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National Information Technology Development Agency’s AI Training Program Marks One Year Milestone

National Information Technology Development Agency’s AI Training Program Marks One Year Milestone

 

Celebrating a Year of Empowering Nigerian Youths in Artificial Intelligence

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with its subsidiary, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, proudly observes the first anniversary of the NITDA AI Developers Training (NAIDT) program. Launched last year, this initiative stands as a testament to NITDA’s commitment to fostering technological advancement and skills development among the nation’s youth.

The NAIDT program was established with the primary objective of equipping Nigerian youths with essential artificial intelligence (AI) skills. Aligned with President Tinubu’s visionary agenda to create one million jobs through the digital economy, this program serves as a pivotal step towards achieving this ambitious goal. By imparting cutting-edge AI knowledge to participants, NAIDT empowers them to contribute meaningfully to the digital transformation of Nigeria’s economy.

In recognition of this momentous occasion, the dedicated team behind NAIDT, including both facilitators and beneficiaries, came together to express their gratitude. A special visit was organized to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the Director-General of NITDA, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa CCIE. Mr. Inuwa’s steadfast support and unwavering guidance were instrumental in ensuring the successful implementation of the NAIDT program. As a token of their appreciation, an award was presented to Mr. Inuwa during the visit.

Looking ahead, NITDA remains committed to nurturing the talents of Nigerian youths and enabling them to excel in the ever-evolving landscape of AI and technology. The agency’s dedication to fostering innovation and sustainable growth continues to propel Nigeria towards a prosperous digital future.

12 growth stage startups selected for 2023 VC4A Venture Showcase Africa

12 growth stage startups selected for 2023 VC4A Venture Showcase Africa

VC4A (https://www.VC4A.com), the leading startup platform in emerging markets, is proud to announce the 12 African startups that have been selected to participate in the 2023 VC4A Venture Showcase Africa. This annual flagship program brings together the best and brightest startups from across the continent, giving them the opportunity to pitch their ideas to investors and industry experts with the objective of raising their Seed or Series A fuding rounds.

 

The 12 startups selected for the 2023 Venture Showcase Africa are:

Three ventures from Egypt, which are Rology (https://apo-opa.info/455sUUU), an AI-assisted tele-radiology platform that helps deliver accurate radiology reports on time; FreshSource (https://apo-opa.info/451X5fw), a B2B agri-supply chain platform that uses data and technology to connect producers to businesses, guarantee fair prices, and minimize food loss; and Pharmacy Marts (https://apo-opa.info/47H09zA), a B2B marketplace for pharmacies that provides a one-stop shop for products, financing, and logistics.

Four startups from Nigeria namely; Vendy (https://apo-opa.info/3YvNpaP), which helps businesses accept payments from customers without internet access; Treepz (https://apo-opa.info/3OCiBQS), a car-sharing platform for Africa that aims to reduce CO2 emissions; Winich Farms (https://apo-opa.info/3qCT7ee), an application that connects food producers to informal food processors and retailers in Africa; and OmniRetail (https://apo-opa.info/3OAwu21), a B2B e-commerce platform offering supplier & retail software, to connect the informal retail ecosystem across Africa.

These high-growth ventures were chosen from a pool of hundreds of applicants, and represent a diverse range of industries and sectors in the Seed and Series A tracks

Three startups from Kenya; Duhqa (https://apo-opa.info/3OBqdDi), a digital supply chain platform that uses AI and automation to help SMEs and manufacturers grow their businesses; MPost (https://apo-opa.info/3KDJtPu) which is a digital platform that turns mobile phone numbers into formal postal addresses, and SympliFi (https://apo-opa.info/3OTghFF), a blockchain-powered credit-as-a-service platform that provides affordable credit to MSMEs in Africa.

To close the top 12 list, one startup each from Uganda and Senegal; Emata (https://apo-opa.info/3OW2PC7) is a digital lending platform on a mission to provide loans to millions of farmers in East Africa and Maad (https://apo-opa.info/3KCIizP), is an e-commerce marketplace connecting manufacturers and retailers in Francophone Africa.

These high-growth ventures were chosen from a pool of hundreds of applicants, and represent a diverse range of industries and sectors in the Seed and Series A tracks. Each startup will receive mentorship, technical assistance and will have the opportunity to showcase their companies to an audience of investors and industry leaders in the VC4A Deal Room.

“We are thrilled to unveil these exceptional startups for our upcoming VC4A Venture Showcase Africa 2023 program. Each is a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship. These visionary teams have demonstrated remarkable potential and we eagerly anticipate the transformative journey ahead as we accelerate their growth and shape the future together,” said an excited Abu Cassim, Lead of the Acceleration Team at VC4A.

We thank our 2023 Africa sponsors, the African European Digital Innovation Bridge Network AEDIB|NET and Work in Progress! Alliance, for their commitment to strengthening Africa’s startup ecosystem. Their support was essential to the success of this cohort selection process.

For more information about the final cohort of the 2023 VC4A Venture Showcase Africa, please visit VentureShowcase.VC4A.com.

Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire to be Broadcast across Africa this August

Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire to be Broadcast across Africa this August

After its global premiere on Disney+ last month, The Walt Disney Company Africa (https://TheWaltDisneyCompany.com/) today announced that the Disney+ Original anthology series “Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire” will be broadcast across Africa when it lands on Disney Channel (DStv, Channel 303) this August.

VIDEO
Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire Official Trailer

 

Featuring stories from the continent, a double bill of films will be broadcast at 17:00 CAT each weekday from 28 August – 1 September with 5-film marathons airing at 15:15 CAT on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September respectively.

“Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire” is an action-packed animated sci-fi anthology that presents ten futuristic visions from Africa, inspired by the continent’s diverse histories and cultures. Creators hailing from South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Uganda, Kenya and Zimbabwe present uniquely African perspectives to imagine brave new worlds of advanced technology, aliens, spirits, and monsters.

Says Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa: “We are excited to be bringing this innovative and celebrated series to viewers across the continent, giving those without access to Disney+ the chance to be part of an unforgettable ride into Africa’s future, presenting visions of the continent as never before seen.”

“Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire” is an action-packed animated sci-fi anthology that presents ten futuristic visions from Africa

The ten creators include Ahmed Teilab (Egypt), Simangaliso ‘Panda’ Sibaya and Malcolm Wope (South Africa), Terence Maluleke and Isaac Mogajane (South Africa), Ng’endo Mukii (Kenya), Shofela Coker (Nigeria), Nthato Mokgata and Catherine Green (South Africa), Pious Nyenyewa and Tafadzwa Hove (Zimbabwe), Tshepo Moche (South Africa), Raymond Malinga (Uganda) and Lesego Vorster (South Africa).

The sci-fi series features an exciting cast from across the globe and includes the voices of Florence Kasumba (“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”), Kehinde Bankole (“Blood Sisters”), Pearl Thusi (“Queen Sono”), Hakeem Kae-Kazim (“Hotel Rwanda”, “Godzilla vs. Kong”), Sheila Munyiva (“Rafiki”), Stycie Waweru (“Supa Modo”, “Supa Sema”), Candice Modiselle (“Generations: The Legacy”), Lillian Dube (“Soul City”), Clementine Mosimane (“Poppie Nongena”), and Mandisa Nduna (“Blood Psalms”), as well as comedians Tumi Morake (“Serious Single”), Sne Dladla (“Black Tax”) and Tyson Ngubeni (“A Royal Surprise”) and rappers Nasty C (“Blood & Water”) and Gigi Lamayne (“Temptation Island: South Africa”).

Oscar®-winning director Peter Ramsey (“Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse”), Tendayi Nyeke and Anthony Silverston all serve as executive producers. Triggerfish is the lead studio for the anthology, working in collaboration with animation studios across the continent and globally.

“Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire” will premiere on Disney Channel (DStv, Channel 303) with double bills each weekday from 28 August – 1 September at 17:00 (CAT), with special 5-film marathons on 2 and 3 September at 15:15 (CAT).

Tokunbo Talabi petitions DSS over spurious allegation of ballot paper printing Secretary to Ogun State Government (SSG),

Tokunbo Talabi petitions DSS over spurious allegation of ballot paper printing Secretary to Ogun State Government (SSG),

 

 

 

Mr. Tokunbo Talabi has asked the Department of State Security Services (DSS) to investigate online reports that he was involved in printing of ballot papers in the last general elections especially the governorship election in Ogun State to compromise the process.

This is even as the Ogun State government has debunked a news report by The Punch newspaper of Saturday August 5, 2023 titled “DSS grills Ogun SSG over ballot paper printing, Covid-19 fund”. “This highly misleading report whose author is notorious for unethical journalism, has left us, like many avid readers of your publications, wondering if this is The Punch that we used to know”,

Mr. Adegoke Oyebade, Information Officer at the office of the SSG, Ogun State, wrote in rejoinder to The Punch management.

According to Mr. Oyebade, the report erroneously projected the petitioner as the accused as it was Mr. Talabi that personally went to submit the petition to the DSS office at Abeokuta accompanied by his lawyers.

The petition was on the heels of several online reports linking the SSG to Superflux International Limited, a security printing company where he was a Director prior to becoming SSG as being involved in printing ballot papers for the 2023 general election to allegedly compromise the process, laundering Covid-19 fund etc.
But quoting a statement earlier by Superflux International denying these false allegations and widely circulated in both traditional and online media,

Oyebade said Talabi had resigned as a Director of the company once discussions had reached a stage when he made up his mind to serve his people in the capacity as SSG. “The company in the said statement also frowned at being tagged as conduit for money laundering, siphoning of Covid-19 funds saying such allegations are clearly handiworks of mischief makers and traducers who were hell bent to tarnish the reputation of the company before its numerous customers and that of it’s former director, who is presently the Secretary to Ogun State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi”.

As at the time of filing this report, the no word has been heard concerning the DSS investigation. But we gathered the both Superflux International Limited and Mr. Tokunbo Talabi may be heading to the courts to clear their names from these false allegations.

Federal Government committed to Continuous Support of Nigerian Airlines- Meribole

Federal Government committed to Continuous Support of Nigerian Airlines- Meribole
Federal government of Nigeria has shown commitment in the continuous support of Nigerian airlines. Permanent Secretary Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace, Dr Emmanuel Meribole represented by Director Air Transport Management of the Ministry, Mr. Hassan Ejibunu made this statement at a reception organized by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to celebrate the commencement of direct flights between Nigeria and the Caribbean country by Air Peace Airline recently.
He said the Federal Government will continue to initiate and implement policies that ensures Nigeria’s airlines benefits from the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) signed by Nigeria with other countries.
He commended Air Peace for the historic feat and yet another milestone recorded for both countries which were known to be bounded by common ancestries. He added that the journey would further strengthen the relationship of both countries in the areas of commerce, trade, and tourism while acknowledged the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Antiguan/Barbudan authorities for approving the designation of Air Peace by the Nigerian Aeronautical Authorities to fly the Nigerian-Antiguan route.
The Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Mr. Gatson Browne in his remarks said “it’s a new dawn for the relationship between Nigeria and Antigua”. He emphasized on the ancestral linkage between the Caribbean nations and Africa, which he referred to as the Motherland. He said the Antigua and Barbuda was home to every African and his government is desirous in promoting economic and bilateral ties with African nations within the context of the South-South cooperation.
He urged members of the business community from Nigeria and potential investors to take advantage of the favorable economic policy of his government to invest in Antigua and Barbuda.The Prime Minister further revealed that the country was on a collaboration with Air Peace Airline to float an airline known as LIAT 2020 which would commence flight operations soon. The airline, he said , on commencement of operations would operate in the entire Carribean countries thus making air connectivity between Africa, the entire Carribean countries and America stress-free.
While speaking earlier, representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bolaji Akinremi Director, Economic, Trade and Investment said the development had signposted the beginning of a new fond relationship between Antigua and Barbuda as well as the entire Carribean countries.
He said the air connectivity was in sync with the Foreign policy of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR of integrating the economy of Africa nations.
Akinremi further said, Carribean countries were considered as an integral part of Africa as the fifth bloc.
He further stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would continue to foster the new fond relationship by promoting Bilateral meetings between the business communities of both counties.
The event had in attendance members of the business community from Nigeria and top government functionaries from the Republic of Antigua and Barbuda also had in attendance the Chairman of Air Peace, Chief Allen Onyeama.

FINTRAK SOFTWARE CEMENT INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP POSITION WITH FOUR ISO CERTIFICATION

FINTRAK SOFTWARE CEMENT INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP POSITION WITH FOUR ISO CERTIFICATION

 

Fintrak Software Limited an indigenous financial technology (Fintech) located in Lagos has recently bagged international certifications ISO 20000:2018, which is a certification for information technology ( IT) service provider’s requirements to plan, establish, implement, operate, monitor, and improve the management system. Fintak also bagged  ISO 27001:2013, which is an Information Security Management System (ISMS) certification.

In addition to Fintrak’s existing certifications, such as ISO 22301:2019—a globally recognized standard for Business Continuity Management (BCM)—the company has acquired further certifications. ISO 22301:2019 outlines the structure for establishing and operating a robust business continuity management system. Moreover, Fintrak holds ISO 9001:2015 certification, signifying its adherence to ISO 9001 standards and its fulfillment of customer, statutory, and regulatory prerequisites. This encompasses the maintenance of vital documentation to meet these demands.

Speaking to the media, Bimbo Abioye, the Group Managing Director (GMD) of Fintrak Software Limited said,” We are desirous of meeting the international standard in financial services, we follow the best practices and these certification means a lot for us, and our client, it bestows a high level of confidence in us and our clients knowing that they are in good hands. “

He added that “We make our clients and business partners a priority and considering how sensitive the financial industry can be, we cannot leave any stone unturned that is why we ensure that our operations and services are top-notch and world-class that is why we go for the International Standard Organisation certification which is world recognized.

Bimbo credited these certifications to Fintrak’s unwavering dedication as an organization to uphold industry best practices, encompassing security and customer support. These certifications result from thorough audits and evaluations conducted by international bodies such as MSECB Management System Certificates, underscoring their rigorous nature.

The scope of these certifications encompasses essential aspects of software development, implementation, project delivery, and support. Additionally, it includes various service domains such as Information Technology, Customer Experience, Quality Assurance, Legal, Business Development, Finance, and Human Resources. This alignment follows the guidelines laid out in the Statement of Applicability (SoA).

As an international organization, the implementation of ISO 20000:2018, ISO 27001:2013; ISO 22301:2019, and ISO 9001:2015 standards by Fintrak Software assures companies and individuals doing business with Fintrak Software that the company is resilient and they are able to provide products, services, and financial solutions that meet customers and statutory requirements anywhere in the world. Fintak has deployed solutions in banks in various African countries such as Kenya, Ghana, Cameroon, and others with their products coming in English and French.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

BLOCKCHAIN DIALOGUE: NITDA, SiBAN ENGAGE STAKEHOLDERS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL POLICY

BLOCKCHAIN DIALOGUE: NITDA, SiBAN ENGAGE STAKEHOLDERS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL POLICY

 

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi CCIE has reiterated the fact that implementing the National Blockchain Policy in Nigeria will strengthen the Nation’s digital economy by expanding financial inclusion and security, enhancing openness and accountability, increasing efficiency in service delivery, and creating job opportunities.
Inuwa said this at the Policy Dialogue for the Implementation of the National Blockchain Policy which was held in Lagos.

While presenting a Keynote Address, the DG noted that the theme: “Driving Sustainable Economic Growth and Development through the Adoption of Blockchain Technology” speaks to the importance of the conversations around tech, stressing that Blockchain is a type of technology that is decentralised in nature and provides a secure way of recording and verifying information, making it trustworthy and resistant to tampering.

“As a groundbreaking advancement in the digital age, Blockchain has the potential to revolutionise our industries and could boost the global economy with US$1.76 trillion by 2030 according to research by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). As a result, Governments all over the world including Estonia, Georgia, United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, and Singapore are exploring how to leverage Blockchain technology to boost innovation, improve service delivery, create job opportunities, and drive economic growth”.

“While it is commendable that we have a Policy in place to catalyse the adoption of this ground-breaking technology and we are no more playing catch-up, the National Blockchain Policy is designed to be our roadmap for the adoption of Blockchain technology in Nigeria and its adoption presents a tremendous opportunity to promote the quality of services delivered by both public and private sectors”, Inuwa avowed.
According to the DG, Nigeria is the first country to develop a Policy on Blockchain in Africa, noting that the mission for embarking on the strategic initiative is to encourage the use, adoption and integration of Blockchain technology in the various sectors of Nigeria’s digital economy, in order to increase efficiency, innovation, transparency, security, and trust.

The DG explained that the Policy identified talent development, innovation, and adoption as the key areas that Government will collaborate with relevant stakeholders to harness the potential of Blockchain technology in Nigeria with the belief that the focus on talent development will facilitate the creation, attraction, and retention of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce in the industry which will promote innovation and enhance the competitiveness of the National Blockchain ecosystem.
“We are optimistic that the focus on innovation will create an enabling environment that encourages experimentation, provide resources to support innovation, and address regulatory barriers”.

“We are resolute that the focus on adoption will lead to acceptance and application of Blockchain in financial services as well as Government and Corporate Digital Services”, the DG assured.

Inuwa who recalled that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the National Blockchain Policy for Nigeria on 3rd May 2023 and directed the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to serve as the Secretariat for the purpose of implementing the policy under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, said that sequel to the approval, the ministry on 16th May 2023, had also inaugurated the National Blockchain Implementation and Steering Committee consisting of twenty-six (26) relevant stakeholders from the public and private sector to serve as the governing structure for the implementation of the Policy.

The NITDA Boss confirmed that the engagement was therefore set up to facilitate the development of a strategy that will drive the implementation of the Policy, with the hope that the strategy will outline all relevant stakeholders along with their various roles and responsibilities towards the implementation of the Policy.
“The National Blockchain Policy could not have come at a better time as the talent development and innovation focus areas of the Policy aligns perfectly with the manifesto of the current administration to create 1 million jobs for Nigerians through digital economy”.

“We are not unmindful of the fact that the adoption of Blockchain for digital economy activities is still in its early stages, and there are challenges and obstacles that must be addressed to fully reap the benefits of this technology. Hence, we must adopt a co-regulatory approach in the implementation of the policy to address these concerns holistically”, Inuwa said.

Inuwa appreciated the Federal Ministry of Communications & Digital Economy (FMoC&DE) for consistently providing adequate support to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in creating an enabling environment for all our stakeholders, representatives of Ministries, Departments, Agencies, ecosystem players, and the Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SIBAN) for their efforts in supporting and promoting the adoption of Blockchain technology in Nigeria.

Earlier in his welcome address, Acting Director, Digital Economy Development, NITDA, Engr Salisu Kaka alluded to the fact that Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative force, revolutionizing industries, and unlocking new possibilities across the globe.

Kaka while describing the gathering as an avenue to foster a collaborative environment where policymakers, experts, and innovators can come together to discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by blockchain, maintained that the dialogue serves as a crucial platform for sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas, and shaping policies that will enable the responsible adoption and utilization of blockchain technology.

“We believe that through open and constructive dialogue, we can harness the potential of blockchain to drive economic growth, enhance transparency, security, and promote social inclusion”, Kaka noted.

On his part, the President of Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SiBAN), Obinna Iwuno also added his voice to the fact that implementing the National Blockchain Policy collaboratively will help create a Blockchain-powered economy that supports secure transactions, data sharing, and value exchange between people, businesses, and Government thereby enhancing innovation, trust, growth, and prosperity for all Nigerians.

“The Policy will enable Nigeria harness the full potential of Blockchain technology and position it as a leader in the global Blockchain ecosystem. I urge us all to embrace this transformative technology and work together to build a prosperous future for Nigeria powered by Blockchain”, Iwuno encouraged.

The two day event which was organised by NITDA in collaboration with SiBAN featured different panel/discussion sessions where participants delved into various topics, ranging from regulatory frameworks and governance models to privacy and security considerations as well as presentations of communique at the end of deliberations.

With the crop of expertise and insights garnered from the conversations, the hope expressed is that the final approach to be adopted will undoubtedly contribute to the development of an informed implementation plan for the NBP, serve as a catalyst for positive change and pave the way for a future where blockchain technology empowers individuals and societies alike.

TotalEnergies’ Mike Sangster to Discuss the Future of African Exploration at African Energy Week (AEW) 2023

TotalEnergies’ Mike Sangster to Discuss the Future of African Exploration at African Energy Week (AEW) 2023

Africa is entering into a new era of oil and gas, driven largely by a continental focus on exploration. Global energy majors to the likes of TotalEnergies have not only represented long-term partners for African nations but have placed themselves at the forefront of the industry’s transformation. The French major has set its sights on new hydrocarbon plays in Africa, while correspondingly spearheading the sustainable development of existing operations.

 

During this year’s edition of the continent’s premier event for the oil and gas sector, African Energy Week (AEW) – scheduled for October 16-20 in Cape Town – TotalEnergies’ Mike Sangster will deliver a keynote address on the future of African exploration. While not officially announced yet, Sangster is in line to assume the role of Senior Vice-President Africa E&P at TotalEnergies, moving from his current position as Head of E&P for Nigeria at the company. During AEW 2023, Sangster will not only provide insight into TotalEnergies’ ambitious upstream agenda in Africa but lead dialogue around sustainable exploration, the role of local content and why Africa is set to play a central role in future supply chains.

TotalEnergies represents one of the longest-operating E&P companies in Africa, having been present on the continent for over 90 years. The energy major is currently active in 43 countries and boasts over 13,000 employees. Leveraging its experience and technological expertise, TotalEnergies is active across the entire energy value chain, and has a diverse portfolio with projects spanning the oil and gas industry, renewables sector and broader power and infrastructure markets.

TotalEnergies continues to demonstrate its commitment to Africa’s energy future

With sustainability at its core, TotalEnergies works collaboratively with African governments, National Oil Companies and service firms to unlock high returns on investment while yielding tangible opportunities for local communities. TotalEnergies has committed to achieving Net Zero by 2050. Through technological innovations, low-carbon investments and priority placed on capacity building, skills and technology transfer, the company continues to serve as a strong and steadfast partner for African countries. TotalEnergies is also the official Sustainable Energy Partner for AEW 2023, and Sangster is expected to further elaborate on how the company is leading the next wave of sustainable energy operations in Africa.

Going forward, TotalEnergies has set its eyes on unlocking new hydrocarbon finds in Africa, and is spearheading several exploratory campaigns in both mature and frontier markets. In Namibia, the company is driving a multi-well drilling campaign in the Orange Basin, kickstarted by a sizeable oil and gas discovery made in 2022. Earlier this year, the company announced plans to invest nearly 50% of its exploration budget ($300 million) into its Namibian activities. In Angola, the company has stakes in several assets in the Lower Congo and Kwanza Basin. Further south, TotalEnergies plans on exploring the South African side of the Orange Basin, recently acquiring environmental authorization to explore Block 5/6/7. The company was also responsible for two major gas finds in South Africa in 2019 and 2020, respectively: the Brulpadda and Luiperd discoveries.

In Mozambique, TotalEnergies’ upstream success saw major discoveries off the coast. Despite delays, the company is making progress towards getting its Mozambique Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project back on track. Also on the continent’s eastern coastline, TotalEnergies Lake Albert Basin developments are set to awaken a new era of energy security for the high-demand region. The company is developing the Tilenga and Kingfisher oilfield – scheduled to begin production in 2025 – as well as the East African Crude Oil Pipeline. In West Africa, TotalEnergies operates two deepwater blocks in Mauritania; the Rufisque and UDO blocks in Senegal; has interests in 30 licenses, five of which as operators, in Nigeria; and has interests in promising acreage in Gabon, Ivory Coast and the Republic of Congo.

“TotalEnergies continues to demonstrate its commitment to Africa’s energy future. The French energy major is not only investing heavily in existing assets but is driving the next wave of upstream campaigns in promising markets such as Namibia, Mozambique and South Africa. TotalEnergies investments in African upstream, local content and sustainability serves as a benchmark for other E&P firms active across the continent,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC).

During AEW 2023, Sangster will participate in various panel discussions and upstream forums, centered around emerging trends and challenges in Africa’s upstream market. His participation is expected to open up new opportunities for collaboration across the industry.

AEW is the AEC’s annual energy event uniting African governments and policymakers with global investors and project developers. Taking place in Cape Town, the event represents the biggest gathering of energy stakeholders on the continent, and takes place under a broader mandate of making energy poverty history by 2030. For more information, visit www.AECWeek.com

“Sandcastles”: A Heartfelt Film by Oluwatosin Akingbulu Inspires Global Parenting Advocacy during Parenting Month

“Sandcastles”: A Heartfelt Film by Oluwatosin Akingbulu Inspires Global Parenting Advocacy during Parenting Month

 

Renowned filmmaker Oluwatosin Akingbulu’s unwavering belief in the power of storytelling to drive impactful change has led to the creation of a remarkable cinematic endeavor, “Sandcastles,” designed to ignite a movement of parental support and advocacy. With an unrelenting dedication to his vision, Akingbulu has partnered with an exceptional team to produce a captivating movie that encapsulates the essence of nurturing families and strengthening bonds.

As the Executive Producer of “Sandcastles,” Oluwatosin Akingbulu has meticulously crafted a compelling narrative that delves into the nuanced challenges young children face, shedding light on the pivotal role that playful parenting plays in their development. The film serves as a poignant call to action for decision-makers and parents alike, urging them to rally behind the cause of fostering a supportive environment for families.

Released in honor of Parenting Month this year, “Sandcastles” has already made a resounding impact, capturing the hearts of audiences in three countries through its thought-provoking screenings. The film is poised to extend its reach to additional countries and regions in the coming months, facilitating broader engagement with its powerful message.

A highlight of this inspiring journey is the film’s recent recognition at the prestigious London Director Awards, where “Sandcastles” earned an honorable mention in the esteemed Best Director – Short Fiction category. Furthermore, the film has garnered acclaim as a semi-finalist at the esteemed Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Fest, along with being designated an Official Selection at the esteemed Hollywood Shortsfest, with more accolades anticipated on the horizon.

The writer extends her heartfelt gratitude to the remarkable collaborators who have contributed their unwavering support and dedication to bring “Sandcastles” to life. He acknowledges the invaluable partnership with the UNICEF team and Rooftop crew, particularly Nicholas Ledner, for his steadfast commitment to the project’s vision. Co-producer Prince Gregorio and co-producer Juan Haro Simarro have been instrumental in elevating the film’s impact. At the same time, the remarkable contributions of the Collins brothers, Richard and Melissa, alongside the entire cast and crew, have been pivotal in realizing the film’s potential.

The global success of “Sandcastles” would not have been possible without the extraordinary efforts of Maria Fernandez Ruiz de Larrinaga and Taonga Kangwa in Zambia, and Maxime Le Lijour in Slovakia, whose dedication has amplified the film’s resonance. Special appreciation is extended to Benjamin Perks, Zeinab Hijazi (MSc, PsyD), and Emma Ferguson for their ongoing commitment to the project’s success.

The film’s journey has been supported by the invaluable contributions of senior management, the dedicated Mental Health team, and the collaborative efforts of the Parenting Working Group. Oluwatosin Akingbulu expresses sincere gratitude to The LEGO Foundation for their unwavering support and to every individual who has played a role in the triumph of “Sandcastles.”

“Sandcastles” continues to captivate hearts and minds, advocating for the transformative power of parental support and fostering empathy in families worldwide. While currently available for local screenings, the film’s online release is eagerly anticipated in the near future, inviting a broader audience to join the movement of meaningful change.

Why you need a cyber last line of defence

Why you need a cyber last line of defence

 

To truly secure your business from the growing threat of ransomware, you need a solution that closes the gap in the last mile of a predominant ‘defence in depth’ strategy, creating a genuine ‘last line of defence’.

With ransomware fast becoming one of the biggest global security threats, it is no surprise to learn that even in South Africa, the cost of such an attack is massive – statistics indicate that the average expense to remediate such an attack is in the region of R6.4 million.

With ransomware making cybersecurity more critical than ever, most companies have adopted a principle called ‘defence-in-depth’. This entails implementing firewalls, endpoint protection, application and API security, data protection, anti-phishing and Internet of Things (IoT) security and potentially even kill switches.

However, explains Patrick Evans, CEO of SLVA Cybersecurity, regardless of how complete such a strategy is, the fact remains that such an approach is only about 98% effective, and simply cannot protect you all the time especially given the human factor in the whole security fabric.

“These types of attacks generally target file shares, which is why a standard security implementation should be augmented by a last line of defence solution – one designed to stop malicious encryption on monitored file shares and file servers,” he says.

“When one considers that a ransomware attack can easily encrypt up to 25 000 files per minute, the need for a solution like BullWall becomes obvious. It delivers a proven, 24/7 automated response, complementing existing security defences and instantaneously detecting data anomalies and events.”

Essentially, he indicates, what a last line of defence like Bullwall does is to listen to all the traffic on a company’s network, regardless of whether it is connected to the cloud or not. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques during its initial deployment, it can quickly learn what legitimate filing encryption looks like in a specific environment. Armed with this knowledge, it can quickly tell whether any file encryption in the system is illegitimate.

“If a business is hit by a ransomware attack, this can rapidly and easily be contained, thanks to BullWall. The solution can also tell you exactly where the incident happened, so your security team can quickly determine Ground Zero.”

In addition, should any encryption have occurred, the solution is quickly able to tell exactly which files were encrypted and where they are located, enabling the business to restore them in a fast and efficient manner. And on top of this, notes Evans, it can help your company remain on the right side of the law – in what is a highly regulated environment – by producing all the paperwork necessary for filing with the regulator.

“Not only is this the ideal solution to eliminate that 2% security gap, it is also one that is simple to deploy with a limited footprint and operating in listen-only mode, and will provide that final line of defence that has become especially imperative in the post-pandemic world of remote or hybrid work environments, both for on-prem and cloud environments.”

Considering that South Africa is one of the top five most targeted nations for ransomware in the world, implementing a last line of defence should be less a ‘nice to have’ and much more of an ‘absolutely have to have’. BullWall is the answer to becoming more resilient, and offers a way to ensure business continuity in the face of a growing barrage of ransomware attacks,” he concludes.