Posts

Posted on

Emirates Rawabi and ReFarm Global unite to transform agriculture and landscaping in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Source: APO – Report:

In a landmark step toward transforming the UAE’s agricultural and food production landscape, Emirates Rawabi PSC (www.EmiratesRawabi.ae), one of the nation’s leading integrated agribusiness groups, has entered into a strategic partnership with ReFarm Global Investments LLC (https://ReFarmTheWorld.com), a pioneer in regenerative and circular sustainability technologies. This collaboration is set to revolutionize not only the UAE’s food production systems but also change the landscaping industry, establishing a new benchmark for sustainable urban and agricultural growth across the region.

Together, they will drive a new model of circular agribusiness, creating cost-efficient, carbon-conscious, and regenerative solutions to strengthen food security, enhance soil health, and drastically reduce water use across the UAE’s farming and food production systems. Beyond agriculture, this initiative will also extend its impact to urban environments and landscaped areas, supporting sustainable living and greener communities. In line with the leadership’s vision to make Dubai the most beautiful, advanced, and liveable city in the world, this collaboration will help develop a sustainable master plan for urban greening, improve irrigation efficiency, reduce the urban heat island effect, and enhance the sustainability of Dubai’s parks and green ecosystems. It will redefine the landscaping industry for future developments, promoting eco-efficient design, reduced water consumption, and the creation of resilient green spaces that align with the UAE’s long-term vision for a sustainable and regenerative future.

A partnership for the future of food

This collaboration combines Emirates Rawabi’s extensive expertise in dairy, poultry, feed, and food production with ReFarm’s breakthrough technologies in agricultural waste-to-value systems, regenerative soil enhancement, and air, soil, and water optimization.

The partnership aims to create a sustainable food ecosystem that regenerates rather than depletes, by improving soil vitality, optimizing resources, and ensuring food production that is both economically and environmentally efficient.

“Our mission is to restore the balance between nature, technology, and progress,” said Oliver Christof, CEO of ReFarm Global Investments LLC. “Through this collaboration, we will empower farmers, urban developers, and food producers with innovative and cost-efficient systems that strengthen food security, while preserving our most valuable resources like air, soil and water.”

“We share a common vision to make the UAE a global leader in regenerative and circular agriculture. Our technologies help farmers grow healthier crops with less water, improve soil quality, and create a new balance between productivity and preservation,” he added.

Sustainable farming solutions from soil to plate

“This partnership marks a key milestone in our sustainability journey. At Emirates Rawabi, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Through Emirates Rawabi Sustainable Solutions (ERSS), we operate a circular model integrating biogas, solar energy, and advanced water treatment, making our operations responsible, efficient, and resilient. We understand our responsibilities to the environment and also to our communities,” stated Mazen Al Refae, Group CEO of Emirates Rawabi PSC. 

“Together with ReFarm, we are implementing practical, scalable solutions that redefine sustainable farming from soil to plate and raise the standard for sustainable farming, strengthen circularity, and deliver measurable environmental impact.”

Through this partnership, Emirates Rawabi and ReFarm Global Investments will develop and implement pilot projects across the UAE that showcase circular agriculture in action from waste valorization to regenerative soil and water systems. The initiative supports the UAE’s national goals for food security, climate action, and sustainable development, positioning the country as a global example of how innovation can create a thriving, low-carbon organic agricultural future.

– on behalf of ReFarm Global Investments LLC.

Contact: 
Enzo Ploder
Enzo@refarmglobal.com

Media files

.

Posted on

One Month to Go to MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 – West Africa’s Premier Gathering for Inclusive Economic Development

Source: APO – Report:

.

With just one month to go until the highly anticipated MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition, regional and international stakeholders are gearing up for the MSGBC basin’s premier energy and mining event, taking place on December 8-10, 2025, at the Centre International de Conférences Abdou Diouf (CICAD) in Dakar, Senegal.

Held under the theme Energy, Petroleum and Mining in Africa: Synergy for Inclusive Economic Development, the 2025 edition will convene government leaders, global investors and industry executives to unlock a new era of growth, integration and value creation across Mauritania, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry.

Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region’s oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.MSGBCOilGasAndPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

A Landmark Year for Regional Production

This year’s event coincides with a milestone moment for the MSGBC basin, as first oil and gas production reshape the region’s economic trajectory. Senegal has officially achieved first oil from the deepwater Sangomar field, operated by Woodside Energy in partnership with the country’s state-owned Petrosen, marking a new chapter in national industrial development and job creation. Meanwhile, the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project, led by bp and Kosmos Energy, has reached its first gas milestone – positioning Senegal and Mauritania as pioneers in Africa’s offshore LNG frontier.

https://apo-opa.co/3XjJAFM

https://apo-opa.co/4qPgtb7

Further updates on the Yakaar-Teranga project and Bir Allah are expected to underscore the basin’s growing gas potential, cementing its status as one of the world’s most dynamic new energy frontiers.

Energy-Mining Nexus and Economic Diversification

Reflecting its 2025 theme, the conference will emphasize synergies between the energy and mining sectors to drive inclusive and sustainable development. Sessions will spotlight Mauritania’s green hydrogen leadership, with multi-billion-dollar projects spearheaded by partners such as HyDeal Ambition and CWP Global; Guinea-Conakry’s booming mining industry, led by major bauxite and iron ore developments like Simandou; and cross-sector infrastructure projects, including LNG export terminals, power interconnectors and cross-border pipelines.

