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Danbatta to Receive National Productivity Order of Merit Award for Outstanding Contributions to Industry

Danbatta to Receive National Productivity Order of Merit Award for Outstanding Contributions to Industry

 

Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), will be conferred with the esteemed National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award, among other notable Nigerians.

The announcement was made in an advertorial signed by the Director General of the National Productivity Center, Dr. Nasir Olaitan Raji-Mustapha, heralding Danbatta’s exceptional achievements and significant contributions to the development and advancement of the Nigerian telecommunications industry.

The NPOM Award recognises individuals, who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication in their respective fields, and Danbatta’s recognition highlights his outstanding contributions to the NCC and the telecommunications sector as a whole.

During his tenure at the NCC, Danbatta has spearheaded several initiatives that have revolutionized the telecommunications landscape in Nigeria. His visionary leadership and strategic decisions have led to remarkable achievements and noteworthy milestones for the industry.

Some of the key accomplishments attributed to Danbatta’s tenure include the promotion of broadband penetration, consumer empowerment and protection, sustainable industry growth, and digital inclusion and innovation, among others.
Under the promotion of broadband penetration, Danbatta’s relentless efforts to enhance broadband connectivity across Nigeria have resulted in substantial improvements in internet access and affordability. This has played a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth.

In the area of consumer empowerment and protection, Danbatta has prioritized the interests and rights of telecom consumers, implementing consumer-centric policies and initiatives. Notably, the NCC’s Toll-Free Line for Consumer Complaints, introduced under his leadership, has provided an accessible platform for addressing consumer grievances and ensuring their protection.

With respect to sustainable industry growth, under Prof Danbatta’s guidance, the telecommunications sector has witnessed significant investments and healthy competition. His strategic leadership has fueled innovation, resulting in sustainable industry growth and a positive impact on Nigeria’s economy.

Also, recognizing the transformative power of digital technology, Danbatta has championed programmess to promote digital inclusion and empower marginalized communities in his efforts to deepen digital inclusion and innovation. Initiatives such as the NCC’s Digital Nigeria Centre (DNC), formerly known as the School Knowledge Centers (SKCs) and Emergency Communication Centers (ECCs) have improved access to digital resources and enhanced emergency response capabilities across the nation.

The conferment of the 2023 NPOM Award on Danbatta serves as a testament to his remarkable achievements and exceptional leadership within the NCC. His contributions have not only positioned Nigeria as a key player in the global digital landscape but have also positively impacted the lives of millions of Nigerians.
The NPOM Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates individuals, who have made significant contributions to productivity, innovation, and national development. Danbatta’s well-deserved recognition further solidifies his reputation as a transformative leader and industry trailblazer.

The entire telecommunications industry and the nation, at large, celebrate Danbatta’s achievements and extend their heartfelt congratulations

on the conferment of the 2023 NPOM Award. His exemplary leadership and contributions serve as an inspiration to future generations and reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to technological progress and national productivity.

Africa Day: ‘Let’s put our resources at risk behind Africa’s young people’ – Adesina

Africa Day: ‘Let’s put our resources at risk behind Africa’s young people’ – Adesina

Delegates attending the 2023 African Development Bank Group’s  (http://www.AfDB.org) Annual Meetings in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, celebrated Africa Day on Thursday amid hopes for better prospects for the continent and its youth.

 

The commemoration, which marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the African Union, allowed for retrospection by member countries on how the continent can surmount its challenges towards achieving prosperity.

 

The Bank’s Secretary General Vincent Nmehielle presided over the event.

 

The audience included Egyptian government ministers and businesspeople who joined the Bank Group’s governors to celebrate the milestone.

 

Addressing the event, African Development Bank President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, said the occasion must provide the impetus for the continent to rise, challenges notwithstanding.

 

“Africa should lift itself economically, financially, and politically to surmount every hurdle in its way,” Adesina said, stressing that the continent has abundant resources that, if well-managed, can help move it forward.

 

“We have great sunshine; we have water… we have 65% of the arable land left to feed 9 billion people worldwide by 2050. We have minerals and metals – 80% of the world’s platinum is in Africa, 50% of the world’s cobalt is in Africa, 40% of the world’s nickel is in Africa,” the Bank chief reiterated.

 

He said there must be consistent efforts to bolster peace and security to attract foreign investment and expand trade.

 

He called on political and business leaders to put resources at risk behind Africa’s young people, who he said, are very innovative.

 

“Africa has young people that can grow bigger than Bill Gates; that can grow bigger than (Mark) Zuckerberg,” Adesina said, adding that the youth’s potential is evident in the fintech industry, which young people dominate.

 

Adesina cited various human capital support programs being implemented by the Bank to prop up startups. These include its YouthAdapt program, initiated jointly with the Global Center for Adaptation.

 

Adesina said the Bank is also setting up youth entrepreneurship investment banks across Africa to support young people’s businesses. “Africa can have youth-based wealth, and to have that youth-based wealth, we need financial institutions around them.”

Africa should lift itself economically, financially, and politically to surmount every hurdle in its way

 

He mentioned some celebrated African professionals who have excelled abroad in diverse areas, saying the African diaspora is replete with talent that must be attracted to play a role in the continent’s transformation agenda.

 

In his opening speech, Dr. Albert Muchanga, African Union Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, paid tribute to African heroes who sacrificed to see the continent progress.

 

He noted that the continent’s progress over the 60 years has been mixed.

 

“As we look at the road travelled 60 years ago, we can celebrate some achievements, and one key achievement is continental unity; we can also not deny that there have been setbacks, and one of the key setbacks is unconstitutional changes of government,” Muchanga said.

 

He said all is not lost, adding that there are high hopes for the new generation to drive the continent’s future. “The youth are the innovators, and they are able to take advantage of emerging technologies.”

 

He said the AU had instituted schemes across all its departments, including a Junior Professional Program to equip young graduates. It also has a start-up program that complements youth initiatives implemented by partner organizations such as the African Development Bank.

 

Dr. Muchanga mentioned the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area to foster trade policy harmonization and eventually transform the agreement into a common market that will lead to adopting a single currency union.

 

The event featured a panel of selected youth entrepreneurs from the continent who shared their experiences about their challenges while seeking financial support for their startups.

 

Thursday’s celebration showcased rich African culture through music and dance as proceedings were interspersed with traditional and pan-African pop music, drawing attendees, including scores of youth, to the floor.

 

In an illustration, Egypt’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Ashraf Sobhy, shared the successes of various initiatives implemented by his government to build the capacity of the youth. These include leadership programs involving the youth across the continent in partnership with the African Development Bank and Egypt’s central bank.

 

Sobhy called for further feasibility studies to assess the needs of the youth to provide the right environment for them to initiate critical projects for the continent’s transformation.

 

He said the Bank Group’s 2023 Annual Meeting recommendations would be essential to carving a path for the youth, whom he described as “the tree of life for our continent.”

GoGlobal Expands Global Presence to Africa with Local Offices in 18 Countries

GoGlobal Expands Global Presence to Africa with Local Offices in 18 Countries

GoGlobal (https://GoGlobalgeo.com/), a leading Employer of Record (EOR) is expanding its global footprint with the launch of on-the-ground offices in 18 African countries. The strategic move allows GoGlobal to offer comprehensive local coverage in one-third of the African continent, positioning the company as a key player in supporting multinational companies (MNCs) expanding into Africa.

VIDEO
GoGlobal Behind the Scenes

VIDEO
Expanding our Local Presence to Africa

 

Nick Broughton (https://apo-opa.info/3WEUgO2), Partner at GoGlobal, says, “Africa has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a future prospect to a region teeming with immediate opportunities. With its youthful, talented and highly educated workforce, Africa is a dynamic hub of business potential.”

For companies looking to expand globally in industries such as technology, agribusiness, NGOs, financial services, construction and engineering, Africa is emerging as a land of boundless opportunities. With a growing population, a pool of talented professionals, a promising economy, robust infrastructure development and investor-friendly policies, Africa is quickly becoming top of mind for MNCs worldwide.

Partnering with an EOR is a way for companies to accelerate their growth strategy in Africa

Africa’s strategic positioning as a hub for international business presents a multitude of benefits, particularly for companies from China, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and North America. As part of its expansion, GoGlobal is providing end-to-end recruitment solutions, enabling MNCs to build exceptional teams in Africa and secure the right talent for their needs. By tapping into Africa’s vast talent pool, MNCs benefit from a dynamic workforce, gaining access to localized insights and cost-effective operations.

“Partnering with an EOR is a way for companies to accelerate their growth strategy in Africa,” says Ashwin Tirvassen (https://apo-opa.info/3IHD6tx), Africa Regional Director, GoGlobal. “Strategic companies are choosing to partner with GoGlobal to navigate cross-border human resources, which can be complex.”

GoGlobal has in-country experts in Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Broughton adds, “Our deep knowledge of each country’s unique cultural customs, language and regulatory environment enables us to provide tailored and personalized solutions to MNCs, empowering them to expand quickly, cost-effectively and compliantly.”

COURE Celebrates 25 years of Providing Innovative Digital Solutions

COURE Celebrates 25 years of Providing Innovative Digital Solutions

 

COURE Software & Systems Limited (“COURE”), an indigenous information technology (IT) firm located in Lagos, will be marking 25 years of existence, 15 of which have been spent deploying IT solutions and services in Nigeria and other African countries. From telecoms to financial to the public sector, the company has made tremendous strides in various sectors of the economy.

Speaking to the media, COURE’s CEO, Uche Onwudiwe described the company as, “a platform services provider with a focus on the provision of accurate, secure and relevant data to improve its clients’ business processes and operations.” He reflected on the journey so far, noting that the company “started out in the US in 1998 at a time when the internet and modern technology, as we know it, were taking off. At that time, we were focused on networking and physical systems integration.”

COURE’s CEO, Uche Onwudiwe
COURE’s CEO, Uche Onwudiwe

“Over the years, the shifts in technology and the need to be scalable beyond billing for individual man hours caused us to migrate our technology services first to web and application development, then to what we currently provide today, which are platforms that leverage standardized and aggregated data to enable and enhance the operational efficiency of our clients. It has been an exciting 25-year journey of change and transformation! Our flagship solutions, ANQ and HUB, have been enabling the telecom, fintech, banking and various other sectors to increase their value to their customers. Our development teams consist of analysts, UI/UX experts, programmers, product managers and network engineers all of whom have many years of experience in the design, development and support of clean, functional and aesthetically appealing applications and solutions.”

On their strides in many critical sectors, COURE Chief Executive Officer added that “COURE has established key partnerships in the telco, banking, fintech, payments and public sector spaces. Through our platforms, we are able to aggregate various types of data, analyze the data, and create services that provide value to these organizations and generate revenue for them. This makes us an enabler of fintech firms as opposed to being one ourselves.”CC

“Our ANQ (All Number Query) is a lookup platform that provides quick and easy access to information which enables our clients support their customers in areas such as Fraud prevention, Routing and KYC (Know Your Customer) using various number and data sources. Our partnership with data owners and access to large volumes of diversified data along with our processing capacity and intelligent algorithms enables us apply real-time analytics to data that is being searched against and provide information to businesses to aid their decision-making.”

“Our HUB platform is what is called a CPaaS – Communication Platform as a Service. It enables Aggregators and Value-Added Service (VAS) providers in the telecom industry to integrate with the Telcos, then safely and accurately deliver messages between the applications through the Telcos and onward to the end customer and back. Message types include Bulk SMS, USSD, Whatsapp and RCS (Rich Communication Services). It also addresses a number of industry issues and concerns such as the management of Sender IDs and Short codes. HUB is a ready-to-use platform for SMEs to create and manage their services, content, and subscriptions. It is convenient and requires no local installation.”

Throughout the years, the IT organization has faced various challenges. Onwudiwe commented on some of these challenges, citing as an example, the loss of talented IT resources across the sector. He stated that due to the insecurity and economic hardships in the country, the technology sector has experienced a loss of talent, many of whom have fled the country in search of supposedly greener pastures. This has made it crucial for COURE to implement a proactive recruitment and talent retention strategy to prevent the negative effects of this trend from affecting its business.

The organization has grown in leaps and bounds, having extended its partnership reach to many African countries. Onwudiwe noted that, “Our routing services are present in most African countries including Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Côte D’Ivoire, Benin, Senegal, Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt. Our 2023 roll-out plan includes expansion to key regions within the continent with a focus on Ghana, Uganda and South Africa. ”

In addition to its expansion plans, COURE will be adding a 3rd platform to its suite, the OpenBanking platform, in alignment with the CBN’s Open Banking Initiative. The OpenBanking platform offers financial data owners the opportunity to monetize their data by making it available to third-party financial services securely and efficiently via APIs. He noted that they have already partnered with some banks to pilot the solution and are excited about the ease and convenience that customers will enjoy when they use applications that leverage these services. He expressed optimism about the future, noting that they expect great times ahead!

 

 

 

 

 

“Our HUB platform is what is called a CPaaS – Communication Platform as a Service. It enables Aggregators and Value-Added Service (VAS) providers in the telecom industry to integrate with the Telcos, then safely and accurately deliver messages between the applications through the Telcos and onward to the end customer and back. Message types include Bulk SMS, USSD, Whatsapp and RCS (Rich Communication Services). It also addresses a number of industry issues and concerns such as the management of Sender IDs and Short codes. HUB is a ready-to-use platform for SMEs to create and manage their services, content, and subscriptions. It is convenient and requires no local installation.”

FAREWELL SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

FAREWELL SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA
My fellow Nigerian brothers, sisters and friends of Nigeria.
I address you today, in my last assignment as a democratically elected President of our great and well-endowed nation, with a deep sense of gratitude to God, a great deal of appreciation to the Nigerian people and a modest sense of fulfilment.
Today we mark and celebrate another peaceful transition of power from one elected government to another in our steady march to improve and sustain Nigeria’s democracy.
This year we witnessed the most keenly contested Presidential Elections since the first Republic and this demonstrates that our democracy is getting better and more entrenched with each election.
We must as a nation improve and sustain gains we make in the electoral process, on an incremental basis for Nigeria to take its rightful place among Nations.
Our democracy provides for, allows and encourages seeking redress for perceived injustices, enabling some candidates and political parties that did not agree with the results to go to court.
Irrespective of the outcome of the various cases, I urge all parties involved to accept the decision of our courts and join hands to build a better Nigeria.
I salute the doggedness and resilience of all the Presidential Candidates and their political parties for believing in our judicial system by taking their grievances with the election results to court.
In the course of the campaigns, we had argued and disagreed on how to make Nigeria better but we never disagreed or had any doubts that Nigeria has to be better.
As your President, I call on all of us to bring to bear the strength of our individualism, the power of our unity, the convictions of our beliefs to make Nigeria work better and together with one spirit and one purpose.
To my brother, friend and fellow worker in the political terrain for the past ten years – Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu -, I congratulate you on the realisation of your dream, which was propelled by a burning passion to put Nigeria amongst the leading nations of the world.
You have indeed worked for this day and God has crowned your efforts. I have no doubt that your passion for excellence, reliance on competence, fairness in relationships, commitment to equity, loyalty to the country and desire for Nigeria to be globally relevant would come through for you, under God’s guidance, as you lead our country to levels higher that I am leaving.
You are the best candidate among all the contestants and Nigerians have chosen well.
The last eight years have been an exciting experience in my desire and commitment to see a Nigeria in which public goods and services are available, and accessible within a united, peaceful and secure nation.
Fellow Nigerians, on the strength of your overwhelming support for me and my political party, I started this journey with a great deal of promise and expectation from you. I never intended to be just politically correct but to do the correct things that will make meaningful impact on the lives of the common Nigerian.
This high expectation was not misplaced because, like the ordinary Nigerian, I had grown tired of watching the country progressively moving away from the path of correctness.
To ensure that our democracy remains resilient and our elected representatives remain accountable to the people, I am leaving behind an electoral process which guarantees that votes count, results are credible, elections are fair and transparent and the influence of money in politics reduced to the barest minimum. And Nigerians can elect leaders of their choice.
We are already seeing the outcome of this process as it provided an even playing field where persons without any political God-Father or access to money defeated other well-resourced candidates.
The Nigerian economy has become more resilient due to the various strategies put in place to ensure that our economy remained afloat during cases of global economic downturns.
You would all recall the supply chain disruptions and economic downturn that the world witnessed between 2020 and 2022 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The deftness of our response to the pandemic still remains a global best practice.
Furthermore, we increased the ability of the poor and rural Nigerians to earn a living, provided more food for millions in our villages and gave our women opportunities to earn a living.
Young men and women in urban centres were also supported to put their skills into productive use. Our administration also provided an enabling environment for the private sector to engage in businesses for which their return on investments is guaranteed.
The private sector proved a strong partner in our drive to build a resilient and sustainable economy as evidenced by the growing number of turn-key projects in various sectors of the economy.
In the course of revamping the economy, we made some difficult choices, most of which yielded the desired results. Some of the measures led to temporary pain and suffering for which I sincerely apologised to my fellow countrymen, but the measures were taken for the over-all good of the country.
Mindful of the need to ensure adequate infrastructure to drive economic growth, we completed age-long projects and processes notably amongst which are the Petroleum Industry Act, completion of some power projects, completion of the second Niger bridge and various important roads linking cities and states.
Our battle to ensure that all Nigerians live in a safe and secure environment has achieved considerable results. As I complete my term in office, we have been able to reduce the incidences of banditry, terrorism, armed robbery and other criminal activities considerably.
To sustain the gains made so far, I call on all Nigerians to be more vigilant and support the security agencies by ensuring that our values defined by being your brothers’ keeper govern our actions.
Up-till now, I still grieve for our children still in captivity, mourn with parents, friends and relatives of all those that lost loved ones in the days of the senseless brigandage and carnage. For all those under unlawful captivity our Security Agencies are working round the clock to secure their release unharmed.
Fellow Nigerians, you know how dear the desire in my heart is, to rid the country of corrupt practices that had consistently diminished our efforts to be a great country.
I did pursue this commitment relentlessly, in spite of the expected push back. I am happy that considerable progress had been made in repatriating huge sums of money back to the country and also taken over properties illegally acquired from our common wealth.
To improve service delivery, we began the implementation of a number of reforms aimed at producing an Efficient, Productive, Incorruptible and Citizen-oriented (EPIC) Federal Civil Service and the results are beginning to show.
On the international scene, Nigeria’s influence continues to grow as exemplified by notable Nigerians occupying headship and leadership positions in renowned global bodies.
Our democracy is built on and continues to thrive on the principles of separation of powers. The leadership and members of the National Assembly deserve my appreciation for their patriotism which did not detract from their roles as a check to the executive arm.
I also want to use this opportunity to express my appreciation to a good number of Nigerians who provided their support and encouragement to help me navigate the exciting journey in moving Nigeria forward.
I cannot and will not forget the millions who prayed for me during my illness in my first term of office. I am constantly praying for you and for Nigeria to thrive in peace.
As I retire home to Daura, Katsina State, I feel fulfilled that we have started the Nigeria Re-Birth by taking the initial critical steps and I am convinced the in-coming administration will quicken the pace of this walk to see a Nigeria that fulfils its destiny to be a great nation.
I am confident that I am leaving office with Nigeria better in 2023 than in 2015.
I thank you all. And may God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Lagos Chamber of Commerce Seeks NCC’s Partnership on 2022 ICTEL Expo

Lagos Chamber of Commerce Seeks NCC’s Partnership on 2022 ICTEL Expo
The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has sought the collaboration of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the successful execution of the 2022 Information Communication Technology and Telecommunication (ICTEL) Expo.
This was the focus of the discussion between the two organisations, during a courtesy visit by delegates from LCCI to the Commission in Abuja recently.
Speaking during the visit, which took place at NCC’s Head Office (Annex) Mbora, Abuja, the Director, Trade Promotions, LCCI, Seriki Oyediran, said that the objective of the visitation was to discuss with the Management of NCC toward achieving the objectives of the 8th Edition of the ICTEL Expo focusing on: “Ensuring Efficient Digital
Infrastructure in Nigeria.”
Oyediran acknowledged that the participation of NCC at the annual trade fair in previous years has added colour, focus and clarity, and ensured the success of previous events. He, therefore, called on the Commission to partner with the Chamber to enable it to record greater success in the ICTEL 2022 edition.
Responding, Director, Digital Economy, Dr. Austin Nwaulune, who received the delegation on behalf of the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, applauded LCCI for its consistency in organising the annual confernce.
Nwaulune stated that the theme of this year’s conference aligns with the Commission’s focus on facilitating infrastructural development and deployment to enhance socio-economic development of Nigeria.
Demonstrating the connection between the thematic focus of the conference and NCC mandates and activities, Nwaulune explained that, through the NCC, the Federal Government has established various policies such as the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (2020-2025), which is being vigorously implemented to improve broadband infrastructure across the country.
The Director Digital Economy Department at the Commission, also recalled efforts of the Commission in ensuring that the seven Infrastructure Companies (InfraCos) already licensed by the telecom regulator accelerated their infrastructure deployment across the six geo-political zones of the country.
The Director commended the organisers for the calibre of sponsors listed for the expo and asserted that the event will be a hub for stakeholders such as Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), InfraCos and international organisations, and offer them the opportunity to glean developments in the country and to deepen their interests in promoting innovation, competition.
In his comments, the NCC Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, Efosa Idehen, explained that the Commission has evidently adopted an open-door policy and particularly through its consumer-centric initiatives. He also emphasised that the Commission appreciates collaboration with stakeholders whose programmes allow consumers to interact with the service providers.
“The NCC prioritises the consumers. We therefore see this forthcoming expo as another opportunity for the consumer’s voice to be heard as they interface with service providers. This is based on our regulatory mandate of ensuring that consumers of telecommunications services get value for their money and are treated right as critical stakeholders in the telecom ecosystem,” Idehen stated to reiterate NCC’s commitment to the promotion, protection and defence of the interests of telecom consumers.

Morocco unites global tech community’s commitment to advancing African digital economy at momentous GITEX Africa launch

Morocco unites global tech community’s commitment to advancing African digital economy at momentous GITEX Africa launch

 

 

Debut of Africa’s largest tech and start-up show to welcome 900 companies to explore, discover, and connect to real opportunities in world’s rising digital economy

 

H.E Dr Ghita Mezzour: “We’re witnessing a historic event, the largest tech networking and business event in the African continent”

 

 

Morocco will centre the global tech community’s attention on Africa’s united commitment to advancing the digital economy next week, converging the best minds from governments, businesses, big tech, start-ups, investors and youths to accelerate and catalyse the continent’s ambitious digital transformation journey. 

 

GITEX Africa 2023, now the largest tech and start-up show in the African continent, will make its highly anticipated debut from 31 May-2 June, with the final preparations underway across ten halls and 45,000sqm of exhibition space in a purpose-built super venue at Place Bab Jdid, Bd Al Yarmouk in the Red City of Marrakech. It will welcome 900 big tech companies, government entities, start-ups and participants from more than 100 countries, while attracting tens of thousands of attendees from all over the world. 

 

GITEX Africa is the largest business event launch of any industry in the Middle East and Africa in recent years, and is affiliated with GITEX Global in Dubai, the world’s largest tech and start-up show, rated by global tech executives as the world’s best global tech event.

 

Held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, GITEX Africa is hosted by the Digital Development Agency (ADD), under the authority of the Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform.

 

Addressing media at the show’s official preview press conference today was H.E Dr Ghita Mezzour, Minister of the Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform; Sidi Mohammed Drissi Melyani, the General Director of ADD; and Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, GITEX Africa’s organiser. 

 

In attendance were GITEX Africa’s official institutional partners the ANRT (Moroccan National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency), AMDIE (Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency), ONMT (Moroccan National Tourist Office), ONDA (National Airports Office), Royal Air Maroc, and ONCF (Moroccan National Railway Office).

“The Kingdom of Morocco is proud to host GITEX Africa under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him,” said H.E. Dr Mezzour.  “We’re witnessing a historic event, the first ever edition of GITEX Africa, and the largest tech networking and learning business event in the African continent.

 

“GITEX Africa will be an opportunity for Moroccan and African start-ups owners and young programmers to get in touch with regional and global investors and business incubators. An opportunity as well to networking with actors in both public and private sectors.”

 

Mr. Sidi Mohammed Drissi Melyani, the General Director of ADD, added that hosting GITEX Africa underlines Morocco’s commitment to work alongside the private and public sector to accelerate Africa’s digital infrastructure development while promoting cross-continental e-governance policies that improve digital transparency, openness and process integration: “The Kingdom of Morocco as well as the whole African continent is so honoured to host the first edition of GITEX Africa Morocco, which will take place in Marrakech from May 31st to June 2nd, 2023,” said Mr. Melyani.

 

“This big event, organised under the high patronage of his Majesty the King Mohammed VI, is an important opportunity to value the efforts deployed by all the Moroccan stakeholders in the field of digital development. It is also a platform of networking between exhibitors, investors, researchers and tech operators around innovative solutions and digital transformation.  This first edition will definitely contribute to enhance digital transition in Africa as a future innovation hub, led by its young talents and competitive start-ups.”

 

Magnifying Africa’s collective digital innovation ambitions and achievements

 

GITEX Africa’s impressive scale in its debut edition reflects the ambitions of Africa’s digital movement, with cross-continental initiatives such as Smart Africa’s vision to create a single digital market in Africa by 2030 propelling the continent to the forefront of the global digital economy.

 

“For too long, the world’s second largest continent has been under-stated and overlooked for its profound digital opportunities and aspirations,” commented Ms. LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International.  

 

“At GITEX Africa, our mission is to curate an event that will serve the purpose of the African community in accessing business development, investment and learning opportunities.  We focus on empowering the new generation of tech and creative talents to augment the culture of entrepreneurship and provide a single occasion that shall bring together the public and private sector leaderships to build tangible meaningful outcomes.”

 

That GITEX Africa hoisted the sold-out sign fuelling further expansion months before its grand opening is testament to the world’s confidence and optimism in the African digital opportunity, amplified by figures that underline the aspirations of African countries in their quest for digital excellence.

 

Africa’s vibrant start-up ecosystem also continues to grab headlines with the creation of seven unicorns over the last few years while according to analysts Briter Bridges, African start-ups raised a total of US$5.4 billion across 900-plus deals in 2022.

 

The influx of global interest will see GITEX Africa 2023 host more than 400 disruptive start-ups from 30 countries, including 200 international award-winning start-ups and 11 unicorns eager to share their achievements and access the promising African innovation hub.  

 

All will have the opportunity to connect with 250 investors from 34 countries with US$200 billion worth of assets under management. As the ultimate start-up incubator and magnet for flourishing VC funds, GITEX Africa will deliver a structured and carefully curated scouting platform for these investors, of which 70 percent are coming from outside of Africa. 

 

Added Ms. LohMirmand: “GITEX integrates Africa strategically into the hyper-connected tech ecosystem across 100 countries. It now firmly plugs Africa into the global entrepreneurial innovation economy boasting of resources imperative for the region to dynamize its digital transformation mission.”

 

Accelerating the Moroccan digital development strategy

 

GITEX Africa 2023 will also accentuate the progress of Morocco’s digital development strategy, strengthening its position among the top three African countries with the best ICT infrastructure, and underlining its status as having one of the continent’s most advanced telecommunications markets.

 

According to analysts IDC, Morocco’s IT market, comprising hardware, software and IT services, is expected to reach a value of US$1.7 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 4.3 percent to reach US$1.9 billion in 2026. In 2023, growth is expected to be driven by enterprise and service provider spending in the North African country as organisations increasingly look to adopt hybrid cloud as a step towards their digital transformation initiatives.

 

World’s best minds gather at Africa’s most impactful leadership conference agenda

 

Africa’s most impactful leadership conference programme will meanwhile gather 250-plus speakers from 50 countries to share valuable exchanges and insights with a curious business audience motivated to draw on international experience applied to an African-centric context. 

 

The GITEX Africa Digital Summit will lead ten conference tracks comprising 140-plus hours of mind-stretching content exploring the most pertinent transformational topics advancing Africa’s digital agenda, from generative AI and digital cities, or Fintech and agritech, to healthcare, energy, innovation, sustainable development goals, and a spotlight on the world’s most exciting start-up ecosystem.

 

GITEX Africa 2023 is open from 11:30am to 6:00pm on 31st May, and from 10:00am to 6:00pm on the 1st and 2nd June.  Admission is for trade professionals only with a special invitation for students aged 16 years and older on day three.

 

More information is available at www.gitexafrica.com.

 

-ENDS-

 

Website:

https://www.gitexafrica.com/

Spearheading Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) innovation in Africa and beyond

Spearheading Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) innovation in Africa and beyond

 

 

 

In recent years, Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs) have become a bedrock of financial systems worldwide, shaping the way businesses, consumers, and banks interact. Andrew Springate, CEO of tech and financial gateway service provider PAYM8 says that by participating significantly in the EFT landscape’s modernisation, including Authenticated Collections (DebiCheck) in South Africa and Enhanced Debit Orders (ENDO) in Namibia, PAYM8 stands ready to lead further innovation for the benefit of businesses and consumers.

 

In an effort to offer more security and control to consumers, the Authenticated Collections (DebiCheck) system was introduced in South Africa. DebiCheck is a significant step forward, allowing consumers to authenticate and approve future debit orders. This system not only provides an added layer of protection against fraudulent transactions but also empowers customers by involving them more directly in their financial management.

 

In a parallel development, Namibia saw the introduction of Enhanced Debit Orders (ENDO). This initiative brought about an evolution in the EFT market, improving efficiency and transparency in debit order processing. PAYM8’s involvement in these two initiatives underscores its commitment to leading industry research and development, resulting in viable and sustainable products.

 

As part of the Reserve Bank’s modernisation project, EFTs are now making waves in the online payments sector. Services such as the industry-wide interoperable Rapid Payments Programme as well as Capitec Pay, an open banking product, are stepping into the limelight.

 

The advantages of rapid, irrevocable transactions

The introduction of instant EFT services brings with it a wealth of benefits. These include immediate settlement, often within 15 seconds, irrevocability, and simplicity of use. Immediate settlement means that transactions are processed and completed in an extremely short time frame, which has considerable implications for businesses’ cash flow and financial management. The irrevocability of these transactions also increases security, reducing the risk of fraudulent reversals.

 

The simplicity of these new EFT services, which are often proxy-based, cannot be understated. By making electronic funds transfers easy and intuitive, PAYM8 and other industry players are removing barriers to adoption and facilitating the transition towards a digital economy.

 

Open banking, and open banking products play a crucial role in the modernisation of the EFT market. By allowing bank and non-bank partnerships, it paves the way for wallet-based acceptance brands that can attract previously unbanked consumers into the formal market. This approach not only expands access to financial services but also fosters financial literacy, reducing reliance on cash and driving the growth of a vibrant digital economy.

 

Overcoming challenges for a prosperous EFT future

While the road towards a modernised EFT market in southern Africa is promising, it is not without challenges. These include, but are not limited to, technology infrastructure, regulatory compliance, customer education, and data security. However, with the right approach, these hurdles are not insurmountable.

 

By working closely with industry stakeholders and leveraging its expertise, PAYM8 is poised to address these issues effectively and continue to lead the way in the EFT market.

 

As we move into the future, the promise of EFTs and open banking as catalysts for financial inclusion and economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa is becoming increasingly clear. By providing quick, secure, and easy-to-use financial solutions, companies such as PAYM8 are not only reshaping the banking landscape but are also playing a crucial role in promoting financial literacy and creating a more inclusive economy.

 

While the journey towards a fully modernised EFT market in Africa has its challenges, the opportunities far outweigh them. With the continued commitment of industry leaders, the future of electronic funds transfers in Africa is bright. The progress made so far offers a glimpse into a future where banking is more accessible, efficient, and secure, where consumers are more empowered, and where economies are more robust and inclusive.

 

Nigeria: New government must ensure Shell’s sale of its Niger Delta oil business does not worsen human rights abuses

Nigeria: New government must ensure Shell’s sale of its Niger Delta oil business does not worsen human rights abuses

Nigeria’s new government, which will be sworn in on 29 May, must ensure that Shell’s planned sale of its operations in the Niger Delta, does not lead to a further deterioration in human rights in a region blighted by decades of oil pollution.

 

Amnesty International has documented grievous and enduring human rights abuses resulting from oil contamination in the area, where Shell has operated since the 1950s. Amnesty International is concerned that the proposed sale will deny people already harmed access to adequate remedy, and potentially expose many more to future abuses.

A new report issued today, Tainted Sale?, recommends a series of safeguards and actions to help protect the rights of people potentially affected by Shell’s planned disposal of its onshore oil interests in the Niger Delta, reportedly for about US$3 billion.

Mark Dummett, Amnesty International’s Head of Business and Human Rights, said: “For decades spills have damaged the health and livelihoods of many of the Niger Delta’s inhabitants. Shell should not be allowed to wash its hands of the problems and leave. Shell has earned billions of dollars from this business and it must make sure that its withdrawal does not have negative human rights and environmental consequences.

Shell should not be allowed to wash its hands of the problems and leave.

Mark Dummett, Amnesty International’s Head of Business and Human Rights

“By exercising appropriate oversight of Shell’s sale, Nigeria’s incoming administration has a unique opportunity to demonstrate its determination to uphold and protect the human rights of its citizens, including their rights to an adequate standard of living, clean water, and health. We are also calling for effective remedy for people whose rights have long been abused.

“We urge the new government, under President Bola Tinubu, to ensure Shell’s sale does not end or limit the company’s liabilities. As a condition of sale, it should require Shell to provide a full assessment of all existing pollution in the delta, ensure it has provided satisfactory remediation for any damage, and that local inhabitants’ concerns about the sale process are fully appraised and addressed.

“The government should consider requiring Shell to act as a guarantor to ensure any purchaser is capable of making good and remediating damage caused by any future spills and that any buyer is committed to transparency, environmental compliance, consultations with communities, and limiting greenhouse gas emissions.

For decades spills have damaged the health and livelihoods of many of the Niger Delta’s inhabitants

“Of course, rather than finding buyers and wringing the last drops of oil from a region so long blighted by the industry, the better option would be remedying the harms caused, and phasing out production.

“The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change forecasts that without accelerating the phasing out of fossil fuels worldwide, global temperatures will rise by more than an agreed limit of 1.5C versus pre-industrial levels. After decades of exploitation, retiring production in the Niger Delta would be a step in the right direction.”

A long record of environmental damage and abuses

For more than 20 years Amnesty International and partner organizations have conducted research in the Niger Delta. It has demonstrated that Shell’s operations have come at the cost of the human rights of people living there.

Hundreds of spills a year from poorly maintained pipelines and wells, along with inadequate clean-up practices, have led to widespread oil contamination, including of groundwater and drinking water sources, agricultural land and fisheries, and damaged the health and livelihoods of many inhabitants.

The impact of the pollution can be devastating. In 2019, an academic study, found that oil spills occurring within 10km of a mother’s place of residence in the Niger Delta doubled neonatal mortality rates and impaired the health of surviving children.

Mark Dummett said: “Shell must take its own steps to ensure effective remedy for people whose human rights have been impaired by this devastating pollution, and that its divestment plan does not worsen the plight of the Niger Delta’s inhabitants.”

“Shell must take its own steps to ensure effective remedy for people whose human rights have been impaired by this devastating pollution.

Mark Dummett, Amnesty International’s Head of Business and Human Rights

“International standards, under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, are clear that Shell has a responsibility to conduct a human rights due diligence process on its decision to transfer assets. This responsibility is independent of any steps Nigeria’s government will take.”

Shell disputes allegations that it has acted irresponsibly in the Niger Delta, and says it complies with regulations. It has previously pointed to improvements that it says it has made in recent years in response to preventing and cleaning oil spills, investments in infrastructure, oil anti-theft measures, and increased transparency in its reporting of spills.

Shell is not uniquely responsible for the devastating oil pollution that blights the Niger Delta. There are other actors, including the federal and state authorities. They too have an obligation to ensure that Shell’s divestment does not lead to further human rights harms.

Arla Foods inaugurates state-of-the-art Dairy Farm in Kaduna, Nigeria

Arla Foods inaugurates state-of-the-art Dairy Farm in Kaduna, Nigeria

Arla Foods (www.Arla.com), maker of Dano Milk, has inaugurated its state-of-the-art dairy farm in Kaduna as part of the company’s efforts to ensure sustainable milk production in Nigeria. The farm located in Damau village, Kubau Local Government Area, Kaduna State, was inaugurated on Thursday, May 25, 2023, by the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

 

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Governor El-Rufai described the newly commissioned dairy farm as a significant milestone and game-changer for the dairy sector in Nigeria. He commended the management of Arla Foods for having faith and confidence in Nigeria and the Kaduna State Government.

Governor El-Rufai explained that the Arla Dairy Farm is another testament to the commitment of the Kaduna State Government to collaborating with private organisations and providing the enabling environment for businesses to set up and thrive in the state. He urged the incoming Governor of the State, Senator Sani Uba, to continue to support Arla and other companies with investments in the state for economic prosperity.

The Arla Farm – a state-of the-art Danish designed dairy farm – is the first of its kind in Nigeria and with it, Arla is creating the future of dairy in Nigeria. Designed to ensure optimum animal welfare and productivity, the Farm will be a showcase for sustainable milk production in Nigeria. It covers 400 Ha of land, with the capacity to house 400 milking cows and 1000 animals in total. Currently, the farm is home to 216 Danish Holstein cows, which arrived in May 2023 and are settling well into their new environment.

In his welcome address, the Executive Vice President of Arla Foods International, Simon Stevens, described the completion of the farm as a massive achievement for Arla Foods in its journey in Nigeria and globally, noting that this success exemplifies the significance of solid partnership and the vast potential available in Nigeria. He disclosed that the project was conceived in line with the quest to achieve a number of United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, including 2, 8, 12 and 17.

“This milestone symbolises what can be achieved with strong partnerships. We can see how the contribution of the Kaduna State Government, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, NGOs, the farming community, and many more have helped to deliver a big project. I’m happy that many of my colleagues are celebrating this joyous occasion in Lagos and at the global headquarters in Denmark. And when you look around at these facilities, I hope you are filled with pride as I am. Besides, this achievement symbolises the massive potential we see in Nigeria and the exciting journey this country is on. We have been part of this journey for quite some time, and we are extremely committed to continuing to play a part and contribute to the development of the dairy industry,” Stevens said.

He added that the farm, delivered at an investment cost of over 10 million euros, would serve as a place of milk production and an epicentre of dairy farming knowledge.

In his remarks, Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Sune Krogstrup, noted that the project demonstrates Arla Foods’ commitment to boosting the local dairy segment of the agricultural value chain that would positively impact the economy of Kaduna State and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP.

The Arla Farm – a state-of the-art Danish designed dairy farm – is the first of its kind in Nigeria and with it, Arla is creating the future of dairy in Nigeria

Also speaking, the Head of Arla Foods West Africa, Mrs Anna Månsson, noted that the commissioning of the project is a culmination of a series of events that began with the signing of a lease agreement with the Kaduna State Government in 2021, resulting in the securing of farmland and followed by construction work. Månsson also noted that the state-of-the-art dairy farm is the first of its kind in Nigeria, poised to define the future of dairy in Nigeria.

Månsson noted that over 40 people would be directly employed at the farm, as this would serve as a means of livelihood to Nigerians, especially those within the Damau community of Kaduna state. She explained that the farm is expected to produce 1.6 million kg of milk in 2024, with a target of 4 million kg of milk annual production.

In his goodwill message, the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, noted that he is proud to be associated with such a massive investment as this would bring about economic transformation to the people of Kaduna State and beyond.

“I am happy to have witnessed many strategic investments in my domain over the last few years. This kind of investment – Arla Farm, can only be found in other climes, but I am glad I am witnessing such in my reign. On this basis, I would like to say a big thank you to Arla Foods, and Kaduna State Government’s management and staff for this investment,” Bamalli said.

In her remarks, the Managing Director of Kaduna Markets Management and Development Company, Tamar Nandul, stated that the agency is proud to be associated with Arla Foods and the value addition to Kaduna state investment.

Nandul acknowledged that the farm is unarguably the most advanced single farm in Nigeria and noted that this project would go a long way to improve profitability for herders, revolutionise the state’s dairy value chain and bring about permanent solutions to the herder-farmer crisis.

Also speaking, Vice President of Finance for the International Zone, Arla Foods, Steen Futtrup stated that the official opening of the farm is a clear example of the company’s commitment to Nigeria, saying that the company is optimistic that the farm would make a significant impact on the local dairy industry.

Speaking on the features of the farm, The Managing Director, Arla Nigeria, Peder Pedersen, stated that the project, which covers 400 hectares of land with the capacity to house 400 milking cows and 1,000 animals, is designed to ensure optimum animal welfare and productivity.

Pedersen noted that the farm is home to 216 Danish Holstein cows, which arrived a few days ago and are settling well into their new environment. According to him, the Holstein breed, known to have a higher yield per cow than local breeds, is expected to produce 5 million kg of milk per year at the farm’s full capacity.

He stated that the farm has state-of-the-art technology that offers comfort for animals and helps a great deal in producing high-yielding milking cows.