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Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79): Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program Receives Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Investment Award

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

    NEW YORK, United States of America, September 29, 2024/APO Group/ —

    The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP) (http://apo-opa.co/3ZHg6nA) has been honored as the “Best Investable NDC Adaptation Investment Initiative of the Year” at the 2024 African NDC Investment Awards.

    The award, presented during the African NDC Institutional Investment Summit in New York, held on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, recognizes the AAAP’s groundbreaking efforts to accelerate climate adaptation across the continent.

    Launched by the African Development Bank and the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) in 2021, the AAAP set an ambitious goal to mobilise $25 billion by 2025 to drive transformative climate adaptation actions across Africa. To date, the Bank has committed $12.5 billion and by the end of 2023 had successfully mobilised $9.22 billion.

    Sponsored by the African Green Infrastructure Investment Bank and presented by Africa Investor Magazine, the award honors projects that excel in advancing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) by mobilizing private climate capital and enhancing investment readiness. Africa’s NDC implementation requires over $3 trillion by 2030 to meet the continent’s adaptation and mitigation goals.

    Accepting the award on behalf of the African Development Bank, Professor Anthony Nyong, Director for Climate Change and Green Growth, said: 

    “This recognition is a testament to the incredible impact the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program is having across the continent. We are not only on track to meet our financial commitments, but we are also transforming lives through resilient infrastructure, food security, and youth entrepreneurship. Together with our partners, we are driving real change and positioning Africa at the forefront of global climate adaptation efforts.”

    AAAP’s impact is already being felt throughout the continent, with climate adaptation initiatives integrated into 38 African Development Bank operations and 30 technical assistance activities over 41 countries. These projects cover critical sectors such as agriculture, water and sanitation, transport, energy access, and urban development to the benefit of millions of people. The AAAP exemplifies how innovative financing and partnerships can address the most pressing climate challenges.

    The program’s focus on youth entrepreneurship and job creation stands out, with $5.5 million invested to support 41 young climate innovators in 20 African countries, positioning Africa’s youth as leaders in adaptation.

    In the critical area of food security, the AAAP has implemented 17 investment and technical assistance projects across the Sahel, Horn of Africa, and Zambezi regions, improving food resilience for 9.4 million people. Meanwhile, the AAAP’s work on resilient infrastructure includes 28 projects in 23 countries, ensuring that communities are better equipped to withstand climate shocks.

    AAAP’s Technical Assistance Program has enabled 14 African entities to gain accreditation with the Green Climate Fund (GCF), facilitating direct access to vital climate finance. These efforts have led to the development of GCF proposals that mobilized over $250 million, benefiting 4.6 million people across Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan.

    Recognized at the 35th Ordinary Session of the African Union for its achievements, the AAAP is setting the standard for climate adaptation in Africa and beyond. The program’s success is sparking global interest, with its model being adapted in Asia. Discussions are underway to extend it to small island developing states.

    Richard Uku, Director of External Affairs at the Global Center on Adaptation, represented GCA’s CEO Professor Patrick V. Verkooijen. He said: “This award highlights the power of partnership. The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program demonstrates that when we work together, we can achieve scale and speed in climate adaptation efforts.”

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Springboks cruise to victory 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Sunday, September 29, 2024

    The Springboks brought joy to the nation after beating Argentina 48-7 and winning the Castle Lager Rugby Championship for the first time in five years.

    The world cup winning side beat the Pumas at the Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga on Saturday evening.
    The match saw the Boks lead 27-7 at half time.

    “The win was never in doubt after the Springboks – celebrating a new Test record for Eben Etzebeth (128 caps) – had a sublime start that had the sold-out crowd of 43 578 in raptures and hardly gave them time to either sit down or catch a breath in a spellbinding first 15 minutes,” said the SA Rugby in match report.

    Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie described Etzebeth as a warrior.

    “On behalf of South Africa, I would like to acknowledge a warrior of SA, a man that donned the green and gold shirt 128 times doing duty for his country. You have done so much for us and the sport of rugby. You are truly a role model with the most magnificent teammates and coaches,” the Minister said in a post on X.

    The Springboks scored a total seven tries in their victory on Saturday.

    “A crowd of 43 578 celebrated as the Springboks scored seven tries to claim the southern hemisphere crown for the first time since 2019 – scoring more tries in a match in the competition since scoring nine in beating the same opponents at the FNB Stadium 73-13 in 2013,” said SA Rugby.

    Proteas

    Meanwhile, the Proteas Men are set to face Ireland in their T20i clash today.

    “The Proteas are ready to bring the heat in the final T20i against Ireland! With the series on the line, they’re focused on sealing the deal,” Cricket South Africa said in a post on X ahead of Sunday’s match. The match will get underway at 5:30 pm.

    Cricket SA called on the nation to “get behind the Proteas as they aim to dominate and finish strong.” –SAnews.gov.za

    Share this post:

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Lasting peace in Ethiopia? More needs to be done to stop Tigray conflict from flaring up again

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Madhav Joshi, Research Professor & Associate Director, Peace Accords Matrix (PAM), Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies and Keough School of Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame

    It has been nearly two years since the African Union brokered a peace deal that put an end to the war between the Ethiopian state and the Tigray regional government. The signing of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement in November 2022 brought an end to a deadly two-year conflict.

    The agreement has achieved a number of outcomes. These include:

    • an end to the fighting between Tigrayan and Ethiopian armed forces

    • the creation of a transitional government in Tigray, run by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front

    • the demobilisation of 50,000 Tigrayan troops

    • the Tigray People’s Liberation Front regaining its legal status as a political party registered under special conditions

    • the approval in Addis Ababa of a transitional justice policy

    • the establishment of an AU-led monitoring and verification mission.

    But a great deal still remains to be done if the peace is going to last. We have studied 42 comprehensive and 236 partial peace agreements in the last three decades. Based on this experience, we argue that urgent issues remain to be addressed in the Ethiopian agreement. If left unattended, they raise the risk of a return to war.

    Empirical research suggests that a higher overall implementation rate of civil war peace agreements leads to sustainable peace. It is the only proven pathway for resolving remaining conflicts in a country. Doing what was agreed is necessary for post-war recovery.

    In Ethiopia, the disarmament and demobilisation of Tigrayan combatants needs urgent attention. So do the protection of civilians and returnees in disputed territories in western and northern Tigray, and the restoration of basic infrastructure in the region. The state also needs to ensure the smooth delivery of humanitarian aid, the withdrawal of foreign troops from Tigray and the representation of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front in the federal government.

    The gaps

    A substantial reason for the lack of progress in building sustainable peace is that the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement has holes in it.

    Firstly, only the immediate cessation of hostilities, and the demobilisation and disarmament of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front combatants, were set out clearly. Other principles – such as civilian protections, delivery of humanitarian aid and ensuring accountability for the conflict – were left to “good faith implementation”.

    The peace agreement and its implementation process in Tigray lack safeguard mechanisms. These are procedures involving the power-sharing government, dispute resolution and robust mechanisms to verify the implementation of the agreement. However, only the verification mechanism is in place among these three pillars, and it’s very weak. Safeguard mechanisms create ownership, inclusion and accountability. They amplify the urgency of implementing peace deals.

    Secondly, the underlying causes of conflict and grievances haven’t been dealt with as agreed. These include the withdrawal of foreign troops from Tigray, the reconstruction of conflict-affected communities and the Tigrayan government’s representation in the federal government. Addressing these grievances might create the mutual trust that is necessary to revive the stalled process of building peace.



    Read more:
    What is federalism? Why Ethiopia uses this system of government and why it’s not perfect

    Thirdly, while the overt conflict with Tigrayan forces has subsided, the political dialogue between the regional and national governments hasn’t happened. This dialogue is key to addressing ambiguities in the peace deal. The agreement’s success depends on actions at the federal level – such as the reparation of internally displaced persons. Yet, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front isn’t represented at this level.

    Fourth, conflict-displaced Tigrayans are slowly returning to their communities. But insecurity remains acute because it’s not clear if all Tigrayan combatants are demobilised and all troops from Eritrea withdrawn. The monitoring mechanism in place is weak and cannot independently verify what’s been achieved.

    Fifth, the Ethiopian government’s transitional justice policy is unclear. It doesn’t provide guidance on who to prosecute as there are still ongoing conflicts in Ethiopia. The policy also avoids international scrutiny. It lacks critical aspects to prevent the recurrence of atrocities by adhering to international standards.

    Political factors

    The lack of progress in building lasting peace can also be put down to a lack of political will on the part of both parties.

    The federal government lacks resources for reconstruction. For example, there has been little rebuilding of basic infrastructure. The cost of recovery from the war in Tigray is estimated to be over US$44 billion.

    For its part, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front is in the throes of a growing rift between its chairman, Debretsion Gebremichael, and the deputy chairman and head of the interim government in Tigray, Getachew Reda. This has diverted attention to managing intra-party rivalries rather than pressuring the federal government to take necessary actions.

    Debretsion is prioritising the Tigray People’s Liberation Front’s return to its past glory with control over the political structure in Tigray. Getachew is pushing for a reconciliatory approach with the government and showing a willingness to compromise the party’s position for peace and security.

    What remains to be done

    Ethiopia is facing a watershed moment. The peace agreement can be carried out faster if the Tigray People’s Liberation Front maintains its cohesiveness. When broken into factions, it cannot hold the Abiy Ahmed regime accountable.

    Research shows that rebel movements such as the Tigray People’s Liberation Front often form factions after signing peace deals because of disagreements on the compromises made to reach a deal. A slow implementation process can further divide a rebel movement as it cannot cater to its supporters, or justify the war and unaddressed humanitarian and human rights abuses.

    Factions weaken the party, create instabilities and hurt the peace building process.

    The Tigray People’s Liberation Front’s unity is crucial for the success of the deal and its aspiration to return to political power in Tigray.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Lasting peace in Ethiopia? More needs to be done to stop Tigray conflict from flaring up again – https://theconversation.com/lasting-peace-in-ethiopia-more-needs-to-be-done-to-stop-tigray-conflict-from-flaring-up-again-239847

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: What makes a person seem wise? Global study finds that cultures do differ – but not as much as you’d think

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Maksim Rudnev, Research Associate, Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo

    We all admire wise people, don’t we? Whether it’s a thoughtful teacher, a compassionate doctor, or an elder in the community, we recognise wisdom when we see it. But have you ever thought about how people in different cultures perceive wisdom? Does someone in Morocco view a wise person in the same way as someone in Ecuador? Our recent study explored how people across cultures think of wisdom.

    This large-scale project required a joint effort of 34 researchers across fields of philosophy, psychology, anthropology, social science and psychometrics – and from all over the world, connected in a research consortium called The Geography of Philosophy.

    What we found was somewhat surprising. Wisdom may appear to be shaped by cultural differences, but the core aspects of what makes someone wise are largely the same across cultures. From urban college students in Japan to villagers in South Africa, participants associated wisdom with two key characteristics: reflective orientation and socio-emotional awareness. We explain what that means below.

    Contrary to widespread stereotypes, people recognise wisdom in a similar way across east and west, south and north. Despite the divisions of the world, we see wisdom in the same individuals and associate it with similar traits. Are we indeed more alike than we are different, when it comes to how we perceive wisdom? And what characterises wise people?

    These are the characteristics of wise people

    There are two key characteristics. Reflective orientation is about people who think before acting, carefully consider different perspectives, and use logic and past experiences to guide their decisions. They’re the type of person who keeps their cool in difficult situations, taking time to weigh all the options before making a move.

    The second is socio-emotional awareness. Wise people are good at understanding and caring about the thoughts and feelings of others. They pay attention to emotions and consider different views on the situation. Such an individual might be skilled at mediating conflicts by understanding each party’s point of view, or be adept at providing emotional support during difficult times.

    Together, these two dimensions combine to form the global image of wisdom. The study suggests that the wisest people are those who balance both, showing strong abilities in reasoning while also being emotionally and socially aware.

    A highly reflective person who is suppressing their own emotions but doesn’t notice the social context of the problem wouldn’t be called wise. Likewise, someone who is entirely driven by emotion and the social environment but fails to make logical connections wouldn’t be called wise either. Real wisdom, according to our study, is about finding a balance between thoughtful reasoning, social understanding, and emotional awareness.

    Cultures do differ, but not as much as you might think

    To uncover these dimensions, we employed a method sometimes called experimental philosophy. Participants across 16 different cultures in 12 countries on five continents compared a set of targets to each other. For example, one of the questions asked participants to compare whether a doctor or a religious person was more likely to think logically when making a hard life decision with no right or wrong answers. Our participants also rated themselves. Then we asked how wise each of these persons were.

    When we started this project, we expected to find big differences between cultures. Previous research suggested that people in “the west” use and value analytical thinking, which tends to dismiss social and emotional parts of the situation. In contrast, individuals in “the east” emphasise holistic thinking, that is, all-encompassing views of complex situations.