As countries like The Gambia target 90% electricity access by end-2025, the conference will examine how regional integration and investment can fast-track universal energy access while supporting industrial growth.

High-Level Participation and Strategic Dialogue

Held under the high patronage of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of the Republic of Senegal, the event will feature a Ministerial Dialogue with top energy leaders from across the basin including Senegal’s Minister of Energy, Oil and Mines Birame Soulèye Diop; Mauritania’s Minister of Energy and Oil Mohamed Ould Khaled; The Gambia’s Minister of Petroleum and Energy Nani Juwara; Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Natural Resources Malam Sambu; and Guinea-Conakry’s Minister of Energy, Hydropower and Hydrocarbons Namory Camara.

In addition to high-level panels and policy discussions, the program includes a Technical Workshop Day on December 8 hosted by the Society of Petroleum Engineers Senegal, focused on gas field management, local content and production optimization. A CEO Assembly will gather C-suite executives, government officials and financiers for closed-door investment discussions.

Executives from Kosmos Energy, Woodside Energy, Africa Fortesa Corporation and S&P Global Commodity Insights are among those confirmed to share insights on project pipelines, regional competitiveness and global market outlooks.

Investment, Partnerships and Local Content

The MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition serves as a gateway for investors and policymakers to forge partnerships, accelerate local content development and advance Africa’s broader energy transition. Local capacity building will be a major focus, with institutions like the National Institute of Petroleum and Gas driving workforce development and technology transfer initiatives.

With one month to go, MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 stands ready to define the next phase of West Africa’s energy evolution – connecting leaders, catalyzing investment and shaping a sustainable, inclusive energy and mining future for the region.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Posted on

Emirates Rawabi et ReFarm Global transforment l’agriculture durable aux Émirats

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Dans une démarche décisive vers la transformation du paysage agricole et de production alimentaire des Émirats, Emirates Rawabi PSC (www.EmiratesRawabi.ae), l’un des principaux groupes agroalimentaires intégrés du pays, a conclu un partenariat stratégique avec ReFarm Global Investments LLC (https://ReFarmTheWorld.com), pionnier des technologies de durabilité régénérative et circulaire. Cette collaboration est destinée à révolutionner non seulement les systèmes de production alimentaire des Émirats, mais également à transformer le secteur de l’aménagement paysager, établissant ainsi une nouvelle référence pour la croissance urbaine et agricole durable dans toute la région.

Ensemble, les deux partenaires développeront un nouveau modèle d’agro-industrie circulaire, créant des solutions économiquement efficaces, respectueuses du climat et régénératives pour renforcer la sécurité alimentaire, améliorer la santé des sols et réduire drastiquement la consommation d’eau dans les systèmes agricoles et de production alimentaire des Émirats. Au-delà de l’agriculture, cette initiative étendra son impact aux environnements urbains et aux espaces paysagers, soutenant un mode de vie durable et des communautés plus vertes. Conformément à la vision des dirigeants visant à faire de Dubaï la ville la plus belle, avancée et agréable à vivre au monde, cette collaboration contribuera à développer un plan directeur durable pour la végétalisation urbaine, améliorera l’efficacité de l’irrigation, réduira l’effet d’îlot de chaleur urbain et renforcera la durabilité des parcs et des écosystèmes verts de Dubaï. Elle redéfinira le secteur de l’aménagement paysager pour les développements futurs, favorisant une conception éco-efficiente, une réduction de la consommation d’eau et la création d’espaces verts résilients qui s’alignent sur la vision à long terme des Émirats pour un avenir durable et régénératif.

Un partenariat pour l’avenir de l’alimentation

Cette collaboration combine l’expertise approfondie d’Emirates Rawabi dans les secteurs laitier, avicole, de l’alimentation animale et de la production alimentaire avec les technologies révolutionnaires de ReFarm en matière de valorisation des déchets agricoles, d’amélioration régénérative des sols et d’optimisation de l’air, du sol et de l’eau.

Le partenariat vise à créer un écosystème alimentaire durable qui régénère plutôt que d’épuiser, en améliorant la vitalité des sols, en optimisant les ressources et en garantissant une production alimentaire à la fois économiquement et écologiquement efficace.

« Notre mission est de restaurer l’équilibre entre la nature, la technologie et le progrès », déclare Oliver Christof, PDG de ReFarm Global Investments LLC. « Grâce à cette collaboration, nous donnerons aux agriculteurs, aux promoteurs urbains et aux producteurs alimentaires les moyens de disposer de systèmes innovants et économiquement viables qui renforcent la sécurité alimentaire, tout en préservant nos ressources les plus précieuses comme l’air, le sol et l’eau. »

« Nous partageons une vision commune de faire des Émirats un leader mondial en matière d’agriculture régénérative et circulaire. Nos technologies aident les agriculteurs à cultiver des récoltes plus saines avec moins d’eau, à améliorer la qualité des sols et à créer un nouvel équilibre entre productivité et préservation », ajoute-t-il.

Des solutions agricoles durables du sol à l’assiette

« Ce partenariat marque une étape clé dans notre parcours de durabilité. Chez Emirates Rawabi, la durabilité est au cœur de tout ce que nous faisons. Grâce à Emirates Rawabi Sustainable Solutions (ERSS), nous exploitons un modèle circulaire intégrant le biogaz, l’énergie solaire et un traitement avancé de l’eau, rendant nos opérations responsables, efficaces et résilientes. Nous comprenons nos responsabilités envers l’environnement et également envers nos communautés », affirme Mazen Al Refae, PDG du groupe Emirates Rawabi PSC.

