Queen Madosini Ndamase elected as the inaugural President of the South African Queens Council
By Stella Sigcau

31 March 2025

Queen Madosini Ndamase was unanimously elected as the first President of the newly established South African Queens Forum at the inaugural meeting that took place on 27-28 March 2025 in Pretoria. She is deputised by Queen Neo Mopeli and elected as Secretary General is Queen Nolutho Matanzima.

In accepting this position Queen Ndamase who is a philanthropist having founded the Queen Mados Ndamase Foundation that focuses on rural, women, youth and cultural development, articulated that the appointment was a responsibility which they pledged to undertake with commitment and diligence as they represented all other women in Traditional leadership as well ordinary rural women on the ground.

She narrated that the appointment  represented a recognition of Women in Traditional Leadership and that the Forum was committed in working hand in hand with the Monarch’s Forum constituted of their husbands the Kings and the State at large to ensure recognition and inclusivity of women in Traditional leadership.

Various stakeholders congratulated Queen Ndamase pledging their support and commitment to working with the Forum, including Princess Nonkululeko Mahlangu, the newly elected Chairperson of the South African Royal Princesses Network.

The two day meeting was hosted by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa.

Minister Hlabisa explained that the Forum was a landmark initiative designed to enhance the role of Queens in promoting social cohesion, leading special projects, and driving socio-economic development within traditional communities. 

The Forum was first announced by Minister Hlabisa on 27 October 2024 during a government and traditional leadership meeting in Pretoria, and provides a platform for Queens to support Their Majesties the Kings in their customary duties and serve as trusted advisors on key matters impacting their communities. 

This initiative by Minister Hlabisa recognizes the Queens’ roles and leadership in advancing the well-being and development of traditional communities.

White paper highlights historic human rights progress in Xizang

* A white paper, titled "Human Rights in Xizang in the New Era," was released by the State Council Information Office at a press conference held in Lhasa, capital city of the region.
* The white paper expounded in details on remarkable human rights progress in Xizang in various fields. Xizang enjoys political stability, ethnic unity, economic development, social harmony, and amity among different religions, the document said.

LHASA, 31 March 2025 (Xinhua) -- All-round and historic progress has been made in the human rights cause in China's Xizang Autonomous Region, according to a white paper released on Friday.

The document, titled "Human Rights in Xizang in the New Era," was released by the State Council Information Office at a press conference held in Lhasa, capital city of the region.

The Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese government have implemented effective measures to develop the economy, improve living standards and people's well-being, promote ethnic unity and progress, and protect the basic rights of all the people in the region, it said.

The year 2025 marks the 60th founding anniversary of Xizang Autonomous Region. Reflecting on the development of human rights in the region over the past six decades, especially since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, Gama Cedain, chairman of the regional government, said on Friday that the Party's leadership has provided a fundamental guarantee for lasting stability and high-quality development in the region.

He noted at the press conference that people of all ethnic groups in Xizang have made historic achievements in their rights to subsistence and development.

The white paper expounded in details on remarkable human rights progress in Xizang in fields such as whole-process people's democracy, the protection of economic and social rights, cultural rights and environmental rights, effective safeguards for the freedom of religious belief, equal protection of the rights of specific groups, and steady improvement in the legal protection of human rights.

The document showed that by the end of 2019, all 628,000 registered impoverished people in the region had been lifted out of poverty, and in 2024, the per capita net income of those lifted out of poverty in Xizang increased by over 12.5 percent.

The region's road length had nearly doubled in 12 years and every town or township is covered by the 5G wireless network, with 2.14 million 5G mobile phone users, or 60.5 percent of the total in the region. The average life expectancy in Xizang rose from 68.17 years in 2010 to 72.19 years in 2020, according to the document.

 

Respecting and protecting human rights has been made an important part of the Party Central Committee's guidelines for the governance of the region, it said.

The CPC has maintained a people-centered approach to human rights and a commitment to ensuring human rights through development, and has vigorously promoted whole-process people's democracy, it said.

The Party has strengthened legal protection of human rights, and coordinated efforts to increase people's civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights, to achieve well-rounded development and common prosperity for all people from all ethnic groups, according to the white paper.

Today, Xizang enjoys political stability, ethnic unity, economic development, social harmony, and amity among different religions, the document said.

