Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 26 September 2025

Fri Sep 26 09:15:20 CAT 2025

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Major International Business Headlines Brief :::  26  September  2025 

 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

ü  South Africa: Vandalism Cripples 700 Eskom Units

ü  Nigerian Students Warn Against Sabotage of Dangote Refinery

ü  Rwanda: Why Rwanda Is Betting On Small Modular Reactors for Nuclear Energy

ü  Namibia MP Blames Gambling and Spending for Citizen Debt Crisis

ü  Namibia: Govt Payroll Deductions Explained

ü  Nigeria: Uber Contributed N34 Billion to Nigeria's Economy in 2023 - Report

ü  South Africa: Government Plans to Eliminate Load Reduction

ü  Namibia: Amta Warns About Food Waste Rising Without Agro-Processing Facilities

ü  Nigeria: 3,488 Ghost Workers Uncovered in Katsina Government's Payroll

ü  Ethiopia: PM Abiy Unveils Ethiopia's Roadmap for Nuclear Infrastructure Aligned With Global Standards

ü  Ethiopia, China Sign MOU to Boost Cooperation in Digital and Emerging Technologies

ü  Ethiopia: GERD Stands As Historic Milestone, Aspiration for Development

ü  Kenya: Geothermal Development Company Urges Court to Dismiss Suit By 62 Employees

ü  Ethiopia: UN Chief Congratulates Ethiopia On Historic GERD Inauguration

ü  Namibia: Breakthrough in Fishermen Wages Talks

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South Africa: Vandalism Cripples 700 Eskom Units

More than 700 transformers, belonging to Eskom, are failing due to vandalism and illegal connections, reports EWN. Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said that while this is a cause for concern, the power utility is currently performing at a 70% energy availability level. According to Ramakgopa, illegal connections are slowing efforts to end load shedding.  He announced a target of 12 months to end load reduction and roll out new specialised smart meters that can detect illegal connections and determine if households qualify for free power. Ramokgopa also promised to move on with plans to refurbish and maintain critical infrastructure in affected areas. In his remarks, he urged communities not to disrupt teams during their work.

Free State Launches Integrated Strategy to Tackle Crime and Violence

The Free State Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport intends to fight crime in the province through the launch of the Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy to create safer communities, reports SABC News. In 2022, the Cabinet endorsed a national framework developed by civil society for police services as part of the National Development Plan 2030. The strategy aims to curb some of the heinous crimes in society, which appear to be on the rise, like gender-based violence and kidnappings. MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport, Jabu Mbalula, has said that the plan intends to shift the country from reactive policing to proactive preventative work.

Lawmakers to Decide on Knysna Council's Future

The National Council of Provinces (NCOP)  is set to decide whether to dissolve the Knysna Municipality over service delivery issues, reports EWN. The Select Committee on Cooperative Governance is divided over a request from local government MEC Anton Bredell, following a meeting held. The committee's eleven members say they do not support dissolution, and they are confident that the municipality's turnaround plan will be closely monitored. Mayor Thando Matika accused Bredell of politicking and interference in the African National Congress (ANC)-led municipality. In spite of Bredell's warnings that residents could suffer health problems as a result of sewage spills and water supply issues, interest groups argued that dissolving the council and the instability it would bring until new elections were held would not be a good idea. The committee has asked the council to submit a water and sanitation plan within two weeks. The Democratic Alliance (DA) and Freedom Front (FF) Plus did not support the recommendation and said that the problems at the town warrant it being placed under administration. The final decision will rest with the House.

Nigerian Students Warn Against Sabotage of Dangote Refinery

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has declared that the country's youths will resist any attempt to undermine the operations of the Dangote Refinery.

Its national president, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, issued a statement in Abuja, said the project represents the collective destiny of over 200 million Nigerians.

According to him, the completion and operation of the refinery, with a refining capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, marks a turning point for Nigeria's economic survival.

"With Nigeria's average daily fuel consumption standing at about 550,000 barrels per day, this refinery has the potential to make our nation self-sufficient and create room for export, thereby changing the narrative of fuel importation," he said.

Oladoja urged stakeholders, particularly the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, to place national interest above personal gain.

He stressed that Nigerian students would resist any cartel, group or institution--domestic or foreign--that attempts to frustrate the project.

"This is a battle for the survival of our economy and the dignity of our nation," he added.

The NANS leader commended Alhaji Aliko Dangote for what he described as unmatched patriotism, saying his decision to invest massively in Nigeria rather than abroad was proof of his love for the country.

