News - Afrikan Heroes

Bridging the Divide: Confronting Socioeconomic Inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa

August 10, 2023

By Chika Idoko

As leaders who support mainstreaming equality, diversity, and inclusion, we aim to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background, enjoys the same rights, opportunities, and dignity. However, the grim reality is that socioeconomic inequality creates an uneven playing field from the very beginning of life. For instance, children born into impoverished communities often face limited access to quality education, healthcare, and nutrition, hindering their ability to reach their full potential. We must take action to reduce societal challenges posed by socioeconomic inequality.

Why act now? Unforeseen circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic have further exacerbated inequality, having caused job losses, reduced income, and limited the ability of households to manage risks. UNECA estimated the pandemic pushed over 55 million Africans into extreme poverty in 2020 and reversed more than two decades of progress in poverty reduction on the continent.

***Chika Idoko, Head of Equality Diversity and Inclusion, British Council, Sub-Saharan Africa***

Socioeconomic inequality highlights the disparities in economic and social resources that are linked to social class. The urgency to act has become more pressing as the disparities between the privileged few and the marginalised masses widen. In the workplace, it fosters an uneven distribution of power and influence, limiting the representation of diverse voices in leadership positions. Organisations in Sub-Saharan Africa can play a pivotal role in reshaping the destiny of this vibrant region.

For the British Council, socioeconomic inequality is central to addressing inequality. It is linked to socioeconomic background which is highlighted within our diversity strategy as a cross-cutting theme and includes age, race/ethnicity, religion/belief amongst others. We recognise that these areas intersect, and we are sensitive to other characteristics and the social and cultural norms that can mean people experience inequality or barriers to participation differently.

The UN has explicitly stated that socioeconomic inequality undermines our ability to access our human rights and that socioeconomic status can be seen as grounds for discrimination. For context, in 2021 the World Bank report indicated that over 40% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population still lives below the international poverty line of $1.90 per day.

According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), women’s participation in the labour force in Sub-Saharan Africa stands at just 47%, well below the global average of 55%. This disparity is compounded by gender wage gaps, leaving women with limited access to leadership roles and inhibiting progress toward gender equality. Similarly, persons with disabilities face significant challenges in accessing employment opportunities.

The British Council, while on the journey to mainstream equality, diversity and inclusion, remains conscious of the role socioeconomic inequality plays in systemic discrimination and in holding people back due to circumstances beyond their control. Efforts to address social disadvantage are acknowledged as we strive for greater inclusion across our staff groups and to widen opportunities for access and engagement across our programmes and services. Some of our efforts are reflected in the design and delivery of our programmes. For example, our work in Non-Formal Education strengthens systems and civil society to create an enabling environment for strong and inclusive communities. We focus on young people and work in fragile contexts through partner-funded programmes in Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Sudan.

Our Technical Vocational Educational Training (TVET)/Skills programmes focus on developing high quality TVET systems so that they are relevant for employment and entrepreneurship. Demand-driven and reform-led, our work aims to propel better life prospects for young people and stronger socioeconomic development with outcomes such as decent jobs and a better-skilled workforce in Sub-Saharan Africa. Delivery locations include Ghana, Malawi, Tanzania, Mauritius, Mozambique, South Africa, and Sudan. Another programme, Skills for Inclusive Digital Participation (SIDP), creates opportunities for digitally excluded individuals to develop the skills they need to participate fully in the digital economy and in wider society. In Sub-Saharan Africa, SIDP provides inclusive digital literacy training at basic and intermediate level to women, youth, and people with disability (PWD) in Kenya and Nigeria as a pilot project.

In 2020, the British Council revised its Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy to include socioeconomic background (SEB) as a distinct theme. For us, the target of engaging with socioeconomic background more deliberately is to raise awareness and prompt considerations for concrete commitments to reduce inequality across the region. The rationale behind this approach is as follows:

To measure and improve socioeconomic diversity within the workforce and, in so doing, improve social mobility

To raise awareness of socioeconomic background and how it intersects with inequality with key partners, influencers, decision makers to prompt action

To prompt action for employers to improve socioeconomic diversity using data insights to inform culture and leadership, hiring and career progression, and advocacy

To map the British Council’s work to how it supports the advancement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 (No Poverty), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities, within and among countries)