Its environment is sound, and local people are content with their work and daily lives. This progress represents a remarkable achievement in protecting human rights on the snowy plateau, it said.

Villagers pick tea leaves in a valley in Cona of Shannan City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, July 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Tenzing Nima Qadhup)

The white paper pointed out that over the years, lies about the "worsening human rights situation" in Xizang were spread outside China with ulterior political motives and the goal to destabilize Xizang and separate it from China.

The human rights progress in Xizang will not be undermined or wiped out by lies, nor will the advancements being made in the new era by the people of all ethnic groups in the region be halted by deceit, it said.

VNA

Earthquake triggers emergency in Thailand, sparks widespread tremors in regional countries

A 30-story building under construction in Bangkok collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers.

Bangkok (VNA) 28 March 2025 - Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared a state of emergency in Bangkok on March 28 afternoon following a powerful earthquake in Myanmar, which caused strong tremors across several countries in the region.

A 30-story building under construction in Bangkok collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers. Panic spread as residents of high-rise buildings evacuated. Several metro and skytrain lines were temporarily suspended due to the quake’s impact. Strong tremors were also felt in Chiang Mai. In response, Prime Minister Shinawatra canceled a planned trip to Phuket to hold an emergency meeting.

In China’s Yunnan province, which borders Myanmar, significant tremors were recorded. The Xinhua News Agency reported that residents in Kunming, the provincial capital of Yunnan, felt strong shaking, prompting many to flee their homes. No immediate reports of casualties or damage have emerged from Yunnan.

The China Earthquake Networks Centre (CENC) recorded the earthquake at magnitude 7.9, affecting Myanmar, China, and Thailand. The US Geological Survey (USGS) previously reported a 7.7-magnitude quake centered northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock.

In Vietnam, there have been no reports of direct impacts. However, residents in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other localities, especially in high-rise apartments, reported feeling mild tremors.

Experts warned that Myanmar’s rapid urbanisation, weak infrastructure, and uncoordinated urban planning make its densely populated cities increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters.

The country’s healthcare system, particularly in rural areas, is already overstretched, adding to the challenges in disaster response.

An earthquake that struck both Myanmar and Thailand on March 28 had a magnitude of 7.7, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported.

Accordingly, the earthquake occurred at 12:50 pm Myanmar time with the epicentre located 16 km northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 km.

Earlier, the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) reported the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.9 in Myanmar and 7.3 in Bangkok, Thailand. The epicenter was located at a depth of 10 km, initially recorded at 21.9 decree north latitude and 95.65 degree east longitude.

The alarm systems in buildings were triggered, causing hundreds of residents to evacuate from high-rise buildings and hotels in central Bangkok.

Additionally, some metro and railway lines in Bangkok were temporarily suspended due to the tremors. Witnesses reported water sloshing out of swimming pools in several areas.

So far, there are no reports of damage or casualties

VNA

SA, DRC strengthen ties amid security concerns

27 March 2025

South African International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has met with his counterpart from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Thérèse Kayiwamba Wagner, to enhance bilateral cooperation and address ongoing security challenges.

During the political consultations, Lamola expressed his condolences due to the turmoil affecting the Congolese people, particularly vulnerable groups such as women and children. 

“The security situation in the eastern Democratic of the Congo is fragile and is cause for concern. Many people have lost their lives and, millions, especially women and children, have been displaced,” he said. 

He noted that the United Nations Security Council had convened multiple emergency sessions to address the crisis.

“The United Nations Security Council convened no less than three emergency sessions to review developments in the eastern DRC. Similarly, our regional and continental organisations have also met and called for a ceasefire, an end to hostilities, facilitation of humanitarian assistance, and a return to the peace talks.

“The people of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo are yearning for peace and normalcy. We dare not fail them.” 

South Africa has pledged its unwavering support for peace efforts in the region as it backs ongoing mediation initiatives aimed at achieving a long-term resolution to the conflict. 

Lamola highlighted the appointment of former President Kgalema Motlanthe to the mediation team, stressing his extensive political experience as an asset in the quest for peace.

“We have no doubt that with his vast political experience, former President Motlanthe will be an asset to the team,” he added. 

Lamola and Wagner, the DRC Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Francophonie, reviewed the state of bilateral relations during their meeting and reflected on the commitments made during the recent Bi-National Commission (BNC) session.