    But that’s not what we found. While there were some small differences – people in South Africa, for example, placed more importance on nature and divinity when thinking about socio-emotional awareness – the overall picture was strikingly similar. Across the globe, people rated individuals who were both reflective and socially and emotionally aware as the wisest. For instance, they named a doctor and a 75-year-old person as the wisest, and at the same time the highest on both dimensions.

    What was particularly fascinating was that people tended to rate themselves differently from how they rated others. Most people saw themselves as less reflective but more socially and emotionally aware than the “wise” figures they were asked to rate. In other words, people were ready to admit a moderate level of their own intellectual capabilities, but they were quite confident in their ability to understand and care for others.

    Why this matters

    This research defies stereotypes of a cold analytical ideal of “the west” and a social-minded and emotionally driven image of “the east” and “the south”. The idea that wisdom is purely intellectual, or conversely, purely social or divine, is too simplistic. It also highlights that wisdom manifests in a balance of traits traditionally attributed to different cultures.

    In a time when global cooperation is more important than ever, recognising our shared appreciation for certain qualities can help bridge cultural divides.

    The study opens up new avenues for research. Could these dimensions of wisdom help us understand how to solve global problems? Are people more likely to trust leaders who show both reflective thinking and socio-emotional awareness? And how do these qualities affect the way we handle personal relationships, difficult decisions, or conflicts?

    One thing is clear: wisdom is something we all value, no matter where we come from. By understanding it better, we can not only become wiser ourselves but also learn to appreciate wisdom in others, wherever they may be.

    Veli Mitova receives funding from the John Templeton Foundation and the National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences.

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

    – ref. What makes a person seem wise? Global study finds that cultures do differ – but not as much as you’d think – https://theconversation.com/what-makes-a-person-seem-wise-global-study-finds-that-cultures-do-differ-but-not-as-much-as-youd-think-238808

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: South Africa’s municipalities aren’t fixing roads, supplying clean water or keeping the lights on: new study explains why

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ramos Emmanuel Mabugu, Professor, Sol Plaatje University

    South Africa has a massive infrastructure problem. Roads, electricity supply and water management are just three areas in which there is mounting evidence of collapse and decay. This is true for big cities like Johannesburg as well as small towns and rural areas.

    This is a problem because infrastructure like this has huge economic benefits. Having water and electricity enables firms to run smoothly. Local roads improve mobility and access to markets.

    A study by South Africa’s Financial and Fiscal Commission in 2018 showed that infrastructure spending had a statistically significant positive impact on local employment and economic growth.

    Responsibility for maintaining these essential services lies with South Africa’s 257 municipalities. Funding comes from two pots: central government allocation; and revenue raised locally through the delivery of services.

    The national government has increased its financial transfers to municipalities for infrastructure investment by more than 3.5 times in local currency over the past 14 years. In that period municipalities have received almost R600 billion (US$45,5 billion) from national government.

    Why do local governments have little to show for it?

    We have been researching South Africa’s public finances and intergovernmental fiscal relations issues for many years. In a recent paper we evaluated how municipalities have managed the delivery of infrastructure.

    We found that:

    • municipalities have failed to effectively use increased infrastructure allocations

    • municipalities have not chosen the right infrastructure projects

    • projects have not been implemented cost effectively

    • projects have not been completed on time and within budget

    • infrastructure was not being operated efficiently

    • existing infrastructure was not being maintained.

    The failures

    We identified the following failures.

    People resources: Most of South Africa’s 257 municipalities lack the required capacity for managing infrastructure. Only a few have fully resourced project management units. In addition, there are cumbersome and costly infrastructure planning processes and legislative requirements. For instance, municipalities must conduct a feasibility study and appoint a steering committee for each project. The resources required for this are overwhelming for many and the process simply shifts the limited resources away from the actual infrastructure work.

    These problems have persisted despite many years of reforms and increased technical and financial support.

    Poor allocation of funds: Most allocations by national government for infrastructure have been in the form of conditional grants. These stipulate conditions for what type of infrastructure the money can be spent on.

    However, this hasn’t stopped the grants being allocated to prolonged or abandoned projects. The result is that many municipalities have been using recurring budget allocations to rectify poor workmanship and abandoned projects.

    Political interference: Where infrastructure has been built it is not well maintained. This is partly because politicians tend to prefer new infrastructure which comes with opportunities for ribbon cutting ceremonies. But some of this infrastructure doesn’t match the needs of communities, and becomes a white elephant.

    Bureaucracy: Municipalities share responsibility with national and provincial governments for some local infrastructure investments. But joint planning and budgeting is lacking. So water and electricity reticulation networks are often installed without sufficient bulk supply from the relevant providers.

    Service delays then lead to community protest and infrastructure vandalism.

    The role of national government departments also creates problems. They are the custodians of conditional infrastructure grant funding. In this role they often interfere and dictate priorities for municipalities while attaching stringent conditions to funding.

    Lack of ownership: Frustrated by the ongoing inability to spend infrastructure funds, national government is increasingly carrying out projects on behalf of municipalities, often using indirect grants. The result is that municipalities have no sense of ownership of the infrastructure and are not keen to maintain it. Some of the landfill sites and sport facilities constructed by the national departments of environmental affairs and sports have been neglected.

    We also found that municipalities are battling to keep up with growing populations, rising input costs and the vandalisation of infrastructure.

    Our findings are confirmed by reports of the auditor-general which highlight weak municipal infrastructure delivery management.

    The 2021–2022 auditor-general’s report found that the average delay in completing infrastructure projects ranged from 17 to 26 months.

    It also found that all 257 municipalities had spent only R18 billion (US$1.2 billion) on infrastructure maintenance. This represents 4% of the total value (R450 billion or US$30.6 billion) of municipal assets. This low spend increases the risk of infrastructure breakdown and reduces service level standards.

    It also rapidly increases the pace and cost of infrastructure upgrading and replacement.

    The solutions

    The failure to deliver infrastructure has itself affected the financial stability of municipalities. This is because they can generate their own revenue from selling water and electricity to residents. A collapse of these services means this income is lost.

    But debates on municipal infrastructure in South Africa have largely focused on funding shortfalls. This ignores weaknesses or a lack of municipal capacity to manage infrastructure projects. Giving municipalities money for infrastructure does not guarantee quality and long-lasting infrastructure.

    Municipalities need to:

    • focus on the full life cycle management of infrastructure instead of just rolling out new projects

    • plan for relevant infrastructure that responds to local circumstances

    • maintain old and new infrastructure

    • refurbish infrastructure that is nearing the end of its useful life.

    None of this can be achieved without competent and prescient local government leadership.

    Eddie Rakabe is affiliated with Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflections.

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

    – ref. South Africa’s municipalities aren’t fixing roads, supplying clean water or keeping the lights on: new study explains why – https://theconversation.com/south-africas-municipalities-arent-fixing-roads-supplying-clean-water-or-keeping-the-lights-on-new-study-explains-why-233499

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Lasting peace in Ethiopia? More needs to be done to stop Tigray conflict from flaring up again

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Madhav Joshi, Research Professor & Associate Director, Peace Accords Matrix (PAM), Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies and Keough School of Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame

    It has been nearly two years since the African Union brokered a peace deal that put an end to the war between the Ethiopian state and the Tigray regional government. The signing of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement in November 2022 brought an end to a deadly two-year conflict.

    The agreement has achieved a number of outcomes. These include:

    • an end to the fighting between Tigrayan and Ethiopian armed forces

    • the creation of a transitional government in Tigray, run by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front

    • the demobilisation of 50,000 Tigrayan troops

    • the Tigray People’s Liberation Front regaining its legal status as a political party registered under special conditions

    • the approval in Addis Ababa of a transitional justice policy

    • the establishment of an AU-led monitoring and verification mission.

    But a great deal still remains to be done if the peace is going to last. We have studied 42 comprehensive and 236 partial peace agreements in the last three decades. Based on this experience, we argue that urgent issues remain to be addressed in the Ethiopian agreement. If left unattended, they raise the risk of a return to war.

    Empirical research suggests that a higher overall implementation rate of civil war peace agreements leads to sustainable peace. It is the only proven pathway for resolving remaining conflicts in a country. Doing what was agreed is necessary for post-war recovery.

    In Ethiopia, the disarmament and demobilisation of Tigrayan combatants needs urgent attention. So do the protection of civilians and returnees in disputed territories in western and northern Tigray, and the restoration of basic infrastructure in the region. The state also needs to ensure the smooth delivery of humanitarian aid, the withdrawal of foreign troops from Tigray and the representation of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front in the federal government.

    The gaps

    A substantial reason for the lack of progress in building sustainable peace is that the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement has holes in it.

    Firstly, only the immediate cessation of hostilities, and the demobilisation and disarmament of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front combatants, were set out clearly. Other principles – such as civilian protections, delivery of humanitarian aid and ensuring accountability for the conflict – were left to “good faith implementation”.

    The peace agreement and its implementation process in Tigray lack safeguard mechanisms. These are procedures involving the power-sharing government, dispute resolution and robust mechanisms to verify the implementation of the agreement. However, only the verification mechanism is in place among these three pillars, and it’s very weak. Safeguard mechanisms create ownership, inclusion and accountability. They amplify the urgency of implementing peace deals.

    Secondly, the underlying causes of conflict and grievances haven’t been dealt with as agreed. These include the withdrawal of foreign troops from Tigray, the reconstruction of conflict-affected communities and the Tigrayan government’s representation in the federal government. Addressing these grievances might create the mutual trust that is necessary to revive the stalled process of building peace.

    Read more: What is federalism? Why Ethiopia uses this system of government and why it’s not perfect

    Thirdly, while the overt conflict with Tigrayan forces has subsided, the political dialogue between the regional and national governments hasn’t happened. This dialogue is key to addressing ambiguities in the peace deal. The agreement’s success depends on actions at the federal level – such as the reparation of internally displaced persons. Yet, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front isn’t represented at this level.

    Fourth, conflict-displaced Tigrayans are slowly returning to their communities. But insecurity remains acute because it’s not clear if all Tigrayan combatants are demobilised and all troops from Eritrea withdrawn. The monitoring mechanism in place is weak and cannot independently verify what’s been achieved.

    Fifth, the Ethiopian government’s transitional justice policy is unclear. It doesn’t provide guidance on who to prosecute as there are still ongoing conflicts in Ethiopia. The policy also avoids international scrutiny. It lacks critical aspects to prevent the recurrence of atrocities by adhering to international standards.

    Political factors

    The lack of progress in building lasting peace can also be put down to a lack of political will on the part of both parties.

    The federal government lacks resources for reconstruction. For example, there has been little rebuilding of basic infrastructure. The cost of recovery from the war in Tigray is estimated to be over US$44 billion.

    For its part, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front is in the throes of a growing rift between its chairman, Debretsion Gebremichael, and the deputy chairman and head of the interim government in Tigray, Getachew Reda. This has diverted attention to managing intra-party rivalries rather than pressuring the federal government to take necessary actions.

    Debretsion is prioritising the Tigray People’s Liberation Front’s return to its past glory with control over the political structure in Tigray. Getachew is pushing for a reconciliatory approach with the government and showing a willingness to compromise the party’s position for peace and security.

    What remains to be done

    Ethiopia is facing a watershed moment. The peace agreement can be carried out faster if the Tigray People’s Liberation Front maintains its cohesiveness. When broken into factions, it cannot hold the Abiy Ahmed regime accountable.

    Research shows that rebel movements such as the Tigray People’s Liberation Front often form factions after signing peace deals because of disagreements on the compromises made to reach a deal. A slow implementation process can further divide a rebel movement as it cannot cater to its supporters, or justify the war and unaddressed humanitarian and human rights abuses.

    Factions weaken the party, create instabilities and hurt the peace building process.

    The Tigray People’s Liberation Front’s unity is crucial for the success of the deal and its aspiration to return to political power in Tigray.

    – Lasting peace in Ethiopia? More needs to be done to stop Tigray conflict from flaring up again
    – https://theconversation.com/lasting-peace-in-ethiopia-more-needs-to-be-done-to-stop-tigray-conflict-from-flaring-up-again-239847

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: What makes a person seem wise? Global study finds that cultures do differ – but not as much as you’d think

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Maksim Rudnev, Research Associate, Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo

    We all admire wise people, don’t we? Whether it’s a thoughtful teacher, a compassionate doctor, or an elder in the community, we recognise wisdom when we see it. But have you ever thought about how people in different cultures perceive wisdom? Does someone in Morocco view a wise person in the same way as someone in Ecuador? Our recent study explored how people across cultures think of wisdom.

    This large-scale project required a joint effort of 34 researchers across fields of philosophy, psychology, anthropology, social science and psychometrics – and from all over the world, connected in a research consortium called The Geography of Philosophy.