Oladoja noted that the refinery would not only create jobs but also sustain the economy for generations.

"This is not just about a refinery. It is about survival, sovereignty and the dignity of our nation.

NANS is watching, and we will not allow vested interests to mortgage our future," he declared.

Read the original article on Leadership.

Rwanda: Why Rwanda Is Betting On Small Modular Reactors for Nuclear Energy

Moscow — Rwanda is turning to nuclear energy through small modular reactors (SMRs) as it seeks to accelerate industrialisation and secure a stable power supply for its growing economy.

Lassina Zerbo, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Rwanda Atomic Energy Board, said this on the sidelines of the World Atomic Week, the largest global gathering dedicated to nuclear and related industries, held in Moscow, Russia, from September 25-28.

"People ask me, 'Rwanda has solar power and hydropower, so why nuclear?' My answer is simple--show me one big industry that runs entirely on solar. Industrialisation cannot rely on intermittent sources like solar or wind," Zerbo told The New Times.

"If Rwanda wants to leapfrog in socio-economic development, we need a stable, reliable, and clean source of energy. That's where nuclear comes in."

While most SMRs are still under development globally, Rwanda is already working to build local expertise.

According to Zerbo, the goal is to have the first reactor by the early 2030s, timed to meet the growing energy demand.

ALSO READ: Inside Rwanda's plan to set up 110 MW nuclear power plants

Unlike conventional nuclear power plants that require vast amounts of land and extensive safety buffers, SMRs are smaller and more adaptable, Zerbo noted.

"Micro-reactors are even smaller--fitting into a 40-foot container. One micro-reactor could power up to 3,000 families continuously for 16 to 20 years without maintenance. That's a quick win for countries like ours," he added.

Although financing and regulatory frameworks remain a challenge for nuclear projects worldwide, Zerbo said Rwanda is working with global partners to address both.

ALSO READ: Financiers urged to embrace nuclear energy as key power source

"The World Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and others are shifting their stance to support nuclear projects. With private-public partnerships, this will be possible," he said.

Andrey Rozhdestvin, Director General of Russian nuclear energy corporation Rosatom Energy Projects, said it was recently announced that global nuclear capacity should double by 2050, with about 25 per cent expected to come from SMRs.

ALSO READ: Small modular reactors key to Rwanda's energy sovereignty - Atomic Energy Board Chair

Additionally, he pointed out that SMRs are well-suited for specific industries and remote regions.

"The vision is to use SMRs as a starting point for countries new to nuclear, then gradually move to large-scale power plants," he said.

"That way, countries can start generating electricity earlier while building the infrastructure and financing for bigger projects."

Read the original article on New Times.

Namibia MP Blames Gambling and Spending for Citizen Debt Crisis

Swapo member of parliament Pohamba Shifeta blames gambling for the debt crisis facing many Namibians.

Shifeta proposes that education on how to borrow money be provided, citing that many people are financially burdened due to their borrowing habits.

Shifeta said this yesterday while addressing fellow parliamentarians on a motion seeking to determine if existing laws truly protect people from loan sharks.

Popular Democratic Movement parliamentarian Inna Hengari tabled the motion in June.

"Some people borrow money for gambling and also for consumption, how can you borrow money for that? We need to educate our people that borrowing money to build or invest is the only way, not for gambling," he said.

He said it is difficult to keep track of such hidden, money-lending businesses, and more needs to be done.

"Those informal lenders who are not registered with the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority make it difficult to regulate them as they are outside the regulations.

So, we need to find a way to hold these businesses accountable, just like the Microlending Act of 2018 now prohibits the retention of clients' bank cards, PINs and identification documents, these lenders must be regulated too," said Shifeta.

Independent Patriots for Change member of parliament Elvis Lizazi proposes that parliament pass a law so that the Bank of Namibia is required to prescribe a lower maximum lending rate than the current 30%.

Affirmative Repositioning member of parliament Federick Shitana urges parliamentarians to act and address the matter.

"We all are aware of the suffering of the people and we even know some. I think it is now on us to ensure we act swiftly and address the matter," he says.

Some parliamentarians have attributed the borrowing of money from loan sharks to issues inherited from colonial times.

Read the original article on Namibian.

Namibia: Govt Payroll Deductions Explained

The decision to cease payroll deductions on the government Payroll Deduction Management System (PDMS) by 30 November will not mark the end game for civil servants, the Ministry of Finance's Executive Director Michael Humavindu has assured.

