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  • About African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit-ACEACFMS 2023

    About African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit-ACEACFMS 2023

    ACCRA, Ghana, November 29, 2023/- As the day for the largest international Summit for the building, construction and real estate industry maiden event in Ghana, the African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit (ACEACFMS 2023), draws closer, confirmations are coming in from both in-person and virtual participants within Ghana, Africa, Canada, Australia & New Zealand among others

    West African Sub-region

    Some of the high profile in-person participants from the West African sub-region who have confirmed their participation are, Engr Dr. Modasiru Bola (Principal Partner Prolarank Nigeria Limited currently, the National Secretary General of the Nigeria Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers and Engr Essono Alain, Training Consultant, the National Civil Engineers Association of Cameroon.

    Outside Africa

    Confirmations for virtual participation has already been received from Canada, Australia & New Zealand as well as South Africa.

    Being organized as collaborative effort between the Africa Continental Engineering & Construction Network (ACECN) and GM Bamboo Eco-City Ltd, the expects a total participant score of thousand (1000+), about 500 Ghanaian and foreign in-person participants and 200 virtual and 300 virtual international participants with particular reference to those from Angola, Cameroon, Congo-Brazzaville, Cote D’Ivoire, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, The Gambia and Togo.

    Aims & Objectives

    By far, it is the singular and most impactful Sustainability Summit that brings together all sector players across the African continent to discuss industry best practices, contemporary innovations and technologies that have the potential of influencing decision making for a resilient African Engineering, Construction and Real Estate Industry and by extension, creating a high-level business networking opportunity for all stakeholders both locally and across the globe.

    The objective is to set the stage for the transitioning of the conventional built environment to a sustainable built environment whilst creating opportunity for high-end business networking to foster synergy and high-level business partnerships/collaborations for corporate growth and for the African continental prosperity at large.

    Who to Attend

    Influential building contractors, road contractors, professional practicing civil engineers, electrical engineers, surveyors, planners, architects, project managers, real estate developers, building and construction material/equipment suppliers, glaziers and fabricators.

    Also included are, interior deco professionals/companies, roofing companies/technicians, transport & logistics companies, facility management institutions/professionals, construction project financiers, investors, project insurance institutions, artisans among others.

    Being held for the first time under the theme: INTEGRATING SUSTAINABLE BUILT ENVIRONMENT FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION THROUGH THE USE OF DIGITAL TWIN TECHNOLOGIES, the organizers plan to make it a most bespoke annual industry event.

     Benefits to be derived by Participants

    The event seeks to create an enabling business environment and opportunity for participants to land big contracts, seal potential partnership deals, boost sales, build strong network with the most influential industry players, get signed on to top-rated projects/contractors/professionals across the African continent and beyond has finally come.

    “You have the opportunity to interact with and do business with our principal sponsors and consultants among few are, GM-Bamboo Eco-City Ltd, Rockville Construction Ltd, B5 Plus Group, Aya Fabrications & Engineering Ltd, Premier Steel Ltd, Neuce Paints Ltd, Primus Group, the McDan Group, Eris Properties, Ezojam Ltd, etc.,” said,Sir Daniels Kontie, President to ACECN.

    African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Summit Partners

    The event Partners include, the Ghana Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET-GH), the Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS), the Ghana Institution of Architects (GhIA), the Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors of Ghana (ABCECG), the Ghana Institution of Planners (GhIP), the Association of Road Contractors, Ghana, (ASROC), among several others.

    African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Summit Principal Sponsors/Partners

    The Principal Sponsors and partners of the event include, Premier Steel Ltd, Youngi Design Consult Ltd, McDan Group, Aya Toptech & Fabrication Ltd, Bamboo Eco-City, Berock Construction Ltd, G-IBF Ltd, among several others.