« Avec ReFarm, nous mettons en œuvre des solutions pratiques et évolutives qui redéfinissent l’agriculture durable du sol à l’assiette et élèvent la norme de l’agriculture durable, renforcent la circularité et génèrent un impact environnemental mesurable. »

Dans le cadre de ce partenariat, Emirates Rawabi et ReFarm Global Investments développeront et mettront en œuvre des projets pilotes à travers les Émirats qui démontrent l’agriculture circulaire en action, de la valorisation des déchets aux systèmes régénératifs de sol et d’eau. L’initiative soutient les objectifs nationaux des Émirats en matière de sécurité alimentaire, d’action climatique et de développement durable, positionnant le pays comme un exemple mondial de la façon dont l’innovation peut créer un avenir agricole biologique prospère et à faible émission de carbone.

Distribué par APO Group pour ReFarm Global Investments LLC.

Contact :
Enzo Ploder
Enzo@refarmglobal.com

Media files

Posted on

Who speaks for the dead? Rethinking consent in ancient DNA research

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Victoria Gibbon, Professor in Biological Anthropology, Division of Clinical Anatomy and Biological Anthropology, University of Cape Town

Would you choose to have a part of your body live on after you died? How might your choice affect your relatives – or even your entire community?

The first is a question people face when they donate organs. The second comes up when they participate in genetic research. This is because DNA from even a single individual can reveal a web of relationships, even helping law enforcement to solve crimes committed by distant relatives they have never met. And as you continue to go back in time, the web becomes ever more tangled.

DNA is the unique genetic material of every living being on the planet. It can be “immortalised” for an unforeseeably long time in digital genetic libraries which contain the genomic information not only of that person, but also their ancestors and descendants.

Ancient DNA (referred to as aDNA) involves the study of genetic material from organisms that lived long ago, including humans. Geneticists, archaeologists, anthropologists and historians are using aDNA research to gain unprecedented insights into human history, but the knowledge benefits different groups of people unevenly. Also, it can be destructive because aDNA is normally extracted from small samples of bones or teeth. And who can give permission on behalf of people who lived many generations in the past? Once spoken for, what measures can be used to ensure their wishes continue to be honoured?

Africa is the ancient origin of all humans, as evidenced by having the highest human genetic diversity of any continent or region found today. In other words, all humans carry DNA from deeply rooted shared African ancestry. This makes African DNA (ancient and modern) a rich resource to draw on to understand what makes us human. However, understanding human variation and our origins involves research embedded within living communities and communities are the solution to conservation and the future of work in our disciplines.

Once it is decoded, the genetic information can last forever, so it could be used by anyone, for any purpose, for generations to come. Companies in the pharmaceutical industry, for example, could use it. As this science advances at an astonishing pace, ethical and legal frameworks guiding it struggle to keep up. No country has standards applying specifically to the field of aDNA. Therefore, ethical guidelines appropriate for this work need to protect past, present and future generations.

Consent is not yet universally mandated nor typically obtained in aDNA research, despite growing awareness of its importance over the past two decades. What is more, the concept of “informed consent” as developed in the clinical medical world is deeply rooted in a western idea of individual autonomy. It assumes that most medical decision-making occurs by individuals, rather than communities. And there are challenges applying it to people who are no longer alive.

That’s why, in our recent paper, we argue for using “informed proxy consent” or “relational autonomy consent” in human aDNA research. This is when living people through relation and/or relationship to a deceased person or people can make decisions and provide consent on their behalf, as a proxy or stand-in. The relationship could be through gender, race, religion, sociopolitical or sociocultural identities, or biological. DNA is also susceptible to data mining, machine learning and statistical analysis to uncover patterns and other valuable information. The deceased may be represented by living people who are affected by the research.

Different social, political, cultural and economic contexts make it impossible to create a universal set of specific guidelines. But four principles can apply: honesty, accountability, professionalism, and stewardship.

In our paper, we outline a set of considerations for obtaining proxy informed consent for the long deceased. A system of consent could enrich research by using it in potent new ways, empowering people affected by research, protecting researchers from ethical breaches and building long-term, equitable partnerships.

The solution

We propose that consent for the use of human aDNA in research should be a community-driven process. Instead of individuals signing off on behalf of the deceased, living people connected to the deceased persons, whether through ancestry, geography, cultural knowledge, or custodianship, act as representatives. This recognises that people are part of communities, and that authority to consent must reflect social and cultural context, not just individual choice.

This kind of approach was applied in South Africa’s Sutherland Nine Restitution, when nine San and Khoekhoe ancestors were taken from their graves in the 1920s and sent to the University of Cape Town for medical education and research. Almost 100 years later, they were finally brought home to their community.

In the Malawi Ancient Lifeways and Peoples Project, one way archaeological research results are communicated to community members is through site visits such as the one below, which included traditional authorities, local and national government officials, academics and students. Community consultation became so normalised through this work that some traditional leaders began to ask researchers how aDNA might aid their own goals of restitution and historical reconstruction.

Site visit as part of the Malawi Ancient Lifeways and Peoples project. Jessica Thompson

How it would work

One major lesson from studying the past is that things can change a lot. We do not expect that there will be clear cultural or biological continuity in every place or every time. And identifying appropriate descendant communities and determining who has the authority to consent can be complex. But local communities are often invested in research results, and they have a right to high-quality information about its consequences. Consent should be treated as a process, not a one-off event.

