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  • Averting Inter-Ethnic War in Dagbon,Northern Ghana

    Your Royal Highnesses;
    Naa Bakpema Kari-Naa Abdulai Natogmah
    Naa Bapira Demon Naa Alhassan
    Naa Bapira Zangbalin-Naa
    Naa Yeba Ngan-dana
    Naa Bapira Gbungbali-Naa
    Saboba Naa Ubor Bowan John Sakojim IV
    Waapuli Naa
    Naalongni Naa Ubor Biniyam Collins IV
    Garimata Naa
    Nkpegu Naa Kunji Tamanja
    Kumakeek Naa Tangmee Majoriba
    The Security
    Elders, Chiefs and People of Mion Traditional Area
    Media

    Ladies and gentlemen:
    It is for peace that Your Royal Highnesses have paid a royal visit to me, my elders and the good people of Mion Traditional Area. Your visit isarightstep that traditional rulers must take to break the boundaries of our comfort and tradition to chart a path towards PEACE which is the most cherished need for our everyday normal functioning as a people.

    I am delighted that this step would speed up the clarion call for PEACE by the Yendi Peace Center, the REGSEC of Northern Region and the peoplewithinand without the Mion traditional enclave.Your Royal Highnesses, I understand you have paid a visit to our King and Overlord, N’dan Ya-Naa, from whom we all draw our powers and authority. I am sure we all agree that we would not allow anybody to disrespect the authority and reverence of our King and Lion of Dagbon.

    It is inlight of this that we as Divisional and Sub-Divisional Chiefs of Dagbon expect our people within our traditional jurisdictions to respect the authority of the Skins we occupy.

    Anybody, or group of people, be they Dagombas, Konkombas, Basaris, Chekosis, Fulanis etc who grossly display any act of insubordination to any of us aa Divisional and Sub-Divisional Chiefs are doing so to the King of Dagbon and we must rise up against such development.

    Your Royal Highnesses, permit me to explain to you the recent incident which nearly escalated into an inter-ethnic conflict.

    We all know Mion traditional jurisdiction stretches from the west bank of Kulkpini River through Kulkpini- Duli and Zogbei all the way to other settlements dotted over the area. As allodial Landowner for and on behalf of His MajestytheYa-Naa, I allocated a parcel of land for development at Zogbei. The developer was on site on Tuesday 6th August 2024.

    A group of youth whose population was several folds more than the total population of residents of Zogbei massed up to stop the developer from grading works on the allocated parcel of land. The population, I am told, were marshalled from nearby communities with the sole aim of fomenting trouble. I invited them and the Zogbei Residents to my palace to understand their concerns but the invitations were turned down.

    On the third occasion of invitation, the youth had issue a word for me that I should contact theMionKonkomba Chief who happens to be a sub-chief of my palace.

    When I invited the Mion Konkomba Chief to my Palace, his word was to the effect that neither him nor the Zogbei residents has any claim over that parcel of land and that those youth were only trying to “knock the head of some Konkombas and Dagombas”. This situation proved to me that this youth who wielded guns and machetes were nothing but rabble rousers with the sole aim of disrespecting not only my authority but that of my father, the King and Overlord of Dagbon.

    Even if they had any concerns, their refusal tomy invitations predisposed them as miscreants who should not be tolerated in any traditional area. Even if there were crops on thesaidland, the farmer could have demanded compensation and this would have been paid to them as we usually do.

    Upon my instruction to ensure that the grading work by the allottee is carried through, my palace guard swent to ensure the grading work goes through. It was in the process the marauded youth who had laid ambush in the distant bushes began targeting gunshots at my palace guards. My guards had the only option of retaliate in inequal or more measure to defend the grader and the operator.

    It is this altercation which has led to casualties. The intervention of the Yendi Police Division, the REGSEC, the Yendi Peace Center as well as the Overlord of Dagbon has been so timely that this Zogbei incident did not escalate into a Konkomba-Dagomba inter-ethnic clashes.

    I have since co-operated with these stakeholders because I do not fathom a situation where Dagombas and Konkombas could gointoawarsituation over petty issues such as what happened at Zogbei.

    Your Royal Highnesses, permit me to narrate to you how Zogbei became a settlement. When late Mion-Lana Ziblim was on the skin, a Konkomba elder by name Sallah was chased out from Bachaboriya because he was believed to be a wizard in that village. Sallah came to late Mion-lana Ziblim to appeal to him to settle at the current place known as Zogbei. This then was uninhabited farmlands belonging to some Dagombas from Mion and Yendi.

    lana. This bellicose attempt by these elites to radicalize some youthtoriseup against authorities are felt not only in the Mion area but other palaces. Ibelieve no traditional ruler would countenance a situation wherethehelperwould turn and be at the mercy of such radicalized youth. We needtofindlasting solution to the radicalization of the youth even in placeswherepeople can longer go to their farmlands. There is no doubt that this Zogbei incident had a potential of escalatinginto an inter-ethnic war situation.

    Thankfully, Konkombas in Yendi, Tamale, Zabzugu, Gusheigu and many other places have not been targetedbyDagombas. This emphasizes the point that this is an isolated case between some Konkomba youth and me in the Mion area. I understand some Konkombas elsewhere are destroying people’s farms. Caution should be made to them to stop this with immediate effect.