Humavindu said a review process and wide consultations with stakeholders are currently underway on the matter and other alternatives could be introduced.

The ministry issued a directive on 28 August, informing government employees and financial institutions that all discretionary payroll deductions through the PDMS, which is operated by Avril Payment Solutions, will be discontinued come 30 November.

The phasing out of the PDMS will mean that lenders will now be required to conduct proper affordability valuations and carry more risk themselves.

For thousands of civil servants, the end of payroll deductions is expected to significantly affect how they structure their monthly payments and how they will be accessing credit going forward.

The ministry's directive indicated that after 30 November, no new discretionary payroll deductions may be loaded onto the PDMS and that only existing loans already linked to the system will continue to be serviced until they are fully repaid. However, statutory deductions such as employee tax payments, pension and social security contributions will remain uninterpreted on the system.

Employees have been advised to make alternative payment arrangements through bank debit orders to service new loans, insurance premiums, union fees and any other voluntary financial undertakings.

Not final

Humavindu, while calling for calmness amongst thousands of distraught civil servants who stand to be directly affected by the latest directive, explained that the move is not a punitive measure of any sort and nor is it meant to push Namibians further into financial ruin.

"We are not doing away with it. We are basically implementing something that was started already in the 2000s when industry players came together with the central bank and the ministry to look at what was causing this huge over indebtedness of government employees in terms of us having this system. It doesn't help to provide loans to someone and that person ends up with a N$15.00 after all deductions per month.

"So, the industry itself at the time decided to create what is called the Enhanced Debit Order (EnDo) system, which it introduced in 2021. So, we are not doing away with the system but essentially saying that given the fact that the contract is ending, let us also come together and see how we can either enhance it or look at other ways on how to do it," said Humavindu.

He continued: "In our letter sent to the industry, the ministry basically said since that contract [PDMS] is ending and it speaks to a public procurement function and requirements, we will in the meantime take over that process. However, for new loans, you now need to go to what the industry created which is called the EnDo debit order platform, which is for all industry players."

Industry players

The sprawling effects of this decision is already being felt, as Agribank yesterday was the latest lender to announce a moratorium on its salary-backed loan facilities for all government employees.

"Agribank hereby informs the public that, following the announcement by the Ministry of Finance regarding the termination of services with Avril Payment Solutions (APS), no new personal loans for government employees will be processed through the APS platform. As a result, Agribank has placed an immediate moratorium on its salary-backed loan facility for government employees," the bank's CEO Raphael Karuaihe said.

The bank's salary-backed loans were introduced to enhance financial inclusion for farmers without collateral and promote agricultural activities in both communal and commercial areas by providing access to finance with repayments effected through payroll deduction.

Last week, Letshego Holdings Namibia and its subsidiaries, Letshego Bank and Letshego Micro Financial Services, also announced that they had, effective immediately, suspended all new salary-backed loans to government employees in response to a directive from the finance ministry.

Limitations

Touching on what triggered government to institute such a move, Humavindu explained that the decision is associated with procurement limitations, regulatory concerns raised by both the central bank and the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (Namfisa).

He added that the latest move also aims to have a deeper look into the integrity of the national payment system, as some microlenders are heavily relied on payroll safeguards to recoup their money rather than conducting affordability checks and balances as required by law.

"Some of the microlenders and other financial institutions felt that they were being excluded from the Ministry of Finance deduction code system.

So, the industry then said, let's create an open field where all of us can participate. As said, we are now busy doing stakeholder consultations, and we still have to consult our leadership on the outcome. We will meet the unions and continue speaking to institutions that might be affected going forward. And of course, regulators such as Namfisa will be in the stakeholder consultations, making presentations, and not only the ministry."

"In the next three months, we want the industry to start migrating to the EnDo platform that they created, also, during those three months, we will look at other alternatives in terms of the current system of code deduction management system because it is a public procurement matter where you have to go to the Central Procurement Board if we perhaps come up with another solution that we might want to pursue after this contract ends.

We also have a national consumer credit law that is being worked on with Namfisa which will create a balance between debtors and creditors," explained Humavindu.

Out of more than 900 financial intermediaries, only seven have access to the government payroll deduction system, which creates an uncompetitive market for other lenders.

Difficulties ahead

Going forward, loan approvals are expected to become more difficult, particularly for lower-income and rural employees, as lenders will no longer have the security of direct payroll collection, and this will likely tighten lending terms and reduce loan sizes.

On the other hand, banks and microlenders are also expected to increase interest rates and fees to cover higher risk, which could make even small monthly repayments more expensive once debit order charges are applied.