    Event Opening

    Chief Guest of Honour: H.E. JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA, FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA;

    Guest of Honour/Main Keynote Speaker: ING. MRS. CARLIEN BOU-CHEDID, Earthquake and Structural Engineer; Former President of Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) and Immediate Past President of Federation of African Engineering Organizations

     Guest of Honour/Keynote Speaker: DASEBRE KWESI EWUSI VII, the Paramount Chief of Abeadze Traditional Area, Central Region of Ghana Past Member of Council of State, Former Vice President National House of Chiefs, Former President Central Region House of Chiefs;

     Guest of Honour/Keynote Speaker: DR. DANIEL MCKORLEY Executive Chairman of McDan Group of Companies

    Host Opening Remarks and Individual Introductory Messages to One Another The host will welcome the participants to the African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit. The host will facilitate the individual introductions and offer an overview of the summit objectives and upcoming agenda for the day.

    You are Sustainable Built Environment Industry by MR. DANIEL KONTIE, President and CEO, African Continental Engineering & Construction Network, The Organizers of the Built Environment Sustainability Summit. The Organizer of the Built Environment Sustainability Summit will explain the significance of the summit and the strategic networking and knowledge dissemination campaigns that guide our work.

    Plenary Sessions

    Main Keynote Address Integrating Sustainable Built Environment Industry for Socio-economic Transformation Through the use of Digital Twin Technologies by ING. MRS. CARLIEN BOU-CHEDID, Earthquake and Structural Engineer; Former President of Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) and Immediate Past President of Federation of African Engineering Organizations

    Keynote Talk I

    Providing Sustainable Logistics and Supply Chain Management Services for Socio-Economic Transformation of the Sustainable Built Environment Industry DR. DANIEL MCKORLEY Executive Chairman of McDan Group of Companies

    Keynote Talk III Land Dispute Resolution Sustainable Land Acquisition for Sustainable Infrastructure Development in the face of Climate Crisis DAASEBRE KWEBU EWUSI VII, The Paramount Chief of Abeadze Traditional Area in the Central Region, Past Member of Council of State, Former Vice President National House of Chiefs, Former President Central Region House of Chiefs

    Technical Sessions Workshops Oral Presentations

    Refocusing Ghana’s EARTHQUAKE Preparedness and Response for Socio-Economic Transformation Through the use of Digital Twin Technologies ING. MRS. CARLIEN BOU-CHEDID, Earthquake and Structural Engineer

    Refocusing Ghana’s FLOOD Preparedness and Response for Socio-Economic Transformation Through the use of Digital Twin Technologies PROF. DIVINE AHADZIE, Head of Centre for Settlement Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Transforming the Built Environment through the use of Sustainable Materials – BAMBOO PRODUCTS AND LESSER-KNOWN & LESSER-USED TIMBER SPECIES – based on the Digital Twin Technologies by ING. PROF. EMMANUEL APPIAH-KUBI

    African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Excellence Awards Ceremony

    The categories of the event awards ceremony component include the following: Excellence in Technology & Innovation Award 2. Excellence in Environmental Sustainability and Green Financing Award 3. Emerging Green Business Award 4. Excellence in Professional Service Award and 5. Supreme Business Excellence Award

    Date: 14th  December,2023

    Time: 9.00-5.00 pm

    Venue:De-Icon Conference Centre,East Legon,Accra

    Note to Editors

    AFRICA CONTINENTAL ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION NETWORK (ACECN)

    Since its establishment five years ago, ACECN has been at the forefront of the construction and engineering industry in the region, undertaking diverse projects of varying scales and complexities.

    Media Contact: Mr. Daniel Kontie; Phone no.: 0209032280; E-mail: info@acecnltd.com, d.kontie@acecnltd.com;

    Website: http://www.acecnltd.com/

     GM BAMBOO ECO-CITY LTD. is a fully integrated Urban Farm Eco-City design, investment, development and management Limited Liability Company based in Ghana.

     Media Contact: Engr. Samuel Worwui; Phone no.: 0509160497; E-mail: Samuel.worwui@gmail.com, info@bambooecocity.com; Website: www.bambooecocity.com

    Event registration link:   https://forms.gle/KTRCNVY2Lppssf9o9

     

  • United States (U.S.) and African Development Bank Collaborate to Accelerate Africa’s Digital Transformation

    United States (U.S.) and African Development Bank Collaborate to Accelerate Africa’s Digital Transformation

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, November 28, 2023/ — The U.S. Commercial Service and the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) have announced a new strategic collaboration in a move to drive digital transformation across Africa.

