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Category: Politics

  • PM Modi calls India-Ghana friendship “sweeter than sugarloaf pineapple” in Accra address

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Parliament of Ghana on Thursday and highlighted the “sweetness” of the relationship between the two countries, which he said was rooted in shared struggles.

    “The histories of India and Ghana bear the scars of colonial rule, but our spirits have always remained free and fearless. We draw strength and inspiration from our rich heritage. We take pride in our social, cultural and linguistic diversities. We built nations rooted in freedom, unity and dignity. Our relationship knows no bounds,” PM Modi said.

    “And with your permission, may I say, our friendship is sweeter than your famous Sugarloaf Pineapple,” he added.

    PM Modi highlighted India’s democratic system, noting that the country has more than 2,500 political parties, 22 official languages and thousands of dialects. The Prime Minister repeated the figure after seeing the reaction from members of Ghana’s Parliament.

    “I repeat, 2,500 political parties. Twenty different parties governing different states. Twenty-two official languages, thousands of dialects. This is also the reason that people who come to India have always been welcomed with an open heart. The same spirit helps Indians integrate easily wherever they go. Even in Ghana, they have blended into society, just like sugar in tea,” PM Modi said.

    Praising the African nation, the Prime Minister said, “Ghana is known as the land of gold, not just for what lies under your soil but as much for the warmth and strength in your heart.”

    “When we look at Ghana, we see a nation that shines with courage, that rises above history, that meets every challenge with dignity and grace. Your commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress has truly made Ghana a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent,” he added.

    PM Modi highlighted that with President John Mahama, India and Ghana have decided to elevate ties to a Comprehensive Partnership.

    “The world order created after the Second World War is changing fast. The revolution in technology, the rise of the Global South and shifting demographics are contributing to its pace and scale. The challenges such as colonial rule that humanity has faced in earlier centuries still persist in different forms,” he said.

    Listing new and complex crises such as climate change, pandemics, terrorism and cybersecurity, PM Modi said that institutions created in the last century are struggling to respond.

    The Prime Minister reiterated India’s vision during its 2023 G20 Presidency — One Earth, One Family, One Future — and underscored how India highlighted Africa’s place at the global high table, with the African Union becoming a permanent member of the G20 during India’s presidency.

    “The changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance. Progress cannot come without giving voice to the Global South. We need more than slogans; we need action. That is why during India’s G20 presidency, we worked with the vision ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’,” PM Modi said.

    Stressing India’s commitment to ensuring Africa’s rightful place in global decision-making, the Prime Minister said, “We are proud that the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 during our presidency. For India, our philosophy is humanity first,” he said, quoting a Sanskrit verse that he translated as: “May all be happy; may all be free from illness; may no one suffer in any way.”

    This philosophy, PM Modi said, has shaped India’s approach to the world. “It guided our actions during the COVID pandemic. We shared vaccines and medicines with over 150 countries, including our friends in Ghana,” he highlighted.

    The PM added that “India carries Africa in its heart” and called for building a stronger partnership.

    On being conferred with Ghana’s highest civilian award, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the PM said, “It is a matter of great pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s national award, The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by the President. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama ji, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.”

    The Prime Minister dedicated the award to the youth of both countries. “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions, and the historic ties between India and Ghana,” he said.

    The award was presented during PM Modi’s visit to Ghana, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in more than 30 years.

    PM Modi also paid tribute at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, honouring Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding President and a revered leader of the African independence movement.

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nigerian National Pleads Guilty to International Fraud Scheme that Defrauded Elderly U.S. Victims

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Nigerian national pleaded guilty recently to operating a transnational inheritance fraud scheme that defrauded elderly and vulnerable consumers across the United States.

    According to court documents, Ehis Lawrence Akhimie, 41, was a member of a group of fraudsters that sent personalized letters to elderly victims in the United States over the course of several years.  The letters falsely claimed that the sender was a representative of a bank in Spain and that the recipient was entitled to receive a multimillion-dollar inheritance left for the recipient by a family member who had died overseas years before. Akhimie and his co-conspirators allegedly told a series of lies to victims, including that, before they could receive their purported inheritance, they were required to send money for delivery fees, taxes, and other payments to avoid questioning from government authorities. Akhimie and his co-conspirators allegedly collected money victims sent in response to the fraudulent letters through a complex web of U.S.-based former victims, whom the defendants convinced to receive money and forward to the defendants or persons associated with them. Victims who sent money never received any purported inheritance funds.  In pleading guilty, Akhimie admitted to defrauding over $6 million from more than 400 victims, many of whom were elderly or otherwise vulnerable.

    “The Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch will continue to pursue, prosecute and bring to justice transnational criminals responsible for defrauding U.S. consumers, wherever they are located,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This case is testament to the critical role of international collaboration in tackling transnational crime. I want to thank the members of the Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations, as well as the National Crime Agency and Crown Prosecution Service of the United Kingdom for their outstanding contributions to this case.” 

    “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to protecting American consumers from being defrauded by Transnational Criminal Organizations,” said Acting Postal Inspector in Charge Bladismir Rojo for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Miami Division.  “We have long partnered with the Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Branch to deliver justice and we will continue to do so.”

    “Transnational fraud schemes thrive in the shadows, turning illicit gains into a facade of legitimacy, especially those involving seniors or other vulnerable people,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ray Rede for HSI Arizona. “HSI and our law enforcement partners commitment to investigate criminals who steal money sends a clear message: justice will prevail, and those who exploit others for personal gain will be held accountable. We thank all our partners who assisted in this investigation.”

    On June 17, Akhimie pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Akhimie faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment.

    This is the second indicted case related to this international fraud scheme. Seven other co-conspirators from the United Kingdom, Spain, and Nigeria have previously been convicted and sentenced in connection with this scheme. On Nov. 1, 2023, the Honorable Kathleen M. Williams sentenced Ezennia Peter Neboh, who was extradited from Spain, to 128 months of imprisonment. On Oct. 20, 2023, Judge Williams sentenced another defendant who was also extradited from Spain, Kennedy Ikponmwosa, to 97 months of imprisonment. Three other defendants who were extradited from the United Kingdom also received prison sentences. Judge Williams sentenced Emmanuel Samuel, Jerry Chucks Ozor, and Iheanyichukwu Jonathan Abraham to prison sentences of 82 months, 87 months, and 90 months, respectively, for their roles in the scheme.  Amos Prince Okey Ezemma was paroled into the United States from Nigeria and was sentenced in July 2024 to 90 months imprisonment for his role in the scheme. Lastly, on April 25, the Honorable Roy K. Altman sentenced Okezie Bonaventure Ogbata, who was extradited from Portugal, to 97 months of incarceration for his role in the scheme.   

    USPIS, HSI, and the Consumer Protection Branch are investigating the case. Senior Trial Attorney and Transnational Criminal Litigation Coordinator Phil Toomajian and Trial Attorney Josh Rothman of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, and authorities from the UK, Spain, and Portugal all provided critical assistance.

    If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.

    More information about the Department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative webpage. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov/  or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ruth First and activist research: the legacy of a South African freedom fighter

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Saleem Badat, Research Professor, UFS History Department, University of the Free State

    Ruth First, born 100 years ago, was a South African freedom fighter, journalist and scholar who worked against the racist system of apartheid during white minority rule. She was assassinated by apartheid forces in her office at the Eduardo Mondlane University in Mozambique in 1982.

    Her ideas, work and legacy live on. Sociologists Saleem Badat and Vasu Reddy have edited a new book called Research and Activism: Ruth First & Activist Research. We asked them about her and their project.

    Who was Ruth First?

    Heloise Ruth First was born on 4 May 1925 in Johannesburg to Jewish parents who had migrated from eastern Europe to South Africa in the early 1900s. Her parents were founder members of the South African Communist Party.

    She joined the Young Communist League and the Federation of Progressive Students and graduated from the University of the Witwatersrand in 1946 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

    At 21, First joined the left-wing South African newspaper The Guardian. When it was banned, the New Age took its place until it too was banned in 1962. She served as the newspaper’s Johannesburg editor for 17 years.

    In 1963, First was arrested at the University of the Witwatersrand library and held in solitary confinement for 117 days, during which time she was ruthlessly interrogated. The following year she and her three children left South Africa for England on an exit permit, where they joined her partner, the activist and politician Joe Slovo. She would not set foot again in South Africa. Continuing with her activist research in England, she taught at Durham University and then joined Eduardo Mondlane University until hear death.

    Ruth First. Courtesy the Slovo family

    The mid-1940s to early 1960s were tumultuous years in South Africa. With the rise of formal apartheid in 1948, racial segregation was intensified.

    First’s intrepid and penetrating journalistic research exposed her to the brutality of labour exploitation and control on the mines and the farms. It reinforced her understanding of South Africa in Marxist terms.

    She wrote:

    Silence in the face of injustice is complicity.

    For her:

    The will to fight is born out of the desire for freedom.

    She was confident that:

    The power of the people is greater than the power of any government.

    First believed that ignorance is “the enemy of progress and justice” and that knowledge and education are “key to empowering individuals and challenging oppressive systems”. These words ring true in today’s global events driven by right-wing authoritarianism, US imperialism and acts of genocide.

    On learning of her death, former South African President Nelson Mandela recalled:

    I was in prison when Ruth First was assassinated, felt almost alone. Lost a sister in arms  … It is no consolation to know that she lives beyond her grave.