    What we found was somewhat surprising. Wisdom may appear to be shaped by cultural differences, but the core aspects of what makes someone wise are largely the same across cultures. From urban college students in Japan to villagers in South Africa, participants associated wisdom with two key characteristics: reflective orientation and socio-emotional awareness. We explain what that means below.

    Contrary to widespread stereotypes, people recognise wisdom in a similar way across east and west, south and north. Despite the divisions of the world, we see wisdom in the same individuals and associate it with similar traits. Are we indeed more alike than we are different, when it comes to how we perceive wisdom? And what characterises wise people?

    These are the characteristics of wise people

    There are two key characteristics. Reflective orientation is about people who think before acting, carefully consider different perspectives, and use logic and past experiences to guide their decisions. They’re the type of person who keeps their cool in difficult situations, taking time to weigh all the options before making a move.

    The second is socio-emotional awareness. Wise people are good at understanding and caring about the thoughts and feelings of others. They pay attention to emotions and consider different views on the situation. Such an individual might be skilled at mediating conflicts by understanding each party’s point of view, or be adept at providing emotional support during difficult times.

    Together, these two dimensions combine to form the global image of wisdom. The study suggests that the wisest people are those who balance both, showing strong abilities in reasoning while also being emotionally and socially aware.

    A highly reflective person who is suppressing their own emotions but doesn’t notice the social context of the problem wouldn’t be called wise. Likewise, someone who is entirely driven by emotion and the social environment but fails to make logical connections wouldn’t be called wise either. Real wisdom, according to our study, is about finding a balance between thoughtful reasoning, social understanding, and emotional awareness.

    Cultures do differ, but not as much as you might think

    To uncover these dimensions, we employed a method sometimes called experimental philosophy. Participants across 16 different cultures in 12 countries on five continents compared a set of targets to each other. For example, one of the questions asked participants to compare whether a doctor or a religious person was more likely to think logically when making a hard life decision with no right or wrong answers. Our participants also rated themselves. Then we asked how wise each of these persons were.

    When we started this project, we expected to find big differences between cultures. Previous research suggested that people in “the west” use and value analytical thinking, which tends to dismiss social and emotional parts of the situation. In contrast, individuals in “the east” emphasise holistic thinking, that is, all-encompassing views of complex situations.

    But that’s not what we found. While there were some small differences – people in South Africa, for example, placed more importance on nature and divinity when thinking about socio-emotional awareness – the overall picture was strikingly similar. Across the globe, people rated individuals who were both reflective and socially and emotionally aware as the wisest. For instance, they named a doctor and a 75-year-old person as the wisest, and at the same time the highest on both dimensions.

    What was particularly fascinating was that people tended to rate themselves differently from how they rated others. Most people saw themselves as less reflective but more socially and emotionally aware than the “wise” figures they were asked to rate. In other words, people were ready to admit a moderate level of their own intellectual capabilities, but they were quite confident in their ability to understand and care for others.

    Why this matters

    This research defies stereotypes of a cold analytical ideal of “the west” and a social-minded and emotionally driven image of “the east” and “the south”. The idea that wisdom is purely intellectual, or conversely, purely social or divine, is too simplistic. It also highlights that wisdom manifests in a balance of traits traditionally attributed to different cultures.

    In a time when global cooperation is more important than ever, recognising our shared appreciation for certain qualities can help bridge cultural divides.

    The study opens up new avenues for research. Could these dimensions of wisdom help us understand how to solve global problems? Are people more likely to trust leaders who show both reflective thinking and socio-emotional awareness? And how do these qualities affect the way we handle personal relationships, difficult decisions, or conflicts?

    One thing is clear: wisdom is something we all value, no matter where we come from. By understanding it better, we can not only become wiser ourselves but also learn to appreciate wisdom in others, wherever they may be.

    – What makes a person seem wise? Global study finds that cultures do differ – but not as much as you’d think
    – https://theconversation.com/what-makes-a-person-seem-wise-global-study-finds-that-cultures-do-differ-but-not-as-much-as-youd-think-238808

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa’s municipalities aren’t fixing roads, supplying clean water or keeping the lights on: new study explains why

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ramos Emmanuel Mabugu, Professor, Sol Plaatje University

    South Africa has a massive infrastructure problem. Roads, electricity supply and water management are just three areas in which there is mounting evidence of collapse and decay. This is true for big cities like Johannesburg as well as small towns and rural areas.

    This is a problem because infrastructure like this has huge economic benefits. Having water and electricity enables firms to run smoothly. Local roads improve mobility and access to markets.

    A study by South Africa’s Financial and Fiscal Commission in 2018 showed that infrastructure spending had a statistically significant positive impact on local employment and economic growth.

    Responsibility for maintaining these essential services lies with South Africa’s 257 municipalities. Funding comes from two pots: central government allocation; and revenue raised locally through the delivery of services.

    The national government has increased its financial transfers to municipalities for infrastructure investment by more than 3.5 times in local currency over the past 14 years. In that period municipalities have received almost R600 billion (US$45,5 billion) from national government.

    Why do local governments have little to show for it?

    We have been researching South Africa’s public finances and intergovernmental fiscal relations issues for many years. In a recent paper we evaluated how municipalities have managed the delivery of infrastructure.

    We found that:

    • municipalities have failed to effectively use increased infrastructure allocations

    • municipalities have not chosen the right infrastructure projects

    • projects have not been implemented cost effectively

    • projects have not been completed on time and within budget

    • infrastructure was not being operated efficiently

    • existing infrastructure was not being maintained.

    The failures

    We identified the following failures.

    People resources: Most of South Africa’s 257 municipalities lack the required capacity for managing infrastructure. Only a few have fully resourced project management units. In addition, there are cumbersome and costly infrastructure planning processes and legislative requirements. For instance, municipalities must conduct a feasibility study and appoint a steering committee for each project. The resources required for this are overwhelming for many and the process simply shifts the limited resources away from the actual infrastructure work.

    These problems have persisted despite many years of reforms and increased technical and financial support.

    Poor allocation of funds: Most allocations by national government for infrastructure have been in the form of conditional grants. These stipulate conditions for what type of infrastructure the money can be spent on.

    However, this hasn’t stopped the grants being allocated to prolonged or abandoned projects. The result is that many municipalities have been using recurring budget allocations to rectify poor workmanship and abandoned projects.

    Political interference: Where infrastructure has been built it is not well maintained. This is partly because politicians tend to prefer new infrastructure which comes with opportunities for ribbon cutting ceremonies. But some of this infrastructure doesn’t match the needs of communities, and becomes a white elephant.

    Bureaucracy: Municipalities share responsibility with national and provincial governments for some local infrastructure investments. But joint planning and budgeting is lacking. So water and electricity reticulation networks are often installed without sufficient bulk supply from the relevant providers.

    Service delays then lead to community protest and infrastructure vandalism.

    The role of national government departments also creates problems. They are the custodians of conditional infrastructure grant funding. In this role they often interfere and dictate priorities for municipalities while attaching stringent conditions to funding.

    Lack of ownership: Frustrated by the ongoing inability to spend infrastructure funds, national government is increasingly carrying out projects on behalf of municipalities, often using indirect grants. The result is that municipalities have no sense of ownership of the infrastructure and are not keen to maintain it. Some of the landfill sites and sport facilities constructed by the national departments of environmental affairs and sports have been neglected.

    We also found that municipalities are battling to keep up with growing populations, rising input costs and the vandalisation of infrastructure.

    Our findings are confirmed by reports of the auditor-general which highlight weak municipal infrastructure delivery management.

    The 2021–2022 auditor-general’s report found that the average delay in completing infrastructure projects ranged from 17 to 26 months.

    It also found that all 257 municipalities had spent only R18 billion (US$1.2 billion) on infrastructure maintenance. This represents 4% of the total value (R450 billion or US$30.6 billion) of municipal assets. This low spend increases the risk of infrastructure breakdown and reduces service level standards.

    It also rapidly increases the pace and cost of infrastructure upgrading and replacement.

    The solutions

    The failure to deliver infrastructure has itself affected the financial stability of municipalities. This is because they can generate their own revenue from selling water and electricity to residents. A collapse of these services means this income is lost.

    But debates on municipal infrastructure in South Africa have largely focused on funding shortfalls. This ignores weaknesses or a lack of municipal capacity to manage infrastructure projects. Giving municipalities money for infrastructure does not guarantee quality and long-lasting infrastructure.

    Municipalities need to:

    • focus on the full life cycle management of infrastructure instead of just rolling out new projects

    • plan for relevant infrastructure that responds to local circumstances

    • maintain old and new infrastructure

    • refurbish infrastructure that is nearing the end of its useful life.

    None of this can be achieved without competent and prescient local government leadership.

    – South Africa’s municipalities aren’t fixing roads, supplying clean water or keeping the lights on: new study explains why
    – https://theconversation.com/south-africas-municipalities-arent-fixing-roads-supplying-clean-water-or-keeping-the-lights-on-new-study-explains-why-233499

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: New tech at expo signals China’s foreign trade momentum

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Robots perform dance at a booth during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The third Global Digital Trade Expo, currently unfolding in Hangzhou, capital of east China’s Zhejiang Province, is offering a glimpse into avant-garde technologies that are unlocking the country’s burgeoning potential in foreign trade.

    Over the span of five days, the exhibition is featuring 446 new products and technologies, ranging from robots performing remarkable tasks like opening bottles and sorting waste to AI-driven digital humans engaging in debate competitions.

    “I was impressed most by medical AI displayed at the exhibition, such as robotic surgical arms and screening clinics,” said Kgaladi Melia Thema, a consultant for innovation and technology of Small Enterprise Development Agency, South Africa.

    “Nurses can use chronic disease management screening products for patients, which can be applied both at home and in clinics. This reduces costs and enables remote patient monitoring, offering great potential,” she added.

    Digital technologies such as big data, cloud computing and blockchain are taking center stage at the expo, underscoring how China is harnessing these innovations to propel its foreign trade.

    At the booth of iFLYTEK Co., Ltd., a front-runner in China’s AI and speech technology industry, several African visitors were immersed in real-time conversations with staff through a state-of-the-art multilingual AI-powered translation screen. Despite the bustling environment, the screen, equipped with advanced voice recognition technologies, accurately captured and responded to human voices.

    “Overseas business is poised to become a significant growth engine for us in the coming years. Our aspiration is for it to constitute one-third of our business segments in the future,” said Liu Qingfeng, chairman of iFLYTEK.

    Chinese cultural exports are also stealing the show at the exhibition. In the digital entertainment zone, innovative exhibits such as an AI-powered representation of Su Dongpo, a celebrated poet from the Song Dynasty (960-1279), a virtual museum of traditional Chinese music, as well as a 3D display of the four bronze animal heads from the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan), are offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the richness of Chinese culture.

    “The fusion of digital technology with the splendor of traditional Chinese culture has not only expanded our export opportunities, but also invigorated the growth of China’s culture industry,” said Wu Shuang, a staff member of Zhejiang Kayou Animation Co., Ltd., a domestic card game creator.

    Visitors are also being treated to futuristic transportation solutions, including autonomous boat taxis and the electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles, all being showcased for the first time at this year’s expo.

    “China is rightly regarded as a global leader in digital technologies and innovations,” said Zhaslan Madiyev, minister of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan, adding that China’s advancement in digital trade is not only creating new avenues for cooperation, but also enhancing global trade infrastructure, fostering sustainable development worldwide.

    “Chinese technologies and innovations are enhancing supply chains, making them faster and more efficient, while also improving access to goods and services,” Madiyev noted.

    According to the Global Digital Trade Development Report 2024 released during the event, global digital trade soared to around 7.13 trillion U.S. dollars (about 1.02 trillion yuan) in 2023, up from 6.02 trillion U.S. dollars in 2021, marking an average annual growth rate of 8.8 percent.

    The report also highlighted that the import and export scale of China’s cross-border e-commerce reached 2.37 trillion yuan last year, up 15.3 percent year on year.

    Mercado Libre, a leading Latin American e-commerce platform, witnessed a 70-percent increase in online Chinese sellers and a 75-percent surge in their sales on its platform in 2023.

    The company has opened its cross-border e-commerce services to Chinese sellers in Mexico, Brazil, Chile and Colombia, according to its representative at the expo, who also emphasized the escalating significance of the Chinese market.

    As China’s sole national-level event focusing on the theme of digital trade, the expo has drawn over 1,500 enterprises, including more than 300 international companies, and over 30,000 purchasers this year.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: 2nd China supply chain expo to boost support for African participants

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), scheduled from Nov. 26 to 30 this year, will offer increased support for participants from African countries, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) said on Sunday.

