S25 series has now been optimised for AI from the framework level, allowing various AI agents to effortlessly control multiple apps. These AI agents are able to work seamlessly in the background to perform tasks tailored to the user’s needs, simplifying complex business tasks.
Many of these innovative Gemini features included in Galaxy S25 were developed to ensure an optimised user experience – thanks to the incredible collaboration that was formed with Google from the early stages. Bixby, Samsung’s voice-based AI agent specialised in device control, will now also play a pivotal role in advancing Home AI by enabling more intuitive and effortless control of Galaxy devices, as well as seamless connectivity and management of Samsung products like TVs and home appliances.
But, it does not end there. Samsung knows just how important data privacy and safety is to businesses. That is why it has also built a broader AI ecosystems with AI-integrated OS. The cloud-based AI security features, enhanced in collaboration with Google, uphold the highest standards of data privacy and give you the choice to enable or opt out of Google Gemini.
Users can now choose whether to enable Google Gemini or opt out based on their preferences. This cloud-based AI security feature now ensures that user input data is immediately deleted as soon as the output is created. No personal information is accessed without authorisation.
And then there’s the remarkably seamless actions across apps/Gemini Live feature that is able to achieve the most cutting-edge AI experiences on Galaxy S25 series. In this case as well, Samsung has worked closely with partners that include both Google and Qualcomm to enhance AI capabilities and boost device performance. Together, these partners have been able to bring Gemini and Gemini Live to Galaxy S25 series, making it simpler for businesses to not only perform complex tasks, but also be context-aware.
Now, there’s also the Multimodal Search – a new mobile search experience based on Galaxy S25 series’ capacity to interpret text, voice, images, video and even gestures. Businesses can now stop searching and instead be able to start finding more of what they want. The all-enhanced Circle3 to Search feature now understands the context of everything on your screen to anticipate your needs. It transforms the way we use devices with a new conversational, multimodal user interface, now introduced on Galaxy S25 series.
Galaxy AI is now integrated naturally into every touch point of the interface and with One UI 7, Samsung has created an experience where every interaction feels effortless. Also, complemented by AI Select that is built mainly for contextual search – it now suggests solutions, next actions and useful information based on what’s on your screen – all of this without having to manually activate relevant apps.
And furthermore, the barrier-breaking communication capability that is able to record and analyse calls with on-device transcript and AI summary for calls + on-device transcript and AI summary – allows businesses to communicate freely across countries with increased language support. And with the introduction of Samsung’s innovative Galaxy AI – this comprehensive artificial system is now able to not only enhance but elevate individual and business experiences across their Galaxy devices.
Importantly, Samsung’s Galaxy AI vision remains. The global electronics giant seeks to democratise the benefits of mobile AI innovation so that its business users can enjoy barrier-free communication, maximise their productivity, unleash creativity and better track their health in their daily lives.
Availability
The Galaxy S25 series will be available for official retail sale in South Africa starting 14 February 2025. The Galaxy S25 Ultra comes in the following colours4 in Titanium Silverblue, Titanium Black, Titanium Whitesilver and Titanium Gray. Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ will be available in Navy, Silver Shadow, Icyblue and Mint4.
South African customers can pre-order the Galaxy S25 series through Samsung’s official online store, Samsung Shop App and participating retail partners.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Louisville, KY – On March 19, 2025, a federal grand jury in Louisville charged 5 Louisville residents in an indictment involving fentanyl and firearms offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Abdulkadir Malindo, 21, Abdulkadir Ali, 21, Hussein Hussein, 19, Henry Martinez, 20, and Bilal Malindo, 19, are each charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl between October 28, 2024, and March 5, 2025.
Abdulkadir Malindo is also charged with twelve counts of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, two counts of distribution of fentanyl, seven counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, one count of illegal possession of a machine gun, and one count of firearms trafficking. On the following dates, Abdulkadir Malindo possessed the listed firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
On November 9, 2024, Abdulkadir Malindo possessed a Plumcrazy Firearms, Gen II, multi-caliber pistol.
On December 3, 2024, Abdulkadir Malindo possessed a P80, 9-millimeter pistol.
On December 5, 2024, Abdulkadir Malindo possessed an American Tactical Imports, Omni Hybrid, multi-caliber pistol.
On December 12, 2024, Abdulkadir Malindo possessed a Glock Switch. A Glock Switch device allows a semi-automatic handgun to function as an automatic and is defined as a machine gun under federal law.
On January 2, 2025, Abdulkadir Malindo possessed a Glock, Model 19X, 9-millimeter pistol.
On January 17, 2025, Abdulkadir Malindo possessed a Bear Creek Arsenal, Model BCA19, multi-caliber pistol and a Canik55, Model TP-9SF, 9-millimeter pistol.
On March 5, 2025, Abdulkadir Malindo possessed a Palmetto, multi-caliber rifle, a Sig Sauer, Model P226, .40 caliber pistol, a Canik, 9-millimeter pistol, and a Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber pistol.
Abdulkadir Ali is also charged with one count of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Hussein Hussein is also charged with one count of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On November 21, 2024, Hussein possessed a Radical Firearms, Model RF-15, multi-caliber pistol.
Henry Martinez is also charged with one count of distribution of fentanyl.
Bilal Malindo is also charged with two counts of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Abdulkadir Malindo, Ali, Hussein,and Martinez have been arrested andmade their initial court appearances this week before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Bilal Malindo is in state custody and will make an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge on a later date.
If convicted, Abdulkadir Malindo faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years in prison, Abdulkadir Ali faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, Hussein Hussein faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, Henry Martinez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, and Bilal Malindo faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. All the defendants face a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The cases are being investigated by the ATF, DEA, HSI, KSP, and LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts is prosecuting the cases.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that Marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal grand jury has indicted Sarah Maud Jess, 61, of Capitol Heights, Maryland. Jess is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, two counts of distribution of fentanyl, one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm and ammunition by an illegal alien, and reentry of an alien removed after conviction for an aggravated felony.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea with Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore; Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division; Special Agent in Charge William DelBagno, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office; Chief Marc R. Yamada, Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD); and Police Chief Malik Aziz, Prince George’s County Police Department (PGCPD).
According to the indictment, Jess engaged in a conspiracy to distribute at least 40 grams of fentanyl between November 2023 and October 2024. She also distributed 40 grams or more of fentanyl on specific dates in June and September 2024. Additionally, Jess is charged with possessing with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl on October 2, 2024; illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition on the same date; and as an alien who was previously removed from the United States after being convicted of an aggravated felony. Jess was found in the United States without receiving permission to reapply for admission into the country as required by law.
If convicted, Jess faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 40 years for the drug charges; up to 15 years for the firearm charge; and up to 20 years for the aggravated illegal reentry charge. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.
A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, DEA, FBI, MCPD, and PGCPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Wright and Nicholas Potter who are prosecuting the federal case.
[Opening remarks below; full transcript to follow shortly]
Let me begin by addressing some breaking news – the terrible earthquake that hit parts of Southeast Asia today.
We send our condolences to the government and peoples of the region.
The United Nations system is mobilizing to help those in need.
Ladies and gentlemen of the press,
I want to focus today on the dramatic and dire situation that is unfolding in South Sudan.
All the dark clouds of a perfect storm have descended upon the people of the world’s newest country – and one of the poorest.
A security emergency – with intensifying clashes; aerial bombing of civilians — including women and children; the presence of external forces; and an ever-growing regional dimension to the conflict.
Political upheaval – culminating most recently with the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar. The peace agreement is in shambles.
A humanitarian nightmare – with about three out of four South Sudanese needing assistance, half the population severely food insecure, and cholera breaking out.
A displacement crisis – with more than one million people crossing the border from Sudan since fighting began there.
An economic meltdown – with oil revenue plummeting and inflation skyrocketing 300%.
Finally, a funding crisis – with much of the already limited humanitarian and development aid drying up.
Meanwhile, ethnic and political targeting by security forces – coupled with the spread of misinformation on social media – is lighting the fuse for even worse.
Let’s not mince words: what we are seeing is darkly reminiscent of the 2013 and 2016 civil wars, which killed 400,000 people.
Our UN Mission in South Sudan is working around the clock to ease tensions – engaging all parties and boosting protection of civilians. But we face operational limitations.
For the sake of the long-suffering people of South Sudan, it is time for dialogue and de-escalation.
The Horn of Africa is already in turmoil and cannot afford another conflict. Nor can the people of South Sudan.
To the leaders of that country, I say:
End the politics of confrontation. Release detained military and civilian officials now. Fully restore the Government of National Unity.
And vigorously implement the promises you made through your commitments to the peace agreement – which is the only legal framework to peaceful, free and fair elections in December 2026.