    I I wish to emphasize the point that i am fully committed to the PEACE we are all yearning for. I will do everything possible to work hand in hand with the major stakeholders including Your Royal Highnesses. The REGSEC, theYendi Peace Center with DAYA, KOYA and DF among other stakeholders have visited me to work hand-in-hand with us to ensure normalcy is restored.I believe one life lost is as though the whole of humanity is lost.

    I will make sure all people in my traditional area live together in PEACE and go about their farming activities without hindrance. While we pray for PEACE, we must pray that the rains which have stopped for about a month ago returns.

    Thank you.

    Editor’s Note: Published Unedited

     

     

  • Dagomba-Konkonba Peaceful Co-Existence Spans 300 Years

    Dagomba-Konkonba Peaceful Co-Existence Spans 300 Years

    Story: Abdul Razak Mohammed

    His Royal Majesty, ndan,Ya Naa Abukari I, the King of Dagbon (Dagomba Kingdom), Northern region of Ghana, says Dagombas and Konkombas have an age-long  good neighborliness, mutual respect and peaceful co-existence track record.

    This, he noted, spans a period of three hundred years until sadly and from nowhere, bad blood crept into their midst since the 1990s resulting into the first ever Dagbamba-Konkomba armed conflict.

    His Royal Majesty said humans as they are, cannot once a while, escape misunderstandings and conflicts and should they happen to encounter such, it takes cool and level headedness employing dialogue not use of arms, in other to find a resolution and restore peace once again.

    He therefore advised more interactions, and networking between Dagbamba and their Konkonba brethren in their efforts to repair the damages and reactivate the age-old peaceful co-existence they had once enjoined for centuries. Exposing of trouble mongers and enemies of peace from both sides for the law to take its course would also be prudent under the given circumstances he added.

    Dagbon’s King, also reminded the security authorities about his previous call on them to arrest and prosecute youth using social media to make posts content of which is intended to offend other ethnic groups, beat false war drums, create fear and panic and to heighten ethnic tension.

    Dagbamba and Konkonbas he noted, were one people, eat same food have similar cultural norms and values and should therefore build upon that to ensure sustainable peaceful co-existence between the two ethnic groups.

    The Ya Naa was speaking during the visit of a Konkonba-Dagomba peace delegation to the Gbewaa Royal Palace in Yendi the seat of Dagbon Kingship on Saturday.

    The delegation comprised members of Saboba, Wapuli and other Konkonba communities headed by His Royal Highness, the Paramount Chief of Saboba in the company of other Dagomba Paramount chiefs. The visit was as the byproduct of mutual consultation between the Konkonba side led by Saboba Paramount Chief,Saboba Naa Ubor Bowan John Sakojim IV.

    and the Dagomba side the Paramount Chief of Karaga,Naa Bakpema Kari-Naa Abdulai Natogmah

    His Royal Majesty appreciated the Paramount Chief of Saboba for the affirmative action that sought to nib in the bud the Zogbie menace which he said claimed seven lives, so it doesn’t escalate into another Dagbamba-Konkonba war.

    Touching on the issue of land the source of the Zogbie incident, His Royal Majesty didn’t mince words in saying that by the laws of the country he as King of Dagbon is the custodian of all lands in Dagbon which he holds by trust on behalf of the people of Dagbon.

    This, he said, had been categorically stated in the 1996 Kumasi Peace Accord signed between Dagombas and Konkombas after the most unfortunate first ever armed conflict between the two age-old neighbours.

    The various paramount chiefs are responsible for the oversight responsibility of lands under their various jurisdictions.

    His Royal Highness, Na Yeb Kug Na on his part, said that if a Dagomba and a Konkonba picks up a quarrel it should be treated as a quarrel between one Dagomba individual and another one Konkonba individual but not to be taken as a fight between the two tribes such that members from one tribe would just simply pick up guns and start killing each other leading to an inter-ethnic war as has become the sad practice today.

    Dagombas and Konkombas he intimated, were like the twin halves of  one splitted calabash in other words they are one and the same people

    His Royal Highness  also observed that land acquisition in Dagbon had laid down procedure which those interested in acquiring and utilizing land for any purpose, had to follow like all others do. Land acquisition through guns and spears are no more acceptable in this modern era.

    The District Chief Executive(DCE) of Yendi, Hon Abubakar who represented government said President Nana Akufo Addo’s government was following the peace efforts with keen interest the efforts being made towards addressing the Zogbie incident.

    The President he says also appreciates the peace efforts being pursued by  His Royal Majesty,ndan Yaa Naa Abukari I,since his coronation up till date.

    Hon Abubakar said President Nana Addo says he takes cognizance of the fact that, His Royal Majesty’s peace efforts is not limited to Dagbon alone,but it extends as  far as Nanum and Kpandai.

    The President,Hon Abubakar assed,also highly appreciates  His Royal Highness,the Paramount Chief of Saboba for his untiring and selfless efforts  to ensure that the Zogbie incident  doesn’t   escalate into another inter-ethnic war.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) Executive Retreat Explores Africa’s Oil & Gas (O&G) Future in the Age of the Energy Transition

    African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) Executive Retreat Explores Africa’s Oil & Gas (O&G) Future in the Age of the Energy Transition

    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, July 11, 2024/ — African intergovernmental organization the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) held an executive retreat to discuss the future of the African oil and gas sector amidst the ongoing energy transition on July 8-9.
    The retreat was in preparation for the opening ceremony of APPO’s 18th Executive Board Meeting which will be held today, Thursday June 11, where the Republic of the Congo’s Minister of Hydrocarbons Bruno Jean Itoua and APPO’s Alternate President will give an opening address.

