TANZANIA today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a Coalition of Development Partners, including the World Bank, the United Kingdom Department for International Development, and TradeMark East Africa to develop Dar es Salaam port.

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">World Bank Group Managing Director Sri Mulyani Indrawati witnessed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by Phillipe Dongier, World Bank Country Director for Tanzania, Uganda and Burundi; Ms. Ros Cooper, Acting Head of Office, DFID Tanzania; Frank Matseart, Chief Executive Officer, TradeMark East Africa; and Dr. Shaabani Mwinjakah, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport, to increase the cooperation in the development of Dar es Salaam Port. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The signing ceremony was also attended by Hon. Dr. Harrison G. Mwakyembe (MP), Minister of Transport; Josaphat Kweka, TMEA Country Director for Tanzania; and Aloyce Matei, Acting Director General of the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA). <br /><br />The cooperation, which will be delivered through the Dar es Salaam Martime Gateway Project, includes the provision of financial support to facilitate the deepening and strengthening of berths 1-7, the dredging of the entrance channel and turning basin in the port, the construction of a new berth and roll on – roll off terminal, and improvements in the spatial efficiency and operational effectiveness of the Port of Dar es Salaam. The provisional cost of the project is US$565 million, and will be covered by a mixture of loan, credit, and grant from the Development Partners. <br /><br />The overall objective of the co-operation is to support the TPA to realize the objectives of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania for the maritime sub-sector, as expressed in the Big Results Now (BRN) Initiative, Part of Tanzania Vision 2025, and increase the capacity of the port to 28 million tons by 2020 from current 14.6 million tons handled in 2013/14. <br /><br />This Memorandum of Understanding marks another significant milestone in the history of relations of the World Bank and Tanzania”, said Mr. Phillipe Dongier World Bank Country Director for Tanzania. “The World Bank Group has been a consistent supporter to the transport sector in the country in the past and we are delighted that now we are closely working with the UK Department for International Development and TradeMark East Africa, which has an ongoing program of support for the last 4 years since its establishment in Tanzania, and the Tanzania Ports Authority to deliver a project that will make a substantive contribution to the development of both the country and the East Africa region. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The proposed DMGP will support the priorities of the Government in the maritime sub-sector and improve the key infrastructure in the country. We believe that the Bank’s international expertise in the area of maritime transportation and logistics and public private partnerships will help Tanzania performance levels of the world’s best practices.” Ms Ros Cooper added that 'The Port of Dar es Salaam is arguably Tanzania's most important infrastructure asset. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Future growth of the economy depends on the Port's ability to improve, to become more efficent and to be able to handle more trade. This partnership between TPA, the World Bank, DFID and TMEA will make that happen. We are extremely excited to be part of this initiative that I know will help Tanzania to be more competitive and that will support economic development and growth across the region. And through this, improve the lives of millions of people'.</span></div> </div>

TANZANIA today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a Coalition of Development Partners, including the World Bank, the United Kingdom Department for International Development, and TradeMark East Africa to develop Dar es Salaam port.

World Bank Group Managing Director Sri Mulyani Indrawati witnessed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by Phillipe Dongie...

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Balozi SEIF AWAPONGEZA VIONGOZI WA SINGIDA

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar Balozi Seif Ali Iddi amewapongeza Wabunge na Viongozi wa Mkoa wa Singida kwa kazi kubwa wanazoendelea kuzifanya za kusimamia miradi ya Kiuchumi na ustawi wa Jamii ya wananchi wa Mkoa huo. <br /><br />Amesema usimamizi huo umeufanya Mkoa huo kuongezeka harakati za maendeleo jambo ambalo wananchi walio wengi wameonyesha muelekeo mkubwa wa kujitegemea kimaisha. <br /><br />Balozi Seif alisema hayo wakati wa hafla fupi ya kukabidhi michango na kupunuza ahadi alizozitoa wakati wa ziara yake ya hivi karibuni Mkoani Singida aliyoifanya rasmi kuaga kama Mlezi wa Mkoa huo Kichama. <br /><br />Akikabidhi michango hiyo kwa Mbunge wa Jimbo la Singida Mashariki Mh. John Chiligati na Mbunge wa Jimbo la Singida Magharibi Mh.Alhajj Misanga hapo nyumani kwake Mtaa wa Farahani Mjini Dodoma Balozi Seif alielezea masikitiko yake kwa kuukosa ukarimu wa Wananchi wa Mkoa huo aliouzoea wakati wa ulezi wake. <br /><br />Balozi Seif aliwakumbusha Viongozi na Wananchi wa Mkoa wa Singida kuendelea kushikamana na yeye atakuwa tayari kuongeza msukumo wake ili kuona maendeleo ya Kijamii yanazidi kukua na kustawisha ustawi wa jamii ya wananchi wa Mkoa huo. <br /><br />Akitoa shukrani kwa niaba ya wananchi wa Mkoa wa Singida Mbunge wa Jimbo la Singida Mashariki Mh. John Chiligati alisema Balozi Seif Ali Iddi alifanya kazi kubwa iliyoleta mshikamanio wakati akiwa Mlezi wa Mkoa huo wa Singida. <br /><br />Mh. Chiligati alisema Balozi Seif amekiacha Chama cha Mapinduzi imara ndani ya Mkoa wa Singida na wakaahidi kwamba malezi mema aliyoyaacha watajitahidi kuyaendeleza ipasavyo. <br /><br />“ Ukweli tumesikitika kumkosa mlezi muadilifu aliyetuachia majonzi kutokana na uitendaji wake. Lakini hata hivyo tumemuwekea milango wazi awe huru kushauri na kusaidia harakati za maendeleo ya wananchi wa Singida “. Alisema Mh. John Chiligati. <br /><br />Mbunge huyo wa Jimbo la Singida Masharik pia limpongeza na kumshukuru Mke wa Mlezi huyo Mstaafu wa Mkoa wa Singida Mama Asha Suleiman Iddi kwa msimamo wake wa kusimamia ilani na sera za Chama cha Mapinduzi Kivitendo. <br /><br />Mh. Chiligati alimuelezea Mama Asha kuwa ni jasiri kutokana nay eye pamoja na Mke wa Rais wa Zanzibar Mama Mwanamwema Shein kuuongoza Umoja wa wake wa Wabunge na Wawakilishi wa CCM Zanzibar ambao umeleta mafanikio makubwa hasa kwa akina mama na watoto. <br /><br />Balozi Seif katika hafla hiyo fupi alikabidhi mchango wa shilingi Milioni moja na laki Tano kwa ajili ya ununuzi wa mabati ya kuezekea jengo la Mabara ya Skuli ya Sekondari ya Chikuyu iliyopo Wilaya ya Manyoni,shilingi 1,000,000/- za kununulia matofali kwa uendelezaji wa Kituo cha Afya cha Kijiji cha Mtunduru pamoja na shilingi 1,000,000/- kwa ajili ya Madrasa ya Muzdalifa iliyopo Ilongero. <br /><br />Balozi Seif pia akakabidhi zawadi za Seti moja moja za Jezi na mipira minne kwa timu za soka na mpira wa pete wa Skuli ya Iyumbu pamoja na skuli ya msingi ya Ilongero. </span></div> </div>

Balozi SEIF AWAPONGEZA VIONGOZI WA SINGIDA

Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar Balozi Seif Ali Iddi amewapongeza Wabunge na Viongozi wa Mkoa wa Singida kwa kazi kubwa wanazoendelea k...