This begins in the planning stage, with researchers sharing a draft proposal and revising it based on community input. They must be transparent about who is funding the project, what techniques will be used and what the possible risks and benefits are. This is not only for science, but for the people connected to the deceased persons.

Clear communication is vital, and information should be provided in local languages and formats that are easy to understand. Communities should be given time to reflect without researchers present. Feedback must be taken seriously, and projects adapted accordingly. Crucially, communities need retain control over how data is stored, used and shared.

Finally, engagement should continue throughout the life of the project. Researchers should share findings before publication and return for fresh consent if using data in new ways.

We recognise that the process is demanding. It requires time and financial resources for pre-research consultation and ongoing engagement, which can be slower than academic expectations for rapid publication. But funders and research institutions need to understand that the time taken to build community partnerships with living descendant communities is an essential and enriching foundation for ethical research.

– Who speaks for the dead? Rethinking consent in ancient DNA research
– https://theconversation.com/who-speaks-for-the-dead-rethinking-consent-in-ancient-dna-research-265539

Posted on

How Nigeria’s grazing law also shapes land divisions and violence

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Victor Onyilor Achem, Researcher, University of Ibadan

When Nigeria’s Benue State Anti‑Open Grazing Law was passed in 2017, it brought hope that pastoralist herders would move to ranches, farmers would gain peace, and violent conflict between herders and farmers would ease.

The law banned the open grazing of livestock and required herders to establish ranches instead. It introduced fines, jail terms, and a livestock-guard task force to monitor compliance, shifting livestock management from communal routes to fenced ranches.

For decades, tensions between farming and herding communities across Nigeria’s Middle Belt have erupted into deadly violence.

As farmland shrinks and grazing routes disappear, competition over land, water and survival has intensified. Thousands have been killed, and more than two million people have been displaced. These conflicts are not just about cattle or crops; they are about identity, belonging and the struggle for power in a nation where religion and ethnicity often overlap with politics.

I study these dynamics as a sociologist whose work cuts through identity-driven conflicts and local peacebuilding. In a recently published study I show that the outcome of the Benue State Anti‑Open Grazing Law has been far more complicated than envisaged.

My research involved 40 interviews and focus groups in Benue’s most affected districts. It found that while the law against open grazing reduced crop destruction, it also deepened mistrust and exclusion. Farmers saw it as protection; herders saw it as punishment.

Based on my findings, I argue that the crisis is a governance failure amplified by politicised faith narratives and elite opportunism. A local land-use dispute has been reimagined internationally as evidence that Nigeria is fracturing along religious lines. Unless policy becomes more inclusive, this perception could grow, risking new waves of division and violence.

Why the law faltered

The anti-open grazing law in Benue was intended to curb the roaming of cattle across farmlands, reduce conflict, and protect sedentary farming communities. But the design overlooked key issues: it expected herders – many of them nomadic, landless and low-capital – to invest in ranches with minimal support.

Meanwhile, the enforcement architecture exhibited weakness. Livestock guards lacked resources, and coordination between Benue state government and the federal government broke down, leading to a strained relationship between levels of government.

The challenge is that agriculture and policing fall under shared jurisdiction in Nigeria. The state could legislate but not easily enforce without federal backing. The federal government, led at the time by a Fulani president, saw the law as discriminatory, while Benue leaders viewed federal hesitation as betrayal. The standoff left the law largely unenforced.

Even when enforced, the law punished mobility but offered scant alternatives. My field data showed herders feeling criminalised, farmers feeling abandoned, and both sides interpreting the law through existential lenses. Both farmers and herders saw it as a struggle for survival, one group fighting to defend ancestral land, the other to preserve livelihood and identity.

When land becomes identity

In contexts like central Nigeria, land is more than soil: it is identity, history and power. Farmers, mostly Christian crop growers, view the grazing law as an instrument of protection. Herders, often Fulani and Muslim, perceive it as a threat to their way of life. The herders have followed transhumant grazing routes for centuries, moving with the seasons. Their mobility predates Nigeria’s borders and remains vital to their culture and economy.

When open grazing is punished, and when governance fails to bridge the divide, disputes over pasture and farmland become charged with religious and ethnic meaning.

In this terrain, the narrative of a “religious genocide” gains traction, a narrative that coincides with the US designation of Nigeria as a country that fails to protect religious freedom. US president Donald Trump threatened military action unless Nigeria “stops the killing of Christians”.

But the truth on the ground is more nuanced. Analysts point out that both Christian and Muslim communities have suffered repeated attacks across different regions. Conflict over land, pastoral mobility and weak governance often overlap with religious fault lines, but are driven by deeper forces like land scarcity, climate stress, and weak governance. Religion explains the rhetoric, not the root cause.

How grazing policy and faith conflict connect

The grazing law’s failure matters because it becomes part of the faith conflict story. When the state is seen to favour one set of communities, the other sees exclusion.

When violence between farmers and herders is portrayed in religious terms, such as “Christians under siege” and “Muslim herders as invaders”, the law meant to protect becomes a symbol of division.

In other words, the anti-grazing law was never only about cattle. It became a law about belonging, rights, who gets to claim the land, and whose identity is recognised.

The US reaction exacerbates this division by implying that one group is the victim and the other is the perpetrator. That framing may help some voices gain global attention, but it can also harden local fault lines.

What must change

If Nigeria and its states are to prevent this conflict from becoming a faith-war, several things must shift:

  • Inclusive policy-making: Pastoralists must be genuinely part of policy design, not just regulated. Mobility, traditional rights and modern ranching must be reconciled.

