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Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada–France Declaration on a Stronger Defence and Security Partnership

    Source: Government of Canada News

    On September 26, 2024, in Ottawa, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, called on our countries to work together towards a stronger defence and security partnership.

    September 26, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    On September 26, 2024, in Ottawa, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, called on our countries to work together towards a stronger defence and security partnership.

    Canada and France have cultivated a strong defence relationship, founded upon shared history, interests, a common language and universal values.

    During the 20th century, Canada and France developed a close defence relationship. During both World Wars, Canadian soldiers and French soldiers fought side by side and this year, our countries celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings. Our defence relationship was solidified in 1949 with the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), of which our two countries are founding members, as well as through our joint participation in various United Nations peacekeeping operations, NATO-led operations, and the Global Coalition Against Daesh.

    We share common security interests in a world facing serious international tensions and, more broadly, one marked by unilateral assertions of power. Given this, our respective officials, both political and military, have met with one another more regularly in 2024, to enhance our conversations on defence and security, and ultimately build a more ambitious strategic partnership. We are convinced that stronger cooperation between our two countries will facilitate better defence of the rules-based international order founded on respect for state sovereignty, and our democratic principles. Together, we are committed to doing our part to uphold the principles of the Charter of the United Nations; to help manage international crises and conflicts, including in the cyber domain; and to ensure the collective security and defence of NATO members.

    We will therefore expand our defence and security cooperation to support Ukraine, contribute to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, reinforce our collaboration on crisis management and modernization of our armed forces, and fight against foreign interference and information manipulation.

    Support Ukraine

    Canada and France will support Ukraine for as long as it takes to thwart Russia’s war of aggression, which is a flagrant violation of international law, including the Charter of the United Nations. Our support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders is unwavering. In line with the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine of July 2023, Canada and France respectively signed bilateral agreements with Ukraine to confirm our commitment to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend itself, foster resilience in the country, and deter future aggression from Russia in the long-term.

    As part of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG), also known as the Ramstein group, we will strengthen our cooperation in the area of military equipment support to Ukraine and training.

    Canada and France have trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers through Operation UNIFIER (Canada) and the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (France). Our armed forces have cooperated on training Ukrainian fighter pilots. Our armed forces will continue to deepen their strategic cooperation in the field of cyber defence in support of Ukraine. We are determined to work with Ukraine and our partners to support Ukraine in defending its sovereignty, independence and its territorial integrity against Russian aggression, both in the traditional domains and in cyberspace, including by helping strengthen Ukraine’s civilian cyber capacity through the Tallinn Mechanism. More broadly, we will continue our conversations on the topics of shared interest broached at the conference in Paris on February 26, 2024.

    Canada and France recognize that the deportation of Ukrainian children is a major concern and, as part of the international coalition, we will continue our efforts to ensure the return of the Ukrainian children deported to Russia.

    Contribute to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific

    Canada and France are two Pacific nations that wish to actively contribute to regional stability and security. We aim to maintain an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, free of excessive dependencies and any form of coercion, and founded on respect for international law, sovereignty and multilateralism.

    We reaffirm our shared commitment to support peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, through implementing United Nations resolutions and implementing sanctions decided upon by the United Nations Security Council. We remain fully engaged with our partners to dissuade any attempt to circumvent those sanctions by means of maritime surveillance and maritime air surveillance.

    We deplore the rising tensions in the South China Sea. We strongly oppose coercive and destabilizing activities, which are leading to increasingly violent and recurrent incidents, and call for the various parties to engage in dialogue. We also highlight the importance for all states to be able to exercise their rights and freedoms, including freedom of navigation and overflight, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

    Our two countries will strengthen our cooperation in terms of strategic and military analysis in the region, study opportunities for deploying future joint patrol missions, and increase our participation in multilateral exercises. This cooperation will improve interoperability between the armed forces of our two countries. In the same vein, we will consider integrating Canadian support to the deployment of the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.

    Canada and France will cooperate more closely to fight against illegal fishing and ensure maritime surveillance with Pacific Island countries in order to strengthen their sovereignty. We will work on joint deployments in the area. We will also strengthen regional security by participating in the training of Pacific Island partner countries.

    Collaborate more closely on international crisis management and conduct joint operations

    Canada and France recognize that climate change is not only an environmental threat, but is also one of the greatest security challenges of our time. We wholeheartedly support NATO’s Climate Change and Security Action Plan, and we are two of the 12 sponsoring Allied nations of the NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence in Montreal.

    We will share our crisis management situation assessments, as we did recently during the crisis in Haiti, and in anticipation of situations in areas of mutual interest, like the Middle East. We will identify new opportunities to deploy together. We will strengthen the partnership within NATO by sharing experience among framework nations for Canada’s deployment in Latvia and France’s deployment in Romania. France stands ready to cooperate with Canada to facilitate logistical support to Canadian forces prepositioned in Latvia.

    In the Canadian Arctic, Canada and France collaborate on Operation NANOOK, the Canadian Armed Forces’ signature operation in that region. Our two countries wish to increase joint navigation exercises, knowledge sharing, interoperability and training of crews in polar environments, drawing on the expertise and support of the Canadian Armed Forces in the Canadian Arctic.

    In the Sahel and more recently in the Gulf of Guinea, Canada has provided the French Armed Forces with unfailing support under Operation FREQUENCE. We intend to renew this important, effective collaboration in 2025.

    Collaborate more closely on the modernization of armed forces

    To better respond to crises, Canada and France will deepen our partnership to modernize our armed forces and improve our ability to conduct joint operations.

    We will continue sharing expertise on human resources, the heart of our armies, to improve recruitment and training on specific skills, while leveraging each other’s capabilities in areas such as transport, strategic resupply, and submarine forces.

    Canada and France are committed to increasing our defence capacity and strengthening our capabilities to ensure our sovereignty and support our partners. To that end, we will share our respective technical know-how, and will find tangible new ways to work together on land, sea, air and cyberspace. We will continue discussing how to organize and improve our industrial and procurement processes.

    Fight against foreign interference and information manipulation

    Canada and France are confronted with foreign interference operations and information manipulation. Canada and France will increase communication with each other to effectively respond to those threats.

    Through our commitment to the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (G7 RRM), our two countries are developing a collective response framework to counter foreign operations of information manipulation, as announced at the G7 Summit in Apulia. These efforts must be accompanied by support for factual and high-quality information, such as through the International Partnership on Information and Democracy and the Forum on Information and Democracy. We welcome initiatives such as the Journalism Trust Initiative, in which Canadian and French media are participating, to foster high-quality information.

    Thanks to the G7 RRM, we are also developing collective approaches to counter other threats to democracy and will continue to advance these objectives during our successive G7 presidencies in 2025 and 2026.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Kashim Shettima, GCON, Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

    Source: United Nations secretary general

     
    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Kashim Shettima, GCON, Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Secretary-General and the Vice-President discussed efforts to deepen UN-Nigeria cooperation. The Secretary-General and the Vice-President, in his capacity as Chair of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States, discussed the political and security situation in the subregion. 
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Biographical notice

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 2

    Mylène Paradis (BA [communications], Université Laval, 1991; MA [journalism], Université Laval, 1993) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2002.

    Mylène Paradis (BA [communications], Université Laval, 1991; MA [journalism], Université Laval, 1993) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2002. At headquarters, she held positions with the Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force and the Central America and Caribbean Bureau. She was Chief of Staff to the Deputy Minister of International Development and Director of the Global Health and Nutrition Branch. Abroad, she was posted to Madrid from 2005 to 2008. Throughout her career, she has held secondments to various departments, including the Privy Council Office, Citizenship and Immigration Canada and Health Canada. Most recently, she was Director General of Canadian Partnerships for Health and Social Development at Global Affairs Canada.

    Marianick Tremblay (BBA [civil and international law], Université de Sherbrooke, 1989; LL.B. Université de Sherbrooke, 1990) was called to the Quebec Bar in 1990 and joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. At headquarters, she served as senior counsel in the Environmental Law Division, coordinator of the Human Security Program, and senior counsel for small arms. Ms. Tremblay also served as deputy director of the Brazil and Southern Cone Section, and then as director of Hemispheric Affairs, which included relations with the Organization of American States and coordination of the Canadian delegation’s participation in the Summit of the Americas. From 2018 to 2021, she served as director general of the Mobilization of Canadians in the Partnerships for Development Innovation Sector. She has served in various overseas postings, including Mexico (1995–1998), Morocco (2001–2005), Chile (2007–2010), and as Ambassador to El Salvador (2010–2012), Ecuador (2015–2018), and Colombia (2021–2024).

    Craig Weichel (BA Honours [History], Wilfrid Laurier University, 1994; MA [History], McMaster University, 1996) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1998. At headquarters, he worked in the U.S. General Relations, Northern Europe, Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (Nuclear), and United Nations divisions. He also headed the Natural Disaster Response and Civilian Security Policy Division and the North Korea Task Force. From 2007 to 2009, he was President of the Professional Association of Foreign Service Officers. Abroad, he served in New York with the Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations; in Vienna with the Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe; in Rome and, more recently, in Washington, where he directed the embassy’s environment and energy program.

    Brenda Wills (Hons BComm, University of Manitoba, 2003; MSc [Sustainable Development], University of Sussex, 2021) is a Métis from Red River, Manitoba who joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2004. Her first posting abroad was in Washington, D.C. as Second Secretary (Trade Policy). She subsequently served as First Secretary (Trade) in Chile, Senior Trade Commissioner and Counsellor (Trade) in Colombia, and Counsellor (Trade Policy) in Mexico City. At Headquarters, she worked in the Trade Policy and Negotiations Branch, first on negotiations with the European Union and the European Free Trade Association, and then on the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations as Deputy Director of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement. She also served as Chief of Staff to the Assistant Deputy Minister of International Business Development and Canada’s Chief Trade Commissioner. Most recently, she served as Senior Trade Commissioner and Counsellor (Commercial Affairs) in Singapore.

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Egypt: call for UK national Alaa Abdel Fattah to be released at end of jail term

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The prominent blogger, writer and human rights activist is due to be released on Sunday after five years of arbitrary imprisonment

    Egypt has track record of submitting political detainees to ‘rotation’, where bogus reasons are found to deny their release  

    ‘The UK government should pull out all the stops to ensure Alaa walks free this Sunday’ – Sacha Deshmukh  

    The Egyptian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release the prominent Egyptian-British blogger, writer and human rights activist Aala Abdel Fattah who will have completed his unjust five-year prison sentence in three days’ time (29 September), said Amnesty International today. 

    In reprisal for his activism, the Egyptian authorities arrested Alaa Abdel Fattah on 29 September 2019, and subsequently – following a grossly unfair trial – sentenced him to five years in prison on charges that included “spreading false news”. 

    Amnesty is warning that there is a risk that the authorities will refuse to release the prominent political activist despite his having served the full five years in prison, by refusing to count time spent in pre-trial detention as part of his prison sentence already served. The authorities may also seek to extend his arbitrary detention by bringing fresh charges against him. The Egyptian authorities have a track record of indefinitely detaining people imprisoned for political reasons by bringing new bogus identical or similar charges, even after a court has ordered their release or they’ve completed their sentence – a highly abusive practice known as “rotation”. 

    For years, Abdel Fattah was detained in deplorable conditions and security officials subjected him to torture and other ill-treatment in custody. In May 2022, following a public outcry, he was transferred to Wadi al-Natroun Prison where his health and detention conditions improved. It was only recently that the authorities finally allowed him access to reading materials, as well as television and written correspondence. 

    However, the prison authorities have continued to deny him access to fresh air and sunlight for the past five years, only allowing him to exercise in an indoor hall. The authorities also continue to deny him access to his lawyer as well as to consular visits from the UK authorities. 

    Mahmoud Shalaby, Amnesty International’s Egypt Researcher, said:

     “Alaa Abdel Fattah has spent most of the last decade being repeatedly arrested and unjustly imprisoned simply for peacefully exercising his human rights.

    “He is a prisoner of conscience – he should never have been forced to spend a single minute behind bars. 

    “Egyptian authorities have a dreadful track record of indefinitely detaining political dissidents by concocting new reasons to keep them locked up. 

    “The prospect that the authorities could further extend his unlawful imprisonment instead of releasing him is appalling.

    “If the authorities fail to release Alaa Abdel Fattah this would further compound the cruelty and injustice he has already suffered in custody. 

    “The Egyptian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release him and allow him to reunite with his loved ones at long last.” 

    Jailed for ‘spreading false news’ 

    On 20 December 2021, an Emergency State Security Court convicted Alaa Abdel Fattah on charges which included “spreading false news” and sentenced him to five years in prison following a grossly unfair trial in reprisal for his activism. Human rights lawyer Mohamed Baker and blogger Mohamed Radwan “Oxygen” were also convicted on similar charges, and sentenced to four years in prison. On 19 July 2023, following sustained campaigning for his release, Mohamed Baker received a presidential pardon after nearly four years of arbitrary detention. Abdel Fattah is a prominent political activist and government critic who has been repeatedly targeted for his role in the country’s 2011 uprising. He is among thousands of people who continue to be arbitrarily detained without legal basis in Egypt solely for exercising their human rights. The Egyptian authorities continued to carry out arrests of actual or perceived critics as part of an unrelenting crackdown on dissent.