    The enhanced support aims to “voluntarily and unilaterally open the Chinese market wider to Africa,” following a decision made during the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation earlier this month, CCPIT spokesperson Wang Linjie told a press conference.

    Specifically, the expo will tailor country-specific strategies to better match supply and demand, helping African businesses find suitable partners and purchasers in China, Wang said.

    It will also feature forums and sideline events bringing together delegates from African governments, business associations, think tanks and international organizations, aiming to bolster Africa’s presence in global industrial and supply chain cooperation, the spokesperson added.

    “We will leverage the CISCE’s role in promoting trade, investment, innovation and exchange to help Chinese and African companies deepen industrial and supply chain cooperation, while fostering mutual business growth, shared interests and common advancements,” Wang added.

    Multiple African countries, including Ethiopia, Cote d’Ivoire, Rwanda and Morocco, along with the African Union, have confirmed their participation in the second CISCE, focusing on sectors such as agriculture and mining.

    A recent official report showed that China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner for the 15th consecutive year, with bilateral trade reaching 282.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2023.

    China has announced that it will give all the least developed countries having diplomatic relations with China, including 33 countries in Africa, zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China provides vibrant digital trade cooperation platform with int’l expo

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Sales staff promote African products via livestreaming during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The third Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE), concluding on Sunday, has been a vibrant platform for fostering global partnerships in digital commerce and thus sustainable growth.

    Held in Hangzhou, a city known for blending ancient charm and modern innovation, the expo featured more than 1,500 enterprises, including over 300 international companies.

    Attendees experienced cutting-edge innovations like AI-driven robots and hydrogen-powered drones and were presented with over 400 new products and technologies.

    Valuable experience

    Kazakh Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry Zhaslan Madiyev highlighted China’s role as a global leader in e-commerce and digital technologies, noting that China is accelerating the digital transformation of markets worldwide.

    In a written interview with Xinhua, Madiyev said China’s experience offers valuable insights for countries in the early stages of developing their digital markets, aiding global growth and helping reduce digital inequality. He cited Kazakhstan’s efforts to improve telecommunications and cybersecurity by learning from China.

    In addition to cutting-edge technologies, China’s experience in e-commerce also set an example for countries seeking to capitalize on the rapid growth of digital trade.

    Kilimall, an e-commerce platform founded by Chinese entrepreneurs in Africa in 2014, has become one of the most popular shopping websites among Africans. It has generated about 10,000 local jobs in logistics, courier services, customer support and regional sales.

    The cooperation between China and Africa in digital economy “represents a new model of economic cooperation that creates tangible value for businesses and people on both sides” said Ugandan Ambassador to China Oliver Wonekha.

    Digitalization is a technological leap and a key driver of future development for countries and businesses, said Jean Louis Robinson, ambassador of Madagascar to China. “We are eager to work closely with Chinese companies to learn from China’s advanced experience in digital economy and promote sustainable development in Madagascar,” he added.

    Robots perform dance at a booth during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Vast opportunities

    China’s advanced digital economy and vast market scale are creating immense opportunities for the world, said experts and attendees at the expo.

    “For us, China is not just a sales market,” said Lyu Feng, division head of public relations at Yokogawa China, a Japanese electric firm. He highlighted China’s vast emerging industries, strong market demand, and numerous high-tech companies.

    Lyu added that the company emphasizes collaborating with Chinese enterprises to explore new opportunities, particularly in digital transformation and carbon emissions management in the manufacturing sector.

    Zhu Lili, vice president of AstraZeneca China, expressed that the pharmaceutical giant is “highly confident” in the Chinese market and its innovation ecosystem. She emphasized the company’s goal to partner with more local firms to explore the application of digital technologies in healthcare, driving sustainable and high-quality growth for both the healthcare industry and the broader economy.

    In the first half of 2024, China’s cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 1.22 trillion yuan (about 170 billion U.S. dollars), an increase of 10.5 percent year over year, according to customs data.

    Kazakhstan has opened national pavilions on Chinese e-commerce platforms like Alibaba and JD.com to promote products such as powdered milk, safflower oil, and honey, boosting bilateral e-commerce ties, Serik Korzhumbayev, editor-in-chief of Delovoy Kazakhstan, told Xinhua.

    Yao Hongchun, vice president of the Thai Chinese New Generation Business Association, emphasized its potential for collaboration with China, mainly through advanced e-commerce technologies tailored to Thai consumers.

    A foreign merchant consults about a small intelligent translation device at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Cooperation platform

    “E-commerce can be successful and further developed in the long run if everyone can find their way in it, if it is based on close international cooperation, if it is diversified and if as many countries as possible are involved on both the manufacturer and the buyer side,” Hungarian National Assembly’s Deputy Speaker Lajos Olah said at the opening ceremony of the expo.

    By July 2024, China has signed e-commerce cooperation memorandums of understanding with 33 countries spanning five continents.

    Additionally, China has been involved in digital economy collaborations through multilateral frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, and the G20, according to an e-commerce development report released by China’s Ministry of Commerce during the expo.

    Beyond exhibitions, this year’s GDTE also featured multiple forums, meetings, and seminars, providing officials and industry leaders with platforms to exchange views and discuss prospects for international collaboration.

    Through participating in the expo, Thailand is ready to work with partners in trade, investment, research, and development to expand its digital products and services, aiming to integrate into key global supply chains, Thailand’s Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Ekachat Seetavorarat told Xinhua on the sidelines of the expo.

    Madiyev also highlighted the GDTE as a unique opportunity to exchange experiences with leading global players in the digital economy and expand economic ties with other countries, particularly China.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China provides vibrant digital trade cooperation platform

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Sales staff promote African products via livestreaming during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The third Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE), concluding on Sunday, has been a vibrant platform for fostering global partnerships in digital commerce and thus sustainable growth.

    Held in Hangzhou, a city known for blending ancient charm and modern innovation, the expo featured more than 1,500 enterprises, including over 300 international companies.

    Attendees experienced cutting-edge innovations like AI-driven robots and hydrogen-powered drones and were presented with over 400 new products and technologies.

    Valuable experience

    Kazakh Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry Zhaslan Madiyev highlighted China’s role as a global leader in e-commerce and digital technologies, noting that China is accelerating the digital transformation of markets worldwide.

    In a written interview with Xinhua, Madiyev said China’s experience offers valuable insights for countries in the early stages of developing their digital markets, aiding global growth and helping reduce digital inequality. He cited Kazakhstan’s efforts to improve telecommunications and cybersecurity by learning from China.

    In addition to cutting-edge technologies, China’s experience in e-commerce also set an example for countries seeking to capitalize on the rapid growth of digital trade.

    Kilimall, an e-commerce platform founded by Chinese entrepreneurs in Africa in 2014, has become one of the most popular shopping websites among Africans. It has generated about 10,000 local jobs in logistics, courier services, customer support and regional sales.

    The cooperation between China and Africa in digital economy “represents a new model of economic cooperation that creates tangible value for businesses and people on both sides” said Ugandan Ambassador to China Oliver Wonekha.

    Digitalization is a technological leap and a key driver of future development for countries and businesses, said Jean Louis Robinson, ambassador of Madagascar to China. “We are eager to work closely with Chinese companies to learn from China’s advanced experience in digital economy and promote sustainable development in Madagascar,” he added.

    Robots perform dance at a booth during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Vast opportunities

    China’s advanced digital economy and vast market scale are creating immense opportunities for the world, said experts and attendees at the expo.

    “For us, China is not just a sales market,” said Lyu Feng, division head of public relations at Yokogawa China, a Japanese electric firm. He highlighted China’s vast emerging industries, strong market demand, and numerous high-tech companies.

    Lyu added that the company emphasizes collaborating with Chinese enterprises to explore new opportunities, particularly in digital transformation and carbon emissions management in the manufacturing sector.

    Zhu Lili, vice president of AstraZeneca China, expressed that the pharmaceutical giant is “highly confident” in the Chinese market and its innovation ecosystem. She emphasized the company’s goal to partner with more local firms to explore the application of digital technologies in healthcare, driving sustainable and high-quality growth for both the healthcare industry and the broader economy.

    In the first half of 2024, China’s cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 1.22 trillion yuan (about 170 billion U.S. dollars), an increase of 10.5 percent year over year, according to customs data.

    Kazakhstan has opened national pavilions on Chinese e-commerce platforms like Alibaba and JD.com to promote products such as powdered milk, safflower oil, and honey, boosting bilateral e-commerce ties, Serik Korzhumbayev, editor-in-chief of Delovoy Kazakhstan, told Xinhua.

    Yao Hongchun, vice president of the Thai Chinese New Generation Business Association, emphasized its potential for collaboration with China, mainly through advanced e-commerce technologies tailored to Thai consumers.

    A foreign merchant consults about a small intelligent translation device at the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Cooperation platform

    “E-commerce can be successful and further developed in the long run if everyone can find their way in it, if it is based on close international cooperation, if it is diversified and if as many countries as possible are involved on both the manufacturer and the buyer side,” Hungarian National Assembly’s Deputy Speaker Lajos Olah said at the opening ceremony of the expo.

    By July 2024, China has signed e-commerce cooperation memorandums of understanding with 33 countries spanning five continents.

    Additionally, China has been involved in digital economy collaborations through multilateral frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, and the G20, according to an e-commerce development report released by China’s Ministry of Commerce during the expo.

    Beyond exhibitions, this year’s GDTE also featured multiple forums, meetings, and seminars, providing officials and industry leaders with platforms to exchange views and discuss prospects for international collaboration.

    Through participating in the expo, Thailand is ready to work with partners in trade, investment, research, and development to expand its digital products and services, aiming to integrate into key global supply chains, Thailand’s Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Ekachat Seetavorarat told Xinhua on the sidelines of the expo.

    Madiyev also highlighted the GDTE as a unique opportunity to exchange experiences with leading global players in the digital economy and expand economic ties with other countries, particularly China.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Launches OmniConnect Dev Kit, Bridging A Billion Telegram Users to Multichain Web3 Ecosystems

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Sept. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, has announced the launch of OmniConnect, a software development kit that enables developers to seamlessly connect Telegram Mini-Apps to multichain ecosystems across over 500 blockchains including mainnets like Solana, TON and all EVM-compatible chains. The integration allows Telegram Mini-Apps to utilize Bitget Wallet for signing and conducting transactions across multiple blockchain networks. The future plans of OmniConnect go beyond supporting Telegram Mini-Apps, aiming to expand to plugins, mobile apps, and web platforms, allowing seamless interactions across any blockchain.

    This release signifies a major leap in the integration of Web3 ecosystems with Telegram, offering over a billion Telegram users and developers a simplified, efficient way to interact with multiple blockchains. By integrating with Bitget Wallet, Telegram transforms into a comprehensive gateway to Web3, facilitating a smoother transition from Web2. The Telegram Mini-Apps play a crucial role in onboarding new users to Web3, offering an accessible entry point for individuals who have not previously interacted with decentralized technologies. This aligns with Bitget Wallet’s vision to connect a billion users from social platforms to the entire Web3 world, forming a core part of the broader Bitget Onchain Layer strategy.

    Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet, highlighted the importance of this development, stating, “Previously, Telegram Mini-Apps could only interact with the TON network, making it difficult to engage with other public chains. Bitget Wallet’s OmniConnect aims to bridge this gap, enabling seamless multi-chain interaction via Bitget Wallet. We’re excited for more developers and blockchain ecosystems to join us in building a more open and thriving Web3 environment on Telegram.” Additionally, Bitget Wallet is set to announce further initiatives aimed at empowering the broader Mini-App ecosystem and deepening integration with Telegram, which are expected to enhance the capabilities and reach of both platforms and benefit the wider builder community.

    Bitget Wallet has already established deep integration within the Telegram and TON ecosystems, partnering with major projects like Tomarket, Catizen, and Yescoin. It was the first to extend MPC keyless wallet to the TON mainnet, developed trading bots for Telegram, and provided multi-chain trading, zero-gas fee experiences on TON DApps, and access to popular project airdrops. Through these efforts, Bitget Wallet has positioned itself as a crucial infrastructure in the Telegram ecosystem. In August 2024 alone, Bitget Wallet saw nearly 2 million downloads, making it the most downloaded wallet globally according to App Store and Google Play data.

    With over 30 million global users, Bitget Wallet is committed to driving mass adoption of Web3 by simplifying access through its MPC keyless wallet, which enables secure logins using familiar methods like email, Apple ID, Google accounts, and Telegram. As an all-in-one platform wallet, Bitget Wallet continues expanding its features in directions like “Wallet+Trading,” allowing users to trade directly within their wallets, and “Wallet+Social,” which integrates social functionalities and connects with Telegram and multi-chain ecosystems. Alvin Kan added, “Our goal is to be the gateway for mass Web3 adoption, making it easy for even non-Web3 users to access DeFi, blockchain games, and the broader crypto ecosystem.”