Read the original article on New Era.

Nigeria: Uber Contributed N34 Billion to Nigeria's Economy in 2023 - Report

An impact assessment report released by Public First, has revealed how Uber, a ride hailing company, contributed N34 billion to Nigeria's economy in 2023.

The report was released at the recent Lagos Road Mobility Summit, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Transport, in partnership with Uber, to advance dialogue on safer, more inclusive transport.

Themed: 'Reimagining an Inclusive Road Safety Strategy', the summit brought together senior government officials, including representatives from the Lagos State Ministry of Transport, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority and the World Bank's SSATP team, alongside regulators, global safety experts, and private sector leaders.

The event also marked the launch of Uber's Nigeria Economic Impact Report, conducted by Public First, which revealed that Uber contributed an estimated ₦34 billion to Nigeria's economy in 2023, with riders enjoying a consumer surplus valued at nearly N500 billion through time, cost, and convenience savings.

Beyond the figures, the report tells the story of everyday Nigerians - drivers who earn and gain flexibility to support their families, women who rely on Uber for safe journeys home, and communities benefitting from stronger tourism, nightlife, and local business growth.

According to the report, Uber has become a lifeline for both income and independence for thousands of Nigerians, as drivers using the app earned N6.1 billion more in 2023, with average earnings sitting at 34 per cent higher than their next best alternative. The report also found that flexibility, the freedom to decide when and how to work, carried an additional financial value of N6.3 billion. Almost nine in ten drivers (88 per cent) said the flexibility helps them balance their family responsibilities.

A driver in Abuja explained: "With Uber, I choose my hours. I can take my children to school, then drive during the day, and still be home in the evening. It gives me control over my life."

Giving details about the impact report, General Manager for Uber sub-Saharan Africa, Deepesh Thomas, said: "Uber is more than a way to move from points A to B, it's a platform that empowers people to shape their own futures. From drivers who value the flexibility of earning on their own terms, to women who feel safer getting home at night, to local businesses reaching more customers, Uber is proud to be part of Nigeria's growth story."

The study revealed that 98 per cent of riders cite convenience, 97 per cent cite safety, and 96 per cent cite comfort as key reasons for using the app. Women in particular feel the difference, as 78 per cent said Uber is the safest way for them to get home at night. And as nightlife grows, 79 per cent of riders agreed that Uber helps reduce drunk driving by providing a safe and reliable way to travel after dark.

A young professional in Lagos summed it up: "If I'm working late, I know I can get home safely with Uber. My family can track my trip, and that peace of mind is priceless."

The summit featured a high-level panel discussion with transport leaders, including General Manager, Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LASTMA), Olalekan Bakare-Oki, represented by Director of Logistics & Transport at LASTMA, Jubril Oshodi; Head of Driver Operations, West Africa, Uber, Efunlola Hughes; CEO, Drive Me NG, Damilola Odunlade-Akeju; and Director, Public Transport and Commuter Services (PTCS), Ministry of Transport, Olusoji Adebayo.

By convening policymakers, regulators, safety advocates, and industry operators under one roof, the summit underscored the importance of collaboration in tackling Nigeria's road safety crisis and highlighted the role of technology-driven platforms like Uber in creating safer, smarter, and more inclusive transport systems.

Read the original article on This Day.

South Africa: Government Plans to Eliminate Load Reduction

In the next 12 to 18 months, government will work aggressively to eliminate load reduction by rolling out smart meters, dealing with illegal electricity connections and upgrading infrastructure.

Load reduction refers to the intentional interruption of electricity in specific areas where the local network becomes overloaded, especially during peak demand periods.

This measure is essential to safeguard critical infrastructure, particularly in areas affected by high energy losses or illegal connections that place excessive strain on the isolated networks.

According to the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, 1.69 million customers are affected by load reduction in the country.

This translates into about 8.5million people when considering the number of people in those households. The centre of this load reduction is in Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.

"We are going to make sure that we address the multiple manifestations of the electricity deficit in the country. Today, I am announcing that we are ending load reduction in the country. This can be achieved anywhere between 12 to 18 months," the Minister said at a briefing in Pretoria on Thursday.

With government having largely addressed load shedding, the Minister addressed the media on the interventions that will be implemented to tackle load reduction.

"One of the first things that we will be doing is to rollout of smart meters. The smart meters will enable us to isolate customers that are able to pay for electricity but are not doing so, and not make the rest of the customers who are connected to the same transformer collateral damage. It gives us technical agility for us to isolate those who choose not to pay for electricity," the Minister said.