  • Stronger federal-state cooperation: Nigeria’s constitution splits agricultural and policing powers. States can legislate but depend on federal agencies for enforcement. Clearer coordination and funding are essential.

  • Narrative formation: Policymakers, media and international actors must avoid reducing complex land and livelihood struggles into simple faith wars. Accurate data, inclusive language and community voices matter.

  • Trust building at the local level: Mechanisms such as locally led peace committees, shared grazing agreements and conflict-sensitive land-use planning have to be empowered.

Why it matters globally

Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country, a multi-faith, multi-ethnic democracy, and a test case for how modern states negotiate change, tradition and identity.

The US decision to label Nigeria a “country of particular concern” has grabbed headlines, but the core of the issue lies in how Nigerians farm, herd, travel, claim land, and build peace.

If Nigeria fails to turn its land and livelihood fault lines into inclusive governance, then the risk is not simply more violence, it is a deeper fracture in which laws become weapons of identity, and international declarations feed local fears.

Conflict won’t stop because rhetoric picks up speed; it will stop when policy, law and identity converge in a way that recognises everyone’s belonging.

In the end, the question is not simply whether more laws are passed or whether the US sanctions Nigeria. It is whether communities in Nigeria feel protected or whether laws and external pressure leave them feeling excluded.

– How Nigeria’s grazing law also shapes land divisions and violence
– https://theconversation.com/how-nigerias-grazing-law-also-shapes-land-divisions-and-violence-268923

Posted on

Canon showcases Nigerian Filmmaker Nora Awolowo’s creative brilliance with exclusive screenings of Racket Queen in Lagos

Source: APO – Report:

  •  Canon celebrates Nigerian filmmaker Nora Awolowo’s creative excellence with the exclusive Lagos screening of Racket Queen, shot entirely on the Canon EOS C400.
  • The event highlighted Canon’s support for Africa’s filmmaking community, featuring dual screenings, networking sessions, and the soft launch of the EOS C50.

Canon (www.Canon-CNA.com), a leader in imaging technology, hosted an exclusive movie screening of Racket Queen in Lagos, a short film by acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker Nora Awolowo, shot entirely on the Canon EOS C400 cinema camera. The production stands as a testament to Nora’s creative excellence, visual storytelling finesse, and technical mastery, with her work speaking powerfully for itself.

The Canon EOS C400, designed for professional filmmakers, played a pivotal role in capturing the film’s striking visuals and emotional depth, showcasing Canon’s ongoing commitment to supporting the region’s creative community with advanced imaging tools.

The morning media screening brought together journalists from across arts, culture, entertainment, business, and technology publications, providing an exclusive first look at Racket Queen and deeper insight into Nora’s filmmaking approach. Later in the evening, Canon hosted an industry screening for filmmakers, peers, and Canon’s creative network, an engaging event and networking session celebrating collaboration, innovation, and shared passion for storytelling.

Both events also featured a soft launch of Canon’s new EOS C50, an entry-level cinema camera designed to empower emerging filmmakers. Compact yet powerful, the C50 expands Canon’s professional cinema lineup, making high-quality production more accessible to new creators.

Speaking at the event, Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director for Canon Central and North Africa, said: “At Canon, we believe in the power of storytelling and the importance of equipping creators with the right tools to express their vision. Our collaboration with Nora on Racket Queen reflects how technology and artistry come together to elevate filmmaking in Africa. We’re proud to continue empowering creators and building a thriving creative community across the region.”

Canon’s collaboration with Awolowo aligns with its Innovation, Customer, and Employee Experience (ICE) strategy, which focuses on innovation, customer empowerment, and long-term partnerships. By enabling filmmakers with cutting-edge imaging technology, Canon reinforces its position as the go-to brand for professional videography in Nigeria and across Africa.

About The Racket Queen

The Racket Queen follows the journey of a young girl who discovers her passion for tennis and, with her mother’s support, pursues her dream of becoming a star. Along the way she encounters, triumphs, setbacks, and sacrifices. The film features performances by Pamilerin Ayodeji, Tunbosun Aiyedehin, Kayode Jnr Ojuolape, and Folu Storms.

Nora Awolowo, Filmmaker & Cinematographer reflecting on her experience, added: “Working with Canon is always a creative partnership built on trust and innovation. The EOS C400 gave me the flexibility and technical precision I needed to bring Racket Queen to life. I’m proud of what we achieved together and grateful for Canon’s continued support for filmmakers like myself.”

Canon’s Commitment to African Filmmaking

Canon’s collaboration with Awolowo reflects its long-term commitment to African filmmaking. Through partnerships, training programmes, and access to professional equipment, Canon continues to empower the next generation of storytellers and strengthen its role in the region’s creative economy.

– 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/49j6Gnn) – ‘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

African Energy Chamber (AEC) Announces Working Visit to Senegal Amid Regional Energy Transformation

Source: APO – Report:

.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/)– the voice of the African energy sector – will embark on a working visit to Senegal on 12-14 November, aimed at strengthening partnerships, attracting new investment and supporting the continued growth of the regional energy sector. Led by Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk, the AEC will engage in meetings with senior government officials, regulators and private sector leaders, exploring new avenues for collaboration and spotlighting emerging investment opportunities across the broader MSGBC energy industry.  

The working visit comes ahead of the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 Conference – taking place in Dakar, Senegal from December 8-10. Held under the patronage of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of the Republic of Senegal, the event unites global investors and regional governments, facilitating capital and technology transfer and creating synergies for inclusive economic development. By showcasing project milestones, offering insight into policy reforms and outlining emerging investment opportunities in oil, gas renewable energy and mining, the event affirms the MSGBC region’s position as a hub for energy and mineral development.  

