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  • Embracing the Evolving Landscape of AI and Digital Transformation

    Embracing the Evolving Landscape of AI and Digital Transformation

    By: Mohammed Abu

    A three-day Wealth Masters Group’s Residential Training Event-Executive Leadership Programme in AI that is being hosted on campus by the University of Kent, United Kingdom, is scheduled to take place from the 2nd-5th June,2025.

    The event is being held against the background of today’s fast-paced and increasingly complex business environment, that leaves leaders, business owners, entrepreneurs and start-ups challenged to navigate unprecedented disruption, drive innovation, and integrate cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their organizations.

    To stay competitive and maintain strategic leadership, executives must not only excel in traditional leadership roles but also, embrace the evolving landscape of AI and digital transformation.

    Three-Day Training Session

    To this end, the 3-day immersive training is specifically designed for these leaders, providing a comprehensive understanding of leadership, business innovation, and AI integration.

    Through a blend of expert insights, practical case studies, interactive workshops, and real-world applications, the program equips leaders with the skills and strategies needed to drive organizational change, foster innovation, and leverage AI for future growth.

    Throughout the program, participants will engage with thought leaders, collaborate with peers, and reflect on their roles as visionary leaders driving the future of business.

    Expected Output

    By the end of this training, these leaders will be empowered with the tools, strategies, and foresight to lead their organizations through the next era of innovation and AI-driven transformation.

    Course Programme

    Day 1:

    Leadership in a Disruptive World: Transformational Leadership and Adaptive Decision-Making in the Era of Disruption

    Day 2:

    Driving Business Innovation for Competitive Advantage: Business Model Innovation, Strategy, and Competitive Positioning in the AI Age

    Day 3:

    Artificial Intelligence for Business Transformation: Applications of AI in    Business, Ethical Implications, and Future Trends

    Course Objectives

    Leadership Mastery:  you will understand advanced leadership techniques to navigate disruption and lead transformation effectively.

    Innovation Strategy: you will learn to design and implement innovative business models that leverage cutting-edge technology.

    AI Integration: you will understand the potential and risks of AI in decision-making and business strategy.

    Ethical Leadership: You will be equipped to apply ethical principles to AI adoption and business innovation.

    Future Preparedness: You will possess foresight into the future of work and leadership in an AI-driven world.

    Tailored for Executives: Your scheduling will become flexible and focused on high-level strategy; it’s crafted to elevate your leadership capabilities.

    Expert-Led Curriculum: You will be taught by Seasoned professionals in the field and AI thought leaders. The curriculum combines practical insights with the latest research.

    Certificate of Completion: You will gain certificate that highlights your expertise in leading organisations in the Age of AI

    Who Can Attend?

    Senior Executives and Business Leaders, Mid-Level Managers

    Entrepreneurs and Founders Professionals in Technology and Strategy Roles. Anyone Interested in Leading in the Age of AI

    Registration Fees & Deadline

    Early bird registration – until 30 April 2025 = £1,786.25

    From 1 May = Registration Fees = £2,159.38

    Your registration fee includes:

    4 Nights Ensuite Accommodation

    Breakfast, Lunch & Tea/Coffee

    All presentation Notes / Course Materials

    Program Certificates & Evening Reception with Drinks

    Tour around Kent

    The final deadline for registrations is Friday 23 May.

    Accommodation

    Four nights Bed & Breakfast accommodation in a single en-suite bedroom, is included within your registration

    Payment

    All registrations must be paid in full at time of booking by debit or credit card. We do not have the facility to accept purchase orders or invoices for payment.

    Contact Information

    For payment, registration or accommodation queries please contact eventregistrations@kent.ac.uk

    For conference content queries, please contact Benjamin Acheampong: benjamin@wealthmastersgroup.com

    Wealth Masters Group Website: http://www.wealthmastersgroup.com

    Post Training Session Exploration of Garden of England

    Participants are encouraged to take some time off after the session and explore the Garden of England. Kent and Canterbury offer diverse tourism attraction sites covering eco and monumental tourism.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Resetting Ghana’s Economy to break the Loans and Aid Dependency Jinx

    Resetting Ghana’s Economy to break the Loans and Aid Dependency Jinx

    By: Mohammed Abu

    Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama in Accra,Thursday,emphasized the importance of backing up good policies with proactiveness on the part of the part of all national stakeholders  in other to  realise  the much desired change in the economic situation of the country.

    “This is a defining moment, but policies alone, no matter how well-couched, will not change our reality—action will” adding, “As your president, I am taking the necessary actions to create growth opportunities and enhance our economic independence”

    President Mahama was delivering his speech to mark the 68th  Independence Anniversary Celebrations at the Office of the President this year instead of holding the event at the Independence park or Black Star Square.