There are about 2.1 million customers on the Eskom side that qualify for free basic electricity but only 485 000 customers are getting the free basic electricity.

"And yet, National Treasury is allocating funds to municipalities to ensure that the poor get free basic electricity. Once we have rolled out smart meters, we will be able to frontload the allocation for free basic electricity for a household that qualifies to get free basic electricity.

"For that to succeed, we need municipalities to work with us to create and generate a robust indigent register. As a result of this rollout, we will be able to achieve universal access so that when we say load shedding is behind us, we mean that there should be no load reduction and we are not going to discriminate against anyone," he said.

To ensure that those who qualify for free basic electricity are susbisidised correctly, the Department of Electricity and Energy will review the Free Basic Electricity Framework (FBE).

The policy provides for indigent households with a monthly quota of electricity (typically 50 kWh) to cover essential needs like basic lighting and mobile phone charging.

"We know that an average low-income household consumes about 200 kilowatt hours of electricity per month. If we talk about 100% subsidisation of the poor, it means that the 50kWh per month of free basic electricity should be shifted to 200 kilowatt hours per month.

"We are going to change the framework without relying on the fiscal envelope, so we don't have to approach the Minister of Finance for more funds," the Minister said.

While the interventions are good news for consumers, the Minister said government expects resistance from some communities that have been connected illegally to the grid.

"We know that there are those who are profiting from the illegal electricity connections. Some of them are delinquent employees of Eskom and municipalities that are connecting people illegally.

"We expect them to agitate those communities to resist our presence because we are taking an illegally earned income that they have accumulated over time at the detriment of consumers in the area," the Minister said.

There is a total of 771 transformer failures, with a large part of them being attributed to illegal connections.

"As part of this effort [to deal with illegal connections], we are going to regularise people. We are going to go to an area, typically an informal area, assuming that the municipality has formalised the area and rollout infrastructure so that everyone has access to electricity that is legally procured," he said.

To accelerate the rollout of smart meters, government will work with businesses who manufacture them to ensure the product meets Eskom standards.

Government will also refurbish and maintain the distribution and reticulation infrastructure.

"We will also be rolling out distribution infrastructure reticulated by installing solar and battery storage. We are electrifying communities, this has already been done in two villages in Musina, Limpopo," the Minister said.

Read the original article on SAnews.gov.za.

Namibia: Amta Warns About Food Waste Rising Without Agro-Processing Facilities

The Agro Marketing and Trade Agency (Amta) is warning that Namibia is producing more food but lacks the agro-processing capacity needed to preserve and market it.

Amta's monitoring and evaluation officer, Harbie Myambo, says the shortage of facilities is leading to waste, limiting farmers' earnings, and slowing efforts to achieve food security and industrialisation.

"Young farmers have potential. But as a government we do not have enough capacity.

"We do not develop enough capacity in terms of value addition and agro processing. So that is the reality in the field," Myambo says.

He cites tomatoes as an example.

"A farmer produces two tonnes of tomatoes, they come to Amta, but there is no market because we are competing with the private sector.

"As a public entity of the government we sit there and things go bad," he says.

Myambo says value chains must be strengthened.

"Linking primary production with agro processing and value addition is key in terms of employment, in terms of poverty alleviation.

"It will even address the issue of rural-to-urban migration," he says.

Minister of agriculture, fisheries, water and land reform Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi says agro-processing is central to government strategy.

"Indeed agriculture is the number-one priority of the sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).

"And as such it requires all of us to participate in ensuring we increase food production, enhance productivity, and ensure agriculture continues to contribute to our gross domestic product," she says.

Zaamwani-Kamwi says the government will set up new infrastructure and absorb more young people in the sector.

"There is also room for their participation in the new industry that is listed in the NDP6 in terms of agro processing.

"We are required to set up 14 agro processing facilities in all the regions."

She says new trade deals are opening markets for Namibian products.

"We then sign protocols, trade protocols with several countries. Specifically we have signed recently with China. We have protocol with the Middle East for certain products.

"We have agreements to access the United Statea market, the European markets, and through those agreements we have then, our farmers have access to those international markets," Zaamwani-Kamwi says.

Read the original article on Namibian.

Nigeria: 3,488 Ghost Workers Uncovered in Katsina Government's Payroll

The Katsina State Government has identified 3,488 ghost workers and multiple cases of fraud following a sweeping biometric audit of workers in its 34 Local Government Areas and Local Education Authorities.

