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  • Merck Foundation – 84 winners of their 2022 Media Awards announced from 21 African Countries

    Merck Foundation – 84 winners of their 2022 Media Awards announced from 21 African Countries

     

    Merck Foundation CEO announced call for application of 2033 Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards in partnership with African First Ladies – apply now at submit@merck-foundation.com

    HARARE, Zimbabwe, March 27, 2023/ — Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, in partnership with the African First Ladies, announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition “More Than a Mother” Awards 2022 and “Diabetes and Hypertension” Awards 2022. The awards ceremony was held via Videoconference to felicitate all the media award winners.

    The winners were announced and acknowledged by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” campaign. The theme of “More Than a Mother” Awards was to raise awareness on any of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/or Stopping GBV at all levels and the theme of “Diabetes and Hypertension” Awards was to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension in the African countries.

    Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “I am very excited to announce the winners together with my dear sisters First Ladies of Africa. I am very happy with the quality and quantity of entries received this year. It is improving year after year since we started our Media awards in 2017.”

    “Congratulations to all winners. This year, we have 84 winners from 21 African countries. You are all the Champions of social and health issues in your communities. This was my dream and vision since I started my advocacy journey in 2012, that we involve and engage everyone in a way that they can make a difference through their day-to-day work and create a cultural shift.”

    “I am pleased to celebrate and welcome you to be members of Merck Foundation Alumni and work closely with us to be the voice of the voiceless and raise awareness on social and health issues by featuring impactful and inspiring stories.”

    The Merck Foundation CEO also announced CEO Special awards in order to recognize the journalists who have been contributing regularly through their work to raise awareness about the above issues in Africa.

    Merck Foundation is additionally rewarding the winners by providing them with one year access to an online educational training program called ‘MasterClass’. The MasterClass is an immersive online experience and self-paced learning course that can be accessed anywhere with the internet.

    Senator Rasha Kelej further added, “I would also like to announce the Call for Applications for the Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards 2023 “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension”. These awards are in partnership with my dear sisters, the African First Ladies who are also the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”.

    Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards 2022

    Here are the winners from West African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of The Gambia, H.E. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW; The First Lady of Ghana, H.E. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO; The First Lady of Liberia, H.E. CLAR MARIE WEAH; and The First Lady of Nigeria, H.E. Dr. AISHA MUHAMMADU BUHARI:

    Print Category Winner

    • Agnes Opoku Sarpong, New Times Corporation, Ghana (First Position)

    Online Category Winners

    • Georgina Appiah, Citinewsroom.com, Ghana (First Position)
    • Ijeoma Francisca Ukazu, The Daily Newswave, Nigeria (Second Position)
    • Tealee A. Brown, www.wattpad.com, Liberia (Second Position)
    • Raissa Sambou, Ghanaian Times, Ghana (Third Position)
    • Emelia Naa Ayeley Aryee, Freelance Journalist, Ghana (Third Position)
    • Essa Bah, Progress, The Gambia (Third Position)

    Radio Category Winner

    • Mavis Offei Acheampong, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Ghana (First Position)

    Multimedia Category Winners

    • Ohemeng Tawiah, JoyNews TV, Ghana (First Position)
    • Ezedimbu Karen Ogom, Africa Independent TV, Nigeria (Second Position)
    • Emmanuel Bright Quaicoe & Anita Serwaa Adzoga, Multimedia Group, Ghana (Third Position)
    • Sarah Apenkroh, TV3, Ghana (Third Position)

    Here are the Winners from Southern African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Botswana,  H.E. NEO JANE MASISI; The First Lady of Namibia, H.E. MONICA GEINGOS; The First Lady of Malawi, H.E. MONICA CHAKWERA; The First Lady of Zimbabwe, H.E. Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA:

    Print Category Winners

    • Paheja Siririka, New Era Publication Corporation, Namibia (First Position)
    • Gresham Ngwira, Nation Publications, Malawi (Second Position)
    • Mpho Annie-Marie, Sunday Standard, Botswana (Third Position)

    Online Category Winners

    • Shireen Van Wyk, Bakwa Magazine, Namibia (First Position)
    • Jessie Ngoma Simengwa, Times of Zambia, Zambia (Second Position)
    • Shingirirai Mutonho, The Patriot Newspaper, Zimbabwe (Second Position)
    • Adelaide Kuudzerema, Student of Harare Polytechnic school of Journalism, Zimbabwe (Second Position)
    • Michael Gwarisa, Health Times, Zimbabwe (Third Position)
    • Phillipa Chinhoi, Sunday Mail, Zimbabwe (Third Position)
    • John Manzongo, The Herald Newspaper, Zimbabwe (Third Position)
    • Muchaneta Chimuka, Zimpapers Online, Zimbabwe (Third Position)

    Radio Category Winners

    • Glendah Fadzai Takachicha, Capitalk Zimpapers Radio, Zimbabwe (First Position)
    • Muuba Gabriel Josias, Radio Musi-O-Tunya, Zambia (Second Position)
    • Eva Hatontola Chanda, Radio Christian Voice, Zambia (Second Position)
    • Chimwemwe Manda, Transworld Radio, Malawi (Third Position)
    • Lucy Nambela, Capital FM, Zambia (Third Position)