    This, President Mahama explained, was intended to save cost in holding the  annual most important and celebrated event given the economic circumstances the country currently finds herself.

    President Mahama called on young Ghanaians to step up, seize opportunities  being created by his administration and contribute to building a self-sufficient nation as Ghana’s economic future is in their hands.

    Proclaiming self-reliance President noted, while marching straight to the doors of donor agencies, begging bowl in hand, is meaningless.

    His administration he said, is formulating policies based on fiscal discipline and living within our means to break this cycle of dependence and reset our economy while  also striving to expand the country’s  economy to yield prosperity for all.

    “We are working to implement the 24-hour economy program to ensure that our economy never sleeps. This will allow us to create the necessary job expansion, boost productivity, increase our export capacity and trade footprint, and reduce our need for foreign aid”.

    Opportunities

    USD10 Billion Big Push Fund.

    The US$10 billion Big Push Initiative President Mahama disclosed, will also modernize infrastructure, create jobs, and stimulate local industries, ensuring that our development is driven from within rather than funded from outside.

    Agriculture

    Agriculture, President Mahama noted, remains our biggest opportunity to reduce import dependence. With over US$2 billion spent annually on food imports, the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA) is structured to strengthen local agribusiness and ensure food security.

    Local Food Production Self Sufficiency Interventions 

    The Feed Ghana Programme he further noted,will drive mass food production and stabilize prices. At the same time, the Poultry Farm-to-Table Initiative will boost domestic production and processing to directly address our 95% reliance on imported poultry.

    ‘The success of these policies depends on active citizen participation, particularly from young people. The AgriNext Programme will equip 30,000 youth with land, training, and agribusiness opportunities”.

     Farming Inputs and Logistics Support

    Farmer Service Centres in every district President Mahama said ,will provide access to mechanization, quality seeds, and fertilizers to boost local food production.

     

  • Ghana’s National Economic Dialogue ends in Accra with Key Policy Recommendations

    Ghana’s National Economic Dialogue ends in Accra with Key Policy Recommendations

    Story: Mohammed Abu

    Ghana’s two-day National Economic Dialogue has ended in the country’s  capital City of Accra with recommendations bordering  on  a number of key issues

    Monetary Policy

    In other to strengthen monetary policy operations and effectiveness, it was recommended that coordination between the Ministry of Finance and Bank of Ghana be enhanced so as to ensure fiscal and monetary policy alignment. Then also, the Bank of Ghana should work with key stakeholders to integrate Fintech/liquidity transactions into overall banking sector liquidity system.

    Foreign Exchange Markets

    In other to improve the operation of foreign exchange markets, a review of the foreign exchange regime to support exchange rate stability as well as well as, strengthening the regulation of forex bureaus and eliminate illegal foreign exchange markets were recommended.

    Banking and Financial System

    For strengthening the banking system and financial intermediation, recapitalization of the Bank of Ghana, conduction of feasibility study and development of the regulatory framework for non-interest banking (Islamic financing), prioritization of the improvement of Ghana’s sovereign rating, the improvement of the efficiency of institutions relevant for perfecting collaterals and the limitation of political interference in the operations of the banks, were recommended.

    President John Dramani Mahama in a Keynote address to open the two-day event on Monday, assured that he has the political will to see through all the reforms that would be pro­posed at the end of the National Economic Dialogue underway in Accra.

    President Mahama said consensus building and consultation would be the hallmark of this administra­tion because “I believe that all of us as Ghanaians have a role to play in the development of our dear nation”.

    President Mahama said it was time to col­lectively build a resilient, competitive and robust economy that worked for all citizens.

    “The time for transformation is now. Let us embrace our economic transformation and unlock the full potential of our beloved country. Let us work together to build a resilient, competitive and a prosperous Ghana,” President Mahama stressed.

    Led by the President and held under the theme, “Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together.” discussions centered on macroeconomic stability, economic transformation, infrastructure development, structural reforms, private sector growth, and governance.

    President Mahama also stressed the importance of transparency in government procurement, calling for an end to the overuse of single-source contracts.

    “Single-sourced procurement must be rare, not the norm,” he declared, signaling a policy shift towards competitive bidding and fiscal accountability.

    Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson on his part, warned that, Ghana’s economic crisis is still unfolding and will require significant sacrifices from all citizens.

    “The full length of the crisis is still unravelling by the day. The situation requires significant sacrifice from all of us,” he noted.