“We should examine progress in our joint efforts of promoting trade and investment between our countries, an area which is critical to the growth of our respective economies and the improvement of the lives and livelihoods of our people.”

As South African companies show increased interest in investing in the DRC, Lamola encouraged both nations to create the necessary conditions for these investments and announced that the country’s development finance institutions are also willing to extend and expand their coverage.

“Working together I am confident that we will create the necessary conditions for these investments to be realised,” he added.

The two countries plan to convene a comprehensive review of BNC outcomes in the coming months, setting the stage for the next session later this year.

Lamola said Wagner’s visit was a testament to the commitment of both nations to foster a stronger partnership. 

“Senior officials should be directed to put their shoulders to the wheel to follow through all the tasks that have been agreed to but remain outstanding.” 

Lamola and Wagner were joined by their respective Ministers of Defence. 

SAnews.gov.za

The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, A Defining Moment in Global History and Its Relevance Today

By Kirtan Bhana and Anisha Pemjee

26 March 2025

The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, fought between 1987 and 1988 in southern Angola, was a turning point in African and world history. This momentous event not only shifted the balance of power in Southern Africa but also contributed to the end of apartheid, the independence of Namibia, and broader geopolitical transformations. The annual commemoration of this historic battle serves as a reminder of the seismic shifts in global politics and offers an opportunity to correct misinformed narratives that still shape contemporary discourse.

On March 23rd, a gathering at Freedom Park in Pretoria paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the battle. The event highlighted the significance of Cuito Cuanavale in shaping the ideals of freedom and self-determination. One of the key developments announced during the commemoration was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the South African Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie and the Angolan Minister of Culture and Tourism, Felipe Silva de Pina Zau. This agreement includes plans to produce a film that will memorialize the battle, honour fallen heroes, and articulate the far-reaching consequences of the conflict.

Cuba played an instrumental role in the victory at Cuito Cuanavale, providing critical military and strategic support. Cuba’s Ambassador to South Africa, Esther Armenteros, recalled that during her first posting to South Africa 15 years ago, one of her responsibilities was to ensure that the names of the 2,289 Cuban soldiers who died at Cuito Cuanavale were correctly inscribed on the Wall of Names. She stressed the importance of ensuring that relatives visiting the Wall could identify their loved ones and pay their respects properly.

Equally pivotal was the role of the Soviet Union in this battle, providing vital support to the Angolan and Cuban forces. Russia’s Ambassador to South Africa, Roman Ambarov, spoke of the USSR’s unwavering commitment to the struggle against apartheid, stating, "The Soviet Union’s involvement went beyond mere politics or military strategy. It was based on the belief that all nations have the right to self-determination, and that apartheid South Africa, as well as foreign interference in Angola, had to end. The struggle for independence in Angola was part of a broader global fight for justice and equality, and the Soviet Union stood firmly on the side of the oppressed, on the right side of history."

Moscow’s support and solidarity played a decisive role in defeating the apartheid military and set off a chain reaction that led to negotiations for a democratic South Africa. The battle’s impact extended beyond Africa; the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the subsequent dissolution of the Soviet Union signalled the end of the Cold War, altering the global geopolitical landscape forever. 

The aftermath of Cuito Cuanavale was felt almost immediately. On March 21, 1990, Namibia officially gained independence, marking another victory against colonialism. Namibia’s Deputy Head of Mission, Aino Humphrey, reflected on the implementation of UN Resolution 435, which ended South Africa’s occupation of Namibia, then known as South West Africa. Namibia recently elected its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and Vice President Lucia Witbooi. Humphrey called for unity among African nations to drive development and prosperity, invoking the spirit of Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president.

Angolan Minister Felipe Silva de Pina Zau, during his official visit, reaffirmed the importance of strengthening cultural and artistic ties between Angola and South Africa. This visit followed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Working Visit to Angola and Angolan President João Lourenço's recent State Visit to South Africa, reinforcing the growing partnership and historical bonds between the two nations. The minister emphasized that the solidarity of the Frontline States, with the support of Cuba and the Soviet Union, led to the defeat of an enemy that had long seemed invincible. 

At the commemoration, Minister Gayton McKenzie, representing his party in South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU), addressed the recent controversial allegations of genocide in South Africa. He categorically dismissed these claims as baseless and urged South Africans to reject and counter with facts such misleading narratives. 