    During the retreat, APPO member nations discussed strategies for embracing the energy transition, including leveraging centers of excellence, seminars and training programs to combat gas flaring, improve local content and promote research and development.

    Former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources Emmanual Ibikaichuku; Chief Academic Officer of Maarifa Education Olubayi Olubayi; and Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC) NJ Ayuk led thought-provoking conversations on African petroleum development and sustainable energy during the meeting.

    Building on its long-standing role in Africa’s oil and gas industry, APPO has been instrumental in pioneering financial solutions for the sector. APPO has played an integral part in Africa’s oil and gas industry since its establishment in 1987.

    The organization – alongside pan-African financial institution the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) -established the newly formed African Energy Bank (AEB) – an institution that will provide finance for African oil and gas projects.
    The organization recently announced that the banks headquarters will be situated in Abuja Nigeria, a decision that followed a meticulous review process. The goal of establishing the AEB was to support oil and gas projects that have been struggling with financing due to the ongoing energy transition as global financers shift investment towards alternative energy sources.
    The establishment of the AEB will also support Africa’s energy security by ensuring a reliable supply of energy from both traditional and renewable sources, contributing to a more diversified African energy sector.

    Continuing its collaborative efforts, APPO has strengthened its alliance with the AEC to further bolster Africa’s energy landscape.

    APPO continues to work hand-in-hand with the AEC, supporting existing initiatives and driving new ones forward. In January, APPO and the AEC signed a MoU in the Republic of the Congo to enhance Africa’s energy security and support local content development.
    This collaboration seeks to target African companies in the oil, gas and broader energy sector and encourage them to undertake larger projects. The collaboration further aims to stimulate technology-focused investments and partnerships across the industry, address obstacles and create an enabling environment for investors through the utilization of private sector potential and intra-African energy commerce.

    Moreover, APPO has also established a strong partnership with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). The collaboration between these two organizations aim to advance African oil and gas projects though shared expertise, coordinated efforts in market stabilization and investment opportunities.

    Recently, OPEC held the OPEC-Africa Energy Dialogue, in which APPO attended. The third High-Level Meeting of this dialogue emphasized the importance of cooperation between OPEC, APPO and the African Union Commission to cultivate a sustainable intra-African oil and gas industry. This partnership demonstrates APPO’s commitment to engaging in collaborative action to address Africa’s energy needs as well as advancing sustainable development on the continent.

    “APPO been a steadfast advocate for the continent’s oil and gas industry. Through its strategic initiatives and partnerships, such as the collaboration with Afreximbank to establish the AEB, APPO is not only addressing the financing challenges faced by the sector but also ensuring Africa’s energy security.

    By prioritizing traditional energy sources, APPO aims to support the continued development of oil and gas projects while simultaneously facilitating a balanced energy transition in Africa,” states NJ Ayuk.

    With major oil and gas projects underway in Africa –  such as the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim, Mozambique LNG, Uganda’s Lake Albert Development, Senegal’s Sangomar Field Development and others – APPO stands ready to support these initiatives by ensuring access to necessary financing.

    Additionally, the organization aims to facilitate technology-driven solutions while promoting practices that align with the continent’s energy transition goals.
    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Week (AEW).

    SOURCE
    African Energy Week (AEW)
  • West Africa Set for Downstream Boost with African Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA) Participation at MSGBC 2024

    West Africa Set for Downstream Boost with African Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA) Participation at MSGBC 2024

    DAKAR, Senegal, July 10, 2024/ — In support of the development and deployment of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) solutions throughout the continent, pan-African downstream organization the African Refiners and Distributors Association the UN-backed Global LPG Partnership have mobilized $1 billion in financing for clean cooking solutions in Africa.
    As such, the participation of ARDA Executive Secretary Anibor Kraghan as a speaker at this year’s MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2024 conference – taking place in Dakar from December 3-4 – will showcase the role downstream expansion has in delivering an inclusive energy future in Africa.

    Representing the only pan-African organization for the continent’s downstream sector, ARDA’s mandate to become a voice for all African downstream stakeholders is becoming more effective. At a time when disruptions in global supply chains continue to cause price shocks and instability worldwide, many African countries continue to rely heavily on refined product imports.

    In this context, ARDA advocates the need to improve investment across the downstream sector so that Africa can improve energy security and self-reliance with upgrades to existing refineries, the construction of new facilities and the establishment of regional distribution networks.

    Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region’s oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.MSGBCOilgGsandPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2024 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Having recently joined the ranks of oil-producing nations from its first shipment of crude oil from the Sangomar field development this month, Meanwhile, in May 2024, Senegal’s Saint-Louis Region Governor Alioune Badara Sambe announced that the country will build a new 250 MW gas-to-power plant near Saint-Louis, which will leverage gas from the country’s flagship Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) field – due to start production by the end of this year.

    Senegalese energy company West Africa Energy plans to open the country’s first and largest combined cycle gas power station in December 2024. The Cap des Biches plant will have an initial estimated capacity of 160 MW and leverage sizeable gas reserves to be brought online by large-scale projects underway in the region.