    Dr. Forson also disclosed that almost all state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are in financial distress, from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB).

    The presenters, line-up included, Mr. Leslie Dwight Mensah, Prof. Ebo Turkson, Mrs. Abena Osei-Poku, Mr. David Ofosu-Dorte, Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, and Mr. Franklin Cudjoe, who shared insights and policy recommendations.

    The discussions were guided by expert moderators, including Governor of the Bank of Ghana under the erstwhile Kufour administration Dr. Paul Acquah, Dr. Edward K. Brown, Mr. Joe Mensah, Mr. Felix Addo, Prof. K. K. Sarpong, and Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey of Institute for Democratic Governance(IDEG).

    Aimed at ensuring that diverse voices from the public and private sectors contribute meaningfully to shaping the country’s financial future, the dialogue centered on crucial thematic areas, including, Achieving Sustainable Macroeconomic Stability, Promoting Economic Transformation, Advancing Infrastructure Development Implementing Structural Reforms, Ensuring Private Sector-Led Growth and Restoring Good Governance and Combating Corruption

     

     

     

     

     

  • A New Dawn for African Sports: Unlocking Transformational Investment in Community Sports Infrastructure

    A New Dawn for African Sports: Unlocking Transformational Investment in Community Sports Infrastructure

    LAGOS, Nigeria, March 4, 2025/ — The Sports Africa Investment Summit 2025 has marked a pivotal moment in Africa’s journey toward sports industrialisation and economic transformation.

    Over two electrifying days in Lagos, the summit, hosted by Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte (www.SportNigeria.ng) in partnership with the Office of the Presidency and the National Sports Commission, brought together a powerful coalition of stakeholders—government representatives, UNESCO, AFREXIM Bank, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), investors, and sports industry leaders—all united by a shared vision: to unlock the immense potential of sports as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and community development across Africa.

    At the heart of this historic gathering was the signing of a groundbreaking technical agreement between the Abia State Government and Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte, paving the way for Africa’s first-ever Sports Special Economic Zone (SSEZ).

    This visionary initiative will transform Abia State into a global hub for sports goods manufacturing, leveraging Aba’s legendary craftsmanship, entrepreneurial spirit, and industrial excellence.

    Aligned with Nigeria’s Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the SSEZ is poised to become a beacon of innovation, trade, and industrialisation, creating thousands of jobs and empowering local businesses.

    According to Hon. Nwaobilor Ananaba, Commissioner for Sports, Abia State, “The Special Sports Economic Zone is a game-changer for Abia State and Nigeria at large. Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR we are committed to driving a collective agenda that will transform Abia into the premier hub for sports goods manufacturing and infrastructure development.

    This project is a bold step toward job creation, youth empowerment, and economic diversification, and we will work tirelessly to ensure its full realisation with our partners, Sports Nigeria.”

    The summit’s robust discussions underscored the pressing need for innovative financing models, capacity-building initiatives, and diaspora engagement to sustain long-term development.

    According to Mr. Chinedum Chijioke, Chair of the Abia State Investment Office, “The signing of this agreement marks the beginning of a transformative journey to attract global investments and build an ecosystem where sports, commerce, and industry thrive together. We are dedicated to fostering strategic partnerships that will actualise this vision and create lasting economic impact.”

    The summit also saw the formal launch of Spaces 4 Sports, Sport Nigeria’s flagship initiative designed to address Africa’s sports infrastructure deficit at the grassroots level.

    This cluster-based model will integrate community sports hubs across the continent, providing accessible facilities that encourage mass participation in sports, particularly within the education sector.
    By embedding sports into daily life, Spaces 4 Sports aims to achieve a 50% increase in mass sports participation, enhance youth engagement, and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa Union Agenda 2063, using sports as a catalyst for education, health, and gender inclusivity.

    The message from the summit was clear: Africa’s sports economy is ready to take off, but it will require bold investments, visionary leadership, and strategic partnerships to realise its full potential.

    This point was emphasised by Ms. Nkechi Obi, CEO of Sport Nigeria Ltd, “Sports is more than entertainment—it’s an industry, a business, and a force for economic transformation. Abia’s Sports Special Economic Zone is the first of its kind, but it won’t be the last. We are setting a precedent that others will follow.”

    The private sector has a critical role to play in bridging the infrastructure gap and unlocking the industry’s potential. With sports serving as a multi-billion-dollar industry globally, Africa is uniquely positioned to harness its youthful population, raw talent, and market demand. Strategic investment in sports infrastructure will not only drive economic growth but also create employment, boost tourism, and elevate Africa’s global sporting competitiveness.