His speech took on an impassioned tone as he reflected on the onerous and often costly visa processes forced on African travellers, as well as long waiting queues to enter other countries, while nationals from those developed nations enjoy visa-free access to much of Africa. McKenzie called for African leaders to break free from these outdated and subservient policies, advocating for a radical transformation of global relations to unlock this rich continent’s true potential.

The commemoration of Cuito Cuanavale also acknowledged the enduring contributions of the Soviet Union, often referred to as "Mother Russia," for its unwavering support of Africa’s liberation struggles. The leadership and vision of figures such as Fidel Castro, Agostinho Neto, Nelson Mandela, and Sam Nujoma, along with the bravery of countless foot soldiers, laid the foundation for Africa to reclaim its sovereignty and shape its own future.

Freedom Park and the Voortrekker Monument lie adjacent to each other which is a hallmark of the reconciliatory vision of Mandela and his generation of leaders. The Voortrekker Monument also memorialises fallen soldiers of the former SA defence force. The monuments stand as a testament to the progress that South African society has made. The indiscriminate killing of indigenous people like the Khoisan, and the remembrance of the British concentration camps that Afrikaners had to endure during the Anglo-Boer War, are a reflection of the history of South Africa and the bold and courageous steps taken to unify a nation.

Today, as the world navigates new geopolitical challenges, the legacy of Cuito Cuanavale remains more relevant than ever. The battle was not just a military engagement; it was a defining moment that reshaped international alliances and inspired movements for justice and equality across the globe. As nations reconsider their positions in a rapidly evolving global order, the lessons of Cuito Cuanavale serve as a reminder of the strength of unity, the necessity of resilience, and the enduring impact of standing against oppression.

George rallies world leaders to accelerate efforts to achieve SDGs

26 March 2025

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called on the international community to urgently accelerate efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “We are less than five years away from our deadline to achieving the SDGs and the end of this critical decade for climate action. Yet, we are still far from our goals and action targets,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

The United Nations describes the SDGs as the “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all” by addressing global challenges related to poverty, inequality and climate change, among others, with the year 2030 set as the target to meet the goals.

Addressing the Group of Twenty (G20) Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) virtually, the Minister said poverty levels are worsening, and that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions reached record highs last year. 

“This calls for an urgent acceleration of our efforts. Our commitment to achieve these goals must not waver. That is why South Africa has placed solidarity, equality and sustainability at the centre of our G20 Presidency.

“As the international community, together, we committed ourselves to the ambitious agenda to end poverty and hunger, to protect our planet, to achieve universal education and health coverage, and to promote decent work and sustainable economic growth by adopting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals,” George said.

The Minister said South Africa is striving to champion and fast-track action in the pursuit of a just transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient and inclusive society, and lead by example. 

Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa proclaimed the Climate Change Act, laying the ground for ambitious climate action domestically. 

Earlier this month, the Minister informed the public that the President proclaimed the Climate Change Act, 2024, with the proclamation notice published in the Government Gazette on 17 March 2025, which was the commencement date of the Act.

“The Act is intended to enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development; and to provide for matters connected therewith,” the Minister said at the time.

The Act lays the foundation for a green economy that is resilient, inclusive and future-focused. It creates a clear framework for climate action.

In his address on Tuesday, the Minister said South Africa’s rollout of renewable energy has materially accelerated over the past few years, driving the decarbonisation of South Africa’s energy system, while the implementation of Expanded Producer Responsibility schemes and circular economy initiatives is improving waste management.

“The task remains immense. Poverty, unemployment, hunger, inequality, environmental degradation and climate change are but a few of the complex and interconnected issues facing the world today. 

“...We thus reiterate the critical role of multilateralism in addressing these complexities, and South Africa’s very strong support for multilateralism,” the Minister explained.

Priorities 

George said the five interrelated priorities of the Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group provide an opportunity to address multiple complexities within this context, while advancing the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The priorities include Biodiversity and Conservation, Land Degradation, Desertification and Drought, Chemicals and Waste Management, Climate Change and Air Quality, as well as Oceans and Coasts.

“These priorities of the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group for this year are viewed as critical enablers to address poverty, create employment and meet other sustainable development goals, thereby contributing towards the global effort to respond to the triple complexities of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss, in line with the overall theme of South Africa’s G20 Presidency of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability,” the Minister said.