    What is activist research and how is it applied in the book?

    As authors, we revisit Ruth First’s life, work and ideas and its relevance for the current context. We focus especially on the nature of her scholarship and how she navigated the tensions between her activism and her research – whether journalistic or for her books on South West Africa (today’s Namibia), Libya or western investment in apartheid. Other of her acclaimed books included The Barrel of a Gun: Political Power in Africa and the Coup d’etat and, during her Mozambican sojourn, Black Gold: The Mozambican Miner, Proletarian and Peasant.

    In the process we invite renewed critical reflection about her life and work. Inspired by First’s contributions, the book considers how universities and scholars engage with institutions and social movements beyond the university.

    ESI Press

    For example, in the book a research group from Durham University in the UK considers how to balance objectivity (showing no bias) with more politically participatory research methods and how objectivity can be enhanced despite the difficulties faced by activist research.

    Other scholars reflect on the work of the assassinated South African anti-apartheid activist scholar and lecturer Rick Turner on climate change. And on the complexities of undertaking activist research in Marikana with a women’s organisation, Sikhala Sonke. Marikana was the site where South African police opened fire on and killed 34 striking mineworkers in 2012.

    There is examination of a research partnership between University of Cape Town activist scholars and some Khoi-San communities, reflection on the challenges of legal practice and education, and critical analysis of the decolonisation challenges of the KwaZulu-Natal Society of the Arts.

    How do you frame activist research in your book?

    The book shows that there is a difference between engaged research, critical research and activist research.

    Engaged research tries to connect knowledge produced by academics with institutions, movements and experts outside the university to collaboratively address issues and promote cooperation.

    Critical research uses radical critical theory to critique oppression and injustice, to show the gap between what exists today and more just ways of living. However, it does not necessarily connect with political and social movements.

    Ruth First addresses a rally in Trafalgar Square, London in 1960. Courtesy the Slovo family

    First’s research was not only engaged, but also critical in orientation and activist in nature. As activist research it challenged oppression and inequality.

    It both critiqued the status quo in South Africa and elsewhere and tried to change it. It was linked with movements and connected to political activism that was anti-colonial, anti-imperialist, and committed to socialism.

    Read more: Lessons learnt from taking sides as a sociologist in unjust times

    First’s activist research did not confine itself to the academic arena but engaged with larger, wider and more diverse publics. It used this experience to critique dominant and often limited thinking at universities and promoted other ways of producing knowledge. The expertise developed was used to improve scholarship in various ways.

    What do you want readers to take away?

    There is much talk about the “engaged university” and engaged research. However, only certain connections and engagements seem to be valued.

    Prior to democracy in 1994, South African researchers connected with social movements for change. Now this is seldom the case. Universities and scholars largely engage with those with money – the state, business, elites and donors.

    Read more: Regina Twala was a towering intellectual and activist in Eswatini – but she was erased from history

    This raises questions about the roles of researchers in South Africa, whose interests are prioritised and the place of critical and activist research in the engaged university.

    How should Ruth First be remembered?

    We must honour her for her intellectual and practical activism. What matters is not just her knowledge archive, but also her example as both an outstanding interpreter of the world and an activist scholar committed to changing society in the interests of the downtrodden, marginalised and voiceless.

    First was a critical and independent thinker who refused to accept anything as settled and beyond questioning. But that intellect was committed to loyalty to the national liberation movement of which she was an invaluable cadre.

    The views expressed in this piece do not reflect or represent the position of the university to which Badat and Reddy are affiliated.

    – Ruth First and activist research: the legacy of a South African freedom fighter
    – https://theconversation.com/ruth-first-and-activist-research-the-legacy-of-a-south-african-freedom-fighter-257687

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Associates of Bounty Hunter Bloods Gang Indicted for Racketeering Conspiracy

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    NEWARK, N.J. – Five New Jersey men, including associates of a New Jersey gang associated with the Bounty Hunter Bloods criminal street gang were charged by a superseding indictment with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy, drug trafficking, and firearms offenses, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    The Indictment charges Carl Napier, a/k/a “Smash” (“Napier”), Hamir Wright, a/k/a “Lil Smash” (“Wright”), Alexis Tejada (“Tejada”), Jihad Bibbs, Sr. (“Bibbs”), and Jamie Archer-Monroe, a/k/a “Raziq” (“Archer-Monroe”), all of Somerset County and Middlesex County, New Jersey,  with a racketeering conspiracy that included multiple murders, fraud schemes, and narcotics distribution.  Napier and Bibbs are in federal custody on previously filed related federal charges.  Tejada and Archer-Monroe were arrested and appeared in federal court in Newark before the Hon. Stacy Adams, U.SM.J. for initial appearances. Wright is in state custody on previously filed unrelated charges and will appear in federal court at a later date.

    The charges are the result of a long-running investigation, coordinated between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, the New Brunswick Police Department, and the Franklin Township Police Department.

    “There will be zero tolerance for violent crime and gang activity in the state of New Jersey. My office will continue to use all resources to find and prosecute those who instill fear in our citizens and undermine the safety of our communities. These criminals do not run our streets — the law does, and my office will enforce it without hesitation.” 

    – U.S. Attorney Alina Habba

    “The apprehension of these individuals is a momentous step towards making New Jersey safer, one day at a time. By freeing these communities from those who allegedly distribute drugs, firearms, and use violence as a means of coercion, the FBI continues its mission to combat violent crime,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    Napier and Wright, each were allegedly associates of the Bounty Hunter Bloods, who operated under the umbrella of the neighborhood street gangs known as “Parkside” in Somerset and “The Ville” in New Brunswick. Some of the charged defendants are alleged to have also engaged in numerous violent acts on behalf of and for the benefit of the gang, including assaults, shootings, and murders, some of which targeted rival gang members.  For example, on or about March 12, 2024, Napier and Wright, while with other gang members in New Brunswick, got into a confrontation regarding narcotics distribution with purported rival gang members and shot at them, killing Victim 1 and resulting in injury to Victim 2.

    In addition to this violent act, the defendants, are alleged to have routinely distributed narcotics and trafficked firearms in and around the gang’s territory in both New Brunswick and Somerset.

    This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Stefanie Roddy, investigators of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, investigators of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor John McDonald, the New Brunswick Police Department, under the direction of Chief Vincent Sabo and the Franklin Township Police Department, under the direction of Director of Public Safety Quovella Mayweather, for the investigation leading to the charges. U.S. Attorney Habba and SAC Roddy would also like to thank the Central New Jersey Safe Streets Task Force, Woodbridge Police Department, Raritan Township Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kendall Randolph, Deputy Chief of the District of New Jersey’s Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Nadel of the Office’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force Unit in Newark.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel:

    Carl Napier- Steve Altman

    Jihad Bibb, Sr.- Michael Policastro

    Alexis Tejada- Joseph R. Rubino

    Jamie Archer-Monroe- Stephen Dratch

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Defendants Charged for Their Roles in Health Care Fraud and Illegal Drug Diversion Schemes

    Source: US FBI

    Today, United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian announced criminal charges against five defendants in connection with allegations that they defrauded Medicare and other federal health care benefit programs and illegally diverted drugs. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The charges stem from various schemes, including a doctor who submitted unnecessary claims for medical equipment, individuals who ran or participated in fraud schemes to obtain money from federally funded health insurance programs through false claims, and a nurse who diverted pain medication for his own use.

    “Fraud and abuse in our health care system all too often result in harm to the elderly and sick and a loss to the American taxpayer.  The five cases announced today reflect the far-reaching impact of health care fraud and my office’s commitment to prosecuting schemes that target these vital programs,” said United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian.  “We will hold accountable any person who chooses greed over patient well-being.”

    “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

    The charges announced today by U.S. Attorney Missakian are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in alleged false billings and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets, and the Government, in connection with the Takedown, seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets.

    The following individuals were charged in the Northern District of California:

    • Vincent Thayer, 41, of San Jose, California, was charged by indictment with wire fraud, health care fraud, and aggravated identity theft in connection with a $68 million medical office visit scheme. As alleged in the indictment, Thayer owned Patient Payment Agent, which did business as My Community Testing, and was a purported COVID-19 testing money. Through this company, Thayer caused the submission of approximately $68,205,233 in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program, of which approximately $11,751,819 was paid, for office visits purportedly performed by medical professionals but that never occurred. Thayer also misappropriated the identity of a doctor to enroll his company in Medicare and Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid program). The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Matthew Belz of the Los Angeles Strike Force and Lauren Randell of the National Rapid Response Strike Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Rezaei of the Northern District of California.
    • Sevendik Huseynov, 47, a national of Azerbaijan currently residing in Sunnyvale, California, and the owner and CEO of Vonyes, Inc. in Sunnyvale, California, was charged by criminal complaint and arrested on June 26, 2025.  The complaint alleges that the defendant committed health care fraud through a scheme to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare Advantage Organizations (“MAOs”) on behalf of unsuspecting beneficiaries for durable medical equipment (“DME”).  The complaint alleges that Huseynov, from January 15, 2025, through June 16, 2025, through his entity Vonyes, submitted more than 7,200 claims to at least eight separate MAOs offering Medicare Part C benefit plans, and that those claims sought reimbursement of more than $137 million for DME such as back braces, knee braces, and wrist braces.  The complaint alleges that certain of the purported beneficiaries contacted by law enforcement were not aware of the DME prescriptions and did not need the prescribed DME.  The complaint also alleges that a healthcare provider listed as a referring physician on many billing claims had never prescribed DME supplied by Vonyes and that the patients listed on those claims were not his patients.  The complaint also alleges that a review of bank records for Vonyes and Huseynov did not show any purchases of actual DME.  At least $761,037.63 was paid to Vonyes, into accounts controlled solely by Huseynov, from MAOs during the scheme.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maya Karwande, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California.
    • Clinton Johnson Christian, 38, of Fairfield, California, was charged by indictment with tampering with consumer products and intentionally obtaining controlled substances through deception and subterfuge in connection with diverting a controlled substance for his personal use. As alleged in the indictment, Christian accessed a machine that held hydromorphone by falsely stating a patient needed the controlled substance, removed a vial of hydromorphone, extracted the hydromorphone and re-filled the vial with saline before replacing the vial and cancelling the patient’s order. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan U. Lee of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California.
    • Dr. Yasmin Pirani, 46, of British Columbia, Canada, was charged by indictment with health care fraud and false statements related to health care matters in connection with a $35.2 million telemedicine fraud scheme. As alleged in the indictment, in exchange for payments from a telemedicine company, Dr. Pirani signed prescriptions for DME that was medically unnecessary, for Medicare beneficiaries with whom she lacked a pre-existing doctor-patient relationship, without a physical examination, and without any conversation with the beneficiary or based solely on a short telephonic conversation. Dr. Pirani falsely diagnosed Medicare beneficiaries with certain conditions to support the DME prescriptions and falsely attested that the information in medical records was accurate, concealing that she did not have any interaction with the Medicare beneficiaries or that the interaction was brief and telephonic. The telemedicine company solicited illegal kickbacks and bribes from DME suppliers in exchange for DME prescriptions signed by Dr. Pirani, and the DME suppliers billed Medicare approximately $32.5 million based on Dr. Pirani’s prescriptions. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney S. Babu Kaza of the Midwest Strike Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Shepard of the  Northern District of California.
    • Patrick Omeife, 33, of Ghana, was charged by indictment with two counts of concealment money laundering in connection with a scheme to launder approximately $33,765 that was fraudulently disbursed from a federal COVID-19 relief program and intended for an optometrist whose identity had been stolen. As alleged in the indictment, Omeife, falsely purporting to be a covert agent of the U.S. government, began an online romantic relationship with a woman and requested that the woman use her bank account to receive his salary. This woman provided Omeife with her bank account information, and her account was used in a September 2020 fraudulent application for funds from the COVID-19 Provider Relief Fund (“PRF”). The PRF provided funds to health care providers that were financially impacted by COVID-19. Based on the fraudulent September 2020 application, the PRF disbursed approximately $33,765 intended for the optometrist into the woman’s bank account. At Omeife’s direction, the woman converted the funds to Bitcoin cryptocurrency and transferred the Bitcoin to Omeife’s cryptocurrency account. Omeife repeatedly provided identifying information to his cryptocurrency exchange, to include his Republic of Ghana driver’s license and “selfie” photographs of his face and bare upper body, depicting a distinctive tattoo on his chest of the Bitcoin currency symbol. Numerous additional fraudulent PRF applications connected to the application made in the optometrist’s name resulted in at least $1.6 million of fraudulent disbursement of funds related to COVID-19 relief programs. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Babu Kaza of the Midwest Strike Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina Green of the Northern District of California.

    “Healthcare fraud is not a victimless crime. It drains critical resources from healthcare programs, undermines public trust, and ultimately steals from American taxpayers. The FBI is committed to rooting out health care fraud in all its forms, working alongside our law enforcement partners to hold perpetrators accountable and protect the integrity of our nation’s healthcare system,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani.

    “FDA is fully committed to the vigorous criminal prosecution of individuals who threaten the safety of U.S. consumers,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Iwanicki, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Los Angeles Field Office.  “We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect the public health and bring to justice those who compromise patients’ health.”

    In addition to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California, the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices from around the country; and State Attorney Generals’ Offices for Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are prosecuting the cases in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown, with assistance from the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team. Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available here.

    The Northern District of California, in particular, worked with the Department’s Criminal Division and Health Care Fraud Unit and the following law enforcement organizations to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the enforcement period: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations.

    A complaint, information, or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: East Conemaugh Man Sentenced to 11.5 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm

    Source: US FBI

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of East Conemaugh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 138 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on his convictions of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Kari Ameen Wheeler, 38.

    According to information presented to the Court, on or about August 21, 2024, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Wheeler distributed and possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Further, on or about August 23, 2024, Wheeler possessed two firearms and ammunition after previously having been convicted of a felony. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

    Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force and Cambria County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wheeler.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nigerian National Pleads Guilty to International Fraud Scheme that Defrauded Elderly U.S. Victims

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Nigerian national pleaded guilty recently to operating a transnational inheritance fraud scheme that defrauded elderly and vulnerable consumers across the United States.

    According to court documents, Ehis Lawrence Akhimie, 41, was a member of a group of fraudsters that sent personalized letters to elderly victims in the United States over the course of several years.  The letters falsely claimed that the sender was a representative of a bank in Spain and that the recipient was entitled to receive a multimillion-dollar inheritance left for the recipient by a family member who had died overseas years before. Akhimie and his co-conspirators allegedly told a series of lies to victims, including that, before they could receive their purported inheritance, they were required to send money for delivery fees, taxes, and other payments to avoid questioning from government authorities. Akhimie and his co-conspirators allegedly collected money victims sent in response to the fraudulent letters through a complex web of U.S.-based former victims, whom the defendants convinced to receive money and forward to the defendants or persons associated with them. Victims who sent money never received any purported inheritance funds.  In pleading guilty, Akhimie admitted to defrauding over $6 million from more than 400 victims, many of whom were elderly or otherwise vulnerable.

    “The Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch will continue to pursue, prosecute and bring to justice transnational criminals responsible for defrauding U.S. consumers, wherever they are located,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This case is testament to the critical role of international collaboration in tackling transnational crime. I want to thank the members of the Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations, as well as the National Crime Agency and Crown Prosecution Service of the United Kingdom for their outstanding contributions to this case.” 

    “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to protecting American consumers from being defrauded by Transnational Criminal Organizations,” said Acting Postal Inspector in Charge Bladismir Rojo for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Miami Division.  “We have long partnered with the Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Branch to deliver justice and we will continue to do so.”

    “Transnational fraud schemes thrive in the shadows, turning illicit gains into a facade of legitimacy, especially those involving seniors or other vulnerable people,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ray Rede for HSI Arizona. “HSI and our law enforcement partners commitment to investigate criminals who steal money sends a clear message: justice will prevail, and those who exploit others for personal gain will be held accountable. We thank all our partners who assisted in this investigation.”

    On June 17, Akhimie pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Akhimie faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment.

    This is the second indicted case related to this international fraud scheme. Seven other co-conspirators from the United Kingdom, Spain, and Nigeria have previously been convicted and sentenced in connection with this scheme. On Nov. 1, 2023, the Honorable Kathleen M. Williams sentenced Ezennia Peter Neboh, who was extradited from Spain, to 128 months of imprisonment. On Oct. 20, 2023, Judge Williams sentenced another defendant who was also extradited from Spain, Kennedy Ikponmwosa, to 97 months of imprisonment. Three other defendants who were extradited from the United Kingdom also received prison sentences. Judge Williams sentenced Emmanuel Samuel, Jerry Chucks Ozor, and Iheanyichukwu Jonathan Abraham to prison sentences of 82 months, 87 months, and 90 months, respectively, for their roles in the scheme.  Amos Prince Okey Ezemma was paroled into the United States from Nigeria and was sentenced in July 2024 to 90 months imprisonment for his role in the scheme. Lastly, on April 25, the Honorable Roy K. Altman sentenced Okezie Bonaventure Ogbata, who was extradited from Portugal, to 97 months of incarceration for his role in the scheme.   

    USPIS, HSI, and the Consumer Protection Branch are investigating the case. Senior Trial Attorney and Transnational Criminal Litigation Coordinator Phil Toomajian and Trial Attorney Josh Rothman of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, and authorities from the UK, Spain, and Portugal all provided critical assistance.

    If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.

    More information about the Department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative webpage. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov/  or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four North Koreans Charged in Nearly $1 Million Cryptocurrency Theft Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    ATLANTA – Four North Korean nationals, Kim Kwang Jin (김관진), Kang Tae Bok (강태복), Jong Pong Ju (정봉주), and Chang Nam Il (창남일), have been charged in a five-count wire fraud and money laundering indictment arising from a scheme to be hired as remote IT workers and then steal and launder over $900,000 in virtual currency.

    “The defendants used fake and stolen personal identities to conceal their North Korean nationality, pose as remote IT workers, and exploit their victims’ trust to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “This indictment highlights the unique threat North Korea poses to companies that hire remote IT workers and underscores our resolve to prosecute any actor, in the United States or abroad, who steals from Georgia businesses.”

    “These schemes target and steal from U.S. companies and are designed to evade sanctions and fund the North Korean regime’s illicit programs, including its weapons programs,” said John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for the Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department, along with our law enforcement, private sector, and international partners, will persistently pursue and dismantle these cyber-enabled revenue generation networks.”

