Blog - Afrikan Heroes

President El-Sisi Meets the Chairman of the Greek Copelouzos Group

January 22, 2024

Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Chairman of the Greek Copelouzos Group, Dimitrios Copelouzos, in the presence of Prime Minister, Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Dr. Mohamed Shaker, and a number of senior company executives.

Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, said the President was briefed on progress in the “GREGY Project” for power interconnection with Europe, particularly with the successful incorporation of the project into the initial list of projects of common interest in the European Union. This paves the way for embarking on the next phase of the project’s implementation, namely the preparation of the final technical and environmental studies as well as the study to determine the path of marine connection cables.

The President was offered an overview of the group’s plans for the production of renewable energy in Egypt. President El-Sisi was given a presentation on efforts exerted to boost joint work between Egypt and the group to implement a 9.5 gigawatt wind and solar power production project, which will strongly support the Egyptian economy and make a major contribution to efforts toward transition to clean energy in Egypt and Europe.

President El-Sisi gave directives to proceed and expedite joint cooperation efforts between the two sides so as to complete the proposed projects as soon as possible. He also stressed the need to streamline procedures and eliminate any impediments that might be encountered during the course of the project’s implementation. The President confirmed Egypt’s keenness on playing a leading role in the international transition to clean energy, which will benefit Egypt at both the economic and environmental levels. President El-Sisi lauded the persistent cooperation between Egypt and Greece across all areas, which demonstrates the robust relations the two countries share.

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

Amnesty Demands Freedom for Free Human Rights Defender Daouda Diallo in Burkina Faso

More than fifty days since Dr Daouda Diallo, Secretary-General of the Collective Against Impunity and Community Stigmatization (CISC), was forcibly disappeared, Amnesty International today calls on the Burkina Faso authorities for his safe return to civilian life and to end the use of conscription as a tool to silence dissent.

Dr Diallo was abducted by security agents on 1 December 2023 as he left the passport office in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso’s capital, and taken to an unknown destination. A few days later, in an image shared on social media, he was shown in the back of an army truck wearing military uniform. The government has not officially acknowledged his detention nor his whereabouts, but his family and lawyers believe he is now on the frontline.

“The military authorities must immediately release Dr Daouda Diallo, and the enforced disappearance of human rights defenders and activists under the guise of conscription must end. Human rights defenders must not be subjected to harassment, intimidation, and violence by the state,” said Samira Daoud, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa.

“Amnesty International calls on the military authorities to respect, protect, promote, and fulfil the human rights of everyone in the country. The authorities must be transparent about the entire conscription process. Amnesty International condemns the discriminatory use of the April 2023 decree on national mobilization to conscript independent public voices in Burkina Faso.

“Amnesty International also urges the military authorities in to allow individuals under conscription to regularly communicate with their families and relatives.”

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

Egypt’s Mira Cosmetics Raises Funding, Aims for 100,000 Clients and Global Expansion

Cairo-based D2C beauty and wellness startup, Mira Cosmetics, is set to make waves in the industry as it secures a $200,000 investment from Wingoo Investment and Technology. The funding comes on the heels of Mira’s successful production of its inaugural local beauty product, scheduled for launch later this year.

Mira, founded by the visionary entrepreneur Amira Dawood, has rapidly gained recognition for its diverse range of high-quality cosmetic and skincare products. The startup has been making strides in reshaping the beauty industry landscape by addressing the demand for affordable, locally-produced alternatives.

Local Roots, Global Ambitions

Amira Dawood, CEO and Founder of Mira Cosmetics and Skincare, identified a gap in the market for accessible and affordable beauty and wellness products in Egypt. Fueled by the increasing demand for imported cosmetics, often accompanied by hefty price tags in foreign currency, Dawood set out to revolutionize the industry.

In a recent press release, Dawood emphasized the importance of offering high-quality Egyptian products at competitive prices. Her vision is not only to cater to local needs but also to combat the challenges posed by the US dollar shortage affecting e-commerce platforms.

Strategic Investment for Growth

Despite securing a substantial $200,000 investment from Wingoo Investment and Technology, Dawood’s primary focus remains on building a robust Egyptian brand and fostering a loyal customer base. She aims to achieve this by the end of the year before considering further investments to support business expansion.

Anticipating a surge in demand, particularly among the younger demographic, Dawood projects Mira’s customer base to reach 100,000 clients by the close of 2024. The company’s commitment to delivering exceptional quality and customer service sets it apart in a highly competitive market.

Local Innovation, Global Competition

Acknowledging the fierce competition with international products, Dawood highlighted the unique selling points of Mira’s offerings — exceptional quality, affordability, and the pride of being made in Egypt. The company’s current focus is on tailoring products to the domestic market, with plans to establish retail outlets in addition to their online platform.

