Category: MIL-OSI

Posted on

Capture the bigger picture with the widest Canon Cine-Servo lens yet

Source: APO

Canon Europe (www.Canon-Europe.com) today announces the expansion of its cinema lens range with the launch of its widest-ever Cine-Servo lens.. With its ultra-wide 11mm focal length and expansive 100-degree angle of view, the Canon CN5x11 IAS T R1/P1 is a flexible choice for confined studio setups and dynamic live events, where framing both the subject and setting is essential. Available in either RF or PL mount, the new lens features the latest e-Xs V Digital Drive Unit for superior control and functionality. 

At approximately 3kg, the CN5x11 IAS T R1/P1 is the most lightweight lens in Canon’s Cine-Servo lineup – ideal for gimbals, cranes, robotics and wire cams. Camera operators shooting shoulder-mounted will also appreciate its reduced weight. 

“With the CN5x11 IAS T R1/P1‘s diverse capability and balanced build, this super-wide 8K Cine-Servo lens offers exceptional edge-to-edge sharpness and image quality, with mobility for broadcast professionals,” says Canon Europe’s Product Marketing Specialist Mark Fensome. “Thanks to the built-in 1.5x Extender, this lens is highly versatile – either extending the range when used on a Super 35mm camera or enabling compatibility with Full Frame cameras. It delivers a shallow depth of field that lends a more cinematic look to live production and newsgathering, as well as high-end documentaries and dramas.” 

Thanks to its removable servo unit, the CN5x11 IAS T R1/P1 can be easily configured for live sports and events or cinema. It is the second Cine-Servo lens to be equipped with Canon’s next-generation e-Xs V Digital Drive Unit, which offers more precise and ergonomic servo control, a more responsive iris and USB-C connectivity. 

The CN5x11 IAS T R1/P1 is available in RF or PL mount, further enhancing its versatility. In PL mount, the lens supports Cooke /i Technology™ and ZEISS eXtended Data™ for real-time output of metadata, while the RF mount variant brings additional capabilities – including Dual Pixel CMOS AF support for fast and smooth autofocus, plus advanced lens correction data. 

Key features of the CN5x11 IAS T R1/P1: 

  • Widest Canon Cine-Servo lens, with an 11-55 mm focal length and 100-degree angle of view  
  • Super 35mm lens with Full Frame support (via built-in 1.5x extender) 
  • Approx. 3kg in weight, providing comfortable on-the-shoulder shooting and extensive rigging flexibility 
  • Premium 8K HDR optical quality with 11-blade iris 
  • Removable, latest generation e-Xs V digital drive unit, featuring a high resolution 16-bit absolute value encoder with advanced servo control, focus breathing correction and improved ergonomics 
  • RF or PL mount communication with real-time metadata output, supporting virtual production systems and VFX workflows; RF mount also supports lens distortion correction and Canon’s advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF system 
  • Versatile design for diverse broadcast and cinematic production 

For more information about the CN5x11 IAS T R1/P1, please visit: https://apo-opa.co/46Am9xm

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa 
Mai Youssef 
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency 
Rania ElRafie 
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com 

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market. 

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.  

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/4mbdeXO)– ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better. 

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com 

Media files

.

Posted on

Government urges calm amid water challenges in JHB

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, September 12, 2025

Government has called for calm amidst protests over persistent water supply challenges in Westbury and Coronationville, Johannesburg. 

In a statement on Thursday, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) acknowledged the seriousness of the communities’ concerns and said work is underway to implement a long-term, sustainable solutions to ensure reliable water supply to the affected communities.

The City of Johannesburg, through Joburg Water, has announced medium-to-long term measures aimed at sustainably addressing the water challenges. 

These include measures to mitigate against the strain caused by low water levels in some of the reservoirs supplying the affected areas, and work by Joburg Water to complete and commission the new Brixton reservoir and tower by the end of October 2025. 

Joburg Water is also working on stabilising the system by managing demand with the aim to improve reservoir levels.

Government has directed the City of Johannesburg to implement immediate interim measures to address the current water supply challenges.

“Communities are urged to allow these measures to be carried out without disrupting the workers, as any interference will delay their implementation,” the GCIS said.

While government respects the right of communities to raise their grievances through protests as enshrined in Section 17 of the Constitution, the department emphasised that residents have the responsibility to exercise this right peacefully and without damage to property. 

“The destruction of infrastructure and acts of violence only delay the very solutions that communities are demanding,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Provinces report slight increase in spending

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, September 12, 2025

The South African provinces have spent R198.4 billion, or 24.8 percent of the allocated main budget of R798.6 billion during the first quarter of the 2025/26 financial year.

This spending represents an increase of 1.7 percent or R3.3 billion compared to the same period of the previous financial year.

This is according to the statement released by the National Treasury in terms of Section 32 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

The report covers provincial receipts and payments for the first quarter (April to June 2025) of the 2025/26 financial year.