    “North Korean operatives used false identities to infiltrate companies and steal digital assets to fund their regime,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI is committed to exposing these threats and protecting U.S. businesses from nation-state cybercrime.”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the indictment, and other information presented in court: To generate revenue for the regime, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (“North Korea” or “DPRK”) dispatches thousands of skilled IT workers around the world to deceive and infiltrate American companies. In October 2019, the defendants traveled to the United Arab Emirates on North Korean documents and worked there as a team. In approximately December 2020 and May 2021, respectively, Kim Kwang Jin (using victim P.S.’s stolen identity) and Jong Pong Ju (using the alias “Bryan Cho”) were hired as developers by an Atlanta, Georgia-based blockchain research and development company and a Serbian virtual token company. Both defendants concealed their North Korean identities from their employers by providing false identification documents containing a mix of stolen and fraudulent identity information. Neither company would have hired Kim Kwang Jin or Jong Pong Ju had it known the defendants were North Korean citizens. Later, on a recommendation from Jong Pong Ju, the Serbian company hired “Peter Xiao,” who in fact was Chang Nam Il.

    After gaining their employers’ trust, Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju were assigned projects that provided them access to their employers’ virtual currency assets. In February 2022, Jong Pong Ju used that access to steal virtual currency then worth approximately $175,000. In March 2022, Kim Kwang Jin stole virtual currency then worth approximately $740,000 by modifying the source code of two of his employer’s smart contracts.

    To launder the funds after the thefts, Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju used a virtual currency mixer and then transferred the funds to virtual currency exchange accounts controlled by defendants Kang Tae Bok and Chang Nam Il but held in the names of aliases.  The accounts were opened using fraudulent Malaysian identification documents.

    Kim Kwang Jin (김관진), Kang Tae Bok (강태복), Jong Pong Ju (정봉주), and Chang Nam Il (창남일) were indicted by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia on June 24, 2025.

    Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges.  The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and the government bears the burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is part of the Department of Justice’s DPRK RevGen: Domestic Enabler Initiative. Under the Initiative, launched by the National Security Division and FBI Cyber and Counterintelligence Divisions in March 2024, federal prosecutors and agents prioritize high-impact, strategic, and unified enforcement and disruption operations targeting the DPRK’s illicit revenue generation efforts and the U.S.-based enablers of those efforts.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Samir Kaushal and Alex R. Sistla, and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section, are prosecuting the case.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185.  The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Support Hub for victims and survivors of terrorism

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Support Hub for victims and survivors of terrorism

    Victims and survivors of terrorism will receive strengthened support as the government today launches a commercial competition to establish a new dedicated support hub.

    As part of the Plan for Change, the government committed to establishing a new dedicated support hub for victims and survivors, supporting their needs in the immediate and long-term aftermath of a terrorist attack.

    The new 24/7 support hub will provide specialist, trauma-informed care to victims and survivors of terrorism, ensuring they have access to the help they need.

    The tender, which opened on Thursday 3 July, is supported by Pool Re, a strategic partner in the government’s CONTEST strategy and the Counter Terrorism Alliance. Pool Re has provided funding to help deliver on our shared mission of supporting victims and survivors.

    Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:

    The repercussions of a terrorist attack are catastrophic. Victims and survivors require dedicated care to help rebuild their lives.

    This new hub will give victims the comprehensive support they need, and I thank Pool Re for being a crucial partner in delivering this.

    Tom Clementi, Director and CEO of Pool Re, said:

    Pool Re is proud to support victims and survivors of terrorism. As the UK’s largest terrorism reinsurer, we recognise that while the economic impact of terrorism is often in the spotlight, the human cost is just as significant.

    This dedicated support hub will help ensure that those affected receive the long-term care they deserve. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Home Office through the Counter Terrorism Alliance, to increase the UK’s resilience to the impact of terrorism attacks.

    The 24/7 support hub is a part of wider reforms that have been designed in response to direct engagement with victims and survivors, and insights drawn from international best practice.

    In March, the government also announced a consultation on a new National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism. This closed on 11 June and sought views on proposals to help the country to remember and honour those who have been tragically killed or impacted by terrorist attacks. The outcome of the consultation will follow in due course.

    The Home Office Victims of Terrorism Unit will continue to engage with key stakeholders on progress. 

    Support is available to victims and survivors of terrorism and all those affected, regardless of whether the attack took place in the United Kingdom or overseas. More information is available at gov.uk/victimsofterrorism.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The first championship in professional skills among SVO participants will be held in 15 in-demand competencies

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    From July 25 to 29, Kazan will host the first championship in professional skills among participants of the special military operation “Abilympics”. It is being held in accordance with the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    “At a meeting with the SVO participants, President Vladimir Putin said that people who have consciously chosen to serve the Fatherland and through this achieve their personal success should gradually occupy certain positions in various areas and directions. Today, it is especially important to help our heroes realize themselves in their chosen specialties and find jobs worthy of such highly qualified, responsible specialists. The first championship in professional skills among SVO participants will be held in 15 in-demand competencies at once. Participants of the national championship “Abilympics” will be able to undergo internships and get jobs in the leading organizations of the country,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    More than 400 people will take part in the competition – these are contestants, experts and accompanying persons. Based on the results, 75 finalists will be selected, who will demonstrate their skills in the final of the national championship “Abilympics” in October 2025.

    “The National Championship of Professional Skills “Abilympics” has won recognition from employers, experts and the inclusive community of our country. This is not just a competition, but a symbol of the fortitude, courage and willpower of defenders. “Abilympics” reveals the heroes as true masters of their craft, who, thanks to perseverance and strength of character, are ready to achieve results for the sake of Russia’s development. I am confident that participation in the championship will help veterans conquer new heights in their chosen specialties,” said State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Defense, Chairperson of the State Foundation “Defenders of the Fatherland” Anna Tsivileva.

    The competition will be held at the production and training center of JSC Kazan Helicopters in 15 competencies: Web Development (Programming), UAV Operator, Photographer, Car Repair and Maintenance, Wood Carving, Performing Arts (Vocals), Massage Therapist, Cooking, Industrial Robotics, Assembly and Disassembly of Electronic Equipment, Welding Technologies, Metalworking, Carpentry, Electrical Installation, and CNC Turning.

    “The Professional Skills Championship is an important stage of comprehensive rehabilitation and social adaptation for the SVO participants, an opportunity to acquire sought-after skills and confidence in their professional future. Now it is important to provide comprehensive support to the returned guys – from training and career guidance to assistance in employment, and the Abilympics movement is actively involved in this process. Each of the veterans of the special operation should have the opportunity to realize their potential, find a decent job and continue developing in the chosen field. After all, their experience, discipline and determination are a valuable contribution to the development of our country,” commented Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov.

    The opening ceremony of the championship is scheduled for July 25 in the concert hall of the Volga Region State University of Physical Education, Sports and Tourism. The award ceremony for the winners will take place on July 29 in the Bashir Rameev IT Park.

    “It is a great honor and responsibility for us to host this championship. Tatarstan has long been the center of major political and sporting events. We see the attention and care that the President of the country Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin shows to the participants of the SVO. And we are ready to create all the necessary conditions so that our veterans of the special military operation can demonstrate their skills,” said the head of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov.

    In addition to the competitive part, the championship includes a business program, which will include a plenary session on the professional development of SVO veterans, round tables on rehabilitation through sports and the role of civil society in supporting SVO participants. Career guidance, excursions and sports events will also be organized for the championship participants.

    In 2025, 228 people from 62 constituent entities of the Russian Federation took part in the regional championships in professional skills among disabled people and people with disabilities “Abilympics” in 43 competencies.

    The organizer of the championship is the Ministry of Education with the support of the Government of Russia and the state fund for supporting participants of the “Defenders of the Fatherland” military military organization, the federal operator is the Institute for the Development of Professional Education, and the regional operator is the government of the Republic of Tatarstan.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Secretary Steve Reed: Groundswell Show speech

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed: Groundswell Show speech

    Speech by Environment Secretary Steve Reed at the 2025 Groundswell Show.

    It’s fantastic to be with you all here today. I’m delighted to have this opportunity to speak to so many people.

    It’s exciting to be here at Groundswell with the pioneers and innovators who are shaping the future of British farming.

    I’ve really been looking forward to coming to Groundswell because I know this is where the big ideas are taking shape. 

    You’re confronting the challenges of the future by drawing on the power of the past, looking at how we can use regenerative agriculture to shape the future of farming, and inspiring others to get involved in those approaches.

    You’ve been the ones to break the mould, championing the vital role of nature in sustainable food production from the start – the pioneers of an agricultural transition that must be just and must recognise the importance of community and tradition as we shape that future.

    Protecting British food security has never been more important. We’ve just had our warmest spring on record. Flooding is on the rise. Geopolitical events are threatening global food supply chains.

    Food security is national security. And you, more than anyone, know it’s only by restoring nature that we can make our food secure.

    Restoring nature is central to the Government’s approach.

    In the Spending Review, we committed to spend £2.7 billion a year on sustainable farming and nature’s recovery over the next three years.

    Funding for farmers through the Environmental Land Management schemes will increase by 150 per cent to £2 billion by 2029. And a further £400 million will be available from other nature schemes, including projects for tree planting and peatland restoration.

    This is the biggest financial investment in nature-friendly farming in our country’s history.

    Take a moment to compare this to 2017, when Groundswell first started. Back then, £350 million was invested into ELMs’ predecessor.