The MSGBC region is entering a period of significant transformation, fueled by the start of offshore hydrocarbon projects and the rise in new exploration and production opportunities. Senegal has been at the forefront of this transformation, with the start of the Sangomar oilfield development in 2024 and the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG project in 2025. The country is now looking toward GTA phase two while seeking partners to advance the Yakaar-Teranga gas project. To further support investment, the country announced that it is reviewing its oil and gas codes ahead of MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025, with revisions focusing on transparency, local content and ensuring revenues benefit Senegalese citizens.  

“Senegal represents one of Africa’s most promising energy success stories. From world-class gas developments to bold energy transition policies, the country is setting a benchmark for how to attract investment, create local opportunities and foster inclusive growth. Through our working visit, we aim to deepen collaboration with Senegalese partners and ensure that the MSGBC region continues to be a driving force in shaping Africa’s energy future,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.  

The MSGBC region’s energy opportunities transcend Senegal, with regional neighbors making a strong play for energy investment. On the back of the start of production at GTA, Mauritania is turning towards the next phase of its energy development, seeking foreign investment in gas projects while advancing green hydrogen developments. The country is currently seeking partners to advance the development of the BirAllah gas project, home to an estimated 80 trillion cubic feet of reserves, and has recently launched a tender for the development of a 230 MW gas-to-power project. By 2040, the country aims to produce up to 10 million tons of green hydrogen per year, with advancements underway at the 30 GW AMAN and 10 GW Project Nour developments.  

Guinea Bissau is also making a play for oil and gas discoveries, with energy major Chevron recently securing operatorship of two oil exploration blocks. The company gains a stake in Blocks 5B and 6B, with plans to leverage existing seismic data to assess options for testing the petroleum system. The country is also working towards improving oil and gas legislation, with a cooperation agreement signed with Azerbaijan in place. Guinea Conakry is finalizing terms for a 22-block licensing round under efforts to attract investment in frontier exploration blocks. While the country is not yet a producer of oil and gas, efforts are underway to turn this trend around. The establishment of a National Seismic Data Visualization Center in partnership with SLB and TGS supports exploration by de-risking and incentivizing drilling.  

Meanwhile, The Gambia is in the process of establishing a new petroleum exploration, development and production bill, striving to enhance transparency and entice spending. These efforts not only strengthen the region’s investment attractiveness but affirm its position as a rising player in global oil and gas markets. The AEC’s working visit will not only spotlight Senegalese energy opportunities but the broader MSGBC region. By facilitating dialogue between policymakers and investors, the visit – and upcoming MGSBC conference – will advance energy projects by encouraging new entries into the regional market.  

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Posted on

AliExpress lance ses soldes du 11.11 et du Black Friday avec des prix imbattables, des offres exclusives pour les Petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) et des solutions localisées

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


AliExpress (www.AliExpress.com), la plateforme mondiale de vente au détail en ligne, lance ses soldes très attendues du 11.11 et du Black Friday, combinant le plus grand événement d’achat en ligne de la plateforme à des outils qui répondent aux attentes des consommateurs et des PME sur tout le continent africain.

Du 11 novembre au 3 décembre, la campagne 11.11 et Black Friday présente de nouveaux outils de vente en gros ainsi que des remises incroyables allant jusqu’à 80 % sur une large gamme de produits sur AliExpress. L’optimisation des paiements locaux dans neuf pays et l’accélération des expéditions créent l’expérience de shopping ultime, et les offres spécifiques aux PME permettent aux entrepreneurs africains de s’imposer beaucoup plus facilement dans le commerce transfrontalier.

« L’Afrique connaît l’une des évolutions les plus passionnantes du commerce électronique, avec une demande croissante des consommateurs et une véritable énergie entrepreneuriale », déclare Bonnie Zhao, directrice générale d’AliExpress Africa. « Ce qui rend ces soldes du 11.11 et du Black Friday uniques, c’est notre capacité à répondre à tous les segments de ce marché, qu’il s’agisse de familles qui achètent des produits abordables ou de petites entreprises qui s’approvisionnent dans le monde entier pour servir leurs communautés locales. Le renforcement de nos paiements sécurisés et de nos outils d’approvisionnement garantissent la fluidité de l’expérience client. » AliExpress soutiendra les acheteurs et les grossistes africains grâce à des fonctionnalités sur mesure, comblant ainsi le fossé entre les chaînes d’approvisionnement mondiales et l’un des marchés régionaux les plus dynamiques au monde.

Pour les consommateurs : un shopping abordable avec une commodité locale

Les soldes du 11.11 et du Black Friday offrent aux consommateurs l’accès à d’importantes réductions dans des catégories populaires comme l’électronique grand public, les smartphones, la décoration intérieure, la beauté et la mode. Avec ses Bundle Deals et son Bulk Saver Hub, AliExpress s’adresse aux acheteurs africains soucieux de leur famille et des prix en leur offrant d’importantes récompenses en cashback et des remises pour les achats en gros.

AliExpress résout les problèmes de paiement traditionnellement liés au commerce électronique grâce à l’intégration avec des plateformes locales de paiement électronique, permettant des transactions en monnaie locale pour les acheteurs sur neuf marchés africains, notamment l’Algérie, l’Égypte, l’Éthiopie, le Kenya, le Maroc, le Nigeria, la Tanzanie, l’Afrique du Sud et le Ghana. Ces solutions éliminent les complexités de conversion de devises, assurant une expérience d’achat facile et inclusive pour les populations bancarisées et non bancarisées.

