News - Afrikan Heroes

President Talon Tells Investors to capitalize on Abundant Cotton Production in Benin

July 17, 2023

President Patrice Talon of Benin has urged investors to explore the abundant cotton in his country to develop the textile industry. He made this known during a meeting with the Sri Lanka High Commissioner in Kenya, Veluppillai Kananathan, who is also concurrently accredited to the Republic of Benin, presented his letter of credence to the President of Benin, Patrice Talon, in Cotonou on June 13, 2023.

The credentials ceremony was held at the Presidential Palace. Kananathan was the first Ambassador of Sri Lanka to present Credentials in Benin, which marked a significant milestone in furthering the diplomatic ties between Sri Lanka and the Republic of Benin.

President Patrice Telon — president Patrice Telon

During the private meeting that followed the presentation of credentials, Ambassador Kananathan conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from President of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe to President Talon. President Patrice Talon warmly welcomed Ambassador Kananathan and reciprocated by conveying his friendly greetings to his Sri Lankan counterpart.

Recognizing their shared background in business, President Talon emphasized the potential for economic diplomacy and deepening collaboration in trade and investment. He highlighted the favorable investment terms and conditions in Benin, particularly in the energy and apparel industries. President Talon invited Sri Lankan investors to seize the rewarding opportunities available in Benin, specifically mentioning the potential for investing in yarn and textile mills given Benin’s status as one of the largest cotton-producing countries in the region and its export of cotton, which accounts for approximately 40% of its exports to the US. He emphasized the market access opportunities under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

Ambassador Kananathan expressed his gratitude for Benin’s continued support for Sri Lanka at international forums and reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering closer ties with Benin. As Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Benin, he emphasized his dedication to strengthening bilateral relations through exploring potential avenues such as bilateral trade and investment, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic development of both countries. President Talon assured Ambassador Kananathan of his government’s support for enhancing bilateral ties and encouraged close collaboration with relevant authorities.

Benin, situated in West Africa, is renowned for its political stability, favourable investment climate, and commitment to economic reforms. With its growing economy and strategic regional position, Benin presents significant opportunities for foreign investors across various sectors, supported by a business-friendly environment and government incentives.

The Sri Lanka High Commission in Nairobi, Kenya, is concurrently accredited to 23 countries in central, eastern, and western Africa. Additionally, it serves as the Permanent Mission for UN agencies in Kenya, including UN-HABITAT and UNEP.

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

Nigeria Pays Full Assessment to African Union for Year 2023

July 16, 2023

Nigeria has fulfilled its financial obligations to the African Union (AU) by making full payment of its assessed contributions for the year 2023.

The confirmation was made on Saturday by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Adamu Ibrahim Lamuwa, on the sidelines of the 43rd Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the AU in Nairobi, Kenya.

Ambassador Lamuwa explained that the payment demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to its responsibilities as an AU member-state.

He praised President Bola Tinubu for living up to expectations not only as the Chairperson of ECOWAS but also as a President who emphasizes prompt payment of financial assessments.

During the Executive Council meeting, the Permanent Secretary shared Nigeria’s stance on the proposed 2024 Budget of the AU.

He welcomed the consideration of the economic outlook of African countries and the execution rate of AU departments and organs, over the past three years, in the budget drafting process.

‘‘Nigeria emphasized the importance of an austerity-driven, results-oriented budget that avoids duplication.

‘‘Accountability and prudent resource management were also highlighted to encourage other member countries to fulfill their financial obligations,’’ he said.

The Permanent Secretary called for synergy and complementarity among AU organs and departments and requested that the AU Commission (AUC) reduce travel costs by hosting more meetings at its headquarters in Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia.

He also stressed the need for compliance with internal audit processes to ensure transparency and accountability.

President Tinubu is scheduled to attend the 5th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting on Sunday in Nairobi, where discussions on other significant matters will take place.

Ambassador Lamuwa also highlighted that the ministerial-level meeting preceding the Heads of State’s participation adopted the theme of Education for the AU in 2024.

He noted that this aligns well with President Tinubu’s focus on education as a priority area domestically, making his leadership in Nigeria and ECOWAS timely and beneficial.

Nigeria is one of the major financial contributors to the African Union (AU), alongside four other member-states.