    Unveiled on the sidelines of the Africa Tech Festival held in Cape Town, South Africa, this collaboration paves the way for a series of dialogues on how U.S. digital innovation can support development goals across Africa.

    The discussions will focus on key themes such as embracing new technologies, improving internet access, enhancing skills, and creating a regulatory environment conducive to innovation.

    Both parties will explore how African governments can collaborate with American technology firms to grow their economies and how U.S. businesses can tap into new opportunities in Africa’s emerging markets.

    Ashley Ndir, senior U.S. Commercial Liaison to the African Development Bank, emphasized, “We are at a turning point in Africa’s technological advancement. By bridging insights from the U.S. private sector with Africa’s vibrant markets, we aim to drive innovation and economic growth. This partnership is a testament to that mission.”

    Head of ICT Operations Nicholas Williams from the African Development Bank said, “Africa has made significant investments in pivotal infrastructure and policy enhancements to create an innovative digital economy.

    As Africa’s premier development finance institution, the African Development Bank will help push Africa’s digital boundaries even further by forging strategic relations, building on historical investments and, more importantly, tapping into the energy of our young population, who are digital natives. We value the insights that the U.S. private sector may bring.”

    The initiative builds on the African Development Bank’s $2 billion investment in digital infrastructure, which includes regional and national broadband development, creating favourable policy environments for private sector investments, scaling digital skills, and nurturing innovative enterprises.

    The Bank’s efforts have reduced the cost of internet access, enhanced digital literacy, and fostered a conducive business and policy environment. It will also benefit from the U.S. Commercial Service’s experience in fostering international trade.
    This collaboration promises to champion the digital transformation in Africa, aiming for a future where technology empowers growth and prosperity.
    With this partnership, both the U.S. Commercial Service and the African Development Bank reaffirm their commitment to not only elevate digital capabilities in Africa but also to ensure that the continent’s potential is fully realized in the digital era.
    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Media contact: 
    Communication and External Relations Department
    media@afdb.org
  • About Promoting a Just Circular and Blue Economy Transition in Africa

    About Promoting a Just Circular and Blue Economy Transition in Africa

    Mohammed A. Abu

    The Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of South Africa based Sustainable Seas Trust(SST), Janine Osborne has declared that, her organization’s work will focus on strengthening existing multi-lateral partnerships (specifically with the Abidjan and Nairobi conventions, and WIOMSA) to promote a just transition for Africa to a circular and blue economy through supporting its African partners’ response to the incipient global plastics treaty.

    “While securing multiple funding sources beyond this generous grant remains a priority, SST is truly grateful to the Norwegian government for their continued partnership and support of our ambitious vision” she stated.

    Janine Osborne made the observations following a formal grant signing ceremony between her organization and the Norwegian Ambassador to South Africa who signed on behalf of his home government.

    The signing ceremony was followed by a field trip during which SST accompanied the Norwegian Embassy delegation and the Ambassador to the Motherwell Community and Enviro-Hub, which SST has supported over the last few years.

    Janine Osborne further intimated, “It’s a great local example of the community work we support and the significant change that is possible through meaningful partnerships”. Adding “Together, we’ll sustain Africa’s seas”.

    Sustainable Seas Trust(SST), is a science-based organization working to protect Africa’s seas and communities for the benefit of all who live on the continent

    The organization works towards uplifting and sustaining solutions that will enable the blue economy. Through education, research and targeted action, as well as partnerships it endeavors to curb the risk of marine pollution through integrating waste management principles into value chains

    To realize the goal of a sustainable blue economy for Africa, the organization believes there is the need to first start on land.