La vitesse de livraison a également été optimisée au cours de l’année écoulée. Les consommateurs de pays comme l’Algérie, l’Afrique du Sud, le Ghana, le Nigeria et le Kenya verront leurs commandes livrées en seulement 10 jours sur certains articles, tandis que le service Choice d’AliExpress garantit une livraison porte-à-porte en un délai de 20 jours. Pour rendre les soldes encore plus exceptionnelles, les primo-acheteurs peuvent profiter de la livraison gratuite et des rabais de bienvenue sur les produits participants, abaissant ainsi les obstacles au commerce électronique mondial.

Pour les PME : autonomiser les entrepreneurs de l’Afrique

AliExpress sait que plus de 50 millions de PME alimentent l’économie africaine, et les soldes du 11.11 et du Black Friday apportent un soutien inégalé à ces entreprises. La plateforme AliExpress Business élimine les quantités minimales de commande pour permettre aux entrepreneurs de tester de petits lots de produits à succès, notamment dans les segments électronique, textiles et accessoires automobiles, contribuant ainsi à contrôler les coûts et à réduire les risques d’inventaire. L’inclusion d’outils d’IA fournit des données critiques, telles que des tendances de la demande, des prévisions de produits et du matériel marketing localisé, pour que les PME se développent en personnalisant les stocks et les promotions.

Alors que le commerce social est en plein essor en Afrique, l’interface One-Shop permet aux entrepreneurs de partager facilement des catalogues de produits sur WhatsApp, Instagram et Facebook, en les aidant à toucher les clients locaux via des canaux de vente communautaires.

« Les entrepreneurs de ce continent ne se contentent pas de réaliser des achats : ils construisent des entreprises, des communautés et des avenirs solides », déclare Zhao. « Les outils déployés par AliExpress sont conçus pour aider les PME à relever des défis tels que la fragmentation de la logistique ou des systèmes de paiement tout en tirant parti des opportunités mondiales. AliExpress fait du commerce mondial une possibilité, même pour les plus petites entreprises. »

La vision d’AliExpress pour l’Afrique

AliExpress a pris des mesures stratégiques pour générer des opportunités de croissance du commerce électronique à travers l’Afrique. Les récents partenariats gouvernementaux, de paiement et logistiques reflètent l’engagement à long terme d’AliExpress à soutenir les cadres pour le commerce numérique tout en investissant dans l’optimisation des infrastructures. En tant que pionnière des solutions d’e-commerce localisées, la plateforme continue d’innover avec des mises à niveau de services et des partenariats logistiques qui rationalisent les services pour les consommateurs et les entreprises.

Bénéficiez d’offres imbattables dès le 11 novembre

Les consommateurs et les entrepreneurs peuvent profiter des soldes du 11.11 et du Black Friday dès le 11 novembre via l’application AliExpress ou le site web (www.AliExpress.com). Les PME peuvent accéder aux fonctionnalités d’AliExpress Business sur  https://InBusiness.AliExpress.com, notamment des prix en vrac, des informations basées sur l’IA et des outils de revendeur pour faire de cette saison de shopping leur plus grande réussite à ce jour.

Distribué par APO Group pour AliExpress.

Contact avec les médias :
Scarlett Zhao
scarlett.zp@alibaba-inc.com

Julia Hutton-Potts
j.hutton-potts@alibaba-inc.com

À propos d’AliExpress :
Créé en 2010, AliExpress est une plateforme de commerce électronique B2C qui permet aux consommateurs d’acheter directement auprès des fabricants et des distributeurs en Chine et dans le monde entier. Outre la version en anglais, la plateforme AliExpress est également disponible dans 15 autres langues. AliExpress fait partie du groupe Alibaba International Digital Commerce.

Posted on

AliExpress Launches 11.11 and Black Friday Sale to Deliver Unmatched Deals, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME) Empowerment, and Localized Solutions

Source: APO


.

AliExpress (www.AliExpress.com), the global online retail marketplace, has kicked off its highly anticipated 11.11 and Black Friday Sale, combining the platform’s biggest online shopping event with tools that empower consumers and small businesses alike across the African continent.

Running from November 11 to December 3, this year’s 11.11 and Black Friday campaign introduces new wholesale tools alongside incredible discounts, up to 80% off on a wide range of products across AliExpress. Enhanced local payments in nine countries and faster shipping create the ultimate shopping experience, while SME-specific features make it much easier for African entrepreneurs to succeed in cross-border commerce.

“Africa is home to one of the most exciting e-commerce growth stories, with rapidly rising consumer demand and entrepreneurial energy,” said Bonnie Zhao, General Manager at AliExpress Africa. “What makes this 11.11 and Black Friday Sale unique is our ability to cater to every segment of this market—whether they are families shopping for affordable products or small businesses sourcing globally to serve their local communities. Our upgrades in secure payments and sourcing tools ensure the customer experience is seamless.” AliExpress will support African shoppers and wholesalers with tailored features, bridging the gap between global supply chains and one of the world’s most dynamic regional markets.

For Consumers: Affordable Shopping with Local Convenience

The 11.11 and Black Friday Sale brings consumers access to steep discounts across popular categories like consumer electronics, smartphones, home decor, beauty and fashion. With its Bundle Deals and Bulk Saver Hub, AliExpress caters to Africa’s family-oriented, price-conscious shoppers by offering significant cashback rewards and discounts for bulk purchases.