    Long-running UK campaign

    Alaa Abdel Fattah is a UK national and his family have mounted a long-running campaign – supported by Amnesty – calling on the UK government to help secure his freedom. In June, the family marked Father’s Day by unfurling a giant banner down the side of Brighton Pier to draw attention to Abdel Fattah’s links to Brighton, the city in which his young son lives. In October and November 2022, Abdel Fattah’s family staged various protests outside the Foreign Office and Downing Street to highlight the fact that Alaa was conducting a lengthy hunger strike in prison in the lead-up to the COP27 climate change summit in Egypt. Amnesty has been calling on the UK government to develop a coherent strategy for how it acts over cases where UK nationals such as Abdel Fattah are arbitrarily detained overseas. Amnesty believes the new strategy should include, as a minimum, the Government calling for an arbitrarily-detained person’s immediate release (including publicly where requested by the family), pressing for access to a lawyer, a fair trial and medical care where relevant, demanding consular access, insisting that UK officials be able to attend trials, and regularly meeting with family members to outline the Government’s overall approach in the case.

    Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UK’s Chief Executive, said: 

    “Alaa’s a courageous democracy activist who should never have spent a single day behind bars never mind five years, and the UK government should pull out all the stops to ensure Alaa walks free this Sunday and is guaranteed safe passage to the UK.

    “The family have campaigned long and hard on Alaa’s case and we share their frustration that the previous Government has appeared to ‘coast’ for long periods over his case rather than exerting sustained diplomatic pressure on his behalf. 

    “The UK government must press hard for Alaa’s release on Sunday and see this as an opportunity to turn a corner on how it deals with the cases of British nationals arbitrarily detained overseas.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US, Zambia enhance security cooperation and capabilities with UN engagement training

    Source: United States Army

    U.S. Army Staff Sgt. James Cooley, a civil affairs soldier with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion, listens intently during a UN engagement training with the Zambia Defence Force in Chongwe District, Zambia, Sept. 13, 2024. In addition to strengthening ZDF civil affairs capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice. (Courtesy Photo) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

    Back to 

    U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa

    LUSAKA, Zambia – From September 2-13, 2024, the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa’s (SETAF-AF) civil affairs team in Zambia (CAT Zambia) facilitated a two-week United Nations engagement course for select participants from the Zambian Army. The training, held at the Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Center in the Chongwe District, focused on preparing trainers within the Zambia Defence Force (ZDF) for future self-taught courses.

    The mission supported partner capacity building and enhanced security cooperation between the U.S. and Zambia. In addition to strengthening ZDF capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice.

    U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Tessa Snyder, a civil affairs soldier with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion, shakes hands with Zambian Brig. Gen. T. Banda, the commandant for Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Center, during UN engagement training with the Zambia Defence Force in Chongwe District, Zambia, Sept. 13, 2024. In addition to strengthening ZDF civil affairs capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice. (Courtesy Photo) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

    “The UN engagement platoon ‘train the trainer’ course was beneficial in allowing CAT Zambia to understand how the UN operates within a peacekeeping capacity, and how their use of civil military cooperation and engagement teams is very similar to U.S. Army civil affairs,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. James Cooley, a civil affairs soldier with CAT Zambia, SETAF-AF.

    The course, taught in partnership with the Institute for Security Governance (ISG), builds a sustainable training program within the ZDF by training future trainers who will continue passing on the skills and knowledge acquired during the course. By focusing on a train-the-trainer approach, the team supports AFRICOM’s engagement style: partner-led, U.S.-enabled.

    As a component of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), ISG strengthens partner institutional capacity and capability through advising, education and professional development programs such as the engagement in Zambia.

    The ZDF also aims to establish a lasting impact, ensuring that their forces remain well equipped for future peacekeeping missions.

    1 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Zambia Defence Force soldiers participate in a U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion-sponsored UN engagement training event in Chongwe District, Zambia, Sept. 12, 2024. In addition to strengthening ZDF civil affairs capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice. (Courtesy Photo) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL
    2 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Soldiers with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion join a UN engagement training with the Zambia Defence Force in Chongwe District, Zambia, Sept. 12, 2024. In addition to strengthening ZDF civil affairs capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice. (Courtesy Photo) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL
    3 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Soldiers with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion listen intently during a UN engagement training with the Zambia Defence Force in Chongwe District, Zambia, Sept. 12, 2024. In addition to strengthening ZDF civil affairs capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice. (Courtesy Photo) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

    “Attending this course gave us the opportunity to continue working alongside Zambian soldiers who attended a civil affairs class we instructed earlier in the year,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Anthony Behring, a civil affairs soldier with CAT Zambia, SETAF-AF. “During the program, we were able to share best practices through joint discussions, while also learning from the Zambian’s extensive UN experiences.”

    The first week of the course included hands-on training, where participants engaged in exercises designed to mirror real-world peacekeeping scenarios. Instructors from CAT Zambia and ISG worked closely with participants to guide them through complex engagements with civil authorities, sharing prior experiences and enhancing their skill sets.

    1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Soldiers with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion join a UN engagement training with the Zambia Defence Force in Chongwe District, Zambia, Sept. 11, 2024. In addition to strengthening ZDF civil affairs capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice. (Courtesy Photo) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL
    2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Soldiers with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion join a UN engagement training with the Zambia Defence Force in Chongwe District, Zambia, Sept. 11, 2024. In addition to strengthening ZDF civil affairs capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice. (Courtesy Photo) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

    This civil affairs program highlights the importance of sustainable knowledge transfer within defense institutions. In line with AFRICOM’s guidance, the long-term goal is to create a self-sufficient training program that allows the ZDF to continually improve its own operational readiness.

    U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander of AFRICOM, has continually maintained that most of the continent’s nations prefer to solve African problems with African solutions. This engagement is the latest example of U.S. commitment to supporting that goal.

    Recent U.S. engagements in Zambia include the African Land Forces Summit 2024, which was held in Livingstone, April 22-26. With 40 African nations in attendance, this year’s theme was “Regional Solutions to Transnational Problems.”

    U.S. Army Sgt. Anthony Behring, a civil affairs soldier U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion, poses for a photo with Zambian Defence Force participants during UN engagement training with the Zambia Defence Force in Chongwe District, Zambia, Sept. 12, 2024. In addition to strengthening ZDF civil affairs capabilities, the initiative aligns with SETAF-AF and U.S. Africa Command strategic objectives to expand opportunities in Southern Africa, thereby distinguishing the U.S. as the region’s partner of choice. (Courtesy Photo) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

    Ongoing civil affairs evaluations will provide valuable insights into how future training programs can be adapted to better serve the ZDF’s specific needs. Looking ahead, SETAF-AF plans to continue its support of ZDF training efforts and explore ways to incorporate civil affairs into national and regional operations.

    “This engagement helped to highlight the benefits of continued partnership and cooperation,” concluded Behring.

    About SETAF-AF

    SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis-response options in Africa and Europe.

    Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: High-level Open Debate: “Leadership for peace: United in respect of the UN Charter in search of a secure future” Address by Jean-Noël Barrot Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs at the Security Council (25.09.24

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    President,

    I would like to thank Slovenia for organizing this open debate, and the UN Secretary-General, ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, and President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for their remarks.

    Our Council had to meet at a time when the world was being struck and divided by major conflicts of an exceptional gravity. And unfortunately, these conflicts are growing in number. It is the responsibility of our Council to resolve them and it needs to do more.

    Our first responsibility is to enforce the rules that govern the international order and to enforce the Charter of the United Nations.

    This means condemning without hesitation Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine, its neighbour. As I said yesterday: the Ukrainian people have been subjected to atrocities, war crimes, and indiscriminate bombardments on civilian targets on a daily basis for over 900 days. They are unjustly living in fear and suffering.

    This means condemning all violations committed by Russia. This means demanding that Russia end its war of aggression on Ukraine immediately and withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory. The General Assembly made this demand seven times in no uncertain terms.

    We have a responsibility to support Ukraine in its right to self-defence. France and its partners will continue to support Ukrainians as long as it takes in its efforts to stop Russia’s aggression and to find a just peace. And a just peace can only be based on compliance with our common Charter. It is at the core of President Zelenskyy’s peace plan that we support.

    We have a responsibility to uphold the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations in the face of an unequivocally illegal and unjustifiable war of aggression. Of this I am certain: these principles are dear to all of us, particularly the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States. Without these principles, it is the strong who make the law and not the law that governs the strong. Without these principles, borders would no longer be intangible. Without these principles, States would no longer have security and everyone would fear an invasion by their neighbour. We must uphold these principles and enforce them. You all understand that compliance with international law is our compass everywhere.

    We have clearly said since the barbaric terrorist attacks committed by Hamas and other terrorist groups on 7 October, which we condemn in the strongest terms, that Israel has the right to defend itself against aggression and the duty to do so in compliance with international law, particularly international humanitarian law. Everyone must respect this law, including Israel.

    The war in Gaza must stop now. For civilians, for the men and women of Gaza whose suffering must end; for the hostages who must finally be released, and for stability in the region, which is currently deeply shaken.

    The situation is untenable. The number of civilian victims is intolerable. In the face of this humanitarian disaster, it is vital to establish an immediate and permanent ceasefire and to enable the massive unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid as a matter of urgency. The civilian population’s needs are huge.

    To ensure a lasting end to the crisis in the Middle East, it is vital to reach a political settlement of the conflict between Israel and Palestine as a matter of urgency. This settlement is a two-state solution. You can count on France to continue to take the helm, with its partners, in promoting a critical and irreversible revitalization of peace efforts.

    It is also vital to now begin building the future of Gaza, the “day after”. It is up to the Palestinian Authority, which we support, to exercise its full authority over Gaza. For this to become a reality, the United Nations has and will have a central role to play.

    President,

    These vital demands must not be paid lip service but met with action. And I will say it again: our collective responsibility is to ensure this happens. That is why France will continue to work within this Council to sketch out this path.

    I asked that a meeting be held this evening on Lebanon, as hundreds of Lebanese people, including children, have lost their lives in Israel’s strikes. At a time when this Council must call for de-escalation to avoid regional conflagration with devasting outcomes. Our Council must call for reason, which requires restraint and a ceasefire, something that it has been doing for a long time.

    President,

    No war, no humanitarian tragedy should be forgotten.

    In Sudan, more than half the population is suffering from acute food insecurity. Famine has taken hold in the Zamzun camp in North Darfur. The situation is tragic. And we must remain mobilized. To raise awareness of the international community and to work together to address this tragic situation in Sudan, we held a conference in Paris where we raised more than €2 billion, €900 million of which from the European Union and its Member States, to support civilian populations in Sudan and its neighbouring countries. Many of our States signed a declaration of principles calling for Parties in the conflict to cease their hostilities, abide by their commitments and deliver on their obligations with respect to international humanitarian law and human rights. We have called on all States to refrain from any committing any acts that would fuel the conflict. I reiterate this appeal here today.

    Many diplomatic efforts have been made in recent months to end the crisis. These initiatives have produced humanitarian advances, such as the issuance of visas for humanitarian workers and the re-opening of the Adre border post. These advances are encouraging but are still not enough given the urgency of the situation. Together, we must do more.

    President,

    As members of this Council, and more broadly as members of the United Nations, we must work to ensure the Security Council is capable of fully exercising its prime responsibility in upholding international peace and security.

    That is the reason for France’s clear, long-standing and constant support for a comprehensive reform of the Security Council, based on the belief that expansion of both membership categories is required.

    We have been tirelessly advocating greater representation of Africa on the Security Council for 20 years, including among the permanent members. That is a key aspect of the G4 model, which we support, just as we support the aspirations of Brazil, Germany, India and Japan to gain permanent membership.

    In this same spirit of responsibility, France and Mexico promote an initiative that requires no amendment of the Charter. It is a commitment, an essential one, not to use a veto in the event of mass atrocities. That is a major expectation of the UN’s Member States. We owe it to them to progress on this matter.

    President,

    The principle of humanity must prevail. This year, we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, and I would like to recall that they are universal and apply in all circumstances in the event of armed conflict.

    We need to ensure they are enforced. We will reiterate this at high level, with the ICRC which is their guarantor. We need to enforce international humanitarian law. Because respect for these rules saves lives: the lives of women, children and men who suffer in war; the lives of the humanitarian personnel who try to save them, and whose immense courage I salute; and the lives of those, too, who will otherwise live with a terrible injury in their memory.

    There is only one standard: the law, made up of our Charter and our Conventions, which put humanity first.

    You can count on France to enforce this standard.

    Our Council, too, must enforce it in all circumstances.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: CORRECTION: The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) and Union of Comoros Strengthen Partnership with New EUR 330 Million Framework Agreement and Food Security Facility

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

    JEDDAH, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, September 26, 2024/APO Group/ —

    The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-idb.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, and the Union of Comoros have signed a new EUR 330 Million Framework Agreement, reinforcing their strong partnership. The agreement was signed by ITFC’s CEO, Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, Comoros’ Minister of Finance, Budget, and Banking Sector, and IsDB Governor, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim Abdourazak, during his visit to ITFC’s headquarters in Jeddah.

    The new 3-year Framework Agreement builds on the success of the previous EUR 330 million agreement, which achieved 83% of its target. It will focus on key sectors such as energy, agriculture, and SME support, aiming to mobilize trade financing and enhance economic development in Comoros. Since 2008, ITFC has approved over US$ 712 million in financing for Comoros, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the country’s growth.

    Commenting on the signing, Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of ITFC said, “We are proud to strengthen our partnership with the Union of Comoros through this new framework agreement, which reflects our shared commitment to fostering sustainable economic development. By focusing on key sectors such as energy, agriculture, and SME development, we aim to support the country in achieving its long-term goals under the Emerging Comoros Plan. Our efforts, including the newly signed Food Security Facility, demonstrate our dedication to addressing critical needs such as food security while empowering key industries to drive growth.”