    Currently in its construction phase, the project is expected to enter generate 2,390 GWh of electricity for consumers. Meanwhile, with a capacity of 360 MW, the Sandiara gas-to-power plant is slated to start construction this year in Senegal’s Special Economic Zone and will feature an annual production capacity of 2,900 GWh.

    West Africa’s oldest refinery, the Société Africaine de Raffinage refinery in Senegal is currently undergoing major upgrades. The country’s government is currently in discussion with financial institution the African Export-Import Bank to support $500 million in syndicated finance to increase annual production from 1.5 million to 3.5 million tons of refined petroleum products.

    With sizeable offshore oil and gas reserves, the MSGBC region’s abundance of natural resources is set to drive downstream investment while providing much-needed energy development to the West African region.

    In addition to the Sangomar and GTA developments, the MSGBC region is home to the Yakaar-Teranga field, offshore Senegal, which holds confirmed reserves of 25 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of natural gas. meanwhile, the BirAllah gas field offshore Mauritania is estimated to contain nearly 60 tcf of gas and is poised to commence production in the third or fourth quarter of 2024.

    In light of these developments, the MSGBC region’s downstream industry represents a highly attractive investment opportunity owing to rising regional demand, industry-focused policies and the introduction of local oil and gas to the market in 2024. As such, Kragha’s participation at MSGBC 2024 is set to examine developments across the regional downstream industry, challenges faced and strategies for expanding infrastructure.

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

    SOURCE
    Energy Capital & Power

  • Africa: APO Group Chairman Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard to Share Insights on African Sports and Development at EurAfrican Forum 2024

    Africa: APO Group Chairman Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard to Share Insights on African Sports and Development at EurAfrican Forum 2024

    CASCAIS, Portugal, July 10, 2024/ — APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is glad to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), will be a guest speaker at the seventh edition of the EurAfrican Forum 2024 (www.EurAfricanForum.org).

    The event, organised by the Portuguese Diaspora Council, will take place at NOVA School of Business and Economics in Cascais, Portugal on 15 – 16 July 2024.

    Launched in 2018 and chaired by the former President of the European Commission and current Chair of the Board of Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, Professor José Manuel Durão Barroso, the EurAfrican Forum is an action-oriented platform that seeks to strengthen collaboration between Europe and Africa.

    Previous editions of the EurAfrican Forum were attended by the Presidents of Ghana, Mozambique, and Angola, along with a diverse array of influential leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.

    Commenting on his participation, Pompigne-Mognard said, “I am honoured to join this distinguished forum and share insights on how the sports industry can be a catalyst for the growth of the continent.

    Sports go beyond entertainment. It is widely recognised by development actors as a catalyst and an enabler of human development and social good, offering opportunities for jobs and revenue generation through sponsorships, broadcasting rights, merchandise sales, venue management, tourism, infrastructure development, event management, hospitality services, sports technology, and fan engagement.

    Sports can also influence urban development by revitalising areas through the construction of stadiums and sports complexes, contributing to local economies.”

    Pompigne-Mognard serves on the Advisory Board of the World Football Summit.

    In June 2023, he was appointed as Special Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa, to provide expert advice and guidance on specific issues and areas of responsibility related to rugby and matters of interest on the African continent.

    Pompigne-Mognard’s wholly-owned enterprise, APO Group, has been FIFA’s pan-African public relations agency for the past three years and serves as the pan-African public relations agency for the NBA and the Basketball Africa League. It also functions as the strategic partner of the Olympic Movement in Africa (ANOCA).

    From 2017 to 2022, APO Group held the position of Main Official Sponsor of Rugby Africa. In 2023, it advanced to become Rugby Africa’s official public relations partner and sport marketing agency. APO also sponsored Africa’s first-ever World Tour cycling team, NTT Pro Cycling, from 2020 to 2022, and the Lux Afrique Polo Day from 2019 to 2021.

    It maintains strategic partnerships with the International Press Sport Association (AIPS) and is the official partner of the OM Africa development programme of the renowned French football club, Olympique de Marseille.

    Recently, The Beast Foundation, a prominent sports and education programme established by former Springbok rugby legend and Rugby World Cup winner, Tendai Mtawarira (The Beast), selected APO Group as its exclusive public relations partner.

    Pompigne-Mognard was listed among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023.

    Other representatives from APO Group attending the EurAfrican Forum 2024 include João Marques, Director of Strategy, and Eleanor Legge-Bourke, Senior Growth Director.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

    Media contact:
    Marie@apo-opa.com

  • The Celebration of Fire Festival:Prospects & Tourism Potentials for the Gbewaa Kingdoms(By Fuseini Yakubu)

    The Celebration of Fire Festival:Prospects & Tourism Potentials for the Gbewaa Kingdoms(By Fuseini Yakubu)

     

    Fuseini Yakubu

    Introduction.

     This article presents the celebration of Fire Festival in the three main Gbewaa Kingdoms in Northern Ghana. Fire Festival is an annual festival for the people of the Gbewaa Kingdoms. It’s celebrated on the 9th day of the month of fire “Bugum Goli”. The lunar month of Fire Festival “Bugum Goli”, is the first month and beginning of a new year, just like January which is the first month of a new year.