“Spending on education amounted to R85.1 billion or 25.4 percent of the sector’s main budget of R334.5 billion. Spending was R3.5 billion (4.3 percent) higher compared to the same period of the previous financial year.

“Provinces spent R68.1 billion against the main budget of R270.8 billion providing health services during the first quarter of 2025/26. This spending is R787.6 million (1.1 percent) lower than the spending recorded over the same period in 2024/25,” National Treasury said on Friday. 

Social development expenditure at the end of the first quarter of 2025/26 amounted to R5.5 billion of the total main budget of R23.3 billion. This represents a decrease of 3.1 per cent or R177.9 million compared to the same period in 2024/25.

Personnel expenditure (compensation of employees) amounted to R122.8 billion or 24.6 per cent of the R499.6 billion main budgets as at 30 June 2025. This represents an increase of 5 per cent or R5.9 billion compared to the same period of the 2024/25 financial year.

Aggregate spending on goods and services is R41.3 billion or 25.2 per cent of the R163.7 billion main budget. This is 2.5 per cent or R1.1 billion lower compared to the same period in 2024/25, reflecting tighter control in this category of spending.

For the year to date, payments for capital assets (capital spending) amount to R8.7 billion or 20.1 percent of the R43 billion main budget. The spending rate has decreased by 6.8 percent or R635.1 million compared to the same period in the previous financial year, pointing to slower delivery of capital projects in the first quarter.

Provinces collected R5.9 billion or 22.4 percent of the budgeted own revenue of R26.3 billion target for the year. 

Own revenue collections were higher by R399 million or 8 percent compared to the same period in the previous financial year, reflecting improved provincial revenue performance.

The budgeted figures are based on the 2025 Estimates of Provincial Revenue and Expenditure documents, which were presented to the provincial legislatures between March and June 2025.

The full statement is available on the National Treasury website at www.treasury.gov.za. –SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Deadline looms for MSMEs to access business infrastructure support

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) has reminded entrepreneurs and small business owners that the application period for the Business Infrastructure Support Programme (BISP) is still open. 

The BISP aims to enhance the growth and sustainability of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing critical infrastructure, equipment, technology, and energy solutions, especially in underserved areas. 

The programme supports the construction of MSME hubs, provision of equipment, tools, machinery, and renewable energy, and offers business development services to improve efficiency and competitiveness.

With the call for applications launched on 1 September 2025, eligible Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and cooperatives are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.

The BISP is a critical initiative by the DSBD to support the growth and development of MSMEs in South Africa. By providing infrastructure, equipment, and business development services, the programme aims to create an enabling environment for small businesses to thrive.

A call for applications/ proposals was issued via the DSBD website and other relevant platforms to maximise participation.

“The application process for the programme consists of two separate application forms one specifically for built infrastructure projects and another for equipment, tools, machinery, technology, and energy support interventions. Applicants are required to submit their completed applications and any related enquiries through a dedicated email address.

“To ensure a complete submission, applicants must include all necessary supporting documentation, such as Property Commission (CIPC) registration, tax compliance certificates, recent bank statements, financial projections, and relevant quotations,” the department said on Friday.

This process is designed to streamline the assessment and ensure that all proposals meet the programme’s eligibility and compliance requirements.

How to Apply:

  • Interested applicants can access the application portal and programme guidelines on: https://vcmasa.dsbd.gov.za/exportprogramme/. For more information, please contact [BISP@dsbd.gov.za].
  • Application Deadline: 19 September 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Seona Shand Shortlisted for Prestigious Athena Awards 2025

Source: APO

Seona Shand, Chief Operating Officer of the Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA) (www.AfricaScot.com), has been named as a finalist in the Women in Business Support and Consultancy Award category at the Athena Awards 2025, hosted by Business Women Connect Aberdeen.

The Athena Awards shine a spotlight on women across the North East and beyond who are breaking barriers, driving growth and making a tangible difference in their industries and communities. For Seona, being shortlisted in the Women in Business Support and Consultancy category reflects her dedication to helping businesses from all sectors and all sizes to unlock international opportunities, expand their horizons and take their first steps into global markets.

As Chief Operating Officer of SABA, Seona plays a central role in guiding Scottish businesses into new territories, providing expertise and insight that has already helped countless organisations build connections across Africa and beyond. Her leadership extends beyond her role at SABA, as she also sits on the Scottish Government’s Export Gender Gap Working Group, where she contributes to shaping fairer and more inclusive access to international trade for women and underrepresented groups.

Speaking about the shortlisting, Seona said: “It’s incredible to be shortlisted for another award this year, and I know this recognition is only possible because of the support I have from our CEO, Frazer Lang, and our board. Their trust allows me to focus on what I care about most — helping countless businesses take their first steps into international markets. I also want to wish the other shortlisted candidates the very best of luck. We’re all in this together and it’s inspiring to see the talent being recognised.”