The AU’s 2023 budget of $654.8 million is primarily financed through annual statutory contributions and voluntary contributions from development partners, as well as other miscellaneous income.

Development partners play a crucial role in supporting the AU’s budget, covering at least 67% of the total amount while Member-states, including Nigeria, contribute to the remaining balance of the budget based on the approved scale of assessment by the Executive Council.

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

President Tinubu Urges African Leaders: Respect Democracy, Ensure Political Stability

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu on Saturday in Nairobi, Kenya, called on African leaders to respect democracy, rule of law, and ensure political stability.

In his statement at a high-level event organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on the margins of Fifth Mid-Year African Union (AU) Coordination Meeting, the President urged African military institutions and states to recognize and respect the need for democratic renewal.

The Nigerian leader, who is also the Chairperson of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, said coups d’état should be discouraged in the continent, especially in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, insecurity, and climate change.

The President, in his statement, presented by Ambassador Adamu Ibrahim Lamuwa, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said it was regrettable that West Africa, despite its numerous instruments and mechanisms for promoting democracy and good governance, is leading other regions in the use of unconstitutional means to change governments.

He warned that the ugly trend of the military straying into the political arena is causing threats to peace, security and stability, and engendering poverty, displacement, and humanitarian crises.

”This ugly trend has only succeeded in threatening the peace, security and stability of the sub-region and by extension the African continent, leaving in its trail poverty, internally-displaced persons and humanitarian crisis. In the same vein, this ugly trend has also led to food shortages and escalated health challenges.

”We therefore must take deliberate steps to address the root causes of unconstitutional changes and coups d’état in Africa. As a continent, we cannot make progress toward achieving the goals and targets of the UN Agenda 2030 for sustainable development, as well as those of AU Agenda 2063 for the “Africa We Want”.

”Between 2020 and now, Africa has witnessed six successful coups d’état and three unsuccessful attempts. This rise in military takeovers and unconstitutional changes in government disrupts our democratic processes and undermine stability on the continent.

”It is for this reason that I call on all African leaders at all levels to make concerted efforts in respecting the tenets of democracy and the rule of law, in order to ensure political stability on the continent,” he said.

Reiterating that Africa has no intention of regressing on its democratic gains and credentials, as well as its maturing democratic political culture, President Tinubu said:

”I call on all Afro-centric supranational organisations, especially the African Union, the various Regional Economic Communities and Regional Mechanisms, to individually and collectively adopt Protocols on democracy and good governance, and ensure their effective implementation.”

While acknowledging that democracy may present challenges in terms of management and dynamics, President Tinubu reiterated that it is the best form of government for 21st century Africa.

Drawing a comparison between military rule and democratic regimes, he noted that democracy ensures good governance, inclusivity, transparency, and accountability.

Emphasizing the need to disincentivize coups d’état, the ECOWAS Chairperson urged the United Nations to take a firm stance against military coups.

”It is my view that while grappling with the challenges caused by the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and other geostrategic tragedies, including insecurity and climate change amongst others, African leaders must disincentivize coups d’état.

”The United Nations must also stand firm and unyielding in its opposition to military coups,” he said.

He also acknowledged that democracy and development are interconnected in achieving sustainable goals and the African vision, adding that commitment to democratic principles and governance is crucial for long-term peace, security, and economic growth.

As Chairperson of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President expressed his readiness to work with the UNDP and other development partners to advance the cause of democracy on the African continent.

The Nigerian leader thanked UNDP for inviting him to deliver a goodwill message at the event and assured the organization of his commitment to confronting the issue of military coups and promoting democratic renewal in Africa.

”The issue of Military Coups and the need for Democratic renewal in Africa is one that I am passionate about and indeed committed, along with my colleagues, to confront and we are prepared to change the narratives,” he said.

He commended the UNDP for launching its flagship report “Soldiers and Citizens: Military Coups and the Need for Democratic Renewal in Africa,” stating that the military has no place in the governance of the 21st Century Africa.

Jide Okeke, UNDP Regional Programme Coordinator (Africa), said his organization invited the Nigerian leader after his inspiring message, denouncing military coups, during his inauguration as Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government on July 9.

He expressed delight that President Tinubu’s presence and participation in the UN high-level event demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to democratic values and stability, reasserting Nigeria’s leadership in Africa and the global community.