Amira Dawood underlined the company’s dedication to understanding the needs of their target audience and delivering products that meet those needs with top-notch materials and competitive pricing. The emphasis is not only on attracting online customers but also on creating a physical presence for potential buyers to experience their products firsthand.

Confidence in Egyptian Products

Ahmed Al-Shehabi, CEO of Wingoo for Investments and Technology, expressed confidence in the potential of Egyptian products to compete globally. This confidence prompted the investment in Mira Cosmetics and Skincare. Al-Shehabi highlighted Mira’s strategic plans for expansion and growth, envisioning the company’s presence beyond Egypt, targeting the UAE and Saudi Arabia in the next three years.

As Mira continues to make waves in the beauty and wellness sector, the funding injection from Wingoo Investment and Technology marks a significant step towards achieving its ambitious goals and reshaping the narrative of Egyptian beauty products on the global stage.

Mira Cosmetics

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.

Zambia in a Race to Halt Fast-Spreading Cholera Outbreak

As the cholera outbreak in Zambia continues to expand rapidly, efforts are being stepped up to halt the spread of disease and save lives. A vaccination campaign is currently underway targeting 1.5 million people, including children, health workers and people at high risk of infection in the worst affected areas.

In partnership with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF and others, World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting the government to effectively roll out the oral cholera vaccination campaign as well as bolster ongoing outbreak control measures. More than 1.4 million cholera vaccine doses have been delivered to the country to help stem the outbreak, with another 200 000 additional doses for a total of around 1.7 million doses approved by the WHO International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision.

The government declared a new outbreak in October 2023, which began in Lusaka province. As of 18 January 2024, 10 887 cases and 432 deaths were reported across nine of the country’s 10 provinces. Lusaka, Central and Eastern provinces are the worst affected. Lusaka district is the epicentre of the outbreak. The outbreak is spreading fast, with the country recording an average of 461 new cases every 24 hours over the past seven days.

The rapid spread of the disease and the increasing number of reported cases suggest that the outbreak may be one of the worst in the country’s recent history. Densely populated areas of Lusaka with limited or no access to clean water, sanitation services and poor hygiene practices are facing a higher incidence of cholera.

“The current cholera outbreak requires concerted and collaborative efforts to protect the health and well-being of citizens. Our priority is to work closely with the government, local health authorities and cooperating partners to provide immediate support and expertise,” says Dr Nathan Bakyaita, WHO Representative in Zambia. “The epidemiological situation underscores the urgency for a comprehensive response, addressing the root causes and implementing targeted interventions.”

WHO is working with the government to strengthen the key outbreak response areas. The Organization has deployed 23 experts from its Regional Office for Africa to support emergency coordination, case management, surveillance, infection prevention and control, bolster water, sanitation and hygiene services as well as increase public awareness on the risks of the disease.

WHO has also provided more than 14 tons of cholera kits and additional medical supplies to the government. The supplies are enough to treat about 3000 mild to severe cases of cholera, including moderate cases at oral rehydration points in communities. The Organization is also procuring additional supplies and equipment, including cholera beds which are set to be delivered in the coming days.

The government has activated high-level outbreak response coordinated by the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit. Other efforts to control the outbreak include the provision of water tanks to supply communities with clean drinking water, setting up of oral rehydration points in strategic community places such as markets, churches and bus stops for access to early treatment, and public health campaigns to promote hygiene practices. Cholera treatment centres have been set up to provide medical care for severe cases, with the largest treatment centre at the National Heroes Stadium in central Lusaka

Cholera is an acute, extremely virulent infection that can spread rapidly and dehydration resulting in high morbidity and mortality. However, the disease is easily treatable. Most people can be treated successfully through prompt administration of oral rehydration solution or intravenous fluids.

Effective control relies on implementing comprehensive measures including enhanced epidemiological and laboratory surveillance to detect, confirm and quickly respond to outbreaks, improving access to treatment, vaccines, safe water, and basic sanitation as well as effecting behavioural change and better hygiene practices among communities.

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

Watu Credit Secures US$15Mn Funding for Financial Inclusion Endeavor in Uganda

January 21, 2024

In a significant development, Watu Credit in Uganda has successfully raised an initial 5-year term facility of US$15 million from Gateway Partners through their Africa Credit Opportunities Fund. This funding, the first tranche of a larger initiative to raise US$50 million, is aimed at supporting Watu Credit’s mission to enhance financial inclusion in the region.

Headquartered in Nairobi, Watu Credit is an Asset FinTech company operating in seven African countries. Established in 2019, the company specializes in providing loans for mobility and connectivity assets, such as smartphones, two & three-wheelers, electric motorbikes, and cars. Watu Credit has been at the forefront of revolutionizing financial inclusion for the unbanked and financially underprivileged.

Watu Credit’s unique business model focuses on offering affordable financing options to riders, providing them with an opportunity to achieve financial security and ownership of essential assets like motorcycles. These vehicles often serve as the main source of income for many riders.

Gateway Partners, an emerging markets manager, has played a crucial role in this funding initiative. Their investment through the Africa Credit Opportunities Fund aligns with the strategic goal of using capital to empower “base-of-the-pyramid” clients while incorporating basic credit risk mitigation measures.

The subordinated debt investment made by the fund will contribute to Watu Credit’s balance sheet growth and facilitate the “crowding-in” of additional senior debt financing. Watu Credit’s business strategy, rooted in financial inclusion, resonated with Gateway Partners’ mission to positively impact emerging markets.

Watu Credit’s business model is designed to serve the unbanked and financially underprivileged population, providing them with essential financial services and opportunities. Specializing in financing two-wheelers, the company leverages technology extensively in its operations, utilizing automated procedures, GPS monitoring devices for motorbikes, and exclusive use of digital payments through mobile money wallets.

The infusion of funds from Gateway Partners will not only strengthen Watu Credit’s position but also contribute significantly to advancing financial inclusion in Uganda. As the company continues to grow and diversify its mobility portfolio, it aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of the underserved and unbanked population, offering them a pathway to financial security and empowerment.

This funding milestone is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Watu Credit and Gateway Partners in driving positive change and fostering financial inclusion in the African 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.

Sports Writers Honors Rugby Africa President

January 20, 2024

Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa

Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) awards the President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body of rugby in Africa, Herbert Mensah, for his exemplary leadership skills and quality contributions to the development of rugby in Africa. Mr. Mensah was given a meritorious award at the 48th edition of the Nguvu SWAG Awards night at the Accra International Conference Centre on Friday, January 12, 2024.

He was given a plaque and a citation read on for him stated that; “Herbert Mensah’s transformative leadership and relentless dedication to promoting and developing rugby in Ghana and Africa has been commendable.”

“His visionary approach, strategic initiatives, and commitment to fostering grassroots development have propelled the Ghana Rugby Football Union and Rugby Africa to new heights, fostering growth, and inspiring a new generation of rugby enthusiasts and athletes.

SWAG congratulates you on your elevation as President of Rugby Africa and bestows on you a Meritorious Award.”

Mr.Mensah’s award was received on his behalf by Union Board Member, President of Northern Rugby Association, Get into Rugby Manager, Educator, Rafiatu Inusah.

“As President of Rugby Africa, I am truly humbled and honored to receive this prestigious meritorious award by the Ghana Sports Writers Association. This recognition reflects not only my personal commitment to the development of rugby in Africa but the collective efforts of those remarkable sportsmen and women who are dedicated to instilling positive change and embracing the global standards of the sport,” stated Mensah. “Thank you for this acknowledgement, which only fuels my mission in advancing the growth of the game in Africa. Furthermore, I continue to emphasize the business potential of rugby in Africa. Together as a united force, we will elevate the standards of rugby in Africa and unlock the vast economic opportunities of the sports industry.”

The SWAG Awards is an occasion and event to celebrate sports excellence, it is the longest running award scheme in Ghana that rewards top performing Sports Men and Women consistently since 1975. The organization also recognizes the efforts of persons involved in Sports development including Administrators, Managers, Coaches, Referees, Corporate bodies, and other stakeholders in sports.

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

Libyan Islamic Bank Forges New Partnership with Backbase to Enhance Digital Customer Experience

January 19, 2024

In an effort to streamline its customer service operations and enhance its customers’ digital banking experience, Libyan Islamic Bank (LIB) has partnered with Backbase (www.Backbase.com), the renowned expert in engagement banking platform solutions worldwide. Established in 2017 with a primary focus on retail and corporate segments, LIB has been a steady presence in the financial landscape of Libya, abiding by the principles and legislations of Islamic Sharia.

As the banking industry continues to evolve, LIB recognizes the need to modernize and adapt to the changing preferences and expectations of its clientele. The initiative to revamp its existing mobile app for retail customers and introduce new digital apps for business users comes at a critical time. This move is expected to significantly reduce friction in customer onboarding and servicing processes, thereby promoting a smoother, more intuitive banking experience. Backbase stands out as a market leader with top-notch innovative digital platform capabilities, making it a preferred choice for this partnership.

Mr. Matthijs Ejipe, Regional Vice President of Backbase

Central to this transformation is the introduction of Backbase’s Engagement Banking Platform, a single omni-channel banking platform that aligns well with LIB’s aspirations to adopt a customer-centric approach, orchestrate user journeys across all touchpoints, and innovate at the speed of digital. Recognized for its innovative digital capabilities, Backbase offers a tailored solution to meet the challenges encountered in modern banking operations. This collaboration marks a significant shift in LIB’s strategy, as it leverages Backbase’s expertise to facilitate quicker transitions to customer-centric platforms.

One of the main objectives of this collaboration is to increase digital adoption rates among LIB customers, enabling self-service options that are more aligned with the current market trends and customer demands. By enhancing the functionalities of its existing platforms, LIB aims to not only attract a larger customer base but also foster long-term relationships through improved service offerings.

A significant part of this endeavor involves reducing the bank’s reliance on branch-based operations, a move that is expected to not only streamline processes but also promote greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It necessitates the removal of legacy systems and manual paper-based processes which have long been recognized as impediments to swift and smooth service delivery.

Mr. Adel Kashad, acting GM of LIB, remarked, “In these times of rapid technological advancements, it is vital for financial institutions to adapt and innovate continually. This partnership signifies our commitment to providing our customers with more streamlined and efficient banking solutions. By collaborating with Backbase, we aim to enhance our digital service offerings, bringing a new level of convenience and functionality to our clients, thus reiterating our position as a bank that is truly in sync with the needs of contemporary consumers.”

Mr. Matthijs Ejipe, Regional Vice President of Backbase, commented on the collaboration, stating, “This partnership with LIB marks a significant step in the direction of creating more nuanced and l experiences in the banking sector. Our Engagement Banking Platform is designed to facilitate seamless customer journeys, and we believe this initiative will set a new standard in the industry, fostering growth and innovation in the region.”

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

Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) 2024: Enabling Black-Owned Businesses to Go Global

Black-owned businesses have emerged as integral players in the global economy, able to foster economic empowerment and contribute to enhanced diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In the United States, the number of Black-owned businesses increased by nearly 14% pre-pandemic and accounted for a larger share of increases in revenues, employees and payrolls than other racial groups. Marked by rising Black entrepreneurship rates and growing demand for minority-owned businesses, there is a unique opportunity for Black-owned brands to play an even more prominent role in the global marketplace.

The upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) – taking place next month in Dubai – will feature panel discussions, workshops and networking sessions on strategies for Black-owned businesses and brands to succeed across markets and customer segments.

Identifying Strategies for Success

Boasting some of the world’s most recognized and fastest-growing brands, the Black business community has positioned itself at the forefront of innovation. From entertainment and fashion to technology and manufacturing, these companies have bridged gaps in their respective industries through pioneering market research, innovative marketing techniques, dynamic partnerships and a strong digital presence, among other key strategies.

Businesses and brands like World Wide Technology, Jay Z’s Roc Nation, BET Networks, Shea Moisture, FUBU, Dangote Group and the African Energy Chamber have successfully thrived in international markets due to their high degree of cultural competence, awareness and adaptability. BET Networks, for instance – since its formation in 1980 by Robert L. Johnson, the first African American billionaire – has evolved into a prominent global television network and earned recognition due to the authenticity of its programming and resonance with its target audience.

As the global economy continues to evolve – shaped by growing demand for innovative and next-generation services – a comprehensive knowledge of customer segmentation and niche and mass markets are crucial to the success of Black-owned businesses across geographies. In this context, companies like Shea Moisture stand out. With a history spanning over three decades, the beauty and personal care brand has garnered global acclaim for its diverse product range that targets a customer segment (women of color) previously ignored by mainstream beauty brands.

Beyond generating revenues, Black-owned businesses play a pivotal role in empowering local communities and alleviating poverty. A notable example is the Dangote Group, established by Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote and serving as one of the largest conglomerates in Africa, spanning industries like construction, consumer goods, logistics, textiles and agriculture. Currently employing over 18,000 individuals across various African markets, the Dangote Group not only stimulates job creation, but also contributes to broad and diversified economic growth in the countries in which it operates.

Black-owned firms also serve as key advocates for enhanced diversity and inclusivity within their respective business environments. An exemplary case is the African Energy Chamber – founded by NJ Ayuk, a Cameroonian attorney, author and businessman – which spearheads initiatives like African Energy Week, championing local and female participation in the energy sector and bringing diverse perspectives and innovative ideas to the forefront of Africa’s energy poverty crisis.

As Black-owned businesses continue to expand, they also contribute to a more competitive and innovative business ecosystem. The success of these companies provides a model for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners, fostering entrepreneurship and cultivating diverse talent across industries. Moreover, the success of Black-owned businesses can help address economic disparities and systemic inequalities by providing new avenues for economic participation and wealth accumulation within Black communities.

Celebrating the success of Black-owned businesses on a global scale, GBIS 2024 will host high-level discussions sharing insights and strategies for companies to thrive in international markets, drawing on existing examples of success and innovation.

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

Burundian Farmers Celebrate Great Yields

Burundian farmers told visiting government officials and African Development representatives that they are delighted with the year’s great yields thanks to the hybrid, climate-resilient seeds and multi -strand support that has been provided by the Bank.

Several cooperative members expressed their satisfaction. Marie-Thérèse Nahabaganwa, chair of the Tsindinzara (Combating Hunger in Kirundi) cooperative that works 200 hectares in the Muhara and Kagera–Ruhohera valleys, reported that her cooperative received from six tonnes of hybrid maize seeds, agricultural inputs and technical support. She expects a yield of 800 tonnes of maize, or 4 tonnes per hectare. “We owe all these exceptional yields to the efforts of our local government combined with support from projects financed by the African Development Bank,” said Ms Nahabaganwa.

Other cooperative members also benefited. Willy Ndoricimpa, a member of the cooperative, was particularly appreciative of the awareness sessions that had been held on land release. “We didn’t initially think that we’d be able to make a profit by pooling our portions of land. But now we feel more than satisfied because, well, my share of the harvest will be 500 kilogrammes, unlike before when I barely harvested 50 kilos of maize.” Mr Ndoricimpa went on to say that he would use part of his harvest to feed his family and would sell another part to increase his heads of livestock.

“We have come to congratulate you on agreeing to pool your land,” said Emmanuel Niyungeko, Permanent Secretary of the Burundian Ministry of Environment, Agriculture and Livestock. The harvest you have just made is totally in line with the government’s vision of increasing agricultural production so that every mouth has food, and every pocket has money.” Mr Niyungeko paid tribute to the cooperative’s members, who had followed the advice of the agricultural advisers and pooled their land.

The ministerial secretary, project managers and the African Development Bank visited the provinces of Kayanza and Kirundo from 2-5 January 2024 to see the results of projects funded by the Bank and observed the maize harvest in projects that had provided seeds.

To strengthen Burundi’s food security and nutrition, the African Development Bank has set up the Burundian Agriculture and Livestock Value Chains Sustainable Development Support Project and the Emergency Agricultural Production Project in Burundi.

In August 2023, under the second of these projects, 571 tonnes of selected hybrid maize seeds were provided to 195,000 households belonging to cooperatives in 14 provinces of the country including Kayanza and Kirundo. In addition to the technical support that has greatly revolutionized the agricultural sector in this northern region, the project has also developed marshlands for farmers.

In July 2022, the Bank granted Burundi $5.4 million to fund the Emergency Agricultural Production Project launched as part of the African Emergency Food Production Facility (https://apo-opa.co/47OiWrC) set up by the Bank to avert a food crisis in Africa due to Russia’s war in Ukraine. With its provision of $1.5 billion, the Facility provided agricultural seeds — wheat, rice, maize, soybeans — to 20 million African farmers to produce an additional 38 million tonnes of food in two years.

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

Renewed Efforts Intensified to Boost Date Farming in Eritrea

The Eritrean Ministry of Agriculture has announced intensified efforts to expand date farming in Eritrea. Originating in the late 1990s with a few dedicated farmers in the Sheib sub-zone, date farming initially saw limited advancement.

However, a significant shift occurred in 2017 when the Ministry launched a major initiative to promote this agricultural sector in the Northern and Southern Red Sea regions. This initiative included providing specialized training to farmers and introducing high-quality date seedlings.

Mr. Musie Fekadu, Head of Bio-Technology at the National Agricultural Research Institute and coordinator of the date farming project, reported substantial progress. Approximately 23,000 date trees have been successfully planted and are currently thriving. Mr. Musie highlighted that each tree yields between 75 to 200 kilograms of dates.

Furthermore, Mr. Musie mentioned that at the 7th International Date Summit held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in 2022, Eritrea proudly became the 41st member of the Date Producing and Processing Countries, marking a significant milestone in its agricultural journey.

Looking ahead, Mr. Musie revealed ambitious plans to increase the number of date trees in the targeted regions to 300,000 by 2030. This expansion aims to bolster Eritrea’s position in the global date market and contribute significantly to the nation’s agricultural output.

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