    The Minister of Finance, Budget and Banking of the Union of Comoros, Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim Abdourazak, also commented: “I am proud and optimistic to sign today this framework agreement between the Union of Comoros and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC). This agreement marks a key milestone for the development of vital sectors such as energy, agriculture, and SMEs, the driving forces of our economy. In addition, ITFC signed a EUR 20 Million Food Security Facility in favor of the Union of Comoros and with two local banks, BDC and AFG Bank, as Executing Agencies, to support the continuous supply of essential foodstuffs at affordable prices to address food security challenges in the country. The Government of Comoros remains firmly committed to the priority programs and projects of the “Plan Comores Émergents”. Finally, on behalf of the Comorian Government and on my behalf, I would like to warmly thank ITFC for its ongoing support and look forward to strengthening our collaboration.” 

    ITFC’s broader support for Comoros includes capacity-building initiatives, such as the Reverse Linkage Project with Morocco for the sustainable tourism sector, and the equipment of the Central Vanilla Buying and Marketing Center under the Aid for Trade Initiative for the Arab States (AfTIAS 2.0) program. These efforts underline ITFC’s commitment to fostering sustainable development through integrated trade solutions.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine war: Zelensky’s pleas for help are getting drowned out in the clamour from the Middle East

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    While Russia continues its nuclear sabre rattling, with renewed threats to use its arsenal if attacked, fighting on the frontlines in Ukraine and in Russia’s Kursk region remains intense. But the diplomatic centre of gravity of the war recently shifted to New York and Washington.

    Discussions at the UN and meetings scheduled between the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, the US president Joe Biden and vice-president Kamala Harris are by no means unimportant for the outcomes of the conflict. But it is unlikely that they will constitute the pivotal moment in accelerating the pace towards a Ukrainian victory that Zelensky might envisage.

    At meetings at the UN general assembly and security council, Zelensky appealed to world leaders to support his country and force Russia to make peace with Ukraine. His vision to achieve this is via a second global peace summit. This time he wants Russia to participate after the first effort in Switzerland in June achieved very little.



    Read more:
    Ukraine summit fails to provide a path to peace for Kyiv and its allies

    But with Zelensky continuing to push his ten-point peace plan and Putin insisting on Ukraine recognising Russia’s annexation of Crimea and four regions on the mainland, the two sides are as far apart as ever. So prospects of any meaningful negotiations virtually non-existent.

    This has not deterred Zelensky from promoting to Ukraine’s allies what he is calling his “victory plan”.

    The plan “envisages quick and concrete steps by our strategic partners … from now until the end of December”. These concrete steps are likely to include more western military support and the permission to use longer-range western weapons against targets deeper inside Russia.

    This latter point is something on which the western alliance is divided – and the US sceptical on its strategic value. Putin’s insistence that Russia will respond by using its nuclear arsenal if it detects any western missiles crossing its border will have added to this uncertainty.

    Even if more decisive western support were suddenly forthcoming, it is unlikely that it would offset other disadvantages that Ukraine and its allies are facing on the battlefield and beyond. Russia has consolidated its alliances with Iran, North Korea and China. All of these countries have supplied mission-critical ammunition and equipment that has enabled the Kremlin to sustain its war effort in Ukraine.

    Russia, so far, has also maintained its advantage in numbers. It appears to be determined to push this even harder following Putin’s order to increase the number of combat troops of the Russian army by another 180,000 soldiers.

    Meanwhile, a relentless Russian air campaign against Ukrainian infrastructure has also caused lasting damage, especially to the country’s energy supply network. This is likely to have a particularly adverse effect on Ukraine’s civilian population. It is likely to seriously dent morale during the coming winter.

    Other plans (and priorities)

    As discussions at the UN this week have underlined, there is also some diplomatic momentum building up behind a joint proposal by Brazil and China that was initially launched in May. Brazil’s president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, pushed the plan during his speech at the UN general assembly on September 24, as did China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi.

    Like previous proposals from China and Brazil individually, as well as from Indonesia, a group of African states and Saudi Arabia, the joint Brazilian-Chinese plan calls for a ceasefire along the current frontlines. Negotiations would then follow.

    Ukraine fears, rightly, that this would entrench the status quo and effectively amount to Kyiv giving up territory illegally annexed by Russia. It would not guarantee any fruitful negotiations but give Russia time and space to regroup and rebuild its armed forces for a likely future escalation. None of this is acceptable to Ukraine and its allies as Zelensky made clear in his speech at the UN.

    Volodymr Zelensky criticises the Brazil-China plan at the UN general assembly.

    China’s previous effort to promote this joint initiative with Brazil just before the peace summit in Switzerland last June, did not go very far. It may not go much further this time either.

    But attention and resources are now much more focused on the Middle East and – to a lesser extent – the civil war in Sudan. So the very fact of this plan’s resurrection may be enough for Russia and its allies to prevent the rest of the world from uniting behind the western-backed Ukrainian proposal for a second global peace summit.

    This is clearly a concern for Ukraine. Zelensky, with a clear eye on countries in the global south, not only rejected the proposal but also argued that forcing Ukraine to make territorial concessions to Russia would be akin to reimposing a version of the brutal colonial past of the Soviet era on his country.

    Will Zelensky be Trumped in November?

    While the stars are thus hardly aligning in Ukraine’s favour at the UN in New York, things did not go much better as far as US domestic politics is concerned ahead of presidential elections in November. Questioning whether Donald Trump really has a credible plan to end the war, Zelensky triggered the notoriously short-fused Republican contender into lashing out at him at campaign rallies.

    Donald Trump takes aim at Volodymr Zelensky.

    Trump is both accusing Zelensky of refusing to make a deal and expressing doubts about Ukraine’s ability to win the war. Meanwhile, a recent opinion piece penned by Robert F. Kennedy Jnr and Donald Trump Jnr for The Hill, an influential political newspaper, urges that Ukraine be pushed to make a deal with Russia to prevent nuclear escalation.

    And Trump’s running-mate J.D. Vance has made clear his opposition to the US continuing to supply aid to Ukraine if elected in November. So it’s pretty clear that there is a very real prospect that Washington may soon cease to be Kyiv’s most important global ally.

    All of this explains the urgency behind Zelensky’s push for more and more decisive western support in the coming months, and his pleas to the wider international community to back efforts for a just peace for Ukraine. But it also indicates that Russia and its allies have, for now, done enough to further frustrate any progress towards a Ukrainian victory both on the battlefield and at the negotiation table.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    – ref. Ukraine war: Zelensky’s pleas for help are getting drowned out in the clamour from the Middle East – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-war-zelenskys-pleas-for-help-are-getting-drowned-out-in-the-clamour-from-the-middle-east-239752

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: New ADB–IFFEd Partnership to Unlock $500 Million in Concessional Education Financing in Asia and Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (26 September 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed an agreement with the International Finance Facility for Education (IFFEd) that will enable at least $500 million in new concessional education funding for lower middle-income countries (LMICs) in Asia and the Pacific.

    Under the financing partnership, IFFEd—a sovereign-backed Swiss foundation established in 2023 to invest in education and skills in LMICs—will guarantee $125 million of ADB’s sovereign loan exposure across all sectors, known as a synthetic portfolio, and provide an initial $50 million in grants.

    By blending IFFEd’s guarantees to ADB with grants that will comprise 10% of every loan, the first-of-its-kind arrangement facilitates a four times leverage ratio of the guarantee, boosting the amount of capital ADB can lend while lowering borrowing costs for the bank’s developing member countries (DMCs).

    “Education is the cornerstone of modern, prosperous, and inclusive societies, and we are pleased to announce this partnership with IFFEd,” said ADB Vice-President for Sectors and Themes Fatima Yasmin. “By pooling catalytic and concessional financing, this initiative means our lower middle-income DMCs can scale up their investments in education and skills—vital to building knowledge-based economies—along with other sectors at the same time.”

    LMICs face an education crisis. More than 50% of students in these countries are not able to read simple text by age 10 despite attending school, and graduates do not have the skills to find jobs, leaving employers unable to fill vacancies.

    As countries move from lower to lower middle-income status, they tend to get caught in a financing “missing middle” where they are no longer eligible to receive grants but cannot afford nonconcessional financing—forcing a difficult decision of where to invest, exacerbated by limited domestic financing.

    By bringing concessional or grant resources to developing countries seeking to strengthen their education systems, the ADB–IFFEd partnership’s key innovation lies in the fact that—at a time of rapid change—it will help ADB’s DMCs prepare for a future characterized by digital transformation, climate change, demographic transitions, and rapid urbanization.

    IFFEd’s sovereign donors include Canada, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, while the Atlassian Foundation, Jacobs Foundation, Porticus, Rockefeller Foundation, and the Soros Economic Development Fund (the investment arm of Open Society Foundations) have provided seed capital. IFFEd, which benefits from a strong credit rating, will initially focus on Asia and the Pacific, and Africa, in collaboration with multilateral development banks (MDBs).

    “Investing in education and skills in LMICs—home to nearly half of the world’s children and youth—is key to powering long-term economic growth and making progress on global health, climate, and equity goals,” said IFFEd Founding Chief Executive Officer Karthik Krishnan.

    “IFFEd has been recognized by the G20 MDB Capital Adequacy Framework Review as one of the most significant development finance innovations in the past decade and delivers seven times more impact than traditional grants. ADB played a key role in shaping the IFFEd instrument and as our first founding MDB partner, ADB is showcasing its unwavering commitment to alleviating poverty and powering economic growth in Asia and the Pacific,” added Mr. Krishnan.

    The following ADB DMCs are currently eligible for IFFEd funding: Bangladesh, India, Mongolia, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam.

    IFFEd-funded education projects can support ADB programs at any level of the education system—from early childhood development and school education to technical and vocational training, skills development and tertiary education.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks at High-level Meeting Commemorating and Promoting the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons [bilingual, as delivered; scroll down for all-English and all-French]

    Source: United Nations – English

    xcellencies, ladies and gentlemen,  

    Thank you for joining us on this important day highlighting the need for the total elimination of nuclear weapons.

    There should be no place for these devices of death in our world.

    Nuclear weapons are a double madness.

    The first madness is the existence of weapons that can wipe out entire populations, communities and cities in a single attack. 

    We know that any use of a nuclear weapon would unleash a humanitarian catastrophe — a nightmare spilling over borders, affecting us all.

    These weapons deliver no real security or stability — only looming danger, and constant threats to our very existence.

    The second madness is that, despite the enormous and existential risks these weapons pose to humanity, we are no closer to eliminating them than we were 10 years ago.

    In fact, we are heading in the wrong direction entirely.

    Not since the worst days of the Cold War has the specter of nuclear weapons cast such a dark shadow.

    Nuclear saber-rattling has reached a fever pitch.
    We have even heard threats to use a nuclear weapon.  

    There are fears of a new arms race.

    Meanwhile, the norms painstakingly established over decades against the use, spread and testing of nuclear weapons are being eroded.

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,  

    The first-hand, lived experience of the hibakusha — the brave survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki — stand as clear reminders of where the nuclear path ends.

    They continue to sound the alarm, reminding us that we cannot afford to forget the lessons learned from those horrifying nuclear attacks in 1945.

    And yet, nearly 80 years later, nuclear-weapon States continue to roll the dice, resisting disarmament measures and believing that, somehow, our luck will never run out.

    But luck is not a strategy.

    They must stop gambling with humanity’s future.

    This starts with nuclear-weapon States honoring their commitments, and meeting their disarmament obligations.

    Until nuclear weapons are eliminated, these States should commit to never use them under any circumstances. And they must demonstrate the utmost transparency in all matters related to nuclear weapons.

    I also call on the Russian Federation and the United States to return to the process of nuclear arms reductions, with other nuclear-weapon States following in due course.

    Disarmament and non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin.

    Progress in one spurs progress in the other.

    States must pursue both as a matter of urgency.

    Just days ago, the Summit of the Future — and the Pact for the Future that emerged — resulted in a new global commitment to revitalize the global disarmament regime, and bring our world closer to our goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.

    This goal is supported by the vast majority of Member States — including through the General Assembly’s first-ever resolution in 1946 calling for nuclear disarmament. 

    The time has come to take steps to ensure that a nuclear weapon is never used again.

    Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,

    Nous vivons – depuis bien trop longtemps – sous la menace des armes nucléaires.

    Les générations précédentes ont appris à se cacher sous leur bureau ou à se réfugier dans des bunkers pour échapper à une attaque nucléaire.

    Mais les dirigeants ne peuvent pas échapper à leur responsabilité primordiale de prendre des mesures concrètes pour réduire la menace nucléaire – et y mettre fin, une fois pour toutes.

    L’heure de l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires a sonné.

    L’Organisation des Nations Unies est aux côtés de tous les États membres – tandis que nous œuvrons ensemble pour bâtir l’avenir que nos enfants et petits-enfants méritent : un avenir pacifique et débarrassé des armes nucléaires.

    Je vous remercie. 

    ******

    [all-English]

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,  

    Thank you for joining us on this important day highlighting the need for the total elimination of nuclear weapons.

    There should be no place for these devices of death in our world.

    Nuclear weapons are a double madness.

    The first madness is the existence of weapons that can wipe out entire populations, communities and cities in a single attack. 

    We know that any use of a nuclear weapon would unleash a humanitarian catastrophe — a nightmare spilling over borders, affecting us all.

    These weapons deliver no real security or stability — only looming danger, and constant threats to our very existence.

    The second madness is that, despite the enormous and existential risks these weapons pose to humanity, we are no closer to eliminating them than we were 10 years ago.

    In fact, we are heading in the wrong direction entirely.

    Not since the worst days of the Cold War has the specter of nuclear weapons cast such a dark shadow.

    Nuclear saber-rattling has reached a fever pitch.
    We have even heard threats to use a nuclear weapon.  

    There are fears of a new arms race.

    Meanwhile, the norms painstakingly established over decades against the use, spread and testing of nuclear weapons are being eroded.

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,  

    The first-hand, lived experience of the hibakusha — the brave survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki — stand as clear reminders of where the nuclear path ends.