    Multimedia Category Winners

    • Henry Ngosa, Prime Television Zambia, Zambia (First Position)
    • Mushota Mpundu, Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC), Zambia (Second Position)

    Here are the winners from East African Countries:

    Print Category Winners

    • Marco Maduhu, Nipashe Newspaper, Tanzania (First Position)
    • Ronald Musoke, The Independent Magazine, Uganda (Second Position)
    • Beldeen Waliaula, Standard Media group, Kenya (Third Position)

    Online Category Winners

    • Elizabeth Angira, The Sun Weekly Online, Kenya (First Position)
    • Lydia Atieno Barasa, The New Times, Rwanda (Second Position)

    Radio Category Winners

    • Michael Chilonwa, BBC Media Action, Tanzania (First Position)
    • Benjamin Jumbe, KFM Radio, Uganda (Second Position)
    • Vivian Pyuza, CGFM Radio Tabora, Tanzania (Third Position)

    Multimedia Category Winner

    • Geoffrey Michael Machemba, East Africa TV, Tanzania (First Position)

    Here are the winners from French Speaking African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Burundi, H.E. ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE; The First Lady of Central African Republic, H.E. BRIGITTE TOUADERA; The First Lady of Democratic Republic of the Congo, H.E. DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI; and The First Lady of Niger, H.E. KHADIJA BAZOUM:

    Print Category Winner

    • Emelyne IRADUKUNDA, Le Renouveau du Burundi, Burundi (First Position)

    Online Category Winners

    • Koami Agbetiafa, Nigerinter.com, Niger (First Position)
    • Donat Muemba, Jua Magazine, DRC (Second Position)
    • Alphonse Julio GADA, Global News, Benin (Second Position)
    • Brah Souleymane, Journal la Voix du Peuple, Niger (Third Position)
    • Anonwodji Yao AUGUSTIN, Togofinancebusiness.info, Togo (Third Position)
    • BAZIZANE Mariam, Teach the World, Burundi (Third Position)

    Radio Category Winners

    • Salissou Kaka, Saraounia FM, Niger (First Position)
    • Kabuya Tshilumba Matthias, Radio Television Debout Kasaï, DRC (Second Position)
    • Jeanine Nyabenda, Ijisho Web Site News TV, Burundi (Third Position)
    • Maurice Tuninahazimana, Radio Buntu, Burundi (Third Position)
    • Remy Rukundo, Radio Buntu, Burundi (Third Position)
    • Schella Claudicia YEMENGALI, Radio Centrafrique (RCF), CAR (Third Position)

    Multimedia Category Winners

    • Ferdinand Sengi, Lejournal.africa, Burundi (First Position)
    • Jean Nepomuscene Irambona, Buntu TV, Burundi (Second Position)

    Here are the winners of MERCK FOUNDATION CEO SPECIAL AWARD:

    • Walter Mwesigye, NTV, Uganda
    • Mercy Tyra Murengu, MediaMax Limited-Milele FM, Kenya

    Merck Foundation “Diabetes & Hypertension” Media Recognition Awards 2022

    Here are the winners from West African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Ghana, H.E. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO and The First Lady of Nigeria, H.E. Dr. AISHA MUHAMMADU BUHARI:

    Print Category Winner

    • Abigail Nana Efua Arthur, Ghanaian Times, Ghana (First Position)

    Online Category Winners

    • Patience Ivie Ihejirika, Leadership Newspaper, Nigeria (First Position)
    • Ernest Senanu Dovlo, Metro Television Online, Ghana (Second Position)
    • Vida Essel, GhanaPlus.com, Ghana (Third Position)
    • Muniratu Akweley Issah, Ghana News Agency, Ghana (Third Position)
    • Zadok Kwame Gyesi, Daily Graphic Online, Ghana (Third Position)

    Multimedia Category Winner

    • Sarah Teiki Ofori, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Ghana (First Position)

    Here are the Winners from Southern African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Malawi, H.E. MONICA CHAKWERA; The First Lady of Namibia, H.E. MONICA GEINGOS; and The First Lady of Zimbabwe, H.E. Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA:

    Print Category Winner

    • Memory Kutengule Chatonda, Malawi News Agency, Malawi (First Position)

    Online Category Winners

    • Catherine Murombedzi nee Mwauyakufa, Freelancer – The Observer Zimbabwe, Health Times and CNS Health of India, Zimbabwe (First Position)
    • Elizabeth Sitotombe, The Patriot Newspaper, Zimbabwe (Second Position)
    • Matilda Chimwaza Majawa, Times website (www.times.mw), Malawi (Second Position)
    • Jeoffrey Mukubi, unWrap.online, Namibia (Third Position)

    Multimedia Category Winner

    • Rinelda Mouton, The Namibian, Namibia (First Position)

    Here are the winners from East African Countries:

    Print Category Winner

    • Christina Mwakangale, Tanzania Daima, Tanzania (First Position)

    Online Category Winners

    • Veronica Romwald Mrema, Matukionamaisha.blogspot.com, Tanzania (First Position)
    • Pauline Odhiambo, BBC, Kenya (Second Position)
    • Ines Umurerwa, The New Times Rwanda, Rwanda (Second Position)
    • Isabella Awor Olong, TND News, Uganda (Third Position)

    Radio Category Winners

    • Namale Hajara Shahista, CBS FM, Uganda (First Position)
    • Adam Gabriel Hhando, CG FM Radio Tabora, Tanzania (Second Position)
    • Mwanaisha Makumbuli, Highlands FM Radio, Tanzania (Third Position)

    Here are the winners from French Speaking African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Burundi, H.E. ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE; The First Lady of Democratic Republic of the Congo, H.E. DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI; and The First Lady of Niger, H.E. KHADIJA BAZOUM:

    Online Category Winners

    • Prisca Lokale Odia, Actualite.CD, DRC (First Position)
    • Hamidou Saley Mouhamed, Niger Times, Niger (Second Position)
    • Mêmèdé Ambroisine Azododassi, Savoir News, Togo (Third Position)

    Radio Category Winners

    • Boureima Ouedraogo, Radio la Voix du Paysan, Burkina Faso (First Position)
    • Cyriaque NDAYISHIMIYE, Radio Buntu, Burundi (Second Position)

    Here is the winner from Portuguese Speaking African Country in partnership with The First Lady of Mozambique, H.E. ISAURA FERRÃO NYUSI

    • Abdul Ibraimo, A Voz do lslam, Mozambique (First Position)

    Here is the winner of MERCK FOUNDATION CEO SPECIAL AWARD:

    • Cassien Tribunal Aungane, Diplomacy & Development, DRC

    Details of Merck Foundation Media Awards 2023:

    1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition “More Than a Mother” Awards 2023

    Theme for the awards: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/or Stopping GBV at all levels.

    Who can apply: Journalists from Print, Radio, Online, and Multimedia platforms from the following groups:

    1. Southern African Countries
    2. West African Countries
    3. East African Countries
    4. African French Speaking Countries
    5. African Portuguese Speaking Countries

    Submission deadline: 30th September 2023.

    Click here (https://apo-opa.info/3LTfHri) to view more details.

    2. Merck Foundation Media Recognition “Diabetes & Hypertension” Awards 2023

    Theme for the awards: Promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

    Who can apply: Journalists from Print, Radio, Online, and Multimedia platforms from the following groups:

    1. Southern African Countries
    2. West African Countries
    3. East African Countries
    4. African French Speaking Countries
    5. African Portuguese Speaking Countries

    Submission deadline: 30th October 2023.

    Click here (https://apo-opa.info/40yUJTn) to view more details.

    All entries are to be submitted to submit@merck-foundation.com.

    Kindly note, sending multiple relevant entries for both the categories will increase the chances of winning the award.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

    More images: https://apo-opa.info/3TO3Pss

    Media contact:
    Mehak Handa
    Community Awareness Program Manager
    +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
    mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

    Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
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    Website: Merck-Foundation.com
    Download the Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.info/3xeJMsI

    About Merck Foundation:
    The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3Ykd3hH), Twitter (https://apo-opa.info/3Yo3y11), Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3lsqM7q), YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3jMdG4G), and Flickr (https://apo-opa.info/3JT8BSC).

    SOURCE
    Merck Foundation
  • Sierra Leone Seeks Upstream Partners to Fast-Track Exploration, says Petroleum Directorate

    Sierra Leone Seeks Upstream Partners to Fast-Track Exploration, says Petroleum Directorate

    In an exclusive interview with the African Energy Chamber, Foday B. L. Mansaray, Director General of Sierra Leone’s Petroleum Directorate, spoke on the country’s exploration agenda to develop its hydrocarbon-rich, ultra-deep basins
    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, March 27, 2023/ — The African Energy Chamber (http://www.EnergyChamber.org) – the voice of the African energy sector – spoke with Foday B. L. Mansaray, Director General of the Petroleum Directorate of Sierra Leone, in an exclusive interview on the country’s latest oil and gas developments. These include a fifth licensing round launched last May, ongoing evaluation of its gas prospects, streamlined concession terms, and an upcoming wildcat and appraisal well to be drilled later this year.

    What is the current state of Sierra Leone’s oil and gas industry?

    We are still a nation in its infancy and we want to get to a stage where we can commercialize our oil and gas reserves. Over the past years, we have managed to streamline the process for application to conduct exploration works. So far, we have a Nigerian independent in our basin which – in its first evaluation conducted last year – has highlighted gas prospects. With the energy transition taking center stage, having gas in our energy mix will be crucial in driving energy security and sustainability.

    Last year, Sierra Leone launched its fifth licensing round to kickstart new exploration in the country. How has engagement with operators been to date?  

    The licensing round closes at the end of September and has been an excellent round so far, with very strong interest from majors, IOCs and independents that have already looked at our data and are conducting data and financial evaluation. We have 56 graticules and 63,000 ㎢ in area on offer. We also have hydrocarbon-rich, ultra-deep basins on offer through direct negotiations. We want technically-sound companies to partner with – those that can drill and have the capability to progress our exploration agenda. Our entire basin is covered with 3D and 2D data, hence there is a strong foundation for companies to advance and fast-track exploration.

    How does your latest licensing round differ from previous rounds and from others being launched across the continent?

    We are determined to make this round the most successful licensing round we have ever had. The conversation around energy transition is shifting slightly, with major companies approaching us to participate. We have reduced the red tape for companies to come in with very simple and straightforward terms. We have only three non-negotiable terms: a corporate income tax of 25%; a 10% royalty for oil and 5% royalty for gas; and a petroleum resources tax. The barriers to entry are very low. The period from application to ratification is 85 days, hence we have heavily improved our application period. We are also positioned within the Office of the Presidency and are very quick and nimble at making decisions.

    Sierra Leone’s basins are similar to Guyana’s where huge discoveries have been made, and we are positive that we will attract major IOCs and a few independents. Once we open our doors for them to enter, we expect more firms to flood into our sector. We are willing to learn from neighbors such as Namibia and Angola to enhance our sector growth.

    How is Sierra Leone prioritizing local content and skills development as its energy sector develops?

    Our local content laws are very strong and the area is a very important aspect regarding how we want to develop our industry. We have existing Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with Equatorial Guinea, The Gambia and Ghana. Last year, we sent 18 people for training in Ghana from different departments. We want to capacitate local content into our sector and ensure that we have as many qualified Sierra Leoneans as possible wherever there is a gap. We also want to focus on African local content with our neighbors because local content is key to driving industry growth. We have many programs and training that we offer around petroleum engineering and geology.

    How is Sierra Leone balancing the energy transition with its need for energy security?

    Our plan is to not leave our oil and gas resources in the ground. A key part of industrialization is driving access to energy. We are aware of climate change, and as we develop our resources, we will make sure our sector is ready for future business models and low-carbon operations. Our resources are more useful in shaping the energy transition and economic development when they are on the surface than in the ground, hence we will continue with drilling, development and monetization of our resources.

    How is the Petroleum Directorate serving to attract new investment?  

    We are very active in terms of attracting investments and promoting opportunities within Sierra Leone. We are not just waiting for investments to come to us – we are going where they are. We had very fruitful meetings and conversations with companies in Qatar around natural gas, and we will be chatting with two Italian IOCs. The industry is competitive and we need to be actively seeking investors.

    What are the key investment opportunities within Sierra Leone’s energy value chain?

    We have recently made a discovery with a small-to-medium upstream company and are looking for companies willing to develop that to meet our in-country energy needs. We have also signed an MoU for the development of the Nigeria-Morocco-Niger Gas Pipeline for us to tap into – as well as feed into – that pipeline to meet our demands. In the downstream sector, we are ensuring fuel security with the development of more pipes to import more fuels. The key area that will give us energy independence is exploration.

    With the 2023 edition of African Energy Week being held this October, what message will you be sharing during the event and what deals do you hope to be signed?

    We are closing the licensing round around the time of African Energy Week (AEW) and we plan to sign the agreements during the event. We are currently speaking to one supermajor and we want AEW to be the platform where we make a huge announcement. With the Nigerian company that is already in the basin, it will start drilling a wildcat and appraisal well later this year, so we also plan to announce the size and scope of its discovery at AEW.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    SOURCE
    African Energy Chamber

     

     

  • Event in Pictures

    Event in Pictures

  • Niger Country Unique Selling Points re-echoed

    Niger Country Unique Selling Points re-echoed

    ……As UK Trade and Investment Mission Visits

    Story: Mohammed Abu

    The Nigerien Minister of Trade, H.E.Mr. Allache Alhada has re-echoed Niger’s numerous investment opportunities in terms of huge agriculture potential, rich mineral deposits, energy, tourism and handicrafts among others adding that, his Ministry was playing the facilitator role.

    Mr. Alhada also touched on concrete measures being taken by government to create a most enabling environment for businesses and investments to thrive well in Niger.

    Mr. Alhada was speaking recently in Niamey during an audience he granted to members of the UK Trade and Investment Mission to Niger in the company of Her Excellency, Ms Catherine Inglehearn MBE, the UK Ambassador to Niger alongside representatives of a number of Ghana based Nigerien diaspora owned companies and other Ghanaian companies with business interest in Niger.

    The meeting was part of the programme line up of the UK Trade and Investment Mission to Niger held concurrently with the visit of  the West Africa region Country Manager of  the UK Export Finance, Steven Gray .

    The two-day event organized under the auspices of the British Embassy in Niamey and the UK Exports Finance in collaboration with the government of Niger, drew about twelve companies from the UK as well as some  local Nigerien economic operators and their Ghanaian counterparts.