I also urge the regional and international community, as guarantors of the peace agreement, to speak with one voice in support of the peace process and against any attempts to undermine it.
I just spoke with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission this morning.
We fully support the AU initiative to deploy the Panel of the Wise – as well as the efforts of the Special Envoy of President Ruto of Kenya.
We will be working in close cooperation with the AU and with IGAD.
The people of South Sudan are close to my heart.
On my very first visit as High Commissioner for Refugees, I was several days with South Sudanese refugees – and years later accompanied them across the border finally on their way home.
I will never forget the decency at their very core.
They had such enormous hopes and aspirations.
But unfortunately, not the leadership they deserve.
At this critical hour, the people of South Sudan need an infusion of support.
Diplomatic and political support for peace.
And financial support for lifesaving aid.
South Sudan may have fallen off the world’s radar, but we cannot let the situation fall over the abyss.
Now more than ever, the leaders of South Sudan must hear a clear, unified and resounding message:
Put down the weapons. Put all the people of South Sudan first.
BW Energy enters into new increased Reserve Based Lending facility
BW Energy is pleased to announce an up to USD 500 million Reserve Based Lending (RBL) facility. The new facility replaces the USD 200 million RBL from 2022, which was increased to USD 300 million in 2023. The funds will be used together with cash-flow from operations to finance the further development of the Company.
The facility has an initial commitment of USD 400 million, which can be expanded with an additional USD 100 million. The senior secured long-term debt facility matures on 1 October 2030.
“We are pleased to conclude the amend, extend and increase of the RBL with strong interest from several international banks. The increased facility provides further liquidity to finance BW Energy’s development activities and drive our future production growth and long-term value creation, at a competitive interest margin,” said Brice Morlot, the CFO of BW Energy.
Mauritius Commercial Bank Limited is the Facility Agent for the RBL facility, while SCB and Rand Merchant Bank are Joint Technical banks. The syndicate further includes NedBank Group and ABSA Group (documentation bank), alongside SHELL, the offtaker of oil from the Dussafu license.
For further information, please contact:
Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy, +33.7.81.11.41.16
ir@bwenergy.com
About BW Energy:
BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025.
This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
The River Ouse near Lewes in Sussex, England.Melanie Hobson / shutterstock
A district council in England has passed a motion to grant its local river the rights to flow freely, to be free from pollution and to enjoy its native biodiversity. The move by Lewes District Council in East Sussex to recognise the fundamental rights of the River Ouse is the first of its kind in the UK.
The Ouse (not to be confused with larger rivers of the same name in Yorkshire and East Anglia) flows southwards for 35 miles into the English Channel and suffers from the usual problems afflicting many rivers in the UK: chemical pollution, sewage dumping and so on.
As a legal academic who researches exactly these sorts of rights, I was excited to see the news from Lewes (even if the council’s motions ultimately can’t overrule national laws). But simply granting a river some rights isn’t enough. We now need to think about who will actually defend these rights.
This may mean appointing someone to represent the rights of the river. Who these representatives are, and how they think about nature and conservation, can be as important as the granting of these rights in the first place.
Appointing representatives who care about their own personal and property interests would be a grave mistake, as would appointing anyone who prioritises the rights of humans to a healthy environment over a more intrinsic right of nature (remember: the idea is that the River Ouse has rights in itself and shouldn’t need to demonstrate its worth to humans).
As further rivers, lakes, forests and more are granted rights like the Ouse, we’ll need to train up an army of people willing to represent the rights of nature.
Natural entities should have legal rights
The law professor Christopher Stone pioneered the rights of nature concept back in the 1970s. He argued that natural entities, like rivers or forests, should have legal rights and that a “guardian” or representative should be appointed to defend those rights in court when they are threatened.
Some legal systems have adopted this model. For example, in New Zealand, the Whanganui River was granted legal personhood, and two “human faces” were appointed to act and speak on its behalf. Their duties are outlined in a 2017 act, which specifies that these representatives must have the skills, knowledge and experience needed to effectively advocate for the river’s rights.
The Whanganui River was awarded legal personhood in 2017 due to its spiritual importance for local Māori people. Ron Kolet / shutterstock
But even as rights of nature are being considered in many countries, there is still little consideration of who will represent these rights effectively. For instance, back in 2008 Ecuador became the first country to grant the rights of nature in its constitution. However the constitution states that “all persons” are representatives of the rights of nature. This is simply impractical: we can’t expect every citizen to truly care about the rights of nature.
Efforts to apply the rights of nature in Ecuador have often failed. Legal challenges can become highly politicised and there is little legal infrastructure beyond general constitutional principles.
For example, in a case brought after road builders had dumped material into the Vilcabamba River, plaintiffs claimed to represent nature in court. However, they were not genuinely advocating for the river’s rights – their main concern was protecting their downstream property.
An ecocentric perspective
Ultimately, defending the rights of nature in court will be a struggle if the nature in question – the river, forest or lake – is not represented by someone with an ecocentric perspective. That means prioritising the intrinsic value of nature itself, rather than focusing on how it can serve human interests.
To protect it from mining and deforestation, Los Cedros cloud forest was awarded the same rights as people. Andreas Kay / flickr, CC BY-NC-SA
Ecocentric advocates have proved to be the most effective defenders of the rights of nature in many court cases. For example, in lawsuits involving Ecuador’s Los Cedros cloud forest and its marine ecosystems, ecocentric arguments helped secure stronger legal protections and even inspired the courts to grant further rights of nature.
One of the most common legal frameworks involves appointing “all persons”, “a person”, or “a resident” as representatives or protectors. For instance, Uganda’s National Environment Act 2019 states that anyone has the right to bring an action before a court “for any infringement of rights of nature”.
Similarly, the city of Toledo, Ohio, tried to introduce the Lake Erie bill of rights which stated that the city or any resident could act on behalf of the lake’s ecosystem. (The bill was declared unconstitutional by a federal court in 2020 and did not become the law).
Having such broad representation can make these legal protections less effective. This is what Stone, the law professor, envisioned back in the 70s: representatives should be trained to view nature as having intrinsic value – the very reason it is granted rights – and to protect it on that basis.
There are some promising examples. Guardians were appointed to protect the Magpie River in Canada, for instance, after it was granted legal personhood in 2022. Their responsibilities include participating – on behalf of the river itself – in any consultations on projects that might affect the river.
When the River Atrato in Colombia was also granted legal rights, the court required the formation of a commission (with representatives from the state and local communities) to train and oversee the work of the guardians.
Moves to give rights to nature are promising. But from Colombia to Canada to Sussex, we’ll need a whole army of nature protectors to actually enforce those rights.
Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?
Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – “The new Congolese refugees who arrived in Burundi on March 15, 2025, are currently living a difficult life due to the lack of continuous support from United Nations agencies and international humanitarian organizations,” reads a statement from the Congolese human rights organization ACMEJ, sent to Fides. “Fortunately, the Burundian authorities continue to welcome the refugees and ensure a very high level of protection and security,” continues the statement from the civil society association based in the Congolese province of South Kivu.More than 63,000 Congolese from South Kivu province have been forced to flee due to the advance of the M23 troops, who have taken over the capital of this province in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (see Fides, 17/2/2025).”Most of these Congolese refugees in Rugombo, in the Burundian province of Cibitoke, consider themselves fortunate to have good diplomatic relations between Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo,” the ACMEJ statement reads. “The refugees ask UNHCR personnel working in Burundi to show the same goodwill by applying the guiding principles of international refugee law,” the statement continues.According to the ACMEJ, “the Congolese refugees would not be willing to go to the new camp in Rutana, on the border with Tanzania,” which is located in the opposite direction from the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, which would further displace these people from their homes. The new refugee camp is, in fact, more than 200 km from the camp in Rugombo. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 28/3/2025)
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The report on local government revenue and expenditure for the second quarter of the 2024/25 financial year shows that conditional grants were underspent by municipalities, National Treasury said on Friday.
These grants were allocated for programmes to support the development of infrastructure, fund emergency repairs after unforeseen disasters, fund the implementation of electrification projects, fund the upgrade of informal settlements as well as developing bulk water and wastewater infrastructure.
“Six of the infrastructure grants have underperformed, with expenditure falling below 40% of their allocated budgets. The Municipal Disaster Recovery Grant (MDRG) reported an expenditure of just 16.9%, while the Integrated National Electrification Programme (Municipal) Grant (INEP) had an expenditure of 38.4%.
“The Metro Informal Settlements Partnership Grant (ISUPG) showed an expenditure of 34.7%, the Neighbourhood Development Partnership Grant (NDPG) had 33.2%, the Public Transport Network Grant (PTNG) reported 22%, and the Rural Roads Assets Management Systems Grant (RRAMS) stood at 28.8%,” Treasury explained.