    Mr. Yahaya Maikori, Vice Chairman of Sport Nigeria, notes that “We don’t need more talk—we need action. This SSEZ is our action plan. The world is watching, and investors are ready. Now is the time.”

    The foundation has been laid. The partnerships are forming. Now is the time for investors, DFIs, and Africa-focused development organisations to step forward and seize this unprecedented opportunity. The future of African sports is not on the sidelines—it’s in the factories, the training centers, the research labs, and the boardrooms.

    The call to action is clear: Invest in Africa’s sports future. Build the infrastructure. Empower the youth. Transform communities. Together, we can change the game.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Sport Nigeria Ltd.

    For investment inquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact: 

    Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte
    Email: sais@sportnigeria.ng ; info@sportnigeria.ng
    Website: www.SportNigeria.ng

    Media Contact: 
    Sport Nigeria Communications
    Email: sais@sportnigeria.ng
    Phone: 0706 203 8705

    SOURCE
    Sport Nigeria Ltd

  • President Ramkalawan Inaugurates Vista Heights Estate in Glacis

    Under the theme “Peace and Harmony,” President Wavel Ramkalawan presided over the official inauguration of the Vista Heights Estate in the Glacis district yesterday afternoon.

    The project, a joint initiative with the Qatar Fund in collaboration with the Government of Seychelles, commenced in September 2023 and was completed in December 2024, with a total investment of SCR 11.8 million.

    The new residential development comprises 12 two-bedroom apartments, providing homes for 12 families from the district.

    A key highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by President Ramkalawan and the Minister for Land and Housing, Billy Rangasamy, followed by the symbolic handing over of keys to the new residents. The estate also features a spacious parking area, a children’s playground, and a volleyball court.

    In her welcoming address, Regina Esparon, Member of the National Assembly for Glacis, congratulated the new tenants and urged them to protect their new homes:
    “Respect your new compound against vandalism, anti-social and illegal activities.”

    In his address, the Minister for Land and Housing Mr. Billy Ramgasamy expressed that it was “a delightful honour to inaugurate the new housing estate in the Glacis District after 20 years of no housing development.” Explaining the inspiration behind the name Vista Heights, he referenced its location next to the former Vista Do Mar Hotel.

    “This is clear evidence of the Government’s commitment to ensure affordable housing for its people,” Minister Rangasamy stated, urging residents to uphold strong community values and responsibly manage their home repayments. He expressed hope that the new estate would serve as a model neighborhood, fostering harmony and positive social behaviour.

    The ceremony also featured a poetry recital and musical performance by students from Glacis Primary School, reflecting on the values of peace and community.

    This latest development underscores the Seychelles government’s continued efforts to enhance housing infrastructure through strategic international partnerships.

    Among the distinguished attendees were Minister for Internal Affairs Errol Fonseka, Minister for Local Government and Community Affairs Rose Marie Hoareau, Hon. Clifford Andre, Member of the National Assembly for Anse Aux Pins, Principal Secretary for Land, Mr Denis Barbe, Chief Operating Officer of SIA Keith Arnephy, district administrators, officials from the Ministry of Land and Housing, representatives from the Seychelles Infrastructure Agency, the new residents of Vista Heights Estate, and other esteemed guests.

    SOURCE

    State House,Seychelles 

     

  • TradeTech Forum Returns for its Second Edition at AIM Congress 2025

    TradeTech Forum Returns for its Second Edition at AIM Congress 2025

    Abu Dhabi, UAE, 4 March: The TradeTech Forum, hosted by the World Economic Forum (WEF) will return for its second edition at  AIM Congress, set to be held on April 8, 2025, alongside the ongoing AIM Congress.

    With over 400 of the world’s foremost trade leaders and experts attending the forum this year’s TradeTech Forum aims to extend and expand the conversation on leveraging technology to transform global trade and investment.

    With a mission to explore how emerging technologies are impacting and shifting the norms of international trade, the impact on sustainability and fostering inclusivity, this year’s theme “TradeTech Transition: Evaluating the Present, Envisioning the Future”, will bring together innovators, policymakers and key global leaders into one forum.

    The TradeTech Forum this year continues with an updated and far more comprehensive agenda, with plenary sessions involving key experts of the industry, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities aimed to offer actionable insights to all attendees.

    H.E. Dr. Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, UAE, will officially open the forum. Speaking on the impact of the forum to the UAE and the world, Dr. Al Zeyoudi said: “Technology can revolutionize global supply chains at every stage, creating opportunities to expand international trade.