Announcing the findings at a State Executive Council (SEC) meeting, Biometric Screening Committee chairman, Abdullahi Gagare, revealed that of 50,172 staff were screened, only 46,380 were successfully verified.

The rest were removed for offences, including fake credentials, falsified birth dates, underage employment, absenteeism, illegal promotions, and even "subletting" of staff positions.

The committee also recovered ₦4.6 million from employees who collected salaries from both State and federal agencies and identified six staff members who continued to earn wages while on leave of absence.

In one striking case, the Education Secretary of Zango Local Education Authority (LEA) allegedly presented 24 ghost workers for verification.

Governor Umaru Dikko Radda ordered an immediate white paper to implement the committee's recommendations, vowing that the reforms will redirect funds to grassroots development and save the state from the grip of a few.

"Many warned the committee's work could hurt my politics and cost me elections, but Katsina State needs reforms to free resources for the people," the governor said.

According to the governor, local government area councils have already saved ₦500 million, a figure expected to rise to ₦5.7 billion once all fraudulent payments were halted.

The discovery marked one of the largest payroll fraud in Katsina State's history and highlighted the state's push for transparency and fiscal discipline.

Read the original article on Leadership.

Ethiopia: PM Abiy Unveils Ethiopia's Roadmap for Nuclear Infrastructure Aligned With Global Standards

Addis Ababa — Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underscored that Ethiopia has already taken concrete steps, with a roadmap developed in partnership with the Russian Federation to build nuclear infrastructure, train personnel, and strengthen regulatory frameworks.

The international forum World Atomic Week, the largest event dedicated to the nuclear sector and related industries, commenced on Thursday in Moscow.

The event, timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Russian nuclear industry, is being held at Moscow's Exhibition of National Economy Achievements (VDNH).

Speaking at the opening of the event, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia stands at the pivotal moment. "Our youths are vibrant, our cities are modernizing, our industries are growing and our economy is among the fastest rising in the world. But our ambitions are higher - ambitions that demand reliable, clean and scalable energy. Hydropower, solar and wind have carried us far. Yet alone, they cannot power the future we are building."

For more than a decade, Ethiopia has been a champion of green energy. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the largest in Africa, stands as a symbol of our determination, the Prime Minister pointed out.

"Our vision goes beyond today. To transform our nation, we look ahead and embrace what is possible," he revealed.

Noting that nuclear technology is a possibility, he said it provides reliable low low-emission power, strengthens food security, equips doctors, optimizes water management, and empowers our scientists to innovate.

According to Abiy, for Ethiopia, nuclear power is not only about energy, it's about people, adding that it will unlock knowledge for our students, provide tools for farmers, and bring healing to patients. It is about expanding a foundation where opportunities multiply, he added.

"We will pursue this responsibly with careful planning, the highest safety standards, and by building strong local capacity. For us, nuclear power is the strategic step in becoming an active participant in artificial intelligence, in industry and innovation," Abiy noted.

In this context, Prime Minister Abiy recognized the Russian Federation, which this year celebrates 80 years of its nuclear industry, stating that Russia has shown the world what science can achieve when matched with vision.

Ethiopia is ready to deepen its partnership with Russia, combining their expertise with our skilled workforce and growing market to create a model of cooperation that powers our nation and inspires our continent, he elaborated.

"With more than 130 million people, we cannot afford to wait. Nuclear energy is essential to secure long-term development, diversify our energy mix, and realize Ethiopia's potential."

Speaking on Ethiopia's aspiration to build nuclear, he stated that "our goal is clear - a nuclear program that is safe, transparent and exemplary."

"That's why we have chosen to pursue the peaceful use of nuclear energy with seriousness and alignment with international standards. We're also enjoying a huge amount of support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which is our partner on building this project," he said.

PM Abiy further elaborated that Ethiopia has already taken concrete steps, a roadmap with the Russian Federation lays out plans to build nuclear infrastructure, train personnel, and strengthen regulatory frameworks.

A Nuclear Science and Technology Center is about to be established, and cooperation in peaceful applications of nuclear science is expanding, he further stated.

"We are building the institutions, training talent, and designing a future where nuclear energy strengthens our sovereignty, supports our growth, and serves the next generation.

The premier stated that Ethiopia is committed to partnerships based on trust, knowledge, and mutual respect, adding that "We welcome cooperation and technology transfer, and safety training and reflect the realities of our economies."

Read the original article on ENA.