  • Islamic Development Bank Institute Joins Forces with Nigerian Exchange Limited to Boost Islamic Capital Markets in Nigeria

    Islamic Development Bank Institute Joins Forces with Nigerian Exchange Limited to Boost Islamic Capital Markets in Nigeria

    LAGOS, Nigeria, November 28, 2023/ — The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDB Institute) (https://IsDBInstitute.org) joined forces with the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) to deliver an influential Islamic capital markets capacity-building workshop in Lagos, Nigeria.

    Organized under the theme “Economic Growth and Business Development Opportunities through the Islamic Capital Markets”, the workshop aimed to contribute to deepening the Nigerian capital markets through the listings and issuances of Islamic financial instruments.

    The workshop was held on 21 November 2023 and attracted 90 participants from across the Nigerian economic and financial sector. These included the Securities and Exchange Commission, National Pension Commission, Debt Management Office, Lagos State Government, NGX staff, and pension fund administrators. Others were senior representatives from law firms, banks, investment banks, fund managers, leasing and asset management companies, and heads of leading corporate and financial industry associations.

    The program commenced with keynote speeches by Mr. Jude Chiemeka (Executive Director, Capital Markets at the NGX), Mr. Dayo Obisan (Executive Commissioner, Operations at the Securities and Exchange Commission), and Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem (Acting Director General, IsDB Institute).

    The keynote messages celebrated this important partnership between the IsDBI and the NGX, and highlighted the prominent role that Islamic financial products and services can play in supporting Nigeria’s economic development, including through Sukuk for infrastructure projects, as well as providing liquidity to the corporate sector through equity and fund listings.

    The rest of the day featured six interactive and tailored capacity building sessions providing practical knowledge to the participants on Islamic capital markets regulations, products, and services. The sessions included discussions on contemporary issues and practices of Islamic finance in different jurisdictions and enriching the participants’ learning experience with real example case studies and success stories from around the world.

    The last session featured an open dialogue between the participants and the IsDBI trainers on practical measures needed to utilize Islamic capital markets to support inclusive economic growth and sustainable business practices in Nigeria. The overall program and its sessions were organized and delivered by two Senior Islamic Finance Specialists at IsDBI: Mr. Syed Faiq Najeeb and Dr. Abozer Mohamed.

    A closed-door workshop was also held on 22 November 2023 at the NGX Group House as a roundtable with the two IsDBI trainers and the NGX management and staff, focusing on building the prerequisite enabling environment at the NGX for boosting Islamic capital markets activity.

    Overall, this partnership between the IsDBI and the NGX opens doors for a longer-term strategic relationship between both institutions to further develop and deepen the Islamic capital markets in Nigeria.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI).
    Media contact:
    Habeeb Idris Pindiga
    Associate Manager, Knowledge Horizons
    hpindiga@isdb.org
  • Honouring African Women’s Rights Advocacy Excellence

    Honouring African Women’s Rights Advocacy Excellence

    Story: Mohammed A. Abu

    Chief Superintendent, Dr. Sarah Aba Afari, has been awarded  in South Africa by the country’s women organization,the Leading Women of Africa(LIWA) in the category, “Women’s Rights Advocate” during their, “LIWA Future is Female Male Champions Award” ceremony as part of the Africa Partnership for Growth(APG) Symposium and Exhibition event,that was held ,from 16th-18th November, in Johannesburg,South Africa.

    Your favorite, the Eco-Enviro News Africa caught up with her for her special message to Ghana, Africa’s girls with particular reference to female students and women in general.

    The Ghana, Africa’s first uniformed female PhD holder, said, “girls and women have inborn abilities to aspire to any level of life”.adding,“Girls must dream and have bigger dreams of becoming leaders who would think outside the box.”

    “Leaders with self-respect, self-resilience, and power to shake off the limiting gender and stereotypes. Girls are the majority, therefore, must be disciplined in their thoughts and behavior to build their capacity for tomorrow” Dr. Sarah.Aba Afari, intimated.

    Earlier in October this year, she was honored with two honorary doctorates at a grand ceremony in Ghana.

    That was in recognition of her outstanding leadership achievements and the exceptional quality she has consistently demonstrated in her role as Chief of Police.