    Go to OmniConnect Dev Kit: https://web3.bitget.com/en/docs/dapp/telegram-webapps-wc.html

    About Bitget Wallet

    Bitget Wallet stands as one of the world’s leading non-custodial Web3 wallets and decentralized ecosystem platform. With the Bitget Onchain Layer, the wallet is well-poised to develop a burgeoning DeFi ecosystem through co-creation and strategic incubation. Aside from a powerful Swap function, Bitget Wallet also offers multi-chain asset management, smart money insights, a native Launchpad, Inscriptions Center, and an Earning Center. Supporting over 100 major blockchains, 250,000+ tokens, and a wide array of DApps, Bitget Wallet is your top wallet for asset discovery and Web3 exploration.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4de495e5-b690-43d6-9e5a-4c551ce65302

    The MIL Network –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Foreign Minister completes successful week of international engagements

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters today wrapped up a week of high-level engagements at the United Nations in New York and in Papeete, French Polynesia.

    “Our visit to New York was about demonstrating New Zealand’s unwavering support for an international system based on rules and respect for the UN Charter, as articulated by then Prime Minister Peter Fraser at the UN’s founding on behalf of New Zealand people,” Mr Peters says.

    “The UN Security Council remains at the centre of the international peace and security system. Our bid for a seat on the Security Council for the 2039-40 term is both important and necessary. As a small state and country of the Pacific, we look forward to again bringing a constructive voice to the top table.”

    While in New York, Mr Peters also engaged in several high-level meetings and held talks with a range of counterparts, including from Iceland, Italy, Jordan, Egypt, Netherlands, Costa Rica, Sweden, Kiribati, Maldives, Palestinian Authority, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.

    “Our talks in Papeete today with President Moetai Brotherson, French High Commissioner Dominique Sorain, former Presidents Édouard Fritch and Oscar Temaru, Members of Parliament, and business leaders reinforced the warm and enduring relationships between New Zealand, French Polynesia and France”, Mr Peters says.

    Mr Peters is aiming to visit all 17 other Pacific Islands Forum countries in 2024. French Polynesia was the 15th he visited, leaving only New Caledonia and Kiribati to go. 

    Mr Peters returns to New Zealand later today.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: DOOR STOP BY ACTING PRESIDENT SHIPOKOSA PAULUS MASHATILE AT THE COMMEMORATION OF HERITAGE DAY

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    DOOR STOP BY ACTING PRESIDENT SHIPOKOSA PAULUS MASHATILE ON THE OCCASION OF THE COMMEMORATION OF HERITAGE DAY AT MEQHELENG STADIUM, FICKSBURG, FREE STATE PROVINCE, 24 SEPTEMBER 2024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QnPZtclavo

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Press Release 30 September 2024 Major international drought conference seeks to increase resilience

    Source: World Meteorological Organization

    Experts, policymakers, and practitioners will gather at the headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization at the Drought Resilience +10 Conference – so called because it marks a decade since the High-Level Meeting on National Drought Policy.

    The conference provides an opportunity for global stakeholders to reflect on a decade of advancements in drought preparedness, response, and adaptation while exploring new ways to turn knowledge into practical solutions that can help countries become more drought-resilient.

    “Droughts are an insidious and dangerous climate-related hazard, which undermines food human security and is a major cause of internal displacement in worst-hit countries. It can wreak a devastating impact on the environment and economies and reverse progress in sustainable development,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.

    “We need sustainable solutions, based on scientific knowledge and tailored policies that promote integrated drought management practices and policies. We have the knowledge and the tools but we all too often lack the necessary political will and financial investment to build drought-resilient societies,” said Celeste Saulo.

    The Conference will focus on the escalating drought-related risks posed by climate change and increasing structural vulnerabilities in many societies. It will examine how to accelerate the shift in approach from a reactive, crisis-driven one to a more proactive approach, which leverages climate services such as seasonal forecasts, and anticipatory action tools, including innovative financing mechanisms.

    The conference will examine drought monitoring and forecasting advances and will discuss how to strengthen drought monitoring for early warnings for food security and health, and how to embed policies into the international Early Warnings for All initiative. There will be a heavy emphasis on case studies and community-led actions.

    It will also look at scientific and policy-making developments, including progress in satellite technology and artificial intelligence tools, which bring new perspectives to forecasting, monitoring and impact assessment.

    Drought is not a new phenomenon and has historically occurred as a consequence of natural climatic variability. However, climate change is intensifying the water cycle. This brings more intense rainfall and associated flooding, as well as more intense drought in many regions, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

    Changes in land use and land cover are compounding the challenge.

    “Healthy economies depend on healthy lands. We must urgently recognize that our land and natural systems are allies in our responses to climate change and drought, and we must leverage them for integrated, proactive drought management. Drought Resilience +10 is a crucial opportunity to exchange knowledge and build momentum for UNCCD COP16, which will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2 to 13 December”, remarked the UNCCD Deputy Executive Secretary Andrea Meza.

    Drought Resilience +10 Conference

    State of Climate

    Between 1970 and 2019 drought caused approximately 650,000 reported deaths. Poverty and poor land use can increase vulnerability to drought and intensify their impact, according to the WMO Atlas of Mortality and Economic Losses from Weather, Climate and Water Extremes.

    In Africa, 1 839 disasters attributed to weather, climate and water extremes were reported between 1970 and 2021. They caused 733 585 reported deaths and US$ 43 billion in economic losses. Droughts accounted for 95% of reported deaths.

    WMO State of the Climate reports report on the occurrence and impact of droughts.

    For instance, a prolonged La Niña event led to five consecutive failed rainfall seasons in the Horn of Africa, culminating in a massive humanitarian, food security and displacement crisis in 2023 in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.

    With the transition to El Niño in 2023-2024, Southern African nations became the focus of the drought crisis – especially countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi.

    Enhanced drought resilience

    Despite the challenges, progress has been made in integrated drought management.

    The Integrated Drought Management Programme (IDMP) is a joint initiative between WMO and the Global Water Partnership (GWP), which works with over 45 partners to support countries and states, by providing them with policy and management guidance for handing droughts.

    There are a number of success stories. These examples underscore the importance of strong drought management policies and early warning systems. They highlight the need for governments to adopt forward-looking approaches that integrate climate data and resource management into their drought preparedness strategies.

    Brazil’s Northeast region, which historically faces frequent and severe droughts, provides a prime example of the benefits of proactive drought management policies. Recent policy responses focused on developing a comprehensive drought management system that integrates early warning systems, sustainable water management practices, and integration of climate change scenarios into infrastructure planning. Coordination between federal, state, and local governments was also enhanced to facilitate timely and efficient responses.  

    Similarly, in the USA, a proactive approach helped mitigate the effects of a severe water shortage in the State of Washington in 2024. With water supplies falling below 75% of normal levels in April, the state issued an early emergency drought declaration, unlocking funding for drought relief measures. This early action allowed communities and public entities to access funding for drought relief in advance, giving them time to implement mitigation strategies such as securing alternative water supplies and preparing for reduced irrigation.

    Drought Resilience +10 Conference

    Conference themes

    Discussions at DR+10 will focus on nine topics, each addressing key aspects of drought management and reflecting the central challenges and opportunities for building drought resilience globally.

    It will include national and regional case studies
    These include:

    • Drought resilience and global mechanisms
    • Drought risk governance: the regional, national and local challenges
    • Drought monitoring, impact assessment and forecasting
    • From policies to action
    • Ecosystems
    • Social inclusion and climate justice
    • Drought finance
    • Public-private civil society partnerships
    • Health

    There will be a high-level closing session: Turning Drought Resilience Challenges into Action.

    The Conference’s final declaration will include recommendations for countries to accelerate drought resilience efforts over the next decade. It will focus on policy implementation, drought resilience in countries’ preparedness plans, and adaptation strategies. It will also seek to mobilize resources to support vulnerable countries facing drought-related challenges.

    The outcomes of the Conference will inform the global drought community as well as the high-level discussions at the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP-16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Riyadh in December 2024.

    Logos of the World Meteorological Organization, Drought Resilience High-Level Meeting on National Drought Policy, and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.

    The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for promoting international cooperation in atmospheric science and meteorology.

    WMO monitors weather, climate, and water resources and provides support to its Members in forecasting and disaster mitigation. The organization is committed to advancing scientific knowledge and improving public safety and well-being through its work.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s video message to the Forum of Mayors “Cities Summit of the Future”

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong>Download the video: https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+25+Jul+24/3240997_MSG+SG+FORUM+OF+MAYORS++25+JUL+24.mp4

    Dear distinguished Mayors, Dear Friends,

    I want to thank the Forum of Mayors for your leadership – and for advancing progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.

    Cities are on the frontlines of shaping a world that is more prosperous, sustainable, inclusive, and interconnected.

    This gathering shows you are once again on the frontlines of innovation and change.

    The Summit of the Future has just concluded, and you are already joining forces to move the agenda where it matters most – at the local level, on the ground, in people’s lives.

    As Secretary-General, I recognize and applaud your pivotal role – which is one reason I created the UN Advisory Group on Local and Regional Governments.

    I have seen how cities are engine rooms to transform sustainable development goals into sustainable development realities. 

    By working to tackle the climate crisis and create green jobs.

    By building inclusive and equitable communities.

    By helping families stay afloat during economic hard times.

    Cities are magnets for hope and opportunity for so many people around the world. 

    Thank you for transforming that hope into action.   

    Thank you for coming together to take the vision of the Summit of the Future forward for Cities of the future.

    We need your energy, initiatives, and ideas more than ever.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pan-African partnership reaches milestone for long-term climate finance solutions in Kenya

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Mobilisation of climate finance set to be boosted across East Africa through new UK-backed company as investors put pen to paper to begin operations.

    • Investors back Dhamana Guarantee Company’s work to transform East Africa’s financial landscape.

    • Tackling climate change given another boost in Kenya as, for second time in a week, a UK-Government backed investor in green finance solutions puts pen to paper.

    Monday 30 September 2024 – Dhamana Guarantee Company Ltd (Dhamana) has reached a major milestone, marked at an event in Nairobi today.

    Investors in the new company put pen to paper at a signing ceremony, which will allow the company to kick-start operations.

    Dhamana aims to mobilise private sector finance to support the development of sustainable businesses. It will do so by issuing guarantees to commercially viable projects, businesses, and institutions that tackle the climate crisis and make progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The design and creation of the company was supported by the UK-Government backed investor the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) through InfraCo Africa. With its anchor investment, PIDG kick-started Dhamana, attracting further equity investment from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and CPF Group, with support provided by Cardano Development and FSD Africa.

    Dhamana is a new limited liability company based in Kenya with a mandate to deliver for the East African region – including – Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda. It will provide credit guarantees on debt capital market instruments, to boost the credit rating of such instruments and crowd in investment from pension funds, insurance companies and sovereign wealth funds to support sustainable infrastructure and business development in East Africa.

    Dhamana will target businesses that add value to people’s lives, improving the day-to-day life of Kenyans and of people across the region. The increase in affordable finance for Kenyan businesses will mean projects will require less capital to get off the ground, make money, and generate growth. Dhamana will also enable investors to diversify their portfolios, acting as a catalyst to transform East Africa’s financing landscape.

    This is the second time in a week that an investor in climate solutions backed by the UK Government has achieved a milestone. Last week, MOBILIST signed a partnership with the Nairobi Securities Exchange which aims to drive the listing of new investment products in the Kenyan market and increase the amount of private sector capital available for development and climate projects in Kenya and drive growth.

    Dhamana CEO, Christopher Olobo, said:

    With the support of our investors and supporters, we have worked to develop Dhamana as an important catalyst for long-term sustainable finance in the region. Dhamana’s local currency guarantees will connect pools of untapped capital with East Africa’s real economy, making a tangible difference to people’s lives and offering local investors the opportunity to invest in Paris-aligned initiatives.

    Deputy High Commissioner and Development Director, British High Commission Nairobi, Leigh Stubblefield, said:

    For the second time in a week I am proud to say that the UK has supported a climate finance solution in Kenya – an example of our long-term commitment to long-term investment and growth. This is a great pan-Africa partnership that will improve the lives of East Africans for the better, and as the saying goes, we go far when we go together.

    Representing PIDG, InfraCo Africa CEO, Gilles Vaes, added:

    Building on the success of other PIDG-supported credit enhancement facilities in Nigeria and Pakistan, Dhamana will demonstrate the value of such a facility in the East African market, opening up opportunities for investors and clients alike. Crucially, Dhamana will engage new partners and investors in our efforts to urgently address the climate crisis and accelerate delivery of the UN sustainable development goals.