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The new services will be Air Seychelles’ fourth destination in a rapidly expanding regional network that includes Tanzania, South Africa and Mauritius

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.airseychelles.com/">Air Seychelles</a> , the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, today announced the launch of direct flights to Antananarivo, Madagascar, commencing 3 December 2014.*<br /><br />The twice-weekly flights to the capital’s Ivato International Airport (TNR) will be operated using a two-class Airbus A320 aircraft with 16 Business Class and 120 Economy Class seats.<br /><br />Madagascar is renowned for its extraordinary botanical and zoological attractions, in particular three UNESCO World Heritage Sites —the rainforests of the Atsinanana, the Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, and the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, the spiritual centre of the Merina people.<br /><br />The new services will be Air Seychelles’ fourth destination in a rapidly expanding regional network that includes Dar es Salaam, Johannesburg and Mauritius.<br /><br />Manoj Papa, Air Seychelles’ Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are thrilled to add Antananarivo to our global network, further cementing our position as the airline of choice in the Indian Ocean region.<br /><br />“Madagascar is enjoying strong economic growth from renewed foreign investment and surging eco-tourism. Our flights will cater to the growing demand for business and leisure travel to what is the world’s fourth largest island.<br /><br />“The route will boost trade and tourism in both directions, and in particular, be welcomed by the large number of Malagasy nationals living in the Seychelles, who now have an easier way of visiting friends and family at home.<br /><br />“Via our Mahé hub, we will offer guests coming from Madagascar great onward connections to many of the islands in the Seychelles, in addition to destinations served by our fleet in the Middle East, Europe and Asia, as well as with our codeshare partners.”<br /><br />The A320 aircraft will also offer over seven tonnes of weekly bellyhold freight capacity to and from Madagascar, which has a strong inbound and outbound cargo market. The airline expects to carry a mixture of perishables, mechanical spare parts and pharmaceuticals on the route.<br /><br />Joël Morgan, Seychelles Minister for Home Affairs and Transport and Air Seychelles Board Chairman, said the new flights were indicative of Air Seychelles’ successful turnaround, as well as the Seychelles’ importance as a new regional hub.<br /><br />“The Indian Ocean is at the heart of our route network development, and we are delighted Antananarivo is now a part of the Air Seychelles network. It marks an important milestone in our regional expansion strategy.<br /><br />“Earlier this year, the Seychelles and Madagascar signed a new Air Services Agreement, where enhanced provisions have directly facilitated the announcement of flights. <br /><br />“The direct links to Antananarivo will create new opportunities for government, trade, tourism and cultural exchanges within the Indian Ocean, and through our global network, connect the region to the world.<br /><br />“We also offer significant new schedule options for travellers, providing more choice and flexibility within the region, and making Madagascar’s splendid treasury of culture, fauna, and flora more accessible than ever to holidaymakers, whether as a standalone destination or in combination with visits to other islands of the region, such as Comores, Mayotte, Mauritius, or Réunion.”<br /><br /><a href="http://www.photos.apo-opa.com/index.php?level=picture&id=1359"><img border="0" src="https://us-mg5.mail.yahoo.com/ya/download?mid=2%5f0%5f0%5f1%5f2441957%5fAOPkimIAABanVBLzpwAAAHJZ9m4&m=YaDownload&pid=3&fid=Inbox&inline=1&appid=yahoomail" /></a><br />Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of Air Seychelles.</span></div> </div>

The new services will be Air Seychelles’ fourth destination in a rapidly expanding regional network that includes Tanzania, South Africa and Mauritius

Air Seychelles , the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, today announced the launch of direct flights to Antananarivo, Madaga...

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‘The Agenda’ compiles results from 260 CEOs in Africa and includes insights from business and public sector leaders from 18 countries

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.pwc.com/">CEOs</a> in Africa are optimistic about their company’s prospects for revenue growth over the medium term, according to PwC’s ‘Africa Business Agenda, 2014’ report issued today . Suresh Kana, Senior Partner for PwC Africa, says: “CEOs in Africa feel more positive about their ability to generate revenue growth and about prospects for the economy now that they are emerging from the global financial recession.”<br /><br />“It is interesting to note however that CEOs are slightly more anxious about their prospects for growth over the short-term,” adds Kana. Although 84% remain confident overall, only 40% say they are ‘very confident’. “CEOs acknowledge that a lot more needs to be done in terms of transforming the continent’s potential for exponential growth into tangible business opportunities,” he says. “CEOs are looking on multiple fronts for growth opportunities – for many, the search for growth will not be an easy task.”<br /><br />‘The Agenda’ compiles results from 260 CEOs in Africa and includes insights from business and public sector leaders from 18 countries. The report shows that most CEOs in Africa feel confident about their approach to managing risk, despite some volatility and uncertainty. <br /><br />The pace of change in the world is speeding up with a series of transitions, known as global megatrends that will transform business and society. African CEOs rank technological advances (69%), urbanisation (67%) and demographic shifts (63%) as the top three defining trends that will transform their businesses over the next five years. They are aware of the implications of these changes for their businesses, as well as the outlook for Africa. Many have recognised the need for change or are making changes to their businesses.<br /><br />“Every day breakthroughs in frontiers of research and development are opening up new opportunities for businesses. As technologies progress, they will generate more improvements in efficiency and productivity. In turn, these advances are expected to trigger a strong acceleration in economic growth towards the end of the coming decade,” comments Kana.<br /><br />The growth agenda<br /><br />Confidence is on the rise among Africa’s CEOs. In general, they are more confident about their own company’s growth than they are about their industry’s prospects. While less than half are ‘very confident’ about their company’s growth prospects in the short term, less than a third (26%) are ‘very confident’ about industry growth. CEOs in Africa say that their desire to create something is what drives their organisation’s strategic planning. They rank products/service innovation (31%), increased share in existing markets (27%), followed by new geographic markets (20%) as opportunities for growth but are equally concerned about shifts in consumer spending and behaviours. <br /><br />Going forward, African CEOs say that they will be more actively looking for partners, while keeping an eye on costs. Almost half of them plan to initiate a new strategic alliance or joint venture in the next 12 months, and nearly a third are anticipating an acquisition, mainly in their home country or elsewhere in Africa. China is emerging as a key for consideration for growth prospects, followed by the US and South Africa, respectively. This is an indication of overall better economic prospects, higher availability of finance, and the growing presence of potential local and international partners attracted by the continent’s potential.<br /><br />“We are also seeing more use of technological innovation and products, with no less than 91% of African CEOs either recognising the need to change their investments or in the process of doing so. Similarly, 85% said the same about data analytics,” says Kana. Following a decade of rapid urbanisation, Africa is undergoing a digital revolution. However, there are still many hurdles and obstacles to overcome to the development of digital economy on the continent – and many of these hurdles are related to the development of a stable political and legal environment for companies, citizens and investors.<br /><br />Main risks to doing business in Africa<br /><br />Infrastructure is important in driving economic growth and employment on the continent. However, 45% of African CEOs believe that their governments have been ineffective in improving the country’s basic infrastructure, such as electricity, water supply, transport and housing. CEOs also identified the creation of a skilled workforce (64%), the reduction of poverty and inequality (62%), and creating more jobs for young people (74%) as areas in which governments should be taking more decisive action and creating a business-friendly environment. <br /><br />“In our view, one of the big challenges is for government to find new ways to form strategic collaborations and partnerships with people from other sectors, such as business. Tomorrow’s public body will need to act differently – governments of the future will need to embrace a lot of private-public partnerships.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br />The report shows that for CEOs in Africa, government responses to over-regulation (80%), exchange rate volatility (79%) the fiscal deficit and debt burdens (78%) and adequate infrastructure are key areas of concern, and that governments have their work cut out for them. Other areas of concern are the increasing tax burden, slow or negative growth in developed economies (70%) and the lack of stability in capital markets (65%). But the report does show that 45% of CEOs say that governments have effectively achieved the outcome of ensuring financial sector stability and access to affordable capital.<br /><br />Kana says that CEOs in South Africa share many of the concerns with their peers on the continent, with the survey showing that they have common worries about high or volatile energy costs (South Africa: 82%, Africa 76%); the availability of key skills (South Africa: 87%; Africa 83%); and new market entrants (South Africa: 63%; Africa: 58%).<br /><br />Most companies in Africa have some degree of risk management in place. The report shows that 31% of respondents have implemented plans to manage risk more effectively and 37% are strengthening their corporate governance structure. To prevent fraud, many CEOs in Africa are focused on supply chain management. For 83% of CEOs in Africa, bribery and corruption is a significant and frustrating threat to business growth.<br /><br />Kana adds: “An effective risk management approach requires organisations to think differently and the main challenge is good communication. By setting the tone from the top, boards and management can prioritise risk management and grow stronger, more resilient organisations.”<br /><br />As governments make strides worldwide to improve their fiscal systems, more than half of African CEOs (53%) say the international tax system hasn’t changed to reflect the way multinationals do business today and is in need of reform. Just 32% of CEOs said their government had been effective in creating a more internationally competitive and efficient tax system. <br /><br />The skills challenge<br /><br />CEOs globally remain concerned as ever about the availability of key skills. The survey shows that nowhere is the shortage of skills more acute than in fast-growing markets such as Africa, where CEOs are particularly concerned about skills shortages (83%). Most CEOs expect to maintain or increase their company’s headcount over the next 12 months.<br /><br />Furthermore, the competitive market for top talent influences compensation, with many companies under significant pressure to match or exceed pay conditions among peer companies to recruit or retain top talent.<br /><br />African CEOs also report that they are using a range of leadership development programmes intended to develop and grow more diversity within the talent pool. “To be successful, leadership development programmes must work to grow capacity and agility among top talent,” adds Kana.<br /><br />Adapting to change<br /><br />“Africa is a complex and diverse continent. Doing business on the continent can be a daunting experience for any organisation as they are faced with a myriad of uncertainties and challenges in different political, economic and legal environments.<br /><br />“Notwithstanding the difficulties and challenges ahead, many African organisations have learnt to brace themselves and adapt quickly, overcoming many of these challenges, including mitigating the risks – and turning Africa into the next frontier of growth,” concludes Kana.<br /><br />Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC).</span></div> </div>

‘The Agenda’ compiles results from 260 CEOs in Africa and includes insights from business and public sector leaders from 18 countries

CEOs in Africa are optimistic about their company’s prospects for revenue growth over the medium term, according to PwC’s ‘Africa Busines...