    The honorary degrees conferred upon her,Citi News last reported,were, an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Ministry (DMin Honoris Causa) and a Doctorate Degree in Christian Education (DCEd Honoris Causa), both from Holy Spirit Bible University in the USA.

    Dr. Aba Afari’s remarkable career it also reported,has also included collaborations with the UN and significant contributions to major investigations involving the US Embassy and more.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Accounting and Financial Professionals Must Lead Africa’s Transition to Sustainable Development

    Accounting and Financial Professionals Must Lead Africa’s Transition to Sustainable Development

    OHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 27, 2023/ — Accountants must be fit to lead Africa’s inclusive sustainable growth and economic recovery ensuring the continent’s place in the global arena, says ACCA, (The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) (www.ACCAGlobal.com) as it readies for its annual conference held for the first time in South Africa.

    Hundreds of accounting professionals from across Africa are expected to gather at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, for the fourth Africa Members Convention (AMC 2023) from December 6-8.

    Themed Empowering Finance Professionals for Sustainable Development in Africa the conference will develop earlier conversations on innovative technologies, integrated thinking for sustainable business practice, international sustainability reporting to drive accountability, developing trade competencies towards supporting intra-Africa trade and enabling members develop careers toward building a better world.

    “The accountancy profession has a fundamental role to play in the transformation of Africa’s economy, as outlined in Africa’s Agenda 2063 – The Africa We Want – which prioritises inclusive social and economic development, continental and regional integration, democratic governance and peace and security amongst other issues, “ said  Jamil Ampomah ACCA Director Africa, responsible for implementing ACCA’s strategy in the region and managing ACCA’s relationships with key African stakeholders – governments, regulators, policy makers, employers, international agencies and regional organisations.

    Several African governments have issued policies toward meeting their sustainability commitments underpinned by environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations. Their adoption indicates the increasing importance of the sustainability agenda in both the private and public sector in Africa.

    The conference will look at sustainability from many angles including financing sustainable development programmes, ethics and professionalism; technology and AI; support of developmental policy, corporate social responsibility and developing accounting career for the future.

    The programme line-up brings together senior commercial and government financial professionals, from across the globe, including the World Bank’s International Bank for Reconstruction and Development,  and South Africa’s Deputy Auditor General.

    Jane Ohadike, Regional Head of Public Affairs for ACCA – Africa, responsible for setting the strategy for public sector and  governments across the region said: “Accountancy and finance professionals are important agents of change and we have identified seven priority areas in which accounting professional have a role. There are building resilient economies, developing the talent of tomorrow, driving sustainable business, advancing standards and regulation, transforming the public sector, supporting entrepreneurial growth and strengthening ethics and trust.

    “I really want to encourage accounting and financial professionals to attend the 2023 ACCA Conference to share their expertise and thinking while also using this platform to network and make strategic business connections.

    Registration is now open and more information can be found online at Africa Members Convention (https://apo-opa.co/47suIsj).

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

    For media enquiries, contact:
    ACCA News Room
    E: newsroom@accaglobal.co

  • Islamic Development Bank Institute Delivers High-Level Islamic Finance Executive Program Sessions

    Islamic Development Bank Institute Delivers High-Level Islamic Finance Executive Program Sessions

    JEDDAH, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, November 26, 2023/ — The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) (www.IsDBInstitute.org) successfully coordinated and delivered high-level knowledge-sharing sessions under the theme ‘Islamic finance and socioeconomic development’ on 14 November 2023. The sessions were part of the 6th edition of the Saudi-Spanish Center for Islamic Economics and Finance (SCIEF) Islamic Finance Executive Program.

    IsDBI collaborated with King Abdulaziz University (KSA) and I.E. Business School (Spain) to organize and support the executive program, held from 13-16 November in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

    During Day 2 of the program, the Institute hosted two technical sessions and one roundtable delivered by the senior leadership and professional staff of the IsDB Group, with 15 participants attending.