Ethiopia, China Sign MOU to Boost Cooperation in Digital and Emerging Technologies

Addis Ababa — Ethiopia and China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on digital and emerging technologies that accelerate Ethiopia's digital economy transformation and create jobs.

The meeting between ministers of the two countries fostered dialogue on areas for joint action in digital technology, reflecting their long-standing diplomatic ties.

Speaking during the signing of the MoU, Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola said the upgraded bilateral relationship into a strategic partnership in 2023 has propelled cooperation across key sectors.

The Minister emphasized Ethiopia's commitment to realizing its "Digital Ethiopia 2025" vision, an ambitious plan that includes expansion in AI, IoT, big data cloud services, satellite communications, fiber-optic infrastructure, and 5G networks to enhance public digital service delivery and create employment opportunities for youth.

According to him, Ethiopia is prioritizing digital economy development with strong government support, promoting transparency and accountability through policy and strategic frameworks.

China's Industry and Information Technology Minister Li Lecheng underlined his country's extensive experience in digital infrastructure development and its desire to deepen ICT cooperation with Africa.

He expressed China's commitment to sharing expertise to strengthen Ethiopia's capacity and ensure mutually beneficial outcomes from the partnership.

Both ministers have noted the growing importance of digital technology in improving citizens' quality of life and advancing national development agendas.

They further agreed that exchanging knowledge and expertise will make the strategic partnership more productive and impactful.

The MoU symbolizes a milestone in Ethiopia-China diplomatic and technological collaboration that dates back to 1970, it was learned.

The MoU is expected to accelerate Ethiopia's digital transformation and contribute to sustainable socioeconomic development, benefiting both countries and their people.

Moreover, it aims to boost joint initiatives in telecommunications foundation expansion, emerging technology industries, and cooperative projects that enhance the digital economy landscape in Ethiopia and the broader African region.

Read the original article on ENA.

Ethiopia: GERD Stands As Historic Milestone, Aspiration for Development

Addis Ababa — The Government Communication Service (GCS) has reaffirmed that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) stands as a historic achievement and a powerful emblem of Ethiopia's aspirations for development, unity, and sovereignty.

In a formal book launch ceremony held today in Addis Ababa, a new publication titled "Berhan Fentakyiw Abay" (loosely translated as "The Light That Shone from Abay") was officially released by the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA).

The event highlighted the transformative role GERD has played in the country's modern history and development trajectory.

State Minister of the GCS, Tesfahun Gobezai, speaking at the event, emphasized the dam's broader national significance.

The GERD is not merely a massive infrastructure project; it is a historic landmark that fulfills Ethiopia's long-standing development goals, he stated, adding that this generation has overcome immense challenges to reach this milestone, and we must document these sacrifices for future generations.

The event was attended by key national figures, including Azmera Andemo, Deputy Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Democracy Affairs in the House of People's Representatives, Masefint Tefera, CEO of the Ethiopian Press Agency, and other dignitaries.

According to Tesfahun, the newly launched book chronicles not only the engineering and political journey of the dam but also the spirit of national unity and resilience that made its completion possible.

CEO of EPA Masefint Tefera echoed this sentiment, noting that the official inauguration of the GERD, which took place on September 9, 2025, marked a pivotal chapter in Ethiopia's modern narrative.

This project faced intense scrutiny, both domestically and internationally, but it stands today as a testament to the unyielding determination of the Ethiopian people, he said.

He added that "Berhan Fentakyiw Abay" serves as a comprehensive historical record of the people's century-old dream and the collective sacrifices made to see it through.

The book also explores the deep cultural, historical, and emotional connection between the Ethiopian people and the Abay River, offering insights for future generations of researchers and historians.

Read the original article on ENA.

Kenya: Geothermal Development Company Urges Court to Dismiss Suit By 62 Employees

Nairobi — The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) has urged the court to dismiss a petition filed by 62 of its employees, arguing that the workers are pushing a selfish agenda designed to keep union benefits while enjoying management perks.

The company said the employees, who were redesignated from Grade 8 (unionisable staff) to Grade 7 (management), now want to cling to allowances reserved for union members under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, such as overtime, while still pocketing higher salaries, house allowance, and commuter benefits given to management.

In its affidavit, GDC argues that it is standard human resource practice worldwide that management staff are not entitled to overtime pay. Instead, the company says it has introduced a call-out allowance for managers who work beyond normal hours.

The state-owned firm has also defended its medical scheme, explaining that while unionisable employees can cover a spouse and six children, management staff are entitled to fewer dependents a spouse and four children but with superior benefits for each beneficiary.

On hardship allowance, GDC argues it is bound by government directives and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), which has regularized the allowance at Sh12,300

The company through lawyer Ceceil Miller further notes that there has been no gazette notice or SRC circular authorizing an increase in Nakuru staff's house allowance from Sh35,000 to the Sh40,000 payable to Nairobi employees, despite Nakuru's elevation to city status.

The company added that the High Court has already suspended new management guidelines issued in May 2024 making some of the employees' prayers legally untenable.

"The petitioners want to retain union benefits while enjoying management privileges and at the same time block new graduates with similar qualifications from earning equally," GDC said, warning that taxpayers risk losing money that cannot be recovered if the petition succeeds.

The workers, led by Evans Kiplagat Kimaiyo, had earlier sued the company accusing it of unfair labour practices and discrimination.

They argue that their redesignation to management stripped them of allowances they previously enjoyed under union terms, leaving them disadvantaged compared to their peers in similar state corporations.

They also faulted the company's medical scheme, claiming that management cover is inferior to that of unionisable staff, and insisted that the changes breached their constitutional rights to equality, fair labour practices, and fair remuneration.

The petitioners want the court to either reinstate them to union terms or compel GDC to harmonize their pay and allowances with those enjoyed by other public sector workers in comparable grades.

The case is currently pending before the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Nairobi.

Read the original article on Capital FM.

Ethiopia: UN Chief Congratulates Ethiopia On Historic GERD Inauguration

Addis Ababa — UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres congratulated Ethiopia on the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), its recent success in hosting a climate summit and other projects.

President Taye Atske Selassie met with Guterres on the margins of UN General Assembly.

The Secretary-General congratulated Ethiopia on the inauguration of the Renaissance Dam, its recent success in hosting a climate summit and other projects, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Earlier this month, Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam in the presence of African leaders.

Unlike many large-scale projects on the continent that depend heavily on foreign loans, the GERD was financed almost entirely by Ethiopians themselves.

This unique achievement has been widely hailed as a powerful model for African nations striving to build transformative infrastructure while safeguarding financial independence and freedom from external debt, it was learned.

President Taye Atske and the Secretary-General also discussed issues of mutual interest in the region and beyond.

Read the original article on ENA.

Namibia: Breakthrough in Fishermen Wages Talks

After nearly a year of tense negotiations, a breakthrough has finally been secured for hundreds of Namibian fishing industry workers.

The agreement delivers significant wins for workers in Lüderitz and Walvis Bay, including wage increases, improved allowances, and a pathway to permanent employment for temporary staff.

The agreement reached yesterday between NovaNam (Pty) Ltd and Lalandii (Pty) Ltd and Namibia Seamen and Allied Workers Union (Nasawu), will translate into a 6% annual wage increase for both permanent and temporary staff until October 2027, alongside a 16.36% rise in housing allowances this year. Employees will also benefit from annual bonuses, back pay dating to November 2024, and in-kind benefits such as 8kg of fish fry per year.

In addition, protective gear will be issued on an exchange basis once vessels resume operations. The deal, valid until 31 October 2027, also reaffirms the Recognition and Procedural Agreement, committing all parties to continued dialogue and fair labour practices going forward.

The agreement, valid until 31 October 2027, also reaffirms the Recognition and Procedural Agreement, ensuring ongoing dialogue and fair labour practices.

Mediation Averted Strike

Labour minister Fillemon Immanuel revealed that negotiations had reached a deadlock, with workers on the verge of industrial action before government stepped in.

"Last week, I personally travelled to Lüderitz to meet both workers and employers. From Friday through Sunday, we worked tirelessly to iron out the outstanding issues, and today we are signing this wage agreement," he said.

He praised the union for its persistence and reiterated government's commitment to balancing decent wages with company sustainability.

Employer and union reactions

NovaNam Managing Director, Edwin Kamatoto, welcomed the outcome:

"This agreement recognises the vital role of our employees and social partners. We are committed to paying a decent wage while safeguarding the sustainability of the company.

As the largest employer in Lüderitz and a backbone of the southern //Kharas economy, our responsibility extends to the broader community through employment and social projects.

This deal reflects the value of dialogue, fairness, and partnership."

Nasawu president, Paulus Hango, hailed the deal as "a milestone at the end of a marathon engagement that lasted nearly 12 months".

He thanked the minister for his direct involvement, which ensured a fair and balanced outcome for both workers and employers.

Read the original article on New Era.

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