    They continue to sound the alarm, reminding us that we cannot afford to forget the lessons learned from those horrifying nuclear attacks in 1945.

    And yet, nearly 80 years later, nuclear-weapon States continue to roll the dice, resisting disarmament measures and believing that, somehow, our luck will never run out.

    But luck is not a strategy.

    They must stop gambling with humanity’s future.

    This starts with nuclear-weapon States honoring their commitments, and meeting their disarmament obligations.

    Until nuclear weapons are eliminated, these States should commit to never use them under any circumstances. And they must demonstrate the utmost transparency in all matters related to nuclear weapons.

    I also call on the Russian Federation and the United States to return to the process of nuclear arms reductions, with other nuclear-weapon States following in due course.

    Disarmament and non-proliferation are two sides of the same coin.

    Progress in one spurs progress in the other.

    States must pursue both as a matter of urgency.
    Just days ago, the Summit of the Future — and the Pact for the Future that emerged — resulted in a new global commitment to revitalize the global disarmament regime, and bring our world closer to our goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.

    This goal is supported by the vast majority of Member States — including through the General Assembly’s first-ever resolution in 1946 calling for nuclear disarmament. 

    The time has come to take steps to ensure that a nuclear weapon is never used again.

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    We have spent far too long living with the threat of nuclear weapons.

    Previous generations learned how to hide under their desks or flee to bunkers to escape a nuclear assault.

    But leaders cannot escape their overriding responsibility to take concrete steps to reduce and end the nuclear threat, once and for all.

    The time for the total elimination of nuclear weapons is now.

    The United Nations stands with all Member States as we work together to build the peaceful, nuclear-weapons-free future our children and grandchildren deserve.

    Thank you.

    ******

    [all-French]

    Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,

    Je vous remercie d’abord de vous être joints à nous en ce jour spécial qui nous rappelle combien il importe d’éliminer totalement les armes nucléaires.

    Ces engins de mort n’ont pas leur place sur notre planète.

    Les armes nucléaires sont une folie à deux titres.

    D’abord, l’existence même de ces armes, capables d’anéantir des populations, des communautés et des villes entières en une seule frappe, est une aberration.

    Nous le savons, tout emploi de l’arme nucléaire déclencherait une catastrophe humanitaire – un cauchemar qui ne connaîtrait pas de frontières et nous toucherait toutes et tous.

    Loin d’apporter une véritable sécurité et stabilité, ces armes constituent un danger imminent et font peser une menace constante sur notre existence.

    Deuxième aberration, malgré les risques énormes et existentiels que ces armes font courir à l’humanité, nous ne sommes pas plus près de les voir disparaître qu’il y a dix ans.

    À vrai dire, nous allons dans la direction complètement opposée.

    Jamais, depuis les pires heures de la guerre froide, le spectre des armes nucléaires n’a jeté une telle ombre.

    Les rodomontades nucléaires ont atteint leur paroxysme.

    On entend même des menaces d’emploi d’armes nucléaires.

    On craint une nouvelle course aux armements.

    Parallèlement, on voit s’éroder les normes qui, laborieusement, avaient été élaborées au fil des décennies pour prohiber l’emploi, la dissémination et la mise à l’essai de ces armes.

    Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,

    Ce qu’ont vécu dans leur chair les hibakusha – ces courageux survivants d’Hiroshima et de Nagasaki –nous rappelle où conduit inévitablement le chemin du nucléaire.

    Ces femmes et ces hommes continuent de sonner l’alarme, en nous conjurant de ne pas oublier les leçons tirées des horribles frappes atomiques de 1945.

    Pourtant, près de 80 ans plus tard, les États dotés d’armes nucléaires continuent de jouer avec le feu, de se soustraire aux mesures de désarmement et de croire que, d’une manière ou d’une autre, la chance les servira toujours.

    Toutefois, la chance n’est pas une stratégie.

    Ils doivent cesser de jouer avec l’avenir de l’humanité.

    Avant tout, il faut que les États dotés d’armes nucléaires honorent leurs engagements et respectent leurs obligations en matière de désarmement.

    Tant que les armes nucléaires n’auront pas été éliminées, ces États doivent s’engager à ne jamais les utiliser, quelles que soient les circonstances. En outre, ils doivent faire preuve d’une plus grande transparence sur toutes les questions concernant ces armes.

    Je demande également à la Fédération de Russie et aux États-Unis de s’engager de nouveau dans une démarche visant à limiter les armes nucléaires. Les autres États dotés d’armes nucléaires pourront s’y joindre en temps voulu.

    Le désarmement et la non-prolifération sont les deux faces d’une même médaille.

    Tout progrès d’un côté entraîne des progrès de l’autre.

    Les États doivent s’employer à atteindre ces deux objectifs de toute urgence.

    Il y a quelques jours seulement, lors du Sommet de l’avenir – et dans le texte même du Pacte pour l’avenir qui a été adopté – la communauté internationale a pris un nouvel engagement : celui de revitaliser le régime mondial de désarmement et de faire en sorte que le monde progresse vers la réalisation de l’objectif commun qu’est l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires.

    C’est un objectif auquel souscrit la grande majorité des États Membres, qui se sont notamment exprimés en ce sens dans la toute première résolution appelant au désarmement nucléaire adoptée en 1946 par l’Assemblée générale.

    Le moment est venu de prendre des mesures pour que l’arme nucléaire ne soit plus jamais utilisée.

    Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,

    Nous vivons – depuis bien trop longtemps – sous la menace des armes nucléaires.

    Les générations précédentes ont appris à se cacher sous leur bureau ou à se réfugier dans des bunkers pour échapper à une attaque nucléaire.

    Mais les dirigeants ne peuvent pas échapper à leur responsabilité primordiale de prendre des mesures concrètes pour réduire la menace nucléaire – et y mettre fin, une fois pour toutes.

    L’heure de l’élimination totale des armes nucléaires a sonné.

    L’Organisation des Nations Unies est aux côtés de tous les États Membres ‒ tandis que nous œuvrons ensemble pour bâtir l’avenir que nos enfants et petits-enfants méritent : un avenir pacifique et débarrassé des armes nucléaires.

    Je vous remercie.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from CWA President Claude Cummings, Jr. on the Passing of Civil Rights and Labor Leader Bill Lucy

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    I’m deeply saddened by the passing of William “Bill” Lucy. He was a pillar of both the Civil Rights and Labor Movements, a pioneer, a mentor, and a visionary not just for social justice but for the nation as a whole. He inspired me to dedicate myself to building and strengthening connections between the Civil Rights and Labor Movements.

    Bill built his career on his willingness to help others and stood shoulder to shoulder with figures like civil rights pioneer Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and freedom fighter Nelson Mandela. He was there in South Africa, after 20 years of fighting, to witness Mandela elected President. He spent four decades as the International Secretary-Treasurer of AFSCME and co-founded the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) where he served as its inaugural president.

    Just a few months ago, I presented Bill with the inaugural NAACP Legacy Award. for his service on the NAACP National Executive Board. I’m thankful that he got to “receive his flowers” while he was alive and enjoy the adoration and praise he so richly deserved.

    Bill will be remembered by millions for the impact he had on their lives. And, though I mourn his loss, I remain thankful for the opportunity to have experienced his wisdom, love for working people, and drive for a better future for all.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: From Executive Assistant to Vice-President: APO Group Celebrates In-House Talent with the Appointment of Michelle Scott as Vice President of Business Enablement and Chief of Staff

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

    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, September 26, 2024/APO Group/ —

    APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is proud to announce a significant leadership appointment with the promotion of Senior Executive Assistant Michelle Scott to Vice President (VP) of Business Enablement and Chief of Staff.

    These move underscore APO’s commitment to recognising potential, fostering leadership from within, giving team members the platform to advance in their careers, and highlight APO Group’s dedication to nurturing and elevating its internal talent.

    In her new capacity, Michelle will spearhead the newly established Business Enablement Department. Her focus will be on optimising customer experience, driving operational efficiencies, and enhancing cost management. She will oversee project management, business analysis, and cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring seamless integration between the Business Enablement Team and all company departments.

    “Michelle’s deep understanding of our business, combined with her strategic mindset and ability to identify areas for improvement, makes her the perfect choice to lead the Business Enablement team,” said Bas Wijne, CEO of APO Group. “Her analytical approach and commitment to finding effective solutions will be instrumental in driving operational excellence and supporting our long-term goals.”

    In her dual role, Michelle will not only drive operational efficiencies as VP of Business Enablement but, as Chief of Staff, she will also serve as a trusted adviser and strategist to Founder and Chairman Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, ensuring there is seamless alignment between leadership and APO Group’s overall vision.

    Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com) stated, “Throughout her time at APO Group, Michelle Scott has consistently shown exceptional loyalty, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. From the moment she joined as my Senior Executive Assistant, it was clear that she had the potential to contribute far beyond her role and grow alongside the company.

    Her sharp and decisive leadership has earned Michelle the trust and respect of her colleagues. Her leadership has already delivered meaningful improvements to our operations, and we look forward to the continued infusion of fresh energy and strategic insights that she will bring as she officially joins our Leadership Team.”

    “I am deeply honoured to assume the role of Vice President of Business Enablement and Chief of Staff at APO Group,” said Michelle Scott. “The establishment of the Business Enablement division highlights our organisation’s growth, evolution, and commitment to embracing new technologies and innovations. I am thrilled about this incredible opportunity and look forward to collaborating closely with our talented teams to advance our strategic objectives, enhance operational efficiencies, and continue delivering exceptional value to our clients.

    I am confident that the exciting journey we embark on today will shape our future and solidify our position as the leading communications partner of choice in Africa. Additionally, I am immensely proud to be part of a company that not only values its clients but also prioritises the development of its team. My promotion is a testament to this commitment.”

    APO Group is entering an exciting new chapter of innovation and growth. We are committed to delivering exceptional value to our clients and transforming the communications industry across Africa. We encourage our clients, partners, and stakeholders to join us on this journey as we continue to raise the bar, set new industry standards, and create a meaningful impact across the continent.  APO Group congratulates Michelle Scott on her well-deserved promotion and looks forward to the continued success she will bring in her new role as Vice President of Business Enablement and Chief of Staff.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: West and Central African Countries Advance Human Mobility and Climate Change in National Plans

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Geneva/Lomé, 25 September – Countries across West and Central Africa are taking decisive steps towards address the growing challenges of human mobility and climate change through efforts to integrating these into their national policies. This initiative marks an important milestone for the region as it moves toward more holistic, and policy driven climate action. 

    As the region grapples with rising climate-related displacement, with over 1.2 million people displaced by the recent flooding alone in 2024 compared to 624,700 people internally displaced the previous year. With the World Bank projection of up to 32 million climate migrants by 2050, governments are increasingly recognizing the need for comprehensive, forward-looking climate strategies. By prioritizing human mobility in national plans, countries are better positioned to address the dual challenges of climate change and displacement, ensuring that policies not only mitigate climate impacts but also support communities on the move.

    At a recent gathering, climate negotiators from West and Central African nations came together to discuss the critical link between climate change and human mobility. The event, co-hosted by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) alongside several United Nations agencies and environmental organizations, focused on equipping participants with the tools to integrate mobility concerns into their national adaptation plans (NAPs) and climate commitments (NDCs). This comes even as the United Nations Antonio Guterres called on all countries during the ongoing 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to produce national climate action plans by 2025 to address global climate change.

    “The reality we face today is stark, climate change is not a distant threat but a growing challenge that intensifies existing vulnerabilities and creates new ones,” said Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão, Special Representative for the United Nations Secretary-General and Head of the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel. “In West and Central Africa, extreme weather events, prolonged droughts, and rising sea levels are displacing entire communities and exacerbating competition for scarce resources.”

    The three-day event saw participants identify key opportunities to integrate human mobility considerations in climate negotiations, both at national and international levels, particularly in the lead-up to COP29 in November.  These discussions were crucial, as nations in the region seek to integrate climate-related migration and displacement into their broader climate resilience strategies.

    The event significantly featured active participation of young climate leaders and migrants from the region. They shared firsthand insights into the impact climate change is having in their communities, highlighting challenges such as increased flooding, shrinking arable land, and disrupted transhumance routes. Their innovative perspectives on integrating human mobility into national policies emphasize the need for inclusive, youth-driven solutions in regional climate strategies.  These insights underscored the urgent need for national policies that not only address climate change but also protect vulnerable populations forced to move by its impacts.

    “This training was an incredible chance for young advocates like myself to connect with experts and share ideas on the challenges we face. Integrating climate-related human mobility into our national policies is a big step forward,” said Mariam Hamzat, a climate and sustainability advocate from Nigeria.  “It’s up to us to keep pushing for these changes in West and Central Africa.” The event fostered collaboration among the nations, strengthening regional approaches to human mobility and climate change. By training negotiators to advocate for these issues at national levels and international platforms like COP 29 and amplifying the voices of young leaders, West and Central African countries are laying the groundwork for more inclusive, resilient climate policies that account for the growing realities of displacement in the region.

    “I have been impressed by the level of engagement of participants throughout the workshop, as well as with the willingness to keep on learning and understanding what human mobility entails in West and Central Africa”, observed Hind Aïssaoui Bennani, IOM Regional Specialist on climate mobility.

    The event was conducted in partnership with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Regional Coordination Centre for West and Central Africa, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and in collaboration with NDC Partnership and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 

    For more information, please contact:

    In Dakar: 

    Hind Aïssaoui Bennani,  haissaoui@iom.int

    Joëlle Furrer, jfurrer@iom.int   

    In Geneva: 

    Chloé Lavau, clavau@iom.int

    Kennedy Okoth, kokoth@iom.int  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden’s National Statement at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Mr President, Excellencies,

    We are gathered in this Assembly while the world, and this organisation, are facing major and existential challenges.