He described the President’s message as sending a positive signal to the international community about Nigeria’s commitment to democratic values and stability.

On UNDP flagship report, the African Regional Coordinator said it is timely in advancing Nigeria’s vision of stability for West Africa and the continent as a whole.

He explained that the report combines empirical data, literature, and personal stories from citizens who have lived through coups, contrasting their experiences with those in countries transitioning to democracy.

Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambian Abroad, Dr Mamadou Tangara, Hanna Tetteh, Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, Amb. Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner of Political Affairs, Peace and Security, African Union Commission, delivered their respective remarks at the event.

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

Backed with $1.5M, Accelab is Changing the Gaming Landscape in Morocco

July 15, 2023

Accelab, the innovative entrepreneurial incubator, is making waves in the African gaming industry. The incubator which has accumulated over $1.5 million in funding since it was founded in 2020, is set to revolutionize the gaming landscape in Morocco and pave the way for groundbreaking developments in the sector.

In a recent partnership, Accelab joined forces with the Moroccan Games and Sports organization, creating a dynamic alliance dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The collaboration was celebrated during a momentous meeting held at the headquarters of Moroccan Games and Sports, where the winners of the highly anticipated “Morocco Sportech Summit” competition convened on June 9th, 2023.

The triumphant startups, Adaptmove, Sportym, and Lgame, emerged victorious from the competition and are poised to transform the gaming industry in Morocco. Specializing in sports and e-sports, these visionary companies will soon embark on an acceleration program designed to propel their innovative projects to new heights. Supported by the Moroccan Games and Sports and spearheaded by Accelab, this program is tailored to meet the unique needs of the sports industry.

The “Morocco Sports Technology Summit” served as the perfect platform to unite professionals from the realms of innovation, investment, and sports. The forum’s primary objective was to highlight the multitude of opportunities in the sports sector, with a particular focus on the rapidly expanding global e-sports industry. Distinguished experts, investors, contractors, and influential figures gathered for the inaugural session, engaging in thought-provoking discussions and exploring the endless possibilities that lie within the sports and gaming realms. The climax of the event was the startup competition, where pioneering entrepreneurs presented their cutting-edge projects to a panel of industry experts.

Out of the fierce competition, three exceptional startups emerged victorious:

Adaptmove: This innovative startup is revolutionizing sports facilities by catering to individuals with limited mobility. Led by Aziza Gnoun, who draws inspiration from her personal experience with multiple sclerosis, Adaptmove offers state-of-the-art equipment and personalized support. With an integrated social vision, the company holds immense potential for making a positive impact.
Sportym: Co-founded by Majd Bensouda and Yacine Benamour, Sportym introduces an innovative application that simplifies the process of booking tennis and football courts. Through their user-friendly platform, athletes can effortlessly connect with each other and reserve sports facilities. Sportym also aims to expand its services across the entire nation and broaden its offerings to include a diverse range of sports disciplines.
Lgame: Stepping into the world of e-sports, Lgame has developed a dynamic video game platform that organizes tournaments and leagues for players at all skill levels. By providing an immersive and competitive gaming experience, Lgame has quickly gained recognition in the industry. Their collaboration with Accelab promises to enhance their services and provide additional value to professional partners.

The expert jury was captivated by the impressive growth potential, innovative nature, and positive societal impact of these three startups. As a result of their triumph, they have secured their place in Accelab’s acceleration program, which enjoys generous support and funding from the Moroccan Games and Sports. Through this program, the startups will receive customized support, gain access to a network of esteemed mentors and experts, and be presented with opportunities for financing from both local and international investment funds.

Mr. Othman bin Ghazaleh, the General Manager of Accelab, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “In the past three years, we have supported and nurtured 68 startups, raising a total of 15 million dirhams ($1.5M). However, our primary goal has always been to promote sports entrepreneurship and draw investor attention to the brilliant minds within the sports industry. The success of the Morocco Summit Competition for Sports Technology, which took place on June 9, 2023, would not have been possible without the unwavering support of Al-Maghrabia for Games and Sports.”

