The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, has directed the Executive to prioritise sports budgeting during budget formulation instead of relying on reallocations.

Among issued the directive while chairing the House on Tuesday, 16 April 2024 wherein she emphasised that the sports sector is one of the avenues through which Uganda is marketed internationally.

“Hosting and supporting sports come with opportunities for the country and gives the country a positive image,” she said.

Members of Parliament (MPs) rallied behind the Speaker, calling for more funding to the sports sector and appealed to the Executive, to avail funds in time for sport activities.

During the session, Hon. Andrew Ojok, the MP for Omoro County presented a motion to pay tribute to the Government of Uganda for the successful bid to host the 2024 and 2025 edition of the Africa Rugby Cup.

The Rugby Africa Cup is a two-year men’s rugby union tournament involving the top 16 African nations, organised by Rugby Africa.

Ojok said that the benefits that will accrue to Uganda for hosting the games include raising the global profile of Uganda, increased investment in sports infrastructure and social services, increased revenue and stimulating sport development as an economic and community development tool.

Prayers from the motion included urging government to provide Shs2,546,276,000 to the Uganda Rugby Union for their preparations to host the Rugby Africa Cup slated to run from 18 to 29 July 2024.

Hon. Elijah Mushemeza, the MP for Sheema County South petitioned the Government to provide the funds needed to facilitate the games because the games will attract investors with high returns.

Hon. Tonny Ayoo, the MP for Kwania County expressed concern over the slow adoption of rugby in the country. He requested that government releases money for the games since it will promote awareness about the sport.

“I attended one game with the Hon. Government Chief Whip and it rained. The whole ground was flooded. Can government provide funds to develop facilities for the games?” he asked.

The women legislators also supported the motion, adding their voice to the call to fund rugby with Hon. Santa Alum (UPC, District Woman Representative, Oyam) informing the House that although rugby has been a male dominated sport, the women’s rugby team has made significant progress and the Uganda Lady Cranes recently won a gold medal in Ghana.

“The team is set to represent Uganda in Poland and Madrid. They have become our ambassadors. In rugby, our flag is flying high. It is my humble request that the finance ministry gives the team the required money,” she said.

Hon. Mourine Osoru, the City Woman Representative for Arua, said that since it is the young people that mostly play the games, all forms of sports should be supported before querying why the pledge to build the Inzikuru Stadium has not been fulfilled.

“Remember that Dorcus Inzikuru was a golden girl and a stadium was to be built in her honour in West Nile. Can the minister update the House on what progress he has made?” she asked. 

Erute South County MP, Hon. Jonathan Odur, guided that the House amends the motion to include the two rugby editions so that the matter is handled holistically.

The State Minister for Sports. Hon. Peter Ogwang informed the House that rugby has marketed Uganda the most and committed to work together with Parliament and the Executive, to ensure that the money is incorporated in the next financial year.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

From April 16th to 18th, 2024, AU-IBAR and AUDA-NEPAD convened the 3rd Meeting of the Sustainable Aquaculture Development Working Group of the African Fisheries Reform Mechanism to formulate knowledge products and discuss key recommendations for African fisheries reform and sustainable development.

Mrs. Hellen Guebama, Fisheries Officer at AU-IBAR, speaking on behalf of Dr. Huyam Salih, noted that the initiative, supported by the EU-funded Fisheries Governance Project (FishGov), and being implemented under the African Fisheries Reform Mechanism has undergone restructuring to enhance its effectiveness. She observed, “We convene to further the goals of sustainable aquaculture development, in line with the FishGov2 Project’s objectives. Central to our meeting is the synthesis of identified issues for informed decision-making in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. We recognize the importance of knowledge dissemination and capacity building, involving African Union Centres of Excellence and key stakeholders in producing policy briefs and best practices.” Read the full speech

Dr. Bernice Mclean, Representative of AUDA-NEPAD, noted the importance of the growing aquaculture development on the continent and its contribution to aquatic food and dialogue. It’s important to continually communicate the gains of aquaculture on the continent. The role of The Aquaculture Network for Africa (ANAF) was highlighted as pivotal in enhancing a collaborative approach to the industry. The role of the private sector and non-state actors, including the 2017 establishment of the World Apiculture Society through Aquaculture Africa (AFRAQ), was further highlighted as crucial to share innovations and ensure that research is communicated to decision-makers. She emphasized: “These have proven to be useful platforms for development partners to share lessons and deliberate on future programs. It’s important that the working group engages in these processes and is able to share knowledge dissemination to ensure greater uptake.”

The statement by Egypt as the Chair of the Sustainable Aquaculture Development Working Group, was delivered by Prof. Adel Abdel Aleem Mahdy Shaheen. Prof Shaheen noted the importance of sustainable aquaculture but also the importance of making aquaculture sustainable. Many channels for aquaculture need to find ways of finding solutions. There’s a need to embrace technology, including networking among stakeholders through ANAF. It’s important for nutrition, poverty alleviation in countries, job creation, and for the youth and generations to come.

The meeting was officially opened by Ms. Rebecca Muritu, Acting Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, on behalf of the Principal Secretary, State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries. In her opening remarks, Ms. Muritu highlighted Africa’s fish resources’ potential for socio-economic growth and food security, noting aquaculture’s growth despite its small global share. Kenya’s progress in aquaculture was praised, emphasizing its role in the national food system and its vast potential for food production. Challenges such as policy coordination were acknowledged, with a call for fisheries reforms. Gratitude was expressed to participants for advancing aquaculture in Africa. Key statistics noted include Africa’s 2.57% share of global aquaculture production in 2020 and Kenya’s capacity to produce over 11 million metric tons of fish. Read the full speech

The three-day workshop on sustainable aquaculture development in Africa commenced with an official opening session featuring esteemed speakers such as the Director of Fisheries, the Director of AU-IBAR, a representative from AUDA-NEPAD, the Chair of the Sustainable Aquaculture Development Working Group, and the Honorable Minister of Kenya, Dr. Huyam Salih, along with Dr. Bernice McClean representing Egypt and the H.E. Minister for Fisheries.

The three-day meeting includes presentations on the background and objectives of the workshop, guidelines for the production and publication of knowledge products, and an overview of the proceedings and outcomes of the Second Aquaculture Working Group Meeting. Subsequent sessions delve into setting the scene with presentations on the status and need for continental and regional approaches for aquatic biosecurity control and aquatic ecosystem health in Africa, along with a SWOT analysis of sustainable aquaculture development in the region.

The discussion at the meeting delved into multifaceted dimensions crucial for advancing sustainable aquaculture in Africa, emphasizing the pivotal roles of collaboration, knowledge dissemination, and coordinated action. Participants underscored the importance of leveraging platforms like the Aquaculture Network for Africa to effectively disseminate knowledge and bridge the gap between research and actionable development initiatives. Biosecurity emerged as a key concern, with calls for regional collaboration and structured protocols to address transboundary challenges and facilitate market access. Furthermore, discussions emphasized the significance of seed quality, feed optimization, investment finance, extension services, value addition, and balanced regulations to foster a conducive environment for aquaculture growth while ensuring environmental sustainability and socio-economic development. Overall, the meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to strategize and identify actionable recommendations to propel sustainable aquaculture development across the continent. 

The workgroups discussed the various issues – synthesizing the issues for knowledge products and wrapping up with discussions on next steps and the adoption of a communique.

Members of the Working Group present at the meeting comprise Ms. Rebecca Muritu (representing His Excellency the Honourable Minister of The Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy of the Republic of Kenya); Representative of the CEO of AUDA-NEPAD, Dr. Bernice McClean; The Directors of Fisheries and Aquaculture of African Union Member States and their representatives; Representatives of Regional Economic Communities (ECOWAS); Representatives of Development Partners (FAO and AFDB); Representatives of Regional Fisheries Bodies and Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (LVFO); Representative of the African Union Centres of Excellence in Fisheries and Aquaculture (AU-COEs) CLAR; Non-State Actors in Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa (NSAs) (ANAF); and AU-IBAR staff.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).

His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, participated in meetings during the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan, held in Paris, France, which was co-organized by France, Germany and the European Union. The conference was attended by several countries as well as international and regional organizations aiming to further advance peace initiatives in Sudan. During the conference, His Excellency affirmed the UAE’s commitment to support international endeavors aimed at achieving a permanent and immediate ceasefire, finding a peaceful solution to the crisis, and continuing to provide aid to the Sudanese people. In this regard, the UAE pledged USD 100 million to support humanitarian efforts in Sudan and its neighboring countries. 

The high-level meetings addressed initiatives aiming to establish peace in Sudan, and ways to strengthen them. The meetings culminated in the adoption of a document outlining the principles that support resolving the conflict, which has been ongoing since April 2023, in addition to reinforcing humanitarian and diplomatic efforts to address the challenges faced by the Sudanese people. 

In a speech, HE Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan commended the extensive efforts of the UAE which aim to put an end to the crisis that has inflicted severe suffering on the Sudanese people. The UAE also called for a return to the political process in Sudan, and affirms the importance of international and regional collaboration to advance endeavors towards achieving an immediate and permanent ceasefire, and ensuring the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid. 

His Excellency emphasized the UAE’s efforts and the tangible initiatives the country has provided to mitigate the severity of the humanitarian conditions in Sudan and neighboring countries, as the total amount of relief aid provided to those affected by the conflict has reached USD 150 million, including medical, food and relief supplies. Additionally, the UAE has established a comprehensive field hospital in Abéché city, in the Republic of Chad, with a cost of USD 20 million, the second hospital opened by the UAE to support  Sudanese refugees.

His Excellency emphasized that the UAE’s aid to Sudan and neighboring countries reflects the unwavering commitment of the wise leadership to provide humanitarian and relief support to the brotherly Sudanese people, and keenness to address humanitarian challenges and continuously extending assistance and humanitarian support to Sudan. 

H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan additionally reaffirmed the UAE’s position calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, and the reaching of a peaceful solution for the crisis by returning to the political process, stressing that this requires prioritizing wisdom and reason. The UAE also called for joint efforts and collaboration to facilitate the ending of the conflict and a resolution to the crisis, to enhance the security and stability of Sudan and prevent further loss of life, while meeting the aspirations of the brotherly Sudanese people for development and prosperity.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs&International Cooperation.

RS South Africa (https://Africa.RSdelivers.com/), a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a global provider of product and service solutions for industrial customers, has signed up a new reseller in Kenya as a cornerstone of its reseller strategy across Africa.

“As the largest economy in East Africa, Kenya serves as our gateway for market expansion,” comments Prosper Shoniwa, Exports Business Development and Operational Manager, RS South Africa. Such collaboration transcends mere revenue growth. “It is about solidifying our brand presence and fostering lasting connections within the region.”

“The decision to partner with RS stems from our commitment to align ourselves with world-leading products and brands. RS represents excellence and innovation in the industry, making it the perfect fit for our strategic objectives. By joining forces with RS, we aim to offer our customers access to top-notch solutions that meet their evolving needs,” comments Sukhvinder Sagoo, Director, Hydromatics (www.Hydromaticsea.com).

Hydromatics will serve as a key reseller tasked with marketing and selling the full range of RS products in the marketplace. They have a long-standing presence in the Kenyan market, providing them with valuable insight into market dynamics and customer needs. This knowledge enables them to maintain optimal stock levels to reduce lead times and minimise downtime for corporate clients in terms of spare parts and components. Customers also stand to benefit from access to a technically proficient RS partner in Hydromatics, which is equipped to address their challenges effectively.

RS’s focus on Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) procurement streamlines purchasing processes, potentially saving corporates up to 35% in expenditure. Moreover, customers can expect top-notch service, thanks to RS’s commitment to deliver goods within four to six days. In addition, its in-country resellers are highly qualified professionals dedicated to understanding and addressing client needs comprehensively, ensuring a seamless experience.

“Our strategy is clearly focused on corporate customers, key accounts and appointment of resellers in our focus countries. Adding to this is the critical discussion around MRO, which is our unique value proposition. We believe that this clear route to market strategy and our value proposition will drive our growth in Sub-Saharan Africa,” concludes Shoniwa.

For more information about our extensive product range, visit: www.RSonline.Africa

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.

PR Contact Person – RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications&Content Specialist
Africa Exports
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366

Media Contact Person – NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763

Further information is available via these links:
Twitter : https://apo-opa.co/3T0ICwS 
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3I5UIyE
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3T2j16J
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RS South Africa: https://apo-opa.co/48m0si7
DesignSpark: https://apo-opa.co/4bJaCwo
RS Group plc: https://apo-opa.co/49isz2Z

About RS Group:
RS is a trading brand of RS Group plc, providing product and service solutions that help our customers design, build, maintain, repair and operate industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 750,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to 1.1 million customers.

We support customers across the product lifecycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance, repair and operation phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.

RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2023 reported revenue of £2,982 million.