Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF) gets a new Executive Director

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-02wun_F3Nlc/VUwwYhM3JfI/AAAAAAAAF1s/OM0Q352DNXo/s1600/tausi.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-02wun_F3Nlc/VUwwYhM3JfI/AAAAAAAAF1s/OM0Q352DNXo/s400/tausi.png" width="376" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The Board of Trustees of the Economic and Social Research Foundation (</span><a href="http://www.esrftz.org/" style="font-size: x-large;">ESRF</a><span style="font-size: large;">) announces the appointment of Dr. Tausi Mbaga Kida as the new Executive Director of the Foundation with effect from 1st May 2015.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">She will be the fourth Executive Director since ESRF was established in 1994 under the leadership of Prof. Samuel Wangwe.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">She takes over from Dr. Hoseana Bohela Lunogelo, whose tenure of office ended on the 30th April 2015. Dr. Hoseana Bohela Lunogelo will continue to be a Senior Advisor and Principal Research Associate to ESRF.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Dr. Tausi Mbaga Kida is a Development Economist by profession with over 15 years of experience in programme management, capacity development and socio-economic research. She holds a PhD in Development Economics from Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands and MA in Economics (University of Dar es Salaam). She also holds BA Degree in Economics (University of Dar es Salaam). </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Prior to her appointment to the post of Executive Director, Dr. Kida was the Director of Programmes at ESRF since February 2011. Dr. Kida has authored a number of publications including chapters in books and articles in international journals. Some of her recent engagements include taking leading role in consultation process in the development of Post MDGs Agenda in 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;">Dr. Kida played a technical and coordination role in directing the process of producing Tanzania Human Development Report 2014 “Economic Transformation for Human Development” for which she was the Project Manager. She is also a member of Regional Steering Committee for developing East Africa Vision 2050.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Her main challenges at ESRF will be to continue consolidating the Foundation’s mandate as the centre of excellence in policy research relevant for guiding sustainable growth and development in Tanzania and the region. She will be out for collaboration with stakeholders in the public and private sectors. ESRF is actively engaged in social economic policy research, policy dialogue and programmes for capacity development of both government and non-state actors in Tanzania.</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 Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF).</span></div> </div>

Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF) gets a new Executive Director

The Board of Trustees of the Economic and Social Research Foundation ( ESRF ) announces the appointment of Dr. Tausi Mbaga Kida as the n...

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First-ever Aviation Africa to bring together world’s leading airlines, ministers and authorities including IATA, Rwandair, CAA Ghana, to discuss untapped market’s significant opportunities

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hYoF9VHve3E/VUwu-qKlDqI/AAAAAAAAF1g/HBIhPbPMK_E/s1600/trip.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hYoF9VHve3E/VUwu-qKlDqI/AAAAAAAAF1g/HBIhPbPMK_E/s400/trip.png" width="298" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Aviation Africa 2015 which opens on 10th May at Le Meridien Hotel, Dubai will underscore the immense potential of the African aviation market. The two-day event, held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al Maktoum, President of Dubai’s Department of Civil Aviation and Chairman of Emirates Airline, has been established to forge a crucial dialogue among the aviation industry’s leading stakeholders on the social, economic and political benefits to be gained from wide-ranging improvements to the infrastructure in Africa.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Aviation in Africa currently supports more than 6.9 million jobs and over $800 billion in GDP across African nations. But this is nothing compared with what it can become. Annually, a further 155,000 jobs and $1.3 billion in GDP can be added through the effective liberalisation of just 12 key markets, including Ghana, Kenya and South Africa among others, according to an independent report published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).</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;"><br /></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;">“If you look at the sheer potential of just a handful of African airlines, routes and airports, you realise just how enormous an impact Africa can have on the future of aviation, and moreover you can clearly see just how beneficial a progressive aviation industry can be for the socio-economic future of the continent,” says Alan Peaford MBE, event organiser and summit Chairman.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“Geographically, it’s ideally located right next to well-established hubs in the Gulf, and is able to capitalise on the passenger and cargo traffic already streaming through the region.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“Aviation Africa 2015 will fill a void in the aviation calendar and give Africa a real chance to progress quickly, effectively and safely,” he adds.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Africa’s prospective growth, as well as the potentially vital role the Middle East’s aviation industry can play in the creation of a burgeoning African market will be the focal point of the various case studies and panels at Aviation Africa 2015.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Hon. Dzifa Aku Attivor, Minister of Transport for Ghana, will present the Keynote Address. The Ghanian transport minister is one in a long list of top-level industry speakers, delegates and experts who will share ideas and experiences with their Middle Eastern counterparts to bring Africa’s inevitably pivotal role in the future of aviation front and centre.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“There are many striking similarities between the Middle Eastern aviation market of 20 years ago and the African market of today,” says Alan Peaford</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“The many experiences Gulf carriers, airports and regulators underwent as they grew to become the centre-ground of the global aviation space are bound to be similar to the issues that will arise in Africa as the continent’s nations begin to put their efforts and resources behind their aviation industry. Africa would do well to discuss, listen and learn from their Middle Eastern counterparts,” Peaford adds.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Discussing the role of the regulators at Aviation Africa 2015 will be Laila Ali Hareb Al Muhairi, Assistant Director General for Strategy and International Affairs, of the UAE’s civil aviation authority (the GCAA), Dr Hamdi Chaouk, former director general for aviation in Lebanon; Abdulai Alhassan, director general, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and Mohamed Rahma, Undersecretary for international affairs, Egypt.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Speakers confirmed from African and Middle East airlines already include Girma Wake, chairman, RwandAir (formerly CEO, Ethiopian Airlines); Yves Naninque, CCO ECAir; Many other CEOs and COOs are attending including Africa’s leading cargo operator Astral Aviation, South African Airlines and Daallo Airlines. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">One session of particular note will see Ed Winter, CEO of Fastjet – Tanzania’s low cost carrier which has been enjoying great success since its launch in 2011 – he is on a panel with Air Arabia’s group chief executive, Adel Ali, exploring the impact LCCs have had on the aviation industry in the region.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Alan Peaford, said: “We are really pleased with the support we are getting from the industry across all levels of government, as well as airlines of all shapes and sizes.</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;">“This is going to be a great networking event and an intriguing summit. Of course there is a frisson between many African carriers and the local airlines in the Middle East but it wasn’t that long ago that the likes of Emirates and Qatar Airways were in the same position as the African carriers are now and they have found many different ways around global and regional challenges,” Peaford says.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“It’s really exciting to see some of the new and smaller carriers represented at the event. There is a great hunger for the knowledge that will get this growth challenge right.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Dr Nicklas Dahlstrom, human factors manager, Emirates Airline, will be discussing the challenges of multi-cultural workforces and the threat to safety of human performance.</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;">There are also senior figures from aviation authorities and associations, who include Hussein Dabbas, VP Africa & Middle East, IATA; Tawanda Gusha, Director Airports, Civil Aviation Authority, Zimbabwe and Paul Murphy, vice president, Africa, SITA.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The event also features an exhibition with over 40 companies including Boeing, Jeppesen, African Open Sky, Ethiopian Airlines and Astral Aviation. The event is supported by AFRAA – African Airlines Association, AfBAA – African Business Aviation Association and the Gold Sponsors are UAE International Trip Support and DAE – Dubai Aerospace <a href="http://www.aviationafrica.aero./">Enterprise</a>. </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></div> </div>

First-ever Aviation Africa to bring together world’s leading airlines, ministers and authorities including IATA, Rwandair, CAA Ghana, to discuss untapped market’s significant opportunities

Aviation Africa 2015 which opens on 10th May at Le Meridien Hotel, Dubai will underscore the immense potential of the African aviation ...