    Mr. Amer Bukvic, Acting Director General for Global Practices and Partnerships, IsDB, delivered the first technical session in which he engaged with the participants on the topic of “Development and Humanitarian Efforts by the IsDB and other Multilateral Development Banks”.  This was followed by another interactive session on the “IsDB Group and Its Smart Operational Paradigm”, delivered by Dr. Muhammad Jameel Yusha’u, Acting Director for the Communications and Outreach Department, IsDB.

    The final spotlight of the event was a highly engaging roundtable session on the topic “Driving Innovative Development: Exploring cutting-edge Solutions by the Islamic Development Bank Institute”, moderated by Dr. Mohammed Alyami, Director of Development Effectiveness Office, ICD. He was supported by three panelists: Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, Acting Director General, IsDBI, Dr. Hilal Houssain, Associate Manager, Knowledge Solutions, IsDBI, and Dr. Hylmun Izhar, Senior Economist, IsDBI.

    Overall, the full day involved extensive discussions between the speakers and the panelists on the role of Islamic finance in addressing modern-day challenges and how the IsDB Group is playing its role in supporting the socioeconomic development of its member countries and Muslim communities in the non-member countries.

    From the IsDB Institute, the program was technically coordinated by Mr. Syed Faiq Najeeb, Senior Islamic Finance Specialist, with the guidance of Mr. Yahya Rehman, Associate Manager, Knowledge Leaders, IsDBI.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI).

    Media contact:
    Habeeb Idris Pindiga
    Associate Manager, Knowledge Horizons
    hpindiga@isdb.org

    SOURCE
    Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI)
  • About Acceleration of Africa’s Reconstruction & Development

    About Acceleration of Africa’s Reconstruction & Development

    ………. As Summit Session Holds  Via Zoom   

    Story: Mohammed A. Abu

    Amidst the geopolitical tensions and fragmentations, emerging new alliances and the evolutionary process the global financial infrastructure is currently going through, Dr. Alexander Chisango, President of the World Economic Congress has called on Africans to look inwardly in finding solutions to the continent’s myriad of development challenges rather than  banging  too much hope on others elsewhere.

    Dr. Chisango who was speaking during a zoom meeting on Thursday on the topic, “Discussion: Acceleration of Africa’s Reconstruction”, noted that, what was more crucial for Africans to do, was to well package, rebrand and market themselves as a people who respect themselves and people who deserve respect and honour.

    Hosted by the World Economic Congress in Partnership with El-Ecojay Developments Group & African Partner Agencies for Reconstruction within the context of a weekly series of Africa Reconstruction & Development Summit Sessions, the event brought together high profile participants from across the continent.

    Touching on the nagging issue of being aligned to the West or East, Brinks, or G20 and so on, Dr. Chisango noted that, Africa need to be circumspect on the matter bearing in mind what best suits Africa’s own economic interest eventually.

    The issue of regional blocs’ alienation he noted, was one that isn’t of common knowledge to many Africans including traditional rulers, local government authorities, among others. That being the case, it could eventually be a “We and them” affair as in the time past.

    Africans Dr. Chisango said, should strive to become what they are uniquely as a people rather than having to be referenced to as belonging to either here or there.

    Touching on the celebration and fun fair that has come to be associated with some natural resources discoveries in Africa with particular reference to oil, he observed that, it is not merely the discovery that matter but to what extent has the exploitation of the resources impacted the lives of the people meaningfully is what is most important.

    He lamented how Africans in resource rich countries would grow old and die without feeling any direct meaningful benefit of their country’s natural resources endowment in their lifetime.

    Dr. Chisango noted that there was the need to draw lessons from the exploits of others elsewhere as it relates to natural resource impact so as to be guided by them and avoid making mistakes of the past . Discussions on natural resources impact results and issue of sustainability, he said was crucial.

    In discussing Africa’s development challenges and efforts there was the need to interrogate how, where, why did an endeavor fail, what has become better after the coup in Mali, Burkina Faso and what has become worse do matter.

    Planning and vision Dr. Chisango emphasized, was very crucial and minus which people perish adding that, the is the need to trend “who we are, where we must be and what we want to become”.

    The zoom meetings on the reconstruction of Africa Dr. Chisango disclosed, would be in series and would entail clusters.