    It enables less developed countries and small and medium-sized enterprises to participate more effectively and fairly in the global trading system, while enhancing security and transparency. The TradeTech Forum is a key platform to advancing these benefits, convening global trade leaders to explore leveraging technology to make supply chains smarter, more sustainable, and inclusive.”

    H.E. Al Zeyoudi added: “As a nation at the forefront of technological innovation and global trade facilitation, this platform exemplifies our commitment to fostering collaboration and harnessing digital technologies to drive sustainable, inclusive growth in global trade. We look forward to welcoming participants from around the world to chart the next chapter of TradeTech advancement together.”

    His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said: “As a key node on international supply chains and a global magnet for talents, businesses, investments, Abu Dhabi continues to develop trade facilitation solutions, and employ advanced technologies and methods such as AI and Blochian to enable free and fair trade and exchange of goods, services, and innovations.

    The TradeTech forum in Abu Dhabi provides a suitable platform to discuss ideas, challenges, and explore opportunities, devising innovative solutions that will shape the future of global trade”.

    The agenda for the forum packs many multi-disciplinary sessions, with the day starting off with the TradeTech Face-Off, an engaging breakfast debate featuring two contrasting visions on the future of TradeTech, where attendees will have to take a stance to what they believe the future of TradeTech holds.

    This dialogue will expand on to topics such as smart customs and how AI will revolutionize trade, a topic explored in depth in the latest TradeTech report “Artificial Intelligence for Efficiency, Sustainability and Inclusivity in TradeTech” just launched at the Annual Meeting at Davos.

    Plenary panels will continue throughout the day, discussing key topics such as the outcomes of the 2025 TradeTech Report, the regulatory sandbox outcomes in trade finance, and the imperatives for investment in trade innovation.

    A series of interactive workshops have been designed to create engaging deep-dives into AI-driven transformations in supply chains, trade finance, and logistics. In addition, the attendees can expect exclusive networking opportunities, with dedicated spaces for bilateral meetings, investor collaborations, and knowledge exchange.

    Hosted alongside AIM Congress 2025 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), the TradeTech Forum is poised to set the global agenda for innovation in trade and investment, fostering cross-border collaboration and long-term economic resilience. “As a global collective, we must urgently transition into action mode, prioritizing immediate steps that drive substantial impact.

    Embracing the latest technological advancements and fostering thought leadership in TradeTech, alongside exploring regulatory adaptations, and supporting innovative startups, is essential to create a more efficient, sustainable, and equitable trade landscape.

    This is what we do at the TradeTech Global Initiative and why we convene this high-level forum.”, shared Tim Stekkinger, Head, TradeTech Initiative, World Economic Forum.

     

     

  • Top Reasons to Invest in Ghana’s Mining Industry

    Top Reasons to Invest in Ghana’s Mining Industry

    ACCRA, Ghana, March 4, 2025/ — Ghana’s mining industry stands as a key driver of economic growth – with GDP projections reaching 1.5% by 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4klB6s7) – fueled by expanding opportunities within the sector.
    A stable political and business environment, coupled with the discovery of new mineral reserves and a well-established mining ecosystem, Ghana is an attractive investment destination for global mining institutions.

    The upcoming Mining in Motion Summit, taking place in Accra on June 2 – 4 will further highlight lucrative investment opportunities, connecting Ghanaian stakeholders with international financiers and technology providers to enhance collaboration across the mining value chain.

    Rich Mineral Resources 

    Ghana leads Africa in gold production and ranks 6th globally. In 2024 alone, artisanal miners contributed over $5 billion in foreign exchange earnings, underscoring the vast potential of Ghana’s gold sector. Ongoing industrial-scale projects like Goldstone’s Homase Mine Expansion, Cardinal Namdini Mine and Newmont’s Ahafo North Project continue to expand investment opportunities in the gold industry.

    In addition to gold, Ghana is the world’s 4th-largest manganese producer, presenting attractive prospects for investors seeking exposure to high-value minerals.

    The country’s untapped reserves of lithium, iron ore and bauxite also offer substantial growth potential as the demand for these minerals expand owing to the energy transition.

    Strong, Investor-Friendly Regulatory Framework 

    Ghana introduced incentives including as tax breaks, customs duty exemptions and foreign ownership rights, attracting significant foreign direct investment. For example, Atlantic Lithium secured $6.7 million to accelerate the Ewoyaa Lithium Project, while Asante Gold committed $525 million to expand its Bibiani and Chirano Mines.

    Policies such as the Green Minerals Policy (2023) streamline entry for critical mineral investors, while the Equipment Tracking Regulations (2020) simplify equipment procurement and transportation processes for mining projects.