    We are gathered while we are witnessing an unprecedented number of armed conflicts. From Ukraine to Sudan, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Gaza.

    We are gathered while we are failing at our collective goal of maintaining international peace and security, of saving future generations from the horrors of war and from the disastrous consequences of underdevelopment and climate change.

    Mr President,

    The UN Charter – the sovereign equality of all states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the prohibition of the threat or use of force against any state – is being challenged. We must stand by the Charter.

    Sweden’s strong defence of international law, including the UN Charter, is based on the understanding that both our own security and that of other countries depends on it.

    Ensuring respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states – both large and small – is in our common interest. At its core lies the need for a global system that is open, predictable and applies equally to all.

    In too many places around the world, including in Sweden’s immediate neighbourhood, we are witnessing the consequences of violations of the rules and principles we have all agreed to.

    Since the start of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine in 2014, and with the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has brutally invaded the territory of another UN Member State. This Assembly has strongly and repeatedly condemned Russia’s aggression against Ukraine as a blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter.

    If a member of the Security Council is allowed to reap the fruits of aggression, the harmful impact will not stop with Ukraine. Russia’s leadership will continue its attempts to impose its rule on neighbouring countries.

    The territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states must serve as a basis for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. This was confirmed at the Peace Summit in Switzerland in June, which gathered some 100 delegations from all continents.

    Ukraine has made clear from the start that it wants a peaceful settlement based on the UN Charter. As President Zelensky rightfully said in his speech before this assembly yesterday: “There can be no just peace without Ukraine.” Sweden’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s efforts to restore its sovereignty and territorial integrity will continue for as long as it takes.

    As a direct response to Russia’s full-scale invasion, Sweden and Finland chose to join NATO. For Sweden’s part, this represents a truly historic change, ending 200 years of military non-alignment. This was our decision to take, because it is the right of each state to choose its own security policy path.

    Sweden’s NATO membership gives us a new, crucial platform to defend the fundamental values of our foreign and security policy. We will apply the same principled approach in NATO as we do in the UN, the EU, the OSCE and the Council of Europe. In other words, we will continue to defend international law, democracy, individual freedoms, human rights and gender equality.

    Mr President,

    Sweden has always defended the universal principles of sovereignty and the right to self-determination. In fact, Sweden has consistently supported countries struggling for liberty, independence and democracy – not least in Africa. And we continue to be an engaged partner of African countries. 
    To take just one example, I am deeply concerned about the situation in Sudan. More than 10 million people have been displaced, which roughly corresponds to the entire population of my own country. Safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access, an immediate ceasefire and negotiations ensuring a return to civilian rule are urgently required.

    Therefore, Sudan is among the countries receiving the most humanitarian support from Sweden this year. Sweden remains a key partner and donor of UN humanitarian assistance, as well as of peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts.

    Similarly, Sweden supports the ongoing peace efforts by the United Nations in Yemen, where we will continue to work with our partners for a principled and inclusive humanitarian response. The people of Yemen are looking to the international community for hope, for a way out of humanitarian despair. We must answer that call.

    Mr President,

    We are also faced with the threat of a regional war, the consequences of which no one can predict. My country’s longstanding commitment to peace efforts in the Middle East dates back to 1948 and the efforts of UN mediator Folke Bernadotte. Today, Sweden is one of the largest core donors to UN agencies and other organisations working to mitigate the immense suffering of the civilian population in Gaza. At the same time, Sweden stands up for Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law and demands that the hostages be released.

    Israel is being threatened by Iran and its allies simultaneously on several fronts. Hezbollah’s repeated attacks since October 8th has led to a dangerous military escalation. Sweden fully supports the efforts by the United States, France and others to reach a diplomatic solution. A ceasefire would provide space for reaching a diplomatic settlement consistent with UN Security Council resolution 1701 as well as the implementation of UN Security Council 2735 on a ceasefire in Gaza.

    In the longer term, Sweden – like the EU and the United States – believes in the idea of a two-state solution in which Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace, freedom and democracy.

    Mr President,

    In order to address global challenges, we need to ensure that our aid helps to mobilise additional resources, not least private capital.
    Development assistance alone is not enough to build long-term wealth and welfare.

    It must go hand in hand with democracy, the rule of law, market development, trade, investments and technology transfer. We see that clearly in the countries now leaving poverty behind.

    We must also redouble our efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda. Sweden is one of the world’s most generous donors of development assistance. Through our development assistance, we are accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. To achieve this, strong national ownership in partner countries and a broader approach to development cooperation among donors is needed.

    We must also step up the fight against corruption so that economic growth benefits the whole of society, not just the few.

    Mr President,

    I can only note that women have been underrepresented as speakers this week at the General Debate. Women make up 50 percent of the world’s population, yet less than 10 percent of speakers this week are women. There is a lot of room for improvement in this regard.

    I agree with the Secretary-General that global opposition to gender equality is on the rise. That is why gender equality is a core value in Sweden’s foreign policy.

    So let me say this: countries that stand up for women’s and girls’ rights are not only champions of freedom and human rights. They also benefit from broad labour market participation and economic growth.

    Respect for human rights, providing sexual and reproductive health and rights services, and empowering young girls and women are tangible contributions to advancing gender equality. This is what I want for the future of my daughter and for the daughters of others, too.

    Simply put, our free society must stand up against those who wish to exploit our freedom to restrict the freedom of others. Everyone must be able to live safely and freely, regardless of religious beliefs or personal convictions, regardless of skin colour and regardless of whom they love. To my government, this is of such importance that we have begun work on an action plan for equal rights and opportunities for LGBTQI people.

    The green and digital transition offers vast opportunities in terms of new jobs, increased growth and improved livelihoods. Sweden aims to become climate-neutral by 2045, at the latest. As early movers, we want to show that it is possible to reduce emissions while maintaining economic growth. At the same time, global ambitions on climate action and climate financing must be raised. Here as well, we are increasing our support even further and enhancing its effect, advancing innovative financial models to mobilise more private capital.

    Mr President,

    The many crises in our world today have shed a harsh light on the need for reforms of our multilateral system. We need global governance structures that can withstand the challenges of our time and that are resilient against malevolent attempts to undermine the UN Charter.

    Action – implementation and follow-up – must be our approach as we look forward and take stock of the Summit of the Future and the Pact adopted there.

    The UN Security Council – the body entrusted with the ultimate responsibility to maintain international peace and security – must be effective, transparent and accountable.

    Sweden supports a balanced expansion of the Security Council to better reflect current global political and economic realities. This can be achieved by such means as adding new permanent and non-permanent seats, including for African countries.

    Sweden also supports the ongoing reform processes in multilateral development banks to increase the effectiveness and scale of financing to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and implement the Paris Agreement.

    Another area where strengthened global governance is essential is outer space. Modern societies are becoming more and more dependent on space services and the space environment is becoming increasingly congested and contested.

    Sweden is strongly committed to preventing an arms race in outer space and safeguarding the use of space for peaceful purposes. This includes all states’ full compliance with existing international law, including the Outer Space Treaty. We will continue to promote the development of norms and rules for responsible behaviour in space.

    Together with Zambia, Sweden is proud to have co-facilitated the Global Digital Compact. Through this framework, all Member States have committed to strengthen international cooperation to close digital divides between and within countries and to establish the governance required for a sustainable digital future, including on Artificial Intelligence.

    Rest assured, Sweden will continue to fulfil its responsibility and be an active, engaged and constructive multilateral actor. We will continue to be a close – and demanding – partner to the UN. We will constructively demand more.

    More efficiency, more coherence, more impact, more innovation. This is how we will achieve our shared ambitions for the future, together.

    Mr President,

    This is a moment of major existential challenges. But we must not allow anything to stop us from defending the fundamental principles that form the foundation of this organisation.

    It is true that there are areas where international law needs to be developed to meet new challenges. However, it is equally true that hundreds of millions of people have been lifted out of poverty based on the norms, purposes and principles enshrined in the UN Charter.

    Global health and well-being have reached unprecedented levels. People across the globe are enjoying justice, peace, freedom and prosperity at levels unimaginable to previous generations.

    It is a legacy to be proud of. One that we must all do everything we can to uphold.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on World Tourism Day: “Tourism and Peace” [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    ourism brings people together.

    On this World Tourism Day, we reflect on the profound connection between tourism and peace.  

    Sustainable tourism can transform communities – creating jobs, fostering inclusion and strengthening local economies.

    By valuing and preserving cultural and natural heritage, it can help reduce tensions and nurture peaceful coexistence.  

    Tourism can also promote economic interdependence between neighbours, encouraging cooperation and peaceful development.

    At the same time, tourism broadens horizons.  Every traveller can be an ambassador, engaging respectfully with local populations, recognizing our diversity and shared humanity, and the values that unite us all.

    As we celebrate tourism, let us travel responsibly, build bridges, and promote mutual respect among cultures and nations.

    Together, we can harness the power of tourism to advance peace and prosperity for all.

    ***
    Le tourisme rapproche les peuples.

    La Journée mondiale du tourisme que nous célébrons aujourd’hui est l’occasion de réfléchir au lien profond qui unit le tourisme et la paix.

    Le tourisme durable peut transformer les communautés : il crée des emplois, favorise l’inclusion et renforce les économies locales.

    En conférant de la valeur au patrimoine culturel et naturel, qu’il contribue à préserver, il peut aider à réduire les tensions et à favoriser la coexistence pacifique.

    Il peut également favoriser l’interdépendance économique entre voisins, et ainsi encourager la coopération et le développement pacifique.

    Le tourisme, par ailleurs, élargit les horizons. Toute personne qui voyage peut devenir ambassadrice, interagissant avec respect avec les populations locales, constatant notre diversité, notre humanité commune, ainsi que les valeurs qui nous unissent toutes et tous.

    Alors que nous célébrons le tourisme, appliquons-nous à voyager de manière responsable, à établir des ponts et à promouvoir le respect mutuel entre les cultures et les nations.

    Ensemble, nous pouvons utiliser le pouvoir du tourisme pour faire progresser la paix et la prospérité pour toutes et tous.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Women, Peace, and Security in Cameroon: Bridging gaps for lasting change

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    In Cameroon, the pursuit of gender equality in peace and security is gaining momentum, shaped by vital international frameworks. The United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, adopted in 2000, stands as a cornerstone of this effort, emphasizing the necessity of women’s participation in peace processes and their protection during conflicts. This commitment is echoed in the 2020 Guidelines on Women, Peace and Security from ECOWAS, which call for member states to adopt comprehensive strategies that promote women’s meaningful involvement in security matters.

    At the national level, the Gender Strategy of the National Committee for Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration of Cameroon (2021-2025) crystallizes this resolve, outlining actionable steps to integrate gender perspectives across various policies. It asserts that “ensuring women’s active participation in peace processes not only enhances the effectiveness of interventions but also addresses the specific needs of women in conflict-affected areas.” Such initiatives align with global development indicators that demonstrate inclusive peace processes yield more sustainable outcomes.

    Regionally, Cameroon is benefiting from initiatives spearheaded by the ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture, which has made significant strides in promoting women’s roles in conflict resolution. The 2019 ECOWAS Gender Policy emphasizes the necessity of integrating gender considerations into all peace and security efforts, showcasing successful case studies where women’s involvement has led to more robust peace agreements. The 2020 ECOWAS Annual Report further reinforces this commitment, highlighting that the inclusion of women in peacebuilding is now a priority for regional stability, particularly in areas plagued by violence and insecurity.

    The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has been instrumental in advancing the women, peace, and security agenda in Cameroon. Through its PBF-funded project, IOM has initiated transformative actions that empower women in Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) processes. A significant achievement of this project was the comprehensive mapping of women’s organizations in the Far North region, ensuring that targeted support reaches those directly engaged in peacebuilding.

    Additionally, the project has successfully structured a network of women’s organizations, which facilitates coordination of activities under the National DDR Committee (CNDDR). This initiative not only amplifies women’s voices in peace and security discussions but also fosters sustainable impact by reinforcing their leadership roles within DDR programming. By creating community dialogue forums, IOM has enhanced mediation and conflict resolution efforts at the grassroots level, ensuring that women’s perspectives are integrated into national and regional reintegration processes.

    Moreover, the initiative has placed a strong emphasis on capacity building. Training programs have equipped women’s organizations and community leaders with essential skills in DDR and gender advocacy, ultimately empowering them to play a more active role in shaping their communities. The focus on combating gender-based violence has also been pivotal, as support services for survivors and awareness-raising campaigns have strengthened community resilience.

    Cameroon’s journey toward integrating women into peace and security frameworks is marked by significant achievements, yet challenges persist. The alignment of international, regional, and national commitments has laid a solid foundation, while the IOM’s contributions have been critical in empowering women and amplifying their roles in peace processes. As these efforts continue to unfold, it is essential that all stakeholders remain committed to ensuring that women’s voices are not only heard but actively shape the future of peace and security in Cameroon.

    ***

    For further information, please contact:

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Blinken meets with Kenyan President William Ruto – 3:00 PM

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken meets with Kenyan President William Ruto in New York City, New York, on September 26, 2024.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at http://www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
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    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
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    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrD2fOy9GvA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: National Basketball Association (NBA) Africa Announces Four Prize-Winning Companies at First Startup Accelerator Demo Day

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

    NEW YORK, United States of America, September 26, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Festival Coins (Nigeria), Salubata (Nigeria), HustleSasa (Kenya) and UBR VR (Egypt) Win Top Prizes, including Financial Support and Mentorship; Paystack Payments Ltd., Kuramo Capital Management and Nigerian University of Technology and Management Join Demo Day as NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator’s First Official Partners (www.NBA.com).

    NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum today announced the four prize-winning startup businesses from “NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator” (http://apo-opa.co/3ZLmNoC), which NBA Africa launched in April 2024 to support the continent’s technology ecosystem and the next generation of African entrepreneurs.  The four winning businesses – Festival Coins (Nigeria), Salubata (Nigeria), HustleSasa (Kenya) and UBR VR (Egypt) – will be awarded financial support and mentorship, including an opportunity to participate in workshops and development programs facilitated by NBA Africa or its partners. 

    The 10 finalists, shortlisted from more than 700 early-stage African startup businesses that applied to participate, pitched their products to a panel of international industry leaders at a Demo Day at the NBA headquarters in New York City yesterday. The judges included Accelerate Africa Co-Founder and CEO Iyinoluwa Aboyeji; NBA Assistant General Counsel, Technology, Software Licensing and Digital Platforms Franciscus Diaba; Managing Director, Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Rwanda Crystal Rugege; Chegg Inc. Executive Chairman Dan Rosensweig; and Partner at Development Partners International Joanne Yoo.  NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also delivered opening remarks and met the 10 finalists.

    Below are the four winning businesses:

    1. Festival Coins (Nigeria), an event technology company that offers a customizable, no-code event registration and ticketing platform called Tix Africa for events in Nigeria and Ghana, won the first-place prize and $50,000. 
    2. Salubata (Nigeria), a company that creates modular shoes repurposed from plastic waste to reduce the global carbon footprint through its environmentally friendly products, won the second-place prize and $40,000. 
    3. HustleSasa (Kenya), which provides live event services that support payment processing, attendee check-in, merchandise sales, customer data management, influencer tracking, and more, won the third-place prize and $30,000.
    4. UBR VR (Egypt), which delivers state-of-the-art, fully immersive, in-person virtual reality (VR) experiences across Egypt, won the fourth-place prize and $20,000.

    The six other finalists each received a $10,000 prize. 

    The Demo Day was supported by three official partners: Paystack Payment Ltd. (http://apo-opa.co/3XHn75j), Kuramo Capital Management (http://apo-opa.co/3ZGroJ2) and Nigerian University of Technology and Management (NUTM) (http://apo-opa.co/3XHn1dX).  

    “Congratulations to all of the incredibly talented entrepreneurs who participated in this year’s program, with special recognition to the 10 finalists and four distinguished winners,” said NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi.  “These outstanding companies have demonstrated the creativity, drive and determination to shape the future of sport in Africa and will help the continent take its rightful place on the world stage.  We look forward to following their successes for many years to come.”

    “NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator” is open to early-stage startups in Africa that develop solutions in event management and ticketing, youth development, AI, and digital marketing. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Cameroon: Civil society members arbitrarily detained in Garoua must be immediately released

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The Cameroonian authorities must immediately release three supporters of the association Pouvoir au Peuple Camerounais (Power to the People of Cameroon – PPC) and their relatives arbitrarily arrested and detained for a fortnight and put an end to arbitrary arrests and detention in the country, Amnesty International said today.

    On 9 September, three supporters of the PPC, Moustapha Tizi, Mohamadou Ballo and Ibrahim Oumarou were arrested allegedly for wearing t-shirts bearing the name of the organization in the town of Figuil, in the Mayo-Louti department in the North region. Hapsatou Issa, the sister of a PPC spokesperson, was also arrested on the same day. The PPC, a youth organization founded in August 2024, calls for a regime change.

    “A year ahead of the presidential election in which President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982, plans to run, arbitrary arrests and detention of people perceived as critical against the regime are multiplying. The visit to Cameroon at the beginning of August by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, who cited ‘serious concerns over restrictions on the freedom of expression and association and the right to peaceful assembly’, has not altered this trend,” said Fabien Offner, researcher at Amnesty International’s regional office for West and Central Africa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Suspect to appear in court for ongoing Steinhoff case

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, September 26, 2024

    A suspect in the ongoing Steinhoff investigation will be appearing in the Pretoria Specialised Crimes Court later today following his arrest this morning by the Hawks’ Serious Economic Offences Unit.

    The arrest emanates from an ongoing investigation into Steinhoff, where in November 2017, the then Chief Executive Officer, the late Markus Jooste, is said to have shared information on the selling of Steinhoff shares before they fell. 

    READ | Those who act with impunity will be brought to book

    Allegations are that the suspect received a tip-off from Jooste in order to sell his shares before their price dropped due to irregularities in the Steinhoff financial statements.

    The suspect in 2017 instructed that over 39 000 of Steinhoff shares be sold.  The suspect knew that Jooste was Steinhoff CEO and, by virtue of his employ, had inside information at the time.

    The 79-year-old suspect is charged with three counts of the Contravention of the Financial Markets Act (insider trading). His arrest follows the arrest of Stephanus Johannes Grobler, who has since been released on bail and is due back in court on the 4 October 2024.

    READ | Former Steinhoff director appears in court for fraud, racketeering  – SAnews.gov.za

     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA’s G20 Presidency to focus more on Global South and African issues, says Lamola

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa’s G20 Presidency will be centred more on the interests of the Global South agenda, especially Africa, says International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola. 

    Preparations are underway for South Africa’s G20 Presidency and hosting the G20 Summit in 2025. South Africa is expected to take over Chair of the G20 from December 1 this year, from Brazil. 

    Lamola announced that South Africa’s theme will focus on solidarity, equality and sustainable development. 

    “This theme speaks to the developmental priorities of the Global South, particularly, the African continent, which is now fully represented with the admission of the African Union (AU) in the G20,” he told delegates during the Troika high-level address at the United Nations (UN). 

    The G20 (or the Group 20) comprises 19 States, plus the European Union and the AU as of this year – bringing together the world’s major and systemically important economies. 

    The G20 operates a Troika system of hosting, where the Troika consists of the past, present, and next Presidencies. 

    Brazil’s Presidency is also in a Global South Troika – India-Brazil-South Africa. 

    Lamola stressed that South Africa will ensure that the G20 provides strategic direction towards establishing a “more equitable, representative and fit-for-purpose international order”.

    According to the Minister, the theme will also confirm South Africa’s intention to build on the efforts and successes of the G20 Presidencies of Indonesia, India and Brazil. 

    He believes this will ensure that the needs, interests and aspirations of the developing economies of the Global South, and Africa especially, drive the overall G20 agenda going forward.

    According to the Minister, South Africa’s overarching theme will also zoom in on the country’s priorities. These include accelerating efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the objectives of Agenda 2063 of the AU and addressing the critical issue of debt vulnerability of many countries of the global South. 

    The country will also focus on creating consensus around reform of the International Financial Architecture (IFA) and the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs). 

    “This is critical to ensure that they become fit for purpose to adequately address sustainable development and transboundary challenges,” Lamola explained. 

    In addition, the emphasis will also be on combating climate change, which has devastating consequences for food security in developing countries.

    South Africa also hopes to address issues of predatory mining by some countries and corporations, in the quest for Africa’s raw materials and critical minerals. 

    “South Africa will take forward the outcomes of the report of the UN Secretary’s Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals,” Lamola said, adding that strengthening the Multilateral Trading System was also key.

    The other key issues the nation will advance include industrialisation, employment and inequality, food security, the blue economy and artificial intelligence. 

    Lamola took the time to commend Brazil President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s call, as the G20 President, for the reinvigoration of multilateralism, and the reform of global governance institutions to make it more representative and inclusive.

    “We further thank Brazil for its innovative leadership in calling for this G20 meeting and inviting all UN Members.

    “This meeting today and its call to action further demonstrates the collective global solidarity in addressing current and future global challenges. South Africa will carry forward the momentum laid by Brazil on the reform of the multilateral institutions,” Lamola said. 

    Meanwhile, he said that South Africa’s G20 Presidency will mark the end of the first cycle of G20 Presidencies. 

    “We intend to undertake a review of the first cycle of G20 Presidencies. This is critical to ensure implementation. Brazil can count on us to maintain the momentum they’ve started I thank you for your attention,” he added. 

    President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation to Brazil as the current President of the G20 for convening this meeting.

    The President also commended the excellent way Brazil has been steering the work of the G20 during its Presidency.  – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Egypt: Ensure Alaa Abdel Fattah is not detained after completing length of unjust prison term

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Egyptian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Egyptian-British activist Aala Abdel Fattah who will have completed the length of his unjust five-year prison sentence in three days on 29 September, said Amnesty International today.

    In reprisal for his activism, Egyptian authorities last arrested Alaa Abdel Fattah on 29 September 2019, and subsequently, following a grossly unfair trial, sentenced him to five years in prison on charges including “spreading false news.” There is a risk that the authorities will refuse to release the prominent political activist, despite having served the full five years in prison, by refusing to count time spent in pre-trial detention as part of his prison sentence already served.

    “Alaa Abdel Fattah has spent most of the last decade being repeatedly arrested and unjustly imprisoned simply for peacefully exercising his human rights. He is a prisoner of conscience – he should never have been forced to spend a single minute behind bars. The prospect that the authorities could further extend his unlawful imprisonment instead of releasing him is appalling,” said Mahmoud Shalaby, Amnesty International’s Egypt Researcher. 

    “Egyptian authorities have a dreadful track record of indefinitely detaining political dissidents by concocting new reasons to keep them locked up. If the authorities fail to release Alaa Abdel Fattah this would further compound the cruelty and injustice he has already suffered in custody. The Egyptian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release him and allow him to reunite with his loved ones at long last.”

    The authorities may also seek to extend his arbitrary detention by bringing fresh charges against him – Egyptian authorities have a track record of indefinitely detaining individuals imprisoned for political reasons by bringing new bogus identical or similar charges, even after a court has ordered their release or they have completed their sentence; an abusive practice known as “rotation”.

    For years Alaa Abdel Fattah was detained in deplorable conditions and security officials subjected him to torture and other ill-treatment in custody. Following a public outcry, he was transferred to Wadi al-Natroun Prison in May 2022 where his health and detention conditions improved. It was only recently that authorities finally allowed him access to reading material as well as television and written correspondence.

    However, prison authorities have continued to deny him access to fresh air and sunlight for the past five years,  only allowing him to exercise in an indoor hall. Authorities also continue to deny him access to his lawyer as well as to consular visits from the British authorities.

    On 20 December 2021, an Emergency State Security Court (ESSC) convicted Alaa Abdel Fattah on charges including “spreading false news” and sentenced him to five years in prison following a grossly unfair trial in reprisal for his activism. Human rights lawyer Mohamed Baker and blogger Mohamed Radwan “Oxygen” were also convicted on similar charges and sentenced to four years in prison. On 19 July 2023, following sustained campaigning for his release, Mohamed Baker received a presidential pardon after nearly four years of arbitrary detention.

    Background

    Alaa Abdel Fattah is a prominent political activist and government critic who has been targeted for his role in the 2011 uprising. He is among thousands of individuals who continue to be arbitrarily detained without legal basis in Egypt solely for exercising their human rights and/ or following proceedings violating fair trial rights. 

    Since President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s reactivation of the Presidential Pardons Committee (PPC) in April 2022, the Egyptian authorities released hundreds of individuals held for political reasons, including prominent activists, but Alaa Abdel Fattah was excluded from this process. Egyptian authorities continued to carry out arrests of actual or perceived critics amid an unrelenting crackdown on dissent.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: KZN teams on standby ahead of predicted adverse weather

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has announced that highly efficient and dedicated teams are on standby with an expected drop in temperatures later this week, with a possibility of snow.

    While the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has not issued an official weather warning, the weather service predicts the possibility of snow over the high lying areas of the Western Cape from 29 September 2024, which will spread into the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal by 30 September 2024.

    Addressing a media briefing on Thursday, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma said the Road Incident Management Systems (RIMS) led by South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) comprising of all key role players on the national, provincial, and municipal road networks were putting together a consolidated plan.

    “They are identifying areas where joint operations and coordination will be established – covering all notorious roads and areas identified from past experiences. 

    “The department’s Road Traffic Inspectorate is establishing a satellite centre on top of Van Reenen’s Pass to ensure quick action and road closure to mitigate against people getting trapped in the snow,” the MEC said.

    This satellite centre will start operating on Saturday afternoon and operate on a 12-hour shift.

    Traffic law enforcement officials are already involved in the coordination of possible road closures and observation of major routes in consultation with the N3 Toll Concession. 

    “The focus is on the N3 between Harrismith, Tugela Toll, R617 between Kokstad and Underberg, N2 Ingeli and N3 Mooi River, and others. We wish to indicate that the team will also be responsible for escorting trucks and vehicles to ensure that there is no congestion on the road. 

    “However, members of the public and motorists are urged to reschedule or postpone their journeys in anticipation of any eventuality. Prevention is better than cure.

    “Motor graders are currently being sharpened to respond with … urgency to remove any snow before accumulating on the road. More than 10 graders will be stationed in identified routes to ensure that our response is faster,” the MEC said.

    The province has 21 graders which will be on standby as part of strengthening prevention measures.

    “On Wednesday, we interacted with SAWS. They informed us that KwaZulu-Natal will be affected by snowfall from Monday into Tuesday. The areas that are expected to be affected include Ladysmith, Underberg, Drakensberg as well as Giant Castle, and other high-ground area.

    “In addition, they emphasised that, in all likelihood, snowfall will stop on Tuesday but will be followed by rainfall in various parts of the province, including Durban and other coastline areas,” Duma said.

    The MEC said the provincial government has started engaging with key stakeholders to ensure that everyone works together to avoid any crisis and ensure the safety of road users.

    “We have continuous engagements with road freight industry stakeholders such as operators – trucking companies – companies that are managing and supplying drivers.

    “The South African National Taxi Council and bus councils, bus and truck associations are key stakeholders as we strengthen our road safety measures. We do not want to leave out port operators and the entire value chain of fast-moving consumer goods,” Duma said.

    The provincial government has assigned engineers in consultation with SANRAL to look at the impact of the recent heavy snowfall on the road infrastructure.