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MESSAGE ON THE UNITED NATIONS DAY OF SOUTH-SOUTH COOPERATION

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This year’s United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation comes as the international community is transitioning to a post-2015 development agenda centred on shared prosperity and environmental sustainability. <br /><br />Despite remarkable advances in achieving the Millennium Development Goals, progress across the South has been uneven. Extreme poverty, rampant inequality, malnutrition and vulnerability to climate and weather-related shocks persist. <br /><br />According to the UN Multidimensional Poverty Index, 2.2 billion people still live in abject poverty. About 1.4 billion people, the majority in the South, still have no reliable electricity, 900 million lack access to clean water and 2.6 billion do not have adequate sanitation. <br /><br />In the face of this stark reality, South-South and triangular cooperation offer a path to balancing growth and equity in the context of a new Global Partnership for Sustainable Development. <br /><br />I encourage countries of the South and all development partners to come together to share, disseminate and scale up successful development solutions and technologies. This November’s Global South-South Development Expo in Washington, D.C. will provide one such important platform. <br /><br />On this United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation, let us reaffirm our commitment to pioneering South-South approaches that will ensure shared prosperity, sustainable development and a life of dignity for all. </span></div> </div>

MESSAGE ON THE UNITED NATIONS DAY OF SOUTH-SOUTH COOPERATION

This year’s United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation comes as the international community is transitioning to a post-2015 developmen...

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An amazing opportunity to democratize access to power for Africans

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Well-known global business leader and chairman of Heirs Holdings Tony Elumelu says the group “has the ambition to generate at least a quarter of Nigeria’s power consumption needs in the next five years.” Heirs Holdings’ interests in the power sector include Transcorp Ughelli Power, a gas-fired, thermal power generating plant which was acquired under the privatisation of Nigeria’s power sector.<br /><br />Mr Elumelu will deliver the keynote address at this year’s West African Power Industry Convention (<a href="http://www.wapicforum.com/">WAPIC</a>)  in Lagos from 18-19 November. The 11th edition of this long running, high-level energy conference and expo will once again gather government, utilities, consultants and investors to discuss the challenges of local markets, capacity building and investment.<br /><br />Experience at Ughelli</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br />According to the Heirs Holdings chairman “the power industry is a catalytic sector and the development of our country and our continent cannot happen without fixing it.” <br /><br />He describes the USA’s Power Africa Initiative as “an amazing opportunity to democratize access to power for Africans, and the $2.5 billion investment commitment we have made reflects exactly how excited I am about it. The present administration made a bold decision when it decided to affect the changes envisaged by the Power Sector Reform Act — legislation that had been on the books since 2005. And that bold step was reinforced during President Barack Obama's last visit to Africa. We felt more strongly than ever, the need to help power Africa.” <br /><br />He continues: “our experience so far at Ughelli power plant is testimony to the size of the opportunity; our amazing team has taken that plant from 150MW capacity when we took over in November 2013, to 450MW today; we expect it to increase 700MW by October and to achieve 1000MW by the second quarter of 2015. At that rate, we’ll be contributing 20 per cent of Nigeria’s total power generation.“ Furthermore, he says they are working on a greenfield project that will expand the capacity of Ughelli by an additional 1000MW in the next three to five years and they have signed an MOU with GE and Symbion Power to facilitate this. <br /><br />Challenges in Nigerian power sector<br /><br />Mr Elumelu lists three main challenges in the Nigerian power sector, namely unreliable transmission infrastructure, access to uninterrupted gas supply and timely settlement of invoiced payments. <br /><br />He adds: “in Nigeria, one of the biggest challenges to power generation is transmission and in fact, while Ughelli Power Plant generated at full capacity for the first time in July, we’ve been asked to scale down generation because of the outdated transmission systems; for every 100MW generated and sent to transmission companies, 40 per cent is lost, in part because of this infrastructure issue.”<br /><br />While regulation is not a key challenge, says the Heirs Holdings chairman, it is an issue within the sector that if addressed, has the potential to speed sector growth exponentially. “We need pragmatic regulation that recognizes that within Nigeria, the sector is nascent and so policies must be designed to encourage growth. In fairness, the federal government is confronting these challenges head on.”<br /><br />Africapitalism creating social wealth<br /><br />Mr Elumelu has termed his economic philosophy as “Africapitalism”, which he says places more weight on long-term investments in key sectors that drive growth. He explains: “my personal experience also suggests that sustained economic prosperity must be inclusive and must create social wealth. Africapitalism is my attempt to advocate and promote what has worked for me. We as Africans are uniquely qualified to take the lead and develop Africa. I think we need to be more self-confident in order to create the sort of future our children deserve. All the ingredients for success are here in Africa and investing for the long term in key sectors, our people, and processes, will help to solve our problems and retain wealth within the continent.”<br /><br />WAPIC<br /><br />During his keynote address at WAPIC in Lagos in November, Tony Elumelu says he will “discuss the opportunities that I have discovered in the power space and the efforts of African power sector leaders through the West African Energy Leaders Forum to improve access to electricity across West Africa.” <br /><br />The event is organised by Spintelligent, leading Cape Town-based trade exhibition and conference organiser, and the African office of Clarion Events Ltd in the UK.<br /><br />Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of the West African Power Industry Convention (WAPIC).</span></div> </div>

An amazing opportunity to democratize access to power for Africans

Well-known global business leader and chairman of Heirs Holdings Tony Elumelu says the group “has the ambition to generate at least a quar...

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Al Yah 3 set to be launched in Q4 2016 from French Guiana Orbital Sciences Corporation to manufacture Al Yah 3 Arianespace to launch the new satellite in 2016

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://www.yahsat.ae/">Yahsa</a>t, the UAE-based satellite operator, has announced the manufacturing and launch partners for the Company’s recently announced third satellite, Al Yah 3, set to be launched in Q4 2016. This third satellite, within a decade of operation by Yahsat, extends the company’s commercial Ka-band coverage to an additional 17 countries and 600 million users across Africa and Brazil.<br /><br />In line with Yahsat’s strategy of working with the world’s leading organisations and positioning the UAE as the region’s satellite communications hub, Yahsat has announced a partnership - with Orbital Sciences Corporation (“Orbital”), which will manufacture Al Yah 3, and Arianespace which will launch the new satellite into orbit from French Guiana. The agreements supplement Yahsat’s world-class partnership model and knowledge-sharing vision which aims at bringing UAE technology and home-grown services to some of the world’s most unconnected and underserved regions. The selection also supports Yahsat’s objective of finding the right balance between cost, innovation and reliability for this crucial next step in the execution of the company’s growth strategy.<br /><br />Commenting on the appointment of partners Orbital and Arianespace, Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, Chief Executive Officer at Yahsat, said: “After a rigorous selection process, Yahsat has chosen two industry-leading organisations that will manufacture and launch our third satellite in late 2016. Having worked with Arianespace for the launch of Y1A, one of the world’s most advanced satellites currently in orbit, and with Orbital’s impressive track record of building over 150 satellites that have amassed over 1,000 years of in-orbit experience, both companies have proven their ability to meet and exceed our expectations for world class connectivity in Africa and Brazil.”<br /><br />“Looking ahead as development and launch plans progress, Yahsat will continue to explore ground partners and distributors across both Africa and Brazil. Our aim is not just to launch a satellite, but also provide a 360 degree service platform to facilitate the distribution of broadband and connectivity services in our target markets. Part of this exercise is to ensure we build the right distribution and operational platforms within each of our markets, and we are actively engaged in identifying strong partners across both continents.”<br /><br />Both partnerships support Yahsat’s objective of supporting the UAE national development agenda by providing a unique on the job training platform for Yahsat’s employees and UAE students throughout the build and launch process.<br /><br />Headquartered in the United States in Dulles, Virginia Orbital is one of the world’s preeminent space technology companies. It is a leading supplier of advanced small- and medium-class satellites and rockets for customers around the world. Founded in 1982, Orbital has built, delivered or now has under contract over 1,000 space systems, including more than three dozen commercial communications satellites for geosynchronous orbit missions. <br /><br />David W. Thompson, Orbital’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We are honored to have been selected as Yahsat’s partner to design, build, test and deliver the Al Yah 3 satellite for launch in late 2016. Being a part of this program is very important to our team because it enables us to contribute to the development of the advanced technology industry in the UAE. We look forward to working with the Yahsat team on this high-throughput/light-weight GEOStar satellite.”<br /><br />Arianespace was founded in 1980 as the world first commercial satellite launch company. Since its creation, Arianespace has signed contracts with 85 customers worldwide carrying out close to 250 launches. More than half of the commercial satellites in service today were launched by Arianespace. <br /><br />Arianespace CEO Stéphane Israël, added: “On behalf of Arianespace, I feel honored of Yahsat’s renewed trust in Arianespace’s tailor made launch solutions, after the successful launch in April 2011 of its first satellite, Yahsat-1A, by Ariane 5. Al Yah 3 launch contract marks the continuation of a long-term partnership between Yahsat and Arianespace in support of Yahsat’s growth as a global operator based in the Middle East. Being selected by Yahsat is also a true recognition of the quality and competitiveness of Arianespace’s offer. Besides, Al Yah 3 will be the 28th satellite manufactured by Orbital and launched by Arianespace: we are eager to work with Orbital again for mission integration and launch.”<br /><br />Al Yah 3 will be an all Ka-band high throughput satellite, with a unique design that optimizes cost, capacity, coverage and flexibility. It will enable delivery of affordable broadband, directly or indirectly to over 600 million users in both continents, specifically covering more than 95% of the population in Brazil and 60% of the population in Africa. This is in line with Yahsat’s goal to encourage social and economic development by providing people with a platform to access information, enabling them to enter the digital sharing stage as well as facilitate businesses to expand their network and help create jobs.<br /><br />Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PrJSC “Yahsat”.</div> </div>

Al Yah 3 set to be launched in Q4 2016 from French Guiana Orbital Sciences Corporation to manufacture Al Yah 3 Arianespace to launch the new satellite in 2016

Yahsa t, the UAE-based satellite operator, has announced the manufacturing and launch partners for the Company’s recently announced third ...

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Social media analysis reporting is offered first within APO’s press release monitoring service

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">APO (<a href="http://www.apo-opa.com/">African Press Organization</a>), The press release newswire in Africa and the global leader in media relations relating to Africa, today announced the introduction of a social media analysis reporting for press releases in Africa. <br /><br />A full social media analysis reporting will now be included as a complimentary service to answer clients needs to measuring the social media response to their press releases throughout Africa.<br /><br />The comprehensive report will offer figures on social media volume on the continent, geographic location, major influencers, sentiment and other data, giving clients factors to analyze specifically within social conversations, virality, and sharing volume. <br /><br />“The social media analytics reports will enable our clients issuing press releases to measure their social media in Africa. With that information they can gather sentiment analysis, and identify major influencers and geographical hotspots. This added service enables clients to identify and engage with influencers in Africa and to interact with their followers,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard Founder and CEO of APO (African Press Organization). <br /><br />The conversation generated on social media in response to a press release gives a unique perspective, which is what APO's social media analytic report monitors. It is composed of Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Google+, Delicious, Reddit, Vimeo, Flickr and more than three million RSS feeds. These valuable analytics, not just raw data, Measure the success of a press release which then reflects on volume, the matrixes posts made about the press release, When they happened and Who read /posted them.<br /><br />The report includes the reach and spread of the potential primary and secondary audience of posts about the release as well as the degree to which the press release influenced the intended audience based on a <a href="https://klout.com/corp/score">Klout score</a>. The report indicates the key words and phrases that appear most often in conjunction with the press release. It provides a useful tool to visualize geographical break down of Africa’s demographic conversations about the press release – all on a map of Africa to give a snapshot.<br /><br />APO is the creator of Africa Wire®, the newswire service for press release distribution and monitoring in Africa. This reaches over 50,000 media outlets, bloggers and social networks, and redistributes content to more than 50 African websites, as well as to Bloomberg Terminal, Thomson Reuters, Lexis Nexis, Dow Jones Factiva, 250 million mobile subscribers in 30 countries, and more.<br /><br />Used by some of the world’s top companies, PR agencies, institutions and organizations, APO Africa Wire® has a potential reach of 600 million and guarantees the most extensive outreach in Africa, where clients can directly target audiences in all corners of the continent and to the world.</span></div> </div>

Social media analysis reporting is offered first within APO’s press release monitoring service

APO ( African Press Organization ), The press release newswire in Africa and the global leader in media relations relating to Africa, toda...

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John Muthee, formerly with GfK, joins GeoPoll to lead client services and business development alongside the rapidly growing GeoPoll team in key African markets

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://www.geopoll.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">GeoPoll</a><span style="font-size: large;">, the world’s largest real-time mobile survey platform, today announced the hire of John Muthee as VP of Business Development in Africa. Muthee will drive the strategy and execution of key growth initiatives as GeoPoll expands its mobile survey capabilities across the continent. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The company recently opened a regional hub office in Nairobi and hired several experienced business development veterans, including Wavinya Kiagiri in Kenya, Matt Angus-Hammond in South Africa, and Gordon Grant Biaku in Ghana. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“As GeoPoll becomes the go-to solution for organizations looking to gain insight into African audiences, we’ve expanded accordingly,” said Steve Gutterman, President of GeoPoll. “Our new hires bring valuable market research experience that will be a key asset in addressing our clients’ information needs. John and his business development team will lead our sales efforts and provide clients with insight regarding key markets, demographics, and customer preferences that has heretofore not been available on a real-time basis.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Muthee most recently served as Managing Director for GfK East Africa, where he oversaw the Consumer Choices research division, and all client engagements across the region. In his previous role as Regional Manager at GfK, Muthee coordinated the development of a retail panel across East Africa. Prior to joining GfK, Muthee was Country Manager for Tanzania at The Steadman Group.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Additional new hires bring significant experience in local sales and marketing:</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">● Wavinya Kiagiri, Business Development Director, Media Products for East Africa. Wavinya was formerly Head of Operations for Advertising at Kenya’s Nation Media Group, driving the use of research for sales, product development and strategy. At GeoPoll, Wavinya will be driving the adoption of GeoPoll’s Audience Measurement Service throughout East Africa. Prior to joining the Nation Media Group in 2009, she was the Media Research Director at Steadman Synovate, now Ipsos. Wavinya will be based in Nairobi, Kenya.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">● Gordon Grant Biaku, Business Development Lead for West Africa. Gordon was formerly an Account Director at market research company Millward Brown in West Africa. Based in Accra, Gordon played a pioneering role at establishing Millward Brown’s presence in West Africa. Prior to joining Millward Brown in 2009, Gordon was the Country Manager at Steadman, now Ipsos. Gordon will be based in Accra, Ghana.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">● Matt Angus Hammond, Business Development Lead for Southern Africa. As the Market Insights Director for East and West Africa at Millward Brown, Matt spearheaded the company’s expansion into Africa before moving to South African research house KLA as the African Business Development Director. In October 2013 he took a sabbatical and spent seven months driving through nine countries from Johannesburg to Kinshasa, including a six week journey down the Congo River on a cargo barge. He will be leading GeoPoll’s business development efforts in Southern Africa based out of Johannesburg.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">● Wangui Gikonyo, Business Development, Social Sector, for East Africa. Wangui has experience in both the corporate and social sectors, having worked with leading consumer goods brands, and more recently for several NGOs, including heading The AMREF Flying Doctors Society of Africa and working as Fundraising Director of the Kenya Community Development Foundation. Wangui will be based in Nairobi, Kenya.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This announcement follows GeoPoll’s recent office opening in Nairobi, Kenya, as well as the launch of new product offerings catering to strategic sectors. In June, GeoPoll announced its Audience Measurement Service, and with it, the first ever overnight television ratings for multiple countries in Africa. The service currently represents daily television and radio consumption of over 300 million Africans, and aims to give advertisers and broadcasters an unprecedented, real-time look at viewing habits through individual action.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">GeoPoll has also expanded its subscription services to include surveys on other key sectors, including Health, Finance, and Food & Agriculture. The GeoPoll database now includes more than 200 million users, and is projected to expand to 500 million by the end of the year.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of GeoPoll.</span></div> </div>

John Muthee, formerly with GfK, joins GeoPoll to lead client services and business development alongside the rapidly growing GeoPoll team in key African markets

GeoPoll , the world’s largest real-time mobile survey platform, today announced the hire of John Muthee as VP of Business Development in A...

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The Castle of Good Hope is the latest addition to a pan-African line-up of iconic city monuments lit by Philips during the roadshow

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="yiv3144054070MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_35872" style="padding: 0px;"> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Royal Philips (AEX: PHIA, NYSE: <a href="http://www.philips.com/africaroadshow">PHG</a>),</span><span style="font-size: large;"> the global leader in lighting, today unveiled a stunning lighting makeover of the historic and iconic Castle of Good <a href="http://www.castleofgoodhope.co.za/">Hope</a></span><span style="font-size: large;"> in Cape Town at the conclusion of its fifth consecutive pan-African Cairo to <a href="http://www.philips.com/africaroadshow">Cape Town</a> roadshow</span><span style="font-size: large;">. Philips’ latest LED lighting technology has been utilized to create eye-catching, dynamic and colourful lighting effects that will bring this architectural monument to life, while allowing energy savings of 80% over the traditional lights that are currently used in the Castle.</span></div> <span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_35956" lang="EN-US"><div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The magnificent Castle, which is in the foothills of the iconic Table Mountain, remains a major international tourist attraction, in addition to being an architectural masterpiece with a rich history and unique design. Philips’ visual lighting concept will provide the building with an imposing look, with the world famous Table Mountain acting as a splendid backdrop behind the Castle. Philips has used its innovative Vaya Flood <a href="http://bit.ly/1qBB4fg">LED</a>  range combing a spectrum of red, blue and green lighting creating an almost mythical atmosphere around the Castle that brings history to life. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Philips enlivens marquee Castle in World Design Capital 2014</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“Philips is very proud to have placed its know-how and technology at the service of this iconic monument” says JJ van Dongen, Senior Vice President and CEO, Philips Africa. “For us the challenge was to devise effective lighting that would enhance the beauty of the site without at any time overwhelming it. We are very delighted by the final results and hope that this enhanced lighting will improve the tourism value of the Castle; in addition, we believe that this spectacular illumination of the Castle of Good Hope contributes hugely to Cape Town’s unique distinction as the World Design <a href="http://www.wdccapetown2014.com/">Capital of 2014</a>”.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The Castle of Good Hope </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. Constructed between 1666 and 1679 by the Dutch East India Company, it was once a fort, but today functions as a museum of the Cape’s early days. It is an example of a “star fort”, and attracts thousands of visitors annually. The spectacular Philips LED lighting is likely to significantly improve the tourism and marketing value of the monument.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“We are delighted with this historic project Philips has completed at the Castle of Good Hope,” states Mr Calvyn Gilfellan, CEO, of the Castle of Good Hope. “It is great that the iconic Table Mountain will now have a wonderfully well-lit Castle at its feet. We are extremely proud to work in the Castle of Good Hope; to see the visual and perceptual transformation of this historic building to such an extent is magnificent and a real credit to Philips. With the spotlight now firmly on us, our goal - to bring the people to the Castle and take the Castle to the people - has now received a significant boost”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The advantages of the LED lighting provided at the Castle of Good Hope include:</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• Dynamic lighting that makes it possible to adjust the atmosphere of the site (change of intensity and color).</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• A longer lifespan of the installation: around 50,000 hours compared to 12,000 hours with conventional lighting.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• A reduction in maintenance costs: LED luminaires require little maintenance, while at the same time they cut energy consumption by 80%.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The fifth pan-African Cairo to Cape Town roadshow</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Cape Town is the final stop on Philips’ annual flagship Cairo to Cape Town roadshow which focuses on key challenges facing Africa today - the need for energy-efficient lighting and the revitalization of African healthcare infrastructure. The roadshow kicked off in Cairo on 14th April 2014 and concluded today, 4 September, in Cape Town visiting 10 cities and 7 countries enroute.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Philips had committed to lighting up and illuminating iconic monuments in every country visited during the roadshow and it delivered this commitment by providing a stunning lighting makeover of historic, well-recognized monuments in African cities including The Baron Place in Cairo, the Maqam Echahid in Algiers, the Wilaya City Hall of Casablanca, Kenya National Archives building in Nairobi, Nigerian National Arts Theatre in Lagos and the historic Black Star Monument in Accra.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">JJ van Dongen summarizes, “Although we are concluding our fifth Pan-African roadshow, Philips remains dedicated to continuing the engagements, partnerships and commitments we have made on this journey. Issues like Mother and child care and energy efficiency are of high priority for policy makers and societies. Philips recognizes this need and will continue to create dialogue and cooperation between governments and non-governmental organizations, between public and private stakeholders. Philips remains committed to Africa which is an important growth market to us.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of Royal Philips</span><i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_35957"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white;">.</span></span></i></div> </span></div>

The Castle of Good Hope is the latest addition to a pan-African line-up of iconic city monuments lit by Philips during the roadshow

Royal Philips (AEX: PHIA, NYSE: PHG ),  the global leader in lighting, today unveiled a stunning lighting makeover of the historic and i...

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Presidents Obasanjo and Mbeki recognized that the solution to the current crisis was within the reach of the peoples of South Sudan

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">he African Union Commission of Inquiry on South Sudan (<a href="http://www.au.int/">AUCISS</a>) </span><span style="font-size: large;"> met with President Thabo Mbeki, in his capacity as Chairperson of the High Level Implementation Panel on Sudan, today 4 September 2014. In attendance were President Olusegun Obasanjo, Professor Mahmood Mamdani and Lady Justice Sophia Akuffo.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The meeting follows nation wide consultations earlier undertaken by the AUCISS with key stakeholders across the spectrum of the South Sudanese society. This meeting constitutes another level of consultation which President Obasanjo observed as ‘providing us an opportunity to receive insight and possible proposals from President Mbeki and the high-level panel, for a lasting solution towards healing, reconciliation, accountability and institutional reform”. The two former Presidents engaged in a frank and open manner and they both noted the complementarity of the mandates of the two processes.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">President Obasanjo chairs the AUCISS, which was established by the Peace and Security Council of the African Union at Summit level, in the wake of heightened tensions and violence in South Sudan from December 15 2013 to the present. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> The High Level Implementation Panel, on the other hand, was established in 2009, to undertake the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement which (amongst others) led to the independence of South Sudan. The mandate of the Panel includes the supporting of institutional reforms, promotion of reconciliation as well as democracy in the Republic of South Sudan and Sudan. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Presidents Obasanjo and Mbeki recognized that the solution to the current crisis was within the reach of the peoples of South Sudan but also requires an active supportive role from the regional structures, particularly, the Inter – Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU) and the broader international community.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The Commission of Inquiry will continue to meet (between 4 and 6 September) with other various stakeholders at the African Union Headquarters including holding a briefing session with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, HE Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of the African Union Commission (AUC).</span></div> </div>

Presidents Obasanjo and Mbeki recognized that the solution to the current crisis was within the reach of the peoples of South Sudan

he African Union Commission of Inquiry on South Sudan ( AUCISS )  met with President Thabo Mbeki, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Hi...

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AFP has a clear strategy to strengthen and enhance its coverage of Africa in all mediums

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="yiv6446622144MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_33225" style="padding: 0px;"> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Global news agency Agence France Presse (<a href="http://www.afp.com/">AFP</a>) </span><span style="font-size: large;"> has announced that it’s English news content will no longer be available via SAPA (South African Press Association) in the new year.</span></div> <span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_33370" lang="EN-US"><div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Harry Lee-Rudolph, Commercial Manager for AFP southern Africa said “SAPA and AFP has had a long and mutually beneficial relationship and the decision to withdraw our news service from SAPA was not taken lightly. However, the changing media landscape in South Africa has necessitated the exploration of new commercial approaches in keeping with AFP’s growth goals for the African region”.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">AFP has a clear strategy to strengthen and enhance its coverage of Africa in all mediums. “From a commercial perspective we will focus on supplying clients a comprehensive media package to address all needs in terms of content and platform” Lee-Rudolph said.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">AFP has 200 bureaus across the world in 150 countries of which 18 bureaus are based in sub-Saharan Africa. AFP’s English news wire delivers some 600 dispatches a day on world and African news. It offers varied and wide-ranging coverage on international news, politics, economics, social issues, sport, culture and science.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of </span><i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_33371"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Agence France-Presse (AFP).</span></span></i></div> </span></div>

AFP has a clear strategy to strengthen and enhance its coverage of Africa in all mediums

Global news agency Agence France Presse ( AFP )  has announced that it’s English news content will no longer be available via SAPA (Sout...

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DHL Express has grown its retail footprint in sub-Saharan Africa by an astonishing 1,000% in less than three years

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Staying true to its reputation for speed, passion, teamwork and a can-do attitude, <a href="http://www.dpdhl.com/">DHL </a>Express</span><span style="font-size: large;"> has grown its retail footprint in sub-Saharan Africa by an astonishing 1,000% in less than three years.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">In what could become a business school case study, the company’s number of service points increased from 300 to over 3,300, not by building its own bricks and mortar branches but by partnering with local business owners who act as DHL resellers. Thousands of vendors – such as an electronics store in West Africa, a travel agent in East Africa and a small grocery shop in Southern Africa – now allow their customers to send DHL shipments alongside their normal offerings.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">These small businesses benefit from commission on all DHL sales, an increase in foot traffic as well as being associated with a global brand.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“It’s really a win-win approach. We having given these small shop owners a unique business opportunity to grow their revenues and gain credibility by aligning themselves with an international brand. If they do well, we do well,” explains Sumesh Rahavendra, head of marketing for DHL Express Sub Saharan Africa.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The company is willing to partner with any entrepreneurial business that sees value in becoming a DHL reseller. All partners are provided with a complete branding kit and go through an extensive training programme to ensure compliance with DHL’s requirements and procedures.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">DHL has also forged similar partnerships with larger companies such as mobile network operators, retail business centres, supermarkets and fuel retailers.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Not only is partnering with existing vendors more cost effective than building its own branches, it also brings DHL closer to its customers. An entrepreneur in Ghana can send a sample to a client in the US from the same place he picks up his daily newspaper, whereas a mother in Mauritius is now able to ship a birthday gift to her son in France while her car is being filled up at the fuel station.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">DHL also simplified its pricing and packaging options to fit in with the needs of its customers as opposed to the other way around. To make people aware of its retail offering, the streets of Africa are often painted yellow and red through tactical advertising campaigns involving dancing, singing and special DHL giveaways.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“Through the passion and energy of our 4,000 employees across Sub Saharan Africa, we have changed the perception that DHL only caters for multinationals and big business. Our retail customers no longer have to sit in traffic to send a document or parcel, but can literally find a DHL service point right around the corner,” says Rahavendra. “Perhaps most gratifying is the fact that we are empowering business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs across Africa with an additional opportunity to earn money and live better.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">He tells the story of a DHL reseller in Kenya whose mobile phone accessories shop is located right opposite a DHL corporate-owned store. When asked why customers would ship with her rather than go to the fully-branded DHL outlet, she said the average person relates much better with her shop, perceiving it to be affordable and less formal than the one across the road.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“In a continent like Africa where the informal economy rules, a company’s retail strategy cannot revolve around high-end shopping malls,” adds Rahavendra. “You have to operate on a level where customers can understand, feel and relate to your product. You really need to ensure that your brand connects to the average person on the street,” concludes Rahavendra.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of Deutsche Post DHL.</span></div> <div class="yiv1695452609MsoNoSpacing" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_31771" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; padding: 0px;"> <br /></div> </div>

DHL Express has grown its retail footprint in sub-Saharan Africa by an astonishing 1,000% in less than three years

African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Staying true to its reputation for speed, passion, teamwork and a can-do attitude, DHL Express  has g...

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Orphaned schoolchildren benefit from new and advanced education and e-learning tools supported by superior communications

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">SkyVision Global Networks <a href="http://www.skyvision.net/">Ltd</a>.</span><span style="font-size: large;">, a leading global communications provider, today announced the recent donation of its satellite connectivity solutions to further support students at Ghana’s Crossover International Academy. SkyVision’s donation included upgrading the academy’s communications equipment with the support of VT iDirect, and providing Internet connectivity for an additional year, enabling students to access online educational programs and related e-learning tools. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">In 2013, the first phase of this charitable project was initiated jointly by SkyVision and iDirect, a world leader in satellite-based IP communications technology. SkyVision’sSkyDirect VSAT service based on iDirect’s platform was installed and deployed throughout the academy, delivering reliable Internet access to all students.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Located in the remote village of Tongor-Attokrokpo, Ghana, all of Crossover’s students are orphans, supported by charitable donations from around the globe. SkyVision’s extension project will provide quality satellite communications throughout the school, considered by the faculty, as a ‘lifeline’ for continued learning. Internet provides the students with access to streaming video, social media, and email, and offers online programs such as the Khan Academy for mathematics, and PRO for reading and comprehension. The extended Internet service will enable over 250 students to enjoy the benefits of global connectivity, enjoying online programming in the classroom and the opportunity to communicate with the outside world, far removed from their remote villages. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“Without SkyVision stepping up and once again, donating a second year of Internet service, we would have been forced to shut down our e-learning programs, comments James Conti, Co-Founder and CEO, Wings for Crossover. “Seeing the joy in the students’ faces every morning reminds us how much they appreciate this truly generous gift.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Chad Cooper, Co-Founder, Wings for Crossover, adds, “SkyVision has enabled our students to be educated and to rise above their often difficult circumstances. As a result of SkyVision’s generosity, these children will have the chance to break the cycle of poverty through education, make better lives for themselves, and for the generations to follow.” </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“We are both proud and honored to support Crossover and the many students in need of education. It has been a pleasure to follow and be part of this important and life-changing project”, stated Tzvika Zaiffer, Director of Product Management & Marketing. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Ori Watermann, SkyVision CEO, comments, “We are committed to giving back to the global communities in which we work and education is a fundamental stepping stone towards these children’s growth and success. This project is proof of the significance and importance of satellite communications in education. SkyVision is proud to support the future in this developing nation, starting with its children, it’s most vital resource.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of SkyVision Global Networks Ltd.</span></div> </div>

Orphaned schoolchildren benefit from new and advanced education and e-learning tools supported by superior communications

SkyVision Global Networks Ltd . , a leading global communications provider, today announced the recent donation of its satellite connectiv...

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There were more than 57 public days off throughout African nations in July 2014 alone

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">APO (African Press <a href="http://www.apo-opa.com/">Organization</a>)</span><span style="font-size: large;">, the only press release newswire in Africa and the global leader in media relations relating to Africa, today released a calendar of non-working days in <a href="http://www.apo-opa.com/calendar.php">Africa</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"> to assist professionals with pan-African responsibility in scheduling their activities.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">There were over 57 days of holidays in Africa during July 2014 mainly due to public holidays in different countries.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">To save time and unnecessary headaches, checking the list of holidays in Africa becomes a must for any professional working across the continent or even within different regions.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">"As a company providing services on a pan-African scale, we understand how non-working days can affect successful activities and objectives in Africa. Many working professionals and organizations operating in several African countries will benefit from this free tool as much as we do," said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, APO founder and CEO.</span></div> </div>

There were more than 57 public days off throughout African nations in July 2014 alone

APO (African Press Organization ) , the only press release newswire in Africa and the global leader in media relations relating to Africa,...

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Mikoa ya kanda ya kati yatarajiwa kufaidika na hudama ya afya

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Mikoa Sita ya Kanda ya Kati ya Tanzania inatarajiwa kufaidika na huduma za Afya zilizolengwa kutolewa baada ya kukamilika kwa mradi mkubwa wa Kimataifa wa Ujenzi wa Hospitali ya Rufaa ya Mkoa Singida ambayo tayari mwaka uliopita imeshaanza kutoa huduma za akina mama na Watoto.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Hospitali hiyo yenye vitanda 1,000 vya kulazwa wagonjwa wa maradhi mbali mbali imeshatumia shilingi za Kitanzania Bilioni 68 katika hatua ya awali ya ujenzi wake ambapo kukamilika kwake itafikia gharama ya shilingi Bilioni Mia Tatu na Sitini na Moja.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Mganga Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Singida Dr. Dorothy Gwajima alisema hayo wakati wa ziara ya Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar Balozi Seif Ali Iddi alipokuwa akikagua harakati za maendeleo ya ujenzi wa Hospitali hiyo unaofanyika katika eneo la Mandewa Veta akiaga rasmi baada ya kumaliza jukumu lake la ulezi wa Mkoa wa Singida Kichama.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Dorothy alimueleza Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar kwamba Mashirika Mawili ya Hifadhi ya Jamii ya NSSF na PPF yameshajitokeza kuwekeza miradi iliyomo ndani ya ramani ya ujenzi wa Hospitali hiyo lakini kinachohitajika kwa sasa ni Serikali kusimamia dhamana ya miradi hiyo.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Alisema wazo la kuanzishwa kwa mradi huo lililotolewa na Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Singida Dr. Parseko Vicent Koni ni kuwapunguzia usumbufu wananchi wa kanda hiyo kufuata huduma za afya katika Hospitali ya rufaa Muhimbili iliyopo Jijini Dar es salaam.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“ Tunafarajika kwa kuwa na eneo kubwa la mradi wetu linalofikia Hekta 125 kiwango ambacho kwa mujibu wa ramani yetu tuna uwezo pia wa kujenga nyumba za watumishi, maduka, viwanja vya michezo na burudani pamoja na Skuli ya maandalizi na Sekondari “. Alifafanua Dr. Dorothy.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Akitoa pongezi kufuatia uanzishwaji wa mradi huo Hospitali ya Rufaa Mkoa wa Singida Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar Balozi Seif Ali Iddi alisema uwezo na kiwango kuwepo katika Hospitali hiyo kinaweza kutoa huduma pia kwa Watanzania wa maeneo mbali mbali.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Balozi Seif aliwaomba wasimamizi wa mradi huo mkubwa kutovunjika moyo na akaahidi kwamba akiwa kama kiongozi wa juu wa Serikali atahakikisha kwamba juhudi zitachukuliwa na Serikali ili kuona mradi huo unadhaminiwa ili ukamilike kwa wakati uliokusudiwa.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Aliushauri Uongozi wa Hospitali hiyo kuandaa mapema mipango itakayotoa fursa kwa washirika wa maendeleo hasa zile Hospitali kubwa za nje ya Nchi kushirikiana nao katika kuona huduma zitakazotolewa zinalenga kiwango cha Kimataifa.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Akitembelea mradi wa ujenzi wa nyumba za gharama nafuu zinazojengwa na shirika la Nyumba la Taifa Tanzania { NHC } katika Mtaa wa Mandewa Veta Mjini Singida Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar aliushauri uongozi wa shirika hilo ujitahidi kuwapatia nyumba wananchi kwa bei nafuu.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Balozi Seif aliwanasihi wataalamu wa ujenzi wa nyumba hizo kuhakikisha kwamba nyumba wanazojenga zinalingana na mazingira halisi ya wananchi wa maeneo yanayohusika.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Mapema Kaimu Meneja wa Shirika la Nyumba la Taifa Tanzania { NHC } Ndugu Peter Buheja alisema mpango mkakati wa ujenzi wa mradi huo ni kujenga nyumba 15 ambapo hivi sasa tayari nyumba kumi zimeshajengwa.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Nd. Peter alisema changa moto zinazoukabili mradi huo wa ujenzi wa nyumba za gharama nafuu unaotarakiwa kukamilika mwezi oktoba mwaka huu kwa gharama ya shilingi Milioni Mia 959,800,000/- ni pamoja na ukosefu wa bara bara pamoja na huduma za umeme.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Balozi Seif pia alikagua ujenzi wa Vituo vya Afya vya Mtunduru na kuchangia shilingi Milioni 1,000,000/ na ahadi ya matofali 1,000 pamoja na ule ujenzi wa kituo cha afya cha Iyumbu alipochangia pia shilingi milioni 1,000,000/- kwa ununuzi wa saruji ikifuatiwa na ahadi ya Mabati 150.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Akizungumza na wananchi na wana chama wa CCM wa Wilaya hiyo ya Iyumbu katika Mkutano wa hadhara Balozi Seif aliwataka wakulima na Wafugaji wa maeneo ya Ikungi kushirikiana kwa vile mara nyingi huwa wakitegemeana katika shughuli zao za kila siku.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Alisema kumekuwa na migongano ya mara kwa mara kati ya wafugaji na wakulima na wakati mwengine kuleta maafa na mauaji jambo ambalo huzorotesha shughuli zao za uzalishaji pamoja na kujenga chuki baina yao.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Akigusia suala la elimu Balozi Seif aliwaasa wazazi wa Ikungi kusimamia jukumu la taaluma kwa watoto na kuacha tabia ya kuwashirikisha katika masuala ya ufugaji unaodumaza maisha yao ya baadaye.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“ Vijana hivi sasa waachiliwe kutafuta elimu hadi chuo kikuu kiwango ambacho kwa sasa ndicho kinachotazamwa katika masuala ya ajira “. Alisema Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Alifahamisha kwamba suala la elimu hivi sasa ni jambo la lazima. Hivyo juhudi zifanywe ili kuona watoto wote hapa Nchini wanapatiwa haki yao ya kielimu itakayowatengenezea hatma njema ya maisha yao.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Othman Khamis Ame</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Ofisi ya Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar</span></div> </div>

Mikoa ya kanda ya kati yatarajiwa kufaidika na hudama ya afya

Mikoa Sita ya Kanda ya Kati ya Tanzania inatarajiwa kufaidika na huduma za Afya zilizolengwa kutolewa baada ya kukamilika kwa mradi mkubw...

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The 8th Annual Powering Africa: Finance Options Meeting will return to Cape Town from 30-31st October

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">As Africa’s demand for power generation continues to outstrip supply, the question of how to finance the future of Africa’s power sector looms large. Prospective investors must fully understand the latest developments in Africa’s finance sector in order to launch successful projects and build long term relationships with local government.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Private equity investments into Africa were up by 136% in 2013 (with a huge chunk of that going to power and infrastructure projects). Pension funds and sovereign wealth funds are also increasingly looking into long term power projects to fund, with lenders working hard to develop debt financing models to keep up with Africa's power market.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The 8th Annual Powering Africa: Finance Options <a href="http://www.poweringafrica-finance.com/">Meeting</a> will return to Cape Town from 30-31st October. This pan-African executive briefing will welcome CEOs and senior-level directors to get to the heart of the issues and opportunities surrounding the financing of power projects in Africa, allowing for a limited number of participants to engage with key decision-makers through a series of open, uninhibited discussions taking place under Chatham House Rule.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The programme will focus on a series of open discussions chaired by regional experts focusing on key trends including the development of IPP programmes, financial frameworks and regulatory environments.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Confirmed speakers will include Karen Breytenbach, Head: IPP Office, National Treasury, South Africa, Moremi Marwa, Chief Executive Officer, Dar Es Salaam Stock Exchange, Peter Ballinger, Director, U.S.-Africa Clean Energy Development and Finance Centre, Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), and Waziri Bintube, Chief Financial Officer, Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc, who will present regional perspectives and case studies to open the floor for discussion.</span></div> </div>

The 8th Annual Powering Africa: Finance Options Meeting will return to Cape Town from 30-31st October

As Africa’s demand for power generation continues to outstrip supply, the question of how to finance the future of Africa’s power sector l...

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Transforming the lives of millions of people who live in the rural areas of Africa

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Gemalto (<a href="http://www.gemalto.com/">Euronext</a> NL0000400653 GTO)</span><span style="font-size: large;">, the world leader in digital security, is providing M2M connectivity for SOLARKIOSK, a compact, solar powered station transported onboard a mobile vehicle. This cabin features photovoltaic panels across its roof to generate sustainable energy in areas outside of conventional power cabling and infrastructures. Gemalto’s Cinterion® modules deliver rugged M2M connectivity powering a mobile router, provided by INSYS <a href="http://www.insys-tec.de/eng/index.html">icom</a></span><span style="font-size: large;">, which enables condition monitoring of the SOLARKIOSKs’ photovoltaic panels and tracks energy production and consumption through a web interface.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Quick and easy to deploy, the SOLARKIOSKs support simple plug-in access for appliances, devices and broad range of systems. Each kiosk generates enough electricity to operate the cellular router and recharge 220 cell phones in a single day – up to 80 at the same time. The M2M solution provided by Gemalto and INSYS icom monitors and manages the solar panels on a 24/7 basis, tracking energy input and output, providing a reliable system for power delivery to end users, and automatically reporting potential problems.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The SOLARKIOSKs produce sustainable electricity for a variety of services, including refrigerated storage for medicines as well as for consumer products. By delivering these benefits to remote communities, the SOLARKIOSKs are expected to transform the lives of millions of people who live in the rural areas of developing countries. Projects are already operating in Ethiopia, Botswana and Kenya, supplying both power and access to information, in particular for education and creating a social hub for local communities.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“One of the biggest challenges for M2M communication is to properly function in extreme environments such as the intense heat of an African desert or the tremendous moisture of a South American rainforest,” said Michael Gartz, Director Sales and Marketing for INSYS icom. “INSYS icom and Gemalto heavy duty technologies are ideally suited for those areas which are not connected to an electricity grid, such as rural and remote areas in developing countries and districts affected by disasters. An estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide live in such regions, with 600 million in Africa alone and SOLARKIOSK will be there to serve them.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“In many parts of the world, traditional power infrastructures are difficult to set up and quickly become expensive to maintain,” added Thomas Steffen, M2M regional manager at Gemalto. “With SOLARKIOSK, we aspire to play a social role in meeting such Machine-for-Human challenges, whatever the geographical constraints.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of Gemalto.</span></div> </div>

Transforming the lives of millions of people who live in the rural areas of Africa

Gemalto ( Euronext NL0000400653 GTO) , the world leader in digital security, is providing M2M connectivity for SOLARKIOSK, a compact, sol...

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Ebola virus becomes an overwhelming human catastrophe affecting public health, social institutions and economic well-being in Africa

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">In an open letter, former heads of state as well as leaders from civil society and business launch a petition call for more solidarity and a more coordinated approach to deal with the Ebola outbreak in West Africa.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Ebola is having great economic and social impact, more so in a young democracy such as Liberia which has come out of a long and debilitating civil war. The response has often been knee jerk and counter productive, such as the closing of borders and cancelation of flights, something which both the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have denounced.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This call for action, which through a petition is attracting an increasing number of signatories, calls for all citizens to play their role and demands a coordinated and rational response from African governments and international institutions.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">High profile leaders such as former Presidents Mkapa of Tanzania and Obasanjo of Nigeria have signed the petition, as well as Graça Machel, civil society leader and wife of the late President Mandela, the singer and former Minister Youssour N’Dour and a number of prominent leaders and personalities from music, media and business.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">---</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Open letter published in newspapers, magazines and websites across Africa: Citizens Call to Action against Ebola</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">As the Ebola virus becomes an overwhelming human catastrophe affecting public health, social institutions and economic well-being in Africa, we stand in solidarity with our fellow citizens in the countries victimized by this deadly disease.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We also thank and salute the local and international health workers who are risking their lives daily, intervening on the ground to eradicate the scourge of Ebola, often without access to gloves and other protective supplies.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We acknowledge and applaud the decision of the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) health ministers to call for the lifting of travel bans to Ebola affected countries, which are hampering the fight against Ebola and restricting the arrival of essential expertise and equipment, as well as fuel to provide electricity, medications to treat other deadly diseases such as malaria and food to prevent famine.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">In the name and interest of our common humanity, we are collectively launching this urgent Citizens' Call to Action.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We call on our respective Heads of State and Government to avoid full embargo against Ebola-affected states. While we understand the legitimate concerns for the protection of their population, we remind African leaders of their obligation to pan-African solidarity and the global community of their humanitarian obligations in emergencies. We urge the following immediate actions:</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">One</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Ensure that the flow of essential assistance can reach those in need, while maintaining economic activity necessary for sustaining life in cities and villages, by</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• Authorizing and implementing the local recommendations issued by the World Health Organization (WHO)</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• Acknowledging the impossibility of quarantining entire nations and instead establish much-needed economic and humanitarian corridors of access - essential life-lines - both within the affected countries and between countries.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Two</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We call on African opinion leaders – including artists, athletes, filmmakers, writers, journalists, academics – to initiate or to actively take part in public information campaigns on prevention and transmission of the Ebola. These can happen via road-shows, film screenings, theatrical pieces, discussion groups, and the distribution of messages via cellphone networks. And we call upon global opinion leaders to add their talents and voices in support.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Three</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We call on the broad private sector, the pharmaceutical industry, and the research community, in particular, to fund, facilitate and make immediately available access to all known methods of prevention and treatment of this menacing threat to our global well-being.</span><span style="font-size: large;">Signed on August 31, 2014</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President, Federal Republic of Nigeria</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Benjamin Mkapa, Former President Tanzania</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Mrs Graca Machel, President of the Foundation for Community Development</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Bineta Diop , Special Envoy for Women, Peace and Security, African Union</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Youssou N’Dour, Singer</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Ali Mufuruki, InfoTech Investment Group</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of UN-Energy and former Director-General</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Zainab Bangura, Special Representative of UN Secretary General on Sexual Violence in Conflict</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Ashih Thakkar, Founder, MARA Group</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- AKON, Singer</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Frannie Leautier, Founder, Mkoba Group</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Wendy Luhabe, Africa Chairperson, Cartier Foundation for Women Entrepreneurs</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Dele Olojede, Journalist, Pulitzer Prize Winner</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Amadou Mahtar Ba, Executive Chairman, Co Founder AllAfrica Global Media</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Akere Muna, Presiding Officer, AU Economic, Social and Cultural Council</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Mamadou Toure, Founder, Africa 2.0</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Thelma Awori, chair Institute for Social Transformation, former UNDP Director</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Angelle Kwemo, Founder & Chair Believe in Africa</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Linus Gitahi, CEO Nation Media Group</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Ousmane Kane, Harvard University</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Ebrima Sall, Executive Secretary CODESRIA</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Slim Othmani. CEO, NCA-Rouiba, Chairman Algeria Business Council.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Souleymane Bachir Diagne, Columbia University</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Alioune Sall, Director, African Futures Institute, South Africa ,</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Mamadou Diouf, Columbia University</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Trevor Ncube, Deputy Executive Chair, Mail&Guardian</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Omar Ben Yedder, Director IC Publications</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and CEO, APO (African Press Organization)</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Oulimata Sarr, Country Coordinator, IFC Advisory Services</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Férial Haffajee, Editor In Chief, City Press</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Zyad Limam, Director Afrique Magazine</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Aminata Forna, Professor of Creative Writing and award-winning author</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Mahen Bonetti, Founder & Executive Director of African Film Festival, Inc.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Fatou Wurie, Activist</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Aliou Goloko, CEO Goal Communication</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Reed Kramer, CEO, AllAfrica Global Media</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Aly Leno, Président Union des Journalistes Culturels et Animateurs de Guinée )</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Tidiane Soumah, PDG Todoane World Music</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Dr Tendai Mhizha, CEO Integra Africa</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Samba Bathily, PDG ADS</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Cheikh Ibrahima Niang, UCAD</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Penda Mbow, UCAD</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Anyang' Nyong'o, former minister, Kenya</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Dr Tami Hultman, CEO AllAfrica Foundation</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Soyata Maiga, Special Rapporteur on Women Human Rights in Africa</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Harriette Williams Bright, Femmes Africa Solidarité</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Isham Elgar Olympic and World Champion</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Younes Maamar CEO Eone Investments</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Fatima Harrak, President CODESRIA, Mohamed V Souissi, University.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Kwadwo Ansah Koram, Director Noguchi Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Adam Habib, Vice Chancellor, University of Witwatersrand</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Olive Shisana, CEO, Human Sciences Research Council</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">- Prof. Suren Pilley, University of Western Cape</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of the Citizens Call to Action against Ebola.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> </div>

Ebola virus becomes an overwhelming human catastrophe affecting public health, social institutions and economic well-being in Africa

In an open letter, former heads of state as well as leaders from civil society and business launch a petition call for more solidarity and...

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The 2 day Summit will focus on strategies, opportunities and the challenges affecting the aviation industry in Africa

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="yiv4573944164MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_14163" style="padding: 0px;"> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.aviationafrica.aero/">Aviation</a> Africa 2015</span><span style="font-size: large;"> is a 2-day Summit & Exhibition, which takes place 10-11 May 2015 in Dubai, UAE. NEXUS from Saudi Arabia and Wyvern Consulting from USA have joined up with this event to become main sponsors.</span></div> <span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_14195" lang="EN-US"><div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The link with these two companies is a perfect fit for the Aviation Africa event, which has launched to address the growth opportunities in the African continent for the aviation industry. NEXUS, which launched in 2010 and is based in Jeddah has opened a regional office in Rwanda and already identified the opportunities the region can offer. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> Wyvern Consulting is a U.S. company providing safety intelligence data and onsite risk assessments to business and private aviation communities for over 20 years. NEXUS are now their international partner covering the Middle East, Asia and Africa regions.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The 2 day Summit will focus on strategies, opportunities and the challenges affecting the industry. A key focus area will be the safety challenges in the region. NEXUS provides Flight Operations and Support with a massive commitment to safety and with Wyvern Consulting supplying the safety intelligence data, this partnership will have a lot to contribute to this focus area.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Alan Peaford, Managing Director of Aerocomm Ltd and responsible for creating the Summit’s 2 day programme said: “We are delighted to welcome Nexus and Wyvern Consulting to the Aviation Africa 2015 event. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> I recently visited Nexus at their head office in Jeddah and was very impressed with their level of service across the business aviation sector and their level of commitment to safety, security and people. We will be covering all these topics in our Summit programme and it is companies like Nexus and Wyvern that will be important contributors to the Summit discussions”.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of Aviation Africa 2015</span><i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1410086394738_14196"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white;">.</span></span></i></div> </span></div>

The 2 day Summit will focus on strategies, opportunities and the challenges affecting the aviation industry in Africa

Aviation Africa 2015  is a 2-day Summit & Exhibition, which takes place 10-11 May 2015 in Dubai, UAE. NEXUS from Saudi Arabia and W...

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