    In his remarks at the launch event, Solomon Quaynor, African Development Bank Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure & Industrialisation, said:

    The African Development Bank’s equity investment in Dhamana reinforces the catalytic role and potential of credit enhancement companies in leveraging opportunities for infrastructure financing in local currency and supporting debt capital markets deepening in our regional member countries. We intend to replicate this business model in appropriate markets across Africa with partners such as the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) and others. The first example of this type of credit enhancement company was InfraCredit in Nigeria which has had demonstrated success, and now Dhamana in East Africa. The investment in Dhamana aligns with the Bank’s priority to mobilise financing through innovative vehicles from African institutional funds including pension funds, sovereign wealth funds and insurance companies for infrastructure development in Africa.

    On his part, Dr. Hosea Kili, OGW – CPF Group Managing Director/CEO – said:

    We are proud to be part of this transformative initiative through Dhamana Guarantee Company. We believe in the power of innovative financial solutions to drive sustainable growth. By leveraging local currency guarantees, Dhamana will unlock critical capital for critical infrastructure projects, advancing economic development. This partnership aligns with our commitment to investing in initiatives that improve the lives of people’s lives and our economy while contributing to a more sustainable future.

    Joost Zuidberg, CEO of Cardano Development concluded:

    Dhamana’s true strength lies in its capacity to attract significant investments from East Africa’s institutional capital, laying a strong foundation for future scaling up according to its sizeable potential and thus meaningfully contribute to sustained economic growth in the region. Part of our core work is to incubate guarantee solutions for emerging and frontier markets, and we are thrilled to formalise this partnership today, as we collectively provide Dhamana with the crucial support and capital needed to fulfil this vital objective.

    NOTES FOR EDITORS

    The UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership

    The UK-Kenya strategic partnership joint statement can be found here.

    About Dhamana

    Dhamana Guarantee Company (Dhamana): Dhamana is working to catalyse the development of domestic capital markets in East Africa. It does this by connecting significant under-utilised sources of domestic institutional capital with the real economy, such as new green infrastructure, and providers of credit to  businesses. This increases access and the affordability of local capital, providing new low-risk opportunities for local investors. Dhamana will also serve to provide a portfolio of businesses with access to the local currency capital needed to deliver bankable projects, meeting the high demand for new affordable housing, transportation, water, and energy infrastructure, and promoting long term economic development. http://www.dhamana.com

    About PIDG

    The Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) is an innovative infrastructure project developer and investor which mobilises private investment in sustainable and inclusive infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa and south and south-east Asia. PIDG investments promote socio-economic development within a just transition to net zero emissions, combat poverty and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). PIDG delivers its ambition in line with its values of pioneering, partnership, safety, inclusivity, and urgency. PIDG offers Technical Assistance for upstream, early-stage activities and concessional capital; its project development arm – which includes InfraCo Africa and InfraCo Asia – invests in early-stage project development and project and corporate equity. PIDG credit solutions include EAIF (the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund), one of the first and more successful blended debt funds in low-income markets; GuarantCo, its guarantee arm that provides credit enhancement and local currency solutions to de-risk projects; and a growing portfolio of local credit enhancement facilities, which unlocks domestic institutional capital for infrastructure financing. Since 2002, PIDG has supported 233 infrastructure projects to financial close, which provided an estimated 228 million people with access to new or improved infrastructure. PIDG is funded by the governments of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia, Sweden, Global Affairs Canada, Germany, and the IFC. http://www.pidg.org

    About the African Development Bank (AfDB)

    The African Development Bank (AfDB) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. http://www.afdb.org

    About the CPF Group

    The CPF Group offers a comprehensive range of services through its various subsidiaries including  CPF Financial Services which administers both private and public pension funds; notably – the Public Service Superannuation Scheme (PSSS); The Local Authorities Pensions Trust (LAPTRUST); the Taifa Pension Fund; the County Pension Fund and CPF Individual Pension Plan. The funds under our administration have a total membership of just over 500,000 members.

    Other subsidiaries include Laser Infrastructure & Technology Solutions (LITES); Laser Property Services; Rukisha Advances payment platform; CPF Asset Managers; CPF Capital & Advisory; and Laser Insurance Brokers (LIB).  The Group offers a wide range of services in ICT & renewable energy solutions, Property Services, Insurance Brokerage, Smart Money platform, fund management, Transaction Advisory, Trust fund services, training & consultancy, and Corporate Trustee Services. Derived from uncompromised commitment to fulfilling lives, the CPF Group prioritises new models and approaches in engineering turnkey solutions for clients across the region. http://www.cpfgroup.or.ke

    About Cardano Development

    Cardano Development (CD), established in 2007, incubates new companies, and creates and manages fund managers. Through careful risk-management analysis in data poor settings, CD identifies scalable solutions that can help to make frontier financial markets more inclusive, investible, and sustainable to unlock lasting economic value. CD creates scalable solutions for currency, credit, and liquidity risks in these markets. With over USD 6 billion assets and USD 3.1 billion capital under management, CD supports scale-up ventures (TCX, GuarantCo, Frontclear, BIX Capital, ILX Fund, AGRI3 Fund), and a number of new start-ups, with ongoing management support services and corporate governance oversight. http://www.cardanodevelopment.com.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 30 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Photographers encouraged to enter Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Photographers have been encouraged to submit entries to the Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition, which is aimed at communicating matters on water action.

    “The competition is aimed at elevating inspiring stories on citizen science for water by touching upon people’s emotional connection to water and inspiring them to take positive action,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said on Saturday.

    Citizen science is the practice of public participation and collaboration in scientific endeavours to increase scientific knowledge. 

    The South African National Committee (SANC) for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP), in collaboration with the DWS, launched the Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition on Friday in Pretoria. 

    SANC members include DWS, the Water Research Commission (WRC), Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), University of South Africa (UNISA), and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), amongst others.

    “The competition’s objectives are to raise awareness on the intertwined relationship between water and the various dimensions of culture, value, education and the natural sciences in the past and present; activate youth involvement in communicating matters of water action in creative ways; contribute to joint actions in the water action agenda, and to demonstrate how citizens, communities and education could effectively support the sustainable use and management of water,” the department said.

    Participants should explore five themes which are: Water and Citizen Science; Water and Partnerships; Water and Education; Water and Culture, as well as Water and Communities. 

    The competition is now officially opened. Submissions can be sent via a link: https://www.dws.gov.za/Projects/UNESCO/cspi.aspx

    Applicants are urged to familiarise themselves with the submission rules when entering the competition. Anyone with inquiries or struggling with submission may direct their queries to ihp50photostory@dws.gov.za.

    The competition is free to enter, and participants must be 18 years or older. The deadline for submission is 28 February 2025, 23:00 South African Time. 

    The winners will be officially announced in March 2025 and receive an award from the department and South African National Committee for IHP, and recognition and visibility through IHP channels and initiatives both locally and internationally. 

    The top 15 winning pieces will be exhibited in June 2025 during the launch of the Photo Story Book. –SANews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South African woman arrested for drug trafficking at OR Tambo

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, September 30, 2024

    A 21-year-old South African woman has been arrested for drug trafficking at the OR Tambo International (ORTIA) Airport.

    This is the 11th drug mule to be arrested at the airport in a period of two months.

    “The drug mule was profiled and intercepted as she was arriving on a flight from São Paulo, Brazil, on Sunday morning, just before 9am. She was taken to a local hospital where an X-ray confirmed that she had foreign objects in her stomach,” said the police in a statement.

    The woman has already released a number of bullets from her body and is in police custody where they are closely monitoring the release of further drug bullets. The process is still unfolding, said SAPS.

    National Commissioner of the Police, General Fannie Masemola, commended the vigilance of members of SARS and SAPS at the airport.

    “Our men and women in blue working closely with SARS customs and various stakeholders continue to assert the authority of the state at all our ports of entry.

    “We appreciate the hard work and dedication of our members and urge them to do more to squeeze the space for criminals. Drug traffickers are feeling the heat and there is nowhere to hide,” said Masemola.

    Every week in the last month, SAPS and SARS customs, immigration and the Border Management Authority (BMA) have been intercepting drug traffickers at OR Tambo International Airport.

    On Sunday, 22 September 2024, a 30-year-old Namibian drug mule was arrested after arriving from São Paulo. 

    She too was taken for medical examination and released more than 60 drug bullets. She has already appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on a charge of dealing in drugs.

    On Friday, 13 September 2024, a Nigerian drug mule was arrested after he was found in possession of cocaine that was concealed in aircraft head phones. He had just landed from São Paulo. 

    He has already appeared before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on a charge of dealing in drugs. – SAnews.gov.za

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    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Court sentences two former rangers for rhino poaching

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Sunday, September 29, 2024

    Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Narend Singh has welcomed the 20-year imprisonment sentence handed down by the Skukuza Regional Court to two former Kruger National Park (KNP) rangers for their involvement in rhino poaching. 

    “We commend the collaborative efforts of our law enforcement agencies and the National Prosecuting Authority for the arrest, investigations, and successful conviction of the two former rangers to an effective 20-year jail term each. 

    “Poachers and those funding wildlife crimes will face the full might of the law,” the Deputy Minister said in a statement.

    The two former Kruger National Park field rangers, Lucky Mkanzi and Joe Sihlangu, were attached to the Crocodile Bridge Section of the KNP and were arrested in January 2019 in an intelligence-driven operation.

    Information was received that both the accused were involved in the transportation of poaching suspects in the Godleni area of the section where two carcasses of white rhino were discovered.

    Analysis of their vehicle tracking device placed them at the vicinity of the crime scene. The two were taken into custody and confessed to taking part in the crime. An amount of R41 000 was recovered from Joe Shilhangu’s room and it was determined that the money was payment for his participations in the commission of the crime.

    The trial of the two commenced in the Skukuza Regional court on 04 September 2024 where the state presented compelling evidence, which led to the court finding them guilty on three counts:
    •  Conspiracy to commit a crime resulting in a 4-year sentence.
    •  Hunting of a rhinoceros in a national park resulting in 10 years imprisonment.
    •  Hunting and killing of rhinoceros in a national park resulting in 10 years imprisonment.

    The court ordered that the sentences in count 1 and 2 will run concurrently with that of count 3 resulting in an effective jail term of 20 years for each accused.  

    They were sentenced on Friday. 

    Members of the public can report any suspicious activities around wildlife to its environmental crime hotline which is 0800 205 005 or the SAPS number 10111. – SAnews.gov.za

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    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Communities urged to safeguard water infrastructure

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Water and Sanitation Minister, David Mahlobo, has called on residents across the country to safeguard water infrastructure in areas where they reside as a measure to assist government to ensure water security through the implementation of water projects. 

    Mahlobo made these remarks at a community engagement session on Friday in Alice in the Eastern Cape, where he joined the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, to hand over the R130 million Alice Water Treatment and the University of Fort Hare’s Wastewater Treatment Works Expansion Projects.

    The University of Fort Hare initiated the upgrade of the Alice Water Treatment Works (WTWs) and the flow rate increase from an average of 6.5 megalitres per day to 12 megalitres day. This resulted in the total water storage capacity increasing from 11.28 megalitres to 17.48 megalitres.  

    “The initiative was sparked by the treatment and storage capacity of the Wastewater Treatment Works, which far exceeded the demand, which had significant negative impact on both the Alice town and the university,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said.

    The university then approached the Amathole District Municipality, as the Water Services Authority, to solicit its plans to address the unreliable supply in the area, and to also meet its additional requirement as additional student residential accommodation was needed.

    The Amathole District Municipality advised the university that the upgrade of the Alice Water Treatment Works was set to start in the 2024/25 budget cycle due to over commitments in its Infrastructure Capital Programmes.

    This then prompted the university to approach the Department of Higher Education and Training to bridge the upgrades of both the Alice Water Treatment Works and the Wastewater Treatment Works in order to unlock further development of student accommodation.

    The request was endorsed by former Minister Blade Nzimande, and it culminated into the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Fort Hare University and Amathole District Municipality.

    The MoU set the wheels in motion, which resulted in the two projects effectively implemented and handed over by the current Minister of Higher Education and Training, and Deputy Minister Mahlobo. 

    Mahlobo has endorsed the university’s initiative and praised the swift response by the Department of Higher Education and Training. 

    “As the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, we fully encourage and support such initiatives, as undertaken by the university and our sister department. Water is a source of life and all of us should work together to ensure that we safeguard this precious resource. Any initiative that strives to ensure water security will always get the support of the Ministry of Water and Sanitation.

    “While we welcome collaborative work, we also call on community members to play their significant role in ensuring that they safeguard water infrastructure. It cannot be correct that the vandalism of water infrastructure still happens in communities,” Mahlobo said.

    The two projects are aimed at addressing water treatment and wastewater management at the university, and are collaborative initiatives of the University of Fort Hare, Amathole District Municipality and Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. –SANews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: DRC President Felix Tshisekedi must be held accountable for human rights violations

    Source: Amnesty International –

    By Jean Mobert Senga, Amnesty International’s DRC researcher

    Speaking at the UN General Assembly on 25 September 2024, President Tshisekedi ignored the continuing deterioration of human rights under his own government. The international community must push him to change course.

    At the start of his first term in 2019, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Felix Tshisekedi promised to protect human rights — but his government appears to have embarked on a crusade against his own pledges.

    The DRC authorities’ response to the armed conflict and inter-communal violence that has ravaged the country for decades has failed to improve the security situation. In some cases, it has made it worse.

    While the international community must address serious human rights abuses by armed groups in eastern DRC, including Rwanda and other countries’ alleged support to some armed groups, it must also increase pressure on President Tshisekedi’s government to uphold human rights, tackle impunity, and address deep-rooted socioeconomic injustices.

    The DRC is enduring one of the most protracted humanitarian crises in the world. From east to west and from north to south, the civilian population faces daily threats of violence from a myriad of armed groups. Congolese soldiers and affiliated militia groups also continue to target civilians and commit horrendous crimes, often with impunity.

    A profound failure

    Internally displaced persons (IDPs), particularly women and girls, disproportionately bear the brunt of this conflict. IDP camps are rife with sexual violence, exacerbated by poor security conditions and insufficient humanitarian aid. The continued failure of the Tshisekedi administration to protect populations made vulnerable by these living conditions is inacceptable.

    The international community must hold the DRC government accountable not only for its failure to prevent and punish sexual violence and attacks against civilians, but also for its inaction in addressing the humanitarian catastrophe. Both the Congolese government and the international community must increase funding for the chronically underfunded humanitarian response to meet the urgent needs of affected populations, including shelter, food, healthcare and education.

    The international community must hold the DRC government accountable not only for its failure to prevent and punish sexual violence and attacks against civilians, but also for its inaction in addressing the humanitarian catastrophe.

    Jean Mobert Senga, DRC Researcher, Amnesty International

    A key contributing factor to the deteriorating human rights situation in the eastern DRC is the ongoing “State of Siege” imposed in North Kivu and Ituri since May 2021. This exceptional measure, which is akin to a state of emergency, has effectively militarized everyday life, concentrating all powers in the hands of military and police officials, including powers which should be those of civilian authorities. Tshisekedi’s government must urgently end the “State of Siege” and work towards a human rights-centred approach to restoring security.

    Meanwhile, a crackdown on dissent has swept the nation under the pretext of defending the country against enemies. Journalists, civil society activists, and political opponents have faced threats, arbitrary detention, and judicial harassment. By weaponizing the judiciary, the Tshisekedi administration has betrayed the hopes and aspirations of those who resisted the repression of their rights under the Kabila regime.

    Equally alarming is the government’s decision in March this year to reinstate the death penalty after more than two decades of hiatus. Military courts have since handed down more than a hundred death penalty sentences, heightening the risk of politically motivated executions.

    The recent tragedy at Makala prison in Kinshasa, where over 120 people died, hundreds were injured, and more than 200 women and girls were subjected to sexual violence, including gang rape, underscores the dire state of prison conditions in the DRC. President Tshisekedi must ensure that the courts conduct a transparent and prompt investigation and prosecute all responsible, including political and security officials who may have failed to prevent these horrific events. The international community must push for and assist in urgent criminal and penitentiary reforms to ensure such tragedies are never repeated.

    Despite repeated calls for justice, the government has so far largely failed to bring both Congolese and foreign perpetrators of crimes under international law to justice. Powerful actors continue to operate with impunity, deepening the cycle of violence. Efforts towards other forms of justice, including compensations and reparations, remain dismally inadequate. Victims and survivors are frustrated by the lack of transparency and the slow pace of these efforts, which often feel more symbolic than substantive.

    Despite repeated calls for justice, the government has so far largely failed to bring both Congolese and foreign perpetrators of crimes under international law to justice. Powerful actors continue to operate with impunity, deepening the cycle of violence.

    Jean Mobert

    It is not only armed conflict that poses an existential threat to thousands of people in the country. The DRC is a critical supplier of copper and cobalt, minerals that are essential to the global transition to renewable energy. However, as highlighted in Amnesty International’s 2023 report “Business as Usual?”, increased investments in the industrial mining sector have led to human rights abuses, including mass forced evictions and environmental pollution, leaving frontline communities in limbo. Toxic pollution and dangerous working conditions continue to plague artisanal miners, particularly in the cobalt-rich southern provinces.

    The international community cannot afford to ignore the grave human rights situation in the DRC any longer. President Tshisekedi’s allies — especially the United States, South Africa, Angola, Belgium, and France — must use their influence to demand accountability for human rights violations.

    This oped first ran in South Africa’s Daily Maverick

    MIL OSI NGO –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/KENYA – Resignation and succession of bishop of Isiolo

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 28 September 2024

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the diocese of Isiolo, Kenya, presented by Bishop Anthony Ireri Mukobo, I.M.C. He is succeeded by Bishop Peter Munguti Makau, I.M.C., until now coadjutor bishop of the same diocese. (Agenzia Fides, 28/9/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 21 startups transforming education with AI

    Source: Google

    Picture a world where students, regardless of their background, can learn in a personalized way. Imagine teachers with tools that anticipate their needs, freeing them to focus on what they do best: inspiring and guiding their class. This isn’t a distant dream, but a reality being shaped by entrepreneurs in the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Education program.

    Selected from a pool of more than 600 applicants from across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, the 21 participating startups are all using AI to create more inclusive, engaging and effective educational pathways. From building intelligent tutors that adapt to each student’s pace, to platforms that make education accessible even in remote areas, we can’t wait to see the impact they’ll have on learners around the world.

    Each founder and their team will receive three months of mentorship by Google experts, resources to help grow their technology, business and global reach, and a collaborative community of fellow founders to support one another. Learn more about the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Education cohort:

    • Angaza Elimu (Kenya): An eLearning platform that creates a more personalized and engaging experience, fostering stronger connections between learners and teachers.
    • BLISKO (Poland): An AI-powered platform that personalizes learning for children ages 0-6, that focuses on building strong relationships and creating personalized learning plans that fit each child’s unique needs, abilities and interests
    • Complori (Germany): A hybrid learning platform that equips children, ages 7-16, with hard skills such as technological understanding and programming, and soft skills through live and online group lessons.
    • Correcto (Spain): An AI-powered platform that enhances Spanish writing skills, offering tools tailored for Spanish-speaking users.
    • Digify Africa (South Africa): A high-tech learning platform, delivered via a low-tech interface, that improves access to education for low-income learners.
    • eKidz (Germany): An app that makes acquiring literacy and a new language easy and accessible for every child. Utilizing a purpose-built AI voice recognition students with precise diagnostics and support.
    • EvidenceB (France): An AI tutoring platform that works for any subject, available as a subscription service. Teachers get helpful data insights to guide their instruction.
    • ExamSolutions (UK): An AI-powered tutoring platform combining visual, auditory and textual content tailored for learning and exam preparation for math at GCSE & A-level.
    • Hawkings Education (Spain): An AI online learning system, making the experience more personalized for students and giving teachers better tools.
    • Jotit (Israel): A first of its kind, turning any standard Chromebook or tablet into an all-in-one learning space, creating a focused, distraction-free environment which keeps handwriting at its core.
    • LearnWise AI (Netherlands): A platform empowering universities and colleges worldwide to revolutionize student support through custom AI assistants.
    • MOONHUB (UK): A VR training platform that allows people to train like they were on the job from anywhere, any time to assess how people react to their observed virtual worlds.
    • Optima (UAE): An AI-powered education platform and course creation engine with a focus on data and AI engineering skills. Optima’s approach combines live interactive sessions, self-paced learning and AI-assisted tutoring.
    • OpenCyberAI (United Kingdom): An educational platform dedicated to cybersecurity, offering virtual simulations through interactive training, powered by an AI personalizing your learning path.
    • Pandatron (Finland): A platform supports talent development and helps employees adapt to digital and cultural changes by using AI-powered coaching conversations to identify underlying issues within the organization.
    • SignLab (Norway): An AI sign language digital platform that makes learning more accessible, effective, and affordable.
    • Story Spark (United Kingdom): An AI-powered story generator and reading platform for children combining innovative literacy education with engaging and personalized content.
    • ubiMaster (Germany): A live, personal online tutor platform designed to make learning with experts easy and widely available.
    • Utiva Education (Nigeria): A tech platform that helps people in Africa learn skills needed for global jobs, enabling companies to hire talent across different regions and increasing employment in the region.
    • Wilco (Israel): A platform helping both businesses and software vendors easily provide high-end training and education materials for their employees, candidates or users.
    • Wiloki (France): An online tutoring platform for children ages 7-14, using AI-powered tools to personalize the learning path according to each child’s unique educational profile and motivational triggers.

    As we continue to explore the possibilities of AI in education, one thing is certain: The path towards more personalized, effective and inspiring learning experiences has just begun.

    Learn more about our selected startups at startup.google.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Translation: AFRICA/ANGOLA – Synod, the Bishop of Leena: “The problems of the West are not ours”

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    by Fabio BerettaLeena (Agenzia Fides) – Low education, lack of services, leprosy, the spread of aggressive sects: these are some of the problems that the Catholic community has to face daily in Angola, where pastoral emergencies “are often different from what is discussed during the Synod”. This is underlined in an interview with Agenzia Fides by Martín Lasarte Topolansky, Bishop of the Diocese of Leena. “What the Pope said is true, that when we think of the Church we are ‘Western’. Of course, this is the history of the Church, two thousand years of beauty and richness of Christianity cannot be erased. But the Holy Spirit – explains the Angolan bishop – has blown everywhere. However, it is noted that the Church is Eurocentric on many occasions, like this Synod. Sometimes they want to pass off the problems that the Church has in the West as if those were precisely the great problems of the universal Church. Instead, we should say: calm down, you have these problems, and it’s okay to face them, we give you courage. However, we have many other critical issues, such as the first evangelization, or the formation of the laity, interreligious dialogue or the enormous growth of sects of any kind”. “In my Diocese”, the Bishop continues, “leprosy still exists. It is true that in Europe there is advancing secularization, but in Africa there are hundreds of seminarians who need to be supported in their training. We are a Church in development. The Catholic Church is beautiful with its diversity, it has riches and critical issues in every latitude that are too often not understood”. And if we talk about critical issues, in Angola one problem is the increase in Islamic extremists. “Objectively, the problem exists”, the Bishop recognizes. In some cases, Christian girls marry Muslim boys, their children are sent to study in countries with a Muslim majority and when they return they have become Muslims linked to extremist groups. It almost seems like a ‘vocational pastoral care’ … “Obviously the situation changes depending on where you are: “Dialogue exists, but not always and not everywhere. In the East there are situations that are the exact opposite of the West, so dialogue becomes more difficult in some areas. And when poverty and lack of horizons are put together, a dangerous mixture is created.” And the same happens with neo-Pentecostal sects: “These are completely disconnected groups that do not even enter into dialogue with Protestant Churches” explains the Bishop of Leena. And the problem of witchcraft persists: “There are places where magic and witchcraft are the primary cause of violence and murder. Every day we have to deal with a society where there are so many situations of hardship. Everyone is free to believe what they want, maximum respect for ancestral beliefs, but we must respect first and foremost the dignity of each person”. In this, the industrious presence of many missionaries helps: “Having missionaries from different peoples and nations is a wealth. One could fall into the temptation to say: ‘We are mature, we do not need anyone’. It is true, I am the only non-Angolan bishop, the others are all local, but we all recognize – underlines Topolansky – that their presence is a sign of the times. In my diocese, 123 thousand square kilometers, among the largest in sub-Saharan Africa, where 8 languages are spoken, they are a resource”. “Today then – concludes the Bishop of Leena – we have Angolans who have left as missionaries in Papua New Guinea and in the Amazon. Countries that previously received missionaries have now become countries from which missionaries depart. The Gospel is always the same, the styles of evangelization change, but the Church by its nature is missionary and will always continue to be so”. (Agenzia Fides 30/9/2024)Share:

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA condemns ‘targeted’ assassinations, recent bombing of Lebanon

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The South African government has expressed its “profound concern” regarding the recent escalation of extrajudicial killings in the Middle East, most notably the tragic assassination of Hassan Nasrallah and other leaders in Lebanon. 

    This follows a series of widespread and indiscriminate attacks on communication and other devices used by civilians, particularly in Lebanon.

    According to reports, Hezbollah’s leader Nasrallah was killed Friday in a strike on the group’s underground headquarters, where 20 Hezbollah members were also present.

    Hezbollah is a Lebanese militant group, described as “one of the most powerful paramilitary groups in the Middle East”.

    According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, these attacks have since resulted in numerous fatalities, including those from vulnerable groups, and left hundreds in critical condition and thousands injured. 

    “The scale of injuries caused by these indiscriminate explosions is deeply troubling and warrants strong condemnation from the international community. Such attacks on civilians constitute a grave violation of international human rights and humanitarian law,” the statement read. 

    South Africa has since extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wished the injured a swift and full recovery. 

    “We stand in solidarity with the government of Lebanon during this challenging time and express our support in the aftermath of these ongoing attacks.

    “These actions exacerbate an already tense situation in the Middle East and appear to be aimed at undermining regional international peace efforts.” 

    The government has since called on the perpetrators of these premeditated crimes to be held accountable through an international, transparent investigation.

    “South Africa unequivocally condemns these targeted assassinations and the recent bombing campaign against Lebanon, which has resulted in the tragic loss of more than 720 lives since the conflict escalated on Monday [last week].”

    Citing the United Nations (UN), the department said the number of displaced individuals from southern Lebanon has more than doubled, with over 211 000 people now displaced. 

    Additionally, at least 20 primary healthcare centres have been forced to shut down in the hardest-hit areas, as reported by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

    “South Africa urgently calls for an immediate ceasefire and adherence to international law to prevent a major regional military conflagration, which would have devastating consequences for all countries involved.” – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Renewable energy programme to be accelerated

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa is determined to be “ultra aggressive” in onboarding renewable energy sources.

    This is according to Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.

    The Minister was speaking on Monday during the Ministerial Renewable Energy Seminar held in Midrand, under the theme: “Advancing Renewable Energy: A Comprehensive Review of the IPP Procurement Process”.

    Ramokgopa told the gathering that it is in the “collective interest” to accelerate the renewable energy programme.

    “We must be ultra aggressive in the onboarding of renewables. It must be on steroids. But we can only achieve that if we resolve the issues that you are going to share with us today. I think the future is renewables. 

    “We must resolve the issues of permitting and licensing, and the speed because capital has got choices. It’s not like capital is waiting and waiting for South Africa to resolve its problems. It is in our interest to ensure that we are greedy in how we want to consume this capital, and that greed will be displayed in the manner and the enthusiasm with which we are resolving the major impediments in this instance.

    “We want to capture all these opportunities… for the greater good of the region,” Ramokgopa said.

    WATCH | Renewable Energy Seminar

     

    In order to build a strong renewable energy sector, “we must build confidence in the system”, the Minister stressed.

    “We are going to be a bit more aggressive in onboarding renewables but I think that statement is hollow if we are not able to address the attendant challenges, the inherent weaknesses in the system. 

    “We must build confidence in the system going into the future, firstly, by illustrating our ability to resolve the challenges that have afflicted the previous bid windows. 

    “[Being aggressive means] going out to procure the megawatts that are of a scale and proportion that we have not done before. But if we have not resolved the inherent challenges, that statement will be put to waste because we will not be able to achieve that which we desire.

    “So it’s important that we have that conversation and I urge you [stakeholders] to be very candid,” he said.

    The Minister said his department wants to gather as much information as possible to improve on South Africa’s Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (IPPPP).

    “We are here to listen on how best we can improve. Once we have listened… we will action. We really want industry to thrive for us to make South Africa the preferred destination for this capital [and] for us to run the most ambitious and successful of all renewable programmes from a public procurement point of view.

    “[We want] the best one, not just on the continent, not just in the Global South but something that is of envy across the globe,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Phase 2 of Government and Business partnership to be launched

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, September 30, 2024

    President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to launch Phase 2 of the Business and Government partnership on Tuesday.

    The launch will be held at the Industrial Development Corporation in Johannesburg.

    READ | Deepening government, business partnership critical for SA

    “The partnership was established over a year ago with the aim of securing progress in energy, transport and logistics, and the combating of crime and corruption as enablers of economic growth and the creation of jobs.

    “The partnership has made substantial progress thus far, particularly in the significant reduction in load shedding. 

    “President Cyril Ramaphosa and senior government and business leaders will provide feedback on progress to date, and ambitions for the year ahead,” the Presidency said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

    Share this post:

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Singapore and Ghana Launch First Call for Project Applications under Implementation Agreement on Carbon Credits Cooperation

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    Singapore, 30 September 2024 — Singapore and Ghana have set out the processes for authorising carbon credit projects under their Implementation Agreement on carbon  credits cooperation, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Applications may be submitted through Singapore’s Carbon Markets Cooperation website, at http://www.carbonmarkets-cooperation.gov.sg.

    2               The carbon credit projects authorised under the Implementation Agreement will channel financing towards emissions reduction or removal projects in Ghana. These projects can promote sustainable development and generate benefits for local communities, including job creation, clean water access, improvements to energy security, and reducing environmental pollution (See Annex A for potential project types).

    3               Authorised projects can generate carbon credits aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Under Singapore’s International Carbon Credit (ICC) Framework, these credits may be eligible for use by Singapore-based carbon tax-liable companies to offset up to 5% of their taxable emissions.

    4               From 30 September 2024, interested parties may submit applications for their carbon credit projects in Ghana to be authorised. Applications submitted will be reviewed by Singapore and Ghana governments on a rolling basis as they are received.

    Application and Authorisation Process

    5               The application and authorisation process comprises four stages, each corresponding to a different stage of implementation for the carbon credit project (See Annex B). The first three stages require applicants to submit details on the design and implementation plan for the carbon credit project in the lead-up to project authorisation. The final stage is for corresponding adjustments to be applied to the carbon credits generated from the authorised project, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

    6               Singapore and Ghana will assess applications against each country’s respective requirements. For Singapore, these projects must meet Singapore’s Eligibility Criteria for International Carbon Credits. The Eligibility Criteria, and the list of eligible carbon crediting programmes and methodologies under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement, are at Annex C, and on the Carbon Markets Cooperation website. The list will be reviewed regularly to maintain relevance and uphold environmental integrity.

    Annex A

    Potential Carbon Credit Project Types for Applications

    Project Type Description
    Clean Water Supply Rural communities are provided with water purification technologies (e.g. UV-based disinfection systems). This empowers communities with an alternate source of clean and safe drinking water without relying on the conventional method of using firewood to boil water. This reduces carbon emissions from burning firewood and associated deforestation activities, and carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced.
     
    Local communities can also benefit from improved water safety and security.
    Efficient and Clean Cookstoves In rural areas where households use firewood for their cooking and heating needs, the switch to efficient and clean cookstoves (e.g. cookstoves that use renewable fuel like biogas or solar energy) enables households to meet their cooking and heating needs more efficiently and cleanly. This reduces the burning of firewood and resulting carbon emissions from deforestation. Carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced.
     
    Co-benefits are also delivered to local communities, including cleaner air quality through the reduction of firewood burning.
    Green Mobility As Electric Vehicles (EVs) replace fossil fuel-powered vehicles for transportation needs, there are emissions reductions as EVs are more efficient and potentially powered by green energy. Carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced.
     
    There are also sustainable development benefits for local communities. Skilled jobs are created for the maintenance of EV infrastructure, and improves air quality from reduced reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

    Annex B

    Flowchart of Application and Authorisation Process

    Joint Committee The Joint Committee is a coordination body that oversees the administration of the Implementation Agreement. The Joint Committee under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement is co-chaired by the Director-General of Climate Change at the National Climate Change Secretariat of Singapore, and the Director of Environment, Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation of Ghana.
    Stage A: Project Application Applicants are to submit a concept note on the intended project, indicating the programme and methodology that the project will be developed under, and broadly how the project will be implemented to uphold environmental integrity (e.g. explanations on how the project will demonstrate additionality).
    Stage B: Project Design As the project concept is further developed, applicants are to submit a project design document (PDD) on the intended project. The PDD should contain the detailed implementation plan (e.g. how the baseline emissions will be determined, how the project will address permanence and leakage concerns).
    Stage C: Project Authorisation Under this stage, applicants are to submit a validation report from a third-party auditor determining that the project design meets all the rules and requirements of the intended methodology and carbon crediting programme. After receiving Letters of Authorisation from both Singapore and Ghana, the project should proceed to be registered under the intended carbon crediting programme, and proceed to implementation.
    Stage D: Corresponding Adjustment Application As the authorised project is implemented and the emission reductions and removals have been verified by a third-party auditor, the carbon crediting programme will issue carbon credits to the project. Applicants are to submit a Proof of Issuance from the carbon crediting programme accompanied with the verification report from the third-party auditor, to be considered for corresponding adjustments to be applied to the issued carbon credits, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

     

    Annex C

    Singapore’s Eligibility Criteria and the Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

    Eligibility Criteria

     1               The Eligibility Criteria requires ICCs to represent emissions reductions or removals that occur within the timeframe specified under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, and meet seven principles to demonstrate environmental integrity (see Table C-1 below).

     Table C-1: Eligibility Criteria for ICCs

    Principle Definition
    To comply with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, the certified emissions reductions or removals must have occurred between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2030.
    Not double-counted The certified emissions reductions or removals must not be counted more than once in contravention of the Paris Agreement.
    Additional The certified emissions reductions or removals must exceed any emissions reduction or removals required by any law or regulatory requirement of the host country, and that would otherwise have occurred in a conservative, business-as-usual scenario.
    Real The certified emissions reductions or removals must have been quantified based on a realistic, defensible, and conservative estimate of the amount of emissions that would have occurred in a business-as-usual scenario, assuming the project or programme that generated the certified emission reductions or removals had not been carried out.
    Quantified and verified The certified emissions reductions or removals must have been calculated in a manner that is conservative and transparent, and must have been measured and verified by an accredited and independent third-party verification entity before the ICC was issued.
    Permanent The certified emissions reductions or removals must not be reversible, or if there is a risk that the certified emissions reductions or removals may be reversible, there must be measures in place to monitor, mitigate and compensate any material reversal of the certified emissions reductions or removals.
    No net harm The project or programme that generated the certified emissions reductions or removals must not violate any applicable laws, regulatory requirements, or international obligations of the host country.
    No leakage The project or programme that generated the certified emissions reductions or removals must not result in a material increase in emissions elsewhere, or if there is a risk of a material increase in emissions elsewhere, there must be measures in place to monitor, mitigate and compensate any such material increase in emissions.

    Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

     2               The Eligibility List of carbon crediting programmes and methodologies in Table C-2 adhere to the Eligibility Criteria and meet the requirements of both Singapore and Ghana. The carbon crediting programmes and methodologies that are eligible may be different for each host country, as host countries also have their own criteria.

     Table C-2: Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement 

    Carbon Crediting Programmes  Methodologies 
    Gold Standard for the Global Goals (GS4GG)  All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those under the “Land Use and Forestry & Agriculture” category of GS4GG 
    Verified Carbon Standard (VCS)  All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those that are under the “Sectoral Scope 14” category of VCS, with these allowable exceptions: 
    ·     Scenario 2a and 3 of VCS Jurisdictional and Nested REDD+ (JNR) framework  
    ·     VM0012 
    ·     VM0017 
    ·     VM0021 
    ·     VM0022 
    ·     VM0024 
    ·     VM0026 (and VMD0040) 
    ·     VM0032 
    ·     VM0033  
    ·     VM0036  
    ·     VM0041 
    ·     VM0042 
     
    Where any VCS methodology is used, the project participant will be required to demonstrate the Sustainable Development contributions or co-benefits of the relevant mitigation activity by submitting to the Joint Committee its verification report under the Climate, Community and Biodiversity Standards (CCB Standards), the Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SD VISta) or another standard recognised by VCS for such purpose. 

    Annex D

    Information on the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

     1               Singapore and Ghana signed an Implementation Agreement on carbon credits cooperation under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on 27 May 2024. Since the signing, Singapore has been working with Ghana to operationalise the Implementation Agreement.

     2               As an additional contribution to mitigation of global emissions, Singapore has committed to having 2% of the correspondingly adjusted carbon credits authorised under this Implementation Agreement cancelled at first issuance. These carbon credits cannot be sold, traded, or counted towards any country’s emission targets, and will instead contribute towards a net reduction in global emissions.

     3               Singapore has committed to channelling the value from 5% of the correspondingly adjusted carbon credits authorised under this Implementation Agreement towards adaptation measures such as heat resilience measures and coastal protection in Ghana.

     4               This is the second Implementation Agreement for Singapore, after the first with Papua New Guinea which was signed in December 2023. Singapore signed MOUs / Letters of Intent on carbon credits collaboration with countries such as Bhutan, Cambodia, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Fiji, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Mongolia, Morocco, Peru, the Philippines, Vietnam, Rwanda, Senegal, and Sri Lanka, with the aim of inking similar Implementation Agreements.

     5               Effective international cooperation, such as through carbon markets, is an important part of Singapore’s efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, given Singapore’s national circumstances as an alternative-energy disadvantaged country with limited domestic mitigation potential.

     

     

     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 23, 2025
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