The report covers the performance against the adopted budgets of local government for the second quarter of the municipal financial year ending on 31 December 2024 and includes spending against conditional grant allocations for the same time frame.
“The MDRG, in particular, demonstrated significant underperformance in the second quarter of the previous financial year, with an expenditure of only 16.9%. This grant has consistently underperformed in recent years, with little improvement, indicating ongoing challenges in its effective utilisation by municipalities.
“The Integrated Urban Development Grant (IUDG) and the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) were the best-performing grants in this quarter, maintaining their strong performance from the first quarter. The IUDG recorded an expenditure of 52% against a total allocation of R1.1 billion, while the MIG achieved 54.9 % of its R17 billion allocation,” National Treasury said.
The Department of Water and Sanitation grants, which administers the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) and the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG), also showed positive performance, albeit at lower expenditure rates compared to the second quarter of the 2023/24 financial year.
However, overall grant performance this quarter was poor compared to the same period in the previous financial year. As of 31 December 2024, municipalities were allocated R44.1 billion for direct conditional grants, of which R28.2 billion has been transferred.
The National Transferring Officers (NTOs) reported spending of R18.4 billion, or 41.7 %, while municipalities reported spending of R12.8 billion, or 29.1% of the total allocation.
“As at 31 December 2024, aggregate spending by municipalities was 44.2 % or R287.5 billion of the total adopted expenditure budget of R649.9 billion. Aggregated billing and other revenue was 49.9 % or R325.5 billion of the total adopted revenue budget of R652.3 billion.
“Capital expenditure amounts to R14.3 billion or 18.4% of the adopted capital budget of R77.4 billion. The adopted operating expenditure budget amounts to R572.5 billion, of which R273.2 billion (47.7%) was spent by 31 December 2024,” National Treasury said. –SAnews.gov.za
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to support initiatives that drive local economic transformation and attract investors to the province.
Ntuli was speaking at the Nquthu Investment Promotion Breakfast, held at the iNcome Museum, in Inquthu under the uMzinyathi District Municipality, central KwaZulu-Natal.
Thursday’s breakfast highlighted a wide range of investment opportunities aimed at unlocking the region’s potential in agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and small business development.
The engagement also underscored the provincial government’s support for local economic development and investor mobilisation in rural areas. The gathering brought together government leaders, local entrepreneurs, and potential investors for meaningful dialogue and strategic partnerships.
The Premier commended the initiative, noting its alignment with the 7th Administration’s mission to drive inclusive economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development across KwaZulu-Natal.
“We are intentional about taking investment conversations to every corner of our province, especially rural areas like iNquthu. By supporting platforms like this, we affirm our commitment to building a thriving, self-reliant economy that benefits all our people.” The Premier also emphasised the importance of local investment in transforming communities, reducing unemployment, and creating long-term prosperity.
He also encouraged stakeholders to seize the opportunities presented by the region’s natural assets and resilient communities. The breakfast marked another step forward in the province’s vision of equitable development, where no region is left behind in the journey toward economic transformation.
The Premier was accompanied by Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Thembeni Madlopha-Mthethwa. – SAnews.gov.za
Urgent action is required to turn the tide against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli said.
“We cannot allow our communities to live in fear. Ending GBVF requires all of us—leaders, police, traditional authorities, and citizens, to act together with urgency, conviction, and compassion,” Ntuli said.
This as he led a Crime Prevention Imbizo at Inkosi Mzondeni Civic Centre, in Mtubatuba on Thursday.
He called on the community of KwaMsane and the broader uMkhanyakude District to take a united stand against crime, particularly the devastating scourge of GBVF.
The Imbizo served as a platform for the Premier to engage directly with mayors, including law enforcement agencies, traditional leaders (Amakhosi), and community members on government-led strategies to address crime.
These include increased policing visibility, community-based safety initiatives, support services for survivors, and stronger partnerships between government and civil society.
The engagement aligns with the 7th Administration’s broader commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and dignified communities throughout KwaZulu-Natal.
It also reinforces a provincial call to action: “no more silence, no more tolerance, and no more inaction in the face of violence and crime.”
The event started with a symbolic Peace Walk against GBVF at the Inkosi Mtubatuba Local Municipality and ended at Mtuba Police Station.
Among the participants at the walk included local leaders, civil society organisations, youth, and ordinary community members, wo also sent a strong message that GBVF has no place in KwaZulu-Natal. – SAnews.gov.za
The international community has been called upon to scale up cervical cancer interventions and progress against the only noncommunicable disease that can be eliminated.
This call was made by the Government of South Africa, Unitaid and the World Health Organization (WHO) at the Group of Twenty (G20) Health Working Group meeting, which took place on Thursday in Zimbali, outside Durban.
According to the Department of Health, cervical cancer is preventable and potentially curable, as long as it is detected early and managed effectively. It is the second most common form of cancer among women in South Africa.
Statistics by the WHO show that the disease claimed the lives of almost 350 000 women globally in 2022.
“New vaccines, tests, and treatment technologies have transformed cervical cancer prevention in recent years, yet the disease continues to disproportionately impact women mostly in low- and middle-income countries where access to primary health care and preventive services are limited. Cervical cancer elimination would address a major gap in Women’s health,” the department said.
Speaking on the sidelines of the G20 health meeting, Unitaid’s Deputy Executive Director Tenu Avafia said Unitaid has invested US $81 million or R1.4 billion to bring down prices, increase volumes and address operational questions involved in cervical cancer screening and treatment to enable countries to scale up proven interventions with minimal risk.
“However, funding shortfalls still pose enormous challenges to building national cervical cancer elimination programs in low- and middle-income countries,” Avafia said.
Unitaid makes health products accessible, available and affordable for people who need them most.
Department of Health’s Director-General Dr Sandile Buthelezi said improving women’s health was not just a health issue but “an economic imperative”.
“It drives social stability, boosts productivity, and breaks the cycle of poverty. Global efforts to combat cervical cancer serve as a concrete illustration of how cooperation can advance women’s health and realize a shared goal to bring about the first-ever elimination of a cancer,” he said.
In 2020, the WHO launched the global strategy for cervical cancer elimination, the first-ever roadmap for the elimination of a cancer. Since then, countries have made enormous strides in rolling out new tools and services.
Vaccination against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) provides protection against infection that causes nearly all cases of cervical cancer.
And a package of screening and treatment tools – including HPV tests with the option for self-sampling and devices for quickly and easily removing pre-cancerous cells – make it possible to make lifesaving services available to women at lower levels of the health care system.
The health working group session called for a coordinated approach drawing on domestic resource mobilization, blended financing, and partnerships with multilateral development banks to scale these solutions, ensure long-term sustainability and reduce dependency on external aid.
Government asserted South Africa’s commitment to scaling up cervical cancer prevention programs nationwide with support from Unitaid, the WHO and other partners.
“The South African G20 health agenda promotes solidarity, equality and sustainability. It complements the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the development agenda of Africa as the world’s fastest-growing continent, and the Lusaka Agenda. It also focuses on rebuilding momentum to reach the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” the department said.
On Wednesday, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi reiterated the importance of nations reallocating resources towards health, strengthening global health partnerships, and exploring innovative financing mechanisms to address funding gaps.
The Minister used the platform to highlight South Africa’s commitment to universal health coverage (UHC) through the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, which aims to provide financial protection and efficient resource utilisation.
The three-day meeting which began on Wednesday, will conclude on Friday, 28 March 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reiterated that the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) decision to withdraw the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) should not be interpreted as a sign of defeat or abandonment of peace efforts.
“However, it should be seen as a confidence-building measure to ensure peace and stability in the eastern DRC,” the Deputy President told the Members of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, Cape Town on Thursday.
Two weeks ago, SADC announced its decision to withdraw the SAMIDRC force from eastern DRC, opting for a phased withdrawal.
Reports indicate that leaders from the 16-nation SADC have lost at least a dozen soldiers in the eastern DRC since January of this year.
Locally, 14 members of the South African Defence Force (SANDF) lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries as fighting in the Goma region intensified between 23 and 27 January.
These soldiers were part of the SAMIDRC, which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile told Members of the NCOP that South Africa remains committed and supportive to ongoing peacekeeping efforts on the continent in line with the country’s foreign policy vision of a “prosperous and peaceful continent”.
“South Africa’s contribution to peace and support operations should not be measured in isolation. As the country participates through missions, mandated and authorised by multilateral institutions such as United Nations and SADC,” he explained.
However, he acknowledged that the recent death of 14 “brave” SANDF soldiers in the DRC is a clear indication of these challenges.