    Thanks to your efforts, nature-friendly farming has come a very long way in the past nine years.

    There are now over 39,000 SFI agreements producing fantastic results for nature. That’s something to celebrate. 

    [Political line removed]

    We’ve got the money out the door into farmers’ bank accounts, and I’m proud of that. But once you’ve spent a budget, you can’t keep spending it or you damage the economy, and we’re not doing that.

    Those farmers who missed out at the time the scheme closed to new applicants will be able to make claims once it reopens. But budgets can’t be unlimited, so we need to make sure we focus that public money where it’s going to make the biggest impact. 

    Farms are businesses, and all businesses need to be profitable to survive. I see it as central to my job to help make farming profitable. 

    I firmly believe the Sustainable Farming Incentive and ELMs are the best tools to support farmers’ transition to sustainable food production and to profitability.

    Later this summer, I will provide more details of our reformed SFI offer. We are working with farmers to shape the scheme, which will start accepting applications in the new year.

    We need to return firmly to the principle of public money for public goods.

    Our reformed SFI will maximise benefits for the environment, particularly around water quality and biodiversity, so we can clean up our polluted rivers, welcome wildlife back to farms, and strengthen the natural foundations that are vital to sustainable food production.

    We will simplify the SFI and support farmers to take on packages of actions which, when done together, achieve more for nature. And I know we need to upgrade the IT system so it’s easier for farmers to submit applications.

    That is part of my broader plan to rewire and reset Defra, to remove the bureaucracy and barriers that stand in the way of people getting the support they need.

    More environmental benefits, a simpler offer, supporting farmers through the transition, a focus on profitability, and visibility of the overall budget so we get it out the door and you know when it’s going to be fully allocated.

    This will be the shape of our reformed SFI.

    We’re also reopening our Capital Grants offer today – with £150 million in the latest round to invest in nature-friendly farming.

    That includes funding to plant hedgerows, buy equipment that will help clean up our rivers, or restore habitats that support biodiversity.

    Farmers and land managers can apply for a total of 78 items under the latest round, including four new items on woodland condition, wildlife management, stone walls and educational visits.

    We’ve taken time to assess and improve our offer. Putting funding limits on certain actions will ensure we manage budgets fairly so we can open the grants over a longer period of time.

    The SFI and Capital Grants form part of a much wider reset for farming.

    We want to support farmers to run profitable and financially resilient businesses that produce nutritious, high-quality food and other produce, and help to restore nature at the same time.

    Our 25-Year Farming Roadmap will outline our shared vision for the sector and set the direction for how we get there. It will give farmers clarity, stability and transparency.

    This will be a transition led by farm businesses, drawing on your experiences and your expertise.

    With government as the enabler, but farmers as the leaders.

    We’ve seen how effective farm clusters can be in supporting nature over a wider area – an initiative led by the sector which the Government can support.

    I’ve asked Baroness Minette Batters, former NFU President, to lead a review into how we can boost farm profitability – and she has written to the sector to get your ideas to inform the review.

    And we’re continuing to work with the Farm Tenancy Forum to ensure tenant farmers can access our reformed farming schemes.

    The farming sector is also leading the way on innovation.

    Agri-tech is one of our highest growth sectors, with 40 times the number of UK agri-tech businesses than we had ten years ago.

    Our ADOPT programme puts farmers in the driving seat, giving them the chance to test new technologies on their farm – such as solar panels on soft polytunnels or cultivation equipment to improve soil health in potato production. 

    Under the Government’s Industrial Strategy, we are taking this further. We’re investing over £200 million in the Farming Innovation Programme between now and 2030, as well as launching an Agri-Tech Export Accelerator Programme to help agri-tech businesses identify the best international markets.

    It’s been an interesting year, and certainly far from always straightforward.

    But we are now at a point where we can make things work better for farmers, food production and nature. I strongly believe in nature-positive farming. It is the way we can help farming to become more sustainable and successful both environmentally and financially.   

    You are the pioneers. I’m here to learn. Together we can give farming the bright and exciting future it, and our countryside, needs and deserves.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Construction industry joins hands with education sector to promote STEAM education (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The launching ceremony of the Infrastructure x Education Exhibition and the first phase of achievement of the STEAM UP project, jointly organised by the Development Bureau and the Construction Industry Council (CIC), was held today (July 3). This is the first time for the construction industry to collaborate with the education sector to organise a large-scale exhibition featuring infrastructure projects in Hong Kong to promote STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education related to the construction industry, thereby helping students apply STEAM knowledge through practical examples of infrastructure projects and encouraging the younger generation to join the construction industry.

         Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the construction industry and infrastructure involve many STEAM elements. The construction industry joins hands with the education sector to launch STEAM learning and teaching materials, which can make learning more effective. She hoped that, through this exhibition, infrastructure can tell the good stories of Hong Kong and share STEAM knowledge, which arouses students’ interest towards the construction industry and the exploration of STEAM knowledge.

         Other officiating guests at the launching ceremony were the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau; the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai; the Chairman of the CIC, Professor Thomas Ho; the Executive Director of the CIC, Mr Albert Cheng; and the Executive Director of Hong Kong Education City, Dr Tenny Lam.

         Hong Kong’s first 3-dimensional Infrastructure Map supporting STEAM education was launched at the ceremony, introducing 32 types of infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and the related STEAM knowledge. The Infrastructure Map will be exhibited in various districts in Hong Kong in the future to let members of the public understand the edges of the infrastructure of Hong Kong.
     
         The first set of architecture-themed learning and teaching materials of the STEAM UP project, including teachers’ lesson plans and teaching materials, as well as story books, games and e-learning platforms for students, was also rolled out at the ceremony, offering all-round support to STEAM education in schools. Another eight sets of learning and teaching materials, covering aspects of architecture, surveying, planning, landscape architecture and engineering, will be launched progressively for use in classrooms in primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong starting from 2025/26 school year.

         Ten thematic zones are set up in the exhibition. In addition to the aforementioned two major projects, the exhibition also introduces the work, career paths and development prospect of various professional fields in the construction industry, helping students plan their careers. Interactive games with construction robots are also available.

         A series of talks are also organised in the exhibition, where speakers from government departments, tertiary institutions, training institutions, professional institutes and trade associations discuss topics covering innovative technology, Building Information Modelling, artificial intelligence, Modular Integrated Construction, Multi-trade integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing, etc.

         The Infrastructure x Education Exhibition is part of the Learning & Teaching Expo 2025 being held from July 2 to 4, at Booth R01, Hall 3B, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Expo Drive, Wan Chai. For more information about the exhibition, please visit: https://www.constructionhk.org/en/infrastructure-education/.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Construction industry joins hands with education sector to promote STEAM education (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The launching ceremony of the Infrastructure x Education Exhibition and the first phase of achievement of the STEAM UP project, jointly organised by the Development Bureau and the Construction Industry Council (CIC), was held today (July 3). This is the first time for the construction industry to collaborate with the education sector to organise a large-scale exhibition featuring infrastructure projects in Hong Kong to promote STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education related to the construction industry, thereby helping students apply STEAM knowledge through practical examples of infrastructure projects and encouraging the younger generation to join the construction industry.

         Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the construction industry and infrastructure involve many STEAM elements. The construction industry joins hands with the education sector to launch STEAM learning and teaching materials, which can make learning more effective. She hoped that, through this exhibition, infrastructure can tell the good stories of Hong Kong and share STEAM knowledge, which arouses students’ interest towards the construction industry and the exploration of STEAM knowledge.

         Other officiating guests at the launching ceremony were the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau; the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai; the Chairman of the CIC, Professor Thomas Ho; the Executive Director of the CIC, Mr Albert Cheng; and the Executive Director of Hong Kong Education City, Dr Tenny Lam.

         Hong Kong’s first 3-dimensional Infrastructure Map supporting STEAM education was launched at the ceremony, introducing 32 types of infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and the related STEAM knowledge. The Infrastructure Map will be exhibited in various districts in Hong Kong in the future to let members of the public understand the edges of the infrastructure of Hong Kong.
     
         The first set of architecture-themed learning and teaching materials of the STEAM UP project, including teachers’ lesson plans and teaching materials, as well as story books, games and e-learning platforms for students, was also rolled out at the ceremony, offering all-round support to STEAM education in schools. Another eight sets of learning and teaching materials, covering aspects of architecture, surveying, planning, landscape architecture and engineering, will be launched progressively for use in classrooms in primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong starting from 2025/26 school year.

         Ten thematic zones are set up in the exhibition. In addition to the aforementioned two major projects, the exhibition also introduces the work, career paths and development prospect of various professional fields in the construction industry, helping students plan their careers. Interactive games with construction robots are also available.

         A series of talks are also organised in the exhibition, where speakers from government departments, tertiary institutions, training institutions, professional institutes and trade associations discuss topics covering innovative technology, Building Information Modelling, artificial intelligence, Modular Integrated Construction, Multi-trade integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing, etc.