    The article will also discuss the prospects and tourism potentials for the celebration of Fire Festival, if it’s well packaged and marketed. In recent times, the way Fire Festival is being celebrated mostly by the youth, sends wrong signals to the people outside the three main Gbewaa Kingdoms. As such, people have negative perception about the celebration of the Fire Festival. This article is to educate readers on the significance of the Fire Festival.

     The Genesis and Evolution of the Fire Festival.

    The Fire Festival it is believed is the first Festival for the People of Dagbon (Modern Dagbon, Nanung & Mamprugu). The aboriginal Dagbamba are believed  to be descendants of prophet Noah.

    Fire Festival is a custom emanated from Noah’s time in commemoration of the day the Ark of Noah “rested on Mount Ararat and the people in the Ark came and made fires7”. Tamakloe also, considers the fire festival of the Dagbamba as a custom emanated from Noah’s time in commemoration of the day the Ark of Noah “rested on Mount Ararat and the people in the Ark came and made fires7”. Dagbamba tradition attributes the significance of the fire festival to Prophet Noah; they assign different reasons for the festival.

    According to the tradition, when Prophet Noah was about to set out with his Ark, one of his sons got missing.  A search for him was commenced.  The search continued until night when the son was not yet found. Searching lights were lighted to look for him.

    The significance of the Fire Festival therefore is to commemorate the search for Prophet Noah’s son. Whatever the reason, the tradition agrees that the Fire Festival relates to Prophet Noah and the Great Flood.

    Furthermore, the lunar month for the Fire Festival “Bugum Goli” is the beginning of the year in the three sister Kingdoms: Dagbon, Mamprugu and Nanung.

    The same month “Muharam” is the beginning of the year in Arabia. New Year resolutions are made during the festival and also pray to God for protection, guidance, and prosperity.  As part of the celebration, they cut bits and pieces of cooked food and put the same short on dividing walls in their homes.

    These pieces of cooked food are supposed to be food for their ancestors and deceased family members. They believed that the spirit of their ancestors visits them on this important day. As such, they have to serve them with food and meat. Every poor home in Dagbon will slaughter fowls for this important day.

    The Dagomba, like the Arabs, have twelve lunar months in a year. Even though the names of their months differ, their year begins with the same month.  They also end the year with the same month. The number of days in their months is equal. A month is either thirty or twenty-nine days.

    The Celebration of Fire Festival.

    Fire festival is celebrated on the 9th day of the month “Bugum Goli”. Sacrifices are performed at individual homes in the evening. The meat is then used to prepare meals in the evening. Bunch of grasses are tied for the celebration.

    The Overlords of Dagbon, Mamprugu and Nanung will by tradition, formally inform their chief Imams as he and his team of other Muslim clerics have an important role to play in the festival.

    The festival is observed at night. The Overlords will light the fire to mark the beginning of the celebration. Until the Overlords light the fire before any other person could do so.

    The Overlords and all participants will be in their War Regalia. They also exhibit their weapons and dancing to the tune of War drums and singing of War and other traditional songs. They walk from the east to the west where the remains of Grass bunches are thrown away and branches of herbs are cut by all participants.

    Participants move with the branches of the herbs first to the chief’s palace for fortification. They will then continue to the Chief Imam’s house for same fortification.

    It is believed that the participants are directly fortified as the spiritual concoction touches their bodies. The herbs are sent to the individual homes which they boiled and used to bath children and the weak who could not participate, to be fortified. The fortification is for protection against any calamities in the new year.

    It’s important to note that before the advent of Islam, traditionalists used to prepare herbal concoctions for fortification of the auras or bioenergetic bodies of the celebrants against any evil or  against the adverse effects of any impending calamity. With the advent of Islam in the Gbewaa Kingdoms, the Chief Imams  have since assumed this role giving an Islamic touch to the  preparation of spiritual concoction for the fortification.

    On the 10th day of the month “Bugum Goli” the Chief Imam and other clerics engage in private and employing  Islamic methods of divination, are able to forecast, foretell  or prophesy events that would unfold in the new year.

    If some aspects of the forecast happen to do with any impending  calamity  that could negatively impact members of the community, they also prescribe what sacrifices are there to be made either by  heads of the individual families, the Kings or  their paramount chiefs in order to seek divine interventions so as to avert its societal impact.

    Citizens in the Gbewaa Kingdoms  are expected to adhere to the precautions and prescriptions associated with the esoteric induced  forecasting made by the Chief Imam and his team of other Muslim clerics vested in the Islamic mystical sciences  . This mark the end of the Fire Festival.

    Socio-Economic and Spiritual Benefits of the Fire Festival.

    • Participants or celebrants gets fortified at least for a year through the bathing of the spiritual/herbal concoction.
    • Celebrants excise their bodies through drumming, dancing, and walking for some few kilometers.
    • Celebrants are able to socialize with others and make new friends during the celebration.
    • Youth gatherings, such as Jams and other traditional dances are also held after the celebration.
    • Food vendors and other entrepreneurs such as butchers, provision shops, local poultry sellers among others record high sales during the festive season.
    • Special prayers and sacrifices are also observed for protection and prevention of calamities/disaster that may strike
    • the kingdoms.

    In conclusion, the Fire Festival, if it is well packaged and promoted,as an annual cultural tourism event could attract tourists and possibly investments that could inure to the socio-economic development benefit of the Gbewaa Kingdoms.