While Seona now prepares for the final interview stage, she remains focused on her work supporting businesses to grow internationally and highlighting Scotland’s strengths on the global stage.

The winners of the Athena Awards will be announced later this year, but for Seona, the shortlisting alone is a reminder of the impact that collaboration, vision and a strong support network can have.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA).

About the Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA):
SABA is the preeminent non-political, Africa focussed, members trade organisation with an unrivalled board of experienced directors which promotes trade, investment and knowledge sharing between Scotland’s world class expertise and Africa’s priority sectors including energy, agriculture, the blue economy, healthcare, skills training and education by leveraging extensive commercial, trade, political and government contacts across Scotland and Africa.

As part of this, our team organises private meetings, round tables, seminars, conferences, global trade missions and offers market research, intelligence sharing and consultancy services.

Media files

.

Posted on

Basketball Africa League et Afreximbank étendent leur collaboration pluriannuelle visant l’autonomisation des jeunes professionnels en Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Basketball Africa League (BAL) (https://BAL.NBA.com/) et la Banque africaine d’import-export (Afreximbank), une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine de premier plan dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain, ont annoncé samedi l’élargissement de leur collaboration pluriannuelle pour lancer une série d’initiatives. Ces initiatives visent à autonomiser les jeunes professionnels du basketball en Afrique en améliorant leurs capacités financières. Elles visent également à soutenir les industries créatives du continent. 

L’élargissement de la collaboration a été annoncée lors de la quatrième Foire commerciale intra-africaine (IATF2025) en cours en Algérie par le président de la BAL, Amadou Gallo Fall, et Mme Kanayo Awani, vice-présidente exécutive en charge du développement du commerce et des exportations intra-africains à Afreximbank, lors d’une cérémonie de signature organisée dans le cadre du Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) d’Afreximbank qui se tient sous les auspices de l’IATF2025.  

Avec cette expansion, Afreximbank s’appuiera sur le soutien que l’institution accorde déjà à BAL Advance : le programme de la ligue visant à renforcer les compétences financières et de leadership parmi les joueurs et les entraîneurs de la BAL, en introduisant “BAL Advance: Next Play” lors de la sixième saison de la ligue qui débutera en 2026. Grâce à des ateliers commerciaux ciblés et à des opportunités de réseautage stratégique, la nouvelle initiative aidera les joueurs et les entraîneurs de la BAL à développer leurs compétences entrepreneuriales et à mettre à contribution leurs perspectives uniques pour stimuler l’innovation et la croissance dans l’écosystème sportif africain. 

Pour la première fois, Afreximbank soutiendra également le développement de jeunes professionnels du sport grâce à BAL Future Pros, le programme annuel de la ligue visant à doter les jeunes talents africains des compétences, de l’expérience et des réseaux nécessaires pour réussir leur carrière. Les candidatures en ligne pour ce programme seront ouvertes en fin septembre sur les sites NBA Careers (https://apo-opa.co/4m9DAJA) et BAL(https://BAL.NBA.com/). Les participants sélectionnés seront intégrés dans différents départements de la BAL d’ici la fin de l’année. 

Après la cérémonie de signature, le Président de la BAL, Amadou Gallo Fall et M. Temwa Gondwe, directeur des activités créatives et de la diaspora d’Afreximbank, ont participé à une discussion et à un cours magistral sur le monde du sport, animées par Ian Mahinmi, champion NBA 2011 et ambassadeur de la BAL. La BAL et Afreximbank ont également organisé un camp BAL4Her pour 20 athlètes féminines de moins de 23 ans de la communauté locale au tribunal de Staouéli à Alger, les 5 et 6 septembre. 

Le Président de la BAL, Amadou Gallo Fall a déclaré : « Notre collaboration de longue date avec Afreximbank s’inscrit dans notre engagement à utiliser le basketball comme moteur de croissance économique et la BAL comme plateforme pour développer et mettre en valeur l’excellence africaine. Nous nous réjouissons de poursuivre notre collaboration avec Afreximbank afin de développer l’écosystème du basketball africain et, plus largement, l’industrie sportive du continent ».  

Commentant la collaboration élargie, Mme Awani a souligné l’importante contribution de la BAL à l’avancement du secteur créatif africain. 

Elle a déclaré : « Afreximbank s’engage à soutenir les principaux événements de réseautage et de réflexion de la BAL, notamment le Sommet annuel de l’innovation de la ligue. Nous soutiendrons également le lancement prochain d’une nouvelle série de contenus mettant à l’honneur les créateurs de mode africains dans le sport ».  