As a primary outcome of the G20 Presidency this year, South Africa will explore ways that the G20 can leverage opportunities to increase the scale and flows of climate finance, critical to enabling the Just Transition, mitigation and adaptation efforts, while ensuring that the required investments reach the most vulnerable of society. 

“It is paramount for developing economy countries to be actively supported in their efforts to achieve ‘whole of society and whole of economy’ just transitions to sustainable development on the ground, through scaled access to low-cost finance, technology and skills.

“It is also increasingly recognised that many people across the globe are exposed to unhealthy and often deadly levels of air pollution, and that the impacts of air pollution extend beyond health - affecting climate, biodiversity, ecosystems and economic development. 

“This is also a key issue that needs to be addressed, and to which this Working Group can contribute. There are very extensive synergies between decarbonisation and the improvement of air quality,” the Minister said.

SAnews.gov.za

People's Daily

Making AI inclusive engine for global development

By Huan Xiang

25 March 2025

Over the past months, China's AI model DeepSeek has gained global attention, reigniting discussions on inclusive AI development and improving access to AI services. As the wave of AI accelerates, bridging the global AI divide demands governance solutions, collaborative responses to challenges, and inclusive progress.

Every technological revolution brings both guiding stars and hidden reefs. "In our days, everything seems pregnant with its contrary," noted Karl Marx during the Industrial Revolution. "The newfangled sources of wealth, by some strange weird spell, are turned into sources of want."

The "paradox of wealth" takes on a new form in the era of AI. Today, the global AI divide manifests in R&D investment, hardware resources, talent pools, and application capabilities. 

In a joint report, the International Labour Organization and a UN office on technology revealed that over $300 billion is spent annually on technology to enhance computing capacity, but these investments are seen mainly in higher-income nations. It creates a disparity in access to infrastructure and skills development that puts developing countries and their homegrown start-ups at a "severe disadvantage." 

Africa, for instance, holds less than 1 percent of global data center capacity. The International Monetary Fund's AI Preparedness Index quantifies this gap: in 2023, developed nations scored 0.68, while emerging markets and low-income countries scored 0.46 and 0.32, respectively. 

International observers warn that the AI divide risks creating extreme polarization, where a few nations reap technological gains while developing countries are left to supply raw data.

Policies made by certain nations are exacerbating this divide. Some advanced economies seek to monopolize AI advantages, build exclusive blocs, erect tech barriers, and sabotage global AI supply chains. Imposing hierarchies and bloc confrontation in AI development entrenches technological stratification, stripping developing nations of their rights to progress. 

As Felix Dapare Dakora, former president of the African Academy of Sciences, pointed out, these measures only undermine international cooperation, shifting AI development from collaboration toward decoupling.

The widening divide is a reminder that while technology empowers growth, it does not inherently ensure equitable distribution and inclusive development. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres once warned that the world "must never allow AI to stand for 'advancing inequality'." 
To harness AI for good, humanity needs not just smarter algorithms but broader wisdom and vision. Bridging the divide requires global solidarity, ensuring no nation is left behind, and making AI a truly inclusive engine of global development.

Countries should focus on capacity building, and promote open sharing of AI technology, talent, and infrastructure. 

The power of technology lies not just in upgrading tools but in igniting endogenous momentum. All relevant parties should actively engage in North-South, South-South, and trilateral cooperation to help developing countries strengthen AI and digital infrastructure connectivity, enhance AI literacy, and cultivate talent, thereby building an ecosystem for AI development. 

A greater digital inclusion can be achieved by further universality of networks, computing power, and data, providing low-threshold, low-cost AI services to small and medium-sized enterprises and the general public.

As noted by Doreen Bogdan-Martin, secretary-general of the International Telecommunication Union, global coordination should be secured "in building safe and inclusive AI accessible to all."

The international community should uphold equity and inclusiveness, and guarantee equal rights to AI development and utilization. 

At the AI Action Summit held in Paris, countries, regions and international organizations, including France, China, India, and the EU, endorsed the Statement on Inclusive and Sustainable Artificial Intelligence for People and the Planet, which aims to help the Global South strengthen AI capacity building.