         The Infrastructure x Education Exhibition is part of the Learning & Teaching Expo 2025 being held from July 2 to 4, at Booth R01, Hall 3B, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Expo Drive, Wan Chai. For more information about the exhibition, please visit: https://www.constructionhk.org/en/infrastructure-education/.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Construction industry joins hands with education sector to promote STEAM education (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The launching ceremony of the Infrastructure x Education Exhibition and the first phase of achievement of the STEAM UP project, jointly organised by the Development Bureau and the Construction Industry Council (CIC), was held today (July 3). This is the first time for the construction industry to collaborate with the education sector to organise a large-scale exhibition featuring infrastructure projects in Hong Kong to promote STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education related to the construction industry, thereby helping students apply STEAM knowledge through practical examples of infrastructure projects and encouraging the younger generation to join the construction industry.

         Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the construction industry and infrastructure involve many STEAM elements. The construction industry joins hands with the education sector to launch STEAM learning and teaching materials, which can make learning more effective. She hoped that, through this exhibition, infrastructure can tell the good stories of Hong Kong and share STEAM knowledge, which arouses students’ interest towards the construction industry and the exploration of STEAM knowledge.

         Other officiating guests at the launching ceremony were the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau; the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai; the Chairman of the CIC, Professor Thomas Ho; the Executive Director of the CIC, Mr Albert Cheng; and the Executive Director of Hong Kong Education City, Dr Tenny Lam.

         Hong Kong’s first 3-dimensional Infrastructure Map supporting STEAM education was launched at the ceremony, introducing 32 types of infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and the related STEAM knowledge. The Infrastructure Map will be exhibited in various districts in Hong Kong in the future to let members of the public understand the edges of the infrastructure of Hong Kong.
     
         The first set of architecture-themed learning and teaching materials of the STEAM UP project, including teachers’ lesson plans and teaching materials, as well as story books, games and e-learning platforms for students, was also rolled out at the ceremony, offering all-round support to STEAM education in schools. Another eight sets of learning and teaching materials, covering aspects of architecture, surveying, planning, landscape architecture and engineering, will be launched progressively for use in classrooms in primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong starting from 2025/26 school year.

         Ten thematic zones are set up in the exhibition. In addition to the aforementioned two major projects, the exhibition also introduces the work, career paths and development prospect of various professional fields in the construction industry, helping students plan their careers. Interactive games with construction robots are also available.

         A series of talks are also organised in the exhibition, where speakers from government departments, tertiary institutions, training institutions, professional institutes and trade associations discuss topics covering innovative technology, Building Information Modelling, artificial intelligence, Modular Integrated Construction, Multi-trade integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing, etc.

         The Infrastructure x Education Exhibition is part of the Learning & Teaching Expo 2025 being held from July 2 to 4, at Booth R01, Hall 3B, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Expo Drive, Wan Chai. For more information about the exhibition, please visit: https://www.constructionhk.org/en/infrastructure-education/.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New easier British citizenship route for Irish citizens launched

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    New easier British citizenship route for Irish citizens launched

    Irish people living in the UK can soon benefit from this new British citizenship route.

    Irish people living in the UK will soon be able to apply for British citizenship under a new easier, cheaper route, strengthening the unique relationship between the two countries.  

    Migration and Citizenship Minister Seema Malhotra visited Belfast today (3 July) to formally welcome the commencement of the British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024.  

    The new route, part of the act, makes it easier for Irish citizens to become British. Applicants will be subject to a more streamlined application process and will not be required to demonstrate knowledge of English language or sit the Life in the UK test. 

    The registration fee will be 50% cheaper than for other nationalities, at £723 for adults and £607 for children. Children looked after by the local authority will be processed free of charge, as will those who can credibly demonstrate they can’t afford the application fee. 

    Migration and Citizenship Minister Seema Malhotra said: 

    The UK and Ireland enjoy a close and continued shared history and geographic links that have fostered deep cultural connections and family ties across generations. 

    This new route represents the unique relationship between our two countries and builds upon the Common Travel Area arrangements that have benefited citizens of both nations for decades. 

    I am pleased the route will enable eligible Irish nationals who have made their home in the UK to fully participate in British society while maintaining their Irish citizenship.

    Under nationality birth rights in the Good Friday Agreement, people born in Northern Ireland to a British citizen, Irish citizen or a settled person have the right to hold British and Irish nationality.  

    From 22 July 2025, which is when the British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024 comes into force, Irish citizens living in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man will be able to apply for British citizenship under this new, easier route.  

    An Irish citizen will be able to register as a British citizen where: 

    • they can show they have been living in the UK for the previous 5 years 

    • during the 5 years, they must have not been absent for a total of more than 450 days 

    • during the final year, they must have not been absent for more than 90 days 

    • during the 5 years, they must have not been in breach of the immigration laws 

    • they are of good character

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission holds a 3-day regional consultation of national human rights institutions in West Africa, Abuja, Nigeria

    Source: APO


    .

    The Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS) of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, in partnership with the Network of National Human Rights Institutions in West Africa (NNHRI-WA), is holding the 7th Regional Consultation under the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations: The Role of NHRIs” taking place from 1st to 3rd July 2025 in Abuja, Nigeria.

    The Regional Consultation is aimed at enhancing the overall role of NHRIs towards the promotion and protection of human rights with added focus on protection of migrants and internally displaced people, implementation of regional and international human rights mechanisms, improving conditions of detention, human rights and reparative justice framework, and the shrinking civic space in West Africa.

    Welcoming participants to the Consultation, Dr. Anthony Ojukwu, SAN, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria (NHRC) expressed appreciation to the participants for honouring the invitation and commended the continued support and partnership of the ECOWAS Commission and the relevant UN systems (UNOWAS and UN-OHCHR) towards the successful organisation of the regional consultation. He further noted the escalating violations of human rights across West Africa occasioned by undemocratic changes of governments, shrinking civic spaces, conflicts, terrorist insurgency, forced displacements of populations and climate change. To this end, he urged for solidarity among NHRIs towards advancing a unified, stable, and human rights friendly West Africa.

    Delivering the Opening Remarks, Ambassador Abdel-Fatau MUSAH (Ph.D.), Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, represented by Mr Ebenezer Asiedu, Head of Democracy and Good Governance, expressed ECOWAS Commission’s appreciation to the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and particularly the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria for successfully hosting this regional consultation. He also congratulated the participants on commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of ECOWAS. While stressing the importance of reparatory justice for Africans and people of African descent to addressing historical injustices, in line with the theme of the Consultation, he noted that the conversation should embrace current realities of our societies as it relates to the enjoyment of rights by the Rights-holders and reparations of human rights violation in the region. Accordingly, he recommended the need for a Human Right-based approach to reparatory justice for both past and present injustice and human rights violations. To this end, he noted the Commission’s ongoing efforts to develop a regional transitional justice framework with a particular focus on the principle of reparatory justice. He therefore urged the participants to enrich the framework with their inputs and guidance on how human rights principles and role of National Human Rights Institutions can be further entrenched in transitional justice generally and reparatory justice in particular.

    Declaring the Regional Consultation open, Dr Salamatu H. Sulaiman, Chairperson of the Governing Board of the, National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria expressed her gratitude to participants on behalf of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. She emphasized the need for multi-stakeholders’ collaboration towards a unified agenda for reparative justice to address the needs of Africans, restore dignity and foster reconciliation. She therefore urged participants to take advantage of the consultation to make insightful contributions and renew their unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights in West Africa.

    Goodwill Messages from Mr Benjamin Hounton, Deputy Regional Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for West Africa Region and Ms. Barrie Lynne Freeman, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel commended the network for the annual consultation as a unique space for in-depth dialogue, peer-to-peer exchange that strengthen collaboration, ensure accountability and an opportunity to reflect on how the role of NHRI’s can be further enhanced to advance human rights across the subregion.

    Participants at the Regional Conference included Hon. Prince Lateef O. Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Nigeria, Dr Joseph Whittal, President of the NNHRI-WA and Commissioner for the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice CHRAJ, as well as members of the Governing Council of the Nigerian NHRC and Heads of NHRI’s of Member States.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO) convenes strategic communications workshop to fortify regional Lassa fever response and sensitization

    Source: APO


    .

    The West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO), in close collaboration with the Coalition Secretariat Partners (CSP), the ECOWAS Commission, and Member States, successfully concluded a pivotal two-day Strategic Communications Workshop in preparation for the 2nd Lassa Fever International Conference, held in Abuja, Nigeria. from June 30th to July 1st, 2025, the gathering aimed to create political will, advance prevention efforts, enhance preparedness and strengthen a unified regional response to Lassa Fever across West Africa.

    The workshop’s objectives included identifying and analysing communication gaps, fostering mutual understanding of each entity’s communication roles and responsibilities, developing a unified communication strategy for the 2nd Lassa Fever International Conference, defining clear communication protocols, and establishing a joint roadmap for sustained regional communications, collaboration, and sensitization.

    During the workshop, Dr. Virgil Lokossou, Acting Director of Health Services at WAHO, delivered the opening remarks on behalf of Dr. Assi Melchor, the Director General of WAHO. He emphasized the importance of putting in place effective communication tools, addressing specific Lassa Fever communication issues, and establishing a more visible regional platform for collaboration and decision-making. Dr. Lokossou stressed the need for increased awareness and prevention of the Lassa Fever threat, aligning strategies with scientific evaluation, and collectively developing a regional plan for the upcoming conference. He urged all participants to commit to this cause, working together to identify and address difficulties for the benefit of the entire region.