    Skilled Workforce Availability 

    Ghana’s mining history has fostered a highly skilled workforce, making it easier for international investors to recruit trained personnel for their operations.

    Partnerships with global institutions, including the World Bank, have led to initiatives like the Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project, which equips miners with modern, sustainable practices.

    Additionally, programs focused on apprenticeship, mentorship and capacity-building continue to enhance the local workforce. AngloGold Ashanti graduated 1,010 apprentices in October 2023 and added 140 more in February 2024, supporting Ghana’s local content development.

    Infrastructure Readiness 

    Ghana’s infrastructure readiness further strengthens its appeal as a mining investment hub. Recent developments include the inauguration of the Royal Ghana Gold Refinery in Accra in August 2024, which allows for local gold processing, streamlining operations and boosting export revenues through the sale of refined gold.

    The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in collaboration with testing laboratories company Intertek launched a new testing laboratory (https://apo-opa.co/3FeePMx) in Tarkwa, in 2023.

    The laboratory offers faster mineral sample analysis for over 500 exploration projects and 23 large-scale operations. Furthermore, the continuous modernization of the Tema and Takoradi ports has improved export logistics, ensuring that Ghana’s minerals reach international markets efficiently.

    Amid these investor-friendly conditions established by Ghana, Mining in Motion will further unveil burgeoning and lucrative opportunities within the West African nation’s mining sector. The summit will serve as a platform to connect stakeholders, foster partnerships, and facilitate deal signings that drive growth and investment.

    Stay informed about the latest advancements, network with industry leaders, and engage in critical discussions on key issues impacting ASGM and medium to large scale mining in Ghana. Secure your spot at the Mining in Motion 2025 Summit by visiting www.MininginMotionSummit.com. For sponsorship opportunities or delegate participation, contact Sales@ashantigreeninitiative.org. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    SOURCE

    Energy Capital & Power

  • Toward an Energy Hub: Ghana Commits to Accelerated Investment Drive

    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, February 27, 2025/ — Ghana is positioning itself as a major hub for energy investment, with the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition pledging to attract key players from the oil, gas and renewable energy sectors.

    On the sidelines of International Energy Week in London, Ghana’s Minister of Energy and Green Transition John Abdulai Jinapor and the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) – the voice of Africa’s energy sector – emphasized Ghana’s readiness to welcome investment and create a favorable business environment for foreign and regional firms.

    During the meeting, the AEC also pledged to conduct a working visit to Ghana, focusing on identifying investment and collaboration opportunities.

    Together, the AEC and the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition aim to drive growth and development in the country’s energy sector, promoting fiscal frameworks that reinforce Ghana’s position as an attractive destination for oil, gas and energy investors.

    As part of these efforts, a dedicated “Invest in Ghana” Forum will be held at African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 in Cape Town, where the AEC will coordinate with the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), the National Petroleum Authority, the Petroleum Commission and private sector players to position Ghana as the go-to destination for oil and gas investments from both G20 and non-G20 countries.

    With oil reserves of 1.1 billion barrels and gas reserves of 2.1 trillion cubic feet (World Bank), Ghana has committed to increasing production through enhanced investment in exploration and field development programs. The country has more than 17 oil and gas projects scheduled for development by 2027, and recent and upcoming regulatory reforms are expected to further bolster investment and foreign participation in the sector.

    Notably, the country’s Gas Master Plan – a market growth strategy through 2040 – incentivizes capital and technology deployment across the gas value chain, while upcoming fiscal reforms are expected to stimulate spending in the oil market.

    These reforms include planned amendments to laws requiring companies to allocate at least 15% of each project to the state as free and carried interest, as well as more flexible oil royalty regimes.

    In collaboration, the AEC and the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition seek to ensure Ghana continues to attract the right kind of investment, with additional reforms encouraging operators to expand their portfolios and new players to seize opportunities in the country.

    Several major operators are already active in Ghana’s energy market. Energy giant Eni, for example, has a presence across exploration, refining and chemicals sectors. The company is involved in the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) exploration project and the offshore CTP 4 block. OCTP serves as an integrated project for developing oil and gas fields, featuring the Agyekum Kufuor FPSO. Independent energy company Tullow Oil is also a key player in Ghana, with production from the Jubilee and TEN fields amounting to 100,000 bpd and 10,100 bpd, respectively.

    In partnership with Kosmos Energy, Tullow Oil began production at the Jubilee South East project in 2023, with three new wells brought onstream in Q1 2024.