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Maalim Seif kugombea urais tena

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jUHD7vfzxDw/VUwtinqjkmI/AAAAAAAAF1Q/k7NA2t89-ts/s1600/ud3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jUHD7vfzxDw/VUwtinqjkmI/AAAAAAAAF1Q/k7NA2t89-ts/s400/ud3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Na: Hassan Hamad (OMKR)</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Katibu Mkuu wa Chama Cha Wananchi CUF Mhe. Maalim Seif Sharif Hamad, amethibitisha nia yake ya kugombea tena nafasi ya Urais wa Zanzibar katika uchaguzi mkuu ujao.</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 katika hafla iliyoandaliwa na kamati maalum ya (CUF) Zoni ya Mjini iliyokwenda kumdhamini kugombea nafasi hiyo huko nyumbani kwake Mbweni, Maalim Seif amesema anatarajia kugombea tena nafasi hiyo ili aweze kutimiza ndoto yake ya kuwatumikia wananchi.</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;">Kamati hiyo ya CUF Zoni ya Mjini imemdhamini Maalim Seif kwa fedha taslim shilingi milioni mbili na laki tano, ili iweze kuchukua fomu ya kugombea nafasi ya Urais wa Zanzibar wakati utakapofika.</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;">Maalim Seif ameishukuru kamati hiyo kwa uamuzi wa busara waliochukua, hali inayoonyesha kuwa wananchi wa Zanzibar wanaendelea kuwa na imani naye kutokana na mwelekeo wake wa kutaka kuleta mabadiliko ya kweli kwa 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;">Amesema iwapo wananchi watakipa ridhaa Chama hicho kuongoza Serikali ya Umoja wa Kitaifa baada ya uchaguzi mkuu wa Oktoba mwaka huu, kitatandika misingi imara ya utawala bora, uchumi na kuendeleza umoja na mshikamano miongoni mwa wananchi.</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;">Ameyataja mambo mengine ya msingi kuwa ni pamoja na kurejesha heshima ya Zanzibar katika jamii ya Kimataifa, kuimarisha huduma za kijamii ziliwemo afya na elimu, pamoja kuandaa mazingira ya kuongeza ajira kwa vijana.</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;">Amesema tofauti na chaguzi zilizopita, Chama hicho kimejiandaa vizuri kwa ajili ya uchaguzi mkuu ujao, na kuwaomba wananchi waendelee kukiunga mkono ili kiweze kupata ushindi mkubwa na kuweza kuongoza serikali.</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 akisoma risala ya kamati maalum ya (CUF) zoni ya mjini, mjumbe wa kamati hiyo Bw. Salim Abdallah Salim amesema wameamua kumdhamini Maalim Seif kutokana na utendaji wake ndani ya chama hicho pamoja na matumaini aliyonayo kwa Wanzibari.</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;">Aidha kamati hiyo imetoa tamko rasmi la kumuunga mkono Maalim Seif kugombea nafasi ya Urais wa Zanzibar wakati utakapofika, na kutoa wito kwa vijana kutafuta vitambulisho vya Mzanzibar Mkaazi (ZAN ID) na kujiandikisha katika daftari la kudumu la wapiga kura, ili waweze kushiriki katika uchaguzi mkuu ujao.</span></div> </div>

Maalim Seif kugombea urais tena

Na: Hassan Hamad (OMKR) Katibu Mkuu wa Chama Cha Wananchi CUF Mhe. Maalim Seif Sharif Hamad, amethibitisha nia yake ya kugombea tena n...

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SOUND VISION AND POLITICAL WILL ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THE TRANSFORMATION OF AFRICA'S CITIES

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtiVp6aYxUc/VUwsx9VGp_I/AAAAAAAAF1I/nGH0msZ50FE/s1600/dsm.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtiVp6aYxUc/VUwsx9VGp_I/AAAAAAAAF1I/nGH0msZ50FE/s400/dsm.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The 2nd Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIFF) in Luanda saw a number of African ministers and leaders of cities gather to discuss a range of issues relating to the development of African cities and how to deal with rising urbanisation on the continent. Africa has 52 cities with over 1million people, which is similar to Europe. However Africa, where 40% of the population live in urban areas is not as urbanised as Asia, with 50% of urban dwellers or Latin America, with 60%.</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;">In many of the presentations and panel discussions at the Forum, there was much talk of public private partnerships. This is because the public sector, that is government and local municipalities, simply don't have the funds to build all the necessary houses and provide all the services to this growing population. Some 4m housing units are needed in Africa every year for example. However, the private sector present at the Luanda meeting highlighted the need for transparency, consistency and the right frameworks - if investment into infrastructure is going to take place. There is interest in investment in the power sector, for example, but as infrastructure investment is recouped over a 25-year or an even longer time frame, certainty over the rules and regulations, as well as competition rules need to be established and clear. </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 opening ceremony was hosted by HE Manuel Domingos Vicente, Vice - President of Republic of Angola, with participation from local and international representatives from various sectors in over 20 countries. He said that over a decade ago, Angola's urban population consisted less than 50% of the total population. However, as a result of the Government's urbanisation initiative, numbers have increased exponentially, with 75% of the population now inhabiting the urban areas. </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;">Angola's Minister for Urbanism and Habitat, Hon José António da Conceição e Silva, said that at the current rate of urban expansion "Africa will need to build 4 million new houses every year, in order to meet its demands".</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;">Delivering his keynote address, HE Pedro Pires, Former President of Cape Verde, winner of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation African Leadership Prize and Honorary Member of the UCLG-A reiterated the need to address the causes for rural/urban migration in addition to creating cities that are dynamic, wealthy, safe and beautiful, and have the potential to generate employment. </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;">Africa is the fastest urbanising continent in the world, but this migration needs to be controlled or else we will create some urban sprawls and slums, he concluded.</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;">Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, UCLG-A Secretary General stressed the urgent need to develop and implement urban infrastructure investment plans, with an emphasis on financing "in order to curb the current infrastructure backlogs and enhance the attractiveness and competitiveness of African cities". Meanwhile, Aisa Kacyira, UN Assistant Secretary General and Deputy Executive Director for UN-Habitat, highlighted the importance and strategic nature of AUIFF, saying that the Forum was essential in moving Africa towards to the development and empowerment of local economies.</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;">Empowering cities also mean taking into consideration the needs of the people and the African culture and way of life, especially in terms of urban developments. The realities of our life, our living conditions are often not taken into consideration. For example, affordable housing units are often 'imported' with only 30% of the material used for these being local. Designers and planners therefore need to ensure that in the future, Africa makes use of its own resources and its own cultural way of life when designing and planning new developments and transformational plans.</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 new "Kilamba" centrality in Luanda was showcased as one of Angola's most successful urban projects. Supported by the Angolan Government, which provided 100 thousands hectares for the development of 18 provinces, Kilamba now has 400 thousand affordable houses. Previously seen as a "white elephant", this centrality has now become a success story and a blueprint for others to replicate.</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;">Property rights also remain among the most important issues affecting Africa's urbanisation. Dar es Salaam, in Tanzania, was presented as a successful case, where a high level of property registrations has helped to build social cohesion. However, regulating property ownership means effective communication and collaboration between property owners and local governments. AUIFF participants concluded that elsewhere in the world, property rights have resulted in wealth creation and have proven to be catalysts for transformation.</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 Forum was organised by IC Events, the events division of IC Publications, publishers of African Business magazine. The next edition of the Forum will take place in Johannesburg in December.</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;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by African Media Agency on behalf of Africa Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF).</span></div> </div>

SOUND VISION AND POLITICAL WILL ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THE TRANSFORMATION OF AFRICA'S CITIES

The 2nd Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIFF) in Luanda saw a number of African ministers and leaders of cities gather to discus...