    Various participants made contributions bordering on the relevance of finding solutions to the Africa’s development challenges, the new wave of African youth consciousness and their contributions towards changing the Africa narrative, the need for inter relationship between politics and economics, among others.

     

  • African Development Bank, African Guarantee Fund Kick Off Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) Finance Series in Kenya to Unlock Financing for Women-Led Enterprises

    African Development Bank, African Guarantee Fund Kick Off Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) Finance Series in Kenya to Unlock Financing for Women-Led Enterprises

    NAIROBI, Kenya, November 22, 2023/ — The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) through its Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) initiative, in partnership with African Guarantee Fund (AGF) and in collaboration with the Office of the President’s Advisor on Women’s Rights, have inaugurated the 6th edition of the AFAWA Finance Series in Nairobi, Kenya.

    This 3-day event themed “Enhancing Financial Inclusion for Women”, running between 21-23 November, 2023, is a pivotal initiative aiming to revolutionise the financial landscape and foster an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs, facilitating their growth and contribution to the continent’s economic development.

    The AFAWA initiative seeks to increase women’s access to finance in the continent by bridging the $42 billion financing gap for women-led and owned small and medium enterprises.

    Since its inception just over two years ago, the AFAWA initiative has already approved $1.2 billion in funding for women-led enterprises in 32 countries across Africa with a goal to mobilise $5 billion in financing for African women-led businesses by 2026.

    “Financial products need to be tailored to women’s unique lived experiences, needs and aspirations from the start not later when at scale,” said Her Excellency Governor Ann Waiguru, Chair of the Council of Governors in Kenya and the chief speaker at the Finance Series Kenya opening ceremony.

    “Financial institutions face a major challenge in understanding and responding to the unique needs of the women entrepreneurs. We need innovative approaches to improve women’s creditworthiness as traditional collateral requirements only serve to reinforce gender inequalities,” she added.

    The AFAWA Finance Series will emphasise the tangible benefits of gender financing for women-led small and medium enterprises, financial institutions, the Kenyan Government and policymakers. The opening conference will be followed by a 2-day training to sensitize lending institutions on gender smart investing.

    “Kenyan women are known for their resilience and tenacity,” Harriette Chiggai, Women’s Rights Advisor to the Office of the President of the Republic of Kenya told reporters, when detailing table banking, grants and other Government programs targeting women entrepreneurs.

    “The AFAWA Finance Series is an acknowledgement of our commitment to creating an environment where Kenyan women can access essential financial tools for enterprise and development,” Chiggai added.

    The Series explores ways to enhance regulatory frameworks that can boost access to finance for women-led small and medium enterprises. The event will also build understanding of AFAWA’s Guarantee for Growth (G4G) mechanism as implemented by the AGF.

    “Too many women entrepreneurs across the continent are denied opportunities to grow their businesses. We’re here today to help challenge common misperceptions and emphasize that there’s business to be had in offering financial services to women-led enterprises.

    AFAWA understands the challenges women face and the initiative is addressing them head on,” said Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade, Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery at African Development Bank Group.

    Research shows women are better at repaying loans than men, and typically reinvest up to 90% of their income in the education, health and nutrition of their families and communities.

    “The question we are addressing is how to support women and increase their productivity to fully participate in the GDP of the African economy,” said AGF Group CEO, Jules Ngankam. “Through the AFAWA G4G program we are derisking financial institutions that on-lend to women-led SMEs increasing their appetite for this target market,” he added.

    Previous AFAWA Finance Series have been held in Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Angola and Nigeria..