Mr. Younes Mechrafi, the General Manager of Al-Maghrabia for Games and Sports, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to supporting and financing the incubation program led by Accelab. Their shared vision aims to empower startups in the sports and e-commerce sectors, providing them with the necessary tools to unlock their true potential and achieve resounding success. Through tailored support and access to a professional ecosystem, the winning startups will be equipped to implement their projects effectively and make a lasting impact.

Based in Rabat, Accelab stands as an esteemed innovation and investment incubator, established in 2020 by a network of visionary entrepreneurs. The organization provides mentoring programs, an enabling work environment, and a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. Its mission is to offer specialized expertise, engineering support, and suitable facilities to nurture progress and catalyze success. Over the course of three years, Accelab has supported 68 startups and successfully raised funding totaling 15 million dirhams.

As the partnership between Accelab and the Moroccan Games and Sports organization gains momentum, coupled with the unwavering support and funding from Al-Maghrabia for Games and Sports, a new era dawns upon the gaming landscape in Morocco. With tailored support and expert guidance, these innovative startups are poised to usher in a new era of gaming, forever changing the face of the industry.

Accelab Morocco Accelab Morocco Accelab Morocco

President Ruto of Kenya Promises to Protect Investors

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

Ubongo Celebrates 10 Years of Transforming Education in Africa

July 14, 2023

Ubongo (www.Ubongo.org), Africa’s leading children’s edutainment and Media Company, is excited to announce its 10-year anniversary, marking a decade of transforming education and empowering millions of children across the continent. With an impressive portfolio of educational programs including Akili and Me, Ubongo Kids, and the recent addition of the captivating new show Nuzo and Namia, Ubongo continues to set the standard in innovative learning experiences for kids.

Since its founding in July of 2013 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Ubongo has been dedicated to providing fun, localized, and multi-platform educational content that helps children foster a lifelong love of learning. Through accessible technologies like TV, radio, and mobile phones, Ubongo has reached over 32 million families across Africa, making a significant impact on the continent’s education landscape. Independent research studies examining Ubongo’s programs have consistently revealed their profound impact, enhancing school readiness, improving learning outcomes, and fostering positive social and behavioral change among both children and their caregivers.

Over the past 10 years, Ubongo has grown from a small Tanzanian grassroots startup to a Pan-African non-profit organization and the market leader in African edutainment. Ubongo’s innovative and engaging edutainment programs empower kids with the knowledge and critical skills they need to change their lives and their communities for the better.

“We are thrilled to celebrate this incredible milestone of 10 years,” said Mwasi Wilmore, CEO of Ubongo. “It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our team, partners, and supporters who have believed in our mission and contributed to our success. Together, we have made a significant impact on education in Africa, and we are committed to continuing our journey of transforming learning for generations to come.”

In commemoration of this significant milestone, Ubongo has arranged a special 10-year anniversary event in Dar es Salaam to celebrate the accomplishments and milestones achieved throughout the years. The event will feature inspiring speeches and captivating presentations showcasing the journey and impact of Ubongo’s edutainment programs.

“We invite all our partners, supporters, and stakeholders to join us in celebrating this significant milestone,” added Mwasi Wilmore. “Together, let us reflect on our journey, express our gratitude, and renew our commitment to providing quality education and transformative learning experiences for children in Africa.”

“As we look ahead to the next decade, we remain steadfast in our mission to reach even more children, leveraging the power of edutainment to unlock their potential and shape a brighter future for Africa,” added Mwasi Wilmore.

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

President Ruto of Kenya Promises to Protect Investors

The President of Kenya has said that Kenya has a democratic system with a sound footing of the rule of law that protects investors. The Government is creating a friendly environment that will attract more foreign investments to Kenya. President William Ruto said the Government will also routinely refine its policies to make it more facilitative for businesses to operate in the country.

“We will keep engaging with investors so as to make our laws more pro-business. This will spur their growth.”

He was speaking on Thursday at State House, Nairobi, during the Kenya-Saudi Arabia business delegation meeting. Led by the Saudi Arabia Minister of Investment Khalid Al Falih, the delegation — made up of 30 major firms — is one of the largest single business groups ever to undertake a visit to Kenya.

President Ruto noted that Kenya is strategically located, making it easy for businesses to access the lucrative markets in the region and Africa in general. He said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), of more than 1.4 billion, also offers broader opportunities for their goods and services.

The President further told the meeting that Kenya has a democratic system with a sound footing of the rule of law that protects investors.

“This means when you set up in Kenya, markets for your products are limitless. You will get value for your investment.”

He cited ICT, leather, transport, renewable energy, housing, blue economy, agriculture, among others, as some of the ripe investments in the country. The Head of State explained that the current balance of trade favours Saudi Arabia.

“That is why I encourage you to participate in enabling Kenya to correct this imbalance by locating more industries here.”

Cabinet secretaries Moses Kuria (Minister for Investments, Trade and Industry), Davies Chirchir (Energy) and Florence Bore (Labour) among other officials were in the meeting.

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

Angola and The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to Ink Milestone Oil & Gas Agreement

July 13, 2023

Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are set to make history with the signing of an agreement for the development of Block 14 on Thursday 13 July in Kinshasa. The agreement, set to be signed by Diamantino Pedro Azevedo, Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas of the Republic of Angola and his DRC counterpart Minister Didier Budimbu Ntubuanga, will mark a major milestone in the collaboration between the two African nations and holds immense significance for both countries.

The signing of the agreement will authorize the Block’s ownership, with the DRC and Angola taking a 30% stake each while global energy major – and block operator –Chevron taking a 40% stake. The signing puts an end to decades-long deliberations between the countries and is a testament to both Minister Azevedo and Minister Ntubuanga’s commitment to advancing oil and gas exploration on the back of regional collaboration.

For Angola, the signing enables the country to leverage its experience as a major oil producer to grow both its domestic market and the regional economy. Boasting an abundant 9 billion barrels of oil reserves and producing over 1.08 million barrels of oil per day (February 2023), Angola stands out as an African oil powerhouse. The country has done exceptionally well in harnessing its own resources to advance economic growth, and continues to drive a series of impactful project developments across the entire energy value chain. This success makes the country the partner of choice for up-and-coming oil producers such as the DRC.

By leveraging its position as a significant oil producer, Angola seeks to advance regional basin development and encourage cooperation across the African energy industry. Sharing knowledge and expertise with the DRC will not only strengthen their bilateral relations but also contribute to the overall growth and stability of the region.

For the DRC, this represents a breakthrough in its pursuit of new oil supplies and joint development opportunities. The signing of the deal and associated development of the Block will enable the DRC to increase daily crude oil production. As one of the largest countries in Africa, the DRC has long sought to tap into its abundant natural resources, especially its unexploited oil deposits. The country boasts up to five billion barrels of reserves, and the agreement with Angola paves the way for several paths of cooperation and significant information exchange, allowing the DRC to capitalize on Angola’s profound expertise and extensive experience as a prominent oil producer. This partnership is set to unlock several exchanges across a range of areas, including but not limited to technology transfer, best practices in exploration and production, refining and processing techniques, and efficient management of oil resources. Angola’s valuable insights and lessons learned can be instrumental in enhancing the DRC’s own oil sector, optimizing its operations, and maximizing the economic potential of its petroleum resources.

The Chamber acknowledges and commends both governments and their respective teams for their exceptional leadership and dedication in successfully finalizing this monumental deal. The negotiation process for this agreement spanned an impressive two-decade period, during which the combined efforts of both governments were crucial in overcoming various challenges and preventing further delays on the project.

This landmark deal not only paves the way for extensive exploration activities in the DRC, but also serves as a catalyst for promoting regional collaborations. By fostering partnerships and cooperation, this agreement unlocks significant opportunities for cross-border initiatives and mutually beneficial ventures among neighboring countries.

The African Energy Chamber recognizes the immense significance of this achievement, which has been made possible through the unwavering commitment and collaborative spirit demonstrated by both governments and their dedicated teams. Their unwavering determination and tireless efforts have paved the way for a new era of exploration and regional cooperation in the DRC and beyond.

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

Ethiopia Urged to Halt Mass Deportation of Eritreans

United Nations experts have condemned Ethiopia’s summary expulsion of hundreds of Eritreans at the end of June. They called on the authorities to immediately halt any further deportations and put an end to the continuing reports of arbitrary detention of Eritrean refugees, asylum-seekers and migrants.

“Collective expulsions are prohibited under international law,” the experts said. “Deporting migrants, refugees and asylum-seekers without conducting an individual and objective risk assessment of their exposure to human rights violations, including torture and enforced disappearance, upon return is refoulement.”

The non-refoulement principle, enshrined in the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and other international human rights treaties and legal instruments, applies to all forms of expulsion, regardless of nationality or migration status, they said.

“Several cases of family separation have been reported following the mass deportations, with parents forced back to Eritrea and children left behind in Ethiopia,” the experts said.

Patterns of human rights violations against forcibly returned Eritreans, including torture, ill-treatment, enforced disappearance, trafficking and arbitrary detention, have been well documented in previous reports by the UN Commission of Inquiry on Eritrea and the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea. “There is no information on the fate or whereabouts of those deported since their return to Eritrea,” the experts said. “We urge the Eritrean authorities to provide information on their fate and whereabouts and to ensure that they can have access to their relatives, lawyers or anyone of their choice.”

The Ethiopian Refugee and Returnee Service (RSS) stated that those deported were not refugees or asylum seekers. However, according to several credible sources, the group included both registered and unregistered refugees and asylum-seekers. The RSS stopped registering newly arrived asylum-seekers in March 2020, preventing them from accessing the asylum process and from applying for protection under international human rights and refugee law.

“The lack of registration and accompanying documentation places refugees and asylum-seekers in a situation of heightened vulnerability and hinders their access to their human rights in Ethiopia,” the experts said. “We urge organisations with refugee protection mandates, including UNHCR, to mobilise and engage proactively with the Ethiopian authorities to address the lack of access to the asylum system and relevant documentation for asylum-seekers and refugees.”

The UN experts expressed grave concern about the ongoing situation of Eritreans in Ethiopia, noting the reports of continued arrests and prolonged arbitrary detention of Eritreans for alleged violations of immigration law, without charge, without access to a lawyer and without judicial process.

“Immigration detention should be an exceptional measure of last resort, used only for adults, for the shortest period of time and for a legitimate purpose,” the experts said. “It also appears that the authorities are specifically targeting Eritreans, a practice that constitutes 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

Egyptian FinTech Fawry Introduces “Yellowcard”: A Game-Changing Prepaid Debit Card for Cashless Transactions

Fawry, the leading provider of banking and electronic payment technology services, has announced the launch of the myfawry “yellowcard” in collaboration with Banque Misr and the Egyptian Banks Company (EBC), the operator of the national payment system called ‘Meeza’. This partnership underscores Fawry’s commitment to developing electronic payment solutions to facilitate financial transactions for individuals and merchants, with the goal of building a cashless society. These efforts align with the directives of the National Payments Council, led by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and the initiatives of the Central Bank of Egypt to support the digital economy.

The “yellowcard” is a prepaid debit card connected to the myfawry application and operates through the national payment network Meeza. This card enables easy usage for all transactions through the application and can be utilized in various places that offer electronic payment services, including shops, malls, restaurants, and online shopping sites. Additionally, it can be used for withdrawals and deposits at ATMs, as well as with point-of-sale (POS) machines throughout the country, making financial transactions more convenient for citizens.

The yellowcard offers numerous solutions and features for cardholders, allowing them to pay for over 415 services, such as mobile phone services, electricity, water, gas, landline bills, and microfinance installment collections. It also facilitates payment of social insurance contributions, school and university expenses, and provides the ability to monitor expenses through monthly limits and transaction tracking.

Obtaining the card is a simple process available to all customers aged 15 and above. By submitting a request with their national ID card, customers can activate their yellowcard on the same day through any of the 220 FawryPlus branches spread across all governorates in the country. Furthermore, the yellowcard provides full financial control over payments, allowing users to monitor expenses and easily load funds through the myfawry app, Instapay application, or Fawry POS devices.

Fawry is committed to further developing the yellowcard by introducing more features and services, which will be announced in the near future.

Eng. Ashraf Sabry, the CEO of Fawry, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership with Banque Misr and the national payment network Meeza. He emphasized Fawry’s continuous efforts to strengthen its collaboration with the Egyptian banking sector, particularly highlighting the pioneering role of Banque Misr in banking services and digital payments. Sabry stated that this partnership aligns with the Egyptian government’s strategy to digitize the country and promote digital services in financial transactions, ultimately fostering a cashless society. He also praised the yellowcard’s cutting-edge technologies, such as the latest smart chip technology, which ensures the security of customer data.

Mr. Akef El Maghraby, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Banque Misr, noted that signing this protocol is part of the bank’s contribution to implementing the Central Bank of Egypt’s strategy for enhancing financial inclusion. Banque Misr aims to collaborate with various partners and digital platforms that promote financial and digital inclusion. He expressed appreciation for the partnership with Fawry and the national payment network Meeza, which work toward expanding access to a cashless society. He emphasized the importance of keeping pace with the development of financial technology to support the economy and stimulate technological companies as integral parts of the national economy.

Al-Maghrabi further stressed that this protocol aligns with the Egyptian government’s directives to accelerate comprehensive and sustainable development. He highlighted the significance of digital transformation and support for financial technology in promoting economic and financial development, ultimately providing appropriate financial solutions to a wider range of society.

Engineer Tarek Raouf, the Executive Chairman and CEO of the Egyptian Banks Company for Technological Advancement (EBC), commented on the collaboration, stating that in line with the Central Bank of Egypt’s vision, EBC enables the transition to electronic payments by establishing and modernizing a robust technological infrastructure for national payment systems and networks, in compliance with international standards. EBC takes pride in operating Egypt’s domestic card scheme, the leading national brand known as “Meeza,” with a customer base exceeding 33 million cards. Raouf highlighted the ongoing collaboration among key players in the payments ecosystem, emphasizing its role in promoting financial inclusion for new segments. This cooperation aligns with EBC’s strategic efforts to introduce a variety of card products that cater to the needs of diverse customer segments under the Meeza National scheme.

Tech Companies Positions Ethiopia for Outsourcing Boom

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

How Phishing Scheme is Targeting Cryptocurrency Users Worldwide

July 12, 2023

A phishing campaign targeting cryptocurrency users across the globe was unearthed by Kaspersky. The scheme showcases the ever-evolving tactics used by cybercriminals, reflecting cryptocurrency’s increasing appeal.
Between March and May 2023 alone, over 85,000 scam emails containing both hot and cold wallets were detected. This nefarious campaign reached its peak in March, with more than 34,000 intercepted malicious messages. A report revealing the intricacies of these two distinct email attack techniques highlights the difference between hot and cold cryptocurrency storage methods.

With over 400,000,000 cryptocurrency wallet owners globally, the spike in popularity of hot wallets come from their accessible nature. Online storage services like crypto exchanges and dedicated apps have become prime targets for cybercriminals.
Phishing attacks aimed at hot wallet users typically employ relatively simple tactics, often exploiting non-technical individuals. Fraudulent emails impersonate crypto exchanges, urging users to validate transactions or reconfirm wallet security.

The links redirect unsuspecting victims to fake web pages that actively prompt them to enter their seed phrase, which is an essential element for wallet recovery. By gaining access to the seed phrase, scammers can seize control of the victim’s wallet and transfer funds to their own accounts.
In contrast, cold wallets are entirely offline storage systems, like a dedicated device or a private key jotted down on paper. Hardware wallets are a prevalent type of cold wallet. They have garnered favor among users storing substantial cryptocurrency holdings due to their enhanced security measures.
However, Kaspersky researchers recently discovered a targeted phishing campaign specifically tailored to exploit cold wallet owners. Initiating the campaign, an email masquerades as a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, Ripple, enticing recipients with the promise of participating in an XRP token giveaway.

“We are witnessing an ongoing surge in the popularity of cryptocurrencies, and with it, the need for users to stay alert and implement strong security measures to protect their digital assets. It is crucial to verify the authenticity of the sender and exercise caution before clicking on any links or providing sensitive information,” states Dedenok, a security expert at Kaspersky.

Instead of directing victims to a phishing page, scammers employ a more sophisticated technique by creating a deceptive blog post that mimics the Ripple website’s design. The blog offers users the chance to enter a giveaway of XRP tokens, the platform’s internal cryptocurrency, by following a specified link. Scam victims visiting a fake Ripple page resembling the official domain are prompted to connect hardware wallets to the site.
This interaction allows scammers to gain access to victims’ accounts and initiate fraudulent transactions.

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