    Other major projects include the Pecan Phase 1A Upstream Project – developed by global energy firm Aker Energy, GNPC, Russian multinational Lukoil and maritime engineering and energy company Bulk Ship & Trade – and the Ntomme Far West Development. Pecan Phase 1A is currently in the approval stage, with production scheduled for 2025, while Ntomme is in the pre-feasibility stage, with progress made towards drilling the first well. Energy major TotalEnergies is also active, operating several petroleum depots in the country.

    In the downstream sector, Ghana is working to develop an integrated petroleum hub – the first of its kind in West Africa.

    The government finalized agreements in June 2024 to develop the initial phase of the project, supported by funding from the TCP-UIC private sector consortium. This multi-phase development will include three refineries, five petrochemical plants, storage tanks, jetties, a port and associated LNG and logistics infrastructure.

    “These projects affirm that Ghana is open for business. The country has been proactive in establishing regulatory frameworks that support million-dollar investments, and with further reform, Ghana is poised to become a leading energy hub in West Africa.

    The AEC will continue to support the country as it pursues this goal and looks forward to a productive working visit ahead,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    SOURCE
    African Energy Chamber

  • African Leaders Unite to Mobilize African Investment and Financing for Implementing Agenda 2063

    African Leaders Unite to Mobilize African Investment and Financing for Implementing Agenda 2063

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, February 27, 2025/ — On the sidelines of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, African Heads of State, Government and Business Leaders convened for a Presidential Breakfast Dialogue to address the continent’s financing and investment gaps. The event was held under the theme “Africa at the Forefront: Mobilizing African Investment and Financing for Implementing Agenda 2063”.

    The dialogue, which was hosted by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana and Champion on African Union Financial Institutions, in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI), reaffirmed the continent’s commitment to accelerating self-reliant, sustainable economic development.

    In his keynote address, President Mahama emphasized the urgency of strengthening Africa’s financial independence through domestic resource mobilization, concessional financing, and strategic public-private partnerships. “Africa must harness its own financial and investment capacities to drive the transformative vision of Agenda 2063. We cannot continue to rely on external financing mechanisms that do not align with our long-term development goals,” he stated.

    Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General, World Trade Organization (WTO) emphasized the need for Africans to take charge of their own development by shifting mindsets and strengthening financial self-sufficiency.

    She Said, “The Africa Club is a crucial step toward looking inward and harnessing our own potential. However, we need to focus on four key priorities for Africa’s financial and economic transformation: Firstly, strengthening African financial institutions – If we are to finance our continent’s development, we must capitalize our own financial institutions, including national development banks, ensuring they have the resources to support Africa’s needs.

    Secondly, let’s address debt challenges to attract investment – we must focus on attracting and retaining investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI), and implementing coordinated strategies to leverage equity financing. Instead of relying on aid, Africa should push for partnerships that channel financial resources into investments.

    Thirdly, let’s leverage domestic resources – with over $250 billion in pension funds on the continent, we must tap into these resources for development. Strengthening our capital markets, integrating African financial institutions, and utilizing diaspora bonds can significantly boost Africa’s financial resilience.

    Lastly, let’s drive trade and economic growth – sustainable financing hinges on Africa’s ability to grow its economies, trade more, and add value to its products. Without economic expansion, the resources needed to bridge financing gaps will remain out of reach.”

    Speaking during the dialogue, H.E. Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, highlighted Africa’s immense potential and the critical role of collaboration. “This is an exciting time for Africa, which has been stretching and renewing itself economically, politically, and socially in recent years. Only the grumpiest pessimists will bet against this new era of ‘Africa Time’ for its economic and social transformation as envisioned under Agenda 2063.”

    Dr. Nsanzabaganwa urged investors to seize the opportunities within Africa’s evolving economic landscape. “You will be right to have faith and believe in investing in Africa. The continent is perceived as the ‘new frontier,’ the ‘future paradise’ that sharpens a race to markets by an increasing number of investors.”

    Speaking on behalf of AAMFI, Prof. Benedict O. Oramah, Chairperson of AAMFI’s Governing Council and President of Afreximbank, underscored the significance of African financial institutions leading the charge in development finance. “AAMFI represents Africa’s collective financial strength, and through coordinated action, we will mobilize resources at scale to achieve Agenda 2063,” he stated.

    He further emphasized Africa’s need for financial solidarity in debt resolution: “We have developed a platform that will make it possible to jointly invest in projects that are impactful to the continent. There is no reason why the bridge across Congo Brazzaville and Congo Kinshasa should not be built, the cost is a mere US$500 million; there is no reason why railways cannot be built across Africa, at best they cost about US$1-2Bn. We cannot call for a reform of the international financial architecture on weak legs, no one will listen to us if they view us as mere beggars. We must rely on our own institutions and use this platform to leverage our individual and collective resources to transform our continent. Let’s strengthen our alliance to meet our set objectives.”