    Contact Fusheini Yakubu (Research-Oriented Historian),Tel: 0243418562/0202833838,Email: millysdec@gmail.com 

     BIBLIOGRAPHY

    Alhaj Abdulai (Bimbilla Lung-Naa), 2008, oral literature on the advent of Naa Gmantambu to Nanung.

    Bagli Naa Mahama Wumbei Mahami, 2013, oral literature on the aboriginal Dagbamba.

    Fusheini Yakubu, 2013, History of the Gbewaa States Part I New Edition published by GILLBT Printing Press, Tamale.

    Fusheini Yakubu, 2022, History of the Gbewaa Kingdoms New Edition published by Workbook Press LLC USA.

    Ibrahim Mahama 2004, History and Tradition of Dagbon, published by GILLBT Printing Press, Tamale.

    Tamakloe, E. F. 1931 A Brief History of the Dagbamba People (Accra, Government Printer).

  • Angola Environmental Services Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2024 as Silver Sponsor

    Angola Environmental Services Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2024 as Silver Sponsor

    LUANDA, Angola, July 8, 2024/ — Angola plans to increase oil production to 1.1 million barrels per day (bpd) until 2027, thereafter maintaining output at this level. To support production growth, the country is promoting investment in exploration, with several drilling campaigns planned across both on- and offshore acreage.

    As upstream drilling progresses in Angola, waste management company Angola Environmental Servicos (AES) joins the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference (http://apo-opa.co/4cRIMO5) – scheduled for October 2-3 in Luanda – as a Silver Sponsor.

    During the event, AES is expected to share insight into emerging technologies regarding environmental and waste management while promoting solutions for improving sustainability across oil and gas operations.

    AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; national oil company Sonangol; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the African Energy Chamber; and the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute, the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Under efforts to incentivize investment in exploration, Angola is preparing to launch its next oil tender in Q1, 2025, offering up to 10 blocks across the Kwanza and Benguela basins.

    At present, the National Oil, Gas & Biofuels Agency – Angola’s national concessionaire – is negotiating terms for a 12-block tender concluded in January 2024. With the round – as well as incremental production drilling (http://apo-opa.co/4eVWbq6) 1 at already-producing assets – Angola anticipates 43 wells to be spud throughout 2024.

    Stepping into this picture, AES is strategically positioned to support upcoming concessions, with facilities at the Sonils Logistics Base in Luanda and the Kwanda Base in Soyo offering waste management services and solutions.

    The company’s integrated offerings include thermal desorption, incineration, landfill services, tank cleaning services, cargo transport units, recycling and more, all of which are integral for oil and gas operations.

    Meanwhile, to respond to the growing needs of the Angolan oil and gas industry, AES (http://apo-opa.co/3XSwZLa) acquired new equipment in 2022 while implementing automation across its operations to reduce human interaction and improve safety. The company aims to drive sustainability across the oil and gas industry (http://apo-opa.co/3XVObja).

    This is being achieved through research and development, the introduction of new processing activities for Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials and other operational technologies.

    Uniting upstream operators, Angolan regulators and service and technology providers, the AOG 2024 conference offers a platform for heightened engagement between industry stakeholders.

    AES’s participation in the event reflects their commitment to supporting sustainable oil and gas operations in Angola.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    SOURCE
    African Energy Chamber

  • Africa Energy Expo 2024’s Dynamic Agenda Attracts High-Profile Speakers and Key Stakeholders Shaping the Continent’s Energy Landscape

    Africa Energy Expo 2024’s Dynamic Agenda Attracts High-Profile Speakers and Key Stakeholders Shaping the Continent’s Energy Landscape

    KIGALI, Rwanda, July 8, 2024/ — Informa Markets (www.InformaMarkets.com), organisers of the first edition of the Africa Energy Expo (AEE), have confirmed that government Ministers from three African countries will join the line-up of speakers at the landmark energy event, taking place from 4 to 6 November 2024 at the Kigali Convention Centre, Rwanda.

    Delegates can look forward to hearing from Rwandan Minister of Infrastructure, H.E. Hon. Dr. Jimmy Gasore; Malawian Minister of Energy, H.E. Hon. Ibrahim Matola; and Namibian Minister of Energy and Mines, H.E. Hon. Tom Alweendo. They join a stellar group of experts from across the continent for what promises to be three days of thought-provoking discussions and valuable insights aimed at reshaping how role-players navigate Africa’s evolving energy landscape.

    With two conference tracks (the Technical Seminar and the paid-for Leadership Summit) comprising over 40 sessions, delegates will have access to industry leaders’ unique perspectives on critical issues in the energy sector, as well as the opportunity to engage in by-invitation investment and hosted buyer programmes.

    “AEE 2024 is the ideal platform for engaging with energy sector stakeholders, emphasising youth involvement in the energy transition, and building lasting partnerships to promote sustainable energy in Africa. It will play a key role in accelerating Africa’s energy transition by facilitating dialogue, networking, and collaboration between governments and the private sector.

    We look forward to connecting with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers dedicated to advancing clean energy in Africa,” said Mohamed Alhaj, Founder and Managing Director, Terra Energy.