Readalso : Agriculture in Africa: How Mastercard Foundation Scholars are Helping to Grow the Continent’s Productivity

The overall objective is to drive sustained commitment and catalyse transformative action to mainstream equality, diversity and inclusion for measurable progress in this area. Socioeconomic background is intricately linked to wider societal issues such as shadeism/ colourism in Africa. Some studies have been explored to establish the extent to which skin tone variation is important across some essential domains, including upward mobility. For context, colourism and shadeism have historically been widely believed to be linked to slavery, which upheld a system of social class or distinction based on skin colour. Today, shades of skin colour maintain social significance reaching into the lives of ordinary people and playing a part in everyday decisions about employment, education, housing, beauty, marriage, and partnership.

The British Council will facilitate an initial panel discussion in November 2023 to identify regionally relevant and viable interventions to help raise awareness of socioeconomic background issues and interventions to dismantle the barriers to full participation in the workplace and formal economy. Calling on leaders, decision-makers and key stakeholders in international organisations, the private sector, government, academia, and communities across Sub-Saharan Africa to join the efforts to accelerate action and ensure a holistic approach to tackling socioeconomic inequality. The forum will generate case studies of good practice to inform, encourage, and eventually act as a catalyst for action in the various operating contexts.

Let us unite in this endeavour, driven by a shared commitment to foster workplace cultures that go beyond the transactional in equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts and dismantle the barriers of socioeconomic inequality. The future is Africa; take action today.

Chika Idoko, Head of Equality Diversity and Inclusion, British Council, Sub-Saharan 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

Apple Announces iPhone 15 Debut in September

August 9, 2023

Apple fans are eagerly awaiting the launch of the new iPhone 15, which is expected to be unveiled in September 2023. The iPhone 15 is rumored to offer several improvements and features over the previous generation.

According to media reports, the iPhone 15 launch events could take place on September 13, 2023, which is a Monday. This is based on the historical pattern of Apple’s previous events, which usually occur on the second Tuesday or Wednesday of September.

However, the report also notes that there is a possibility of a delay. Another report suggests that the iPhone 15 could be delayed until October 2023 due to the ongoing global chip shortage and supply chain issues.

iPhone 15 to launch in four models: 15, Plus, Pro, and Pro Max, featuring colors like black, white, red, blue, green, and purple. It will also likely feature a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels and a refresh rate of 60Hz. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max will have a similar display size but with a higher resolution of 1179 x 2556 pixels and 1290 x 2796 pixels respectively.

The iPhone 15 will reportedly have a 48MP primary camera with a larger sensor and improved low-light performance. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max will have a similar primary camera but with additional features such as a periscope-style telephoto lens, a LiDAR scanner, and an ultra-wide angle.

The processor of the iPhone 15 will be another key upgrade. The iPhone 15 will be powered by the A16 Bionic chip, which will be based on a 5nm process and offer faster performance and better efficiency. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max will have an even more powerful A17 Bionic chip, which will be based on a 3nm process and offer unprecedented speed and capabilities.

The battery life of the iPhone 15 will also be improved thanks to a new stacked battery technology that will allow for more capacity in a smaller space. The iPhone 15 will have a battery capacity of around 3,100 mAh, while the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max will have around 3,600 mAh and 4,400 mAh respectively.

The software of the iPhone 15 will be iOS 16, which will introduce new features and enhancements such as improved privacy controls, redesigned notifications, enhanced Siri, and more.

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

Guerilla Africa Partners Foxtrot to Unveil User-Generated Event

Cam Naidoo, the Director of Guerilla Africa

Guerilla Africa, the creator of MNet Disrupt Showcase has announced partnership with Foxtrot to unveil a user generated event. This came as a result of the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, and has brought forth a significant revolution in the manner in which audiences engage with MNet’s content. The combined proficiency and innovative prowess of these agencies have effectively metamorphosed the entertainment landscape within the country.

A pivotal highlight of this occasion was the exclusive QR 2.0 code software developed by Foxtrot, software that played a central role in enriching the customer experience. Attendees could effortlessly scan vividly branded QR codes, gaining access to an extensive array of interactive features. This enabled them to dynamically modify event themes, lighting, music, and visuals throughout the venue, all in real-time synchronization.