    Mr. Alhada noted that the essence of involving the Ghanaian economic operators during the UK Trade and Investment Mission was borne out of the fact that, Ghanaian companies had decades long experience in trade, business and financing matters as it relates to the UK. Thus, their participation he intimated, was good for the possibility of fruitful collaboration and partnership between them thereby adding value to the UK mission to Niger.

    Also part of the programme line-up was audience with the Ministry of Planning, Industry, Agro-industrial pole creation among others.

    There were also presentations sessions on Investment opportunities in Niger by the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Ministry of Agriculture, Mines, Hydrocarbons, energy among others as well as presentation by Her Excellency, Ms Ingleheam the British Ambassador to Niger, the West Africa regional Executive Director of UK Export Finance, Steven Grey, FCDO, DMA Invest, members of the visiting UK Trade and Investment Mission to Niger, UK Export Financing mechanisms for infrastructure among others.

    The two-day programme packed event was rounded off by a visit of the UK Trade and Investment Mission led by Her Excellency, the UK Ambassador to Niger, MA Invest and members of the UK Mission to LAIT SA, Riz Du Niger,

    The event was in reciprocation to an earlier Nigerien Mission to the UK.

     

  • Groups List 11 Economic Development Measures To Achieve Net Zero Emissions By 2060

    Groups List 11 Economic Development Measures To Achieve Net Zero Emissions By 2060

    The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), GCA Capital Partners and Climate Advisers Network (Berlin) have listed 11 key measures for Nigeria to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.

    Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, an internationally recorgnised scholar, stated this at a news conference on Monday, March 20, 2023, in Abuja.

    Okereke, who is Director, SPP, said that the 11 measures were adopted out of a long list of 35 measures identified in key policy documents across priority sectors: Agriculture, Forestry and Land Use, Industry and Housing, Oil & Gas, Power, Transport, Waste and Water.

    Okereke listed the top 11 measures to include: on- and Off-grid generation of renewable electricity, elimination of Diesel and Gasoline generators by 2030, and Planting of 300 million trees by 2030.

    Others included End gas flaring by 2030, reduce wood cooking and introduce clean cooking to 30 million households, Construction of 300,000 green home annually for 5 years, shift to Bus Rapid Transport with enforcement of emission standards.

    He also added Transition to properly designed engineered landfill with state-of-the-art gas collection, enhanced irrigation powered by renewable energy, increase energy efficiency by reducing transmission losses, and restoration of landscape scale and recharge of Lake Chad Basin.

    According to him, a rough calculation indicates that these measures could result in emission reduction of about 174.01 million metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2030, similar to fossil emissions of Algeria or Iraq in 2021.

    The scholar said that the aim of the project was to present the steps and decisions in a format that is accessible to a wider public through communication materials that can stimulate and inform a wider public debate involving civil society, policymakers and more importantly, the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) as it embarks on its full implementation of its mandate.

    “Taken together, the Top 11 measures are best-suited to private and blended types of investment, which is essential in the current circumstances and are expected to signal an observable shift in the course of decision making for massive economic and social development while putting Nigeria on the path of achieving her net-zero ambition by 2060,” Okereke said.

    He said that Nigeria at the brink of multiple climate crisis submitted an ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), presented its Energy Transition Plan and subsequently passed the Climate Change Act into law in 2021.

    He said that few months later, Nigeria launched its Long-Term Vision to 2050 (LTV2050) that is now expected to appraise the development of its Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy.

    He added that the significance of these steps was to galvanise effective action towards meeting its commitment made at the COP26 in Glasgow to achieve net-zero target by 2060.

    Okereke said that the project embarked by SPP, and others analysed decisions and actions that, if taken in the next five years, would underpin a socio-economic transformation required to enable Nigeria to meet the government’s 2060 net-zero objective announced at COP26 in Glasgow.

    According to him, the context of the project with regards to benefits and successful implementation of each measure were assessed based on four criteria, listed to include:

    1. Economic diversification, (youth) job creation and poverty reduction;
    2. Security, social safeguards, and gender equality;
    3. Food security & public and environmental health; and,
    4. Sustainable and affordable power and transport to justify the diversity and sustainability of the measures.

    Source:(Centre for Climate Change & Dev.Blog News)

  • With participation of 600 speakers in over 160 dialogue sessions

    With participation of 600 speakers in over 160 dialogue sessions

    Abu Dhabi hosts the world’s largest investment forum

     Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 21 March 2023: The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, will be hosting the 12th edition of the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM Global 2023) to be held on May 8 to 10 under the theme “The Investment Paradigm Shift: Future Investment Opportunities to Foster Sustainable Economic Growth, Diversity and Prosperity” with over 600 high-level speakers participating in more than 160 dialogue sessions.

    Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the AIM Global for the first time, which is supported by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, is aligned with the emirate’s efforts to further strengthen its economic position in the region and to promote foreign direct investments among the countries of the world by consolidating investment opportunities aimed at sustainable development and leveraging digital technology.

    Dawood Al Shezawi, Chairman of the Annual Investment Meeting, said: “The Annual Investment Meeting, the largest investment forum, has succeeded throughout its previous editions in solidifying the position of the United Arab Emirates on the global investment map, and in pushing forward its progress over the next 50 years.”

    He added that organizing the 12th edition of the Annual Investment Meeting in Abu Dhabi, which has established itself as a preferred and thriving business and investment destination, is a result of its proactive ability and flexibility in dealing with changes and developments to stimulate and support appropriate events and talents, and providing innovative solutions to face current and future challenges.”

    He also stressed that they are continuously working to establish the foundations of a business system that provides opportunities for growth and prosperity for investors to achieve sustainable economic and social development goals.

    “The event provides businessmen and investors with the opportunity to meet, establish strategic agreements and partnerships, expand their businesses, and introduce new channels of work that are offered by the available investment sectors that are abundant in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and the entire United Arab Emirates,” Al Shezawi added.

    The Annual Investment Meeting brings together a high-level group of leaders, government officials, decision-makers, businessmen, major regional and international investors, key global companies and organizations, as well as smart city solution and technology providers and a number of startups and institutions financing small and medium-sized projects, over the course of three days.

    Its main purpose is to discuss how to better utilize technological innovations to augment investments in companies, encourage technology transfer, and increase competitiveness for countries to achieve economic growth through sustainable investments, and exchange views with governments to create stronger economic structures for investors and unify opportunities for the sustainable growth of the economy.

    This year’s 12th edition seeks to expand the scope of work by launching a range of activities that will benefit all of its participants. It will focus on two main tracks, Investment and Innovation & Technology, and on 10 key sectors, which include Agriculture, Energy, Technology, Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Tourism & Hospitality, Transportation & Logistics, Finance, Healthcare, and Education.

    The event agenda

    The Annual Investment Meeting has in its agenda a series of activities and programs, such as a specialized exhibition, investments roundtables, investment awards, startup awards, investor’s hub, investment destinations, B2B,G2B, G2G meetings, regional focus forums as well as pre-conference workshops.

    In addition, several side conferences and events will be organized and hosted, including “Make it in the Emirates”; “Invest in Abu Dhabi”; “Road to the World Investment Forum” in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development; “Entrepreneurs Investment Forum” with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO); “Bloomberg New Energy Finance Forum”; “Future Finance Forum” with the Union of Arab Banks; “World Local Production Forum” with the World Health Organization; “Tourism Investment Forum” with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO); “Agriculture Technology & Food Security Investment Forum” hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations; “Least Developed Countries Forum” in partnership with the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies; “Finoverse Forum”; “Distressed and Alternative Investment Forum” with the DDC Financial Group; and “Advanced Manufacturing Investment Forum” to be hosted by UNIDO.

     Entrepreneurs Investment Summit (UNIDO)

    Entrepreneurs Investment Summit 2023, organized by the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, the Union of Arab Chambers, and the Investment and Technology Promotion Office of UNIDO in Bahrain, aims to create a platform for promoting bankable investment opportunities led by entrepreneurs/SMEs and macro investments from African and Arab region.

    It also seeks to share best practices and experiences from Africa and the Arab Region on the means of stimulating and unleashing entrepreneurship and joint investments, and deliberate on the challenges, opportunities, threats, and the road forward towards achieving the Arab-African economic integration.

    The Future Finance Forum

    The Future Finance Forum, organized in collaboration with the Union of Arab Banks, will provide a platform for stakeholders from government, industry, civil society, and academia to engage in a comprehensive examination of the trends and challenges shaping the future of finance.

    The theme of the forum “Leveraging Innovative Technologies for Financial Inclusion and Sustainability” reflects the recognition of the critical role that financial innovation plays in promoting inclusive and sustainable development.

     Tourism Investment Forum(UNWTO)

    The UNWTO is organizing the Tourism Investment Forum following the unprecedented and extensive disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in the tourism sector, which requires a quantum leap in tourism investments to better support and accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.

    There is growing consensus among tourism stakeholders as to how the future resilience of tourism will depend on the sector’s ability to balance the needs of People, Planet and Prosperity.

    In line with these goals, the Tourism Investment Forum provides an opportunity for governments, private sector investors, multilateral financial institutions, and development banks to enhance their coordination and combine their capacities and resources to turn priorities into investable projects by unlocking the potential of a new and redefined tourism investment approach.

     Bloomberg New Energy Finance UAE Forum

    The Bloomberg New Energy Finance UAE Forum discusses the dynamic shift in demand for traditional commodities such as oil, gas, and metals in light of the transition to a low-carbon economy, as newer commodities such as power, carbon, hydrogen, and even sustainable aviation fuels will see their landscape change. Participants will also address several questions, such as the role of “clean energy molecules” and what energy producers in the Middle East should expect.

    The forum will also present the results of the New Energy Outlook report and the various net-zero pathways that can emerge for countries and sectors, with the Middle East playing a role in supporting the pathways of other countries.

    Distressed and Alternative Investment Forum

    The DDC Financial Group’s Distressed and Alternative Investment Forum features two dialogue panels. The first, “The Role of Distressed & Alternatives in a Diversified Portfolio,” discusses the available opportunities for investors in the field, the current economic environment and how rising interest rates are creating a unique set of opportunities for distressed debt investors that has not been seen for over a decade.

    The second session sheds light on the Global Distressed and NPL Investing, providing insights into strategies and opportunities available in this field. It involves a discussion on the different asset classes in this sector of the market, including real estate, corporate, and consumer debt, the secondary market, as well as the panelists’ sharing of their experiences and analysis of investing in distressed and NPL assets across different geographies, including emerging markets and developed economies.

    It also covers the challenges and opportunities of investing in these markets, taking into account macroeconomic conditions, industry-specific trends and the unique regulatory and legal frameworks that govern these transactions.

    The Finoverse Arabia Forum

    The Finoverse Arabia Forum discusses the role of FinTechs and the adoption of technology in shaping the future of financial and banking institutions, as well as maximizing their efficiency and profits. It also explores the lessons learned from founding and developing startups, and sharing best practices through several panel discussions that address the intersection of FinTech, artificial intelligence, and Web3.

    This includes transforming business models and strategies across sectors, while addressing the infrastructure gaps and regulatory challenges. The advantages of investing in building a trusted Internet network across regions are also reviewed, along with strategies for securing and attracting the best talent to fuel Web3’s continued growth.

    The AIM Global 2023 is preceded by a series of professional interactive training sessions, led by experienced industry experts from all over the world. There will also be a range of workshops sessions aimed at enriching the participants’ experience and informing them about profitable investment opportunities.

    These workshops will be held one day prior to the event, where governments, smart city solution providers, startups, small and medium-sized companies, and investment opportunity providers touch base to achieve economic growth for their respective countries and regions.

    For more information, please visit the AIM website at www.aimcongress.com.

    -Ends-

     

  • H.E. Amadou Allahoury Diallo grants Sarki Pro-Umar Tanko Audience in Niamey

    H.E. Amadou Allahoury Diallo grants Sarki Pro-Umar Tanko Audience in Niamey

    Report: Mohammed Abu

    The Special Ministerial Advisor to the H.E., President Bazoum and coordinator of the Agro-industrial Poles Programme, H.E. Mr. Amadou Allahoury Diallo, last week  granted Sarki Pro-Umar Tanko,the Bonkuano of the Greater Accra Zarma Community, Ghana audience  in Niamey.

    Welcoming Sarki Tanko, H.E., Mr. Diallo briefly  recounted his service at the Food and Agricultural Organization(FAO) in Ghana several decades ago.

    Sarki Tanko while appreciating the warm reception accorded him, also disclosed to the H.E. Mr. Diallo, his personal extra  endeavors towards wooing other  potential   investors with interest in the government’s Agro-industrial Pole creation Programme.He also added, that  he would accordingly  update H.E., in event of any expression of interest on the part of any investor(s) to embark on an exploratory visit to Niamey.

    The government of Niger has since adopted various measures aimed at  unlocking  the full potential of the country’s huge agriculture potential to the benefit of the gross national economy.

    Under the  government’s   economic rebirth agenda, it is focused on  scaling up rain-fed dependent driven small holder production while also promoting  irrigation-fed commercial production and  agro-processing for exports.

    Sarki Tanko also mentioned to  H.E.Mr. Diallo, about his post UE-Niger Business Forum survey of some Nigerien rural communities in other to explore investment opportunities they also offer but often over looked by the average  investor.

     

  • “Treat Niger Chamber of Commerce as your Home”-Says H.E., Mr. Moussa Sidi Mohamed

    “Treat Niger Chamber of Commerce as your Home”-Says H.E., Mr. Moussa Sidi Mohamed

    …………As Ghanaian Company Representatives  Call on him in Niamey

    Report: Mohammed Abu

    The President of the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture, Industry & Handicrafts, Mr. Moussa Sidi Mohamed has asked diaspora Nigerien owned companies as well as all other Ghanaian companies with business interest in Niger, to treat the chamber as their home.

    Mr. Mohamed also advised them to seek from the chamber, expert advice relating to their new business set up in the country while also urging them not to hesitate to bring to the notice of the chamber if they happen to be encountering any difficulties during their business incorporation process.

    He said that the Nigeri government had taken pragmatic steps through various reforms aimed at reducing both cost and ease of doing business in Niger. Touching on gains so far made in this direction, Mr. Mohamed cited the World Bank worldwide ease of doing business 2020-2021 rankings that had put Niger in the position of 132 out of 190 countries with a score of 56.8 percent.

    Under the reforms, incorporation of a company he said, now takes a maximum of three working days and at the cost CFA17,500.00.

    Mr. Mohamed was speaking during a courtesy call on him by Ghanaian participants facilitated by Her Excellency, Hajia Salamatou Goga, the Nigerien Ambassador to Ghana, on the sidelines of a two-day Workshop (15th-16th March) on the UK Export Finance funding procedure, terms and conditions.