    At the conclusion of the two-day event, Dr. Sombie Issiaka, Acting Director of Public Health and Research at WAHO, provided the closing remarks on behalf of the Director General of WAHO. He expressed sincere appreciation to the Nigerian Watch team for their smooth collaboration in combating Lassa Fever and other emerging diseases, as well as for organizing the workshop. He also extended thanks to all communication experts from participating member states, the Boom Public Health Group, and the Corona Management Systems Group.

    Dr. Issiaka highlighted the significance of the coalition, emphasizing that all strategies discussed would move into the implementation stage, ensuring all stakeholders are effectively involved through clear communication in the fight against Lassa Fever. He thanked the Nigerian authorities as the host country, colleagues from WAHO and the ECOWAS Commission’s communication directorate for their support and collaboration, formally declaring the workshop closed and expressing anticipation for continued joint efforts. The workshop marks a significant step forward in ensuring a coordinated, impactful, and visible response to Lassa Fever across West Africa.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar, European External Action Service Hold Round of Political Consultations

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, July 03, 2025

    The 4th round of political consultationsآ between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European External Action Service (EEAS) was held Thursday in Doha.

    The Qatari side was headed by HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, and the European side was headed by HE EEAS Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs Olof Skoog.

    The political consultations discussed cooperation relations and ways to support and enhance them. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Judge President Mlambo recommended for Deputy Chief Justice

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Thursday, July 3, 2025

    The Judicial Service Commission has announced that it will recommend the Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Justice Dunstan Mlambo, for the position of Deputy Chief Justice.

    Interviews for the position were held over the past two days.

    “Following the public interview process, the JSC has deliberated and resolved to advise the President that Judge President D Mlambo is suitable for appointment as the Deputy Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa,” the JSC said in a short social media post.

    The position has been vacant since then Deputy Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya, became Chief Justice following the retirement of Chief Justice Raymond Zondo last year.

    In April this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa nominated four candidates for the position.

    Those candidates were:

    • Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Justice Dunstan Mlambo;
    • President of the Supreme Court of Appeal, Justice Mahube Molemela;
    • Judge President of the Free State High Court, Justice Cagney John Musi; and
    • Judge President of the Northern Cape High Court, Justice Lazarus Pule Tlaletsi.

    The President also initiated consultation with the JSC and political parties in the National Assembly in this regard. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: CertiK Cements Institutional Presence After CEO’s Strategic Engagements in Hong Kong

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CertiK, the largest Web3 security services provider, has strengthened its institutional foothold with the rollout of CertiK Institutional, a full-cycle suite of advisory and security solutions tailored for global regulators, financial institutions, banks, asset managers, enterprises and digital asset platforms.

    The announcement capped a two-day programme of high-level meetings and roundtables in Hong Kong, led by Co-Founder and CEO Prof. Ronghui Gu. These engagements deepen CertiK’s ties with the regulated financial sector and regulatory bodies.

    Institutional Engagement Underscores Market Demand for Trusted Blockchain Infrastructure

    On 27 and 30 June, Professor Gu held bilateral meetings, chaired a panel discussion, and a closed-door roundtable with senior executives from global banks, broker-dealers, and digital asset firms.

    Discussions centered on key institutional priorities: stablecoin risk frameworks, tokenization of real-world assets (RWA), compliance gaps, and the infrastructure needed to support regulated digital asset markets. Across all sessions, a clear consensus emerged that successful institutional adoption of blockchain depends on transparency, and real-time security infrastructure – areas where CertiK is already recognized as a trusted partner in multiple regulatory frameworks.

    CertiK also co-hosted a C-level panel with OSL, Hong Kong’s first licensed virtual asset trading platform. Titled “Global Outlook on Stablecoin & Tokenized Capital Markets,” the event featured speakers from OSL, HKT Digital Ventures, and Galaxy, and drew over 60 professionals from banking, legal, and fintech sectors. The panel explored tokenization, licensing models, and the path toward cross-border regulatory alignment—reinforcing CertiK’s position at the forefront of institutional Web3 strategy.

    CertiK Institutional Expertise: Purpose-built for Regulated Markets

    CertiK Institutional is a full-spectrum suite of advisory and technology solutions purpose-built for regulators, financial institutions and enterprises. It combines CertiK’s core strengths in blockchain security, auditing, and real-time monitoring to support risk management, compliance and tokenization in regulated environments worldwide.

    CertiK’s institutional offerings include:

    • Advisory, Licensing and Accreditation Support: CertiK provides end-to-end guidance on regulatory frameworks, licensing pathways, tokenization strategy, and assurance reporting. To strengthen internal readiness, CertiK also offers structured training and accreditation programs—designed to build institutional capabilities in compliance, risk, and digital asset operations.
    • Security and AML Compliance Consulting: A full-scope approach to blockchain security and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, that help uncover vulnerabilities, design action plans, and implement tools and disclosures that protect institutions. Our support includes proof-of-reserves verification to meet transparency standards, smart contract audits. Ongoing training ensures compliance teams stay aligned with evolving regulatory expectations.
    • SkyInsights and Skynet Monitoring: Meet global AML standards with SkyInsights v2, a powerful suite of tools for real-time Know Your Transaction (KYT) and Know Your Address (KYA) capabilities, built for institutions to meet global compliance requirements. Skynet provides continuous on-chain surveillance and anomaly detection—together offering a complete view of institutional compliance exposure.

    CertiK Anchors Institutional Growth in Hong Kong, Expands Worldwide

    CertiK has established Hong Kong as its strategic base for institutional and regulatory engagement in Asia and globally. As a selected participant in the Hong Kong government’s OASES initiative and an active member of the Cyberport network, CertiK works closely with regulators, financial institutions and technology partners to build compliant, secure Web3 infrastructure.

    Beyond Hong Kong, CertiK leverages its regional insights to advance global best practices. The firm regularly collaborates with regulators and industry bodies to shape policy frameworks that promote security, transparency, and institutional trust in blockchain ecosystems. This dual focus—deep local engagement and worldwide advocacy—positions CertiK to accelerate the safe, scalable adoption of digital assets for institutions around the globe.

    “CertiK is honored to support regulators, financial institutions and enterprises on their digital asset journey, with institutional-grade, compliance-ready web3 solutions,” said Prof. Ronghui Gu, CEO & Co-Founder, CertiK. “Auditability, resilience, and trust are non-negotiable for institutional blockchain adoption. CertiK’s technology meets the regulatory and operational standards demanded by the world’s leading financial players, and our recent engagements in Hong Kong confirm we’re already delivering the security and assurance they need.”

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government expands policies to create opportunities for women

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, says government will continue to develop policies that open doors and support sustainable livelihoods for women. 

    “Women, especially in rural areas and the informal sector, are still excluded from land, credit, capital, markets, procurement and the digital economy,” Chikunga said on Thursday.

    Addressing media ahead of her department’s Budget Vote at the Imbizo Centre in Cape Town, Chikunga said for many women in rural areas, there is no easy access to the internet, and information is difficult to get. Transportation and getting the right documentation also proves a challenge. 

    “We need simpler, more inclusive systems that meet women where they are, not where the system assumes them to be,” Chikunga said.

    A substantial amount of money from the department’s budget is used to uplift women, youth and people with disabilities.

    Chikunga said a proposal has been made for the establishment of a Disability Inclusion Working Group, which will be an additional Working Group to be established and discussed further at the level of the G20 by countries that will subsequently take up the chairship of the G20.

    “We have committed to taking the G20 to the people, so that it is truly ‘The People’s G20’, a G20 that listens, that includes, and that leaves behind a legacy of progress.

    “Our participation and activities in the EWWG [Empowerment of Women Working Group] reflect the lived realities of South African women, youth and persons with disabilities. It continues to also include diverse historically marginalised communities in rural areas, informal settlements, farms and townships.”

    Chikunga said they have visited Taung in the North West and Mkhondo in Mpumalanga to consult communities as part of a broader national process to ensure that the voices of women, youth and people with disabilities inform South Africa’s contributions to the G20. The similar visits will also be undertaken to other provinces.

    “As South Africa, we are approaching our G20 Presidency in the spirit of Ubuntu: ‘I am because we are’. This is to remind us that we are connected and we are stronger when we build together and leave no one behind.

    “We are in Solidarity – working together, across countries and communities, to find shared solutions. We speak of equality because it is fundamental that we fix the unfair systems that keep so many people, especially women, young people and persons with disabilities, trapped in challenges of climate change, unemployment, poverty, inequality, hunger and rising debt.”

    Laying the foundation for the nation to thrive

    Chikunga said no economy can function and no society can thrive when women are unsafe at home, at work, in schools and in public spaces.

    “Safety is not a side issue. It is the foundation of empowerment. We are strengthening governance and the legislative and programmatic response in addressing the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide. Addressing feminism requires all of us. Law enforcement must take its course,” the Minister said.

    Over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period, the department will continue focusing on enhancing the coordination of the national response to gender-based violence; advancing responsive planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation within government; protecting the rights of people with disabilities, and encouraging the participation of women, young people and people with disabilities in the economy.

    An estimated 76.6% (R2.3 billion) of the department’s budget over the medium-term is earmarked for transfers and subsidies to the National Youth Development Agency and the Commission for Gender Equality. 

    As part of South Africa’s Presidency of the G20, which runs until 30 November 2025, R5.3 million is set aside for the G20 women empowerment working group meetings in 2025/26. 