    The exclusive Africa Energy Leadership Summit aims to create partnerships and opportunities that will accelerate targeted interventions and achieve the objectives and pillars outlined in the Africa Power Vision to Action initiative (https://apo-opa.co/3XZVhTP), and by extension the Program for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) (https://apo-opa.co/4da8mhJ) for a just, fair, and equitable energy transition.

    Topics under discussion include universal electrification and a policy framework to leverage the African single electricity markets; financing energy access in Africa and mitigating the risks associated with energy infrastructure projects; the role of innovation in driving last-mile rural electrification with decentralised renewable energy; carbon market mechanisms to drive investment; green hydrogen; and gas-to-power infrastructure, amongst others.

    “AEE 2024 covers key touchpoints in Africa’s energy transition journey, bringing together stakeholders in the continent’s energy sector to share insights and experience, build and foster relationships, and lay the groundwork for much needed partnerships and investment,” said Ade Yesufu, Exhibition Director – Energy, Informa Markets.

    The Africa Energy Leadership Summit, a paid-only conference themed ‘Investments, integration, infrastructure, and governance to fuel the energy transition,’ brings together over 70 speakers and senior decision-makers engaged in closing the continent’s energy and power infrastructure gap, fostering partnerships and opportunities to accelerate targeted energy and power initiatives.

    The following speakers have also confirmed their attendance at AEE 2024:

    • Abdellatif Bardach, President, National Electricity Regulatory Authority (ANRE), Morocco
    • Armand M. Zingiro, CEO, Rwanda Energy Group
    • Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, Co-Founder and Deputy Managing Director, Falcon Corporation Limited
    • Ernest Sipho Mkhonta, Managing Director, Eswatini Electricity Company, Kingdom of Eswatini
    • Dr. Geoffrey Aori Mabea, Executive Secretary, Energy Regulators Association of East Africa
    • Eng. Gissima Nyamo-Hanga, Managing Director, Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco)
    • Kweku Awotwi, Chairman, United Bank for Africa (Ghana) Ltd.
    • Marlene Ngoyi, CEO, Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA)
    • Muyangwa Muyangwa, Director General, National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA), Zambia
    • Ing. Oscar Amonoo-Neizer, Executive Secretary, Energy Commission, Ghana
    • Pat Thaker, Editorial and Regional Director, MEA, The Economist Intelligence Unit
    • Eng. Stephen Dihwa, Executive Director, SAPP (Southern African Power Pool Coordination Centre)
    • Dr. Sydney Gata, Executive Chairman, ZESA Holdings
    • Eng. Victor Mapani, Managing Director, ZESCO – Zambia

    Other key features of AEE 2024 include:

    • over 150 exhibitors from five product sectors: renewable and clean energy, transmission and distribution, energy consumption and management, back-up generators and critical power, and smart solutions;
    • a Technical Seminar aimed at sharing cutting-edge innovations and technologies, and serving as a knowledge hub where delegates have the opportunity to learn and share industry best practices and scientific developments;
    • an Entrepreneurs Bootcamp that is open to entrepreneurs and youth, to develop essential business skills and knowledge, and build a network in the utilities sector; and
    • investor matchmaking, which is a meeting facilitation service supporting Africa’s PPP development, connecting equity investors with energy project companies in person at AEE 2024.

    Join more than 5,000 stakeholders, industry experts, and enthusiasts for the inaugural Africa Energy Expo 2024 and play a role in shaping the future of energy in Africa.

    Register for free as a visitor: https://apo-opa.co/4cy2wGN

    Book your delegate pass: https://apo-opa.co/4cy2wGN

    Visit the event website: www.Africa-EnergyExpo.com/

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Informa Markets: Energy.

    SOURCE
    Informa Markets: Energy

  • Gazprom Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2024 as Silver Sponsor, Driving Africa’s Gas Momentum

    Gazprom Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2024 as Silver Sponsor, Driving Africa’s Gas Momentum

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, July 4, 2024/ — Russian multinational energy corporation Gazprom is spearheading a crucial refinery upgrade project at the Mossel Bay gas-to-fuel facility in South Africa – which advanced to feasibility stage last month – as part of efforts to support Africa’s gas monetization agenda and secure a reliable supply of refined petroleum products.

    As the world’s largest producer of natural gas, Gazprom will join African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy – taking place in Cape Town on November 4-8 – as a Silver Sponsor, bringing valuable insights and perspectives on harnessing Africa’s substantial gas resources.

    For Africa, natural gas represents the key to achieving broad energy security and diversified economic growth. With over 620 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of proven gas reserves, the continent is seeking to ramp up gas exploration efforts, while establishing integrated, gas-based networks and downstream industries.

    Through new exploration campaigns, Nigeria is aiming to expand its gas reserves from 200 tcf to 600 tcf; Mozambique is spearheading development of the 18-million-ton-per-year (mtpa) Rovuma LNG and 13-mtpa Mozambique LNG facilities; and Algeria is driving production through a gas-boosting project at the Hassi R’Mel gas field.

    The 2.3-mtpa Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project in Senegal and Mauritania anticipates first production later this year, while the Tanzania LNG project is set to produce 10 million mtpa once approval by the government is secured.

    AEW: Invest in African Energy stands as the premier platform for project operators, financiers, technology providers, and governments, recognized as the definitive venue for sealing deals in African energy. For more information about this pivotal event, visit www.AECWeek.com.