    “The truck congestion on N3 last weekend compels us to intensify our plans aimed at modernisation and development of rail transport – both freight and passenger.

    “Working with the Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and other main roleplayers, as KwaZulu-Natal we believe that we must ensure that we deploy wagons to move cargo from road to rail, with a specific focus on certain goods, such as coal.

    “In addition, we want to improve rail services in the province so that it could serve as the backbone of public transport while at the same time recognising the huge challenges currently facing commuter rail services in KwaZulu-Natal and throughout the country,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: David Olusoga’s new book joins the struggle to make Black history mainstream

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jenny Woodley, Senior Lecturer in Modern American History, Nottingham Trent University

    For decades, Black history in the UK has been siloed from the mainstream, as if incidental to the nation’s history. Black History Month in October is dedicated to celebrating Black heritage, but the rest of the year, it feels largely neglected and ignored. Public historian and broadcaster David Olusoga, is at the forefront of efforts to integrate Black history into our national story.

    His latest book, Black History for Every Day of the Year, co-created with two of his siblings, Yinka and Kemi, is another contribution to that work. This attractive and substantial book has an entry for each calendar day detailing an event, person, place, or theme associated with black history.

    There are biographies of artists, musicians, activists, politicians, filmmakers, writers, and scientists. We learn about legal cases, such as Brown v Board of Education, when racial segregation in US schools was ruled unconstitutional, and the Mansfield Judgment, a 1772 British ruling which decided the fate of enslaved African James Somerset, and was used by abolitionists in their campaign to end slavery.

    We get to see important objects, like the Benin Bronzes, a collection of sculptures created by skilled artisans in the Kingdom of Benin – now part of Nigeria – which were looted by British forces in 1897. They were then given to institutions like the British Museum, where some are still on display.

    The book narrates histories of violence and injustice, from centuries of enslavement and brutal colonial rule, to South Africa’s Sharpeville massacre when, in March 1960, 69 people protesting apartheid laws were killed by the police.

    The tragedy of the 1981 New Cross fire in south London, where 14 young Black people were killed in a suspected arson attack on a house party, is recounted as is the racist murder of teenager Stephen Lawrence, also in south London in 1993.

    It tells stories of resistance and resilience, such as the uprising of enslaved people in Jamaica in 1760, known as Tacky’s revolt, and the 1961 Freedom Rides, when Black and white students challenged racial segregation on American buses and were met with violence.

    In Britain it examines the Bristol bus boycott of 1963, a four-month-long protest against the bus company’s refusal to hire Black or Asian drivers. Many of the events and names will be familiar to some readers but there is likely to be plenty that is new and novel.

    It is not a book which invites intensive reading, but rather the joy is to dip in and out, finding connections between entries, dates and themes. The popularity of social media “On This Day” posts suggests many readers will enjoy connecting past with present.

    At the end of the volume, as well as a glossary of terms, are 12 timelines which place some of the entries into a more cohesive – though potentially more limiting – narrative.

    For example, they outline Black resistance to slavery, abolitionist movements, and histories of imperialism and colonialism. Both here and throughout the book readers are pointed to connections between the entries. The text is enhanced by beautiful illustrations at the beginning of each month, which explore objects, places and themes associated with the entries, and the timelines are likewise creatively illustrated.

    Black History for Every Day is educational and informative, but it is written with a deft touch and its format, along with the illustrations and inclusion of photographs, mean it is also engaging and accessible.

    The scope of the histories included is global and many are transnational, showing the connections between the struggles and stories of people of African descent across the world. However, the majority of entries are associated with British and US history. This is not surprising given the authors’ research interests and the likely market for the book.

    While it is apparent that an attempt has been made to be geographically and chronologically diverse, around a third of the 366 entries deal with US history, suggesting that our understanding of Black history is still often dominated by its American iterations.

    The book is not attempting to break new ground. The timeline of the US civil rights movement, for example, begins with the Supreme Court ruling to desegregate education in 1954 and includes the acts of nonviolent direct action which have dominated the widely accepted “master narrative” of the era.

    However, the book does at least go slightly beyond the usual cut-off point to include the Black Panther Party’s breakfast program, which addressed poverty and hunger in the Black community between 1969 and 1980, and the murder of Black Panther deputy chairman Fred Hampton, who was killed in 1969 at the age of 21.

    The entry for Martin Luther King Jr. claims he organised the Montgomery bus boycott, ignoring the contributions of black women who were the driving force behind the movement. This is somewhat modified by the entry for activist Rosa Parks, which acknowledges the work of the Women’s Political Council in Montgomery.

    The book’s purpose is not to be comprehensive; it cannot be, given its breadth. Rather, each entry is intended to serve as an introduction. The authors explain they hope people will be inspired to find out more after reading it.

    Taken together, the daily entries narrate centuries of discrimination, violence and injustice against people of African descent. But they also tell stories of Black resilience, innovation, talent and achievement. The Olusogas’ book is published in time for Black History month in the UK, but it makes the case for engaging with black history beyond a single month every year.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Jenny Woodley has received funding from the British Academy and the Leverhulme Trust.

    – ref. David Olusoga’s new book joins the struggle to make Black history mainstream – https://theconversation.com/david-olusogas-new-book-joins-the-struggle-to-make-black-history-mainstream-238825

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Bishop Street Underwriters Makes Strategic Equity Investment into Verve Services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bishop Street Underwriters (“Bishop Street”), a multi-boutique insurance platform owned by RedBird Capital Partners (“RedBird”), today announced it has made a strategic equity investment in Verve Services, LLC (“Verve”), a leading, full-service auto insurance managing general agency (“MGA”). This partnership marks Bishop Street’s entry into Specialty Private Passenger Auto. Through this equity investment, Verve is positioned for continued innovation and accelerated growth in the auto insurance industry.

    “Dan and his team have built Verve into a differentiated passenger auto insurance MGA. They have an exceptional platform that combines advanced analytics with a deep understanding of the market, which drives superior outcomes and has supported their position as a leader in the specialty auto insurance space,” said Chad Levine, Chief Executive Officer of Bishop Street.

    “Verve’s focus and commitment to utilizing data and analytics to deliver industry-leading loss ratios that significantly outperform industry results for its insurance and reinsurance partners is perfectly aligned with our strategic vision at Bishop Street. We are excited to build on this momentum and drive value creation for all of Verve’s partners,” said Chad Weber, President of Bishop Street.

    “While Bishop Street is predominantly focused on building a diversified platform of commercial-lines MGAs, we will be opportunistic as it relates to differentiated personal-lines MGA businesses, like Verve. Dan and the rest of the Verve team have built a great business, and we look forward to partnering with them for their next stage of growth,” said Mike Zabik, Partner of RedBird Capital.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Bishop Street as a key strategic partner. They are the ideal fit for the next stage of Verve’s growth,” said Dan Lazarek, Chief Executive Officer of Verve Services, LLC. “This partnership brings invaluable expertise from a company with a proven track record in both insurance infrastructure and data-driven AI. We look forward to revolutionizing the auto insurance industry together.”

    About Bishop Street
    Bishop Street Underwriters, a RedBird Capital portfolio company, seeks to partner with Managing General Agents (“MGAs”) as well as niche underwriting teams. Bishop Street aims to combine their best-in-class (re)insurance executive team’s vision with RedBird’s strong track record, expertise, and network in the financial services sector to build a differentiated platform that is uniquely positioned to capitalize on secular growth tailwinds in the industry. For more information, please go to http://www.bishopstreetuw.com.

    About RedBird Capital Partners
    RedBird Capital Partners is a private investment firm that builds high-growth companies with strategic capital solutions for founders and entrepreneurs. The firm currently manages $10 billion in assets on behalf of a global group of blue chip institutional and family office investors. Founded in 2014 by Gerry Cardinale, RedBird integrates sophisticated private equity investing with a hands-on business building mandate that focuses on three core industry verticals – Financial Services, Sports and Media & Entertainment. Over his 30-year investment career, Cardinale has partnered with founders and entrepreneurs to build some of the most iconic growth companies in their respective industries. For more information, please go to http://www.redbirdcap.com.

    About Verve Services, LLC
    Verve is a full-service auto insurance managing general agency (MGA) built on a culture of transparency, trust and faith. The company has developed a unique platform that identifies, filters, underwrites, acquires, and services profitable, low-frequency private passenger auto customers. By utilizing a scalable technology and distribution platform, Verve is transforming the auto insurance industry. The company analyzes both internal and external data, using advanced predictive analytics to uncover profitable niches within the $316 billion private passenger auto insurance market. Through its data-driven approach, Verve consistently exceeds industry benchmarks, delivering superior underwriting profits while providing exceptional value and significant returns to its insurance and reinsurance partners. This has established Verve as a trusted leader in the evolving auto insurance landscape.   For more information, please go to http://www.goverve.com.

    Media Contacts

    Bishop Street
    Dan Gagnier
    Gagnier Communications
    redbird@gagnierfc.com
    646.569.5897

    Verve
    Kimberly Hampton
    Verve Communications
    kimberly.hampton@verveinsurance.com
    404-291-9632

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Hosts the Inaugural Blockchain4Her Awards at SheFi Summit

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading crypto exchange and web3 company, hosted its inaugural Blockchain4Her Awards at the SheFi Summit in Singapore on September 17, 2024, with five winners announced across two categories. The event saw over 1,000 participants from around the world, with 100+ nominations received for the Awards. The event was supported by 12 major partners, including tier-1 media BeInCrypto, Crypto.News, The Coin Republic, Input Communications, Genzio, as well as leading community bodies like the Women in Web3 Switzerland.

    The Blockchain4Her Awards is an initiative that celebrates and promotes women in the blockchain industry. Launched as part of Bitget’s broader Blockchain4Her program, it addresses the gender disparity in the blockchain space, where female-led startups receive only a small fraction of total funding. The awards feature two main categories – the Rising Female in Blockchain Award and the Innovative Web3 Female Entrepreneur Award.

    ​​Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget, delivered a keynote at the SheFi summit where she exclaimed Bitget’s commitment to supporting women in blockchain. With the $10 million Blockchain4Her initiative, Bitget is taking steps towards empowerment by providing “role models, mentorship, networking, and targeted support, we’re ensuring that more women can step into leadership roles in the blockchain space,” said Chen. 

    Bitget announced three winners for the ‘Rising Female in Blockchain Award’ category – Alexandra Nicorici, Gesa Schneider, and Rebecca Matsumura.

    Alexandra Nicorici is the founder and host of the OOO podcast, a popular Web3 marketing podcast that connects marketing professionals to leading founders who are building transformative communities and products in the industry. 

    “Two years ago, if someone had told me I would receive a Rising Woman in Web3 Award, I wouldn’t have believed them. I was struggling a lot, in an industry that is not only a boys club, but not very mature yet,“ said Alexandra. “Today, I am more proud of myself and all the amazing women in Web3 who are rising, being present and contributing to this amazing industry.” Through her influence, Alexandra has helped several Web3 and crypto startups grow and drive valuable partnerships over the years. 

    Gesa Schneider is a renowned Devcon Scholar at the Ethereum Foundation and an active advocate at The Female Factor – one of the largest global communities for female leaders. “To be recognized as a Rising Female in Blockchain is such a great honor,” said Gesa during the Blockchain4Her Awards. “It validates my work to pioneer Web3 innovations for a sustainable future.”

    The third winner is Rebecca Matsumura, an Associate Attorney at Fenwick & West. For almost a decade, Rebecca has provided legal guidance to blockchain and fintech firms, helping them manage compliance in the complex regulatory landscape. She is pioneering a new generation of women in law who want to step into the dynamic legal space of Web3 and crypto. Through this award, Bitget celebrates her transformative contribution to increasing inclusivity and openness in this niche sector. 

    The award for Innovative Web3 Female Entrepreneur went to Maika Isogawa, the co-founder and CEO of Webacy – one of the fastest-growing blockchain security suites. Tech and security have been historically quite underrepresented sectors for women, and the gap is more concerning in the Web3 industry. However, leaders like Maika have been actively inspiring change in this sector. Maika was also listed among the Forbes 30 under 30. 

    The winners were decided by a panel of four judges, including the CEO of Bitget Gracy Chen, the co-founder of Hacken Yevheniia Broshevan, leading venture capitalist Tess Hau, and the founder of SheFi Maggie Love Wu. 

    The awards are supported by a $10 million commitment from Bitget to promote diversity and inclusivity in the sector. The support loop for Blockchain4Her focuses on Elevating, Empowering, Educating, and Embracing women in blockchain. Bitget aims to ensure that women in Web3 have the appropriate resources, opportunities, and representation needed to succeed in their role.

    The Blockchain4Her campaign provided scholarships for educational programs like SheFi’s 8-week blockchain course, mentorship opportunities, and participation in major industry events. The overall aim is to build a gender-diverse ecosystem where women play a significant role in driving technological advancements and leadership in blockchain​. As a part of the campaign, Bitget is also establishing an alumni group, where female entrepreneurs and leaders can exchange ideas and build networks to grow their careers.  

    After the success of the campaign at SheFi, Bitget is set to host various Blockchain4Her events in different regions. 

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 45 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading, AI bot and other trading solutions. Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more. Bitget inspires individuals to embrace crypto through collaborations with credible partners, including being the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Professional Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM, as well as a global partner of Olympic Athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team).

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

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

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices may fluctuate and experience price volatility. Only invest what you can afford to lose. The value of your investment may be impacted and it is possible that you may not achieve your financial goals or be able to recover your principal investment. You should always seek independent financial advice and consider your own financial experience and financial standing. Past performance is not a reliable measure of future performance. Bitget shall not be liable for any losses you may incur. Nothing here shall be construed as financial advice. For more information, see our Terms of Use.