Distribué par APO Group pour Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Contacts :
Marie-Pierre Anamba Onana
responsable des relations publiques de la BAL
manamba@thebal.com  

Vincent Musumba
Responsable Communication et Événements d’Afreximbank (Relations Médias)
press@afreximbank.com 

Nous suivre sur : 
X
Facebook
LinkedIn
Instagram

À propos de la BAL :
La BAL, fruit d’un partenariat entre la Fédération internationale de basket-ball (FIBA) et la NBA, est une nouvelle ligue professionnelle de basket-ball regroupant 12 équipes venues de toute l’Afrique. De son siège à Dakar, la BAL s’inspire des compétitions organisées en Afrique par la FIBA et marque la première collaboration de la NBA pour gérer une ligue hors Amérique du Nord. Les fans peuvent suivre la BAL sur Twitter, Instagram et Facebook (@ theBAL) et s’inscrire sur www.TheBAL.com pour rester informés de ses dernières actualités.  

À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque africaine d’import-export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine avec pour mandat le financement et la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis plus de 30 ans, la Banque déploie des structures innovantes pour proposer des solutions de financement qui soutiennent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain, accélérant l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, stimulant ainsi l’expansion économique du continent. Fervent partisan de l’Accord de libre-échange continental africain (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS), adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme plateforme de paiement et de règlement pour soutenir la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars américains pour soutenir les pays participant efficacement à la ZLECAf.  

Fin décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des provisions pour imprévus d’Afreximbank s’élevait à plus de 40,1 milliards de dollars, et ses fonds propres à 7,2 milliards de dollars. Les agences internationales dédiées attribuent les notations suivantes à Afreximbank : GCR (échelle internationale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) et Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank est devenue un groupe composé de la Banque, de sa filiale de fonds d’investissement à impact social, le Fonds pour le développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure (ces instances formant « le Groupe »). Le siège social de la Banque est situé au Caire, en Égypte.  

Pour plus d’informations, visiter : www.Afreximbank.com

Media files

Posted on

Trust is Fundamental for Africa: In conversation with Dr Jim Harter, Chief Scientist at Gallup, on Closing Distance

Source: APO

Gallup’s Chief Scientist, Dr Jim Harter, joins Closing Distance host Dominic Wilhelm in a new episode, 70 Million Conversations Later, to explore why trust is fundamental for Africa and beyond. Drawing on Gallup’s research across more than 160 countries and 70 million employees – including sobering data from sub-Saharan Africa – Harter reveals how authentic leadership and simple habits can transform stress, disengagement, and loneliness into resilience, performance, and thriving workplaces.

Trust is fundamental to human connection, resilient organisations, and performance that lasts. That was the clear message from Dr Jim Harter, Gallup’s Chief Scientist, in a new episode of Closing Distance with Dominic Wilhelm, Executive Director of The Global Trust Project.

Gallup has surveyed more than 70 million employees worldwide and conducts representative polls in over 160 countries – including across Africa. Its findings are unequivocal: trust underpins engagement, wellbeing, and profitability. Organisations that get trust right not only outperform financially but remain resilient through crises.

The African picture is both sobering and urgent. According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace 2024 report, nearly half of employees in sub-Saharan Africa (48%) experienced significant stress the previous day, compared with a global average of 41%. More than one in four (28%) reported loneliness, again higher than the global average of 22%. And only 17% of workers in the region said they were thriving, compared with 33% globally.

These indicators are not simply statistics: they are signals of trust, or its absence, in workplaces across the continent. When leaders fail to provide clarity, recognition, and care, employees disengage. But where leadership is authentic and close to people, the results are striking.

“The people within those organisations are experiencing high involvement, enthusiasm for their organisation, high interest in their jobs. They’re producing at high levels. They’re holding their own during crises. The organisations themselves are more profitable. They’re serving their customers effectively.” – Dr Jim Harter

Harter’s prescription for rebuilding trust is practical: one meaningful conversation each week between a manager and every team member. For Wilhelm, it connects directly with The Global Trust Project’s Trust Equity Index (TEi), which measures Integrity, Benevolence, Capability, and Inclination alongside key impact factors. The TEi provides African leaders with a structured way to operationalise trustworthiness – turning insight into action.

“Trust isn’t something you build directly,” Wilhelm reflected. “It emerges when integrity, benevolence, and capability are present and lived. Trustworthiness can be operationalised. Trust itself is felt.”

The episode also explored definitions of trust. Harter described it at a basic level as reliability – “can I count on this person?” – and at a deeper level as the confidence to be one’s true self and be accepted. Wilhelm added a widely cited definition: “trust is the willingness to be vulnerable based on expected behaviours.” Both agreed that expected behaviours centre on integrity, benevolence, and capability – qualities that, when present, create the conditions for trust to emerge.

A theme that resonated strongly was proximity. Gallup’s research shows that trust is highest with colleagues and local managers, and weakest with distant leaders. This reflects both human evolution and organisational design. As Harter noted, large organisations are recent inventions in human history, and distance – physical and psychological – can quickly erode trust. Managers therefore play a decisive role: they account for 70 percent of the variance in team engagement, acting as the bridge between leadership vision and employee reality.