    Gazprom’s expertise in gas exploration, production, processing and export positions it as a viable partner to Africa’s natural gas agenda. Last year, the company partnered with the African Energy Chamber (AEC) to host the International Gas Roundtable, an exclusive event highlighting the pivotal role of gas in stimulating economic development across the continent.

    The roundtable served as a unique platform to explore innovative strategies, exchange best practices and shape the future of gas development, providing valuable insights for both mature and emerging African gas producers.

    “Gazprom is consistently expanding its dialogue with African countries and stands ready to share its unique know-how and best practices in realizing mutually profitable energy industry projects with potential partners from Africa.

    Gazprom possesses all the necessary technologies and innovations capable to assist African countries in securing energy industry development based on the existing natural gas reserves, in decreasing the level of ‘energy poverty,’ and in improving the quality of life of the populations of African countries, as well as in resolving environmental problems,” states Dmitry Khandoga, Head of International Business at Gazprom.

    Gazprom’s technical expertise in the gas sector demonstrates the potential for Africa to increase production and unlock new export markets. With projects like the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline and Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline set to supply African gas to regional and European markets, Gazprom’s expertise is particularly crucial, as it operates a number of pipelines that deliver gas across the country and transnationally.

    The company deploys cutting-edge technologies in the design and maintenance of pipelines, such as the application of corrosion-resistant materials and automated monitoring systems, which increase the reliability and durability of gas infrastructure. At AEW: Invest in African Energy, Gazprom will share its expertise to foster collaboration with industry leaders, advocate for sustainable energy practices and forge partnerships that work towards Africa’s energy security and growth.

    “Natural gas is a strategic tool in the fight against energy poverty in Africa. It represents a reliable, scalable and cost-effective solution for power generation and industrial growth. Gazprom’s technical expertise across the entire gas value chain – which makes it the world’s largest gas producer – provides a valuable blueprint for African nations looking to harness gas for domestic use and export,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

    Returning to this year’s edition of AEW: Invest in African Energy, Gazprom will bring a wealth of expertise in the exploration, production, transportation, storage, processing, and sales of gas, gas condensate and oil. By collaborating with industry leaders and African stakeholders, Gazprom aims to support the continent’s journey towards energy independence and sustainable development.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    SOURCE
    African Energy Chamber

  • Republic of Congo Hydrocarbons Minister to Discuss Gas Monetization at Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2024

    Republic of Congo Hydrocarbons Minister to Discuss Gas Monetization at Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2024

    LUANDA, Angola, July 4, 2024/ — Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons of the Republic of Congo (ROC), has joined the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference as a speaker. During the conference – scheduled for October 2-3 in Luanda – Minister Itoua will provide insight into emerging opportunities in oil exploration, gas monetization and LNG development, as well as potential areas for collaboration between the two countries.

    Both ROC and Angola have set bold production targets, aiming to increase oil output to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) and 1.1 million bpd, respectively. Both countries’ favorable investment climates have sparked the interest of a strong slate of E&P firms, with AOG 2024 set to not only support national oil and gas objectives, but also offer a platform for engagement in emerging cross-border projects.

    AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; national oil company Sonangol; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the African Energy Chamber; and the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute, the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    To support oil production, ROC is promoting investment in frontier exploration alongside incremental production from existing assets. The Central African country – with 1.8 billion barrels of proven oil reserves – has several upstream campaigns underway that aim to unlock new discoveries.

    Independent energy company Perenco, for example, completed 3D seismic surveys at the Tchibouela II, Tchendo II, Marine XXVIII and Emeraude permits in November 2023. Energy major TotalEnergies has announced plans to invest $600 million to drive exploration and production activities in the country, specifically through the development of the Moho Nord field.
    The field currently accounts for nearly half of total Congolese oil production, producing an estimated 140,000 bpd. The investment will support drilling operations in line with national targets to bolster output.

    Meanwhile, ROC is committed to monetizing its gas resources through both associated and non-associated projects. The country reached a milestone in March 2024 with the delivery of its first LNG cargo to Italy from the Congo LNG development.

    As the country’s inaugural LNG facility, the project employed a fast-tracked approach whereby LNG was produced just 12 months after FID. By 2025, the Congo LNG project is expected to produce 2.4 million tons per annum, with ROC joining the likes of Angola as a major African LNG exporter.

    Further supporting its gas monetization drive, ROC is making progress with the development of the Bango Kayo project. Set to reach peak oil production of 50,000 bpd, project developer Wing Wah is deploying an integrated approach to expand the project through multiple phases.

    The project will begin monetizing previously-flared gas to support the country’s industrial sector, serving as a model for other African oil producers including Angola, which is striving to maximize production from mature assets.

    Minister Itoua’s participation at AOG 2024 not only speaks to the caliber of the event as the premier oil and gas conference in Angola, but creates new opportunities for bilateral collaboration in the fields of LNG production and oilfield development.

    Angola and ROC – both offering promising opportunities in offshore exploration and tie-ins to existing onshore infrastructure – represent highly attractive hydrocarbons markets, with the AOG 2024 conference set to connect global investors with prospective opportunities.

    Minister Itoua will be joined by Maixent Raoul Ominga, Managing Director of the Congo’s national oil company Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo at AOG 2024. For more information, visit www.AngolaOilAndGas.com.

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

    SOURCE
    Energy Capital & Power