    Representing AFAWA’s donor nations at the Kenya launch were His Excellency H.E. Roberto Natali, Ambassador of Italy to Kenya and Her Excellency Caroline Vicini, Ambassador of Sweden to Kenya.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    For further information, please contact:
    Alphonso Van Marsh
    Principal Digital Content and Events Officer African Development Bank
    Email: media@afdb.org
    www.AfDB.org/en

    Diana Aluga
    Group Communications & Public Relations Officer
    African Guarantee Fund
    Cell: +254 732 148 000,
    Email: info.communications@agf.africa
    https://AfricanGuaranteeFund.com

    Emily Njagi
    Scarlet Digital Limited
    Cell: +254 722 615524
    Email: emily@scarletdigital.co.ke

    Hilda Mwangi
    Scarlet Digital Limited
    Cell: +254 718 611543
    Email: hilda.mwangi@scarletdigital.co.ke

    SOURCE
    African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

  • From COP27 to COP28 – key factors for Africa ahead of the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference

    From COP27 to COP28 – key factors for Africa ahead of the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference

    Opinion Piece By:Tshepo Ntsane, Sustainable Finance Transactor at Rand Merchant Bank 

    The Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) represents an important international forum for countries to gather to discuss and address global climate change issues. However, to date these conferences have tended to be high level and process based, and COP 27 was no exception. – negotiations took place and some of the highlights included the historic establishment of the loss and damage fund which was seen as setting a precedent for climate justice.

    However, agreements on other matters such as phasing out of fossil fuels and setting peaking periods for emissions were not achieved. For African countries in particular, COP 28 marks an important pivot point around funding, just transition and the Nairobi Declaration. There will be a push for realisations on commitments made, and innovative funding mechanisms to drive accelerated climate action now and beyond.

    Making good on promises

    During previous COPs significant commitment were made by developed countries around funding and financial support to help developing nations transition. COP27 saw a funding announcement of about $105 million by eight donor governments to support countries facing the worst effects of climate change, including Senegal, The Gambia, Sao Tome and Principe.

    The pledge adds new funding to the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) and Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF), augmenting the $413 million pledged by 12 other donor countries at COP26.

    However, while numerous promises have been made, no concrete action has yet been taken. Of the commitments made at COP15 to provide $100 billion a year to developing countries for climate action, only a quarter – has been achieved. In addition, one of the main concerns raised with the financing is the fact that a large proportion are structured as loans, thereby imposing a debt burden on already debt-stressed developing countries.

    Other issues include transparency of the agreements and timelines for the funding. For many African countries to move forward, these challenges need to be addressed. This will likely be a topic of focus at COP28, as countries in the region look to achieve their own targets for carbon and emissions reduction.

    Not just about transition

    For many developing countries in Africa still heavily reliant on fossil fuels, the issue of transition is not limited to cleaner, environmentally friendly sources of fuel. Entire communities are often built around fossil fuels, such as in South Africa where, in the Mpumalanga province, entire local economies are dependent on the mining of coal.

    When coal-based fuels are phased out and coal mines closed, the impact on people in the coal value chain, including these vulnerable communities and economies that are built around coal mines, will be significant.

    A just transition also involves the reskilling and upskilling of people reliant on coal for their livelihood to ensure they remain productive members of society who contribute to the economy. The timing and funding of skills development initiatives are still up for debate.

    Funding the commitments

    Climate resilience is something all countries are looking to implement, but countries in Africa have unique challenges as well as unique resources and strengths that we need to play to. During COP27 the concept of carbon credit markets and carbon offset schemes emerged, which would allow companies to buy carbon credits to offset their own emissions.

    This would not only open up a potential market for carbon offset projects and investment opportunities for developing countries, it would also help to channel resources into projects that deliver real benefits.

    However, once again the issue of transition reaches beyond transition to transforming African economies. This starts with access to clean energy. The Nairobi Declaration proposes new financing mechanisms to help countries in Africa unlock funding for transition and promote sustainable use of resources to help the region contribute toward global decarbonisation.

    One of the declarations from the Climate Summit in Kenya included a call for developed countries to honour their commitment to provide $100 billion in annual climate finance, as promised 14 years ago at the Copenhagen conference. Furthermore, it included proposals for new debt relief and restructuring interventions and instruments such as extension of sovereign debt tenor and inclusion of a 10-year grace period.

    COP28 will need to see developed countries make good on their funding commitments, while Africa moves forward with an aligned strategy to ensure just transition without leaving anybody behind.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rand Merchant Bank.

    SOURCE
    Rand Merchant Bank