    Contact

    PR team
    media@bitget.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ministerial event Feminist Foreign Policy Plus (FFP+) group Address by Jean-Noël Barrot Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs (25.09.24)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    Ministers,

    Representatives of the United Nations agencies, international organizations and civil society organizations,

    Executive Director of UN Women,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Our countries have chosen to officially adopt feminist foreign policy.

    By doing so, they pledged to make the rights of women and gender equality a priority.

    Because feminist foreign policy is a political commitment: to combat violence against women and girls all over the world; to defend and, as decided in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, make gender equality effective; and to reaffirm and promote the universality of the rights of women and girls everywhere that they are under threat.

    And it is on the basis of these principles that I will have the honour and pleasure of welcoming you to France in 2025 as agreed for the next Feminist Foreign Policy Conference.

    2025 will also mark the 30th anniversary of two key documents in the advancement of the rights of women and girls around the world: the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. We must continue to enforce this reference framework and go even further.

    That is why France enshrined the freedom to choose an abortion in its Constitution on 8 March 2024. Guaranteeing sexual and reproductive health and rights means respecting women’s right to control over their own bodies. We must protect that right from any regression, and it must remain an absolute priority for our group. We invite all States to give the right to abortion the highest level of legal protection.

    Going further also means taking into account the challenges presented by the rapid development of new digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.

    In 2023, France launched the Laboratory for Women’s Rights Online, an international platform created to fight online violence against women and girls. By doing so, we are building the first forum of this kind, which will be both a space for dialogue and an incubator for projects.

    The upcoming AI Action Summit, set to take place in Paris in February 2025, will also be an opportunity to address gender bias and barriers to the rights of women and girls online.

    This autumn, France – with the Netherlands – will present a draft resolution to combat online violence against women and girls to the General Assembly. They are the primary victims, and it is time that the international community tackles this issue.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Violence is also perpetrated against women and girls in the context of war. We cannot resign ourselves to what is happening in Afghanistan, where the Taliban’s policy of segregation is erasing women from society. We have made respect for the rights of women a clear condition for political dialogue to resume. That condition must be met. We should not, cannot, abandon Afghan women and girls. It would be a moral failure.

    Nor can we omit to condemn in the strongest terms the barbaric sexual violence committed by Hamas and other terrorist groups on 7 October last year.

    And we cannot forget the lives of Yazidi women, shattered by the genocidal terrorism of Daesh.

    Relentlessly fighting sexual and gender-based violence and impunity will remain central to our work. France was the first to support the fund launched by Nadia Murad and Doctor Mukwege, and supported the first International Conference of Prosecutors on Accountability for Conflict-Related Sexual Violence at The Hague in March. We will continue to work to support female victims of sexual violence, as we are doing in Ukraine for the victims of Russian atrocities, and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    The international community should not limit its understanding of feminism to the protection of victims. I mentioned the upcoming anniversary of the Beijing Declaration next year; I now want to highlight the role of women as drivers of change for peace, sustainable development and prosperity. Involving women and girls in decision-making processes is both a moral imperative and a condition for our prosperity.

    We therefore support the draft general recommendation No. 4 of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) on the equal and inclusive representation of women in decision-making systems. It is a major step forward. I also commend the work of the Committee and thank Minister Nicole Ameline for her enlightening presentation.

    As we know, women play a crucial role in responding to crises and, together, ensuring peace and security. With this in mind, I hope to one day address a female Secretary-General of the United Nations, as well as her envoy for the political participation of women and the Women, Peace and Security Agenda.

    I would like to reiterate that France supports the voices of those who defend these rights, often risking their lives, all over the world. The Support Fund for Feminist Organizations, a French initiative, is the world’s leading fund in terms of financing and geographic scope. I am committed to enshrining it in the long term.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    In conclusion, I would like to express France’s support for all women and girls whose voices have been stifled and silenced, and whose freedoms and rights have been denied and trampled. France stands with you, and with them.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SUDAN – El Fasher: humanitarian situation out of control

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Khartoum (Agenzia Fides) – Five months of siege and fighting have worn down the population of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur. The city is considered the last remaining stronghold of the Sudanese armed forces in a region (see Fides, 5/5/2024) that is now almost entirely controlled by the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of General Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo.More than 1.5 million people are at risk in the city, which has been under siege since April-May, and in the nearby Zamzam refugee camp, 15 km south of El Fasher, where about 260,000 children live and where the humanitarian situation is increasingly deteriorating.Soldiers from a division of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and militiamen from several local armed groups fighting the RSF have barricaded themselves in the city. A coalition of heterogeneous forces united only by their common opposition to the RSF, which has so far managed to hold out against Dagalo’s forces.Last week, the town was hit by a fierce Rapid Support Forces offensive that was narrowly repelled, with heavy casualties on both sides, as shown by satellite photos showing recently dug mounds of earth likely to indicate the creation of mass graves.Faced with the deteriorating humanitarian situation in El Fasher, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (a body set up in 1987 by the then African Union Organization, now the African Union) has issued a call for a cessation of fighting. “The African Commission condemns in the strongest terms the atrocities being committed against the civilian population in the context of the ongoing fighting in El Fasher, which seriously endanger the hundreds of thousands of refugees who have found refuge in the town,” it said in a statement on September 21. “The African Commission on Human Rights urges the parties to the conflict to cease all acts of violence against civilians and to fully respect the principles of discrimination, necessity and proportionality under international humanitarian law.”The “Forum of International Non-Governmental Organizations in Sudan” (Sudan INGO Forum) has, for its part, appealed to the international community at the UN General Assembly to intervene to end the conflict in Sudan that broke out in April 2023. “Sudan is experiencing a man-made food crisis of historic proportions, largely caused by the actions and decisions of the parties to the conflict in violation of international humanitarian law,” the non-governmental organizations said. “As of August 2024, more than 25 million people in Sudan are at risk of acute food insecurity and at least 755,000 people could die of catastrophic famine in the coming months if the international community does not act urgently and decisively,” it said.More than 10 million people have fled their homes since the conflict began in April 2023, making Sudan the world’s largest internal displacement crisis, affecting more than 5 million children and over 2 million people who have fled across borders to neighboring countries. Some health facilities report five child deaths per day. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 26/9/2024)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Assistance Helps Liberia Avert Radiological Emergency

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    A recovered Cs-137 radioactive source was safely transferred to this ISO container during an IAEA Fact Finding Mission to Monrovia, Liberia in May 2024. (Photo: F.Baciu/IAEA)

    Liberia has moved to fast track its accession to nuclear safety treaties, after IAEA experts helped prevent a radiological incident from shutting down the country’s main hospital. 

    In May 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia reached out to the IAEA’s Incident and Emergency Centre (IEC) for assistance after staff detected an unidentified radioactive source in a maintenance room at the John F. Kennedy Medical Centre in Monrovia. 

    If the source had not been managed swiftly, it could have led to significant disruptions, adversely impacting thousands of patients. 

    The IAEA developed a plan and deployed a fact-finding mission team comprising the IEC response system coordinator and a disused sealed sources specialist, who arrived in Monrovia on 21 May. By the following day, the source was secured and the hospital could continue its work uninterrupted.   

    Liberia’s request for assistance was made pursuant to the operational arrangements under the framework of the Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency, which sets out an international framework for co-operation between State Parties  and the IAEA to facilitate prompt support. Liberia was not a party to this convention at the time but joined it and five other IAEA legal instruments at the IAEA 68th General Conference.

    “The Assistance Convention does not mandate that only parties may receive international assistance. Emergencies are events which overwhelm available resources for response. Even a relatively minor event can become an emergency in the absence of the appropriate resources and training,” explained Florian Baciu, IAEA Response System Coordinator in the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. “International assistance is therefore available to any State which requires it, to mitigate the impact of a nuclear or radiological emergency on their territory.”  

    In Monrovia, the IAEA mission’s objective was to prevent the temporary closure of the JFK Medical Centre, an essential facility for the country’s healthcare. The radioactive source, identified as Caesium-137, is an artificially produced radionuclide widely used in medical and other fields. The team surmised that the source belonged to a disused brachytherapy machine. Brachytherapy is a type of internal radiation therapy that uses radiation sources to treat tumours. The machine had likely been placed in the hospital’s scrap metal facility after it was decommissioned. This incident highlighted the need for proper handling and disposal of radioactive sources in the country, especially for disused medicine equipment. 

    During the mission, the IAEA team conducted a detailed radiation survey, confirmed the isotope was Caesium-137, and safely removed the source from a stormwater drain in the former scrap metal facility – which is now the hospital’s maintenance room. The source was then secured in a shielding container provided by the Liberian Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and transported to a secure storage location. The IAEA team also completed a radiological survey of the area and concluded that it was extremely unlikely that anyone had been exposed to levels of radiation high enough to cause health problems. This rapid response helped to alleviate anxiety in members of the public and the hospital staff, and to address misinformation about the potential hazards to health as a result of the incident. 

    The Executive Director of the EPA, Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo said: “The prompt assistance provided by the IAEA demonstrates the Agency’s commitment to building nuclear safety frameworks and supporting Member States in assessing and addressing their unique needs and urgencies. The mission did not only address the immediate concerns of the Liberia Government, but also underscored a proactive approach to preventing small issues from escalating to bigger problems. The quick response by the IAEA during our time of need further highlights the broader scope of the Agency’s work which transcends beyond emergency response to encompass comprehensive assistance.”  

    Baciu agreed: “The collaboration with the local authorities was seamless, and their proactive approach facilitated this swift action. Our goal is to provide countries with support to ensure that they are able to respond effectively to any type of emergency, irrespective of scale.  We also encourage more States to join the IAEA’s Assistance Convention, as this allows for quick and formal communication channels to receive assistance and support promptly.” 

    IAEA Fact Finding Mission team members conducting a radiation survey and preparing equipment at the JFK Medical Centre during the recovery of a Cs-137 radioactive source from a storm water sump in the hospital’s maintenance room. (Photo: Liberian Environmental Protection Agency).

    The IAEA and the Liberian EPA will work together to define ways in which the IAEA can help ensure that all radioactive sources in the country are used and disposed of safely and securely. Among the projects under discussion are assistance to establish a national registry of radiological sources, training for Liberian experts on managing sealed radioactive sources, the provision of equipment and other assistance, improving facilities for nuclear and radiological emergencies, and strengthening the safe and secure management of radioactive sources in Liberia. The IAEA will also continue to support Liberia through its technical cooperation programme, providing training and resources to enhance the country’s capability in the safe and secure management of radioactive sources. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Moody’s Affirms Africa Finance Corporation’s (AFC) A3 Rating with a Change from Negative to Stable Outlook

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

    LAGOS, Nigeria, September 26, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, today announced that it has received an uplift to its credit ratings outlook from Moody’s Investors Service, with the assignment of a “stable” outlook. This decision further solidifies AFC’s position as one of the highest investment-grade African institutions, with Moody’s affirming the Corporation’s long-term issuer and senior unsecured ratings at A3, as well as AFC’s short-term issuer rating at P-2.

    “Notwithstanding increased country risk in several of AFC’s countries of operation over the past year, asset performance has proven resilient amid effective credit protections,” Moody’s analysts stated in its latest report. “The stable outlook also reflects management’s governance track record and early intervention capacity to mitigate materializing risks at an early stage.”

    Moody’s A3 rating affirmation reflects AFC’s adherence to its prudential guidelines to safeguard the Corporation’s intrinsic financial strength based on solid capital adequacy and high-quality liquidity buffers. In FY2023, the Corporation recorded outstanding financial performance with Capital Adequacy Ratio increased to 34.5% from 34.3% in 2022 and Cost-to-Income Ratio improved to 19.6%, from 22.7% in 2022. Additionally, the Corporation recorded Liquidity Coverage Ratios (LCR) of 161% and 143% under normal circumstances and a stress scenario respectively, significantly higher than the Corporation’s LCR requirement of greater than 100% in both scenarios.

    The decision by Moody’s is crucial for AFC to continue leveraging its top-tier credit ratings to achieve among the lowest borrowing costs of any institution in Africa, for transformational infrastructure projects in power, natural resources, transport, and technology that drive rapid industrialisation and job creation on the continent. Landmark initiatives include Djibouti’s first wind farm, with AFC as lead developer advancing plans to become the first African country wholly reliant on renewable sources for energy, and the Lobito Corridor rail project, with AFC again as lead developer working alongside the US, European Union and governments of Angola, DRC and Zambia to mobilise industry and connect the Atlantic and Indian oceans.

    “Amidst the current challenging global macroeconomic and financial conditions, we are pleased to receive such strong endorsement from Moody’s, a key lever in our access to global capital markets,” Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of AFC, said “It reinforces our position as the resilient and reliable partner for a more prosperous African future and an indispensable ally in mobilising urgently needed capital to build the infrastructure that integrates Africa and enables its industrialisation.”

    “The change in outlook to stable from negative is driven by our expectation that AFC will be able to maintain a stable, if not improving leverage ratio and that the asset performance track record will be preserved.” Moody’s analysts said, commending AFC. “The improved leverage outlook reflects the Corporation’s continued equity raising strategy. The Corporation exceeded its $1 billion target in 2019-23 and aims to raise a similar amount during 2024-28. Moreover, the corporation lowered its dividend payout ratio starting 2023 which will help retain a higher share of earnings and grow the capital base organically in the future,” they reported.

    In the face of uncertainty in the global financial landscape, AFC successfully maintains access to the global capital markets, a testament to the confidence that investors place in the Corporation’s robust credit risk profile and it’s growing global appeal. This year, AFC has completed several pivotal funding transactions including its largest ever debt facility, a US$1.16 billion syndicated loan, attracting new lenders from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

    For the full statement from Moody’s, please click here (https://apo-opa.co/3XGd2FV).

    MIL OSI Africa –