Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Investigation into Admiral Sir Ben Key
Following a full investigation, Admiral Sir Ben Key’s behaviour has been found to have fallen far short of values and standards expected of Service Personnel.
This has resulted in termination of service and his commission.
Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said:
We expect the highest standards of behaviour from our Service Personnel and our Civil Servants.
We investigate all allegations of inappropriate behaviour and will take robust action against anyone found to have fallen short of our standards, regardless of their seniority.
The international community needs to support the Haitian government’s efforts to re-establish security and stability: UK statement at the UN Security Council
Statement by Fergus Eckersley, UK Minister Counsellor, at the Security Council meeting on Haiti.
Mr President, the UK condemns, without reservation, the violence that continues to undermine efforts to restore democratic rule in Haiti.
Coordinated gang attacks on civilian communities, public buildings and the security services continue to destabilise the Haitian state.
The gangs’ use of sexual and gender-based violence as a tool to control the population is abhorrent.
We stand with the survivors, and we fully support efforts by BINUH and OHCHR to strengthen law enforcement efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The international community, including this Council, need to support the Haitian government’s efforts to re-establish security and stability.
We thank the pen holders for their efforts, and we stand ready to renew the mandate of the Special Political Mission to Haiti.
It is clear that more is needed, and the Haitian security forces and the Multinational Security Support mission should be adequately supported in order to stabilise the security situation.
The UK pays tribute to Kenya for its continued leadership of the MSS mission in support of the Haitian Police.
It is important now for this Council to agree a process to consider the Secretary-General’s recommendations to deliver enhanced UN security support to Haiti, as a matter of urgency.
This action must be matched by Haitian efforts to advance the restoration of democratic rule.
We note the recent publication of decrees to facilitate constitutional reform and the establishment of an electoral framework.
This is a positive step, but more action is needed to lay the groundwork for inclusive and credible elections.
We recognise the complex security environment and the considerable pressures facing the Transitional Presidential Council, and we encourage Haitian authorities to continue this work, while prioritising security and justice efforts to stabilise the country.
The UK firmly rejects those seeking to undermine such a transition and is committed to maintaining accountability, including through the implementation of sanctions on those who seek to destabilise Haiti.
Mr President, the people of Haiti deserve stability and a lasting peace.
The World Health Organization (WHO) today has launched a major new initiative urging countries to raise real prices on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by at least 50% by 2035 through health taxes in a move designed to curb chronic diseases and generate critical public revenue. The “3 by 35” Initiative comes at a time when health systems are under enormous strain from rising noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), shrinking development aid and growing public debt.
The consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks are fueling the NCD epidemic. NCDs, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, account for over 75% of all deaths worldwide. A recent report shows that a one-time 50% price increase on these products could prevent 50 million premature deaths over the next 50 years.
“Health taxes are one of the most efficient tools we have,” said Dr Jeremy Farrar, Assistant Director-General, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention and Control, WHO. “They cut the consumption of harmful products and create revenue governments can reinvest in health care, education, and social protection. It’s time to act.”
The Initiative has an ambitious but achievable goal of raising US$1 trillion over the next 10 years. Between 2012 and 2022, nearly 140 countries raised tobacco taxes, which resulted in an increase of real prices by over 50% on average, showing that large-scale change is possible.
From Colombia to South Africa, governments that have introduced health taxes have seen reduced consumption and increased revenue. Yet many countries continue to provide tax incentives to unhealthy industries, including tobacco. Moreover, long-term investment agreements with industry that restrict tobacco tax increases can further undermine national health goals. WHO encourages governments to review and avoid such exemptions to support effective tobacco control and protect public health.
Strong collaboration is at the heart of the “3 by 35” Initiative’s success. Led by WHO, the Initiative brings together a powerful group of global partners to help countries put health taxes into action. These organizations offer a mix of technical know-how, policy advice, and real-world experience. By working together, they aim to raise awareness about the benefits of health taxes and support efforts at the national level.
Many countries have expressed interest in transitioning toward more self-reliant, domestically funded health systems and are turning to WHO for guidance.
The “3 by 35” Initiative introduces key action areas to help countries, pairing proven health policies with best practices on implementation. These include direct support for country-led reforms with the following goals in mind:
Cutting harmful consumption by reducing affordability;
Increase or introduce excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks to raise prices and reduce consumption, cutting future health costs and preventable deaths.
Raising revenue to fund health and development;
Mobilize domestic public resources to fund essential health and development programmes, including universal health coverage.
Building broad political support across ministries, civil society, and academia;
Strengthen multisectoral alliances by engaging ministries of finance and health, parliamentarians, civil society, and researchers to design and implement effective policies.
WHO is calling on countries, civil society, and development partners to support the “3 by 35” Initiative and commit to smarter, fairer taxation that protects health and accelerates progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)
WASHINGTON — Tonight, Speaker Johnson joined Sean Hannity on Fox News’ Hannity to discuss how House Republicans are preparing to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill and deliver President Trump’s full agenda to the American people.
“85 to 90% of this bill is the House generated product. The Senate made some modifications to it. They made it more conservative in some places and moderated it a little bit in others,” Speaker Johnson said. “But I’ll tell you what, as the President said so well today, this is no longer just a House bill, it’s not a Senate bill, it’s the bill of the hardworking American people.”
Watch the full interview here
On Republicans nearing the finish line for One Big Beautiful Bill:
85 to 90% of this bill is the House generated product. The Senate made some modifications to it. They made it more conservative in some places and moderated it a little bit in others. But I’ll tell you what, as the President said so well today, this is no longer just a House bill, it’s not a Senate bill, it’s the bill of the hardworking American people. And we are going to deliver it, as you said, Sean, by July 4th. It is so critically important. Remember, we got a clear mandate from the people in November to do this. President Trump ran on a clear set of priorities and promises, and we did as well. And this is the vehicle to deliver it. We’re almost there at that finish line.
We’re at the one-yard line in this game that’s been played over a year, really. We worked on this for about 14 months to get us to this point. We’re going to run it right up the middle and score for the American people. And I tell you what, everybody is going to benefit from this bill Sean. As you noted all those features, it’s the most conservative piece of legislation we’ve ever worked on. You need to mention at the same time that even though while we’re having historic tax cuts, we also have historic savings. We’re going to save $1.6 trillion for the American people. We’re going to cut down the size and scope of government, make it more efficient, make it work better for the people. They demand and deserve that, and the Republicans are delivering.
On the commonsense and popular work requirements provision:
But when you’re talking about Medicaid, we need to make sure the program is sustained for the people it’s intended for. That’s, you know, the elderly, the disabled, young pregnant mothers, down on the luck, for example. So that’s what we do by reinstituting work requirements. If you’re a young able-bodied man, you should be helping to pull the wagon, not riding it. And so we have this very popular provision that says if you’re going to receive Medicaid, you got to show that you’re working or at least looking for a job or volunteering in your community for 20 hours a week. It should be much more, but that is a minimal requirement that will reduce a lot of the abuse of the program and shore it up for the people that need it the most. We’re very proud of that. And by the way, the American people love it. It’s a commonsense provision.
On One Big Beautiful Bill adding “jet fuel” to the US economy:
Remember the first two years of the Trump administration. After the first two years, we brought about the greatest economy in the history of the world, it wasn’t even close, prior to COVID. Everybody was doing better. Literally every demographic in the country and every region of the country, because we had a combination of reduced taxes and reduced regulations. We’re going to do that again, this time and with this bill on steroids. It really will be jet fuel to the economy and everyone will benefit.
We’re estimating the average American will have an additional $10,000 take home pay because of this. You will have no taxes on your tips and on your overtime. Seniors will get a reduction in taxes, because of a credit they’ll have, those on social security. There’s something in this bill, literally, as the President said today, for everyone. It is great policy and is going to help the economy, help the American people, and fulfill the promises of the America First agenda.
What you need to know:California is delivering on its promises – significant investments in public safety help ensure safety in communities statewide with lower crime rates in 2024.
Sacramento, California – As the House of Representatives prepares to vote on President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Betrayal” that would slash public safety funding across the country, California continues to chart a different path — investing in real solutions that are delivering real results.
Newdatareleased by the California Department of Justice shows that in 2024, nearly every major crime category declined, including violent crime, property crime, homicides, aggravated assaults, motor vehicle theft, burglary, and robbery. In addition, total full-time criminal justice personnel increased 1.9% from 2023 to 2024.
In the wake of a nationwide spike in crime during the pandemic, California made the choice to invest — not abandon — our communities. While Republicans in Congress push a bill that would gut law enforcement funding and the President focuses on arresting farmworkers, California is showing what real public safety looks like: serious investments, strong enforcement, and real results.
Governor Gavin Newsom
Homicide rates
The 2024 homicide rate is now the second lowest since at least 1966. The overall number of homicides decreased by nearly 12% since 2023.
California’s homicide rates have historically been lower than many other states. According toCDC data from 2022, the latest year available for all states, Alabama’s homicide rate was 152% higher than California’s, Oklahoma’s was 41% higher and Arkansas’ was 100% higher.
Louisiana = 2nd worst homicide rate of any state in 2022
Alabama = 3rd worst homicide rate of any state in 2022
Arkansas = 6th worst homicide rate of any state in 2022
Tennessee = 10th worst homicide rate of any state in 2022
Oklahoma = 20th worst homicide rate of any state in 2022
California Trends: 2023 and 2024
Violent Crime Rate:↓Decreased 6%
Property Crime Rate: ↓Decreased 8.4%
Homicide Rate: ↓Decreased 10.4%
Aggravated Assault Rate: ↓Decreased 6.5%
Motor Vehicle Theft Rate: ↓Decreased 15.2%
Burglary Rate: ↓Decreased 9.1%
Robbery Rate: ↓Decreased 6.3%
Trends over time
Since 2019, property crime, arson, burglary, and robbery have all decreased in California. Burglary rate decreased 18.8% from 2019 to 2024, the largest decrease of all categories. During that same time period, property crime rate decreased 9.1%, arson rate decreased 8.7%, and robbery rate decreased 9.6%.
Firearms vs. public safety
According to the Homicide in California report, firearms were still the most common weapon used in a homicide when a weapon was identified. Of all crime-linked guns recovered in 2024, 65% were not associated with a California sale, meaning that they likely originated out of state, in jurisdictions with weaker gun safety laws. Year after year, California isranked as the #1 state in the countryfor its strong gun safety laws — along with some of the lowest rates of gun deaths — byGiffords Law CenterandEverytown for Gun Safety.
The data points are based on crimes reported to local law enforcement, which are then reported to CADOJ. The underlying data associated with the annual reports is available on OpenJusticehere.
Stronger enforcement. Serious penalties. Real consequences.
California hasinvested $1.6 billionsince 2019 to fight crime, help local governments hire more police, and improve public safety. In 2023, as part of California’sPublic Safety Plan, the Governor announced thelargest-everinvestment to combat organized retail crime in state history, an annual310%increase in proactive operations targeting organized retail crime, andspecialoperationsacrossthe state to fight crime and improve public safety.
Last August, Governor Newsom signed into lawthe most significant bipartisan legislation to crack down on property crime in modern California history.Building on the state’s robust laws and record public safety funding, these bipartisan bills offer new tools to bolster ongoing efforts to hold criminals accountable for smash-and-grab robberies, property crime, retail theft, and auto burglaries. While California’s crime rate remains at near historic lows, these laws help California adapt to evolving criminal tactics to ensure perpetrators are effectively held accountable.
As part of the state’s largest-ever investment to combat organized retail crime, Governor Newsom announced last year the statedistributed$267 million to 55 communities to help local communities combat organized retail crime. These funds have enabled cities and counties to hire more police, make more arrests, and secure more felony charges against suspects.
Saturating key areas
Working collaboratively to heighten public safety, the Governor tasked the California Highway Patrol to work with local law enforcement areas in key areas to saturate high-crime areas, aiming to reduce roadway violence and criminal activity in the area, specifically vehicle theft and organized retail crime. Since the inception of this regional initiative, there have been over 7,300 arrests, more than 5,000 stolen vehicles recovered and over 350 firearms confiscated acrossBakersfield,San BernardinoandOakland.
Press releases
Recent news
Jul 1, 2025
News What you need to know: After weeks of pressure from Governor Newsom, President Trump finally allowed California’s wildfire crews to return to the frontlines — but nearly 5,000 soldiers, including California National Guard members, remain sidelined in Los Angeles,…
Jul 1, 2025
News What you need to know: California has invested billions of dollars to fight fires and treated millions of acres to reduce wildfire risk, while the Trump administration continues to cut resources and neglect its responsibility to manage the 57% of the state’s…
Jun 30, 2025
News PLACER COUNTY — As California enters peak fire season, Governor Gavin Newsom will make an announcement with the potential to help prevent wildfires on over half of forest lands in the state.WHEN: Tuesday, July 1, at approximately 10 a.m.LIVESTREAM: Governor’s…
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Rich Mallett, Research Associate and Independent Researcher, ODI Global
Motorcycle-taxis are one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around Uganda’s congested capital, Kampala. But they are also the most dangerous. Though they account for one-third of public transport trips taking place within the city, police reports suggest motorcycles were involved in 80% of all road-crash deaths registered in Kampala in 2023.
Promising to solve the safety problem while also improving the livelihoods of moto-taxi workers, digital ride-hail platforms emerged a decade ago on the city’s streets. It is no coincidence that Uganda’s ride-hailing pioneer and long-time market leader goes by the name of SafeBoda.
Conceived in 2014 as a “market-based approach to road safety”, the idea is to give riders a financial incentive to drive safely by making digital moto-taxi work pay better. SafeBoda claimed at the time that motorcyclists who signed up with it would increase their incomes by up to 50% relative to the traditional mode of operation, in which riders park at strategic locations called “stages” and wait for passengers.
In the years since, the efforts of SafeBoda and its ride-hail competitors to bring safety to the sector have largely been deemed a success. One study carried out in 2017 found that digital riders were more likely to wear a helmet and less likely to drive towards oncoming traffic. Early press coverage wasparticularlyglowing, while recentacademicstudies continue to cite the Kampala case as evidence that ride-hailing platforms may hold the key to making African moto-taxi sectors a safer place to work and travel.
Is it all as clear-cut as this? In a new paper based on PhD research, I suggest not. Because at its core the ride-hail model – in which riders are classified as independent contractors who do poorly paid “gig work” rather than as wage-earning employees – undermines its own safety ambitions.
Speed traps
In my study of Kampala’s vast moto-taxi industry – estimated to employ hundreds of thousands of people – I draw on 112 in-depth interviews and a survey of 370 moto-taxi riders to examine how livelihoods and working conditions have been affected by the arrival of the platforms.
To date, there has been only limited critical engagement with how this change has played out over the past decade. I wanted to get beneath the big corporate claims and alluring platform promises to understand how riders themselves had experienced the digital “transformation” of their industry, several years after it first began.
One of the things I found was that, from a safety perspective, the ride-hail model represents a paradox. We can think of it as a kind of “speed trap”.
On one hand, ride-hail platforms try to moderate moto-taxi speeds and behaviours through managerial techniques. They make helmet use compulsory. They put riders through road safety training before letting them out onto the streets. And they enforce a professional “code of conduct” for riders.
In some cases, companies also deploy “field agents” to major road intersections around the city. Their task is to monitor the behaviour of riders in company uniform and, should they be spotted breaking the rules, discipline them.
On the other hand, however, the underlying economic structure of digital ride-hailing pulls transport workers in the opposite direction by systematically depressing trip fares and rewarding speed.
Under the “gig economy” model used by Uganda’s ride-hail platforms, the livelihood promise hangs not in the offer of a guaranteed wage but in the possibility of higher earnings. Crucially, it is a promise that only materialises if riders are able to reach and maintain a faster, harder work-rate throughout the day – completing enough jobs that pay “little money”, as one rider put it, to make the gig-work deal come good. Or, as summed up by another interviewee:
We are like stakeholders, I can say that. No basic salary, just commission. So it depends on your speed.
And yet, it is precisely these factors that routinely lead to road traffic accidents. Extensive research from across east Africa has shown that motorcycle crashes arestronglyassociated with financial pressure and the practices that lead directly from this, such as speeding, working long hours and performing high-risk manoeuvres. All are driven by the need to break even each day in a hyper-competitive informal labour market, with riders compelled to go fast by the raweconomics of their work.
Deepening the pressure
Ride-hail platforms may not be the reason these circumstances exist in the first place. But the point is that they do not mark a departure from them.
If anything, my research suggests they may be making things worse. According to the survey data, riders working through the apps make on average 12% higher gross earnings each week relative to their analogue counterparts. This is because the online world gets them more jobs.
But to stay connected to that world they must shoulder higher operating costs, for: mobile data (to remain logged on); fuel (to perform more trips); the use of helmets and uniforms (which remain company property); and commissions extracted by the platform companies (as much as 15%-20% per trip).
As soon as these extras are factored in, the difference completely disappears. The digital rider works faster and harder – but for no extra reward.
But it is important to remember that these are private enterprises with a clear bottom line: to one day turn a profit. As recentreports and my own thesis show, efforts to reach that point often alienate and ultimately repel the workers on whom these platforms depend – and whose livelihoods and safety standards they claim to be transforming.
A recent investment evaluation by one of SafeBoda’s first funders perhaps puts it best: it is time to reframe ride-hailing as a “risky vehicle” for safety reform in African cities, rather than a clear road to success.
– Uganda’s ride-hailing motorbike service promised safety – but drivers are under pressure to speed – https://theconversation.com/ugandas-ride-hailing-motorbike-service-promised-safety-but-drivers-are-under-pressure-to-speed-259310
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Peter M Macharia, Senior postdoctoral research fellow, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp
The lack of reliable information about health facilities across sub-Saharan Africa became very clear during the COVID-19 pandemic. Amid a surge in emergency care needs, information was lacking about the location of facilities, bed capacity and oxygen availability, and even where to find medical specialists. This data could have enabled precise assessments of hospital surge capacity and geographic access to critical care. Peter Macharia and Emelda Okiro, whose research focuses on public health and equity of health service access in low resource settings, share the findings of their recent study, co-authored with colleagues.
What are open health facility databases?
A health facility is a service delivery point where healthcare services are provided. The facilities can range from small clinics and doctor’s offices to large teaching and referral hospitals.
A health facility database is a list of all health facilities in a country or geographic area, such as a district. A typical database should assign each health facility a unique code, name, size, type (from primary to tertiary), ownership (public or private), operational status (working or closed), location and subnational unit (county or district). It should also record services (emergency obstetric care, for example), capacity (number of beds, for example), infrastructure (electricity availability, for example), contact information (address and email), and when this information was last updated.
The ideal method of compiling this list is to conduct a census, as Kenya did in 2023. But this takes resources. Some countries have compiled lists from existing incomplete ones. Senegal did this and so did Kenya in 2003 and 2008.
This list should be open to stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners and researchers. Health facility lists must be shared through a governance framework that balances data sharing with protections for data subjects and creators. In some countries, such as Kenya and Malawi, these listings are accessible through web portals without additional permission. In others, such facility lists do not exist or require extra permission.
Why are they useful to have?
Facility listings can serve the needs of individuals and communities. They also serve sub-national, national and continental health objectives.
At the individual level, a facility list offers a choice of alternatives to health seekers. At the community level, the data can guide decisions like where to place community health workers, as seen in Mali and Sierra Leone.
Health lists are useful when distributing commodities such as bed nets and allocating resources based on the health needs of the areas they serve. They help in planning for vaccination campaigns by creating detailed immunisation microplans.
By taking account of the disease burden, social dynamics and environmental factors, health services can be tailored to specific needs.
Detailed maps of healthcare resources enable quicker emergency responses by pinpointing facilities equipped for specific crises. Disease surveillance systems depend on continuously collecting data from healthcare facilities.
At the continental level, lists are crucial for a coordinated health system response during pandemics and outbreaks. They can facilitate cross-border planning, pandemic preparedness and collaboration.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, these lists informed where to put additional resources such as makeshift hospitals or transport programmes for adults over 60 years of age.
The lists are used to identify vulnerable populations at risk of emerging pathogens and populations that can benefit from new health facilities.
Many problems arise if we don’t know where health facilities are or what they offer. Healthcare planning becomes inefficient. This can result in duplicate facility lists and the misallocation of resources, which leads to waste and inequities.
We can’t identify populations that lack services. Emergency responses weaken due to uncertainty about where best to move patients with specific conditions.
Resources are wasted when there are duplicate facility lists. For example, between 2010 and 2016, six government departments partnered with development organisations, resulting in ten lists of health facilities in Nigeria.
In Tanzania, over 10 different health facility lists existed in 2009. Maintained by donors and government agencies, the function-specific lists didn’t work together to share information easily and accurately. This prompted the need for a national master facility list.
What needs to happen to build one?
A comprehensive list of health facilities can be compiled through mapping exercises or from existing lists. The health ministry should take responsibility for setting up, developing and updating this list.
Partnerships are crucial for developing facility lists. Stakeholders include donors, implementing and humanitarian partners, technical advisors and research institutions. Many of these have their own project-based lists, which should integrate into a centralised facility list managed by the ministry. The health ministry must foster a transparent environment, encouraging citizens and stakeholders to contribute to enhancing health facility data.
Political and financial commitment from governments is essential. Creating and maintaining a proper list requires significant investment. Expertise and resources are necessary to keep it updated.
A commitment to open data is a necessary step. Open access to these lists makes them more complete, reliable and useful.
– How far is your closest hospital or clinic? Public health researchers explain why Africa needs up-to-date health facility databases – https://theconversation.com/how-far-is-your-closest-hospital-or-clinic-public-health-researchers-explain-why-africa-needs-up-to-date-health-facility-databases-259190
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Pius Siakwah, Senior Research Fellow, Institute of African Studies, University of Ghana
Narendra Modi’s trip to Ghana in July 2025, part of a five-nation visit, is the first by an Indian prime minister in over 30 years. The two countries’ relationship goes back more than half a century to when India helped the newly independent Ghana set up its intelligence agencies. Ghana is also home to several large Indian-owned manufacturing and trading companies. International relations scholar Pius Siakwah unpacks the context of the visit.
What is the background to Ghana and India’s relationship?
It can be traced to links between Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president, and his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1957. It is not surprising that the Indian High Commission is located near the seat of the Ghana government, Jubilee House.
Nkrumah and Nehru were co-founders of the Non-Aligned Movement, a group of states not formally aligned with major power blocs during the cold war. Its principles focused on respect for sovereignty, neutrality, non-interference, and peaceful dispute resolution. It was also a strong voice against the neo-colonial ambitions of some of the large powers.
The movement emerged in the wave of decolonisation after the second world war. It held its first conference in 1961 under the leadership of Josip Bros Tito (Yugoslavia), Gamal Abdel Nasser (Egypt) and Sukarno (Indonesia) as well as Nehru and Nkrumah.
The relationship between Ghana and India seemingly went into decline after the overthrow of Nkrumah in 1966, coinciding with the decline of Indian presence in global geopolitics.
In 2002, President John Kufuor re-energised India-Ghana relations. This led to the Indian government’s financial support in the construction of Ghana’s seat of government in 2008.
Though the concept of the Non-Aligned Movement has faded this century, its principles have crystallised into south-south cooperation. This is the exchange of knowledge, skills, resources and technologies among regions in the developing world.
South-south cooperation has fuelled India-Ghana relations. Modi’s diplomatic efforts since 2014 have sought to relaunch India’s presence in Africa.
In recent times, India has engaged Africa through the India–Africa Forum Summit. The first summit was held in 2008 in New Delhi with 14 countries from Africa. The largest one was held in 2015, while the fourth was postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19. The summit has led to 50,000 scholarships, a focus on renewable energy through the International Solar Alliance and an expansion of the Pan-African e-Network to bridge healthcare and educational gaps. Development projects are financed through India’s EXIM Bank.
India is now one of Ghana’s major trading partners, importing primary products like minerals, while exporting manufactured products such as pharmaceuticals, transport and agricultural machinery. The Ghana-India Trade Advisory Chamber was established in 2018 for socio-economic exchange.
Modi’s visit supports the strengthening of economic and defence ties.
The bilateral trade between India and Ghana moved from US$1 billion in 2011-12 to US$4.5 billion in 2018-19. It then dipped to US$2.2 billion in 2020-21 due to COVID. By 2023, bilateral trade amounted to around US$3.3 billion, making India the third-largest export and import partner behind China and Switzerland.
Indian companies have invested in over 700 projects in Ghana. These include B5 Plus, a leading iron and steel manufacturer, and Melcom, Ghana’s largest supermarket chain.
India is also one of the leading sources of foreign direct investment to Ghana. Indian companies had invested over US$2 billion in Ghana by 2021, according to the Ghana Investment Promotion Center.
What are the key areas of interest?
The key areas of collaboration are economic, particularly:
energy
infrastructure (for example, construction of the Tema to Mpakadan railway line)
defence
technology
pharmaceuticals
agriculture (agro-processing, mechanisation and irrigation systems)
industrial (light manufacturing).
What’s the bigger picture?
Modi’s visit is part of a broader visit to strengthen bilateral ties and a follow-up to the Brics Summit, July 2025 in Brazil. Thus, whereas South Africa is often seen as the gateway to Africa, Ghana is becoming the opening to west Africa.
Modi’s visit can be viewed in several ways.
First, India as a neo-colonialist. Some commentators see India’s presence as just a continuation of exploitative relations. This manifests in financial and agricultural exploitation and land grabbing.
Second, India as smart influencer. This is where the country adopts a low profile but benefits from soft power, linguistic, cultural and historical advantages, and good relationships at various societal and governmental levels.
Third, India as a perennial underdog. India has less funds, underdeveloped communications, limited diplomatic capacity, little soft power advantage, and an underwhelming media presence compared to China. China is able to project its power in Africa through project financing and loans, visible diplomatic presence with visits and media coverage in Ghana. Some of the coverage of Chinese activities in Ghana is negative – illegal mining (galamsey) is an example. India benefits from limited negative media presence but its contributions in areas of pharmaceuticals and infrastructure don’t get attention.
Modi will want his visit to build on ideas of south-south cooperation, soft power and smart operating. He’ll want to refute notions that India is a perennial underdog or a neo-colonialist in a new scramble for Africa.
In 2025, Ghana has to navigate a complex geopolitical space.
– Ghana and India: Narendra Modi’s visit rekindles historical ties – https://theconversation.com/ghana-and-india-narendra-modis-visit-rekindles-historical-ties-260281
In a move aimed at enhancing service delivery, government has announced a substantial budget allocation for Cooperative Governance, amounting to R410.9 billion over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period.
The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, announced that a staggering 96.7% of this budget is earmarked for intergovernmental transfers and support to various entities.
“This significant investment will enable us to implement critical initiatives that deliver tangible and measurable improvements in the lives of our people,” he said during the budget announcement on Wednesday.
He announced that the budget allocation is focused on ensuring that every South African benefits from this allocation, particularly in underserved communities.
In addition to the allocations for Cooperative Governance, Vote 15: Traditional Affairs, will see an appropriated budget of R195 530 million for the fiscal year 2025/26.
Within this allocation, Hlabisa said 24%, which is approximately R46.927 million, is specifically designated for transfers and subsidies, including a dedicated fund for the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious, and Linguistic Communities.
The Minister recognised the vital role that traditional leadership plays in cultural preservation and community cohesion.
He believes that the budget reflects government’s commitment to supporting this crucial sector and ensuring that their voices are part of the national discourse.
The budget presentation and engagement form part of Parliament’s oversight function, providing a platform to transparently present the department’s financial allocations and strategic direction for the 2025/26 financial year.
The budget vote presentation detailed key areas of expenditure, offering a comprehensive breakdown of how the department’s resources will be allocated to drive impactful governance.
The Minister highlighted that a key component of the government’s reform agenda is the comprehensive review of the 1998 White Paper on Local Government, initiated on 19 May 2025.
This review is part of a strategy to modernise local governance structures and improve service delivery amid challenges like urban growth and youth unemployment.
“Through this review, we are committed to creating a local government system that is responsive to the needs of all South Africans and that delivers quality services to our communities.”
The Minister explained that the review’s importance extends beyond governance and embodies a commitment to socio-economic development, emphasising inclusivity in community engagement.
Empowering communities
He announced that government aims to rectify historical imbalances by providing a platform for the voices of informal traders, women, youth, and rural communities.
In response to the high demand for broader community engagement on the discussion document concerning the Review of the 1998 White Paper on Local Government (WPLG), the submission deadline for the review has been extended to 31 July 2025.
In addition to governance reforms, government is advancing targeted interventions in distressed municipalities, focusing on infrastructure maintenance and development support.
As part of this initiative, the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) is dedicated to 10 distressed municipalities, addressing fundamental issues such as outstanding debt resolution and improving governance structures.
“We reiterate that for us to make an impact in addressing the challenges at the local government sphere, we should eradicate working in silos, as espoused by the District Development Model (DDM),” said Hlabisa.
He said the DDM remains government’s flagship intergovernmental planning, coordination, and service delivery strategy, bringing all three spheres of government around one table to address the specific challenges across the 52 districts and metros.
In addition, he announced that the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) is set to accelerate infrastructure delivery, with an allocation of R493.8 million to support critical projects in priority municipalities.
Hlabisa stated that the reallocation of R244.7 million from the MIG to the Integrated Urban Development Grant (IUDG) will promote integrated urban planning and development in growth areas.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Systems Improvement Grant (MSIG) is increasing from R151.1 million in 2025/26 to R165.3 million in 2027/28 to strengthen municipal systems and improve intergovernmental planning and budgeting under the DDM.
The Minister said collaboration with National Treasury is underway to establish a municipal debt relief framework, aimed at assisting municipalities in managing debt and enhancing financial sustainability.
With these substantial budget allocations and a renewed focus on local governance reforms, he stressed that government is positioning itself to create a responsive and effective local government system for all South Africans.
Hlabisa said the overarching goal remains clear, which includes delivering quality services that foster community development and resilience in democracy. – SAnews.gov.za
Albertans out for a spin on a party bike or tavern tour will soon be able to sip locally made beers and spirits. Alberta’s government is updating the rules to give small liquor producers the green light to serve their own products on party bikes, removing an outdated barrier that had prevented local producers from advertising their own brands.
This is one of several red tape reduction changes to the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Regulation (GLCR) aimed at making life easier for small businesses and expanding responsible choices for consumers.
“We are proud that these amendments not only cut red tape in the retail segment of the liquor marketplace, but also directly open more opportunities for small manufacturers to grow their businesses.”
More freedom to grow: Liquor and cannabis reforms
In addition to the changes to party bikes, Alberta is making it easier for liquor retailers to set up shop in underused commercial space. Businesses that own or lease large buildings can now carve out a separate liquor store within their space, so long as it has its own entrance and full floor-to-ceiling walls separating it from other retail operations.
Alberta’s government is also rolling out a long-awaited change for cannabis producers: federally licensed cultivators and processors will now be able to apply for a retail licence to sell their products directly from the same property, commonly known as “farm-gate” sales. This move aligns Alberta with other provinces and gives consumers more access to homegrown cannabis products, while supporting licensed growers.
These targeted reforms are part of Alberta’s broader push to cut red tape, reduce regulatory burden, and promote a more competitive marketplace across the province.
Quick facts
Alberta’s retail liquor industry is robust, with more than 35,000 products available across more than 1,600 retail stores
Larger companies with other retail stores, operate multiple retail stores that have a liquor store on site, but in a separate building.
There are 752 licenced cannabis retail stores in Alberta.
There are 2,356 licensed cannabis products for sale in the province.
All cannabis retailers must be licensed by AGLC.
Licensed producers are regulated by Health Canada.
Nova Scotia has earned the highest score from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), leading the other provinces and territories on removing internal trade barriers and mutually recognizing the goods, services and registered workers of reciprocating regions.
The Province received the overall top score of 9.4 (A grade) in CFIB’s annual interprovincial co-operation report card, up from a C the previous year.
“I’m thrilled Nova Scotia is being recognized for making things better for businesses and workers, and I hope it continues to encourage other provinces and territories to join us and make free trade a reality, nationwide,” said Premier Tim Houston. “I won’t stop working in the best interests of hard-working Nova Scotians, and this government will continue to push to advance mutual recognition policies, cut red tape and make it easier for businesses and people to thrive in Nova Scotia.”
CFIB’s report credits Nova Scotia’s Free Trade and Labour Mobility within Canada Act for sparking a wave of action from other governments, including the federal government, Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, British Columbia and Quebec, which will improve the flow of goods and services.
Other key accomplishments:
The Free Trade and Mobility within Canada Act automatically recognizes goods, services and certified workers from other parts of Canada. Nova Scotia also played a lead role in the creation of the Atlantic Physicians Registry, is participating in the mutual recognition pilot project for the transportation sector and working toward a mutual recognition agreement on consumer goods through the Committee on Internal Trade.
Effective today, July 2, the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency will automatically recognize all provincial certifications for the Red Seal skilled trades from Alberta and Quebec. Workers from those provinces who hold provincial certifications without a Red Seal endorsement can now work in Nova Scotia without any further applications or approvals.
Nova Scotia was among the first to implement interprovincial direct-to-consumer sales for alcoholic beverages, which took effect June 26.
In terms of labour mobility, in 2023, 71 per cent of regulatory bodies issued a decision for interprovincial applicants in good standing within five days and 81 per cent issued a decision within 10 days.
Nova Scotia recently announced new regulations that allow more types of commercial trucks and other passenger vehicles to enter and operate in the province, supporting the movement of goods and services across the country.
The Province has announced its intentions to amend the Nova Scotia Building Code Regulations to remove Nova Scotia-specific requirements for off-site construction.
Quotes:
“Nova Scotia needs more skilled trades professionals. By recognizing provincial trade certifications from Quebec and Alberta, we’re helping people start jobs faster – without extra paperwork or delays. That’s a win for apprentices, employers and our economy.” — Michelle Bussey, CEO, Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency
“I’ve been so impressed with the leadership of Nova Scotia, of the leaders and everyone in government, and also it being an occasion for whole of government reform. I think a lot of governments can look to Nova Scotia and see what bold change can bring. When you introduce this sort of legislation, it boosts export volumes by up to 40 per cent. It really does matter. Canadians have been working for free trade since 1867. This is the biggest opportunity since then.” — Ryan Manucha, research fellow, C.D. Howe Institute; expert on interprovincial trade in Canada
Quick Facts:
more than $530 billion worth of goods and services moves across provincial and territorial borders every year – equal to 18 per cent of Canada’s gross domestic product (GDP)
interprovincial exports contribute about 17 per cent of Nova Scotia’s GDP and make up about half of Nova Scotia’s total exports (about 49 per cent of all goods and services)
in 2023, the value of Nova Scotia’s interprovincial exports was more than $10 billion, and the value of Nova Scotia’s interprovincial trade was nearly $29 billion
more than 40 per cent of Canadian businesses participate in internal trade by buying or selling goods across provincial or territorial borders
according to CFIB, removing internal trade barriers could grow Canada’s economy by as much as $200 billion annually in the long run, or about $5,100 per person
Additional Resources:
The State of Internal Trade: Canada’s Interprovincial Cooperation Report Card, 2025 edition: https://www.cfib-fcei.ca/en/research-economic-analysis/state-of-internal-trade-canadas-interprovincial-cooperation-report-card
Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency: https://www.nsapprenticeship.ca/tradespersons/trade-certificates
Free Trade and Mobility within Canada Act: https://nslegislature.ca/sites/default/files/legc/statutes/free%20trade%20and%20mobility%20within%20canada.pdf
DETROIT – Today, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced criminal charges and civil resolutions in three cases in connection with alleged schemes to unlawfully distribute controlled substances and defraud federal health care programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. The charges were filed in federal court and are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action. The criminal charges stem from the sale of controlled substance prescriptions in exchange for cash. The civil cases resolve alleged violations of the False Claims Act by several health care providers.
“Today’s record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown sends a crystal-clear message to criminal actors, both foreign and domestic, intent on preying upon our most vulnerable citizens and stealing from hardworking American taxpayers: we will find you; we will prosecute you, and we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” 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.”
All the cases 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 intended loss 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. The United States has seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets in connection with the takedown.
The criminal defendants charged in the Eastern District of Michigan were involved in a conspiracy to unlawfully distribute over 1.9 million commonly diverted controlled substance prescriptions for Oxycodone, Percocet, and Norco. The civil resolutions target $6 million in fraud on Medicare and Medicaid, returning much of those funds to the impacted federal programs.
The Eastern District of Michigan, in particular, worked with the Department’s Criminal Division, Civil Frauds, and the following law enforcement organizations to investigate, prosecute, and resolve the cases included as part of the Department’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and FBI.
In addition, the Fraud Section’s Midwest Strike Force charged four defendants in the Eastern District of Michigan. In particular, law enforcement and prosecutors in the Eastern District of Michigan were involved in Operation Gold Rush, which targeted the attempt by foreign actors to steal more than $10 billion from the Medicare program. Click on the following link for more information about the charged cases: https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit/2025-national-hcf-case-summaries
United States Attorney Gorgon said, “We are proud to partner with the Fraud Section Healthcare Fraud Strike Force to protect patients and preserve the integrity of our healthcare system. This collaboration strengthens our ability to identify and stop fraudulent activity so that resources are used to support care for Americans—not exploitation. Healthcare fraud will not be tolerated.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office charged and resolved the following matters:
Usman Ahmad, R.Ph. 66 of Lake, Orion, Michigan; Durand Bynum, 46 of Canton, Michigan; Ebony Daniels, 33 of Eastpointe, Michigan; and Allen Satawhite, 37 of Detroit, were charged in a superseding indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute controlled substances in connection with their roles in an unlawful scheme to distribute Schedule II controlled substances Oxycodone, Oxycodone-Acetaminophen (Percocet); and Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen (Norco). As alleged in the indictment, the owner of P & A Aftercare, located in Southfield, Michigan, hired several doctors to issue controlled substance prescriptions for a cadre of “fake” patients, without medical necessity and outside the scope of professional medical practice, in exchange for cash payments. The “fake” patients were recruited by Bynum, Daniels, Satawhite and others. Ahmad owned and operated Detroit Hoover Pharmacy, in Detroit, Michigan. He used the pharmacy to engage in a scheme and pattern of illegal conduct involving the unlawful distribution of prescription drug-controlled substances issued by the doctors at P & A Aftercare. Specifically, Ahmad distributed prescription drugs from the pharmacy illegally, outside the course of usual professional pharmacy practice and for no legitimate medical purpose. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys for the Eastern District of Michigan Regina R. McCullough and Philip A. Ross.
“The indictment of four individuals for their alleged roles in conspiracy to illegally distribute prescription drugs reflects the FBI’s unyielding efforts to investigate and disrupt those who violate federal law,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Exploiting the well-being of our community and the healthcare system for personal gain will not be tolerated. The alleged actions betray public trust and divert critical resources. I also want to thank the members from our FBI Detroit Field Office and federal partners at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General for their continued work to uncover and dismantle these illegal schemes.”
“The illegal prescribing and distribution of controlled substances—particularly opioids—by health care professionals puts the health and safety of our communities at serious risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to collaborate closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute these egregious allegations.”
Villa Financial Services LLC, Villa Olympia Investment LLC, and six southeast Michigan Villa nursing homes – The Ambassador, Father Murray, Imperial, Regency, St. Joseph’s and Westland – have agreed to pay the United States and the State of Michigan a total of $4,500,000, to resolve a civil qui tam lawsuit alleging that they violated the False Claims Act by systematically failing to provide services to nursing home residents and/or providing materially and grossly substandard services to nursing home residents. Among other things, the United States alleged that the facilities failed to have a sufficient number of appropriately trained staff possessing satisfactory skill levels to adequately care for the residents. The United States also alleged that the facilities failed to take adequate measures to prevent, control, and provide care related to infections. In addition, the United States alleged that the facilities failed to take adequate measures to prevent and follow appropriate protocols related to resident falls. In connection with the settlement, Villa Financial Services LLC, Villa Olympia Investment LLC, and the six nursing homes will enter into a five-year quality-of-care Corporate Integrity Agreement (CIA) with HHS-OIG. Under the CIA, the settling companies are required to retain an independent quality monitor to review the companies’ delivery of care and evaluate their ability to prevent, detect, and respond to patient care problems. The case is being jointly prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie Wizner of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan and Trial Attorney Kelly McAuliffe of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Commercial Litigation Branch – Fraud Section, in coordination with the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Health Care Fraud Division.
Wahid Makki, 62, and his spouse, Zainab (aka Zeinab) Makki, 62, of Dearborn Heights, together with the two pharmacies they operated, Kirtland Corp. aka New Millennium Drugs and Western Wayne Pharmacy, LLC, have agreed to pay the United States and the State of Michigan $1,500,000 to resolve a civil qui tam lawsuit alleging that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to the Medicare and Medicaid Programs for prescription drugs that New Millenium Drugs and Western Wayne Pharmacy billed to the Programs, but never dispensed. In addition, Wahid Makki has agreed to his exclusion from the Medicare, Medicaid, and all other federal health care programs for 10 years. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie Wizner of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, in coordination with the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Health Care Fraud Division.
The investigation, prosecution and resolution of these matters illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
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. The claims resolved by the civil settlements are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
In June 2025, the foreign-exchange reserve increased by kr. 5.5 billion to kr. 666.4 billion. The increase reflects Danmarks Nationalbank’s net purchase of foreign exchange for kr. 4.6 billion, and the central government’s net borrowing of foreign debt for kr. 0.8 billion, cf. table 1.
For settlement in June, Danmarks Nationalbank has not intervened in the foreign exchange market.
Danmarks Nationalbank’s net foreign-exchange purchases and the change in the foreign-exchange reserve – table 1
Kr. billion
June 2025
January – June 2025
Danmarks Nationalbank’s interventions* to purchase foreign exchange, net
0.0
0.0
Other**
4.6
10.3
Danmarks Nationalbank’s net foreign-exchange purchases
4.6
10.3
The central government’s net foreign borrowing***
0.8
1.7
Change in the foreign-exchange reserve
5.5
12.0
Note: Details may not add because of rounding and previously published figure may have been revised. All transactions as per settlement date.
* Intervention takes place when Danmarks Nationalbank purchases and sells foreign exchange for Danish kroner in the foreign-exchange market in order to stabilise the exchange rate.
** Comprises e.g. interest accrued on the foreign-exchange reserve, the central government’s net payments in foreign exchange, and changes in the banks’ deposits in euro-denominated accounts at Danmarks Nationalbank.
*** Including net payments to the central government in foreign exchange as a result of currency swaps.
DEVELOPMENT IN LIQUIDITY
In June, the central government’s net financing requirement amounted to kr. -10.2 billion. Since the turn of the year, the central government’s net financing requirement has been kr. -61.0 billion, cf. table 2.
The net position of the banks and mortgage-credit institutes vis-à-vis Danmarks Nationalbank decreased by kr. 3.9 billion in June, to an outstanding amount of kr. 211.1 billion. In June, the central government’s liquidity impact decreased the net position by kr. 9.6 billion.
Impact of various factors on the net position of the banks and mortgage-credit institutes via-a-vis Danmarks Nationalbank – table 2
Kr. billion
June 2025
January – June 2025
The central government’s net financing
-10.2
-61.0
Redemption on domestic central-government debt*
2.3
32.6
Net bond purchases by the government funds and own portfolio and financing of social housing, private care housing and KommuneKredit
1.0
-1.7
Other**
0.2
1.5
The central government’s gross domestic financing requirement
-6.7
-28.7
The central government’s gross domestic borrowing***
2.9
33.3
The central government’s liquidity impact
-9.6
-62.0
Danmarks Nationalbank’s net foreign-exchange purchases
4.6
10.3
Danmarks Nationalbank’s net bond purchases
0.6
-0.2
Other factors****
0.5
2.7
Change in net position
-3.9
-49.3
Note: Details may not add because of rounding and previously published figure may have been revised. All transactions as per settlement date.
* Including krone-denominated payments by the central government in currency swaps.
** Comprises foreign net financing requirement and changes in net collateral for the government’s swap portfolio.
*** Gross long-term borrowing, net short-term borrowing and krone-denominated payments to the central government in currency swaps.
**** Comprises e.g. changes in banknotes and coins in circulation.
DANMARKS NATIONALBANK’S INTEREST RATES
Since 6 June 2025 the discount rate has been 1.6 pct. p.a., since 6 June 2025 the current-account interest rate has been 1.6 pct. p.a., since 6 June 2025 the lending rate has been 1.75 pct. p.a. and since 6 June 2025 the rate of interest on certificates of deposit has been 1.6 pct. p.a.
Enquiries can be directed to press advisor Teis Hald Jensen on tel. +45 3363 6066.
BALANCE SHEET OF DANMARKS NATIONALBANK 30 JUNE 2025
Assets
2025
2025
1000 kr.
30/06
31/05
Stock of gold
40,309,044
40,309,044
Foreign assets
575,849,906
566,881,908
Claims on the International Monetary Fund
59,210,661
59,637,170
Claims related to banks’ and mortgage credit institutes’ TARGET accounts in ECB
31,934
22,525
Monetary-policy lending
16,400,000
30,000,000
Other lending
1,300,454
994,843
– Banks’1)
1,300,454
994,843
– Miscellaneous loans
–
–
Domestic bonds
33,576,456
32,964,923
Financial fixed assets, etc.
131,550
131,550
Tangible and intangible fixed assets
785,476
784,982
Other assets
4,724,202
4,824,247
732,319,683
736,551,192
1) Other lending to banks include loans for cash deposits.
Liabilities
2025
2025
1000 kr.
30/06
31/05
Banknotes
46,398,984
46,638,763
Coins
6,116,859
6,082,989
Monetary-policy deposits
227,520,659
244,974,905
– Current accounts
227,520,659
244,974,905
– Certificates of deposit
–
–
Other deposits
15,128,693
15,143,360
– Deposits related to banks’ and mortgage credit institutes’ TARGET accounts in ECB
31,934
22,525
– Other deposits from banks’ and mortgage credit institutes’
583,214
871,172
– Miscellaneous deposits
14,513,545
14,249,663
Central government
275,439,377
265,043,218
Foreign liabilities
8,973,271
5,898,251
Counterpart of Special Drawing Rights allocated by the IMF (SDR)
45,039,776
45,039,776
Other liabilities
6,863,139
6,891,005
Capital and reserves
100,838,925
100,838,925
732,319,683
736,551,192
Note: The monthly balance sheet is calculated at beginning of year values +/- accumulated transaction values. The monthly balance does not include value adjustments and accruals, as these are only calculated at year-end, cf. Danmarks Nationalbank’s accounting principles.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Moscow, July 2 /Xinhua/ — Russia supports China in protecting its unity and territorial integrity, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said at a briefing on Wednesday, answering a question from a Xinhua correspondent about the 14th Dalai Lama’s attempts to split China and undermine stability in the Xizang Autonomous Region.
A Xinhua reporter asked at a briefing: “The 14th Dalai Lama announced his intention to deliver a speech on the issue of reincarnation on his birthday /July 6/. The Chinese side has consistently believed that the 14th Dalai Lama is a political exile who is engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the religious flag and has no right to represent the Xizang people. How does the Russian side feel about the Dalai Lama’s attempt to split China and undermine the stability of Xizang using “reincarnation”? Does Russia support China’s sovereign position on Xizang issues?”
“I would still concentrate not so much on the personality of the Dalai Lama, but on our fundamental approach, which concerns unity and territorial integrity – this is the fundamental principle in Russian-Chinese relations,” noted the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
M. Zakharova emphasized that Moscow and Beijing provide each other with support in protecting the aforementioned principles, which is recorded in the basic interstate documents, including the Treaty on Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation of July 16, 2001. “Our countries do not allow any activity on their territory that could harm each other’s sovereignty and security,” she said, noting that the corresponding mutual understanding was once again confirmed in the joint statement of Russia and China, adopted following the talks between the leaders of the two countries on May 8 in Moscow.
As the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry added, it is precisely this approach that is the key to the sustainable development of the Russian-Chinese comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction in the long term. “This fully meets the fundamental interests of the peoples of our countries in all their regional and ethnic diversity,” concluded M. Zakharova. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Moscow, July 2 /Xinhua/ — The Kremlin hopes that all issues in relations with Azerbaijan can be clarified in direct dialogue, Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said at a briefing on Wednesday.
He recalled that the head of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation Alexander Bastrykin is in contact with the Prosecutor General of Azerbaijan Kamran Aliyev. “And within the framework of this dialogue, we hope, all the nuances will be clarified,” added D. Peskov.
According to him, Kyiv will do everything to provoke Baku into emotional actions against Russia. This is how he commented on the statement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky about the telephone conversation he had the day before with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, in which V. Zelensky expressed support for Baku in conditions when Russia allegedly threatens Azerbaijan.
“Russia has never threatened and does not threaten Azerbaijan,” D. Peskov emphasized.
The official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, called on Azerbaijan to take measures to return bilateral relations to the level of strategic alliance.
“We, of course, call on the Azerbaijani side to take measures to return to the level of interstate relations that is formulated in official documents. Let me remind you that this is the level of strategic alliance,” she said during the briefing.
As M. Zakharova noted, issues arising in relations between the two countries must be resolved in a partnership manner through political and diplomatic channels.
The press service of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation for the Sverdlovsk Region reported earlier that law enforcement agencies stopped the activities of an ethnic group on June 27. According to the investigation, the defendants were involved in a number of murders and attempted murders committed in Yekaterinburg. Six defendants have been remanded in custody. According to preliminary data, one of the defendants died of heart failure. The cause of death of the second person is being established. Their bodies were transported from Yekaterinburg to Baku. After a forensic examination, they were buried in Azerbaijan.
Baku expressed protest against the actions of Russian law enforcement officers. At the initiative of the Azerbaijani side, cultural and some other events with the Russian Federation were cancelled. In the capital of Azerbaijan, Russian journalists Igor Kartavykh and Yevgeny Belousov, as well as 8 other Russian citizens, were detained and arrested for 4 months.
The Azerbaijani Ambassador to Moscow was presented with a verbal note demanding the immediate release of Russian journalists detained in Baku, and a protest was also lodged in connection with the latest unfriendly actions of the Azerbaijani side and its deliberate steps to dismantle bilateral relations.
According to D. Peskov, such measures against media representatives do not correspond to generally accepted norms, as well as the spirit and nature of Russian-Azerbaijani relations. –0–
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Jackson, TN – A federal judge has sentenced Mekevin Woods, 23, of Bolivar, Tennessee, to 38 months in federal prison for possessing a machinegun conversion device, also known as a “switch.” Interim U.S. Attorney Joseph C. Murphy, Jr. announced the sentence today.
According to evidence presented in court, on December 23, 2023, an officer with the Bolivar Police Department (BPD) attempted a traffic stop of a gray 2022 Infiniti Q60. When the driver refused to stop, he led the BPD officer on a high-speed pursuit reaching speeds of 80 miles per hour in a 25 mile per hour zone. Finally, Woods, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, traveled into oncoming traffic, jumped from the vehicle, and fled on foot. While fleeing, the officer observed Woods with a firearm in his right hand.
Officers with the Bolivar Police Department ultimately arrested Woods with the assistance of a K-9 unit and located a Glock handgun loaded with 32 rounds in an extended magazine with a machinegun conversion device attached to the firearm. Officers also determined the vehicle was stolen out of Memphis. Woods was identified as a member of the TMO 45 gang, a hybrid street gang comprised of both adult and juvenile members, that is involved in firearms and narcotics trafficking and is responsible for several shooting incidents in the Fayette and Hardeman County area.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jackson Resident Agency; and the Bolivar Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Christie Hopper prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
###
For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebookor on Xat @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Motorcycle-taxis are one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around Uganda’s congested capital, Kampala. But they are also the most dangerous. Though they account for one-third of public transport trips taking place within the city, police reports suggest motorcycles were involved in 80% of all road-crash deaths registered in Kampala in 2023.
Promising to solve the safety problem while also improving the livelihoods of moto-taxi workers, digital ride-hail platforms emerged a decade ago on the city’s streets. It is no coincidence that Uganda’s ride-hailing pioneer and long-time market leader goes by the name of SafeBoda.
Conceived in 2014 as a “market-based approach to road safety”, the idea is to give riders a financial incentive to drive safely by making digital moto-taxi work pay better. SafeBoda claimed at the time that motorcyclists who signed up with it would increase their incomes by up to 50% relative to the traditional mode of operation, in which riders park at strategic locations called “stages” and wait for passengers.
In the years since, the efforts of SafeBoda and its ride-hail competitors to bring safety to the sector have largely been deemed a success. One study carried out in 2017 found that digital riders were more likely to wear a helmet and less likely to drive towards oncoming traffic. Early press coverage wasparticularlyglowing, while recentacademicstudies continue to cite the Kampala case as evidence that ride-hailing platforms may hold the key to making African moto-taxi sectors a safer place to work and travel.
Is it all as clear-cut as this? In a new paper based on PhD research, I suggest not. Because at its core the ride-hail model – in which riders are classified as independent contractors who do poorly paid “gig work” rather than as wage-earning employees – undermines its own safety ambitions.
Speed traps
In my study of Kampala’s vast moto-taxi industry – estimated to employ hundreds of thousands of people – I draw on 112 in-depth interviews and a survey of 370 moto-taxi riders to examine how livelihoods and working conditions have been affected by the arrival of the platforms.
To date, there has been only limited critical engagement with how this change has played out over the past decade. I wanted to get beneath the big corporate claims and alluring platform promises to understand how riders themselves had experienced the digital “transformation” of their industry, several years after it first began.
One of the things I found was that, from a safety perspective, the ride-hail model represents a paradox. We can think of it as a kind of “speed trap”.
On one hand, ride-hail platforms try to moderate moto-taxi speeds and behaviours through managerial techniques. They make helmet use compulsory. They put riders through road safety training before letting them out onto the streets. And they enforce a professional “code of conduct” for riders.
In some cases, companies also deploy “field agents” to major road intersections around the city. Their task is to monitor the behaviour of riders in company uniform and, should they be spotted breaking the rules, discipline them.
On the other hand, however, the underlying economic structure of digital ride-hailing pulls transport workers in the opposite direction by systematically depressing trip fares and rewarding speed.
Under the “gig economy” model used by Uganda’s ride-hail platforms, the livelihood promise hangs not in the offer of a guaranteed wage but in the possibility of higher earnings. Crucially, it is a promise that only materialises if riders are able to reach and maintain a faster, harder work-rate throughout the day – completing enough jobs that pay “little money”, as one rider put it, to make the gig-work deal come good. Or, as summed up by another interviewee:
We are like stakeholders, I can say that. No basic salary, just commission. So it depends on your speed.
And yet, it is precisely these factors that routinely lead to road traffic accidents. Extensive research from across east Africa has shown that motorcycle crashes arestronglyassociated with financial pressure and the practices that lead directly from this, such as speeding, working long hours and performing high-risk manoeuvres. All are driven by the need to break even each day in a hyper-competitive informal labour market, with riders compelled to go fast by the raweconomics of their work.
Deepening the pressure
Ride-hail platforms may not be the reason these circumstances exist in the first place. But the point is that they do not mark a departure from them.
If anything, my research suggests they may be making things worse. According to the survey data, riders working through the apps make on average 12% higher gross earnings each week relative to their analogue counterparts. This is because the online world gets them more jobs.
But to stay connected to that world they must shoulder higher operating costs, for: mobile data (to remain logged on); fuel (to perform more trips); the use of helmets and uniforms (which remain company property); and commissions extracted by the platform companies (as much as 15%-20% per trip).
As soon as these extras are factored in, the difference completely disappears. The digital rider works faster and harder – but for no extra reward.
But it is important to remember that these are private enterprises with a clear bottom line: to one day turn a profit. As recentreports and my own thesis show, efforts to reach that point often alienate and ultimately repel the workers on whom these platforms depend – and whose livelihoods and safety standards they claim to be transforming.
A recent investment evaluation by one of SafeBoda’s first funders perhaps puts it best: it is time to reframe ride-hailing as a “risky vehicle” for safety reform in African cities, rather than a clear road to success.
Rich received funding for this research from the UK’s Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).
Goldman and Numerous Other Congressmembers Have Been Illegally Denied Access to ICE Field Offices Used to House Immigrants in Inhumane Conditions
Administration’s Crackdown on Law-Abiding, Non-Violent Immigrants Has Led to Widespread Reports of Overcrowding, Inhumane Conditions at ICE Detention Facilities Nationwide
Watch Goldman’s Rules Committee TestimonyHere
Read the Reconciliation AmendmentHere
Washington, D.C. — Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) introduced an amendment to the Republican reconciliation bill forbidding any of its funds from being used to prevent or impede Members of Congress from conducting their statutorily authorized oversight of immigration enforcement and detention facilities.
“Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill for Billionaires doesn’t just slash health care and food assistance programs by over a trillion dollars, it increases funding by tens of billions of dollars to expand and accelerate this administration’s authoritarian crackdown on law-abiding, non-violent immigrants”, Congressman Dan Goldman said. “It is Congress’ responsibility to ensure this money is used appropriately, and that requires us to do our constitutional and statutory oversight. This administration is not above the law, and I urge my colleagues to adopt this amendment reaffirming Congress’ constitutional authority as an independent and co-equal branch of government.”
Goldman’s amendment would ensure that none of the funding in the GOP’s reconciliation bill could be used to prevent congressional oversight of any location or facility related to civil enforcement of immigration law. The prohibition would include temporarily modifying locations before congressional visits or requiring members of Congress to provide prior notice before being allowed into the facility, as the administration has recently demanded in direct violation of Section 527(a) of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024.
Congressman Goldman has made combating the Trump administration’s lawless immigration enforcement tactics a top priority since the start of Donald Trump’s second term.
Last week, Goldman and Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Adriano Espaillat introduced the ‘No Secret Police Act,’ which would require law enforcement officers and agents of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) engaged in border security and civil immigration enforcement to clearly display identification and insignia when detaining or arresting individuals and to ban them from using home-made, non-tactical masks.
Last month, Goldman led 8 of his New York City House Democratic colleagues in sending an oversight letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Todd Lyons demanding ICE comply with Section 527(a) of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 and stop denying members of Congress access to facilities that ICE is using to house immigrants.
Days before, Goldman and Congressman Nadler hosted a press conference after observing court proceedings at 26 Federal Plaza and being denied access to the federal building’s 10th floor, where immigrants are being detained for days and sleeping on the floor and benches in inhumane conditions.
We cannot afford to keep the Royals. It is time to abolish the monarchy.
More in Scottish Independence
The UK cannot afford to keep the Royal family, and it is time they paid their own way like other celebrities do, say the Scottish Greens.
Currently, the King and Queen are visiting Scotland for ‘Royal Week’ where they are hosting a variety of events across parts of the country.
Over £500 million is taken from the public purse every year to fund the monarchy’s lavish lifestyle.
Meanwhile, the UK Government is attacking disability benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and refuses to end the cruel two-child benefit cap; a simple action that would lift almost half a million children out of poverty overnight.
Polling shows that 57% of Scots want to abolish the outdated, undemocratic and unaffordable monarchy. If the UK were to do so, it would see a boost to budgets that could be put towards building a fairer, better society for everyone.
“It is time that we treat the Royal family as celebrities and stop publicly funding them. The monarchy is an outdated and increasingly unpopular institution, with many people now calling for it to be abolished in favour of becoming a republic.
“For too long, the billionaire royals have been bankrolled while providing very little back to the country other than some waving from balconies and state visits. If they were to stop being funded by the public purse, they would still survive on their own wealthy investments and celebrity appearances like other super-rich figures in the public eye do.
“This UK Government is quick to blame disabled and poor people for needing financial support, yet here is one of the richest families in the country receiving public funds on a level like nobody else does year after year without question.
“Keir Starmer is telling the country that his government must make tough decisions and to expect more cuts along the way, yet the cost of the royal family is now over half a billion pounds per year, and nobody blinks. Half a billion pounds that could be invested into the areas Labour intend to cut.
“As Scottish Greens, we recognise how desperately we need Scottish Independence to break away from this being the norm. We cannot afford to wait any longer for the full powers of devolution. It is time to become a self-governing country so that we can build a fairer, better, more responsible and more affordable democratic society for everyone.”
The IAEA conducted its first INEAS university mission in April in Ust Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan, a country that is looking to restart its nuclear power programme. The mission — which engaged more than 90 participants from academia, government and industry — laid the ground for the development of a new bachelor’s degree programme in the ‘Operation of Nuclear Power Plants’ at the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University. It included curriculum workshops, technical visits and stakeholder consultations.
The IAEA also participated in an international forum with 14 expert presentations from Kazakhstan, Belarus and Russia, highlighting international best practices in nuclear education. Key outcomes included recommendations for planning national human resources development, curriculum enhancement, and expansion of cooperation through IAEA technical projects and STAR-NET, a regional network that promotes education and training in nuclear technologies.
“We are grateful to the IAEA for sending experts to our university to support the development of nuclear energy infrastructure. Their assistance also proved very helpful in designing the educational programme,” said Aizhan Baidildina, an associate professor at the the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University.
Kazakhstan, which is working with the IAEA to develop the infrastructure to reintroduce nuclear power, aims to complete its first nuclear power reactor in the next eight years. Its construction is expected to provide clean, reliable energy to the Central Asian country of 19 million people. Scientific and technical personnel are also being trained to operate the plant. Kazakhstan has the second largest uranium reserves in the world, accounting for 14 per cent of the global total. The country currently operates research reactors as well as several other nuclear installations related to the front end of the nuclear fuel cycle.
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –
The IAEA conducted its first INEAS university mission in April in Ust Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan, a country that is looking to restart its nuclear power programme. The mission — which engaged more than 90 participants from academia, government and industry — laid the ground for the development of a new bachelor’s degree programme in the ‘Operation of Nuclear Power Plants’ at the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University. It included curriculum workshops, technical visits and stakeholder consultations.
The IAEA also participated in an international forum with 14 expert presentations from Kazakhstan, Belarus and Russia, highlighting international best practices in nuclear education. Key outcomes included recommendations for planning national human resources development, curriculum enhancement, and expansion of cooperation through IAEA technical projects and STAR-NET, a regional network that promotes education and training in nuclear technologies.
“We are grateful to the IAEA for sending experts to our university to support the development of nuclear energy infrastructure. Their assistance also proved very helpful in designing the educational programme,” said Aizhan Baidildina, an associate professor at the the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University.
Kazakhstan, which is working with the IAEA to develop the infrastructure to reintroduce nuclear power, aims to complete its first nuclear power reactor in the next eight years. Its construction is expected to provide clean, reliable energy to the Central Asian country of 19 million people. Scientific and technical personnel are also being trained to operate the plant. Kazakhstan has the second largest uranium reserves in the world, accounting for 14 per cent of the global total. The country currently operates research reactors as well as several other nuclear installations related to the front end of the nuclear fuel cycle.
The IAEA conducted its first INEAS university mission in April in Ust Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan, a country that is looking to restart its nuclear power programme. The mission — which engaged more than 90 participants from academia, government and industry — laid the ground for the development of a new bachelor’s degree programme in the ‘Operation of Nuclear Power Plants’ at the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University. It included curriculum workshops, technical visits and stakeholder consultations.
The IAEA also participated in an international forum with 14 expert presentations from Kazakhstan, Belarus and Russia, highlighting international best practices in nuclear education. Key outcomes included recommendations for planning national human resources development, curriculum enhancement, and expansion of cooperation through IAEA technical projects and STAR-NET, a regional network that promotes education and training in nuclear technologies.
“We are grateful to the IAEA for sending experts to our university to support the development of nuclear energy infrastructure. Their assistance also proved very helpful in designing the educational programme,” said Aizhan Baidildina, an associate professor at the the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University.
Kazakhstan, which is working with the IAEA to develop the infrastructure to reintroduce nuclear power, aims to complete its first nuclear power reactor in the next eight years. Its construction is expected to provide clean, reliable energy to the Central Asian country of 19 million people. Scientific and technical personnel are also being trained to operate the plant. Kazakhstan has the second largest uranium reserves in the world, accounting for 14 per cent of the global total. The country currently operates research reactors as well as several other nuclear installations related to the front end of the nuclear fuel cycle.
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined bipartisan members of the Congressional Native American Caucus in urging House leadership to protect and strengthen federal funding for Tribal programs in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget.
In a letter to House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, the lawmakers called on Congress to fully uphold the United States’ trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations by preserving and expanding investments in Tribal health, education, infrastructure, law enforcement, and self-governance programs.
“When America makes a promise,we should keep it. The federal government has a legal and moral obligation to uphold its trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations,” saidVasquez. “This funding helps ensure New Mexico’s Tribes and Pueblos receive the full support they deserve so they can keep everything from the Indian Health Service to Tribal schools and justice systems up and running.”
The lawmakers emphasized that funding for Tribal Nations is not discretionary—it is a federal responsibility. The letter highlighted the importance of supporting Tribal Nations and their development by expanding flexible and consistent funding and supporting the federal employees and offices that deliver Tribal services.
Rep. Vasquez continues to champion investments that promote economic growth, improve public safety, and enhance quality of life in Tribal communities — efforts that benefit not only Tribal Nations but all of New Mexico and the country.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Speech
King’s Birthday Party 2025: His Majesty’s Ambassador Alyson King’s speech
His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo Alyson King’s speech on the King’s Birthday Party delivered on 19 June.
Your Excellency the President of the Republic, represented here by his principal advisor in charge of the College of Environment, Urban Planning and Mobility, HE Ambassador Tosi Mpanu Mpanu,
Honourable Senators and Members of Parliament,
Your Excellencies, distinguished members of the national and provincial governments, and their representatives here present,
Madam SRSG and Head of MONUSCO,
Excellencies, my fellow Ambassadors and heads of international organisations,
Dear members of the diplomatic corps and international organisations,
Distinguished religious and civil authorities, members of political parties,
Dear partners,
Eminent representatives of civil society and the world of culture,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Distinguished guests,
Dear friends,
All protocol observed
Boyei malamu na moto nyonso! (Welcome to everyone!)
Thank you all for coming. Your presence helps to create a special atmosphere as we celebrate the official birthday of King Charles III. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the links between the UK and the DRC.
The UK established its first diplomatic mission here in 1902, when a British consulate was built in the then capital, Boma.
But even though our relationship is 123 years old this year, I think we’re just getting started!
I’m going to repeat what I said last year:
We still do not know each other as well as we might. It remains my firm conviction that the more we know and understand each other, the more opportunities we will find to do good things together.
That’s enough recycling, at least for words!
The past year has been marked by undeniably negative events, and I’d like to say a few words about them before turning to more encouraging aspects.
In January, the battle for Goma began when Rwandan troops and the M23 attacked. Many civilians died, as did members of MONUSCO and SAMIDRC. Many people were forced to move – once again – and numerous human rights violations were committed by all the actors on the ground. I was forced to close our office in Goma.
A few days later, several embassies – both African and Western – and diplomatic residences in Kinshasa were attacked and looted. Perhaps the oldest principle of international public law is “don’t shoot the messenger”. Peaceful demonstration is an essential democratic right and freedom; as diplomats, we are there to understand and convey messages, particularly when the situation is difficult. But this type of violence is unacceptable and counter-productive. It delayed the international response to events in the east of the country rather than encouraging it.
Today, a record 5 million people live under occupation in the east of the DRC, under the administration of a UN-sanctioned rebel group.
I want to be very clear.
The UK Government condemns the actions of all illegal armed groups in eastern DRC, including the M23. The UK Government has expressed its deep concern about the support of the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) to the M23 in offensives that violate the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In response, the UK Government has announced a major reassessment of its policy towards Kigali, including the suspension of the majority of its financial support.
Security Council Resolution 2773, adopted unanimously by its 15 members, calls for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the M23 and the RDF. It has not yet been implemented. We welcome all the efforts currently being made to find a political solution to this situation.
At a time when the international system based on norms and international law is being called into question, whether in the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan or the DRC, leadership is required more than ever.
This leadership must be both courageous and wise, ready to take the necessary difficult measures and brave reforms.
Against this backdrop, there are many reasons to be optimistic about relations between the UK and the DRC.
You’ll see many examples of our collaboration in this garden.
I’m delighted to welcome back some of our Chevening alumni, and even more delighted to announce that we are increasing the number of scholarships available to talented young Congolese leaders to study for a Masters degree, fully funded by the UK, in the UK.
Much of the UK’s work in the country is targeted at communities in the east. For example, new UK funding will provide clean water and sanitation to around 200,000 displaced people, in partnership with UNICEF and the SAFER consortium.
On this day, International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, I would like to underline the priority that the UK Government gives to supporting survivors of sexual violence and fighting impunity. I reiterate my congratulations to the DRC for being the first state in the world to condemn the crime of forced pregnancy. I hope we can work together to provide global leadership on these vital issues in the years ahead.
We congratulate the DRC on its election to the Security Council as of 1 January and look forward to working together on issues crucial to international peace and security.
In the field of health, our partnerships with UNICEF and the WHO are supporting the government’s response to the ongoing Mpox and cholera epidemics, and helping more than 4.4 million Congolese people. I was delighted to meet some Mpox survivors in Kinshasa recently; one young man thought he would never get out of hospital alive because he was so ill. Looking at him today, you’d never guess, he’s so healthy and cheerful.
On climate and the environment, the UK co-chairs the Donor College of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership in the Central African Forest Initiative (CAFI). Our new £90 million action programme supports local communities around the Yangambi Biosphere Reserve, improving economic livelihoods while preserving forests and nature.
And I’m proud that our programme is also building the DRC’s capacity in climate science in collaboration with British universities.
I would like to salute the work of the Head of State, for his renewed commitment to economic reform. Tangible improvements to the business climate, such as simpler and more predictable procedures and taxation, as well as greater transparency, will attract foreign direct investment and lead to the creation of well-paid jobs.
British companies have shown their interest in the economic potential of the DRC. For example, British International Investment’s investment alongside DP World in the DRC’s first deep-water container port at Banana will open up new infrastructure and international trade opportunities for the country.
As a global centre of mining expertise, trade and finance, the UK is particularly well placed to support the DRC’s ambition to develop its mining sector and bring its critical minerals, which are vital to global economies, to all Congolese.
This evening, I’m delighted that several Congolese companies with links to the UK are here, and in particular several of them have been able to contribute to this fantastic event.
I would like to thank our generous sponsors: Socimex, Rawbank, Vodacom, G4S, Helios Towers, HJ Hospital, Médecins de Nuit, Diageo, Canalbox, Manga Flore Gardening Services, Centre Médical Diamant and BAM’s Clean, without whom this evening would not have been possible.
My thanks also go to my team who work tirelessly, not just for this event, but also for their dedication on a daily basis enabling the Embassy to function well and for us make a difference.
Dear guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Democratic Republic of Congo is an important partner and friend for the United Kingdom. In recent years, the ties of friendship between our two countries have grown stronger. H.E. President Felix Tshisekedi was one of the first heads of state to meet His Majesty King Charles III after his accession to the throne.
We salute the work of H.E. Mrs Judith Suminwa, the first female Prime Minister of the DRC, and all the members of the Government present here today.
My country’s wish is to embark on the next phase of this relationship, working in collaboration with the DRC’s leaders, civil society, businesses and health and climate experts.
I sincerely hope that we’ll get to know each other better and that we’ll achieve even more great things together.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The selection stage of the seventh stream of the “Architects.rf” program, which is carried out by the state company “DOM.RF”, has been completed. 100 finalists were determined at a committee meeting, which was attended by 22 experts, including representatives of educational institutions, heads of regional authorities, chief architects of cities and regions, as well as graduates of the program from previous years. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.
“The profession of an architect plays an important role in creating a comfortable urban environment. The cities we will live in tomorrow, how comfortable, beautiful and harmonious they will be, depend on their professionalism. This is why the “Architects.rf” program is so important. This year, it received a record 1,233 applications from specialists from 87 regions of the country – this is the best result in the seven years of the project, which is being implemented on behalf of the President. It is currently being carried out within the framework of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”. Currently, the selection stage of the seventh stream of this program has been completed and 100 finalists have been determined, who will soon begin their studies. This program helps to fill the shortage of qualified personnel for the development of cities, and also forms a new generation of professionals capable of creating a comfortable and modern environment. Thus, more than 600 graduates are already contributing to the transformation of Russian territories – from megacities to small towns,” said Marat Khusnullin.
The finalists included representatives of 14 professions: architects and urban planners, representatives of state and municipal authorities, urbanists, developers, sociologists, ecologists and other specialists from all over the country. The leaders among cities in terms of the number of program participants were Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk.
“This year, when launching a new stream of “Architects.rf”, we felt the support of the regions and the expert community more than ever. Today, when goals have been set for the development of our cities and agglomerations, the country needs professionals who understand how to achieve these goals efficiently and in a timely manner. Specialists from 61 cities and 52 regions have joined the program – from the Baltic to the Bering Sea, many of them already have considerable experience in creating comfortable urban spaces. One of the important achievements of the project is the formed community of managers who are already implementing their projects, including solutions for the preservation of historical heritage, national cultural codes and traditions,” said Vitaly Mutko, General Director of “DOM.RF”.
At the first stage of the competitive selection, participants filled out questionnaires and sent their portfolios to the competition organizers for consideration. The next step was a video interview, in which candidates shared their professional experience and views on various aspects of urban development.
Participants in the qualification selection will undergo an educational program lasting about 8 months, consisting of 4 full-time modules. It includes various training formats: research trips around Russia and abroad, lectures, meetings with experts and work in project groups. The first module will be held in Moscow in July and will be dedicated to the development of professional competencies of the participants. The training format includes lectures, trainings, practical classes, educational expeditions and much more.
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.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov is acting as a mentor for a participant in the presidential personnel program, implemented by the Higher School of Public Administration of the Presidential Academy.
Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Shpitonkov is a Hero of Russia, holder of two Orders of Courage, and was awarded the Nesterov Medal. During the meeting, the mentor and participant agreed that Nikolai would undergo his first internship in the direction of the country’s defense complex.
“It is a great honor for me to undergo an internship under such an experienced mentor as Denis Valentinovich. It is important for me to try to adopt everything that he considers necessary to teach me, given his enormous experience. Today, during our first meeting, we discussed the areas in which I would be interested in developing, and outlined the key aspects of the upcoming internship. I am grateful to Denis Valentinovich for his attention and involvement in the issues of my training,” said Nikolai Shpitonkov.
Let us recall that Denis Manturov is also a mentor of the participant of the first stream of the “Time of Heroes” program, holder of three Orders of Courage Denis Pogodin.
The goal of the program is to train leaders from among the participants of the special military operation for subsequent work in state and municipal authorities, as well as state-owned companies. The program is implemented by the Higher School of Public Administration of the Presidential Academy in cooperation with the Senezh Management Workshop.
The selection criteria for the training program were: demonstrated heroism within the framework of the SVO, management experience and achievements in the military or civilian spheres, as well as the results of assessment activities to determine management potential.
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.
Statistics South Africa has now commenced with the development of its digital business transformation strategy, which will guide the institution going forward.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, outlined the institution’s plans when she tabled its Budget Vote in Parliament on Wednesday afternoon.
“This strategy aligns with South Africa’s Roadmap for Digital Transformation of government that aims to, amongst others, enhance data exchange for improved access to information for improved service delivery.
“Stats SA’s digital transformation journey commenced with the Household Survey programme, transitioning from a paper-based data collection approach to a computer assisted methodology, thereby streamlining survey operations, resulting in significant cost savings,” Ntshavheni said.
She revealed that the institution will, over the next five years, “reinvent its statistical products and processes”.
Key initiatives over the medium-term include:
Researching the use of artificial intelligence in producing official statistics.
Introducing web-based data collection methods in economic statistics programmes.
Applying data science and modern methods to big data and alternative data sources.
Exploring the use of cloud technology in Stats SA.
“The shift to digital platforms is designed to streamline survey operations, making it more efficient and user friendly,” she said.
Ntshavheni said Stats SA’s allocation is R2.7 billion for the 2025/26 financial year, rising to R2.91 billion in 2026/27 and reaching R3.04 billion in 2027/28.
“In a world defined by rapid change, complex challenges and competing narratives, official statistics provides us with one constant: the truth told in numbers.
“They serve as a mirror through which a nation sees itself not just as it is but how its evolving. From economic performance and health outcomes to education levels and environmental conditions, statistics are the evidence base upon which sound decisions are made.”
The Minister urged Parliamentarians to support the budget vote to equip Stats SA to help government navigate ever changing global dynamics.
“It is important to support this budget vote because we are navigating a path in a world that is undergoing rapid and profound changes, and this is equally true in the realm of statistics.
“Global fundamental shifts are reshaping every aspect of human life from the escalating impact of climate change to the swift advancements in artificial intelligence, the rise of digital economies, changing social dynamics and global political tensions.
“By accurately capturing and analysing these trends, we can better equip ourselves to respond to the challenges and opportunities they present – ensuring that our nation remains resilient and forward thinking in this ever-evolving landscape,” Ntshavheni emphasised.
She assured that the institution remains “unwavering in its commitment to the strategy of improving lives through data economic systems”.
“As the landscape of information technology and data analytics continues to transform, our focus is on harnessing the power of data to enhance the wellbeing of our citizens,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Photographer jailed after sexually assaulting two models
A man who sexually assaulted two men has had his suspended sentence quashed and has been jailed after the Solicitor General intervened
Wayne Glover-Stuart [36] from Chiswick, West London, has had his suspended sentence overturned and jailed for three years after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP referred his case to the Court of Appeal.
The court heard that Glover-Stuart, a former theatre producer, invited two men on separate occasions to an underwear modelling photoshoot.
During both incidents, Glover-Stuart touched the victims’ genitals before carrying out sexual assaults.
The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:
Glover-Stuart’s crimes were appalling. He lured his victims into a vulnerable position abusing their trust before sexually assaulted them for his own gratification.
I welcome the Court of Appeal’s decision to increase this offender’s sentence following my intervention.
Wayne Glover-Stuart was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, for sexual assault and causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent, on 16 April 2025 at the Inner London Crown Court.
On 1 July 2025, Glover-Stuart’s suspended sentence was quashed and jailed for three years after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.
Children at playgrounds around Leeds are being encouraged to learn sign language as new fun educational boards are installed.
Funded by the National Deaf Children’s Society, two boards have been put up at 10 playgrounds, showcasing the British Sign Language (BSL) fingerspelling alphabet and a selection of helpful words when playing.
Early years can have a profound impact on deaf children’s language and social skills and the aim is that the signs will improve and encourage interaction between all children through playful interaction in the playgrounds.
The grant was awarded as part of a scheme funding community projects that support the communication skills of deaf children.
Bryony Hughes runs Leeds Deaf Children’s Society, which is affiliated with the National Deaf Children’s Society, and was the one to apply for the grant.
She said: “We needed to use the money to improve the communication skills of local deaf children and we thought that putting the signs in parks was a way that we could reach as many families across Leeds as possible
“The aim is that if more people, deaf and hearing, learn some basic BSL then it improves the skills of all involved, and also helps deaf people feel less isolated.
“Our son is profoundly deaf and wears cochlear implants. When he’s not wearing them, we sign with him and it’s important that he has an additional way of communicating with us, and also with other deaf people.”
The sign language boards have been installed in children’s play areas at Pudsey Park, Horsforth Hall Park, Bramley Park, Yeadon Tarnfield Park, Stanningley Park, Springhead Park Rothwell, Heritage Village, Blands Avenue Allerton Bywater, Cross Flatts Park, and East End Park.
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, and Councillor Mohammed Rafique, executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “The new signs are a great improvement to the playgrounds, encouraging interaction between all children, deaf and hearing. Learning basic BSL is useful to any person and we’re hoping that this will reach many local families and help them learn a new language.
“We work hard to be a child friendly city and it is important that all children feel represented and included in spaces designed for them.”
Angela Calder, of the National Deaf Children’s Society’s Community Grants programme, said: “This was a great idea from Leeds Deaf Children’s Society. We hope the new signs get people talking about British Sign Language and even using a few basic signs. It’s a really powerful way of helping deaf children feel more included.
“Our Community Grants programme is all about initiatives like this – enabling groups and communities all around the UK to make a real, tangible difference on the ground, helping deaf children and young people feel part of their communities.”
ENDS
This community grant was awarded as part of a pilot run by the National Deaf Children’s Society. For more information, please visit: www.ndcs.org.uk/community-grants
Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV Consultation with Nigeria.1
The Nigerian authorities have implemented major reforms over the past two years which have improved macroeconomic stability and enhanced resilience. The authorities have removed costly fuel subsidies, stopped monetary financing of the fiscal deficit and improved the functioning of the foreign exchange market. Investor confidence has strengthened, helping Nigeria successfully tap the Eurobond market and leading to a resumption of portfolio inflows. At the same time, poverty and food insecurity have risen, and the government is now focused on raising growth.
Growth accelerated to 3.4 percent in 2024, driven mainly by increased hydrocarbon output and vibrant services sector. Agriculture remained subdued, owing to security challenges and sliding productivity. Real GDP is expected to expand by 3.4 percent in 2025, supported by the new domestic refinery, higher oil production and robust services. Against a complex and uncertain external environment, medium-term growth is projected to hover around 3½ percent, supported by domestic reform gains.
Gross and net international reserves increased in 2024, with a strong current account surplus and improved portfolio inflows. Reforms to the fx market and foreign exchange interventions have brought stability to the naira.
Naira stabilization and improvements in food production brought inflation to 23.7 percent year-on-year in April 2025 from 31 percent annual average in 2024 in the backcasted rebased CPI index released by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics. Inflation should decline further in the medium-term with continued tight macroeconomic policies and a projected easing of retail fuel prices.
Fiscal performance improved in 2024. Revenues benefited from naira depreciation, enhanced revenue administration and higher grants, which more-than-offset rising interest and overheads spending.
Downside risks have increased with heightened global uncertainty. A further decline in oil prices or increase in financing costs would adversely affect growth, fiscal and external positions, undermine financial stability and exacerbate exchange rate pressures. A deterioration of security could impact growth and food insecurity.
Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They commended the authorities on the successful implementation of significant reforms during the past two years and welcomed the associated gains in macroeconomic stability and resilience. As these gains have yet to benefit all Nigerians, and with heightened economic uncertainty and significant downside risks, Directors emphasized the importance of agile policy making to safeguard and enhance macroeconomic stability, creating enabling conditions to boost growth, and reducing poverty.
Directors agreed that the Central Bank of Nigeria is appropriately maintaining a tight monetary policy stance, which should continue until disinflation becomes entrenched. They welcomed the discontinuation of deficit monetization and ongoing efforts to strengthen central bank governance to set the institutional foundation for inflation targeting. Directors also welcomed steps taken by the authorities to build reserves and support market confidence and praised reforms to the foreign exchange market that supported price discovery and liquidity. They called for implementation of a robust foreign exchange intervention framework focused on containing excess volatility, stressing that the exchange rate is an important shock absorber. Directors also agreed with staff’s call to phase out existing capital flow management measures in a properly timed and sequenced manner.
Directors called for a neutral fiscal stance to safeguard macroeconomic stabilization with priority given to investments that enhance growth. Directors also called for accelerating the delivery of cash transfers to assist the poor. They commended the authorities on advancing the tax reform bill, an important step towards enhancing revenue mobilization and creating fiscal space for development spending, while preserving debt sustainability.
Directors recognized actions to strengthen the banking system, including the ongoing process of increasing banks’ minimum capital. They welcomed the authorities’ efforts to boost financial inclusion and promote capital market development, while emphasizing the importance of moving to a robust risk‑based supervision for mortgage and consumer lending schemes as well as the fintech and crypto sectors. Directors welcomed progress made in strengthening the AML/CFT framework and stressed the importance of resolving remaining weaknesses to exit the FATF grey list.
To lift Nigeria’s growth outlook, improve food security, and reduce fragility, Directors highlighted the importance of tackling security, red tape, agricultural productivity, infrastructure gaps, including boosting electricity supply, as well as improved health and education spending, and making the economy more resilient to climate events. They noted that addressing structural impediments to private credit extension is also needed to support growth. Directors welcomed the IMF’s capacity development to support authorities’ reform efforts and agreed that enhancing data quality is critical for sound, data‑driven policymaking.
Table 1. Nigeria: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2023–26
2023
2024
2025
2026
5/8/2025 13:03
Act.
Est.
Proj.
Proj.
National income and prices
Annual percentage change
(unless otherwise specified)
Real GDP (at 2010 market prices)
2.9
3.4
3.4
3.2
Oil GDP
-2.2
5.5
4.9
2.3
Non-oil GDP
3.2
3.3
3.3
3.3
Non-oil non-agriculture GDP
3.9
4.1
3.7
3.7
Production of crude oil (million barrels per day)
1.5
1.5
1.7
1.7
Nominal GDP at market prices (trillions of naira)
234
277
320
367
Nominal non-oil GDP (trillions of naira)
221
260
303
351
Nominal GDP per capita (US$)
1,597
806
836
887
GDP deflator
12.6
14.5
11.4
11.4
Consumer price index (annual average)
24.7
31.4
24.0
23.0
Consumer price index (end of period)
28.9
15.4
23.0
18.0
Investment and savings
Percent of GDP
Gross national savings
31.8
39.6
37.5
37.7
Public
-0.1
3.9
2.2
1.7
Private
31.9
35.7
35.3
36.1
Investment
30.0
30.4
30.5
33.1
Public
3.2
4.8
5.4
5.5
Private
26.8
25.6
25.1
27.6
Consolidated government operations
Percent of GDP
Total revenues and grants
9.8
14.4
14.2
13.8
Of which: oil and gas revenue
3.3
4.1
5.1
4.9
Of which: non-oil revenue
5.8
9.2
8.8
8.8
Total expenditure and net lending
13.9
17.1
18.9
18.7
Overall balance
-4.2
-2.6
-4.7
-4.9
Non-oil primary balance
-4.9
-4.9
-7.2
-6.9
Public gross debt1
48.7
52.9
52.0
50.8
Of which: FX denominated debt
18.1
25.5
25.8
24.8
FGN interest payments (percent of FGN revenue)
83.8
41.1
47.3
49.2
Money and credit
Contribution to broad money growth (unless otherwise specified)
Broad money (percent change; end of period)
51.9
42.7
17.9
22.3
Net foreign assets
10.5
30.4
2.1
7.2
Net domestic assets
41.3
12.3
15.8
15.1
Of which: Claims on consolidated government
20.1
-11.9
6.2
4.1
Credit to the private sector (y/y, percent)
53.6
30.1
17.9
18.2
Velocity of broad money (ratio; end of period)
2.7
3.3
2.2
2.1
External sector
Annual percentage change
(unless otherwise specified)
Current account balance (percent of GDP)
1.8
9.2
7.0
4.6
Exports of goods and services
-12.8
-4.5
-6.0
1.3
Imports of goods and services
-4.4
-0.8
-6.8
8.4
Terms of trade
-6.1
-0.6
-7.4
-3.3
Price of Nigerian oil (US$ per barrel)
82.3
79.9
67.7
63.3
External debt outstanding (US$ billions)2
102.9
102.2
105.9
110.2
Gross international reserves (US$ billions, CBN definition)3
33.2
40.2
36.4
39.1
Equivalent months of prospective imports of G&S
5.4
5.7
7.5
7.7
Memorandum items:
Implicit fuel subsidy (percent of GDP)
0.8
2.1
0.0
0.0
Sources: Nigerian authorities; and IMF staff estimates and projections.
1 Gross debt figures for the Federal Government and the public sector include overdrafts from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
2 Includes both public and private sector.
3 Based on the IMF definition, the gross international reserves were US$8 billion
lower in December 2024.
1 Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. Staff hold separate annual discussions with the regional institutions responsible for common policies in four currency unions—the Euro Area, the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, the Central African Economic and Monetary Union, and the West African Economic and Monetary Union. For each of the currency unions, staff teams visit the regional institutions responsible for common policies in the currency union, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the currency union’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis of discussion by the Executive Board. Both staff’s discussions with the regional institutions and the Board discussion of the annual staff report will be considered an integral part of the Article IV consultation with each member.
2 At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chairman of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm. The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.