    The dialogue featured a high-level panel of distinguished leaders and finance experts, including: Dr. Donald Kaberuka, African Union (AU) High Representative for Financing of the Union and the Peace Fund; Samaila Zubairu, 1st Vice Chairperson, AAMFI and President & CEO of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC); Dr. Corneille Karekezi, 2nd Vice Chairperson AAMFI and Group Managing Director & CEO, African Reinsurance Corporation; Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa, UNDP; and H.E. Amb. Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals, African Union Commission.

    Discussions centered on innovative strategies for mobilizing African capital, strengthening financial institutions, and leveraging the role of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AMFIs) in financing critical development sectors such as infrastructure, industrialization, and trade.

    The event also witnessed special investment announcements:

    • African Trade Transformation Fund (ATTF), a groundbreaking USD5 billion concessional finance window initiative by Afreximbank to provide concessional financing to unlock new opportunities for African businesses and governments.
    • Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) introduced the Catalytic Capital Replenishment Fund to bridge the housing and urban infrastructure gap in Africa which is reported to be a 53-million-unit deficit requiring $1.3 trillion to bridge.
    • The African Reinsurance Corporation (Africa Re) Group has pledged $1 million to the African Union Peace Fund. Additionally, the Corporation donated $500,000 to the Africa CDC during the COVID-19 pandemic and has now authorized the use of the balance for Mpox response efforts. The Group Managing Director further stated that Africa Re has committed 2% of its net profits to the African Re Foundation, which will allocate funds to support various initiatives across the continent, including disaster risk financing.
    • The African Solidarity Fund (ASF) established two key partnerships: a $320 million Guarantee Line to enhance access to housing credit and a $240 million Credit Line Guarantee to support women and youth empowerment, fostering entrepreneurship in the WAEMU.
    • Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) launched a Debt for Equity initiative to support the capitalization of African Multilateral Financial Institutions by mobilizing resources from the Arab world towards sub-Saharan Africa.

    African Heads of State & Government, including leaders from Angola, Nigeria, Mauritania, Rwanda, Zambia, Libya, Kenya, Cote d’Ivoire, Benin, and Equatorial Guinea, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Africa’s financial ecosystem and supporting the growth of AAMFIs as key instruments of economic transformation.

    The event concluded with a unified call to action for African governments, financial institutions, and the private sector to strengthen coordination and build strategic partnerships to accelerate Africa’s development by His Excellency Ambassador Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade and Industry at the African Union Commission.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

    For further information, please contact:
    communications@aamfi.africa

  • Young Advocate and Nobel Prize Nominee Zuriel Oduwole Meets President Ramkalawan

    Young Advocate and Nobel Prize Nominee Zuriel Oduwole Meets President Ramkalawan

    President Wavel Ramkalawan, accompanied by First Lady Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, welcomed Ms. Zuriel Oduwole to State House yesterday morning for a courtesy visit.

    Ms. Oduwole, 22, co-founder of the Dususu Foundation, is a globally recognized advocate for peace, youth empowerment, education, and gender equality. She was recently nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.

    Her visit to Seychelles follows an invitation extended by President Ramkalawan in September last year, aimed at inspiring and empowering young Seychellois. As part of her mission, Ms. Oduwole, accompanied by her sister, Ms. Aziliah Oduwole, and their father, conducted a filmmaking workshop attended by approximately 50 young Seychellois participants.

    President Ramkalawan expressed his appreciation for Ms. Oduwole’s efforts and commended her initiative to uplift and empower the youth. In response, Ms. Oduwole thanked the President for his warm invitation and shared insights from her engagement with Seychellois youth, emphasizing their potential to create a meaningful impact both locally and globally.

    Speaking to the press, Ms. Oduwole praised the ambition and promise of young Seychellois and also expressed her appreciation for the local cuisine. Reflecting on her Nobel Prize nomination, she described it as an unexpected honor for both herself and her family.

    “It’s important to understand that each of us has a voice. What we choose to do with that voice is our gift to the world,” she remarked, encouraging young people to embrace bold ambitions. “It is important to dream—dream big dreams, dream scary dreams that impact not only your life or your family but also your community and the entire world.”

    Also present at the meeting were the Minister for Youth, Sport and Family, Mrs. Marie-Celine Zialor, CEO of the Seychelles National Youth Council, Mr. Albert Duncan, and CEO of the National Arts Council, Mr. Jimmy Savy.

    SOURCE

    OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT