The first UNWTO Communication, Media and Tourism Training in Africa Workshop organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) was in the majestic Victoria Falls, from 13 to 15 November 2023 bringing together tourism professionals, journalists, media and communication specialists drawn from 20 countries in the Africa region.
The three-day event focused on the opportunities for placing tourism in the mainstream conversation as well as the ongoing challenges facing communities, destinations and Africa as a region.
African tourism has been increasingly attracting media attention in recent years, though persistent perceptual barriers and stereotypes still impact on the image of the continent and prevent the tourism sector of the region from fully unlocking its potential.
Effective communication campaigns and innovative marketing strategies can shift the narrative around Africa and build a new storytelling which showcases its unique beauties and tourism attractions with the ultimate goal of promoting the continent as a top destination worldwide.
High-level international experts from across the media spectrum and top content creators guided the conversations of the intensive training programme and delivered to the delegates meaningful tools to strengthen their communication and media literacy skills with a view to better promoting and branding their destinations, namely by harnessing the use of digital and social media platform.
The participants had the opportunity to combine the theoretical approach of the discussions with group work activities involving case studies and field trips focused on highlighting the importance of culture, heritage, wildlife conservation and communities for the sustainable development of tourism.
The training session culminated in the ceremony of delivery of the certificates to the attendees.
Kelechi Deca
Kelechi Deca has over two decades of media experience, he has traveled to over 77 countries reporting on multilateral development institutions, international business, trade, travels, culture, and diplomacy. He is also a petrol head with in-depth knowledge of automobiles and the auto industry
Agility, a global leader in supply chain services, infrastructure and innovation, announced a partnership with Education for Employment (EFE) that will offer training in use of artificial intelligence to 3,500 young people in Egypt.
The training is intended to familiarize young men and women from underserved populations in Egypt with artificial intelligence concepts, tools and ethical considerations. It is designed to give them a competitive edge in the job market by teaching them to harness the power of transformative AI technology.
Underemployment or lack of entrepreneurial opportunities inhibit economic and social development. EFE’s skills development programs provide young people with opportunities to gain employment or start their own businesses. These lead to greater prosperity, stability and social and economic development.
Frank Clary, Agility VP of Sustainability, said the company is supporting EFE’s free employment and job skills training so that attendees can better understand how to use AI for job searches and tasks they may need to perform in the course and scope of employment or business management.
Frank Clary, Agility VP of Sustainability
“AI literacy is quickly becoming a priority area for recruiters. EFE and Agility are committed to making training available to young people who would otherwise not have access to it. Our shared goal is to create a future-ready workforce for Egypt and the broader Middle East because employment and entrepreneurial skills enable development, prosperity and stability,” Clary said.
Andrew Baird, EFE-Global CEO, said: “EFE targets young people from underserved populations who are unemployed and having difficulty getting jobs. This training plays an important role in bridging the gaps in formal education and development of social capital.”
EFE training participants undergo a selection process and are accepted into programs based on motivation and socio-economic background. Priority is given to those most in need. Of the 3,500 individuals taking part in the Agility-sponsored AI course in Egypt, at least half are young women. EFE’s AI curriculum includes basic concepts of AI, its applicability at work, ethical considerations, responsible use of online information, and use of AI tools in job searches.
In Egypt, Agility has also partnered with UNHCR to fund education for refugee children. Agility has been working with UNHCR since 2016. Its partnership with UNHCR in Egypt has paid for tuition, transportation, uniforms, books, stationery and devices such as computers for roughly 1,800 school-age children.
Egypt currently hosts about 473,000 registered refugees and asylum-seekers from 62 nationalities, most from Syria, Sudan, South Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Yemen, Somalia and Iraq.
Kelechi Deca
Kelechi Deca has over two decades of media experience, he has traveled to over 77 countries reporting on multilateral development institutions, international business, trade, travels, culture, and diplomacy. He is also a petrol head with in-depth knowledge of automobiles and the auto industry
Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, its first Safari hotel in Africa and 11th hotel in South Africa. Tucked between two renowned nature reserves, Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon, the hotel is located 2km outside of Hoedspruit in the heart of the grasslands in the Limpopo province and just 20 minutes from Eastgate Airport.
Boasting majestic views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit is surrounded by endless destination-immersing activities. Guests can take part in bucket-list safari adventures to spot local wildlife such as lions, rhinoceros, and elephants, go trekking on horseback, or take in the sprawling landscape from a hot air balloon.
Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa and SEAP, Radisson Hotel Group
Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit offers a range of room types from standard rooms with garden and mountain views to Premium Suites featuring their own private pools and relaxing outdoor seating areas to take in the natural landscape. With a contemporary Scandinavian design, the hotels 138 rooms and suites provide a calming setting with natural materials, wooden details and rich, earthy colors that pay homage to its African surroundings.
At the thatched roof restaurant, Mirage, guests can enjoy South African and Lebanese-inspired cuisine on the restaurant’s wrap-around deck, with convenient access to a sunbathing area and pool in the summer, as well as an outdoor fireplace on cooler evenings. Pegasus restaurant offers fresh and wholesome Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican, and American-inspired dishes as well as gourmet ice cream and frozen cocktails, served alongside the adults-only swimming pool. At the hotel’s third restaurant, Boma, guests can indulge in some of Africa’s most popular delicacies such as the local sausage, Boerewors; Bobotie; and selection of game meat, while listening to the soothing crackling of the fire and stargazing in the clear night’s sky.
“We are thrilled to open the doors of our first safari-inspired hotel in South Africa. The opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit marks our 11th hotel opening in South Africa and completes our own Golden Triangle Safari offering with exquisite properties in Cape Town and the recently opened Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya in Livingstone,” said Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa and SEAP, Radisson Hotel Group.
“My team and I are thrilled to introduce the world to the perfect combination of hospitality with Radisson’s renowned Yes I Can! Service philosophy and our unmatched safari-inspired setting. Our extensive offering will ensure guests have an unforgettable experience whether they are enjoying a family holiday, a serene couples escape, or a meeting and event in a unique backdrop,” said Charles McCarthy, General Manager of Radisson Hotel Safari Hoedspruit.
Featuring a planter roof and inspiring views of the surrounding grasslands, Radisson Hotel Safari Hoedspruit will offer a tranquil and rejuvenating escape at its Amani Spa. Guests can indulge in a variety of pampering treatments in the spa’s five treatment rooms including a private couple’s suite. The spa also features a health bar, hair and nail salon and a soothing steam room. A 24-hour fitness center is also accessible to guests looking to stay active during their stay and offers the latest modern cardio and strength training equipment.
The hotel’s versatile meetings and events spaces consist of five different meeting venues, including comfortable boardrooms, meeting rooms, and a main banquet hall that can accommodate up to 200 guests.
Kelechi Deca
Kelechi Deca has over two decades of media experience, he has traveled to over 77 countries reporting on multilateral development institutions, international business, trade, travels, culture, and diplomacy. He is also a petrol head with in-depth knowledge of automobiles and the auto industry
In the evolving corporate landscape, inclusivity and diversity have become key pillars via which businesses and organizations can advance in the global marketplace. The upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) scheduled for February 27 in Dubai, will elaborate on the growth opportunities associated with fostering inclusion in the workplace, and how companies can translate these values into tangible results.
By harnessing a wide range of cultures and backgrounds, organizations can tap into a wealth of ideas, experiences and insights able to propel them to unprecedented levels of success. Many leading and Fortune 500 companies have reached new heights, specifically by leveraging a diverse talent pool and prioritizing inclusivity in their recruitment and selection processes.
American multinational Johnson & Johnson was able to transform into a global pharmaceutical powerhouse by investing in its vision of diversity and inclusion. The company earned the title of Best Company for Diversity by Diversity magazine in 2018 and was placed among the top 15% of companies by Comparably’s diversity score in 2023. By 2025, Johnson & Johnson aims to achieve 35% racial diversity in management positions.
Professional services and consulting company Accenture has been included in the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index for five consecutive years, also owing to its dedication to diversity. The company has demonstrated a resolute commitment to achieving gender parity within all levels of the organization, targeting a 50:50 ratio by 2025.
A clearly defined target is one of the first steps towards achieving widespread diversity and inclusion and enabling firms to reap the benefits of these values. Global business consulting firm Ernst & Young, for example, was one of the first four accounting firms to embrace diversity by appointing a top-level, full-time executive to oversee diversity recruitment. Mastercard, ranking fifth in Diversity’s top ten list for four consecutive years, also boasts a diverse workforce, with one in four of its senior global executives being a person of color and 39% of its global workforce comprising women.
Another strategy for fostering diversity in the workplace is implementing cultural competence training, which equips employees with the tools to understand and appreciate diverse cultures, break down stereotypes and foster a more inclusive work environment. Under the theme, Black Excellence: Unleashing the Unexplored Potential for Global Unity, GBIS 2024 features high-level discussions, presentations and workshops on guiding organizations and individuals on their journey toward building a more inclusive culture.
Kelechi Deca
Kelechi Deca has over two decades of media experience, he has traveled to over 77 countries reporting on multilateral development institutions, international business, trade, travels, culture, and diplomacy. He is also a petrol head with in-depth knowledge of automobiles and the auto industry
Joliba Capital, an African private equity firm, has achieved a significant milestone with the first close of its inaugural fund, Joliba Capital Fund I, securing commitments exceeding EUR 33 million from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and Swedfund as part of a successful Rolling First Close. The fund, which has reached a total of EUR 89 million (USD 96.5 Million), aims to target investment opportunities across Francophone countries in Western and Central Africa.
This strategic move reflects the strong confidence and trust investors have placed in Joliba Capital’s vision and strategy. The fund will primarily focus on developing a diversified portfolio comprised of small and mid-cap regional champions seeking growth capital and operating expertise across various consumer-driven sectors, including agribusiness, manufacturing, FMCG, education, healthcare, financial services, and logistics.
In a market that remains largely undeveloped from a private equity perspective, Joliba Capital intends to play a crucial role in supporting SME financing and strengthening environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and impact standards across the region. The firm is committed to increasing awareness of the benefits of private equity investments in the region.
Joliba Capital Fund I is proud to be 2X Challenge qualified, showcasing its dedication to maximizing impact while delivering superior returns for its investors. LBO France, a multi-specialist and multi-country investment platform and majority owner of Joliba Capital, expresses its commitment to supporting local communities and entrepreneurs to unlock the full potential of the continent.
Robert Daussun, Chairman of LBO France, and Stéphanie Casciola, CEO of LBO France, state, “We are happy to welcome DFC and Swedfund in Joliba Capital’s inaugural fund. Their commitment is a strong endorsement of the high value that African companies can create with the help of professional investors while addressing very concrete development challenges.”
The founders of Joliba Capital, Hamada Touré and Yann Pambou, express their gratitude, stating, “We are pleased to count on the trust and support of DFC and Swedfund on our mission to boost the Francophone Africa private sector and create sustainable jobs. We sincerely thank our partner LBO France and our initial anchor investors Proparco, FMO, and IFC for their confidence and support.”
Mateo Goldman, Acting Vice President of DFC’s Office of Equity and Investment Funds, emphasizes DFC’s pride in supporting Joliba Capital’s expansion, stating, “DFC’s support will provide vital access to capital in these regions to support small businesses facing barriers to financing.”
Sofia Gedeon, Investment Director Sustainable Enterprises at Swedfund, highlights the opportunity to strengthen the private sector and contribute to socio-economic development, stating, “This gives Swedfund the opportunity to strengthen the private sector and to contribute to socio-economic development via increased decent job opportunities and enhanced gender equality.”
Joliba Capital, in collaboration with DFC and Swedfund, is poised to make a significant impact on small and medium-sized businesses in Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal, Cameroon, and other Francophone West and Central African countries. The investment will not only support these businesses but also contribute to improved access to goods and services for the underserved in the region.
A pioneer in private equity in France, LBO France is today a leading multi-specialist and multi-country investment platform. Active in Private Equity, Real Estate, Venture, and Listed Investment, the Company has been expanding its activities in Europe and on the African continent. Wholly owned by its managers, LBO France is one of the founding members of the International Climate Initiative and one of the first signatories of the France Invest charter for parity.
Joliba Capital is a private equity firm, founded by two seasoned African investment professionals, Hamada Touré & Yann Pambou, in partnership with LBO France, to target investment opportunities across Francophone countries in WAEMU and CEMAC regions to develop small and mid-cap regional champions seeking growth capital and operating expertise.
The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is the U.S. Government’s development finance institution, partnering with the private sector to finance solutions to the most critical challenges facing the developing world. DFC investments adhere to high standards and respect the environment, human rights, and worker rights.
Charles Rapulu Udoh is a Lagos-based lawyer, who has several years of experience working in Africa’s burgeoning tech startup industry. He has closed multi-million dollar deals bordering on venture capital, private equity, intellectual property (trademark, patent or design, etc.), mergers and acquisitions, in countries such as in the Delaware, New York, UK, Singapore, British Virgin Islands, South Africa, Nigeria etc. He’s also a corporate governance and cross-border data privacy and tax expert. As an award-winning writer and researcher, he is passionate about telling the African startup story, and is one of the continent’s pioneers in this regard.
Founders Factory Africa (FFA) has announced a significant boost in its investment in Athena, injecting an additional $150,000 into the innovative healthcare financing platform. This latest infusion brings FFA’s total investment in Athena to an impressive $250,000.
Over the past year, Founders Factory Africa has collaborated closely with Athena’s founder, Jabulani Nyembe, to foster the growth of the company from a conceptual stage to a fully operational business with a market presence and a growing customer base.
Athena, established in 2022 and headquartered in Johannesburg, is revolutionizing healthcare financing by allowing patients to pay for medical procedures in interest-free installments. The platform ensures that healthcare practitioners receive upfront payments, mitigating the risk of bad debts and facilitating a more stable financial environment for medical professionals.
One of Athena’s key features is its commitment to providing more affordable options for individuals to access the private healthcare system in South Africa. At a time when innovative solutions are crucial for addressing healthcare challenges in the country, Athena’s approach aligns with the pressing needs of the population.
“If you’re either a Patient or Doctor, check-it out here,” encouraged Founders Factory Africa in their announcement, emphasizing the platform’s potential benefits for both healthcare consumers and providers.
Athena’s unique model allows patients to receive and accept their repayment terms, making the financial aspect of healthcare more manageable. By paying the first installment, patients can initiate their coverage, proceed with their medical procedure, and Athena takes the responsibility of settling the full amount owed to the healthcare practitioner. Repayment to Athena is then spread over 3 or 6 months, offering flexibility and easing the financial burden on patients.
In a statement, Founders Factory Africa expressed their excitement about the progress made with Athena and their commitment to supporting innovative solutions that address critical challenges in the healthcare sector. The investment not only reflects confidence in Athena’s business model but also signals Founders Factory Africa’s dedication to fostering impactful ventures in the African startup ecosystem.
As Athena continues to pave the way for accessible and affordable healthcare financing, the collaboration with Founders Factory Africa serves as a testament to the potential of such partnerships in driving positive change in the healthcare landscape.
Charles Rapulu Udoh is a Lagos-based lawyer, who has several years of experience working in Africa’s burgeoning tech startup industry. He has closed multi-million dollar deals bordering on venture capital, private equity, intellectual property (trademark, patent or design, etc.), mergers and acquisitions, in countries such as in the Delaware, New York, UK, Singapore, British Virgin Islands, South Africa, Nigeria etc. He’s also a corporate governance and cross-border data privacy and tax expert. As an award-winning writer and researcher, he is passionate about telling the African startup story, and is one of the continent’s pioneers in this regard.
London-based Bboxx, the data-driven super platform dedicated to transforming lives across Africa, has announced a strategic move of its Headquarters from London to Kigali. The decision was revealed today at the UK-Rwanda Business Forum in Kigali, underlining the company’s commitment to Africa as an “Africa-first” entity.
The move signals a significant step in Bboxx’s mission to connect consumers and deploy innovative products across the continent. Bboxx plans to invest USD$100 million in Rwanda, training nearly 1000 Rwandans in the next five years. This announcement aligns with the company’s ambitious goals for the new year, aiming to impact 36 million people by 2028, following a USD$100 million partnership with Kuwaiti investment company EnerTech announced in December 2023.
Expanding Impact in Africa
Bboxx, founded in 2010, initially focused on addressing energy poverty in Africa. Over the past 13 years, it has expanded into 11 African markets, providing electricity to over 10% of Rwanda’s households. The company has diversified its range of products and services, from solar energy to pay-as-you-go clean cooking solutions, water pumps, smartphones, and electric vehicles.
Strategic Move to Kigali
Simultaneously, Rwanda’s transformation over the past two decades, coupled with business-friendly policies, makes it an opportune location for Bboxx to base its operations. The decision to move the headquarters to Kigali places Bboxx at the core of Africa’s rapidly evolving energy and technology sectors, enhancing access to key markets and reinforcing its commitment to long-term, sustainable growth.
Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, welcomed the move, stating, “Bboxx’s decision aligns with our efforts for Rwanda as a magnet for smart, sustainable investments.” Rwanda offers a conducive business environment, a growing pool of tech and engineering talent, and easy access to the rest of Africa through its national carrier, Rwandair.
Partnerships and Commitments
Bboxx’s move is supported by strong partnerships with African governments, including the Government of Rwanda. This highlights the shared commitment to electrify the continent and empower remote communities economically. The company’s vision is a testament to its dedication to a brighter, more sustainable African future.
The UK, a key development partner for Rwanda, sees Bboxx’s move as a reflection of the strong relationship between the two nations. The British High Commissioner, His Excellency Omar Daair OBE, noted, “Bboxx’s move to Kigali exemplifies the UK’s ongoing support for African innovation.”
Bboxx’s Transformative Mission
Mansoor Hamayun, CEO and Co-Founder of Bboxx, expressed the significance of the move, stating, “In our journey to revolutionize access to essential products and services across Africa, it’s only fitting that we position ourselves at the heart of the continent.” The relocation promises to bring Bboxx closer to the communities it serves, ensuring reliable and innovative solutions to the challenges they face.
With the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, serving as the Commonwealth Chair-in-Office, the move to Kigali positions Bboxx strategically, reinforcing its commitment to Africa and its dedication to being a data-driven super platform for transformative change.
Bboxx is a data-driven super platform championing economic empowerment in Africa. Through its fully integrated operating system, Bboxx Pulse®, the company connects customers with clean energy, clean cooking, smartphones, e-mobility, and selected financial products. With a pay-as-you-go model, Bboxx aims to provide convenient and affordable solutions, positively impacting over 3.6 million people in 10 operating markets. The move to Kigali signifies a pivotal chapter for Bboxx as it strives to unlock potential across the continent.
Charles Rapulu Udoh is a Lagos-based lawyer, who has several years of experience working in Africa’s burgeoning tech startup industry. He has closed multi-million dollar deals bordering on venture capital, private equity, intellectual property (trademark, patent or design, etc.), mergers and acquisitions, in countries such as in the Delaware, New York, UK, Singapore, British Virgin Islands, South Africa, Nigeria etc. He’s also a corporate governance and cross-border data privacy and tax expert. As an award-winning writer and researcher, he is passionate about telling the African startup story, and is one of the continent’s pioneers in this regard.
Exness, the world’s largest retail market-maker, has unveiled a significant rebranding initiative, reflecting and reinforcing its position as the market leader. Through a revamped visual identity, Exness turns the spotlight on the very values that helped it reach the top.
Featuring a new logo, defined by the distinctive exo emblem, the rebranding speaks to a sleeker, more modern design. Inspired by Exness’ recognizable initials, ‘e’ and ‘x,’ the exo embodies a fusion of head and heart, the mathematical and the human. These are the pillars which speak to Exness’ brand story and define the way it conducts business.
Carrying the legacy of the old logo, the exo also serves as a visual anchor, connecting the broker’s past achievements with its future vision, in this way honouring its legacy to forge its future. The brand’s font and colour palette have also undergone a makeover, featuring a more modern font and a brighter, bolder yellow.
Alfonso Cardalda, Exness Chief Marketing Officer
Alfonso Cardalda, Exness Chief Marketing Officer, commented, “At Exness, we believe that ‘good enough’ is not enough. This rebranding goes beyond aesthetics. Our new brand offers a nod to where we’ve come from and a promise that our values remain the same while we take bold new steps into the future. As companies evolve, so must their brand. It’s time for our brand to evolve and reflect who we are in the market. It’s time to take our identity to the next level, to show the world why we’re different from the rest and how we got this far.”
Launched on the cusp of Exness’ spectacular 15-year celebrations, the rebranding aligns with the broker’s remarkable achievements to date, including a monthly trading volume of up to $4.8 trillion, a headcount of over 2000 employees, and a total of more than 700,000 active clients and 64,000 partners. These milestones highlight Exness’ enduring commitment to setting industry standards and reinforcing its status as the market leader.
“We’ve raised the bar in the trading industry, now we’re upping our game as a brand. As we usher this new era in, we will continue to reimagine the markets the way they should be, we will continue breaking records and we will continue to be wholeheartedly committed to our people — clients, partners and employees.” Cardalda added.
The updated branding will be rolled out across all Exness platforms in the coming weeks. The company assures a seamless transition, maintaining its high standard of service and support for all clients and partners.
Kelechi Deca
Kelechi Deca has over two decades of media experience, he has traveled to over 77 countries reporting on multilateral development institutions, international business, trade, travels, culture, and diplomacy. He is also a petrol head with in-depth knowledge of automobiles and the auto industry
Today, 30 January 2024, biodiversity experts from more than 20 African countries will meet in Harare to discuss the state of biodiversity for food and agriculture in the region and consider action to strengthen the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. National Focal Points will share experiences at national and regional levels with the aim of strengthening efforts to halt the loss of this key resource.
“Biodiversity is crucial to our African way of life. We must take action to preserve it and halt the ongoing loss of diversity in our agrifood systems. Our landraces, such as sorghum and millets, are declining in number. Urgent steps need to be taken to conserve and sustainably manage them. Let’s work together to preserve our planet’s precious resources and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” said Patrice Talla, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa, and FAO Representative in Zimbabwe.
David Mukomana, President of the Apimondia Regional Commission for Africa
One of the main objectives of the workshop, co-organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and Apimondia, the International Federation of Beekeepers’ Associations, will be to discuss ways and means to strengthen the implementation of the Framework for Action on Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture in Africa. The framework, adopted in 2021 by FAO, is intended to put the brakes on the loss of biodiversity for food and agriculture. Country representatives attending the event will share lessons learned and discuss the challenges involved in converting the words of the framework into action on the ground.
The FAO Framework for Action on Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture is the response of FAO Members to the first ever report on The State of the World’s Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture launched by FAO in 2019. The framework addresses the whole of biodiversity for food and agriculture, including plant, animal, forest and aquatic genetic resources, as well as the range of ecosystem services they provide. It promotes a coordinated approach to the management of biodiversity across the different sectors. “Biodiversity is critical for the transformation of agrifood systems so that they become more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all, leaving no one behind,” said Dan Leskien, Officer in Charge of the FAO Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.
The regional workshop provides an opportunity for country representatives to exchange information and facilitate the sharing of best biodiversity-friendly practices and strategies to effectively implement the main priorities of the framework within the region.
Biodiversity loss has a variety of causes and poses a severe threat to the future of agriculture and world food security. Many species and ecosystems are in decline. Bees, for example, are key pollinators and vital to the production of many crops. In many African countries, their survival is being jeopardized.
“Bees are a treasure that needs to be cherished. It is critical to allow bees and other pollinators to continue to carry out their vital pollination work in our environment,” said David Mukomana, President of the Apimondia Regional Commission for Africa.
Kelechi Deca
Kelechi Deca has over two decades of media experience, he has traveled to over 77 countries reporting on multilateral development institutions, international business, trade, travels, culture, and diplomacy. He is also a petrol head with in-depth knowledge of automobiles and the auto industry
The Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Dr. Zhou Pingjian has conveyed the Chinese government’s and people’s full support for the Global South. In an article published this week, the ambassador states that the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit and the Third South Summit, held recently in Uganda, were a testament to the enduring strength of multilateralism and cooperation among developing nations.
These summits convened a diverse array of high-level dignitaries, including heads of state and government, reaffirming the NAM’s vital role in shaping the future of the Global South.
Among the leaders present was Liu Guozhong, President Xi Jinping’s Special Representative who is also a Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council of China. His presence underscored China’s steadfast commitment to standing alongside and supporting developing countries through both prosperous and challenging times.
Dr. Zhou Pingjian
In his address at the summit, Vice Premier Liu Guozhong highlighted the importance that China places on its collaboration with other developing nations. Guided by the overarching vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, China is resolute in implementing the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisation Initiative, and promoting high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, while upholding the common values that unite all of humanity.
China advocates an equal and orderly multipolar world and seeks to promote universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation, ultimately leading the world towards a future characterised by peace, security, prosperity and progress.
As the world’s largest developing country, a dedicated partner of NAM, and a member of the Global South, China remains committed to the collective advancement of all developing nations. Vice Premier Liu reiterated China’s steadfast support for fellow developing countries, especially medium-sized and smaller nations, and its unwavering dedication to the common development of the Global South.
China’s commitment to the Global South is palpable through its extensive support for infrastructure development in African countries, including Kenya. This support is underpinned by the principles of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, aligning seamlessly with the core values of NAM and the broader South-South cooperation framework.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Group of 77 (G77), an important coalition of developing nations. Over the past six decades, Global South countries within the G77 have charted a path marked by equality, mutual trust, mutual benefit, solidarity and mutual assistance. Independence continues to define the political landscape of these nations, while the tradition of seeking strength through solidarity remains a source of pride.
It was clear from the summit that development and revitalization stand as their historical mission, and fairness and justice are the shared aspirations that unite them. In today’s rapidly evolving world, characterised by unprecedented transformations, Global South countries are confronted with a complex international environment.
It is imperative that they continue their efforts to explore the path to modernisation, promote higher-level South-South cooperation, actively engage in the reform of the global governance system, and deepen the global partnership for development that is united, equal, balanced and beneficial to all.
As China’s Ambassador to Kenya, I am honoured to witness China’s unwavering commitment to supporting the development of Kenya, Africa, and the entire Global South. The 19th NAM Summit sends a powerful message of solidarity and cooperation among nations striving for common prosperity. China stands firmly with them on this shared journey towards a brighter future.
In the spirit of unity and collaboration, let us continue working together to build a brighter future for all, characterised by equality, fairness and justice where the common values of humanity are upheld and the dreams of shared development are realised.
Kelechi Deca
Kelechi Deca has over two decades of media experience, he has traveled to over 77 countries reporting on multilateral development institutions, international business, trade, travels, culture, and diplomacy. He is also a petrol head with in-depth knowledge of automobiles and the auto industry