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Statement from Brand South Africa on the progress made by South Africa in response to the violent crimes committed in the country

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3jVTGPtFGnI/VUwsPdsx7QI/AAAAAAAAF1A/wZQu3tmaFfY/s1600/sa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3jVTGPtFGnI/VUwsPdsx7QI/AAAAAAAAF1A/wZQu3tmaFfY/s400/sa.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Brand South <a href="http://www.brandsouthafrica.com/">Africa</a></span><span style="font-size: large;"> has participated in a number of platforms aimed at condemning the violent crimes committed in the past few weeks and implementation of interventions to quell the violence.</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;">True to the spirit and letter of the South African constitution (which puts emphasis on the rule of law), all hands were on deck in the past week in acts of condemnation to the crimes committed against fellow human beings that led to the death offour nationals from various countries in our beloved continentand three South Africans.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">President Jacob Zuma visited various camps, where foreign national are temporarily sheltered, to assure them that the government and the people of South Africa will do everything to ensure their safety in the country. As such the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) was deployed to the hotspots to reinforce the efforts of the South African Police Service (SAPS).</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">A multi stakeholder session was held with the President wherein all sectors of the South African society pledged their support to Play their Part in ensuring that South Africa is rid of all acts of criminality. The President announced the establishment of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Immigration to provide a long term solution to the challenges in the area of immigration in South Africa.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The President also met with representatives of foreign nationals from our continent wherein they shared with him their perspective on these crimes and possible interventions. The African Heads of Mission in South Africa will be updated on all developments with regards to immigration related matters.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Brand South Africa calls on all African Nation Brands to Play a Part in building Africa’s Competitiveness and support each other’s efforts in order for Africa to prosper collectively. </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 Brand South Africa.</span></div> </div>

Statement from Brand South Africa on the progress made by South Africa in response to the violent crimes committed in the country

Brand South Africa  has participated in a number of platforms aimed at condemning the violent crimes committed in the past few weeks and...

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The cities of Accra in Ghana, Kinondoni in Tanzania and Praia in Cape Verde win the inaugural José Eduardo dos Santos African Mayor Awards

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfGS-PAoQtM/VUOputTA5EI/AAAAAAAAF0s/hKUNcaBehwE/s1600/2dccc37a-45a7-4a05-a4c1-772a053fb6ef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfGS-PAoQtM/VUOputTA5EI/AAAAAAAAF0s/hKUNcaBehwE/s1600/2dccc37a-45a7-4a05-a4c1-772a053fb6ef.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The winners of the inaugural 2015 "José Eduardo dos Santos African Mayor Awards" have been announced in Luanda, Angola. These awards acknowledge the leadership and contribution made by Mayors of large, medium and small cities and celebrate achievements and excellence in urban development 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;">The winning cities will receive prize money totalling $350,000 for specific initiatives. US$50,000 will go to the city of Praia in Cape Verde (small city), $100,000 will go to Kinondoni in Tanzania (medium city) and Accra in Ghana (large city) will receive $200,000.</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 formal presentation ceremony and a Gala dinner was hosted by Angola's Minister of State and Chief of Civil House in the office of the President, Hon Edeltrudes Maurício Fernandes Gaspar da Costa and attended by over 350 guests comprising government officials, city leaders, African mayors, investors and business leaders. The Awards took place in conjunction with the 2nd Africa Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum held from 29-30 March 2015 in Luanda, Angola.</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;">Speaking at the ceremony, the Awards organiser and Publisher of African Business magazine, Omar Ben Yedder, said that the African Mayor Awards recognise, celebrate and reward City leaders or Governors who are helping transform Africa's growing metropolises. </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 winning cities tonight are being led by individuals who are showing essential leadership qualities as they help build cities that work. And we will need more exemplary leadership, good governance and innovative thinking, whilst paying close attention to our culture and way of living when dreaming of the cities of tomorrow. Our leaders need to be close to the people, and our winners tonight are demonstrating these qualities." </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 winners were selected by a judging panel comprising of Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, General-Secretary of United Cities and Local Governments-Africa (UCLG-A),Tokunbo Omisore, Chairman of the African Union of Architects, Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director for UN-Habitat, Vitor Leonel Miguel, Chairman of the Angolan Architects Union and Gaetan Siew, Chair, Construction Industry Sector of Mauritius.</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;">Also speaking at the awards UCLG-A Secretary General, Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi Mbassi said: "The José Eduardo dos Santos African Mayor Awards aim to raise the profile of Africa's Mayors by honouring those who have made an outstanding contribution to their communities and developed a vision for urban living, working and travelling across 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;">Each year, outstanding African Mayors and municipal professionals from a large metropolis (1,000,000 residents or more), intermediate city (less than a 1,000,000 and more than 200,000 residents) and small cities (up to 200,000 residents) have the opportunity to win the prestigious Awards, which, this year are being supported by the Government of Angola, the UN-Habitat, the IC Publications Group and my own organisation, the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG-A). </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;">Mr Elong Mbassi added: "We hope that these awards will encourage other Mayors to think long and hard about what sort of cities they want, to engage with their communities and to contribute to developing sustainable urban cities 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;">In this inaugural year, the organisers commission a renowned Angolan artist to design a unique and inspirational trophy to capture the past, present and future of African cities. The piece represents courage and conviction as well as the urban challenges that African Mayors face in the future.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by African Media Agency on behalf of Africa Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF)</span></div> </div>

The cities of Accra in Ghana, Kinondoni in Tanzania and Praia in Cape Verde win the inaugural José Eduardo dos Santos African Mayor Awards

The winners of the inaugural 2015 "José Eduardo dos Santos African Mayor Awards" have been announced in Luanda, Angola. These ...

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Dodoma

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nU-6zJrHC5U/VUMJT7KlswI/AAAAAAAAF0E/tbuDFyGyvHg/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nU-6zJrHC5U/VUMJT7KlswI/AAAAAAAAF0E/tbuDFyGyvHg/s1600/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aF7QviU-ZTg/VUMJVnQ1ExI/AAAAAAAAF0M/CYnPe6qO33o/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aF7QviU-ZTg/VUMJVnQ1ExI/AAAAAAAAF0M/CYnPe6qO33o/s1600/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KVEBLYWchwU/VUMJPdwxgFI/AAAAAAAAFz8/8sDs4e1E8xA/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KVEBLYWchwU/VUMJPdwxgFI/AAAAAAAAFz8/8sDs4e1E8xA/s1600/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xinbtMK3kG8/VUMJaN5sNXI/AAAAAAAAF0U/wK2VOo4lXmI/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xinbtMK3kG8/VUMJaN5sNXI/AAAAAAAAF0U/wK2VOo4lXmI/s1600/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /></div>

Dodoma

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Hon Mila launched photographic book

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nr9MDjJ6ck4/VUMHAp8bZXI/AAAAAAAAFzw/GGC-BbhVJ2w/s1600/jave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nr9MDjJ6ck4/VUMHAp8bZXI/AAAAAAAAFzw/GGC-BbhVJ2w/s1600/jave.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon Adam Milama launched the much anticipated book, Tanzania Photographic Journey - 50 years of United Republic of Tanzania (The Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar 1964 -2014 ) at Serena Hotel this week.</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 book celebrates and covers the historic journey of the 50 years of the United Republic Of Tanzania. The book, which comprises of over 444 pages describing in detail the historic journey of Zanzibar and then Tanganyika (Tanzania Mainland), covering the rich historical background and the political journey prior to the Union in 1964 and also the political journey of the factual events from 1964 until 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;">Javed Jafferji who is the publisher of the book said" It took 17 months to publish this book and it is the best book I have worked in the last 25 years out of 70 books i have published. I am proud that this book will remain a reference manual for generations of Tanzanians to come"</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;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This book has been blessed by both the existing Presidents, Dr Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete and Dr. Ali Mohamed Shein by both having agreed to do the foreword for this book. Furthermore, it remains to be the only book that carries the foreword of both the Presidents of the United Republic of Tanzania and Zanzibar respectively and furthermore they are the current Presidents in power.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> </div>

Hon Mila launched photographic book

Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon Adam Milama launched the much anticipated book, Tanzania Photographic Journey - 50 years of United Re...

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Government, private sector, mobile operators and development organizations convene to establish a plan for the future

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PYlPlLkvxo/VUMFMLJHoWI/AAAAAAAAFzk/5zkVL_KPCVQ/s1600/mala.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PYlPlLkvxo/VUMFMLJHoWI/AAAAAAAAFzk/5zkVL_KPCVQ/s1600/mala.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Malawi took a significant step towards creating a digital payment ecosystem in order to address poverty and drive inclusive growth. An event organized by the Government of Malawi with the United Nations Capital Development Fund’s (<a href="http://www.betterthancash.org/">UNCDF</a>).</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;"> Better Than Cash Alliance</span><span style="font-size: large;"> and Mobile Money for the Poor initiatives brought together digital payments players to accelerate the progress of digital finance in Malawi. The convening also marks the release of an in-depth analysis of the country’s readiness to transition from a nearly cash-only economy to one where digital payments are widely available through an ecosystem approach.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Honorable Goodall Gondwe, MP, Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development stated that the transition to digital payments is part of the Government’s commitment to achieving social and economic goals within the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy. “This is part of our mandate to realize balanced and sustainable economic growth and to reduce poverty,” said Gondwe. “We believe creating an economy where digital payments are widely available is the right path for us to embark on and we are doing so based on sound economic and fiscal policies.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The research was conducted through a partnership between the Malawian Ministry of Finance, the Reserve Bank of Malawi, and the Better Than Cash Alliance, and is entitled The Opportunities for Malawi’s Transition Away from <a href="http://betterthancash.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/BTCA-Long-Version-Malawi-Diagnostic.pdf">Cash</a>. The report detailed the current state of Malawian digital payments, providing an important baseline to track progress. </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 study also identified four potential opportunities for Malawi, including the Government advancing on digitizing its centralized payment system with support from banks, and merchants accelerating digital payment acceptance via mobile money and debit card at the point of sale.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“Malawi is moving forward to build a strong digital ecosystem that will respond to the needs of the people in the country,” said Mr. Tillman Bruett, Advisor and Programme Manager, Mobile Money for the Poor (MM4P), a UNCDF initiative, undertaken in Malawi with the support of the US Agency for International Development. “We expect that as a result, Malawi will progress from 3.5 percent of total active adult population using digital financial services at the start of this year to 15 percent by 2019.” As part of the programme, UNCDF plans to provide technical and financial assistance to build capacity in public and private sector organizations to support the switch from cash to digital for the most promising payments streams identified in the research.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Making payments in cash can be expensive and inefficient for governments, companies and international organizations. Cash is also difficult to trace, and extremely vulnerable to theft and loss. Many people living in poverty only use cash, and this is a key barrier to broader financial inclusion because cash makes it costly to provide financial 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;"> According to UNCDF, in least developed countries such as Malawi mobile penetration is at 30 percent while access to a bank account is at 14 percent. Mobile payments can therefore be one way to accelerate this shift.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Malawi’s approach can set an example for other countries in the early stages of transitioning to digital payments. “Digitization is an important development tool for many countries looking to reduce the cost of delivering payments, increase transparency and increase access to financial services for citizens,” said Dr. Ruth Goodwin-Groen, Managing Director, Better Than Cash Alliance. “By undertaking this research and by using it to plan its shift, Malawi has taken a bold step in increasing transparency and moving towards an economy where the Government, businesses and people can pay and get paid electronically.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Transitioning from cash to digital payments is a complex process, however, and requires collaboration between the government and businesses, as well as building trust and increasing familiarity among citizens. That reality is why leading figures came together today to discuss the diagnostic data and develop a blueprint for the country’s digital payments future. Participants noted that by working collaboratively to address the barriers to transitioning payments from cash to digital, they would be able to accelerate the shift and ensure that it brings real benefits to citizens in the form of greater financial inclusion.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">USAID/Malawi Mission Director Doug Arbuckle noted in his remarks that, "The U.S. Government is glad to join many other governments and international organizations in encouraging a transition away from cash to digital payments in Malawi. This can be a long road, but the benefits are clear and overwhelming." </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Ms. Mia Seppo, United Nations Resident Coordinator and United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative, who spoke at the event, noted, “The introduction of digitization is timely as Malawi is currently going through public service reforms that will ensure equitable access to financial and payment services in a manner that is transparent and efficient.” Malawi is a focus country of MM4P and member of the Better Than Cash Alliance.</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 Better Than Cash Alliance, United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF)/Mobile Money for the Poor (MM4P) and Malawi Ministry of Finance.</span></div> </div>

Government, private sector, mobile operators and development organizations convene to establish a plan for the future

Malawi took a significant step towards creating a digital payment ecosystem in order to address poverty and drive inclusive growth. An e...

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e-Commerce could account for 10% of retail sales in the African continent’s largest economies by 2025

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t-yh8ZzDPPQ/VUMD0b8B8TI/AAAAAAAAFzY/pHk49T0Opx4/s1600/dh.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t-yh8ZzDPPQ/VUMD0b8B8TI/AAAAAAAAFzY/pHk49T0Opx4/s1600/dh.png" width="251" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">As e-commerce continues to gain popularity across the African continent, more effort needs to be paid towards facilitating flawless delivery to customers. This is further supported by the Global e-Commerce Logistics 2015(1) report which reveals that e-commerce logistics is rapidly changing to keep pace with this quickly evolving market.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This is according to Sumesh Rahavendra, Head of Sales for <a href="http://www.dpdhl.com/">DHL</a> Express Sub Saharan Africa, who says that the delivery of goods purchased online is one of the most important elements to a customer’s e-tailing experience, and yet is often overlooked by retailers.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">A recent report by McKinsey & Company(2) revealed that e-commerce could account for 10% of retail sales in the African continent’s largest economies by 2025.The birth of e-commerce is revolutionizing local logistics practices and physical distribution networks.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“Consumers are now able to access and purchase a range of products at a click of button, and are increasingly expecting immediate delivery, which makes logistics increasingly important. This in turn is driving retailers and logistics providers to seek new initiatives to provide better delivery offerings and competitive advantages, such as same-day delivery and flexible returns.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">DHL’s own Global E-Tailing 2025 study(3) analyzed the role which e-commerce will play in consumers’ lives in the year 2025 and how it will influence consumerism, retail and logistics. The study found that as online retail continues to gain popularity in both developed and emerging markets, logistics companies are set to play a key role in providing vital supply chain management solutions that are able to evolve with consumers’ changing shopping habits.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“With e-commerce quickly gaining traction in the continent, many companies are still determining what this boom will mean for their distribution network infrastructures. When e-commerce first entered the market, it was more about the convenience of ordering a product from home, and then waiting for the package to be delivered to your doorstop.</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;"> Delivery times were a couple of days or even weeks. Today, the growing middle class across the continent want a greater variety of products and services within shorter delivery periods. Delivery time frames are now measured within minutes and hours and need to take place at a convenient time and location, dictated by the consumer.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“E-commerce is also a saving grace for consumers in outlying areas, who would traditionally have had difficulty accessing brick and mortar stores. International and domestic e-tailers now offer door-to-door delivery of a wide variety of high quality products.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“E-tailers should therefore select a reliable and reputable logistics provider, as they are ultimately an extension of their own business, and an important touch point that end consumers have direct contact with towards the end of the transaction stage. Competition in the e-commerce industry is fierce so it is the importance to delight customers with every transaction to encourage repeat business,” 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>

e-Commerce could account for 10% of retail sales in the African continent’s largest economies by 2025

As e-commerce continues to gain popularity across the African continent, more effort needs to be paid towards facilitating flawless delive...

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Delegates to the Aviation Africa 2015 Summit and exhibition taking place on 10-11 May in Dubai, could have the time of their lives thanks to a new sponsorship deal

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAGdc89_7AI/VUMC6UAr4wI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/nOyY-vQqq5c/s1600/uta.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAGdc89_7AI/VUMC6UAr4wI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/nOyY-vQqq5c/s1600/uta.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Organisers of the event, which brings together the aviation industry from the Middle East and the fast developing African market, have secured a sponsorship deal with luxury Swiss watch brand and aviation chronograph specialists, Breitling. </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;">One of the last remaining, independent family owned and COSC certified brands, Breitling will be giving two attending delegates the opportunity to win a model from their Aerospace collection over the two days of the conference.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Taking place at Le Meridien Hotel and Conference Centre in Dubai, <a href="http://www.aviationafrica.aero/">Aviation</a> Africa 2015 will be attracting attendees from Africa and the Middle East with two days of panel sessions discussing the growth potential for the aviation industry in Africa. Participants will debate the opportunities, issues and lessons learnt to find real solutions and progress for this important growth market. All attendees will be able to enter the prize draw each day to win one of the two Breitling Aerospace chronographs.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Aed Adwan, Breitling Middle East, said, “Breitling’s heritage lies firmly in aviation and providing the most precise and highly functional chronographs to aviation professionals and enthusiasts. In 1952, Breitling launched its legendary Navitimer wrist chronograph featuring a circular slide rule serving to perform all navigation-related calculations. </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 cult object for pilots and aviation enthusiasts, it has been continuously manufactured for almost 60 years – making it the world’s oldest mechanical chronograph still in production. We continue to introduce collections of the most stylish, innovative and functional watches in the world while breaking ground across the exciting world of aviation.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">High level industry guests include CEOs and Senior Executives from airlines including Rwandair, Air Arabia, South African Airways, Daallo Airlines, Jubba Airways, ECAir, Emirates Airline, flydubai, Arik Air, Astral and many more including Aviation Associations AFRAA – African Airlines Association and AfBAA – African Business Aviation Association.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The associated exhibition will feature up to 40 companies showcasing the latest technologies and services to help develop and invest in the future of the industry in Africa. Gold Sponsors for the event are Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) and UAS International Trip Support. The Official Airline is Ethiopian Airlines.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">AVIATION AFRICA 2015 will provide connectivity - it’s about people doing business, products moving to new markets, investment and new opportunities being discussed and discovered. An exciting new event in a growing Middle East and African region.</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></div> </div>

Delegates to the Aviation Africa 2015 Summit and exhibition taking place on 10-11 May in Dubai, could have the time of their lives thanks to a new sponsorship deal

Organisers of the event, which brings together the aviation industry from the Middle East and the fast developing African market, have s...

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World Immunization Week Aims to “Close the Immunization Gap” and Provide “a Gift for Life” in Africa

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GjikmVgS-xM/VUKSO044A0I/AAAAAAAAFy4/CKVwYWhIItc/s1600/ms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GjikmVgS-xM/VUKSO044A0I/AAAAAAAAFy4/CKVwYWhIItc/s1600/ms.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The World Health Organization’s World Immunization Week (WIW) from 24th to 30th April this year aims to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination to people of all ages and increase rates of immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases around the world. This year WIW focuses on ‘closing the immunization gap.’ African Vaccination Week is being celebrated under the theme “Vaccination, a gift for life”.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Did you know that:</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• Immunization can protect against 30 different infectious diseases, from infancy to old age; and</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• Immunization saves the lives of 2 to 3 million people worldwide each year?</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;">Africa has made several gains beyond increasing reach of immunisation; some diseases have been eliminated through wide-scale immunisation programmes. Vaccines are available in public vaccination programmes in the vast majority of African countries, thanks to sustained political will, international support and innovative public/private partnerships(1).</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Despite recent progress within African countries, there are still significant opportunities provided by immunization, particularly to help protect against human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Africa and Human Papillomavirus</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• An estimated 266,000 women die every year from cervical cancer. Over 85% of those deaths occur among women in developing countries. Without changes in prevention and control, cervical cancer deaths are forecast to rise to 416,000 by 2035; and virtually all of those deaths will be in developing countries(2).</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• Cervical cancer is the most common of all cancers in Africa and thus continues to be a significant threat that demands urgent attention in the African Region. In 2012, over half a million new cases of cervical cancer were diagnosed worldwide with 1 in 5 being in sub-Saharan Africa(3).</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• The primary cause of cervical pre-cancerous lesions and cancer is persistent or chronic infection with one or more types of the high risk HPV. HPV is the most common sexually acquired infection and is most often acquired in adolescence and young adults upon sexual debut(3).</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">• Cervical cancer is a preventable disease. Immunisation, together with screening and treatment, is the best strategy to rapidly reduce the burden of cervical cancer(4).</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“For more than 100 years, scientists at <a href="http://www.merck.com/">MSD</a> has been discovering and developing vaccines to help prevent certain diseases in children, adolescents and adults,” said Henrik Secher, associate vice president and managing director, MSD Africa. “We have an important responsibility to improve access to our life-saving vaccines and quality healthcare worldwide.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“MSD commends the great progress in HPV immunization efforts in Africa and supports it through continued partnership in a range of HPV immunization programs – currently in 12 countries across African continent,” he said. “We do this by working in partnership with others – governments, donors, patient organizations, healthcare professionals, NGOs, multilateral organizations and others in the private sector – to lend our expertise and knowledge. Our commitment is steadfast as we work to increase access to vaccines now and in the future.”</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 MSD (Merck Sharp & Dohme).</span></div> </div>

World Immunization Week Aims to “Close the Immunization Gap” and Provide “a Gift for Life” in Africa

The World Health Organization’s World Immunization Week (WIW) from 24th to 30th April this year aims to raise awareness about the import...

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BRVM Investment Days: West Africa's financial centre comes closer to the London Stock Exchange

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5a4DcCf0FOY/VUKRYQ319LI/AAAAAAAAFyw/GAiVdgKk1i0/s1600/bank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5a4DcCf0FOY/VUKRYQ319LI/AAAAAAAAFyw/GAiVdgKk1i0/s1600/bank.jpg" width="375" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The regional stock exchange for the eight countries of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) and many West-African companies have met investors from the London Stock Exchange</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">On the occasion of the second edition of the BRVM Investment days , the regional stock exchange for the eight countries of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (<a href="http://www.brvminvestmentdays.org/">WAEMU</a>) and many West-African companies have met investors from the London Stock Exchange.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The regional stock exchange Bourse Régionale des Valeurs Mobilières (<a href="http://www.brvm.org/">BRVM</a>) welcomes the success of the second edition of its BRVM Investment days, held on April 28 at the London Stock Exchange. </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;">"It is important for the sub regional market’s growth to come and meet British as well as international investors to show them the evolution and performance of the West African Economic and Monetary Union," said Edoh Kossi Amenounve, CEO of the BRVM in front of more than a hundred personalities, including numerous representatives of the WAEMU market, leaders of both the BRVM and the London Stock Exchange and international investors. Ms Nialé Kaba, Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of Economy and Finance, who came to London specially for the event, stressed the importance of the BRVM to, at the same time, "mobilize local savings, develop public shareholding and grow the private sector’s contribution to the economy".</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">With market capitalisation having doubled in three years – standing at 7458 billion CFA francs (around USD 13.8 billion) on 31 December 2014 – and transaction volumes growing constantly, the BRVM is becoming a destination of choice for many international investors, eager to diversify their asset portfolio while simultaneously contributing to the development of African economies. After a record 2013, which saw the BRVM 10 and BRVM Composite indices swell by 33.85% and 39.28% respectively, that growth was consolidated in 2014, as the BRVM 10 rose by 8.60% and the BRVM Composite by 11.23%. With two new entrants in recent months (Bank of Africa Senegal in December 2014 and Total Senegal in February 2015), the BRVM now has 39 listed companies. The last company to be floated on the exchange had been Bank of Africa Côte d’Ivoire back in April 2010.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">"Quite a lot of international investors have already invested on the BRVM, among which Franklin Templeton, Allan Gray, Pictet or Renaissance Securities. It is important for us to amplify this trend in order to deepen the WAEMU market and improve its liquidity", says Gabriel Fal, Chairman of the BRVM's Board of Directors. During the last few years, those international investors together represented between 40 and 60% of the transactions’ worth.</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 London Stock Exchange is signing numerous agreements with African exchanges for technological purposes, education programs or the development of investment flows between London and Africa: Johannesburg (South Africa), Casablanca (Morocco), Nairobi (Kenya), Lagos (Nigeria), Maputo (Mozambique)… </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;">"We were delighted today to play host to some of West Africa’s leading companies. Helping to support and drive the region’s economy, our role in London is to work with these businesses, as a conduit for international investment in turn supporting the companies’ development. Today’s event gives us the opportunity to reflect on the increasingly strong partnership between West Africa and London, and explore how we can further strengthen our collaboration." concludes Xavier Rolet, CEO of the London Stock <a href="http://www.brvminvestmentdays.org/">Exchange</a> Group.</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 Regional stock exchange - Bourse Régionale des Valeurs Mobilières (BRVM).</span></div> </div>

BRVM Investment Days: West Africa's financial centre comes closer to the London Stock Exchange

The regional stock exchange for the eight countries of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) and many West-African compan...

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Uhalifu na vurugu wa makundi ya vijana kuelekea uchaguzi huathiri wananchi

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xtZqH_f_vAo/VUKQWP6086I/AAAAAAAAFyo/ZWkFjgNPpDg/s1600/bung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xtZqH_f_vAo/VUKQWP6086I/AAAAAAAAFyo/ZWkFjgNPpDg/s1600/bung.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Wananchi watatu kati ya kumi (30%) wameshakukumbana na wizi ndani ya kipindi cha mwaka jana. Kwa ujumla, nusu ya Watanzania wote wamewahi kuibiwa.</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;">Ailimia 84 ya wananchi wanaamini kuwa kuna uwezekano wa wao kuathiriwa na makundi ya vijana wahalifu kama Panya Road. Mwezi Januari 2015, Panya Road ilileta wasiwasi mkubwa jijini Dar es Salaam kwa kufanya vitendo vya uhalifu na vurugu, tukio hili lilitawala mijadala kwenye mitandao ya kijamii na kupelekea mamia ya vijana hao kukamatwa. Wananchi sita kati ya kumi (60%) kitaifa wamewahi kusikia kuhusu Panya Road lakini karibu wananchi tisa kati ya kumi (87%) walisema hakuna kikundi kama hicho katika maeneo 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;">Wananchi wawili kati ya kumi (18%) wameripoti kuwa walishuhudia ghasia wakati wa uchaguzi wa serikali za mitaa mwezi Desemba 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;">Matokeo haya yametolewa na Twaweza kwenye muhtasari wake wa utafiti wenye jina la Je, tuko Salama? Maoni ya wananchi juu ya usalama na haki. Muhtasari huu umetokana na takwimu za Sauti za Wananchi, utafiti wa kwanza Afrika wenye uwakilishi wa kitaifa unaofanyika mara kwa mara kwa njia ya simu ya mkononi. Takwimu hizi zilikusanywa kwa wahojiwa 1,401 kutoka Tanzania Bara (Zanzibar haimo katika matokeo haya) mwezi Februari na Machi 2015.</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;">Licha ya kuongezeka kwa matukio ya vurugu za kisiasa pamoja na wizi na hofu juu ya makundi ya vijana wahalifu, wananchi nane kati ya kumi (79%) walisema hawajawahi kabisa, au wamewahi mara chache kujihisi kutokuwa salama katika jamii zao na maeneo wanayoishi. </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;">Hata hivyo, wananchi wanaamini kuwa mfumo wa sheria haufanyi kazi ipasavyo. Zaidi ya nusu ya wananchi (53%) wanaamini kuwa mwananchi wa kawaida ataadhibiwa kwa mujibu wa sheria akitenda kosa. Lakini kuadhibiwa kwa watu wenye kipato cha chini ni vigumu sana. </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;">Wananchi wachache (14%) wanaamini kuwa watu wenye kipato cha juu wanaweza kuadhibiwa iwapo wanavunja sheria, na wengine (21%) wanaona hili pia linawezekana kwa watumishi wa umma. Idadi hii imeshuka ukilinganisha na takwimu za mwaka 2013 ambapo asilimia 39 ya wananchi walidhani kuwa watumishi wa umma watakumbana na mkono wa sheria wanapotenda makosa. Pamoja na haya yote, wananchi sita kati ya kumi (60%) wanaamini jeshi la polisi linawahudumia zaidi watu wenye pesa kuliko watanzania wa kipato cha chini.</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;">Licha ya kuwa na imani kwamba polisi wanapendelea matajiri, wananchi wanne kati ya kumi (37%) waliripoti kwenda polisi wanapokumbana na uhalifu. Idadi hiyo hiyo (32%), wanategemea vikundi vya ulinzi vya kijamii au kamati zao za kijiji/mtaa. Baadhi hawaendi kutoa taarifa polisi kwasababu ya rushwa (29%), na wengine kwasababu polisi hawatawajali (14%). Inaonekana kwamba matukio ya ukatili dhidi ya polisi yameongezeka. Wananchi wawili kati ya kumi (21%) wameyasikia matukio ya aina hii. Mwaka jana (2013) ni mwananchi mmoja tu kati ya kumi aliyeyasikia matukio kama haya. </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;">Kutokana na imani ndogo na jeshi la polisi kama wanavyoripoti wananchi, watu wengi wameanzisha vikundi vya usalama vya kijamii ambavyo husimamia utekelezaji wa sheria za kawaida. Taarifa nyingi za uhalifu na vurugu zinapelekwa huko, huku wananchi watatu kati ya kumi (29%) wakiripoti kuwahi kusikia matukio ya vitisho, watu kupigwa na vikundi hivi vya usalama.</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;">Elvis Mushi, Meneja wa Sauti za Wananchi alisema "Wananchi wanakabiliwa na wizi, hofu ya magenge na kukosekana kwa usalama ifikapo kipindi cha uchaguzi. Pia wanahisi kwamba vyombo vya sheria vinaupendeleo. Hii ni changamoto kwa watunga serikali. " </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;">Aidan Eyakuze, Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Twaweza, aliongeza kwa kusema " Kwanza, wananchi wengi wanajihisi kuwa salama katika maeneo yao lakini bado wanakumbana na vitendo vya wizi, wanaogopa kuvamiwa na vikundi kama Panya Road na baadhi yao kushuhudia ghasia na vurugu za kisiasa. </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;">Aidha, wananchi wameshuhudia ongezeko la ukatili dhidi ya vituo vya polisi ndani ya miaka miwili iliyopita, jambo hili linapunguza imani yao na vyombo vya usalama. Usalama una umuhimu wa kipekee katika masuala ya kijamii na kiuchumi. Rai yetu ni kwa serikali kuyazingatia maoni haya ya wananchi katika utekelezaji wa jukumu lake la kuwahakikishia wananchi usalama wa hali na mali."</span></div> </div>

Uhalifu na vurugu wa makundi ya vijana kuelekea uchaguzi huathiri wananchi

Wananchi watatu kati ya kumi (30%) wameshakukumbana na wizi ndani ya kipindi cha mwaka jana. Kwa ujumla, nusu ya Watanzania wote wamewah...

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The funds committed by DEG to Surfline will be used for the on-going expansion of the company’s 4G LTE network in Ghana

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgo9Qz1eox8/VUKPRDDgq3I/AAAAAAAAFyg/E10-Tyk6s2s/s1600/ky.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="83" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgo9Qz1eox8/VUKPRDDgq3I/AAAAAAAAFyg/E10-Tyk6s2s/s1600/ky.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Vantage </span><a href="http://www.vantagecapital.co.za/" style="font-size: x-large;">Capital </a><span style="font-size: large;">, Africa’s leading mezzanine debt provider, today announced that the DEG - Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH (“DEG”) and four other European investors are contributing a total of approximately $60m to Vantage’s third fund. </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;">DEG’s commitment to Fund III is $20m. In addition the DEG is providing $15m to a co-investment with Vantage in Surfline Communications, the leading 4G LTE network operator in Ghana. Vantage invested $15m in Surfline from its second fund late last year.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Gunnar Stork, Director Equity & Mezzanine for Africa and Latin America, said “DEG is excited to partner with Vantage in the investment in Ghana. We believe that the investment in Surfline will contribute to improve internet connectivity in Ghana and as such be an important factor to bridge the digital divide. In addition we are pleased to continue our partnership with Vantage in general by investing in Fund III, after having already been an investor in Vantage’s first Mezzanine Fund. We believe in this existing asset class on the African continent and see it as an important instrument to facilitate economic growth in Africa.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The funds committed by DEG to Surfline will be used for the on-going expansion of the company’s 4G LTE network in Ghana as well as to enhance its product distribution and marketing capabilities. By deploying the first 4G LTE mobile network in Ghana, Surfline is able to offer high-speed internet connectivity (up to 10 times faster than the average speeds offered by the existing mobile network operators) at pricing that is competitive with existing internet service providers. </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 network achieved an extremely successful commercial launch in August 2014 and is experiencing tremendous growth in its customer base. Surfline was recently nominated for "Breakthrough LTE Entrant" at AfricaCom in South Africa and won "Top Emerging Brand" at the Top Brands Awards in Ghana. The investment in Surfline by Vantage and DEG was nominated by Dealmakers Magazine for “Private Equity Catalyst Deal of the Year.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Colin Rezek, Managing Partner at Vantage, said “We are extremely pleased to receive the strong endorsement of DEG for our third mezzanine fund, which will employ a pan-African investment approach to focus on high-growth markets such as Ghana, Nigeria, the East African Community members and some of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. We also welcome DEG as a co-investor in Surfline, one of the most exciting deals out of the over 600 investment opportunities we have reviewed in the past five years.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">DEG joins other investors that have already committed funds to Vantage, including a major South African pension fund and foreign investors such as the Swiss Investment Fund for Emerging Markets (“SIFEM”) which is advised by Obviam. Obviam’s Chief Investment Officer, Andrea Heinzer stated: “Based on Vantage’s robust and positive track record in South Africa, we see Vantage Capital as the ideal partner for SIFEM to develop the mezzanine asset class in Sub-Saharan Africa.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Vantage has made 12 investments in its second mezzanine fund, of which about 90% of available funds have been invested. More than half of the capital deployed has gone into growth projects such as Surfline. Vantage is targeting a final close of its third mezzanine fund at approximately $250 million later this 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 Vantage Capital Group.</span></div> </div>

The funds committed by DEG to Surfline will be used for the on-going expansion of the company’s 4G LTE network in Ghana

Vantage Capital , Africa’s leading mezzanine debt provider, today announced that the DEG - Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesell...

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WINNERS OF THE INAUGURAL AWARDS TO BE ANNOUNCED AT GALA DINNER HOSTED BY ANGOLA'S PRESIDENT JOSÉ EDUARDO DOS SANTOS, IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE 2ND AFRICA URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT FORUM

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NfRhcZKgYls/VUKOeMPeijI/AAAAAAAAFyY/mpulcPBYtxA/s1600/lu.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NfRhcZKgYls/VUKOeMPeijI/AAAAAAAAFyY/mpulcPBYtxA/s1600/lu.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The shortlisted entries for the inaugural African Mayor Awards have been announced. The awards acknowledge the leadership and contribution made by Mayors of large, medium and small cities across Africa and celebrate achievements and excellence in urban development 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;">In the 'Large Metropolis' category, with 1,000,000 residents or more, Accra, Ghana; Cape Town, South Africa and Dakar, Senegal were shortlisted. In the intermediate, or Medium-Sized Cities category, localities with less than 1,000,000 and more than 200,000 residents, Kinondoni, Tanzania; Asunafo, Ghana and Bissau, Guinea-Bissau were selected. In the Small Cities category, for cities with up to 200,000 residents, Arua, Uganda; Bangangte, Cameroon and Praia, Cape Verde made the shortlist.</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 finalists were selected unanimously by the competition's judging panel, which includes Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, General-Secretary of United Cities and Local Governments-Africa (UCLG-A),Tokunbo Omisore, Chairman of the African Union of Architects, Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director for UN-Habitat, Vitor Leonel Miguel, Chairman of the Angolan Architects Union and Gaetan Siew, Chair, Construction Industry Sector of Mauritius.</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 Awards ceremony, which showcases excellence in urban development, will be hosted in Luanda by HE President José Eduardo Dos Santos on 30th April. </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 African Mayor Awards are held in conjunction with the 2nd Africa Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF) which, this year, discusses post-conflict reconstruction and turning African cities into economic power houses. H.E. Pedro Pires, former President of Cape Verde and Mo Ibrahim laureate will deliver the Keynote Address at the Forum. </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;">Under HE Pires' leadership, the capital city of the island state saw remarkable growth and expansion, with investment in urban infrastructure, supported by appropriate housing designed to manage the transition from rural to city life. </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;">Examples of such innovation and transformational development will be among the themes of the second AUIIF, which seeks to propose the concrete steps to be taken in order to maximise the effectiveness of urban infrastructure development, from finance through design to implementation. The outcome of the Forum will be incorporated in the programme of the 7th Edition of the Africities Summit from 1 to 5 December 2015, to be held in Johannesburg, 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;">Mr Omar Ben Yedder, the summit organiser and publisher of African Business magazine said that he was impressed with the calibre of conference speakers at this year's meeting. He said: "Urbanisation is the development challenge of the next 20 years. Functioning cities create wealth. Unless we plan and think properly about what the future will look like and where our cities fit into this future, we will face immense problems and any retroactive action will prove costly and ineffective. The cities shortlisted today are being led by people who understand this and who are making great strides in creating livable cities that are creating wealth.</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;">He added: "We are also delighted to have so many dignitaries with us this year which shows that policy makers are taking this issue very seriously, starting with our hosts the government of Angola."</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 Africa Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum stresses the importance of tapping into both African and international capital to finance infrastructure development, as well as seeking to identify viable and innovative financing models to make infrastructure projects more attractive to investors. </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Distributed by African Media Agency on behalf of Africa Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF)</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> </div>

WINNERS OF THE INAUGURAL AWARDS TO BE ANNOUNCED AT GALA DINNER HOSTED BY ANGOLA'S PRESIDENT JOSÉ EDUARDO DOS SANTOS, IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE 2ND AFRICA URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT FORUM

The shortlisted entries for the inaugural African Mayor Awards have been announced. The awards acknowledge the leadership and contributi...

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Almost 500 participants registered from over 50 countries

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s18HNzVEesY/VUKNSosAYKI/AAAAAAAAFyQ/8YdDOsOdPGc/s1600/reg.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s18HNzVEesY/VUKNSosAYKI/AAAAAAAAFyQ/8YdDOsOdPGc/s1600/reg.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The West African Economic and Monetary Union (</span><a href="http://www.eu-africa-cc.org/" style="font-size: x-large;">WAEMU</a><span style="font-size: large;">, also known by its French acronym, UEMOA), is one of the strategic partners of the 1st edition of the EU-Africa B2B Forum </span><span style="font-size: large;">to be held on 06 -08 May 2015 in Mons (Belgium), with Euronews as main media partner.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The UEMOA will present several investment projects, including projects on roads linking the most important West African cities, during a dedicated workshop. Other African Countries as Ghana, Rwanda, Madagascar, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Morocco, and Senegal have also been invited to present investment opportunities.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The main focus of the EU-Africa B2B Forum is to provide a high level platform for Business-to-Business (B2B) and matchmaking meetings. The EU-Africa B2B Forum enables business contacts between professionals from African and European private sectors.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Among high level participants invited to attend the EU-Africa B2B Forum 2015, is HEM John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana, as well as Ministers from different African countries who confirmed their participation: HEM Narson Rafidimanana, Minister of Industry and Private Sector Development, Madagascar; HEM Frédéric Nikièma, Minister of Communication, Spokesman of the Government, Burkina Faso; HEM Emmanuel Bonde, Minister of Mines, Industry and Technological Development, Cameroon; HEM Lahcen Haddad, Minister of Tourism, Morocco; HEM Elio Di Rupo, Former Prime Minister, Mayor City of Mons, Belgium; HEM Willy Borsu, Minister of the Middle Class, SMEs, Self-employed and Agriculture, Belgium.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce (EUACC) is headquartered in Brussels since 2012. The EUACC's mission is to promote the development of the African private sector and to encourage win-win and sustainable business partnerships between the European and African private sectors.</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;">Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce (EUACC).</span></div> </div>

Almost 500 participants registered from over 50 countries

The West African Economic and Monetary Union ( WAEMU , also known by its French acronym, UEMOA), is one of the strategic partners of the...

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Tunis International Bank (TIB) has implemented the fully comprehensive solution ICS BANKS® in 3 Branches in addition to the Head Office

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNX4AYwvy60/VUKMc9aG72I/AAAAAAAAFyI/mfRq7SJzcwY/s1600/Tun.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNX4AYwvy60/VUKMc9aG72I/AAAAAAAAFyI/mfRq7SJzcwY/s1600/Tun.png" width="270" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Tunis International Bank (<a href="http://www.tib.com.tn/">TIB</a>), the first bank established in Tunisia under the non-resident banking regulations and a member of Burgan Banking Group, the regional banking arm of Kuwait Projects Co. (KIPCO), went live on ICS BANKS® from ICS Financial Systems Limited (<a href="http://www.icsfs.com/">ICSFS</a>), the global software and services provider for banks and financial institutions.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Tunis International Bank (TIB) has implemented the fully comprehensive solution ICS BANKS® in 3 Branches in addition to the Head Office. The bank experienced a smooth implementation started in on 31 July, 2013 and completed on 1 November, 2014.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">TIB replaced the legacy system, as the main requirements for the bank were a fully-fledged bank -in- a- box solution that provides a full range of modules and incorporates a flexible group model.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Managing Director of TIB; Mr. Mohamad Fekih stated,</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“We are delighted that TIB has successfully gone live with ICS BANKS®. The solution will enable the bank to serve its rapidly-growing customer base in Tunis with a state-of-the-art core banking system. TIB has implemented ICSFS’ solution to offer modern products through the use of the newly applied suite of applications that cover Core Banking, Remittances, Credit Facilities & Risk Groups, Lending, Trade Finance, and Treasury & Investment systems, in addition to giving our customers the possibility of securely interacting with the new system through the internet. ”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Managing Director of ICSFS; Mr. Robert Hazboun commented, </span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“ICSFS is expanding its footprint across North Africa, where it already exists in Algeria, Egypt, Libya and Tunisia. Our solution is currently licensed to more than 80 banks and financial institutions, demonstrating its reliability and suitability globally. We are delighted that TIB has entered into live production with ICS BANKS® and we look forward to support the bank through all future phases of growth.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">As a proof of ICSFS highlighting its footprints in the African ICT Market, ICSFS has won recently “Best Core Banking Systems Technology Provider” in Africa and globally for its ICS BANKS® solution at the prestigious World Finance Technology Awards that was organized by World Finance 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;">It is also worth mentioning that ICSFS flagship solution, ICS BANKS® was named the winner of “Banking Software of the Year 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013” from the Beacon of ICT (BoICT) Awards that are instituted by Communication Week Media Limited, publishers of Nigeria Communications Week. </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;">Global Banking and Finance Review, one of the worlds’ leading global banking and finance online publications has recognised ICSFS as the “Best Banking Technology Software Provider 2014”. And recently, ICSFS has been awarded “Best Core Banking Solutions Provider – Middle East” by International Finance Magazine on November 2014.</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Mr. Wael Malkawi; Executive Director for Business Development of ICSFS said,</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">“We believe that our implementation at TIB is highly significant as it extends our share in the African market. ICSFS’ customer base is expanding in many African countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Congo (RDC), Côte D’Ivoire, Djibouti, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Tunis, Egypt, Algeria, Libya and Sudan.”</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">ICS BANKS® provides a complete suite of banking business modules with a rich sweep of functionality and features, addressing business needs and automating accounting processes, as needed, to improve a bank’s business performance. ICS BANKS® has always been a pioneer in utilizing the latest technology to serve financial institutions. In addition to its embedded Service-Oriented-Architecture (SOA), the system is deployed in a multi-tiered setup that runs on a web thin client, J2EE environment.</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 ICS Financial Systems Ltd. (ICSFS).</span></div> </div>

Tunis International Bank (TIB) has implemented the fully comprehensive solution ICS BANKS® in 3 Branches in addition to the Head Office

Tunis International Bank ( TIB ), the first bank established in Tunisia under the non-resident banking regulations and a member of Burga...

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Representatives from various sectors in over 20 countries to attend Luanda meeting, hosted by the Government of Angola

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1HF0xw_ULV8/VUKLLrP0HuI/AAAAAAAAFx8/_HuX7mZnqN4/s1600/8a8d4c15-b3c5-4649-80df-0ab9e8b29f24.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1HF0xw_ULV8/VUKLLrP0HuI/AAAAAAAAFx8/_HuX7mZnqN4/s1600/8a8d4c15-b3c5-4649-80df-0ab9e8b29f24.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The seventh-largest country in Africa, will host the 2nd African Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF) in the capital, Luanda, from 29th to 30th April. The theme for this year's AUIIF is 'Turning African Cities into Economic Powerhouses', and the Forum will showcase Luanda, as one of Africa's construction 'Hubs', while highlighting the country's post-conflict reconstruction efforts. The government will use the opportunity of the AUIIF to showcase its flagship urbanisation project "New Centralities" (New Cities). The project is a result of the Angolan Government's National Programme for Urbanism and Housing (PNUH). </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;">"This project was formulated, co-ordinated and led by the President of the country himself", said the Angolan Minister for Urbanism and Habitat, Hon. José António M. da Conceição e Silva, reinforcing the fact that this is a major government priority over the next few years. The Minister stated that it is essential for his country to keep strengthening urban infrastructure in order to attract foreign investment, and to allow for the rapid industrialisation of the economy. </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 part of the government's urban plan, Angola is banking on the construction of new cities to bridge the housing gap. Most of these cities are being built on the outskirts of the country's largest existing cities, particularly on the fringes of Luanda. There has already been significant progress, with new centralities such as Km 44, Capari, Kilamba Kiaxi located 20 km from Luanda benefitting from an investment of US$3.5 billion. </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;">Cuaco and Zango cities are either under construction or planned and the construction plan will be extended to Beguela, Uíge and Lobito. While in Luanda, delegates at the Forum will will have an opportunity to visit the Kilamba New Centrality. According to Minister da Conceição e Silva, "there is no doubt that these large housing developments, Kilamba's, are the best public housing units not only in Africa, but in the developing world".</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;">Over 350 local, national and international industry leaders from various sectors including construction, transportation, energy, finance, management and consulting are expected to attend the Forum at the Talatona Convention Centre (CCTA), from 29th to 30th April. </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;">AUIIF brings together a prestigious line up of expert speakers who have made significant contributions towards Africa's socio-economic reconstruction efforts. These include the former Cape Verdian Head of State, HE Pedro Pires, senior government officials, urban planners, designers, developers, think-thanks, academics, funding agencies and potential investors who have been working together to promote the continent's 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;">Speakers and panellists are drawn from more than sixteen African countries as well as some international experts. </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 Forum's organisers, IC events and African Business magazine, is part of the IC Publications group, one of Africa's leading media and communications groups. The Group's Publisher and CEO, Omar Ben Yedder, said that the Forum, now in its second year, is being hosted in partnership with the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG-A) and with support from UN-Habitat. Last year's forum was held in Cape Town, 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;">THE REALITY OF AFRICAN CITIES IN 2030</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 McKinsey Global Institute forecasts that by 2030, the continent's 18 largest cities will have a combined spending power of US$1.3tr. However, although African cities are growing an unprecedented rate and creating huge commercial opportunities, there are great inequalities and there is also potential for social tension.</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;">One of Africa's urbanisation experts, UCLG-A General-Secretary, Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi states that between 2010 and 2050, Africa's average urban population is set to increase threefold, from 400m to 1,2billion. This means that a quarter of the world's urban population - or the equivalent of Africa's current total population - will live in African cities. The major challenge for African governments, therefore, is to build urban environments that meet the needs of residents and investors.</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;">"AFRICAN CITIES" 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;">During the 2nd African Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum, delegates will be able to read the inaugural issue of the magazine "African Cities". The magazine, which is published in three languages (Portuguese, English and French), will provide exclusive coverage of infrastructure development in Angola in this first issue. The publication will be available Lusophone countries (Portugal, Brazil, Mozambique and Cape Verde) and will also be distributed across Africa and the rest of the world.</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;">Distributed by African Media Agency on behalf of African Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF)</span></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> </div>

Representatives from various sectors in over 20 countries to attend Luanda meeting, hosted by the Government of Angola

The seventh-largest country in Africa, will host the 2nd African Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF) in the capital, Luanda, f...

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