According to Cam Naidoo, the Director of Guerilla Africa and a co-founder of Foxtrot Agency, conveyed his enthusiasm for this groundbreaking endeavor, remarking, “This achievement establishes an entirely new standard for live experiences, encapsulating the authentic essence of surprise, trend-consciousness, and forward-looking ethos synonymous with M-Net and its content.”

The thematic elements experienced a continuous evolution, guided by the audience’s preferences. Attendees were presented with a selection ranging from Reyka to Shaka, and beyond, thus making their interaction with the content a guiding force throughout the showcase. These AI-driven solutions, accessible through digital and assisted touchpoints, not only elevated the event experience but also streamlined operational efficiencies.

“In fusing marketing intelligence with business acumen, we persistently pioneer advanced consumer engagement solutions for both local and global brands and enterprises,” articulated Naidoo.

Guerilla Africa and the Foxtrot agency, collectively known as the ‘Imagine More’ team, have consistently showcased their expertise in designing and cultivating world-class entertainment. In so doing, they have solidified their standing as trailblazers in harmonizing creativity with technology, leading the evolution of the advertising industry.

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

Activists Say Egypt’s Electricity Cutbacks Threaten Rights

August 8, 2023

Mostafa Madbouly, Egypt’s Prime Minister,

The Egyptian government is limiting electricity use with daily power cutbacks nationwide, putting people’s economic and social rights at risk, Human Rights Watch said today.

The cuts appear to last longer in rural areas, which have higher poverty rates, and have left many people without power amid soaring temperatures, hindering their ability to perform their jobs, including for some medical workers, and limiting access to water. The government should recognize everyone’s right to clean, accessible, and affordable electricity.

“Egypt’s government has long demanded implicitly that Egyptians sacrifice their civil and political rights in return for economic prosperity,” said Adam Coogle, deputy Middle East and North Africa director at Human Rights Watch. “But electricity cuts dramatically reduce people’s ability to realize their rights including food, water, and health care.”

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said that the cuts, which began on July 22, 2023, following a week of sudden blackouts, are to reduce pressure on the country’s electricity infrastructure due to increased demand. However, government officials have also said that the electricity crisis was caused by an inadequate gas supply to run power plants. The government has been planning at least since August 2022 to ration electricity to enable the government to export natural gas as a way of shoring up foreign currency reserves.

On July 27, the government announced that the rationing plan would last at least until September, following the prime minister’s July 19 remarks that the cuts would end by July 25. To address the crisis, the government announced several measures including having some public sector employees work from home on Sundays, a workday in Egypt.

People posted videos on social media platforms complaining that the cuts are preventing them from performing their jobs, threatening their right to work. A parliament member stated during parliamentary questioning of the electricity and renewable energy minister that the power outages have prevented water from reaching higher floors in residential buildings at times in six cities in the Cairo area.

The government announced that hospitals are exempted from power cuts, but not private clinics. A doctor told BBC Arabic that he had to repeat a laparoscopy because the electricity was cut. Even the backup generator in the clinic did not work properly because of electrical current fluctuation, he said.

News outlets have reported that the cuts are lasting for longer periods in some areas. In greater Cairo, the cuts are lasting an entire hour four times a day, compared with five in Upper Egypt and the Delta region, New Arab reported. One parliament member said that residents in some areas of al-Omranay, Giza, were only receiving 2 hours of electricity over a 15-hour span, damaging electrical appliances.

An Electricity Ministry official was quoted in al-Shorouk, a local newspaper, saying that an outage may last for up to two hours in cities, but up to three hours in villages. The Council of Ministers spokesman, Ambassador Nader Saad, attributed the longer cuts in some villages to human error and technical issues. “Maybe the person responsible for cutting the electricity forgot to bring it back,” he said.

On July 31, the Council of Ministers issued schedules for cuts across the country, except for Marsa Matrouh, Red Sea, and South Sinai governorates. These three regions are exempt, the prime minister said, because their energy consumption is lower. The tourist and coastal areas will also be exempted, he said, because they generate public revenue.

Based on the schedules, cuts in all neighborhoods will amount to an hour a day, except in Alexandria Governorate, where the cuts can reach up to 140 minutes. The government did not provide justification for this discrepancy.

Though Prime Minister Madbouly said that the cuts were due to excessive demand, the Electricity Minister told local media that electricity consumption in the country did not exceed potential production capacity. He said the cuts were mainly driven by the inadequate supply of natural gas and fuel oil, to run power plants.

In 2019, Egypt achieved gas self-sufficiency and started to export liquefied natural gas, but the gas output reached its lowest level in three years in May, according to the Middle East Economic Survey. To fill the gap, the government announced it would import an additional US$250–300 million worth of fuel oil until the end of August.

On July 19, an Electricity Ministry official told al-Shorouk that the ministry plans to reduce local natural gas consumption by 25 percent to preserve quantities of natural gas for export and ensure foreign currency payments to Egypt amid the country’s deep debt crisis.

On July 27, Madbouly said that the government halts natural gas exports during summer months, but Saheeh Masr, a fact-checking platform, disclosed that Egypt has exported gas over the past four summers, with a total value of $2.68 billion according to data from the Central Bank of Egypt.

The likelihood that the cuts are linked to the export of natural gas is also consistent with an August 2022 government plan to ration energy consumption nationwide to save 15 percent of the natural gas used in running power stations to export and obtain foreign currency. The government planned to increase the supply of electricity generated from renewables to 20 percent by 2022, but renewables only accounted for 11 percent that year.

The internationally protected right to an adequate standard of living includes the right of everyone, without discrimination, to sufficient, reliable, safe, clean, accessible, and affordable electricity, Human Rights Watch said. Access to electricity is critical to ensuring other rights, including but not limited to health, housing, water, and education, and should be recognized as a distinct human right.

Countries have a duty to ensure that everyone in their territory or jurisdiction has access to electricity. This means ensuring adequate and sustainable electricity generation and supply, and international cooperation to ensure reliable, affordable, and available electricity for the end user.

Almost half of Egypt’s greenhouse gas emissions come from electricity and heat production, 90 percent of which is produced from fossil fuels, largely gas. Egyptian authorities should take immediate and urgent steps to ensure that all residents have a continuous, affordable, and clean supply of electricity that does not contribute to the climate crisis, with a focus on increasing generation capacity from hydropower, wind, and solar, Human Rights Watch said. The quicker the transition to renewable energy, the more money Egypt will save, the more jobs created, and the less Egypt will be contributing to the climate crisis.

“The government has long known its planned natural gas exports are at odds with Egyptians’ electricity needs, yet it prefers to rely on power cuts rather than invest in renewable energy to make up the difference,” Coogle said. “If the government is forced to cut electricity, it should at least ensure that the burdens are shared equally, without discrimination.”

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 Premier Fintech Fawry Secures License to Finance Businesses

Fawry, the pioneering force in Egypt’s e-payment landscape, has announced a significant advancement in its strategic vision as its subsidiary, Fawry Microfinance, attains preliminary approval from the the country’s Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA) to introduce Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) financing to its extensive portfolio. The green light for this new initiative comes as a pivotal stride in Fawry’s overarching growth strategy, which encompasses broadening its service spectrum and forging new avenues for revenue diversification.

Fawry’s trailblazing journey has continuously carved out landmarks in the digital financial sector, and this latest feat underscores its commitment to fortify its presence as a leading digital finance facilitator in Egypt. As the economy evolves and digital transformation permeates every facet of business, Fawry Microfinance’s forthcoming SME financing offering is poised to synergize with its sibling subsidiaries, constituting an integrated ecosystem of financial services that cater both to individual and enterprise needs.

Eng. Ashraf Sabry, Chief Executive Officer of Fawry, remarked, “The attainment of regulatory approval by Fawry Microfinance stands as a testament to the relentless dedication exhibited by the entire team. This milestone represents a new era for Fawry, one that has been diligently crafted over several months. Upon its official launch, this novel addition to our service repertoire will empower us to tap into untapped segments, underscoring Fawry’s pivotal role in advancing financial inclusivity across Egypt. We anticipate that this green signal, coupled with the forthcoming expansion of Fawry Microfinance’s suite of services, will not only bolster the company’s financial performance but will also foster a symbiotic environment that caters to both businesses and individuals.”

*Eng. Ashraf Sabry is the Chief Executive Officer of Fawry. Credits: Fawry*

In a remarkable achievement unveiled in 2022, Fawry Microfinance’s cumulative loan issuance eclipsed EGP 1 billion ($63.6 million) since its inception. Established in 2018 with a core objective to proffer accessible and affordable financial solutions to Egypt’s burgeoning small businesses and entrepreneurs, Fawry Microfinance has harnessed the prowess of a comprehensive digital infrastructure to dispense loans and streamline repayments. The laudable endeavors of Fawry Microfinance stand as a vital contribution towards the nation’s drive for financial inclusion and the digitization of financial services.

CEO Eng. Ashraf Sabry reiterated the paramount importance of financial inclusion, stating, “The value of affordable financial services is becoming increasingly evident with each passing day. By granting access to such services, small- and medium-sized businesses, which constitute the backbone of Egypt’s labor force, can expand, invest, and foster inclusive economic progress. Fawry Microfinance takes pride in its track record of creating tangible opportunities for entrepreneurs and families, enabling them to invest in their futures and aligning with the government’s endeavor to achieve sustainable growth by extending marginalized groups’ reach to financial services.”

Amidst the echoes of the COVID-19 pandemic’s influence on global economies, Fawry Microfinance’s portfolio burgeoned remarkably in 2021. The year concluded with an outstanding portfolio of EGP 437 million, exhibiting a commendable growth of 67 percent over the EGP 267 million recorded at the end of 2020. Impressively, the subsidiary achieved a collection rate of 98.5 percent by the end of 2021, reaffirming its operational efficiency and resilience.

With an impressive client base, nearly 40% of whom are under 30 years old, Fawry Microfinance substantiates Fawry’s unwavering dedication to sustainability and the overarching goal of fostering financial inclusivity. This commitment extends beyond urban centers, as Fawry Microfinance’s services span across 25 out of Egypt’s 27 governorates, encompassing a significant portion of rural and economically underserved communities.

The landscape is further illuminated by the revelation that a substantial portion of Fawry Microfinance’s clientele, nearly 60%, constitutes prior Fawry customers introduced to the Company’s merchant network through Fawry POS equipment. This network enabler allows the subsidiary to offer a range of services, spanning omnichannel acceptance to the establishment of e-commerce platforms, underpinning a holistic approach to financial service delivery.

Founded in 2008, Fawry has emerged as Egypt’s foremost e-payment platform, catering to both banked and unbanked populations. At its core, Fawry facilitates electronic bill payments, mobile top-ups, and a plethora of services, serving millions across Egypt. In tandem, Fawry’s peer-to-peer model empowers corporates and SMEs to embrace electronic payments through diverse channels, including websites, mobile devices, and POS systems. With an extensive network spanning 36 member banks, a dynamic mobile platform, and an expansive agent network exceeding 250,000, Fawry orchestrates approximately 3 million daily transactions, benefiting an estimated 35 million users each month.

Fawry license Fawry license Fawry license

Orange Telecom Engages Egypt‘s Fintech Firm Fawry To Expand Its Cash Wallet

Charles Rapulu Udoh

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

STARZPLAY Partners TPAY for Mobile Payments

August 7, 2023

STARZPLAY, one of the top three subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) services providers in the Middle East, has announced a strategic partnership with TPAY, the leading payments provider in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META). With this partnership, customers will be able to make their subscription payments using their mobile phone numbers, to access STARZPLAY’s premium sports and entertainment content.

With an initial focus on expanding its presence in the MENA region, TPAY will enable STARZPLAY to accept subscription payments from 9 million viewers via Direct Carrier Billing (DCB). The partnership will commence with Orange Tunisia, followed by Sudatel Sudan and Chinguitel Mauritania, with plans to expand across more countries in the region.

Işık Uman, TPAY Group CEO, commented: “Partnering with STARZPLAY strengthens our position as the region’s preferred payment processing partner of choice for merchants, especially those in the streaming vertical and beyond. We are proud to have built a platform that can eliminate all the complexity of cross-border settlement. We also provide faster payment cycles, compliance, and risk management, allowing our partners to remain focused on growing their business in the region.”

Raghida Abou-Fadel, Senior VP of Sales & Business Development at STARZPLAY, said: “We are excited to announce our partnership with TPAY which will enable us to instantly deliver our premium content to all entertainment and sports fans across the MENA region. By teaming up with TPAY, we can ensure a seamless and secure payment experience for our customers while continuing to expand our footprint in the region.”

The Middle East Media and Entertainment industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.4% during the forecast period, 2023-2028. The market size is predicted to grow from USD 39,05 billion in 2023 to USD 61,2 billion by 2028. The industry has been one of the first business sectors to steer digital disruption, and its transformation is far from over. STARZPLAY will continue to strengthen the industry with a focus on expanding its presence in the region by diversifying its offerings to include premium sports coverage (football, basketball, boxing, and more).

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

Cloudmania Launches in Mauritius

Vinay Hiralall, Managing Executive of Cloudmania

Cloudmania, the cloud services and solutions provider launched by Liquid C2 in 2021 to support Africa’s digital transformation journey, has opened shop in Mauritius to channel partner ecosystems. With partners in 22 countries across the continent, Cloudmania is committed to providing cloud and cyber security services to partners within an ecosystem defined by support, expertise, and enablement.

The company has opened its doors to numerous countries across the African continent, including South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Nigeria, Ghana, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Cameroon, Botswana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo serving the mission to bring about digital disruption using the power of the cloud. Cloudmania offers cutting-edge solutions to provide a full suite of partner-focused products and services. The organisation was awarded a Microsoft Partner of the Year in Ethiopia 2022 and Côte d’Ivoire in 2023.

Vinay Hiralall, Managing Executive of Cloudmania, said, “Our operations have grown exponentially, in the last year itself, we have grown from 100 partners to over 500. This highlights that our value proposition resonates with channel partners across the continent. We have a deep understanding of the channel ecosystem and work with partners to provide the technical enablement, operational efficiency, and solution portfolio to drive their businesses forward. Winning the Microsoft Partner of the Year award in Ethiopia and Côte d’Ivoire in 2022 and 2023, respectively, reinforces our commitment to delivering solutions that propel cloud adoption and partner growth and accelerate digital transformation for businesses in Africa”.

All resellers that partner with Cloudmania receive access to a suite of market-leading solutions tailored to suit their customers’ needs. Cloudmania aims to help channel partners better manage their business by creating a single-pane view via an always-on platform that assists with billing and subscription management services. In addition to providing partners with programmes that drive sales enablement, they also have access to our marketing initiatives and technical advisories. By alleviating the backend operations, partners can focus more on their core business of expanding their operations and increasing their customer base.

Cloudmania understands the critical role cloud and cyber security technologies play in today’s digital economy. “Being recognised by one of the largest global hyper-scalers like Microsoft as ‘Partner of the Year’ is testimony to Cloudmania’s unwavering commitment towards ushering change, development, and progress through technology, and we hope to win next year’s award for Mauritius,” concluded Hiralall.

Liquid C2 is a business of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a pan-African technology group, offering managed cloud and security services, product solutions, and related professional and advisory services in 22 African countries. It operates Africa’s widest Azure Stack deployment across four countries and deployed the only African Cyber Security Fusion Centres in South Africa and Kenya, with another four to be launched in 2023. Liquid C2 was selected as an Operator Connect launch partner by Microsoft in six countries. The organisation was a finalist in the Microsoft Partner of the Year 2021 in South Africa and Microsoft Partner of the Year in Ethiopia and Côte d’Ivoire in 2022 and 2023.

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

FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura to Speak at Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) 2023

With the relative success of African teams at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, the AWIEF is thrilled to announce Fatma Samoura, FIFA Secretary General, as a Keynote Speaker at the Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) 2023 Conference. Senegal-born Samoura is the first African and first woman to hold the role of Secretary General at FIFA in its 116-year history.

As head of FIFA’s administration, Ms Samoura has played a pivotal role in transforming the organisation, and has been instrumental in driving unprecedented growth in women’s football which gained new impetus under her leadership.

With 32 teams, the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ is the biggest in the competition’s history, providing a fitting send-off for the FIFA Secretary General when she steps down in December.

AWIEF2023 will take place at the Kigali Convention Center, Rwanda, on 9 and 10 November, in partnership with Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT and Innovation and Rwanda Convention Bureau.

The event features keynotes, interactive panel discussions, a multi-sector exhibition, workshops and masterclasses, the AWIEF Awards and Gala Dinner, and plenty of networking opportunities.

Ms. Samoura joins this year’s powerful and high-level speaker faculty, which includes H.E. Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation, Rwanda; Clare Akamanzi, CEO, Rwanda Development Board (RDB); Yvonne Manzi Makolo, CEO, RwandAir; Chairperson, International Air Transport Association (IATA) Board of Governors; Cosmas Zavazava, Director, Telecommunication Development Bureau, International Telecommunication Union (ITU); and Eleanor Nwadinobi, President, Medical Women’s International Association (MWIA) amongst other African and global thought leaders and industry experts across business, international development, and government.

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

OPEC President Speaks on Equatorial Guinea’s Offshore Potential

OPEC members recently met in Vienna for the 8^th OPEC International Seminar. What measures is OPEC currently taking to stabilize the market given recent price increases?

The global oil market has experienced a relatively volatile few years but OPEC remains committed to contributing towards market stability, both for producers and consumers alike. We have been closely monitoring the market and the associated global dynamics, and our recent seminar in Vienna featured in-depth discussions about production, and maintaining a balance between supply and demand. OPEC will continue to monitor the market while cooperating with our member and non-member countries to address any market imbalances.

Equatorial Guinea’s Gas Mega Hub (GMH) initiative continues to make progress with a Heads of Agreement signed with Marathon Oil Corporation for the second and third phases of the project. What does the timeline look like for the project? Can we expect any milestones to be achieved in 2024 and 2025?

Phase one of the GMH comprised the tie-back of the Alen Field to the Punta Europa Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal on Bioko Island. This phase delivered first gas in February 2021, and soon thereafter, the government, alongside its project partners, have been working towards getting phase two onstream. In March this year we signed an agreement with Marathon Oil and Noble Energy for the next two phases of the project and we expect phase two to come online as early as January 2024. This stage involves processing gas from the Alba Field while phase three will facilitate gas processing from Noble Energy’s Aseng oil and gas field. Marathon Oil is also currently evaluating two infill drilling opportunities to improve the Alba production performance.

So, we will be starting 2024 with a major milestone and are aiming to reach many more after that. We have recently also established a bilateral trade agreement with Cameroon on cross-border oil and gas development while other exploration projects continue to make progress. A similar agreement was signed with Nigeria in 2022. These endeavors open up new opportunities for the expansion of the GMH by maximizing feedstock for the terminal.

With production decreasing due to natural declines in legacy fields, what efforts are being taken by the Ministry to boost output?

In addition to drilling works being undertaken to improve and maintain production levels at existing fields, the Ministry is making great strides towards accelerating exploration across the country’s offshore acreage. Our recent agreement with Cameroon will see the two countries jointly develop oil and gas projects along our maritime borders, including the Yoyo and Yolanda fields, the Etinde gas field and the Camen and Diega fields.

The country’s enabling environment for investment and strong record of successful offshore finds have also seen new E&P players join the market. Earlier this year we also signed three production sharing contracts with Panoro Energy and Africa Oil Corporation. These contracts are expected to further open up the upstream market. Additionally, we have several global energy majors and independents progressing with exploration and are optimistic about these campaigns. The only way to address production declines is to explore, drilling more wells and unlocking the potential of offshore basins.

Equatorial Guinea has recently inked agreements with regional neighbors Nigeria and Cameroon to expand energy cooperation. How is the government strengthening local content within the natural gas industry and how will these agreements help bolster capacity building on a regional scale?

Local content has and will always be a top priority for Equatorial Guinea. In our oil and gas sector, local content is enforced through the National Content Regulation and Hydrocarbons Law as well as additional ministerial decrees, individual production sharing contracts and local labor laws. Through clear regulation and regular engagement with both local and international energy companies, we continue to strengthen our local content and drive capacity building and opportunity.

In addition to policy, the government carries out skills and technology transfer through initiatives and training. We have a number of training and education institutions open and constantly engage our partners about exchange programs and bilateral skills development. Our agreements with neighboring countries fall under these efforts to up-skill and re-skill the workforce. We also believe that regional cooperation will help advance opportunities for oil and gas entrepreneurs. Our partnerships with other West African countries aim to increase trade, commerce and collaboration between Equatorial Guinea and its regional counterparts. These efforts are introducing opportunities for domestic and regional market growth as well as bilateral knowledge sharing.

African Energy Week 2023 takes place under a mandate to make energy poverty history by 2030. How does Equatorial Guinea plan to leverage its resources to achieve this objective and what messages will you be driving during this year’s conference?

Equatorial Guinea, like many other African countries, believes that in order to make energy poverty history, we need to monetize and maximize all of our natural resources. Our efforts to increase investment and bolster development across the entire energy value chain has already been instrumental in alleviating energy poverty. Equatorial Guinea has a wealth of natural gas resources and we are making progress to leverage these resources for domestic power generation. The Bioko Turbogas thermal power plant provides reliable power to the population and as the GMH expands, so will opportunities for gas-to-power.

The country is also capitalizing on its renewable energy wealth, and invites investors and project developers to invest in the country’s green energy sector. We are also working with other countries in Africa to expand trade and regional connectivity.

This year, I am looking forward to participating in a number of panel discussions, investor summits and ministerial forums, and will drive the message that gas is good for Africa. Equatorial Guinea has made significant progress to monetize both domestic and regional gas but a lot more needs to be done to maximize resources and drive industrialization and economic growth. Gas, as a clean and readily available resource, is the best way for Africa to achieve energy security while facilitating a just energy transition.

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

Tunisia’s Kyufi Receives Funding from SEAF and ABCapital

SEAF, a prominent impact investment firm, has teamed up with Development Finance Corporation (DFC), The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and ABCapital to announce a major investment in Orient Tea, a rapidly growing and innovative Tunisian food company. This significant investment has been made possible through SEAF’s Tunisia Resilience Fund and SEAF Covid-19 Global Gender Lens Emergency Loan Finance, which was established by the DFC to address the challenges faced by SMEs supporting women during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Founded in 2013, Orient Tea is a trailblazing food company led by women, specializing in the production of natural instant tea products under the brand Kyufi. The company operates in the city of Ben Arous, located in northeastern Tunisia, an area that was particularly affected by the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The region experienced restrictive lockdowns and the closure of key distribution channels, prompting Orient Tea to adopt an agile and proactive approach by shifting its focus to retail and B2B networks. However, to further expand and thrive, the company required additional capital to enhance its digital presence, improve online brand awareness, and expand warehousing capacity to overcome supply chain disruptions.

The investment by SEAF in Orient Tea is based on a gender lens approach, with the aim of supporting the company’s growth and promoting an inclusive and sustainable business model within the agri-food sector. As a women-led company, Orient Tea employs 45% women in full-time positions and supports 80% of contracted farm workers as women, creating nearly 500 indirect and direct jobs. With this funding, Orient Tea will be able to boost its production capacity, explore new export markets, and strengthen its market position, while also providing vital training opportunities to smallholder farmers in its network.

Jan Cherim, SEAF Vice Chair for Europe & Africa, expressed enthusiasm for partnering with Orient Tea during this challenging period in the Tunisian market. SEAF’s dedicated team, led by Ingrid Chou, worked seamlessly with ABCapital and Orient Tea to successfully close this impactful deal, with expectations for more similar investment opportunities in the future.

ABCapital is delighted to contribute its support to SEAF, facilitating the execution of the Orient Tea transaction and the implementation of the Tunisian Resilience Fund, a pioneering financing mechanism designed to catalyze additional capital for Tunisian SMEs. This fund is not only supporting SMEs in their post-COVID resilience efforts but also unlocking their growth potential. Hela Jelassi and Anis Borchani, Managing Partners at ABCapital, commend SEAF’s innovative Gender Lens Investing approach, which plays a significant role in promoting inclusive and impact-driven businesses within Tunisia.

USAID/Tunisia is committed to enhancing access to capital for high-potential Tunisian businesses. Scott Dobberstein, USAID Mission Director, expresses pride in supporting investment facilities that cater to the unique needs of SMEs, fostering sustainable development outcomes. In addition to direct funding, this partnership provides Orient Tea with access to valuable tools such as impact monitoring systems, gender analyses, and access to new markets, thereby boosting their investment readiness and contributing to inclusive economic growth.

Jim Polan, Vice President of DFC’s Office of Development Credit, highlights the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on financial markets and its disproportionate impact on women-owned businesses in developing countries. DFC is proud to collaborate with SEAF in supporting innovative transactions like Orient Tea, which offer economic relief and positive development impact to businesses striving to overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Orient Tea tUNISIA Orient Tea tUNISIA

Ghana’s Venture Capital Trust Fund Leads $10.5M Investment in Mirepa’s Maiden Fund

Charles Rapulu Udoh

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