    The event was held to co-inside with the visit of its Executive Director for West Africa as well as, a UK Trade Mission to Niger that comprised Representatives of about twelve UK companies.

    Mr. Mohammed added that, Niger’s huge agriculture, substantial mineral deposits, tourism and handicrafts potential among others, offers diverse investment opportunities for investors and thus, Niger is welcoming investors with open hands.

    In a submission, Alhaj Abdul Aziz Adamu, the Managing Director of Global Haulage Ltd, Ghana, a Ghanaian company reputed for haulage of agro-products and general goods in Ghana and other parts of the West African sub-region, said they weren’t just into haulage of the commodities alone, but also into their trade as well including financing.

    The Group, Alhaj Adamu disclosed, was in Niger alongside their business partners to explore diverse areas of investment opportunities including information Technology(IT.)

    Earlier in a brief presentation on the Global Haulage Group during the workshop session, Maria Adamu-Zebo, Managing Director of the Federated Commodities Ltd, a member of the Group said that, aside haulage of commodities, the group was also into commodities trade via licensed cocoa buying and exports as well as banking and financing.

    Sarki Alhaj Pro-Umar Tanko, CEO of Tanko Forex Bureau Ltd, Ghana, who also doubles as the Chief of the Zarma Community in the Greater Accra region of Ghana on his part, underscored the need for investor circumspection while recounting losses incurred in the country by Ghana based diaspora Nigerien owned companies in the previous past.

    Sarki Pro-Umar Tanko said that aside forex trading operations, he was into investment in land property and development as well as trading in refined oil products.

    He also disclosed that during a post UE-Niger Business Forum survey he conducted in some rural communities in Niger, it was established that those areas also offer some promising investments opportunities often overlooked by most investors.

    Sarki Tanko while also lauding Her Excellency, Hajia Salamatou Goga, the Nigeri Ambassador to Ghana for her hard work, also prayed the Nigeri authorities to grant her a longer tenure of office for the benefit of Niger-Ghana diplomatic, bilateral and business relations.

    Other Ghanaian companies present were, the New Modern World Company Ltd, led by its CEO, Hon Usman Inusah and other members of his management Team, Mutilai Trading Enterprise, Federated Commodities Ltd among others.

    In another development Her Excellency, the Nigerien Ambassador to Ghana also facilitated a meeting between representatives of six Ghanaian companies and His Excellency, President Mohamed Bazoum during which the Nigerien  Trade Minister, H.E., Alkache Alhada was also present.

    The Trade Minister underscored the importance of getting Ghanaian companies to participate in the UK Export Finance funding procedure Workshop. This, he said was borne out of the fact that, Ghanaian companies had decades long experience in doing business with the UK as well as, the UK Export Finance mode of funding. Thus, their presence at the event as high level economic operators in Ghana was good for synergy and value addition to the event.

    His Excellency, President Bazoum on his part assured the Ghanaian companies of government security protection in the country for investors, a guarantee of their investments, lower company incorporation cost and ease of doing business.

    His Excellency further assured them of tax and duty exemption on their imported equipment relating to their various fields of business operation and with particular reference to agriculture machinery.

     

  • President Ramkalawan attends the first ‘Oath of Allegiance’ ceremony for applicants that have acquired Seychellois citizenship

    President Ramkalawan attends the first ‘Oath of Allegiance’ ceremony for applicants that have acquired Seychellois citizenship

    10 March 2023 | Legal Affairs

    The President of the Republic, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan witnessed the swearing-in of nine persons with Swiss, Kenyan, Irish, British, Malagasy, Thai, Italian, Ghanaian, and German nationalities who met all criteria and are eligible for Seychellois citizenship. The special event took place this morning at the Seychelles National Museums in Victoria.

    The ceremony, which is the first of its kind, is one whereby the new citizens took their Oath of Allegiance in public. This follows the Cabinet decision taken last year concerning the amendments of the Citizenship Act 2013 (Cap 30), to increase transparency to the citizenship status of those that have satisfied the criteria established and have opted to start a new life as a citizen of Seychelles.

    In his remarks, President Ramkalawan expressed his satisfaction with the way that this procedure for the request of citizenship for either naturalization or registration has been undertaken with all transparency and accountability.

    During the ceremony, the citizenship certificates were handed out as well as Seychelles flags. It was also marked by the reading of the Preamble of the Constitution of Seychelles.

    Following the ceremony today, details of the persons (including photographs) of those who have conferred with citizenship status, will be published in the Gazette and local newspapers within a specific timeframe.

    Also present to witness the ceremony, was the Attorney General, Mr. Frank Ally, PS for Immigration & Civil Status and Chairman of Citizenship and Eligibility Committee, Mr. Alain Volcere, Chief Immigration Officer of Immigration & Civil Status, Mrs. Erica Dufresnne, Principal Immigration Officer of Immigration & Civil Status, Mr. Mervin Elizabeth, members of the Citizenship and Eligibility Committee, the Arch Deacon Father Danny Elizabeth and Ms. Laura Ah-time, among other invited guests.

    Source:(State House News, Seychelles)