    Cabinet has approved additional allocations to the department’s baseline amounting to R66.4 million over the medium-term (R21.2 million in 2025/26, R22.1 million in 2026/27 and R23.1 million in 2027/28). These funds are intended to support the department’s operations, including public wage increases.  – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: North West engages with youngsters in agriculture

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, is embarking on a series of engagements with young people in agriculture across the province.

    According to the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the sessions aim to empower youth to take an active role in shaping the future of the sector, reflecting their commitment to supporting sustainable, youth-led growth in agriculture.

    The first leg of the district engagements kicked off on Monday, 30 June 2025, in Coligny, within the Ngaka Modiri Molema District. 

    The department said that at the heart of this focused intervention is the Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development (YARD) structure, whose elected leadership has been tasked with advancing youth representation and development at all levels of the sector.

    The rollout continues in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District on Friday, 4 July, at Mooilagte Farm in the Naledi Local Municipality. 

    This will be followed by engagements in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District on 11 July at Ga-Matsapola Farm, and in the Bojanala Platinum District on 14 July at the Moses Kotane Local Municipality.

    The initiative brings together key stakeholders, including the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), North West University Business School, the Small Enterprise Finance and Development Agency (SEFDA), AgriSETA, the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), commercial banks, and development finance institutions. 

    “The sessions serve as a gateway for young people to access critical information on funding, skills development, mentorship, and market access tools essential for building resilient and sustainable agri-enterprises.” 

    Held in partnership with local municipalities through the District Development Model (DDM), the engagements aim to ensure that the needs and aspirations of young farmers are integrated into local economic development plans.

    “In addition to dialogue and presentations, each session includes live demonstrations and planting activities, exposing participants to practical techniques and climate-smart agricultural methods.” 

    Addressing youth during the Coligny engagement held on Monday, Sambatha emphasised the department’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for youth in agriculture.

    “This is not a ceremonial exercise; it is a deliberate strategy to reposition young people as central drivers of agricultural growth and rural development. We are here to remove bottlenecks, unlock opportunities, and invest in future producers,“ Sambatha said.

    The department encourages all young people involved in farming, agri-processing, and rural enterprises to take full advantage of these sessions and the wide range of support offered through government and its partners. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Kenya: Withdrawal of Finance Bill 2024 an Opportunity for an Inclusive and Sustainable Dialogue

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Nairobi, Kenya, 26 June — Greenpeace Africa acknowledges President William Ruto’s decision to decline assenting to the Finance Bill 2024 in response to the widespread outcry from Kenyans. 

    We extend our deepest condolences to the families and communities who mourn their loved ones. The protection of human life and the right to peaceful protest are paramount.

    Greenpeace Africa strongly advocates for an alternative approach to future Finance Bills, based on the principles of fair taxation. Instead of imposing burdensome taxes on the struggling populace, we propose a tax policy targeting polluters’ profits. Corporations, oil and gas industries that contribute significantly to environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and climate crisis should bear financial responsibility for their actions.

    Taxing the super-rich and polluters rather than the poor aligns with the principles of environmental justice and ensures that those responsible for environmental damage, losses and damages contributing to the rising costs of climate adaptation, mitigation and resilience bear the greatest responsibility. We welcome the president’s call to engage the youth and encourage the government to work closely with all stakeholders to develop progressive socio-economic policies that promote environmental sustainability, social equity, economic resilience, and prioritize the well-being of the people.

    Greenpeace Africa remains committed to advocating for a just, equitable, and sustainable society. We support constructive dialogue between the government, the youth, and all concerned parties in Kenya.

    For more information, contact:

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the 68th session of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Spaces [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Excellencies,
    Dear colleagues,
    Champions of our shared cosmic future,
    Let me begin with a simple truth: every phone call you made to get here, every GPS route that guided your journey, every weather forecast that helped you pack – all of it depended on space.
    Space is not the final frontier. It is the foundation of our present.
    Without satellites orbiting overhead right now, global food systems would collapse within weeks. Emergency responders would lose their lifelines. Climate scientists would be flying blind. And our hopes of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals would be out of reach.
    This is why your work matters. This is why the work of this Committee – COPUOS – is not just important, but urgent.
    For over six decades, through shifting geopolitics and changing priorities, this Committee has consistently delivered.
    Five space treaties.
    Space sustainability guidelines.
    The Space 2030 Agenda.
    You don’t just talk about space governance – you create it.
    But today, we need to shift our focus to scale.
    The United Nations has identified six critical areas for SDG acceleration: food systems, energy transitions, digital connectivity, education and skills, environmental action, and jobs and social protection.
    Every single one depends on space technologies.
    This is a paradox when you consider that less than half of UN Member States have a satellite in orbit, yet all eight billion people on Earth benefit from space services daily.
    Through your work, and through UNOOSA, we can close this divide – not by putting a satellite in every nation’s hands, but by ensuring that the benefits of space technologies reach every community on our planet.
    Excellencies,
    I’m just coming from the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville, where the message was crystal clear: in an era of constrained investment, we must align capital with high-impact solutions.
    Space is one of them.
    But impact happens at every level – and I would like to share what I’ve seen.
    At the local level, UNOOSA’s programs are building the next generation of inclusive space leaders. They’re ensuring equal access for youth and women in developing countries, where small investments create enormous change. Through these programs, we’re enabling the next Carmen Chaidez, the next Kitaw Ejigu.
    At the national level, UNOOSA helps countries build their space capabilities from the ground up. Through space law workshops and direct support for emerging programs, nations develop the expertise they need to harness space for their own development priorities.
    UN-Spider shows what this looks like in practice. In Tonga, Tobago, and Ghana, satellite data is being used to create detailed digital models of entire cities. When disaster strikes, these virtual twins allow governments to see exactly where help is needed most, deploy resources much faster, and ultimately save more lives.
    Through innovative partnerships, UNOOSA has helped Kenya, Guatemala, Moldova, and Mauritius launch their first satellites. Each event was a catalyst – for new space agencies, developing robust legislation, and promoting gender equality in the space sector.
    Finally, at the international level, as reinforced by the Pact for the Future, we must work together to ensure COPUOS delivers the governance our rapidly evolving space environment demands of us.
    Excellencies,
    Here’s what’s happening right now: low-Earth orbit satellites are multiplying exponentially.
    Humanity is preparing to return to the Moon.
    We’re exploring beyond like never before.
    And your work has never been more vital and urgent.
    We stand at the threshold of potentially historic decision: UNISPACE IV in 2027.
    This isn’t just another conference. This could be the milestone that shapes the next sixty years of global space governance.
    And so I encourage us all to aim high. And aim even higher.
    The pressing space issues before us – traffic, debris, resources – each present both risk and opportunity for achieving the SDGs. Each requires the kind of multilateral cooperation that this Committee has proven it can deliver.
    We need a strong UNOOSA and a strong COPUOS to lead us into UNISPACE IV and beyond.
    But strength isn’t about institutions – it’s about the people within them and the systems that we run. As a practical next step, I encourage you to champion the implementation of the UNOOSA Gender Mainstreaming Toolkit for the Space Sector launched last year. Because when we leave talent on the sidelines, we will all lose.
    Let me leave you with one final message.
    The view from space shows no countries, no borders – only one shared planet, our common home.
    Let that aspect guide you as you build the governance frameworks for space exploration and use.
    Let us ensure that outer space remains safe and sustainable for everyone.
    Let us make space a catalyst for achieving our 2030 Goals with 5 years to go.
    And let us build governance frameworks that serve not just us, but generations to come.
    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/ZIMBABWE – “Training seminar” for judges and prosecutors canceled

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Harare (Agenzia Fides) – Under pressure from legal experts, lawyers, and members of civil society, an order requiring Zimbabwean judges to participate in a series of training courses at the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology of the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) party has been canceled. According to a government decree, the training courses, scheduled to take place from July 4 to 5, were to be delivered by Fulton Mangwanya, head of the Central Intelligence Organization, and Martin Rushwaya, Chief Secretary to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Cabinet, as well as by Ishmael Mada, Dean of the party’s Ideology School.The mandatory attendance of judges and prosecutors at a seminar at the ruling party’s school and the intervention of the head of the state intelligence agency caused widespread consternation in the country, as there were fears of an undermining of the independence of the judiciary and its politicization.Among the organizations that have intervened against the order is the Catholic Lawyers Association of Zimbabwe, which, in a statement released yesterday, July 2, expressed “deep concerns about the propriety of this so-called induction, which appears to be outside contemporary, salient, established legal and judicial principles in Zimbabwe and the region.”The statement states that it condemns “the politicization of judges’ training and call on all arms of the government to respect the principle of separation of powers and the rule of law, which are embedded in the supreme law of the country.” The Association of Catholic Jurists recalls the articles of the Constitution stating that “independence of the judiciary is not a cosmetic design but a deeply entrenched principle that forms the core of the justice system in Zimbabwe.” “Subjecting judges who must at all times be independent and be seen to be independent to an ideology of one party to the exclusion of others not only compromises the judiciary but attacks its independence and impartiality,” the statement continues. “We note that this is all happening at a time when the public confidence in the judiciary is low, given the widely held public perception that the Judiciary is captured by the Executive.” In this context, the Harare High Court yesterday ordered the arrest of Faith Zaba, editor of the Zimbabwe Independent, for publishing an article harshly critical of the president. The content of the article was described by Public Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu as “factually inaccurate and calculated to incite hostility toward the president among Zimbabweans.” (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 3/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –