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The African Union (AU) has approved a ban on the slaughter of donkeys for their hides, a move expected to protect the continent’s 33 million donkeys.
The measure was approved on Sunday at the end of the African leaders’ summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
According to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-68335851">BBC</a>, the demand for donkey skins is fuelled by the popularity of an ancient Chinese medicine called Ejiao, traditionally made from donkey hides.
Ejiao is believed by some to have anti-ageing and health benefits, although this is unproven.
The Donkey Sanctuary, a charity, welcomed the Africa-wide ban on the slaughter of donkeys for their hides, saying:
<blockquote>
This historic decision taken by the African Union recognizes, at the highest level of decision making the vital importance of donkeys across Africa.
</blockquote>
The charity said donkeys were facing “a very real existential threat”, noting that 5.9 million donkeys are killed annually for the remedy.
Marianne Steele, chief executive of The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “Donkeys are sensitive and intelligent creatures who deserve protection for their sakes and for the countless communities who rely on them.”
In Africa, people in the poorest, rural communities use them for transport and to carry water, food and other goods.
According to a recent African study, possessing a donkey can make the difference between destitution and a modest livelihood.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

AU Approves Ban on Slaughtering Donkeys For Their Hides

Uebert Angel has been appointed as the African Union’s Pan African Parliament (PAP) Ambassador for Interfaith Dialogue and Humanitarian Affairs, reported <a href="https://nehandaradio.com/2023/07/18/uebert-angel-appointed-african-unions-pan-african-parliament-ambassador/">Nehanda Radio</a>.
PAP, also known as the African Parliament, is an assembly that was founded to serve as the legislative (law-making) branch of the African Union.
It exercises oversight and has advisory and consultative powers.
Nehanda Radio reported a source as saying Angel will be among five individuals who will be at the forefront in spearheading initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue among different faiths. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Ambassador Angel’s extensive knowledge, influential network, and commitment to fostering unity among diverse religious communities is what saw him emerge as an ideal candidate for this vital role.
He will be part of five individuals from diverse regions in the African continent spearheading initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among different faiths.
His experience in leading Spirit Embassy, a Christian organization with a global reach and registered members who go well over 3.5 million as of their last count, provides him with deep insights into religious diversity and the promotion of mutual respect.
This appointment is a testament to the belief in his ability to bridge gaps and cultivate harmony within society.
He will emphasize the importance of religious tolerance, respect, and understanding as essential foundations for peaceful coexistence within African communities.
</blockquote>
Angel was appointed Presidential Envoy and Ambassador at Large for Europe and the Americas by Emmerson Mnangagwa on 17 March 2021.
Early this year, an Al Jazeera documentary called “Gold Mafia” alleged that Angel offered to use his status to assist Al Jazeera reporters who posed as Chinese nationals launder millions of dollars through a gold-smuggling scheme.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Uebert Angel Appointed African Union's African Parliament Ambassador

The African Union has repeated its call for the lifting of Western-imposed sanctions against Zimbabwe at the UN General Assembly.
Speaking at the 77th Ordinary Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal and Acting President of the African Union, said the sanctions have worsened the suffering of Zimbabweans. He said:
<blockquote>
… the African Union calls, once again, for the lifting of foreign sanctions against Zimbabwe.
These severe measures continue to feed a feeling of injustice against an entire people and aggravate their suffering in these times of deep crisis.
</blockquote>
Last week the United States of America announced the removal of 11 individuals from the Zimbabwe sanctions list.
The <a href="https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0953">U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC),</a> however, designated one Zimbabwe individual on the Specially Designated Nationals List (SDN List) under the Zimbabwe sanctions program.
The US Treasury said sanctions do not target the Zimbabwean people, the country of Zimbabwe, or Zimbabwe’s banking sector.
It said the sanctions program targets human rights abusers and those who undermine democratic processes or facilitate corruption.

African Union Repeats Call For The Lifting Of Sanctions Against Zimbabwe

<blockquote>
<h2>Remarks of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission at 12 Dec 2021 G7 meeting of Foreign &amp; Development Ministers on Vaccines &amp; Global Health Security</h2>
I would like to thank the Government of the United Kingdom for inviting us to address the Vaccines and Global Health Security Session of the G7 Foreign and Development Ministerial meeting.
This is a vital and sensitive issue for Africa and the rest of the world, particularly the crucial issue of vaccines against COVID-19 and its different variants for our shared global health security.
Given the limited time, I would like to focus my remarks on three aspects: delivery of vaccines, manufacturing of vaccines in Africa before concluding the African Strategy on these issues.
With regard to the delivery of vaccines, Africa saw disproportionate delays, in comparison to the rest of the world, not only of what we ordered on the market but also those pledged under the Covax facility.
To date, about 8,5 billion doses delivered around the globe. Africa has received only 264 million of that number.
This means that only 7% of Africans have been vaccinated, compared to 70% of people around the world.
Let me be clear when this global pandemic started, Africa asked for one thing only – to have the same access to vaccines at the same price when they became available.
Two years later, we witnessed that these assurances of global solidarity were ignored.
If that was not enough, recently when South African scientists alerted the world on the presence of a new variant, the country and the southern African region was slapped with travel restrictions. Is this normal?
It became clear that for a population of 1,3 billion people, Africa, 14% of the world’s population, produces less than 0,1 % of global vaccines. This came into stark focus with this pandemic.
So, in April this year, the Africa Union launched the African Vaccine Manufacturing Partnership (AVMP).
This Continental Vaccine Manufacturing Vision is “to ensure that Africa has timely access to vaccines to protect public health security, by establishing a sustainable vaccine development and manufacturing ecosystem in Africa”.
We are also operationalising the African Medicines Agency, which is a key part of our global health security strategy. 
What do we expect from our friends?
At the risk of repeating the obvious, no one is safe until we all are, to be able to truly fight this pandemic.
Now more than ever, the world must honour its commitments with urgency. Vaccine nationalism is self-defeating and suicidal in a global pandemic.
And lastly, supporting African initiatives in the manufacture of essential medicines and vaccines beyond the Covid is key to global health security.
I urge the G7 to join the United States of America in the support of the Initiative by South Africa and India at the WTO to waive intellectual property rights to Covid vaccines.
I sincerely hope this meeting comes up with concrete action on this urgent issue, so vital for our common survival.
Finally, I hope we can count on your support on the 14th to 16th December at the first International Conference on Public Health in Africa, convened by the African Union.
Thank you for your attention.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Speech By AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki To G7 Nations {Full Text}

A Zimbabwean national, Chido Mpemba, has been appointed as the African Union (AU)’s new Youth Envoy as part of the regional body’s renewed commitment to amplify the voices of young people and broaden their participation in the development of the Continent.
In a statement, the AU Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat said Mpemba was selected following a rigorous recruitment process of hundreds of applicants. He said:
<blockquote>
<div class="advertising advertising--no-label js-adzone">I am confident that, with her profound knowledge of issues affecting young people, and working in close collaboration with the relevant Departments of the Commission, she will contribute to the effective implementation of African Union youth policies and programs.</div>
As we look ahead to the future of the continent, we must pause and look back at the past year to appreciate the unyielding resilience of Africa’s youth. This is why this year’s theme “Defining The Future Today: Youth-Led Solutions For Building The Africa We Want” is of great significance.
</blockquote>
He paid tribute to the outgoing Envoy, Aya Chebbi and all members of the Youth Advisory Council.
<blockquote>
I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Commission, to express my gratitude and appreciation to the outgoing Envoy, Ms Aya Chebbi along with Ms Petrider Paul; Ms Monbolade Urhele Pamela; Ms Metour Mouini Vanessa; Dr Shakira Choonara; Ms Aminetou Bilal; Mr Simon Marot Toulong; Mr Serigne Ndiaye; Mr Nair Abakar and Mr Dario Abdula Camal – all members of the Youth Advisory Council, for fulfilling their mandate with diligence and passion.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://healthtimes.co.zw/2021/11/01/zimbabwean-national-chido-mpemba-appointed-au-younth-ambassador/">Health Times</a></h4>

Zimbabwean National, Chido Mpemba Appointed AU Youth Envoy

African Union (AU) chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat has reiterated the organisation’s call for the immediate and unconditional removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by western powers at the turn of the Millenium.
In a statement on Tuesday, Mahamat said the continued sanctions have negatively impacted Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development and recovery efforts. The statement read:
<blockquote>
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat renews the African Union demand for the immediate and unconditional removal of sanctions imposed against the Republic of Zimbabwe and in support of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) commemoration of SADC Anti-Sanctions Day.
The Chairperson remains concerned by the negative impact of continued sanctions against the Republic of Zimbabwe on the country’s socio-economic development and recovery efforts.
The Chairperson reaffirms the commitment of the African Union to continue working closely with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to support all regional efforts, and in this regard, the African Union associates itself fully with the statement issued by President Lazarus Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi and current Chairperson of SADC.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

AU Calls For The Lifting Of Sanctions Imposed On Zimbabwe

The African Union said on Friday it was suspending Guinea after a coup in the West African country that saw its president Alpha Conde arrested by soldiers.
The pan-African body said on Twitter that it “decides to suspend the Republic of Guinea from all AU activities and decision-making bodies”.
The move came after Guinean special forces seized power on Sunday and arrested Conde, who had come under increasing fire for perceived authoritarianism.
The AU had on Sunday condemned the military takeover and called for the release of Conde, who became the country’s first democratically elected president in 2010.
Its decision to suspend Guinea came after a similar move on Wednesday by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has sent a mission to the country to evaluate the situation there.
The AU’s Political Affairs, Peace and Security Council said it called on AU Commission chief Moussa Faki to “engage with stakeholders in the region” on the crisis.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.africanews.com/2021/09/10/african-union-suspends-guinea-following-coup/">Africanews</a></h4>

African Union Suspends Guinea After Military Coup Ousting Condé

<h2>This article was sponsored by Cassava Smartech</h2>
Zimbabwe is set to get more than five million Covid-19 vaccinations in the coming few weeks after the African Union (AU), African Vaccine Acquisition Trust (AVAT) and Unicef secured 400 million doses of the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine.
The country last month approved the emergency use of Johnson &amp; Johnson’s Covid-19 vaccine in addition to other registered vaccines from India, Russia and China, as government ramps up efforts to inoculate more than 10 million people in Zimbabwe to get herd immunity.
Like many African countries, Zimbabwe is in the grips of the third wave of infections, after the country registered 112,435 cumulative cases and 3,676 deaths, while over 2.5 million had been vaccinated by Tuesday this week, according to official data.
Experts said the AU, Unicef and AVAT partnership, which seeks to ensure seamless procurement and delivery of vaccines to the AU Member States, will help boost efforts to mitigate the impact of the pandemic as less than two per cent of people on the continent are fully vaccinated so far.
“We are building a platform for deeper collaboration that will pave the way to a more robust African response to the pandemic and move the continent towards recovery, leveraging the opportunities to strengthen health systems and support the manufacturing sector for job creation,” said Dr Vera Songwe, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa.
African Union Special Envoy Mr Strive Masiyiwa, who has been instrumental in securing the vaccines, said the coming on board of Unicef will assist in thwarting a third wave of the deadly coronavirus pandemic that is raging across the continent.
“We are pleased to have UNICEF as a strategic partner in the delivery of these vaccines to our member states, as they are extremely experienced in handling and managing vaccines, and a strong and well-established relationship with all AU member states,” said Mr Masiyiwa, who is also the Econet Group founder and chairman.
Established by African leaders, AVAT has spearheaded African efforts on fair equitable access and distribution of vaccines, negotiating vaccine acquisition with pharmaceutical companies to at least 60 per cent of the African population with safe and efficacious vaccines to achieve “herd immunity” by 2022.
“Since the pandemic began, Africa CDC has worked with COVAX to ensure that African Union Member States get fair access to Covid-19 vaccines. At this critical moment where widespread vaccination is more urgent than ever, we must do all to vaccinate at least 60 per cent of the African population by 2022,” said Dr John Nkengasong, Director of Africa CDC.
The procurement of these vaccine doses has been made possible with the support of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), which provided a US$2 billion Advance Procurement Commitment (APC) Guarantee facility to Johnson and Johnson on behalf of the AU Member States.
The bank also made available direct financing to the AU Member States which require funding to pay for the vaccines.
In April 2021, Afreximbank made a down payment of US$330 million to Johnson and Johnson on behalf of the AU Member States, as part of the commitment under the Agreement.
“As the Financial and Transaction advisers to AVAT on the Johnson &amp; Johnson Agreement, we are pleased to formally welcome Unicef to the partnership and look forward to a fruitful collaboration for efficient delivery of vaccines to African countries,” said Professor Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank.
Access to vaccines is the surest way out of the Covid-19 pandemic. Emerging new variants suggest that global recovery will remain elusive if Africa is left behind. Speed and scale in vaccine distribution are imperative for economic recovery.
The AVAT and Unicef partnership will also work to increase procurement and manufacturing on the continent as part of a broader strategy for sustainable health systems and job creation in Africa.
The pandemic has highlighted Africa’s pharmaceutical manufacturing vulnerabilities. Prior to the pandemic, the continent was only able to manufacture less than two per cent of the total medicines needed.
“Access to COVID-19 vaccines has been unjust and unfair, with people in Africa bearing the brunt of this inequality. This cannot continue,” said Unicef Executive Director Henrietta Fore.
“Unicef is a staunch partner of the African continent with a long history of delivering vaccines everywhere they are needed. We are pleased to join this partnership with the African Union and AVAT to maximize supply and access to vaccines.”
The distribution of the J&amp;J vaccines to countries through AVAT Advanced Purchase Agreement is expected to commence in August 2021.
END

Zimbabwe, AU Members States To Get More COVID-19 Vaccines

TRAVEL ADVISORY ON THE LAUNCH OF THE AU TRUSTED TRAVEL PLATFORM FOR THE VERIFICATION OF COVID-19 CERTIFICATES FOR ZIMBABWE, 23 July 2021
The Government of Zimbabwe has taken note of the growing prospect of another wave in the COVID-19 cycle in the region. Such a wave could be worsened by the circulation of dangerous new variants from overseas.
Zimbabwe, like most countries, has tried to minimise the risk of disease importation from the onset of the pandemic by requiring international travellers to produce evidence of a negative COVID-19 test at Points of Entry.
However, as the risk grows, so does the critical need to strengthen the system and to harmonize cross border COVID-19 requirements, thereby assuring the integrity of certificates presented.
Therefore, the African Union, Africa CDC and other partners, working with PanaBIOS as technical leads, have introduced the Trusted Travel Initiative to support AU member states harmonise and enhance their current health screening systems.
Trusted Travel offers an online digital platform for the verification and authentication of COVID-19 test results based on a collaborative effort across a network of participating COVID-19 testing laboratories and Port Health authorities.
This platform allows for the detection of counterfeit travel documents and also enhances cross-border collaboration and confidence in COVID-19 results originating from other countries.
This platform further provides updated information on entry requirements and travel restrictions for participating states.
The Ministry of Health is therefore pleased to announce the launch of the Trusted Travel Platform in Zimbabwe.
We are confident that this platform will ease travel for both travellers into and out of the country.
In order to facilitate the use of this platform, the following guidance is provided:
1. Passengers intending to undertake international travel are expected to present themselves to any one of our Trusted Travel accredited laboratories for a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test.
Currently, the accredited laboratories are:
a. Matebeleland South
i. Beit bridge district hospital
ii. Gwanda provincial hospital
b. Matebeleland North
i. Lupane Hospital
ii. Bio express lab Victoria Falls
c. Midlands
i. Gweru Provincial Hospital
d. Masvingo
i. Masvingo provincial hospital
ii. Collin Saunders memorial hospital
iii. Gutu mission hospital
e. Mashonaland west
i. Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital
f. Mashonaland East
i. Marondera Provincial Hospital
g. Mashonaland Central
i. Bindura Provincial hospital
h. Manicaland
i. Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital
i. Harare
i. Bio Express Labs(PVT)
ii. CIMAS MEDLABS
iii. Lancet Clinical Laboratories
iv. National Microbiology Reference Laboratory
v. National TB reference Laboratory
vi. Parirenyatwa Central Hospital
vii. Sally Mugabe Central Hospital
viii. United Nations Clinic
j. Bulawayo
i. United Bulawayo hospital laboratory
ii. Mpilo hospital laboratory
k. Chitungwiza
i. Chitungwiza Central Hospital
2. Newly accredited laboratories can be found by visiting the Trusted Travel portal and creating an account at trustedtravel.panabios.org. To find accredited laboratories, travellers must indicate their current origin and intended destination.
3. When a test has been run, the laboratory will generate a Trusted Travel test (TT) code that can be verified by airlines and Port Health Authorities to confirm that the test came from an accredited laboratory.
4. Travelers will then receive a text message from PanaBios and an email from the testing laboratory with a link that will allow the traveller to create an account at trustedtravel.panabios.org and access the Trusted Travel Test Code (TT).
Travellers must ensure when creating an account to access the results reported by the laboratory that they use the same email address and phone number that they gave to the laboratory.
5. If the test results issued satisfy the full requirements set by Zimbabwe and the country of destination (for example, validity period or test type) then a Travel Code (TC) will be issued to the traveller online for presentation to airlines and Port Health Authorities.
6. Whilst the TT code confirms that a test was performed by an accredited laboratory, the TC provides additional evidence that the test performed is still valid at the time of travel since results can expire and regulations may change at any time as the pandemic evolves.
7. When travellers present themselves to their port of departure or arrival, the port health officials will use the clearance code (TC) provided to verify that their results meet all other requirements beyond having been issued by an accredited lab.
8. Inbound travellers with results from non-Trusted Travel-compliant laboratories will be required to upload a copy of their results on the Global Haven System (www.globalhaven.org) for authentication. Uploading forged documents will undermine the ability to travel globally.
Travellers encountering challenges with the use of the Trusted Travel and Global Haven systems are assured of technical support if they send an email to globalhaven@panabios.org
The Trusted Travel Platform will be fully available for use from the 1st of August 2021. From 7th August 2021, only COVID-19 certificates obtained on the Trusted travel platform or verified on the Global Haven systems will be valid for exit or entry into Zimbabwe.
<hr/>
Ministry of Health and Child Care

FULL TEXT: Zimbabwe Launches African Union Trusted Travel Platform

The <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/22/south-africa-sells-unused-astrazeneca-doses-to-au/">17 African Union (AU) member states</a> that South Africa’s 1 million AstraZeneca jabs were sold to include Zimbabwe where the 501YV2 coronavirus variant has been detected (the variant is the reason Soth Africa isn’t using the jab).
This also comes amid reports that a number of countries have banned the use of the vaccine after reports of blood clots among people who had received the jab.
The World Health Organisation (WHO), however, says there is no need to suspend the use of the vaccine since there is no evidence to substantiate the view that there is a cause-effect relationship between the vaccine and blood clotting.
Below is a statement by South Africa’s Health Minister Zwelini Mkhize that indicated the AU countries buying the AstraZeneca vaccine and the reason South Africa is not using it.
<blockquote>STATEMENT ON THE SALE OF ASTRAZENECA TO THE AFRICAN UNION
On 7 November 2020 His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his capacity as chair of the African Union, established the COVID-19 African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT)- a component in support of the Africa Vaccine Strategy that was endorsed by the AU Bureau of Heads of State and Government on 20th of August, 2020. This strategic initiative has seen Africa secure one billion doses of vaccines to date. This task team has been instrumental in ensuring that Africa does not get left behind as the world comes under pressure to attain population immunity against COVID-19.
Through the coordinated efforts of this task team we are pleased to confirm that, after concluding the sale of one million Astra Zeneca doses to the African Union, the first batch of these doses have been dispatched from South Africa. Although it was a difficult decision for us to halt the rollout of Astra Zeneca due to the challenges posed by the 501Y.V2 variant, it is gratifying to know that eighteen (18) member states will benefit from the AU allocation of the Astra Zeneca acquisition from South Africa. These member states are:
<ol>
<li>Nigeria</li>
<li>Ghana</li>
<li>Senegal</li>
<li>Guinea</li>
<li> Togo</li>
<li>Sierra Leone</li>
<li>Liberia</li>
<li>Mauritania</li>
<li>Gambia</li>
<li>Guinea-Bissau</li>
<li>Malawi</li>
<li>South Sudan</li>
<li>Comoros</li>
<li>Egypt</li>
<li>Seychelles</li>
<li>Uganda</li>
<li>Zimbabwe</li>
</ol>
We applaud the AU for undertaking the task of redistributing the vaccines to the receiving member states.
As government. we are pleased to see a successful conclusion of this matter. The disposal of the vaccines has ensured a win-win solution for all. Through the sale, South Africa will not incur fruitless and wasteful expenditure.
We also welcome the contributions made by MTN-Africa, which assisted in the purchase of the stock. This is a shining example of successful private-public partnership and we call on others in the business sector to join us in the final battle against COVID-19 and make similar contributions to boost Africa’s mass vaccination campaign.
Through this initiative, governments and business have come together to turn one country’s misfortunes into blessings for others. This reflects the spirit of social solidarity that the AU Vaccine Strategy was founded upon. We wish the member states well as they rollout their respective vaccination campaigns. We are in this together.
Dr. Zwelini Mkhize Minister of Health 
END
 </blockquote>

African Countries That Bought South Africa-Rejected AstraZeneca

Statement by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the report on the progress of the African Union response on COVID-19 pandemic in Africa; 34th Ordinary Session of the African Union [6 and 7 February 2021]
<blockquote>Your Excellency Felix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Chairperson African Union;
Your Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa and Outgoing Chair of the African Union;
Heads of State and Government of the African Union;
Your Excellencies,
Allow me to convey sincere condolences to all of you, Your Excellencies for the sad losses you have endured in your respective countries due to the COVID 19 pandemic.
I further commend the outgoing Chair of our Union, His Excellency Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, and President of the Republic of South Africa for his exemplary and sterling work in leading our Continental body.
His innovative and responsive approach in mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our Continent is admirable.
Today our organisation boasts of elaborate, well-coordinated and effective new initiatives towards combating the spread of the pandemic.
This demonstrates the power of our solidarity, cooperation and unity which can be traced to our rich culture and heritage as a Continent.
I warmly congratulate you, Your Excellency President Félix Tshisekedi for your assumption of Chairmanship of the African Union.
You can count on Zimbabwe’s support during your tenure of office.
Excellencies;
My country appreciates the critical role and efforts of the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Africa Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT) and the African Union Special Envoys to procure vaccines.
Efforts by the private sector and other stakeholders to mobilise and set up platforms on which Member States of the Union can procure the Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), diagnostic equipment and vaccines are equally commendable.
We also hail the Afreximbank which will avail financial facilities to enable countries to purchase their Covid-19 contingencies.
Mr Chairman,
I concur with the proposal for more robust strategies to deal with future pandemics and the need to strengthen and review statutes of the Africa-Centre for Diseases Control to enable it to fully perform its task.
I equally support the call for Africa to develop our own pharmaceutical industry drawing from our rich heritage based scientific knowledge and competent scientists.
Zimbabwe further supports calls for the establishment of the Africa Medicine Agency (AMA).
I thank you</blockquote>

FULL TEXT: President Mnangagwa Statement On The 34th Ordinary Session Of The AU

Zimbabweans living in South Africa have called for regional organisations to intervene in Zimbabwe to save the country from tyranny.
Tafiyenrika Muzarugwi of the Zimbabwean Citizens Coalition in South Africa called for both President Cyril Ramaphosa’s government and the African Union to condemn the abduction, torture and imprisonment of activists, journalists and government critics in Zimbabwe. He said:
<blockquote>As the chair of the African Union, South Africa must take a firm stance and condemn what is happening in Zimbabwe. The AU represents the continent, and we need continental support.</blockquote>
The Durban-based Zimbabwe Solidarity Movement’s Tsungai Jani lamented the crackdown on dissenting voices by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.
He said Zimbabweans were foolish to celebrate the ouster of the late Robert Mugabe, then president in 2017, because the repressive State apparatus is still in place. Said Jani:
<blockquote>You never expect this to happen in a so-called democratic country. When Robert Mugabe was ousted out of office, we foolishly rejoiced only to realise that he was never the only bad guy, but it was a systemic issue. At the end of the day, Zanu-PF is still the ruling party, and those who supported Mugabe, are still in power.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/kwazulu-natal/zimbabweans-in-sa-call-on-government-to-intervene-in-crisis-d8bd87d6-9b16-4746-9974-b684becd6ebe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">IOL</a></h4>

Zimbabweans In SA Call For AU Intervention In Crisis

Chairperson of the African Union (AU), South African leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the forced resignation of the Malian government by the country’s military.
In a statement issued by the AU on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa demanded the release of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and his government from military detention. The statement read:
<blockquote>Chair of the African Union, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa has learnt with concern of developments in the Republic of Mali which have led to the forced resignation of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.
His Excellency President Ramaphosa condemns the unconstitutional change of government in Mali.
President Ramaphosa demands that the Malian military release from detention the President, the Prime Minister, Ministers and other Government executives.
H.E. President Ramaphosa calls for an immediate return to civilian rule and for the military to return to their barracks.
H.E. President Ramaphosa urged the people of Mali, political parties and civil society, to observe the rule of law and engage in peaceful dialogue in order to resolve their challenges.
H.E. President Ramaphosa further urged African leaders and the entire international community to denounce and reject the military-led unconstitutional change of government and to assist the people of Mali to return to civilian and democratic rule.</blockquote>

Ramaphosa Condemns Malian Military Coup, Calls For Immediate Return To Civilian Rule

MDC Alliance vice president Tendai Biti has warned that Zimbabwe could be on the verge of a bloodbath if the international community fails to intervene.
Biti made the remarks on Thursday evening during an online discussion that was organised by South Africa’s Jacana Media. He said.
<blockquote>We are entering a very dangerous phase, a phase in which those that are controlling the State know one language — which is repression, violence and authoritarianism. They don’t know dialogue. They don’t know how to interface with the people.
As Zimbabweans, we have to defend ourselves in the parameters and limits defined by the Constitution, section 59 of the Constitution.</blockquote>
But our actions alone as Zimbabweans are not enough. We need the agency, as well as the protection of international law.
Biti called on South Africa’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa, SADC, the African Union (AU) and the United Nations Security Council to protect the people of Zimbabwe from their government.
This comes after President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently labelled opposition groups “terrorists”, “bad apples” and “dark forces” which have to be “flushed” out. Biti said:
<blockquote>The last time I heard that language was in February 1994 in Rwanda and a few months later in April 1994, about 800 000 people lay dead.
I see ominous signs and a closure of space. I see one thing, a definitive attack on the citizens of Zimbabwe that will be very bloody and very nasty.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://dailynews.co.zw/brace-for-bloodbath-worried-biti-tells-zim/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Daily News</a></h4>

Biti Warns Of Possible Bloodbath In Zimbabwe, Appeals For Foreign Intervention

The African Union Chairman who is also the former Prime Minister of Chad Moussa Faki Mahamat has urged the government to uphold the rule of law and protect human rights as reports of human rights abuses drew global attention and condemnation last week.
Using the AU Official Website, AU released the following statement from the Chairman’s desk:
<blockquote>Addis Abba, Ethiopia: 7 August 2020.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Moussa Faki Mahamat is following closely political developments in Zimbabwe as the country mounts concerted efforts in response to the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cognisant of the existing harsh socio-economic situation in the country, the Chairperson urges the Zimbabwe authorities to respond to the pandemic ensuring that the national response is premised on human rights as enshrined in the 1981 African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The Chairperson is concerned about reports of disproportionate use of force by security forces in enforcing COVID-19 emergency measures. He implores the authorities to exercise restraint in their response to peaceful protests.
The Chairperson further encourages the government of Zimbabwe to uphold the rule of law allowing for freedom of the media, freedom of assembly, freedom of association and the right to information. Violations of these rights are a breach of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the 2007 African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance.
In this regard, the Chairperson welcomes the appointment by South African President and current Chair of the Union, HE Cyril Ramaphosa of two special envoys to Zimbabwe, namely former Cabinet Minister Dr Sydney Mufamadi and former Speaker of Parliament Ms Baleka Mbete, both from South Africa. 
The Chairperson reaffirms the African Union’s commitment and support to the government and people of Zimbabwe in their endeavour to deepen democracy in the country, in line with the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance.
Ms. Ebba Kalondo| Spokesperson, Bureau of the Chairperson | African Union Commission</blockquote>
The statement came a few days before the South African Envoy sent by AU President Cyril Ramaphosa jetted in to meet President Mnangagwa on the issue of Human rights abuses.
More: <a href="https://au.int/en/pressreleases/20200807/auc-chairperson-urges-authorities-zimbabwe-uphold-rule-law-and-protect-human">African Union</a>

FULL TEXT: African Union Urges Zimbabwean Authorities To Uphold The Rule Of Law And Protect Human Rights

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mr Moussa Faki Mahamat, is under fire after he condemned human rights abuses against the people of colour in the United States of America when he has not responded to human rights abuses in Zimbabwe.
Mahamat had issued <a href="https://au.int/en/pressreleases/20200529/statement-chairperson-following-murder-george-floyd-usa">a statement condemning the murder of George Floyd</a> that occurred in the United States of America at the hands of law enforcement officers.
Responding to Mahamat’s statement, some said the chairperson was being hypocritical as he had remained mum on allegations that three “young ladies were abducted, tortured, and sexually assaulted by Zimbabwean state authorities.”
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<div class="css-901oao r-hkyrab r-1qd0xha r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-bnwqim r-qvutc0" dir="auto" id="tweet-text" lang="en">Another social media user weighed in saying the African Union has not been so enthusiastic when condemning human rights abuses by African leaders if at all the union does condemn. The user said:</div>
<blockquote>
<div class="css-901oao r-hkyrab r-1qd0xha r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-bnwqim r-qvutc0" dir="auto" lang="en">Then you’re definitely ignoring what’s happening around Africa….. women are being raped every second minute, our people are being slaughtered in the DRC, Our brothers &amp; sisters are being traded for nothing in Libya ….. and you don’t seem to be doing anything.</div>
</blockquote>
<div dir="auto" lang="en">This follows the alleged abduction of Jonnah Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova, all MDC youth officials by alleged state security agents following a hunger protest.</div>
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<div dir="auto" lang="en">More: <a href="https://twitter.com/AUC_MoussaFaki/status/1266305764123164673">Moussa Faki Mahamat</a></div>
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AU Chair Criticised For Being Mum On Human Rights Abuses In Zimbabwe

Strive Masiyiwa, the founder of telecommunications company Econet Wireless, has spoken about his new role as the ‘African Union’s Special Envoy to Coordinate the Africa Private Sector Initiative for the Procurement of PPEs and other Essential Supplies’.
Masiyiwa was recently appointed to the role by the African Union through its Chairperson, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Posting on Facebook, Masiyiwa wrote:
<blockquote>#Update on my job as one of the Special Envoys on Africa’s COVID-19 Response:
This is currently my #1 job!
I’m working on average 10 hrs per day to find solutions, as per my mandate.
#Find critical supplies – Unblock the Supply Chain!
Africa has a critical shortage of key items, which are also in short supply worldwide.
#Testing Kits: 
We need about 15million per month, if the continent is to achieve the level of Testing that will contain the spread of the disease and also eliminate lockdowns.
We are currently getting 2,5million per month, or about 50 000 per country!
These Test Kits are actually not easy to produce and setting up production factories will take time.
Every country has a shortage of these kits, including the USA.
We are close to meeting our target now. And there are innovations coming through which will see us eliminate the shortage completely.
#Personal Protection Equipment for Doctors, nurses and healthcare workers:
The specification required of PPE for those handling sick patients is extremely high, as it should be. The supply of such PPE is in critical global shortage.
…We are making good progress here too!
#Ventilators, and Oxygen support equipment:
We currently need over 50 000 of various types of this equipment.
I’m confident!
My approach to solving this “Supply Chain” problem:
My first task was to read up to get understanding of what was required – then speak to experts.
Next task:
-Mobilize African experts.
-Mobilize international support, even governments.
-Mobilize the African private sector.
Done!
I have built a team of experts and volunteers now, who really understand these issues. Many, like me, are also in DiasporaNation. They have joined to help HomeNations.
Action:
I’m confident that we can unblock the The Supply Chain:
-Give African countries immediate access to what they want;
-Ensure that prices are fair;
-Ensure they can be delivered quickly and efficiently.
We have began to build a formidable alliance of African and global partners, including funders, and suppliers.
The next two weeks will be crucial. There is much resistance, even against me personally. I will not be distracted because I understand where it comes from.
#You will soon know exactly what we are able to secure:
Since I believe in transparency, I will be issuing a progress report to the African governments, and the general public will also be able to see exactly what we have obtained through a website that we will launch in the first week of June.
Please continue to support us, even in your prayers.
Strive Masiyiwa
Read more about businessman and entrepreneur Strive Masiyiwa’s work in combating COVID-19 on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strivemasiyiwa/">https://www.facebook.com/strivemasiyiwa/</a></blockquote>

FULL TEXT: Masiyiwa Speaks On His Role As African Union Special Envoy

Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the opposition MDC Alliance has said Africa’s major problem is its leadership that has no strategy of pulling the continent out of its misery even decades after independence.
In his Africa Day message, a day meant to commemorate the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity on 25 May 1963, the precursor to the African Union (AU), Chamisa said:
<blockquote>To sculpture solutions to Africa’s challenges, it is vital to locate what the problem of Africa is. The problem with Africa is principally a problem/crisis of governance and leadership. The crisis articulates itself in the failure of Africa’s leaders to rise up to the rectitude of accountability and yardstick of probity. The inability to think beyond subsistence and clientalism.
Africa is burdened by disease and poverty. The poverty in Africa is the poverty of leadership. The scarcity on our continent is the scarcity of vision and love.</blockquote>
Africa is endowed with primary natural resources including gold, platinum, diamonds, oil, land and timber but most of the countries on the continent remain in abject poverty.
Africa is urged to embark on beneficiation and value addition of minerals before export to create value, employment and accelerated industrial development from its largely unexploited mineral resources.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2020/05/towards-the-great-african-promise/">NewsDay</a>

"Africa Has A Poverty Of Leadership And Scarcity Of Vision," - Chamisa's Africa Day Message

Exiled former Zimbabwean Cabinet Minister, Professor Jonathan Moyo has said that it is racist for Chinese nationals to accuse African nationals resident in that country of importing coronavirus when the virus emerged in China.
He was commenting on an article by The Herald, a Zimbabwean state-run publication which had reported that the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe Chinese embassy in Zimbabwe had said that “Beijing does not tolerate any form of racial discrimination in the Asian country.”
Moyo said on Twitter:
<blockquote>It would be too much to expect the Chinese Embassy in Harare to get it. It’s racist for China to treat Africans resident in China as importers of the <a class="link-complex" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23coronavirus" rel="hashtag noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">#coronavirus</a>, when the virus originated in China!</blockquote>
The statement by the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe followed reports of mistreatment and stigmatisation of black Africans in China where they are reportedly being barred from entering into supermarkets and public transport.
The reports attracted criticism from people across the world including former and current African diplomats who reportedly protested against the alleged racism.
The novel coronavirus which has since been declared a pandemic emerged in Wuhan in Hubei a Chinese Province in December last year before spreading across the world.
More: <a href="https://twitter.com/ProfJNMoyo/status/1249921220843384832">Jonathan Moyo</a>

"The Virus Originated In China, It's Racist To Say Africans Are Importing It Into China," - Jonathan Moyo

Former African Union (AU) “Permanent Ambassador” Arikana Chihombori Quao has appealed to Chinese President Xi Jinping to do what is “right” and “just” following reports that Africans resident in China are being mistreated in Guangzhou, with some being evicted from hotels.
Chihombori said, “the Africans are no longer going to tolerate this from the Chinese or anyone else for that matter. The African youths are enraged…”
Watch the video below:
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WATCH: Former AU Diplomat Challenges President Xi To Deal With Discrimination

African Ambassadors in China have protested against maltreatment and stigmatisation of Africans in that country. The chair of the African Union, South Africa has communicated Africa’s concern to Chinese authorities.
A meeting among Chinese authorities and African Ambassadors in that country has been scheduled.
Reports suggest that Africans are being illtreated in China as they are being denied access to public transport and supermarkets as natives are blaming them for new coronavirus cases in their country.
China reports that new cases which are being recorded in that country are likely a result of foreigners coming into that country since the lockdown on Wuhan in Hubei was effective.
Meanwhile, the Chinese government has since issued a statement condemning the discrimination but Africans are saying the statement which is not backed by concrete action is not enough.
Watch the SABC News video below for more.
More: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Trk0tCAEYBU">SABC News</a>

WATCH: African Ambassadors In China Protest Against Discrimination And Stigmatisation Of Africans

The first continental report on the implementation of Agenda 2063 has just been released. The African Union observes that <a href="https://au.int/Agenda2063/popular_version" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">AGENDA 2063</a> is “Africa’s blueprint and master plan for transforming Africa into the global powerhouse of the future.”
The Union also notes that the agenda is the continent’s strategic framework that aims to deliver on its goal for inclusive and sustainable development and is a concrete manifestation of the pan-African drive for unity, self-determination, freedom, progress and collective prosperity pursued under Pan-Africanism and African Renaissance.
It was adopted by African Heads of State and Government during the January 2013 African Union Summit. The First Ten-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063 which spans from 2014 to 2023, outlines a set of goals, priority areas and targets that the continent aims to achieve at national, regional and continental levels.
The first continental report on the implementation of Agenda 2063 notes that the continent has made some remarkable progress towards attaining the goals defined in Agenda 2063’s First Ten-Year Implementation Plan.
The report is an assessment of 31 African Union Member States &amp; 6 Regional Economic Communities towards achieving Africa’s blueprint and master plan for sustainable development and economic growth.
Fore more, Download the <a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/agenda_2063_implementation_report-first-continental-report.pdf">agenda_2063_implementation_report (first continental report)</a>

First Continental Report On The Implementation Of Agenda 2063

The former ambassador of the African Union (AU) to the United States, Arikana Chihombori-Quao has spoken after she was recalled by the current chairperson of the AU for reportedly exposing France’s continued colonisation of Africa through its Pact for the continued colonisation of Africa.
She said that France is collecting US$500 billion every year from its former African colonies. She added that France’s conduct was a violation of human rights which should be condemned by every progressive organisation and she marvels at the silence of the United Nations and the international community.
She also links the poverty in Africa to the 1884 Berlin Conference. Watch the video below.
<div class="jetpack-video-wrapper"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HgMDuL9Ww7Y?feature=oembed" title="EXCLUSIVE: Former AU Ambassador To The U.S. On Her Dismissal, France's Ongoing Influence In Africa" width="640"></iframe></div>
More: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgMDuL9Ww7Y&amp;feature=youtu.be">Roland And Martin Unfiltered</a>

Former AU Ambassador Speaks After Being Recalled For Exposing France

Zimbabwean Arikana Chihombori-Quao who was the African Union’s Ambassador to the United States of America was sacked by AU’s Chad presidency for condemning French exploitation of her former colonies. Below is the video which got the Zimbabwean international sacked.
https://twitter.com/zimlive/status/1183703435629285382
More: <a href="https://twitter.com/zimlive/status/1183703435629285382">Zim Live</a>

WATCH: Video That Got Zim's Arikana Chihombori-Quao Sacked By AU President

The African Union (AU) has implored the South African government to urgently take measures to deal with the ongoing xenophobic attacks that have led to the deaths of five people and destruction of businesses owned by foreign nationals.
In a statement released on Tuesday, chairperson of the AU Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat demanded that the perpetrators of the violence and looting be brought to justice. He said:
<blockquote>The chairperson is encouraged by arrests already made by the South African authorities.
He calls for further immediate steps to protect the lives of people and their property, ensure that all perpetrators are brought to account for their acts and that justice is done to those who suffered economic and other losses.
The chairperson reiterates the AU Commission’s continued commitment to support the South African government in addressing the root causes of these despicable acts to promote peace and stability within the framework of the AU’s longstanding principles of continental solidarity.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/sa-au-condemn-xenophobia/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

AU Denounces Xenophobia

<blockquote>Adopted by the Peace and Security Council during its 868th meeting held on 14 August 2019 on the state of foreign military presence in Africa: Implications on the implementation of the Common African Defence and Security Policy:
The Peace and Security Council,
Taking note of the statement made by H.E. Albert Ranganai Chimbindi, Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe to the AU and Chairperson of the PSC for the month of August 2019, and the presentations made by Dr. Admore Kambudzi, Director of Peace and Security Department on behalf of the Commissioner for Peace and Security, Ambassador Smail Chergui; also taking note of the presentation by Ambassador Kio Amieyeofori, on behalf of  the Chairperson of the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA), Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar; Further taking note of the statements made by the representatives of China, France, Russia, United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO);
Recalling its previous pronouncements on the issue of foreign military presence and external interference in Africa’s affairs, particularly communique PSC/PR/COMM(DCI) adopted at its 601st meeting held on 30 May 2016; communique PSC/PR/COMM(DCCLXXVI) adopted at its 776th meeting held on 24 May 2018; communique PSC/PR/COMM(DCCCXXIV) adopted at its 824th meeting held on 5 February 2019; and most recently, communique PSC/PR/COMM(DCCCLVII) adopted at its 857th meeting held on 5 July 2019, and communique PSC/PR/COMM(DCCCLXV) adopted at its 865th meeting held on 7 August 2019; In the above-mentioned communiques, the PSC strongly condemned the external interference, by whomsoever, into African peace and security issues, and warned that it will proceed to name and shaming those involved in order to address this problem;
Underling the need for full implementation of Article 7(l) of the PSC Protocol emphasizing that external initiatives in the field of peace and security on the Continent take place within the framework of the Union’s objectives and priorities as outlined in the AU relevant instruments;
Taking note of the fact that some AU Member States, within their sovereign status, have entered into bilateral and multilateral arrangements with non-African partners with a view to addressing and containing threats to peace and security on their respective territories.
Acting under Article 7 of its Protocol, the Peace and Security Council:
1.    Notes with concern over the increase in the  establishment of foreign military presence and military bases in Africa; emphasizes that the defence and security of one country in Africa is directly linked to that of others as provided for in the Common African Defence and Security Policy and also in the AU Non-Aggression Pact; in this regard, underlines that these AU instruments constitute the bedrock  of Africa’s collective defence and security;  further expresses deep concern that albeit this increase of foreign military presence and military bases in different parts of the continent, the threats which they are supposedly expected to neutralize, continue to increase an intensity and geographic expansion in different parts of the Continent; also expresses concern that foreign military presence and military bases are contributing to the risk of rivalry and competition among foreign powers within Africa and undermining national sovereignty and peace efforts;
2.    Strongly condemns any external interference into Africa’s peace and security affairs and urges that all external support to peace and security in Africa should be well-coordinated and directed towards achieving AU’s objectives and priorities and should be provided within the framework of the relevant AU instruments;
3.    While appreciating the support of partners in the promotion of peace, security and stability in Africa, emphasizes that the AU Member States and the AU Commission should enhance their efforts in popularizing and providing effective support towards the implementation of the Common African Defence and Security Policy and the African States should guarantee that any external support, either bilateral or multilateral, is in conformity with this Policy;
4.    Underscores that collective defence and security in Africa is of high importance, taking into consideration the rapid increase of foreign military presence in the Continent; in this regard, appeals to all AU Member States that decide to host foreign military entities/bases in their countries to deploy necessary efforts to inform their neighbours, their respective Regional Economic Communities and Regional Mechanism (RECs/RMs) and the African Union and ensure that the signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are in conformity with the provisions of the Common African Defence and Security Policy and other relevant AU policies on defence and security and that they contribute towards the objectives and priorities of the AU;
5.    Emphasizes the need for the AU Commission and the RECs/RMs to redouble their efforts to ensure the operationalization of the African Standby Force (ASF), which is the primary home-grown model in the Continent, to enable Africa to enhance its defence and security arrangements for AU Member States and their people; such a capability would provide Africa with the means to timeously respond to threats to peace and security; furthermore, stresses the importance for African countries to put more focus on capacitating their national forces, as well as promote intelligence sharing among themselves;
6.    Emphasizes the primary role of the African countries in managing their internal affairs and reaffirms its commitment to respect the sovereignty, national unity and territorial integrity of each African state; therefore, encourages to all AU Member States which need support incapacitating their national defence and security forces and institutions to explore available avenues in the United Nations (UN) system and those in the RECs/RMs to provide such support, with a view to continue building mutual trust, confidence and collective capabilities and strength among African countries;
7.    Encourages the AU Member States to enter into bilateral agreements in the matters of common interests on peace and security, in order to enhance coordination and share expertise and experience; further encourages the Member States to emulate best practices on military operations among African states and RECs/RMs in addressing threats to peace and security and sustaining stability;
8.    Underscores the important role played by information, experience and intelligence sharing platforms, such as the Nouakchott and Djibouti processes and calls for their further strengthening at the higher political level; further stresses the need for promoting similar processes in other regions of the Continent;
9.    Requests the Chairperson of the Commission to regularly brief the Council on the status of the implementation of the Common African Defence and Security Policy and other relevant AU instruments on defence and security in the continent, in line with Article 14 of the Preamble of the Solemn Declaration of the Common African Defence and Security Policy, with a view to providing the opportunity to Council to review implementation and address any challenges that may be identified; In this regard, agrees to receive such briefing at least twice a year with the participation of CISSA;
10.    Requests the PSC Military Staff Committee to undertake a comprehensive study on foreign military presence and military bases in Africa, its advantages and disadvantages and submit proposals on the way forward for consideration by the PSC; in this context, agrees to provide a special report, within the spirit of the efforts to silence the guns in Africa, and to do so simultaneously with the report of the PSC on its Activities and the State of Peace and Security in Africa to the ordinary session of the Assembly of the AU to take place in January/February 2020;
11.    Decides to remain seized of the matter.</blockquote>

FULL TEXT: AU's PSC Statement On The State Of Foreign Military Presence In Africa

President Emmerson Mnangagwa met his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa at the Heads of State and Government for the 12th Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTFA) on Sunday in Niger.
President Mnangagwa said last Friday <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/07/05/ed-to-ask-for-more-electricity-in-meeting-with-ramaphosa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">that he will be meeting Ramaphosa to explore possibilities of South Africa exporting more electricity to Zimbabwe</a> as the country experience crippling power cuts.
Writing on social media after the meeting, President Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>Always good to catch up with my friend and comrade, President @CyrilRamaphosa. Our two nations are part of the same family and I look forward to further strengthening the close ties between South Africa and Zimbabwe for the benefit of both peoples.</blockquote>
https://twitter.com/edmnangagwa/status/1147870986496356352

ED Meets Cyril Ramaphosa In Niamey, Niger

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is in Niamey, Niger where he joins other Heads of State and Government for the 12th Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTFA).
The Summit is running under the theme “Refugees, Returnees and Internally Displaced Persons: Towards Durable Solutions to forced displacement in Africa.”
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Sibusiso Moyo said that the AfCTA was signed in Kigali in 2018 with two other agreements. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>Firstly, there was an agreement on free air movement within the continent. Then the second was free movement of people agreement and the final was the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
All these agreements were signed in Kigali last year, particularly the AfCFTA, which was to only come into fruition after 22-member countries had signed the agreement and launched the instruments of ratification with the AU.
Our President will join other colleagues to be one of the founding members of the AfCFTA.
This means that it is now going to be operationalised and as a nation, we must be ready to participate in the US$4 trillion markets of the African continent.</blockquote>
Minister Moyo urged local industries to take advantage of the opportunities that the coming into force of AfCTA will provide as it presents opportunities for them to export goods and services to the African market.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/ed-in-historic-au-meeting/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sunday News</a></h4>

President Mnangagwa In Niger For The AU Extraordinary Summit

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WATCH: President Mnangagwa On Arrival In Niamey, Niger

The Ministry of Information said that President Emmerson Mnangagwa will on Saturday leave the country for Niamey, the Republic of Niger to attend the 12th Extraordinary on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) of the African Union.
The Summit will be dedicated to the launch of the operational phase of the AfCFTA as well as its operational instruments.

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