AI polarization is a common concern for all parties. The international community must reject walls, decoupling, and discrimination, co-creating an open, inclusive, beneficial and non-discriminatory AI ecosystem where all nations enjoy equal rights and opportunities, and follow equal rules.

Countries should follow a people-centered approach, and build AI ethical governance frameworks. 

Data security, algorithmic discrimination, privacy protection, and intellectual property rights are related to the security and ethical issues of AI development, which demand global risk assessment and early warning systems. 

While ethical principles are widely debated, binding laws, treaties, and governance remain nascent. Respecting national differences, the world must forge a consensus to align AI with global social responsibility.

As a responsible AI power, China actively bridges the divide. It has proposed the Global AI Governance Initiative and the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All. It has promoted the adoption by consensus of a resolution on strengthening international cooperation in AI capacity-building at the 78th United Nations General Assembly, and taken the lead in advocating for helping the Global South benefit equally in AI development.

China and Zambia co-hosted the meeting of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-building at the UN Headquarters in New York. It launched the China-Laos AI Innovation Cooperation Center, and partnered with Cambodia to help farmers with AI-driven precision planting. 

These tangible actions help more developing countries become stakeholders, not bystanders, in the AI revolution. All nations may cooperate to safeguard security and advance growth.

The ultimate measure of technological progress lies in its impact on human society. As AI, an important force driving a new round of technological revolution and industrial reform, is reshaping the world, nations must unite together, using algorithms to solve shared challenges, and ensuring the intelligent revolution illuminates their shared future.

Huan Xiang is commenter on international affairs for People's Daily

Vietnam suggests ways to strengthen role of media in Southern Hemisphere

Standing Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Journalists’ Association Nguyen Duc Loi, who led the Vietnamese delegation, highlighted that with media mergers, substantial financial support, and advanced technologies, Western media has established their near-total dominance in the global journalism.

Standing Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Journalists’ Association Nguyen Duc Loi (centre) at the the International Colloquium Patria in Havana. (Photo: VNA)

Havana (VNA) 24 March 2025  – Vietnam presented measures to enhance the voice of the media in Southern Hemisphere countries at the 4th International Colloquium Patria in Havana from March 17-19.

Standing Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Journalists’ Association Nguyen Duc Loi, who led the Vietnamese delegation, highlighted that with media mergers, substantial financial support, and advanced technologies, Western media has established their near-total dominance in the global journalism.

Urging Southern Hemisphere countries to develop comprehensive strategies to improve their media presence and voice on the information front, Loi suggested they should focus on raising public awareness about multi-dimensional information, creating diverse content that reflects reality, diversifying media channels, developing capabilities of journalists, reporters, and content creators, as well as building stronger networks for connection and cooperation.

During their stay in Cuba, the delegation had meetings with member of the Cuban Communist Party Central Committee member and Deputy Head of the committee’s Ideology Department Maryde Fernández López, and President of the Association of Cuban Journalists Ricardo Ronquillo Bello. Both sides discussed measures to promote information cooperation between media organisations, helping bolster the Vietnam – Cuba special solidarity, traditional friendship, and comprehensive cooperation.

The delegation is set to meet with President of the Venezuelan broadcaster Telesur Patricia Villegas Marín, visit the Vietnamese Embassy in Cuba, and lay a wreath at the statue of President Ho Chi Minh statue in Havana.

The 4th International Colloquium Patria brought together over 400 guests from 47 countries to discuss challenges in digital communication and AI from the perspective of the Southern Hemisphere nations.

VNA

Ngomane nation celebrates its heritage

by HRH Stella Sigcau
24 March 2025

The Ngomane nation in Mpumalanga celebrated their annual  Ummemo cultural celebration on 15 March 2025 at Ngomane Palace in Nkomazi, Mpumalanga. In attendance were people from various walks of life and dignitaries including government representatives and Traditional Leaders.

The colourful event was also graced by representatives of the Institution of Traditional Leaders including Kgosi Mokoena the current President of CONTRALESA, Nkosi Jongilanga Sigcau, Chairperson of the Alfred Nzo Local House of Traditional Leaders of South Africa, Nkosi Nkomo Mahumani of amaTsonga kaNkomo. There were also representatives from the ESwatini Kingdom.

According to history the Ngomane people, also known as the BakaNgomane, are a Bantu-speaking ethnic group primarily residing predominantly in South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique, Malawi and Zambia.

The name "Ngomane" in the  Ngomane language, as reported, means “ruler of the land" and is associated with symbols like the Marula tree. Historians have identified the "Great Ngomane" commonly known as the Great General and Prime Minister of King Shaka Zulu" who established the Zulu Nation as one of the great and iconic historical figures.

The Ngomane nation is said to trace its origins to the late 18th century, towards the rise of the Zulu Kingdom under King Shaka Zulu. Ngomane is said to have played a role in King Shaka of the Zulu Kingdom’s upbringing. According to oral traditions as reported, Ngomane was entrusted by the "Mthethwas" with the care of Shaka during his early years, a responsibility that highlights the trust and respect the Zulu royal family had for the Ngomane lineage.

In the pre & post-apartheid era, the Ngomane Royal family continued to play a significant role in building the nation through, amongst others, preserving their cultural heritage.

The Ngomane nation’s legacy is also preserved through the work of historians, anthropologists, and community leaders who have documented their contributions to the history of the Zulu and Gaza Kingdoms. Their story, according to Nkosi Hhoyi II Ngomane is an integral part of the broader narrative of Southern Africa's past and present. However, the expansion of European colonial powers led to significant disruptions for the indigenous communities. 

Today, the Ngomane nation is a vibrant and diverse community whose members spread across South Africa and beyond. They continue to honor their heritage through cultural practices, oral histories, sharing their culture with other nations and community initiatives. According to the nation’s head, Nkosi Hhoyi II Ngomane, the nation’s history serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of colonialism and apartheid, as well as the resilience of African communities in the face of adversity.

Historically, prior to the arrival of the colonial powers, the Ngomane people had settled along the Crocodile River and were the original residents of the areas later known as Lodwichs Lust. However, they faced displacement due to colonialism. As reported in 1875, their land was taken over for colonial purposes, leading to their relocation.  It is also reported that further displacements occurred in the early 1900s with the establishment of the Kruger National Park, forcing the Ngomane people to move from their ancestral territories.

Prior to the park's formation, the Ngomane people, as narrated, along with the Sambo people, resided near the Sabie River in the area now known as Skukuza. In 1905, as reported, the Transvaal Government relocated them to Tenbosch, south of the park. History tells, this displacement was further compounded when they were moved again from Tenbosch to the Lebombo flats. These successive relocations disrupted their traditional way of life, severing deep-rooted connections to their ancestral lands and leading to significant cultural and social upheaval.

The Ummemo  Cultural Festival has garnered attention for its role in cultural preservation and community building. 

The Ngomane Royal Family and the Hhoyi Traditional Council under Nkosi Hhoyi II Ngomane have showcased their traditions in Nkomazi, near the Eswatini & Mozambique borders, highlighting the festival's significance in uniting the Ngomane people and promoting their rich cultural legacy.

The Ngomane's rich cultural heritage is, among others but not limited to, traditional ceremonies. which are playing a pivotal role in the life of their community. Ummemo is one of those ceremonies celebrated annually by the BakaNgomane of Hhoyi, Mjokwane and Lugedlane. The Ummemo also serves multiple purposes, namely: it is a "harvest thanksgiving" event where the community expresses gratitude for the agricultural yield, and it also functions as a cultural celebration that reinforces identity, unity, and pride amongst community members. This festival allows the younger generation to learn about their traditions and customs from elders, ensuring the preservation and transmission of cultural activities.

Ngomane people are also found in Malawi under the leadership of King Willard Mswati Gomani V of Nguni Maseko. They also celebrate Ngomane culture through hosting an annual Umhlangano in the first week of September. Gomani V is a descendant of the Ngomane dynasty that traveled with Zwangendaba after Mfecane. They settled in Malawi. They, as reported, conquered the local tribes to create the Nguni Maseko Kingdom, which exists to this day.

The Ummemo Cultural Festival thus plays a crucial role in addressing socio economic challenges caused by colonialism through, amongst others, uniting the Ngomane people and other affected communities, celebrating their heritage, and advocating for their rights. This stands as a testament to the resilience of these communities and their determination to preserve their culture and history despite the injustices they have faced.

2025 Global South Financiers Forum being held in Beijing

The main forum of the 2025 Global South Financiers Forum took place in Beijing on Thursday, with the theme of "Illuminating Global South."

Xinhua