Deputy President Mashatile sent his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased SANDF soldiers and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
The second commander-in-chief stated that South Africa welcomes the appointment of former President Kgalema Motlanthe, who will join a panel of former presidents tasked with mediating peace in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
This decision to include Motlanthe was made during a virtual joint summit of the SADC and the EAC on Monday.
“We welcome the recent progress and commitments made by EAC-SADC, and we also welcome the government of DRC and Rwanda’s commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
“The President and I will also continue interventions in South Sudan, to try and avert the return to full-scale war and holding of peaceful elections.”
The questions presented before him covered issues related to government’s plans to deliver quality water services to communities across all provinces and the progress achieved in facilitating the settlement of outstanding land claims.
Water
On ensuring quality and reliable water delivery to communities, he stated that water is a fundamental human right as specified in Chapter 2 of the country’s Constitution.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa has established a Water Task Team, which I am chairing, working with Ministers and Water Authorities to provide clean water and sanitation services to all communities.
“In executing its task, the Water Task Team has been conducting outreach programmes, inspections, and oversight visits to assess challenges in communities affected by water supply challenges.”
Land claims
He also addressed the issue of land claims, stating that the government’s commitment to finalising outstanding land claims remains a key priority.
“Over successive years, we have made good progress regarding the settlement of land claims and returning the land to those who were previously dispossessed. However, much more still needs to be done.”
To expedite land access and reform, he announced that the government is focused on concluding restitution cases.
This includes prioritising old-order claims, which will lead to the transfer of secure and legally registered tenure to claimants along with settlement packages.
Meanwhile, he said R11.6 billion will be allocated over the medium term to settle about 844 land restitution claims, with R3 billion earmarked to allocate 138 000 hectares of land. – SAnews.gov.za
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has confirmed that 23 South Africans – who were part of a group of 7 000 people from various countries – have been rescued from Myanmar.
“Our citizens returned to South Africa a few hours ago, assisted by DIRCO and the Border Management Authority. DIRCO facilitated the repatriation of the South African nationals and provided financial assistance,” the department said in a statement issued on Thursday afternoon.
Before leaving South Africa last year, these men and women were lured by an employment agency to Thailand under the pretences of lucrative jobs that were advertised on various social media platforms.
“These adverts promised the victims good salaries, free accommodation, comprehensive travel expenses, and other lucrative benefits. Once in Thailand, they were transported to Myanmar against their will.”
The victims were held captive for more than four months in a cybercrime compound in Myanmar, which borders Thailand.
“They were subjected to brutal treatment, including intimidation, physical torture, and forced labour. They were also compelled to engage in illicit activities, including online scams that targeted individuals worldwide.”
In addition, DIRCO said, they were under 24-hour armed security and a ransom of about R50 000 was demanded for their release.
“They were forced to work for 16 hours a day and were frequently beaten or tortured if they refused, and they survived on spoiled food and contaminated water without access to medical treatment.”
The department explained that the repatriation of the South African victims was part of the bilateral cooperation agreement to combat human trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime signed by Thailand and South Africa in 2023.
“The government is grateful for the assistance provided by Thai authorities in facilitating the repatriation of the victims.”
Victim support
The Department of Social Development (DSD) and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) have since conducted an initial screening of the victims to verify their identity and family information.
Following the screening interviews, the DPCI will transport the victims to health facilities to undergo health screenings.
Temporary accommodation will be provided for those from outside Gauteng, enabling them to reunite with their families and relatives, while those who live in the province will be transported home by DPCI.
Investigation
According to the department, the DPCI will investigate the matter and follow up appointments will be scheduled at a later stage with the victims to gather comprehensive statements, as their emotional and physical wellbeing must be taken into consideration.
“The DPCI will continue to work with all the relevant government departments to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the victims, as well as the successful arrest and conviction of traffickers in South Africa.”
The department said the South African government strongly condemns any acts of trafficking and has introduced relevant legislation to deal harshly with this heinous crime.
The government has urged citizens to exercise extreme caution when considering employment opportunities abroad.
“If the promise of employment is too good to be true, you must exercise caution and be suspicious.”
All countries with embassies and liaison offices in South Africa are listed on the DIRCO website www.dirco.gov.za .
Travellers are also advised to register on the DIRCO Travel Smart app, a digital platform that provides support and information to South African citizens travelling or residing in foreign countries.
However, those who suspect that their loved one or someone else is a victim of human trafficking can report the matter to the SAPS Crime Stop hotline on 08000 10111, the nearest police station, the DSD, or a designated child protection organisation.
“Your safety and well-being are in your hands. Stay vigilant and protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these malicious schemes. Let us all work together to stop trafficking in persons,” the department said.
Use the following helplines to report suspected incidents of human trafficking:
• Childline – 116
• Film and Publication Board – 0800 148 148
• GBV Command Centre – 0800 428 428
• National Human Trafficking Hotline – 0800 222 777. – SAnews.gov.za
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has welcomed the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) decision to allow for the continued use of the SASSA gold card until all the cards have been successfully replaced.
The decision by SARB comes after several engagements between SASSA and Postbank on several issues, including alternative payment methods for beneficiaries who have not migrated to the Postbank black card.
SASSA Acting Chief Executive Officer, Themba Matlou, said the decision has been made in the best interest of all the beneficiaries to safeguard their dignity, lessen panic, while ensuring their safety and easy access to their grants.
Matlou said he respects and abides by the decisions taken by the relevant banking authorities, including SARB. He also appealed to all gold card holders to still go out to change their card to Postbank black card sooner rather than later.
“We humbly plea to our beneficiaries to use this opportunity and not wait for the last hour, as this will further inconvenience them. From the onset, we listened to the cries of our beneficiaries and understood their frustration.
“This should not make you to relax, this should make you to wake up tomorrow, with less pressure, and change your card,” Matlou said in a statement on Friday.
Briefing the media on Thursday, following Cabinet’s meeting on Wednesday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the deadline for South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant beneficiaries to swop their SASSA gold cards for the new Postbank cards had been extended to 30 April 2025.
This is to allow SASSA and the Department of Social Development to complete the migration of the outstanding beneficiaries – SAnews.gov.za
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has on Friday opened a second sluice gate at the Vaal Dam to manage increasing water levels due to the continuous rainfall.
This follows the opening of the first sluice gate last weekend.
The opening of another sluice gate on Friday increased the outflow to approximately 240 cubic metres per second (mᵌ/s).
The department said that all six valves that were opened on Monday, have been closed.
“The dam is currently sitting at 106.52% and the increased outflows seek to keep the dam at 105%. The current water release by the two sluice gates is still within the safe operational limits and is not expected to lead to overtopping of riverbanks downstream.
“At Bloemhof Dam, levels are currently at 96.10% and the outflow of 400 mᵌ/s will remain unchanged to allow for the extra flows that are expected from Vaal Dam, and to keep water levels at the dam below 100.0%,” the department said in a statement on Friday. – SAnews.gov.za
The 2022 South African Public Relationship with Science (SAPRS) survey, a first of its kind for the country, has found that two-thirds (66%) of the public were “very” or “quite” interested in South African science and technology (S&T).
This was among the highlights of the SAPRS, which is the focus of a conference underway at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Gauteng.
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, released the report in December 2024 at the annual Science Forum South Africa.
This week various stakeholders have convened to discuss the survey and its implications for science engagement programmes, among others.
The Principal Investigator of the SAPRS Survey and a Distinguished Research Specialist at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), Dr Vijay Reddy, stated that the survey’s purpose is to monitor the public’s relationship with science, focusing on knowledge, attitudes, and engagement.
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) collaborated with the Equitable Education and Economies Research Programme of the HSRC on the survey.
The survey was conducted among adults aged 16 and older, selected from 500 areas across all nine provinces.
The survey showed that 71% of the public has confidence in universities and research organisations that produce S&T information.
According to SAPRS, 51% of those surveyed believed that scientists were honest about their work, which highlighted the need for greater transparency and public engagement.
The majority (76%), however, agreed that scientists make life better for people and provide answers that explain the world we live in (75%).
“The survey also showed that South African adults have a notable understanding of science knowledge,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, six in 10 adults reported they were aware of S&T and had some formal S&T knowledge, while three-quarters (75%) of the public had been exposed to at least one post-grade 9 science or mathematics subject in school.
The two-thirds of South African adults (66%) reported they were interested in S&T or wanted to know or learn more.
When it came to the country’s research priorities, those polled had the highest knowledge (79%) about the quality of education in South Africa.
Meanwhile, clean and efficient water supply ranked second (77%), energy supply third (76%), and access to good-quality food came in fourth (75%).
The lowest-ranked priorities were advanced technologies such as robotics (57%) and space science and astronomy (44%).
Acting Director-General of the DSTI, Gugulethu Zwane, said that the SAPRS survey results reflect that more needs to be done to provide equitable resources to all communities.
She said there was a need to move from temporary improvements to permanent solutions that ensure inclusive science engagement and science literacy.
“As we have said many times before, science affects everyone, and so – according to the ’nothing about us without us’ principle – all communities need to have at least some exposure to science. We need to rethink our approaches and ramp up our science outreach,” said Zwane.
In its 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation, the DSTI has committed to carrying out this survey every five years.
Preparations for the next survey will begin in the 2025/26 financial year.
“The report on the second survey should be completed and released by the end of the current administration’s term. The first survey has shown us where we stand as a nation and given us data that will serve as the foundation for future efforts. The work to improve the situation starts here, in this conference, today,” she added. – SAnews.gov.za
Human Settlements disaster relief teams from all spheres of government have arrived Amatole District Municipality, in Eastern Cape, to assess damage and give immediate help to communities affected by heavy storms.
The storms ripped through several municipalities on Tuesday, leaving a trail of destruction, including electricity infrastructure and properties.
The department said that after receiving notification on Tuesday, Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane, immediately deployed three teams from the Emergency Housing Unit to assess the situation and determine the kind of help necessary in relation to the provision of much needed shelter during these difficult times.
“The teams will do a verification process in the three affected municipalities in the Amatole District, which include Great Kei, Raymond Mhlaba and Amahlathi Local Municipalities. However, people in need of immediate accommodation have been temporarily housed in mass care centres available in the area,” the department said in a statement on Wednesday.
The Minister has also tasked officials to work around the clock to relocate other victims to the Temporary Emergency Housing units, with the assistance of the local municipalities.
Based on the preliminary report from the deployed teams, the department said there is a need to relocate families whose mud houses collapsed during storms to Temporary Residential Units (TRUs) and provide building materials for the communities to rebuild their destroyed structures.
“The team will have a clear magnitude of the of disaster once the verification process has been completed,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Sarah Wambui Chege monitors a patient in active labour and listens to the baby’s activity at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, a government county referral hospital serving the residents of Nairobi’s populous Eastlands area. Photo credit: WHO/Khadija Farah
Globally each year 287,000 women die in pregnancy or childbirth. Most maternal deaths are caused by severe bleeding, high blood pressure, pregnancy-related infections, complications from unsafe abortion, and underlying conditions that can be aggravated by pregnancy (such as HIV/AIDS and malaria).
Most maternal deaths are preventable with access to high quality healthcare. Ending preventable maternal death must remain at the top of the global agenda.
WHO works with a range of partners and national health authorities across its six Regions to strengthen maternal health services for all pregnant women. Read below powerful stories about a wide range of WHO activities, with many women’s lives being saved, thanks to donors’ support.
Driving down maternal mortality in Mozambique
In Mozambique, a protracted civil war had a devastating impact on public health services and infrastructure. In 2000, Mozambique had one of the world’s highest rates of maternal mortality, with roughly 1 in 160 women dying from pregnancy or childbirth complications.
The country has since made significant strides by making maternal health one of its top priorities. In 2023, Mozambique’s maternal mortality ratio was 223 deaths per 100 000 live births; a 53% drop in maternal mortality since 2000.
Several critical interventions have contributed to this. Between 2017 and 2021, 106 new health facilities opened across the country, increasing access to health services, and the number of human resources for health and health technicians increased by around 15%.
WHO supported the country to establish a maternal death surveillance and response system, provided technical and financial support to the Ministry of Health to update the training package on Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care, and trained 40 national trainers across all 11 of Mozambique’s provinces. In 2021, WHO collaborated with health authorities to shape a comprehensive community health strategy.
Cambodia’s sustained progress in improving maternal, newborn and child health
A nurse is assisting a mother breastfeeding in a referral provincial hospital in Cambodia. WHO/Yoshi Shimizu
In early 2000’s, Cambodia faced alarming maternal, newborn and child health indicators. The maternal mortality ratio stood at 437 per 100 000 live births, while newborn and child mortality rate accounted for 37 and 124 per 1000 live births respectively.
Today, skilled birth attendance is near universal, with 98.7% of births attended by trained health professionals and 97.5% of women giving birth in a health facility. Between 2014 and 2021-2022, neonatal and under-five mortality rates declined by 54%, from 18 to 8 and from 35 to 16 per 1000 live births respectively. Cambodia achieved its SDG targets for reducing neonatal and under-five mortality eight years ahead of schedule.
The strong leadership of the Ministry of Health provided clear strategies for advancing maternal and newborn health. Two coordination platforms were established and convened regularly to align efforts within the Ministry and with health partners. With technical dsupport from WHO and funding from the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare, the Early Essential Newborn Care Coordination Committee plays a crucial role in harmonizing national and sub-national efforts, monitoring progress through regular reviews, mobilizing resources to scale up practices, and ensure consistency in care delivery.
Working with traditional birth attendants in Latin America
Mercedes Panamantamba, traditional birth attendant from Otavalo, Ecuador, receives training provided by PAHO on the use of biomedical tools to complement ancestral practices. Photo credit: PAHO/WHO
In rural and remote communities of Latin America, ancestral practices such as traditional midwifery have been passed down from generation to generation. In these areas, where geographical barriers and cultural differences can hinder access to healthcare centres, the practical and spiritual support of traditional birth attendants can make the difference between life and death.
The WHO Region for the Americas (Pan American Health Organization – PAHO), with support from the Government of Canada, has been working with over a thousand traditional birth attendants in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras, and Peru since 2021 to provide them with knowledge of warning signs to help prevent maternal and neonatal deaths.
PAHO conducted training sessions and knowledge dialogues on topics such as family planning, prenatal care, identification of warning signs, and childbirth care. Meetings have yielded results that can benefit the entire region, such as the development of the tool for promoting culturally safe childbirth.
These activities are part of ‘Improved health of women and adolescent girls in situations of vulnerability’, a joint project between PAHO and Global Affairs Canada.
Dorcas Simon, an informal trader in Kigoma region, Tanzania, who said it took the timely transportation of her newborn child and her to the hospital to save their lives. Photo credit: WHO/Clemence Eliah
In Kigoma region, Tanzania, maternal mortality was on the rise due to difficult access to health facilities and other factors. The region had limited capacity in terms of a referral system and diagnostic capacity.
“Looking at the year 2020, we had 119 maternal deaths. In 2021, they dropped to 75 but in 2022 there were 102 deaths.” Dr Jesca Leba, Regional Medical Officer, Ministry of Health, Kigoma Region, Tanzania.
The Government of Tanzania with support from WHO and partners set out to address this problem. With funding from the Norwegian Embassy, WHO procured ambulances for easy transportation of pregnant women. The ambulances have so far served over 2000 women from various districts across the region. Additionally, 15 ultrasound machines were provided for health facilities and 300 health workers were trained how to use them.
The Chief Medical Officer in Buhigwe District Health Centre appreciates the donor support with ultrasound equipment that expanded the centre’s capacity to provide services. Photo credit: WHO/Clemence Eliah
Today, the Kigoma region has since witnessed a sharp decline in maternal mortality from 119 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births in 2020 to just 26 in 2024.
Birth plan helps reduce maternal deaths in Cote d’Ivoire
Ms Konaté followed the entire process of the birth plan. Her baby was born in good conditions at the urban health center in the Belleville district, in Bouaké. She is congratulated by the midwife who gives her the baby. Photo credit: WHO Côte d’Ivoire
In Cote d’Ivoire, in 2017, the maternal mortality rate was 614 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births, (Demographic Health Survey 2012) far from the target of 140 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births expected by 2030. In 2021, WHO, with support from the Swedish Government and the French MUSKOKA fund, targeted the Gbeke region, which has one of the highest mortality rates in the country, through the “Gbeke Là-Haut Là” initiative.
The initiative included implementation of a childbirth preparation or delivery plan, starting with first prenatal consultations, an emergency trolley in the delivery room and capacity-building for midwives in the management of risk factors during pregnancy and childbirth.
By 2022, 46% of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics benefited from a childbirth preparation plan, compared to none previously. 181 midwives from 18 health facilities were trained in key life-saving clinical skills.
Between 2019 and 2022, the proportion of maternal deaths at Bouake University Hospital from the 3 urban health districts of Gbeke fell from 93% to 36%, a reduction of 57%. The proportion of maternal deaths due to post-partum haemorrhage fell by 27%, from 56% to 29%.
Close patient monitoring by nurses in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Gatot Soebroto Army Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia. As one of the SMART recommendations for mortality review. Photo credit: WHO/IndoXplore
WHO and European Union supported the Ministry of Health and partners to conduct crucial research on the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and newborn health and to better understand disruptions to essential health services, with the aim of building a stronger, more resilient health system.
Researchers analyzed the medical records of 4 945 pregnant women and their newborns and interviewed programme managers and health workers from eight selected hospitals in four provinces of Java Island.
WHO and the Ministry of Health will use the findings to inform the development of national guidelines aimed at strengthening the health system’s capacity to better respond to acute public health events and minimize disruptions to essential services, including for maternal and newborn health.
Maternal care services strengthened in Port au Prince, Haiti
The maternity ward at the Eliazar Germain Hospital. Photo credit: PAHO/WHO
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and PAHO/WHO are jointly supporting 3 hospitals in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area to provide maternal health services. This is to support the emergency response of the Ministry of Health and Population and improve access to health care, made increasingly difficult by the current security situation.
Support includes the supply of essential medical equipment and products, and the installation of a reliable power supply system, ensuring constant availability of electricity. Support beyond maternity services responds to urgent needs in sexual and reproductive health. Kits for the management of abortion complications and kits for the management of sexual violence have been distributed for this purpose.
Saving lives in flood- and drought-affected areas in Somalia
WHO Representative to Somalia Dr Reinhilde Van de Weerdt (left) met with H.E. Mr OKANIWA Ken, Ambassador of Japan to Somalia, to express appreciation for Japan’s support. Photo credit: WHO Somalia/M. Saydahmat
A 12-month project led by the WHO Country Office in Somalia over the course of 2023 reached over 3 million people affected by drought or flood. The Government of Japan supported the project with a grant of over US$ 700 000. Working with the Ministry of Health and Human Services, WHO aims to mitigate the health impacts of recurrent climate shocks, food insecurity and disease outbreaks, especially cholera, while strengthening health system resilience.
Thanks to Japan’s funding, WHO was able to deploy 369 community health workers and 121 mobile outreach teams in drought-affected areas. These provided essential health and immunization services to local population with a special focus on children and pregnant and lactating women. The project aims to provide help to about 900 000 flood- and drought-affected people in Somalia.
Meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis
Meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis. Photo credit:WHO AFRO
In 2023, more than 72 500 people were displaced in Mali because of clashes between rival armed groups, inter-community conflicts and military operations by the Malian armed forces against non-state armed groups.
To help Mali maintain delivery of quality health services in areas impacted by insecurity, WHO, supported by UN CERF is providing medicines and other consumables to the Health Ministry, and helping to upskill health workers on the ground. WHO is also supporting mobile clinics to reach isolated populations in the centre of Menaka and the two districts worst impacted by the insecurity, Tidermane and Anderamboukane.
Thanks to the mobile clinics, Aissata, a displaced person in Ménaka city centre, was able to receive the care she needed. She was monitored throughout her pregnancy, which saved her life and that of her baby. “If it wasn’t for the free consultation that day, I don’t know what I would have done,” the young mother says.
WHO urges expansion of lifesaving midwifery care for women and babies
Shakila, midwife, measuring height of the fundus on a pregnant woman at the mobile clinic organized by WHO at the Garm Abak of Waras district in Bamiyan, Afghanistan. Photo credit: WHO/Rada Akbar
Strengthening midwives’ role in maternity and newborn care services would save millions of lives each year while significantly enhancing women’s overall experience of care, according to a new publication released by WHO and partners.
The publication, transitioning to midwifery models of care: A global position paper, outlines the benefits and key components of midwifery care models, where midwives serve, within broader teams, as the main healthcare provider for women and babies during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.
Recent modelling shows that universal access to midwifery care could avert more than 60% of all maternal and newborn deaths and stillbirths – amounting to 4.3 million lives saved annually by 2035.
The position paper on midwifery models of care was prepared by WHO together with a coalition of leading health professional associations, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations and women’s group, including the Burnet Institute, Collectif interassociatif autour de la naissance, the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), the International Pediatric Association, Jhpiego, the UNFPA, and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with financial assistance from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Listen to WHO Director-General’s message on Linkedin thanking everyone who contributed for the development of the position paper.
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WHO’s work is made possible through all contributions of our Member States and partners. WHO thanks all donor countries, governments, organizations and individuals who are contributing to the Organization’s work, with special appreciation for those who provide fully flexible contributions to maintain a strong, independent WHO.
This feature reveals support of partners and donors from Burnet Institute (Collectif intersasociatif autour de la naissance), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Canada, CERF, the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, the European Union, International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), the International Pediatric Association, Japan, Jhpiego, French MUSKOKA, Norway, Sweden, the UNFPA, and UNICEF.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Speech
UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Human Rights Situation in Mali
UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Update of the Independent Expert on the Human Rights Situation in Mali. Delivered by the UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Thank You Mr Vice President.
We thank the Independent Expert for his report. His mandate is ever more vital following the withdrawal of the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). We also welcome the cooperation of the Malian authorities in facilitating the Expert’s first visit and encourage their continued collaboration.
As we have heard, the human rights situation remains grave. Increased reports of gender-based violence, and violence against children are particularly concerning. Civic space continues to shrink, key opposition figures remain detained, and civil society organisations disbanded.
We therefore encourage authorities to create the necessary conditions for free, fair and inclusive elections, as soon as possible.
Mr President, the UK urges the Malian authorities to further strengthen independent accountability mechanisms, including for alleged incidents committed by military personnel and Russian proxies. These actors continue to create deep-rooted insecurity for the Malian people.
Mr Gonzalez, as reports of human rights violations and abuses persist, international accountability processes remain vital to hold perpetrators to account. What more could the International Criminal Court do to enhance accountability under the existing referral?
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, March 28, 2025/APO Group/ —
The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) approved the establishment of a fund to help put an end to hunger and malnutrition amongst school age-children in Africa.
The End School-Age Hunger Fund (ESAH) was approved on 20 March with the aim of bolstering school meal programmes in targeted African countries by expanding existing initiatives and creating new ones so that more children in Africa have access to nutritious food while attending school while simultaneously boosing rural economies through agricultural productivity.
The implementation of the Fund, which will be run in conjunction with the African Development Fund (https://apo-opa.co/4hO6ZXT), the concessional window of the African Development Bank Group, includes the participation of the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, which has already demonstrated its commitment by signing a $50 million letter of commitment to establish the Fund.
In September 2024, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation and the Bank signed a letter of intent (https://apo-opa.co/4hNsjMT) in which the CIFF undertook to provide up to $50 million for the creation of the End School-Age Hunger Fund , witnessed by African Leaders for Nutrition Champion and African Union Nutrition Champion, His Majesty King Letsie III of Lesotho. In addition, the Foundation indicated that it was fully prepared to contribute a further $50 million to the Fund, once the Bank had made its initial contribution. The Foundation is committed to supporting broader resource leveraging efforts to attract more donors to the Fund. At the same time, the African Development Bank is seeking to engage other philanthropic organisations, such as the Aliko Dangote Foundation, to strengthen the Fund’s donor base.
The End School-Age Hunger Fund will support activities that contribute directly to school food initiatives within the continent, ensuring the provision of nutritious meals to children while promoting the development of small and medium-sized enterprises that provide services related to these programmes. Where appropriate, it is expected to provide essential technical assistance to governments, encouraging them to prioritise nutritious school feeding programmes as a vital mechanism for enhancing socio-economic development, ensuring student retention in schools, and improving learning outcomes and social protection.
“The End School-Age Hunger Fundwill work to secure a five-year commitment from the targeted countries, which is the standard implementation period for the Bank’s investment projects,” said Dr. Beth Dunford, the African Development Bank Group’s Vice President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development. “The implementation period is long enough to establish a solid proof of concept to ensure the continuation of the initiative beyond the initial funding phase.”
The Children’s Investment Fund Foundation is the world’s largest philanthropic organisation dedicated specifically to improving the lives of children. Since 2004, the Foundation has received voluntary contributions and donations totalling over $2.4 billion. Over the past ten years, its endowment has grown to a value of $6 billion (2020), which highlights the potential opportunity it offers in terms of harnessing resources.
SINGAPORE, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Valeura Energy Inc. (TSX:VLE, OTCQX:VLERF) (“Valeura” or the “Company”) reports that all of its personnel are accounted for and safe following the recent earthquake in neighbouring Myanmar.
At approximately 13:30 local time on Friday March 28, 2025, a strong earthquake struck central Myanmar, approximately 1,000 km from Bangkok Thailand. While certain buildings in Thailand were damaged, Valeura has confirmed that all of its facilities in the offshore Gulf of Thailand remain operating safely, with no immediate indications of damage.
For further information, please contact:
Valeura Energy Inc. (General Corporate Enquiries) +65 6373 6940 Sean Guest, President and CEO Yacine Ben-Meriem, CFO Contact@valeuraenergy.com
Valeura Energy Inc. (Investor and Media Enquiries) +1 403 975 6752 / +44 7392 940495 Robin James Martin, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations IR@valeuraenergy.com
About the Company
Valeura Energy Inc. is a Canadian public company engaged in the exploration, development and production of petroleum and natural gas in Thailand and in Türkiye. The Company is pursuing a growth-oriented strategy and intends to re-invest into its producing asset portfolio and to deploy resources toward further organic and inorganic growth in Southeast Asia. Valeura aspires toward value accretive growth for stakeholders while adhering to high standards of environmental, social and governance responsibility.
Additional information relating to Valeura is also available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in any jurisdiction, including where such offer would be unlawful. This news release is not for distribution or release, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States, Ireland, the Republic of South Africa or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which its publication or distribution would be unlawful.
Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
This information is provided by Reach, the non-regulatory press release distribution service of RNS, part of the London Stock Exchange. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.
With only a few health facilities still functioning in Darfur, Sudan, pregnant women face harrowing journeys to seek care. Insecurity, checkpoints, and unaffordable or unavailable transportation force them to undertake day-long treks on foot or by donkey, often resulting in delivery complications, miscarriage or death.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) runs activities in 10 out of Sudan’s 18 states, and has been witnessing the grave toll that the war has taken on women and their health in Darfur and across the country.
The MSF health promotion team talks to patients at the Murnei hospital waiting area in West Darfur. Sudan, January 2025.Belen Filgueira/MSF
In West and Central Darfur, many women who live in remote areas give birth at home, relying on traditional methods. The scarcity of healthcare facilities, the distance they have to travel, the insecurity on the road, and the price of transportation, often result in women seeking healthcare only after they face complications, putting both their lives and the lives of their babies at great risk.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 70 per cent of health facilities in conflict-affected areas like Darfur are barely operational or completely closed, leaving millions without access to critical care amid one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent history.
“One mother gave birth at home, and couldn’t remove the placenta, then she was bleeding, so they rushed her to the hospital,” says Wendemagegn Tefera Benty, MSF project medical referent at Zalingei hospital in Central Darfur. “The family had to carry her, and after one day of walking, when they reached [the hospital], she had already passed away because of the bleeding.”
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has a profound impact on the health of pregnant women and their babies, particularly in terms of preterm deliveries. It has left people unemployed and disrupted access to food and clean water. As a result, many pregnant women arrive at hospitals malnourished, which directly affects the health of their babies, often leading to preterm birth and malnourishment. After these babies are born, they are frequently admitted to observation units to ensure their survival and wellbeing.
“The biggest difficulty is how to manage to bring food to my children,” says a maternity patient at Murnei hospital, in West Darfur. “I was working a lot when I was pregnant and that is maybe why my baby was born weak. Access to healthcare was also difficult but MSF helped.”
The MSF-supported Zalingei hospital is the only referral hospital available for specialised healthcare services for an estimated 500,000 people. There is no other health facility managing deliveries in the area. In the operating theatre at Zalingei hospital, our teams perform over 40 emergency caesarean section operations per month.
Afaf Omar Yahya experienced severe abdominal pain in her home as her pregnancy was about to come to term. Due to the lack of transportation in Darfur, she had no choice but to travel for hours on a donkey to reach Zalingei hospital. Upon her arrival, the doctor informed her she had suffered a miscarriage, and she needed to undergo an emergency caesarean section.
Marim Ahmed Ali holds her newborn baby while nurse Fatima Zacaria Abdalshfe inserts a cannula in his ankle at Murnei hospital in West Darfur. Sudan, January 2025.Belen Filgueira/MSF
“Losing the baby was the greatest heartbreak for me,” says Afaf, while recovering at the maternity ward.
Women from across Darfur share similar experiences, but the situation shows no signs of improvement.
“Most of the complications we receive are caused by post-home delivery and anaemia during pregnancy,” says Virginie Mukamiza, midwife activity manager at Zalingei hospital.
Pregnant women seek medical care when they have post-partum bleeding or sepsis.
“Most health facilities in Darfur are now mere empty buildings,” says Osanatu Sento Bangura, MSF midwife activity manager at the MSF-supported Murnei hospital in West Darfur. “There’s no staff, no medications, nothing at all. Before the war, people had access at least to basic healthcare centres near their homes. Now they have to rely on big hospitals that are far away.”
Many of these situations could have been prevented with antenatal consultations and adequate referral systems from basic healthcare facilities, but most of them have been either out of service since the onset of the war, or rely on humanitarian aid, which is widely unavailable, to deliver services.
Twelve days after giving birth at home, Sameera visited the Romalia mobile clinic, in a remote area of West Darfur, to have both her and her baby checked. Upon arrival, she was running a high fever and had infected wounds in her arm. Following the home delivery, she had experienced terrible abdominal pain. Her brother gave her an injection to bring down her temperature, but injured her arm. She was in pain and couldn’t hold her baby properly. After conducting several tests, our teams at the clinic discovered an infection in her arm. They promptly disinfected and dressed the wound and prescribed treatment.
The war’s far-reaching effects threaten to trap women and girls in a never-ending cycle of malnutrition, declining health, and maternal death.
We reiterate our call to drastically scale up the provision of lifesaving humanitarian aid and access to healthcare in Darfur. Warring parties must grant unhindered access for aid delivery and ease the obstacles that are preventing people from reaching healthcare. The full engagement of donors must be ensured to increase a sustained funding to boost the humanitarian response.
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CEO of Postbank, Ms. Nikki Mbengashe briefs media on the announcement regarding the payment of grants to beneficiaries that have not yet switched from SASSA gold cards to black cards.
ROME – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned today that 58 million people risk losing life-saving assistance in the agency’s 28 most critical crisis response operations unless new funding is received urgently.
Despite the generosity of many governments and individual donors, WFP is experiencing a steep decline in funding across its major donors. The severity of these cuts, combined with record levels of people in need, have led to an unprecedented crisis for tens of millions across the globe reliant on food aid.
Right now, the organization is facing an alarming 40 percent drop in funding for 2025, as compared to last year. This is having severe repercussions for its food aid efforts globally, particularly emergency feeding programs that support the most vulnerable.
“WFP is prioritizing countries with the greatest needs and stretching food rations at the frontlines. While we are doing everything possible to reduce operational costs, make no mistake, we are facing a funding cliff with life-threatening consequences,” said Rania Dagash-Kamara, WFP Assistant Executive Director for Partnerships and Innovation. “Emergency feeding programmes not only save lives and alleviate human suffering, they bring greatly needed stability to fragile communities, which can spiral downwards when faced with extreme hunger.”
WFP on the Frontlines
Today, global hunger is skyrocketing as 343 million people face severe food insecurity, driven by an unrelenting wave of global crises including conflict, economic instability, and climate-related emergencies. In 2025, WFP’s operations are focused on supporting just over one-third of those in need – roughly 123 million of the world’s hungriest people – nearly half of whom (58 million) are at imminent risk of losing access to food assistance.
Last year, WFP teams helped feed more than 120 million people in 80 countries, delivering urgent food aid to hunger hot spots and frontline crises around the world.
Imminent Pipeline Breaks
As WFP works to quickly adapt its operations to current low funding levels, it is alerting donors that its 28 most critical crisis response operations are facing severe funding constraints and dangerously low food supplies through August.
The 28 programs span: Lebanon, Sudan, Syria, South Sudan, Chad, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Uganda, Niger, Burkina Faso, DRC, Yemen, Mali, Bangladesh, Venezuela, Haiti, Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia, Kenya, Ukraine, Malawi, Burundi, Ethiopia, Palestine, Central African Republic, Jordan, and Egypt.
Below are a few examples of these programmes.
Sudan: WFP requires nearly US$570 million to support over 7 million people per month in Sudan where a looming pipeline break will hit as early as April. Famine was first confirmed in Zamzam camp near the embattled city of El Fasher and has since spread to 10 areas across North Darfur and the Western Nuba mountains. In Sudan 24.6 million people do not have enough to eat. Delays in funding to deliver emergency food assistance, emergency nutrition and emergency logistics will cut a vital lifeline for millions with immediate and devastating consequences for vulnerable populations, who in many cases are just one step away from starvation.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): WFP requires US$399 million to feed 6.4 million as escalating violence by militia groups in the east has already displaced more than a million people. Food and nutrition assistance across the DRC is vital to stabilize the region and reach the most vulnerable who have already been displaced by conflict multiple times.
Palestine: WFP emergency response requires approximately US$265 million over the next six months to provide support to nearly 1.4 million people in Gaza and the West Bank. An additional US$34 million is urgently needed for 3-month shock-responsive cash transfer assistance to support 40,000 families in the West Bank. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical with over 2 million people fully dependent on food assistance – most of them displaced, without shelter and income.
Syria: WFP requires US$140 million to provide food and nutrition assistance to 1.2 million people every month. Without new funding, WFP faces a pipeline break in August which would cut off food assistance to one million of the most severely food-insecure individuals. Any disruption in life-saving assistance threatens to erode stability and social cohesion during a critical moment when millions of Syrians try to return home.
Lebanon: WFP requires US$162 million to feed 1.4 million people as severe funding shortfalls are already disrupting food assistance to vulnerable Lebanese and Syrian refugees – fostering instability and heightened social tensions. With an ongoing economic crisis and government transition in Lebanon, food insecurity continues to rise with one in three already facing acute hunger.
South Sudan: WFP requires US$281 million to provide food and nutrition assistance to 2.3 million people escaping war, climate extremes, and an economic disaster – plunging them into a severe hunger crisis. South Sudan has also seen more than one million people arrive, fleeing from the war in Sudan. Nearly two-thirds of the people in South Sudan are acutely food insecure. New funding for WFP’s crisis response activities in South Sudan is needed now to preposition life-saving food ahead of the rainy season.
Myanmar: WFP requires US$60 millionto provide life-saving food assistance to 1.2 millionpeople. Without immediate new funding a pipeline break in April will cut off one million from all support. Increased conflict, displacement and access restrictions are already sharply driving up food aid needs as the lean season is expected to begin in July when food shortages hit hardest.
Haiti: WFP requires US$10 million to feed 1.3 million as brutal violence by armed groups has caused record levels of hunger and displacement. Half the population is facing extreme hunger and a quarter of the children under the age of five are stunted. More than a million people have been forced from their homes, including a record 60,000 in just one month this year. WFP has been providing hot meals and cash assistance to displaced people, but without new funding, that lifesaving assistance could be suspended in the coming weeks.
Saheland Lake Chad Basin: WFP requires US$570 million to reach 5 million people with life-saving food and nutrition assistance. Without new funding a pipeline break is expected in April. Millions of the most vulnerable people in Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, the Central African Republic, Cameroon, and Nigeria in need of emergency support also face dire consequences as the June to August lean season approaches. At current funding levels, five million people risk losing critical support from WFP in the months ahead.
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The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.
Organizers have announced the Tiantan Award jury panel and additional details for the 15th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF), set for April 18-26 in Beijing.
Organizers reveal the jury panel for the Tiantan Award main competition of the 15th Beijing International Film Festival during a press conference in Beijing, March 27, 2025. [Photo courtesy of the BJIFF Organizing Committee]
Prominent Chinese filmmaker Jiang Wen will chair the seven-member jury, organizers revealed at a press conference in Beijing on March 27.
Jiang, known for his award-winning works “In the Heat of the Sun” (1994) and “Let the Bullets Fly” (2010), also gained international recognition for his role as Baze Malbus in “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” (2016).
His experience includes serving as a competition juror at the Cannes International Film Festival in 2003 and the Venice International Film Festival in 2013. In 2017, Jiang became a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The following year, he presided as jury president at the Shanghai International Film Festival.
The BJIFF’s Tiantan Award main competition jury will include Chinese American director and actor Joan Chen, British director David Yates, Chinese mainland actor Ni Ni, Finnish director Teemu Nikki, Swiss director and actor Vincent Perez, and Chinese art director Tim Yip from China’s Hong Kong. The panel will select winners across 10 categories, including best feature film, best director and best screenplay. All awards will be presented at the festival’s closing ceremony and gala.
The competition received a record 1,794 feature film submissions from 103 countries and regions, marking a 19% increase over last year’s 1,509 entries. International submissions accounted for 1,608 films, comprising nearly 90% of all entries and reflecting exceptional diversity in genre and thematic scope.
Fifteen films have been shortlisted for the final competition, including three Chinese entries: Hao Ming and Li Peiran’s “Better Me, Better You,” Li Yongyi’s “Deep in the Mountains,” and Zhang Qi’s “Trapped.”
International selections for the competition include Emine Yildirim’s “Apollon by Day Athena by Night” (Turkey), Sora Hokimoto’s “BAUS: The Ship’s Voyage Continues” (Japan), Maria Brendle’s “Frieda’s Case” (Switzerland), Tim Ellrich’s “In My Parents’ House” (Germany), Lilja Ingolfsdottir’s “Loveable” (Norway), Tobias Schmutzler, Kevin Schmutzler, Apuu Mourine, and Vallentine Chelluget’s “Nawi: Dear Future Me” (Kenya/Germany), Sophie Deraspe’s “Shepherds” (Canada/France), Andrea Segre’s “The Great Ambition” (Italy/Belgium/Bulgaria), Ivan Fund’s “The Message” (Argentina/Spain/Uruguay), Charlie McDowell’s “The Summer Book” (Finland/United Kingdom/United States), Noëlle Bastin and Baptiste Bogaert’s “Vitrival – The Most Beautiful Village in the World” (Belgium), and Hadi Mohaghegh’s “Vortex” (Iran/Czech Republic).
The festival is supported by the China Film Administration and hosted by the Beijing municipal government and China Media Group. It will include star-studded opening and closing ceremonies featuring red-carpet shows.
The festival’s core forums will delve into key topics, including intellectual property development, industry innovation, audience-driven storytelling and emerging film technologies. Additionally, the event will offer masterclasses conducted by acclaimed directors Jiang Wen and Jia Zhangke, along with French cinema icon Isabelle Huppert.
The official poster for the 15th Beijing International Film Festival, designed by the renowned art director Huo Tingxiao. [Photo courtesy of the BJIFF Organizing Committee]
The festival also includes the Beijing Film Panorama, a highly anticipated program showcasing nostalgic classics, new blockbusters and previously unreleased films in China. This year, it will celebrate the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema and the 130th anniversary of world cinema.
It will feature 18 thematic sections with nearly 300 exceptional international films across about 900 screenings at 33 premium venues in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. These venues span commercial theaters, arthouse cinemas and cultural spaces. Initial confirmed films include a Robert Altman centenary retrospective, as well as works by Jiri Menzel, Andrei Tarkovsky and the late David Lynch.
The BJIFF will feature a diverse lineup with hundreds of events, including a film carnival, pitch sessions for emerging filmmakers and cross-industry collaborations that merge cinema with music, fashion and gastronomy.
Additional highlights include cutting-edge tech showcases, programs focused on short films, sports films, works by female directors, and young filmmakers, plus creative markets, an AI-generated film competition unit, and a university student film festival.
This year, Switzerland serves as the Country of Honor to commemorate 75 years of China-Switzerland diplomatic relations, with a special Swiss Film Week. The festival will also introduce its inaugural China Film Global Distribution and Promotion Awards, recognizing 10 domestic and international distributors for their outstanding work in promoting Chinese cinema globally and enhancing both its commercial reach and cultural impact.
Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –
This year, the Polytechnic Preparatory Department celebrates its anniversary. 60 years ago, the first foreign students arrived on the banks of the Neva and began their studies at the Leningrad Polytechnic Institute named after M. I. Kalinin. In honor of this event, a trip to Veliky Novgorod, a city with an ancient history, was organized for current students.
Children from Algeria, Pakistan, China, Turkey, Chad and other countries saw how Russian culture was born. They walked around the Novgorod Kremlin (Detinets) — the oldest fortress in Russia, where they learned about the defense of cities in ancient times. At the monument “Millennium of Russia” the students examined the figures of great rulers: Yaroslav the Wise, Alexander Nevsky, Ivan III and learned their history.
Everyone was especially impressed by the Saint Sophia Cathedral. It is huge and very beautiful! Such buildings show how much history means to your country, – shared Ok Berk from Turkey.
The students also visited the Vitoslavlitsy Museum, where they saw old wooden houses, churches and a windmill.
I liked how the museum preserved the peasants’ way of life. It seemed as if I had gone back in time! – said Ahmad Md Nawab from India.
After the excursion, the group went to an old village, where they tried traditional dishes and heard folk legends.
Novgorod is a city that everyone should see! There is so much history, nature and kind people here, the guys shared their impressions.
The trip was not only a vacation, but also a lesson in Russian culture. The students returned with bright photos, new knowledge and a desire to learn even more about Russia.
The preparatory faculty continues its festive events – meetings with graduates, conferences and a gala concert are ahead.
The preparatory faculty of SPbPU has more than half a century of successful training of foreign citizens. Our students were very lucky to come to the preparatory faculty of the Polytechnic in this anniversary year. I am sure many guys will take part in the ceremonial events and will continue their education at the Polytechnic, – noted assistant to the vice-rector Pavel Nedelko.
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