The conversation also touched on the language of leadership. Industrial-era models often reduced people to mechanised parts, with annual performance ratings disconnected from lived experience. Harter argued for more humanising language, noting that Gallup refers to managers as “go-tos” – someone employees can turn to for support, goal-setting, and advice – rather than bosses.

The urgency of this message is particularly acute in Africa, where trust intersects with the continent’s biggest priorities. High trust in institutions can accelerate economic growth, strengthen governance, and boost tax compliance. It can also support the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which depends on governments and businesses trusting one another across borders. In the workplace, rebuilding trust is essential for engaging Africa’s young and fast-growing workforce – the largest youth population in the world.

While global trust in institutions has been sliding, the evidence in Africa shows that organisations with great leadership can buck the trend – proving that trust, once restored, becomes a renewable source of resilience and prosperity. Informal economies across Africa already run on trust; formal organisations can draw on these traditions, and on African values of dialogue and relational leadership, to build workplaces where people can thrive.

70 Million Conversations Later: Dr Jim Harter on Closing Distance is available now on the Closing Distance podcast.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Global Trust Project.

Contact us:
path@theglobaltrustproject.one 
+27 21 700 3500
www.TheGlobalTrustProject.com

For more:
path@theglobaltrustproject.one 

Available on Spotify:

Available on YouTube:

Pictures follow and are attached.

About Gallup & Jim Harter:
Gallup is a global analytics and advice firm that studies what people need to live better lives and perform better at work. Its world polls span more than 160 countries, and its workplace research has surveyed over 70 million employees across thousands of organisations, including extensive work in Africa.

Dr Jim Harter is Gallup’s Chief Scientist for Workplace Management and Wellbeing. He has worked at Gallup for nearly four decades and was part of the original team that developed the Gallup World Poll. Harter has co-authored influential books such as Wellbeing at Work and 12: The Elements of Great Managing, and leads Gallup’s ongoing research linking trust, engagement, and wellbeing to organisational performance.

About Closing Distance:
More about The Global Trust Project (TGTP), Dominic Wilhelm & Closing Distance The Global Trust Project equips leaders, teams, organisations, and governments to operationalise trustworthiness as a strategic asset using evidence-based frameworks and learning. Its Trust Equity Index (TEi) enables leaders to measure and manage trust as both human and organisational capital. Executive Director Dominic Wilhelm hosts Closing Distance, a conversation series exploring how trust closes the gaps that hold people and systems back.

Coming Up for TGTP:
Dominic Wilhelm will be delivering a keynote and hosting a High Level Dialogue at the Africa CX Leaders Forum, taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, on September 11 – 12, 2025. The forum is a premier gathering of Africa’s customer experience leaders – bringing together heads of CX from the continent’s largest corporations, national CX associations, and solution providers. Its purpose is to share best practices, explore country-level research on customer preferences, and align transformation efforts with the Global CX Index.

In this context, Wilhelm will highlight how trust translates directly into customer experience. In workplaces where trust is absent, employees experience stress, loneliness, and disengagement – challenges Gallup’s latest research shows are acute in sub-Saharan Africa. Conversely, when organisations operationalise trustworthiness, they unlock the authenticity and resilience that make for customer experiences that are both locally grounded and globally competitive.

Media files

.

Posted on

Africa’s Business Heroes annonce les 10 finalistes de 2025

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

En tant qu’initiative phare d’Alibaba Philanthropy, le concours Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) (www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org) a le plaisir de vous présenter les 10 finalistes sélectionnés pour l’édition 2025 suite aux demi-finales très disputées qui se sont tenues à Dakar, au Sénégal, les 10 et 11 septembre 2025. 

Sélectionnés parmi un pool de près de 32 000 candidatures à travers le continent, les 20 demi-finalistes ont franchi plusieurs tours d’évaluation rigoureux, y compris les entretiens du 2e tour du Top 50, une vérification approfondie des dossiers, et des sessions de présentation en direct devant un panel distingué de juges à Dakar. 

De cette sélection très compétitive, les 10 finalistes ont maintenant été choisis, représentant les entrepreneurs les plus innovants et résilients d’Afrique et incarnant l’esprit d’ingéniosité et d’impact qu’ABH célèbre chaque année. 

« Nos 10 finalistes incarnent le meilleur de l’entrepreneuriat africain – des leaders visionnaires qui construisent des entreprises audacieuses et évolutives créant un impact social et environnemental significatif. Leurs parcours témoignent de l’ingéniosité, de la détermination et de la diversité du talent entrepreneurial africain, des technologies de la santé et de l’agriculture aux fintech, à l’éducation et à la durabilité. Nous sommes ravis de les voir se qualifier pour la grande finale à Kigali, où ils ne rivaliseront pas seulement pour un financement mais inspireront également des millions de personnes à travers le continent avec leurs histoires de résilience et d’innovation. » — Zahra Baitie-Boateng, Directrice Afrique, ABH 

Les demi-finales de cette année ont marqué un tournant : pour la première fois, l’ABH s’est déroulé dans un pays francophone, et plus précisément au Sénégal, soulignant ainsi l’influence croissante de ce pays en tant que pôle d’entrepreneuriat et d’innovation. 

Avec une croissance du PIB de 8,6 % et son titre de prochain pays organisateur des Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse 2026, les premiers sur le sol africain, Dakar a fourni une scène inspirante pour la compétition. 

Les 10 finalistes 2025 sont : 

  1. Wyclife Onyango – BuuPass (Kenya) – Transport / Billetterie numérique 
  2. Siny Samba – Le Lionceau (Sénégal) – FoodTech / Nutrition infantile 
  3. Mukasahaha Diane – DIKAM Ltd (Rwanda) – Textiles / Autonomisation des femmes et des jeunes 
  4. Baraka Chijenga – Kilimo Fresh Foods Africa Limited (Tanzanie) – AgriTech / Sécurité alimentaire 
  5. Janet Kuteli – Fortune Credit Limited (Kenya) – FinTech / Microfinance 
  6. Diana Orembe – NovFeed (Tanzanie) – AgriTech / Biotechnologie 
  7. Abraham Mbuthia – Uzapoint Technologies Limited (Kenya) – Tech PME / Outils numériques 
  8. Gohar Said – Suplyd (Égypte) – FoodTech / Chaîne d’approvisionnement 
  9. Adriaan Kruger – nuvoteQ (Afrique du Sud) – HealthTech / Solutions numériques 
  10. Jean Lobe Lobe – Waspito (Cameroun) – HealthTech / Télémédecine 

Ces Héros auront désormais l’occasion de participer à la 7e Grande Finale ABH à Kigali, au Rwanda, les 12 et 13 décembre 2025, où ils seront en compétition pour remporter leur part d’une subvention totale de 1,5 million de dollars US. Le Lauréat du Grand Prix remportera 300 000 dollars US, tandis que chacun des autres finalistes recevra au moins 100 000 dollars US, ainsi que l’accès au mentorat, aux opportunités de storytelling, et aux réseaux mondiaux pour accélérer leur croissance. Les personnes intéressées sont encouragées à s’inscrire à la newsletter d’Africa’s Business Heroes pour recevoir des nouvelles lorsque l’inscription s’ouvrira. 

Le panel de juges pour les demi-finales comprenait Hasan Haidar (Directeur général, PlusVC), Moulaye Taboure (PDG et fondateur, ANKA, et ancien Héros Top 10 ABH), et Jason Pau (Vice-président, Alibaba Group et Directeur exécutif, Jack Ma Foundation). Ensemble, ils ont évalué les candidats sur l’innovation, l’impact, l’évolutivité et le leadership, réduisant le groupe de 20 à 10. 

« En tant qu’ancien Héros du Top 10 d’ABH, je connais le pouvoir transformateur de cette plateforme. Revenir en tant que juge est un véritable honneur, et je suis ravi de féliciter les 10 finalistes de cette année. Leur innovation, leur résilience et leur impact sont inspirants, et j’ai hâte de les accueillir dans la communauté ABH et de les soutenir alors qu’ils développent leurs entreprises et façonnent l’avenir entrepreneurial de l’Afrique, » a déclaré Moulaye Taboure, PDG et fondateur d’ANKA, et le premier ancien d’ABH à servir comme juge. 

Cet événement n’aurait pas pu voir le jour sans le soutien d’Alibaba Philanthropy et des précieux sponsors sénégalais dont Wave, Sonatel et InTouch Group, ainsi que des partenaires qui ont soutenu la campagne de sensibilisation, notamment Haske Ventures, Impact Hub Dakar, SenStartup et l’African Leadership University (ALU). 

« Wave est honoré de s’associer à Africa’s Business Heroes pour soutenir cet événement historique à Dakar. Ce partenariat va au-delà du simple sponsoring. Il reflète notre engagement à autonomiser les entrepreneurs, à accélérer l’innovation et à positionner le Sénégal comme un pôle de transformation économique pour l’Afrique. Nous sommes fiers de découvrir le talent et la motivation des 10 finalistes, qui façonnent un avenir plus inclusif et plus prospère pour le continent », a déclaré Coura Tine Sene, Directrice Régionale et responsable des affaires publiques chez Wave. 

La 7ème édition du concours du prix ABH continue de célébrer et de soutenir les entrepreneurs africains les plus prometteurs, renforçant ainsi leur impact à travers le continent. 

Pour plus d’informations sur les 10 finalistes 2025, visitez : https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/

Distribué par APO Group pour Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).

Pour les ressources médias et le kit de presse, visitez :
ABH Top 10 Press Kit (https://apo-opa.co/46boGOB)

Pour toute demande médiatique, veuillez contacter :
pr@africabusinessheroes.org 

À propos d’Alibaba Philanthropy :
Alibaba Philanthropy est la branche d’impact sociale du groupe Alibaba, qui s’engage à mettre la technologie et les partenariats au service du bien commun. Son action est axée sur la revitalisation rurale, la protection de l’environnement, les secours en cas de catastrophe et l’autonomisation des communautés vulnérables. En Afrique, Alibaba Philanthropy mène des initiatives phares telles que Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH), qui soutient les entrepreneurs qui œuvrent pour une croissance inclusive et durable à travers le continent. 

À propos de Wave :
Wave s’est donné pour mission de faire de l’Afrique le premier continent cashless. Wave Mobile Money propose des solutions financières mobiles radicalement inclusives et à des tarifs extrêmement abordables destinées à des millions d’utilisateurs à travers l’Afrique. Nous développons des solutions qui permettent à nos clients d’économiser et de transférer l’argent dont ils ont besoin pour réaliser leurs rêves, à des tarifs compétitifs. Nous sommes fiers de placer nos clients au premier plan. Pour en savoir plus, consultez le site: https://www.Wave.com 

À propos d’Orange StartUp Studio : 
Orange Startup Studio est le pôle d’innovation et d’entrepreneuriat de la Sonatel. À travers ses deux programmes phares, 1) le Startup Lab, qui accompagne les entreprises en phase de démarrage, et 2) Orange Fab, qui accélère la croissance des startups prêtes à se développer, le Studio soutient les entrepreneurs en leur donnant accès à l’expertise technique et sectorielle d’Orange, à des opportunités de collaboration, à un réseau de partenaires stratégiques et à une visibilité accrue. Sa mission est de promouvoir des solutions innovantes à fort impact économique et social au Sénégal et partout en Afrique. 

À propos d’InTouch Group :
Créée en 2014, InTouch avait pour ambition de devenir l’acteur panafricain de référence dans le domaine des paiements omnicanaux. Présente dans 27 pays, avec près de 4 000 entreprises clientes et un réseau de 60 000 TouchPoints à travers l’Afrique, elle a traité à ce jour près de 15 milliards de dollars pour ses clients. Elle propose des solutions de paiement sur mesure qui permettent à ses clients de gérer l’ensemble de leur chaîne de valeur transactionnelle. Ses clients et partenaires bénéficient de son réseau de distribution multinational pour la collecte des paiements et la distribution de leurs services. Elle a également constitué et actualise régulièrement un catalogue de plus de 400 services numériques qu’elle met à la disposition de ses clients. La société est en mesure d’effectuer des transactions et des règlements sur tout le continent. Pour en savoir plus sur InTouch, rendez-vous sur: https://www.InTouchGroup.net/

Media files

Posted on

Africa’s Business Heroes Announces 2025 Top 10 Finalists

Source: APO

The Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) (www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org) Prize Competition, a flagship philanthropic initiative of Alibaba Philanthropy, is proud to announce the Top 10 Finalists of 2025 following the highly contested Semi-Finals held in Dakar, Senegal on 10–11 September 2025. 

Selected from a pool of nearly 32,000 applications across the continent, the Top 20 Semi-Finalists advanced through multiple rigorous rounds of evaluation, including the Top 50 Round 2 interviews, extensive due diligence, and live pitch sessions before a distinguished panel of judges in Dakar.  

From this highly competitive group, the Top 10 Finalists have now been chosen, representing Africa’s most innovative and resilient entrepreneurs and embodying the spirit of ingenuity and impact that ABH celebrates each year. 

“Our Top 10 Finalists embody the best of African entrepreneurship—visionary leaders building bold, scalable businesses that create meaningful social and environmental impact. Their journeys showcase the ingenuity, grit, and diversity of Africa’s entrepreneurial talent, from healthtech and agritech to fintech, education, and sustainability. We are thrilled to see them advance to Kigali for the Grand Finale, where they will not only compete for funding but also inspire millions across the continent with their stories of resilience and innovation.”  — Zahra Baitie-Boateng, Africa Managing Director, ABH 

This year’s Semi-Finals marked a milestone: the first time ABH was hosted in a francophone country and the first in Senegal, underscoring the nation’s growing influence as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. 

With Senegal’s GDP growth at 8.6% and its upcoming role as host of the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the first on African soil, Dakar provided an inspiring stage for the competition. 

The 2025 Top 10 Finalists are: 

  1. Wyclife Onyango – BuuPass (Kenya) – Transport / Digital Ticketing 
  2. Siny Samba – Le Lionceau (Senegal) – FoodTech / Infant Nutrition 
  3. Mukasahaha Diane – DIKAM Ltd (Rwanda) – Textiles / Women & Youth Empowerment 
  4. Baraka Chijenga – Kilimo Fresh Foods Africa Limited (Tanzania) – AgriTech / Food Security 
  5. Janet Kuteli – Fortune Credit Limited (Kenya) – FinTech / Microfinance 
  6. Diana Orembe – NovFeed (Tanzania) – AgriTech / Biotech 
  7. Abraham Mbuthia – Uzapoint Technologies Limited (Kenya) – SME Tech / Digital Tools 
  8. Gohar Said– Suplyd (Egypt) – FoodTech / Supply Chain 
  9. Adriaan Kruger – nuvoteQ (South Africa) – HealthTech / Digital Solutions 
  10. Jean Lobe Lobe – Waspito (Cameroon) – HealthTech / Telemedicine 

These Heroes will now move on to the 7th ABH Grand Finale in Kigali, Rwanda on 12–13 December 2025, where they will compete for their share of US$1.5 million in grant funding. The Grand Prize winner will take home US$300,000, while each of the other finalists will receive at least US$100,000, along with access to mentorship, storytelling opportunities, and global networks to accelerate their growth. Interested attendees are encouraged to sign up for the Africa’s Business Heroes newsletter in order to receive news when registration opens up.  

The judging panel for the Semi-Finals included Hasan Haidar (Managing Director, PlusVC), Moulaye Taboure (CEO & Founder, ANKA, and former ABH Top 10 Hero), and Jason Pau (Vice President, Alibaba Group and Executive Director, Jack Ma Foundation). Together, they evaluated candidates on innovation, impact, scalability, and leadership, narrowing the field from 20 to 10. 

“As a former ABH Top 10 Hero, I know the transformative power of this platform. Returning as a judge is a true honor, and I am thrilled to congratulate this year’s Top 10 finalists. Their innovation, resilience, and impact are inspiring, and I look forward to welcoming them into the ABH community and supporting them as they scale their businesses and shape Africa’s entrepreneurial future,” said Moulaye Taboure, CEO and Founder of ANKA, and the first ABH alumnus to serve as a judge. 

The event was made possible thanks to the support of Alibaba Philanthropy and Senegalese sponsors Wave, Sonatel, and InTouch Group, alongside outreach partners including Haske Ventures, Impact Hub Dakar, SenStartup, Seedstars, and African Leadership University (ALU). 

Now in its 7th edition, the ABH Prize Competition continues to celebrate and empower Africa’s most promising entrepreneurs, amplifying their impact across the continent. 

For more information on the 2025 Top 10 Finalists, visit: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).

For media resources and press kit, visit:
ABH Top 10 Press Kit (https://apo-opa.co/46boGOB)

For media inquiries, please contact:
pr@africabusinessheroes.org 

About Alibaba Philanthropy: 
Alibaba Philanthropy is the social impact arm of Alibaba Group, committed to harnessing technology and partnerships for good. Its work spans rural revitalization, environmental protection, disaster relief, and empowering vulnerable communities. In Africa, Alibaba Philanthropy drives flagship initiatives such as Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH), supporting entrepreneurs who are building inclusive and sustainable growth across the continent. 

About Wave:   
Wave is on a mission to make Africa the first cashless continent. Wave Mobile Money offers radically inclusive and extremely affordable mobile financial solutions to millions of users across Africa. We build solutions that allow our customers an affordable way to save and transfer the money they need to achieve their dreams. We take pride in putting our customers first. You can learn more at: 
https://www.Wave.com/en 

About Orange StartUp Studio: 
Orange Startup Studio is the innovation and entrepreneurship hub of Sonatel. Through its two flagship programs 1) the Startup Lab, which incubates companies in the start-up phase and 2) Orange Fab, which accelerates growth-ready startups. The Studio supports entrepreneurs by giving them access to Orange’s technical and sectoral expertise, collaboration opportunities, a network of strategic partners and enhanced visibility. Its mission is to promote innovative solutions with high economic and social impact in Senegal and throughout Africa. 

About InTouch Group: 
Created in 2014, InTouch has had the ambition to be the pan-African player of reference for omnichannel payment. With presence in 27 countries, nearly 4,000 corporate clients, and a network of 60,000 TouchPoints across Africa, it has to date processed close to 15 billion dollars for its customers. It offers tailor-made payment solutions that allow its customers to manage their entire transactional value chain. Its customers and partners benefit from its multi-country distribution network for the collection of payments and the distribution of their services. It has also built and regularly updates a catalogue of more than 400 digital services that it makes available to its customers. The company is able to collect and make settlements across the continent.  To learn more about InTouch, visit: https://www.InTouchGroup.net/en 

Media files

.

Posted on

Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets Swedish Minister of International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, September 11, 2025

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met Thursday with HE the visiting Minister of International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade of the Kingdom of Sweden Benjamin Dousa.

Discussions during the meeting dealt with cooperation relations between the two countries and developments in the region, in addition to a number of topics of mutual interest.

During the meeting, HE the Swedish Minister of International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade expressed Sweden’s solidarity with the State of Qatar and its strong condemnation of the treacherous Israeli attack that targeted Doha, stressing that it is a flagrant violation of all international laws and norms and of the sovereignty of the State of Qatar.

He affirmed his country’s appreciation for the State of Qatar’s mediation efforts, highlighting the partnership in humanitarian and development work between the two countries.