AliExpress solves traditional e-commerce payment challenges through integration with trusted local e-payment platforms, enabling smooth local currency transactions for shoppers in nine African markets, including Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa and Ghana. These solutions eliminate currency conversion complexities, ensuring an easy and inclusive shopping experience for banked and unbanked populations.

Delivery speed has also been optimized in the past year. Consumers in countries like Algeria, South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya can expect orders to be delivered in as little as 10 days on select items, while AliExpress’s Choice service guarantees door-to-door fulfilment within 20 days. To make the sales even more attractive, first-time shoppers can take advantage of free shipping and welcome discounts on participating products, lowering the barrier to experiencing global e-commerce.

For Small Businesses: Empowering Africa’s Entrepreneurs

AliExpress understands that over 50 million SMEs power Africa’s economy, and the 11.11 and Black Friday Sale provides unparalleled support for these businesses. The AliExpress Business platform eliminates minimum order quantities (MOQs), allowing entrepreneurs to experiment with small batches of trending products like electronics, textiles, and automotive accessories, helping to control costs and reduce inventory risks. Additionally, the inclusion of AI tools provides critical data, such as market demand trends, product forecasts, and localized marketing materials, enabling SMEs to grow by customizing inventory and promotions.

With social commerce booming in Africa, the One-Shop interface empowers entrepreneurs by enabling easy sharing of curated product catalogs on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, helping them to reach local customers through community-driven sales channels.

“Entrepreneurs on this continent are not just buying—they are building strong businesses, communities, and futures,” said Zhao. “The tools introduced by AliExpress are designed to help SMEs overcome challenges like fragmented logistics or payment systems while tapping into global opportunities. AliExpress makes global commerce a possibility for even the smallest enterprises.”

AliExpress’s Vision for Africa

AliExpress has taken strategic steps to unlock e-commerce growth opportunities across Africa. Recent government, payment and logistic partnerships reflect AliExpress’s long-term commitment to supporting frameworks for digital trade while investing in infrastructure optimization. As a pioneer in localized e-commerce solutions, the platform continues to innovate with service upgrades and logistics partnerships that streamline services for consumers and businesses alike.

Unlock Unbeatable Deals Starting November 11

Consumers and entrepreneurs can begin shopping the 11.11 and Black Friday Sale from November 11 through the AliExpress app or website (www.AliExpress.com). SMEs can access AliExpress Business features at https://InBusiness.AliExpress.com, including bulk pricing, AI-driven insights, and reseller tools to make this shopping season their most successful yet.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AliExpress.

Media Contact:
Scarlett Zhao
scarlett.zp@alibaba-inc.com

Julia Hutton-Potts
j.hutton-potts@alibaba-inc.com

About AliExpress:
Launched in 2010, AliExpress is a business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce platform that allows consumers to buy directly from manufacturers and distributors in China and around the world. In addition to the English version, the AliExpress platform is also available in 15 other languages. AliExpress is part of the Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group.

Posted on

SA advances with first locally manufactured oral cholera vaccine trials

Source: Government of South Africa

Biovac has received approval from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) to begin clinical trials for its oral cholera vaccine.

This is a significant development that could position South Africa as the only country in Africa to manufacture this life-saving vaccine entirely in-house.

Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi described the start of clinical trials for the country’s first fully manufactured cholera vaccine as a historic milestone, not just for Biovac and South Africa, but for the entire continent.

“The ability to manufacture a life-saving vaccine from start to finish right here at home strengthens our national capacity to respond swiftly to potential outbreaks and enhances Africa’s self-reliance in vaccine production. This milestone aligns with the government’s vision of ensuring health security and universal access to essential medicines,” said Motsoaledi.

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, said government is committed to promoting local manufacturing, facilitating technology transfer, and commercialising scientific discoveries. 

These efforts are essential not only for public health but also for job creation, skills development, and industrial growth.

“Not only for the benefit of South Africa, but for Africa,” said Gina. 

Motsoaledi and Gina addressed the launch of South Africa’s first locally manufactured vaccine in over 50 years. The event took place at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto, Johannesburg, on Tuesday.

The Ministers said the number of cholera outbreaks has been growing in Africa, coinciding with repeated shortages of cholera vaccines, leaving exposed communities vulnerable to unnecessary disease and deaths. 

Cholera, a preventable disease, can be fatal during outbreaks if treatments, such as oral rehydration therapy, antibiotics and vaccines to curb the spread, are unavailable. 

The Biovac vaccine development project receives support from the Gates Foundation, Open Philanthropy, the Wellcome Trust in the United Kingdom, and the ELMA Vaccines and Immunisation Foundation, among others.

The African Union (AU) has set a target for 60% of all routine vaccines used in Africa to be manufactured on the continent by 2030, a major advancement from today’s level of less than 1%. 

Phase 1 of Biovac’s oral cholera vaccine clinical trial was initiated at the University of the Witwatersrand’s Perinatal HIV Research Unit (Wits’ PHRU), a renowned and established clinical trial site, in October 2025.

The first phase will focus on testing safety in adults, before proceeding to a further Phase 3 of the clinical trial, assessing the immunogenicity, which indicates that the vaccine can prevent cholera through antibodies developed in patients who receive the vaccine.  

The Phase 3 trial will be conducted at five sites, two in Johannesburg, two in Durban, and one in East London. 

Coordinated by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), this clinical trial also highlights South Africa’s ability to conduct trials for multiple types of products.  

If the vaccine is considered safe in the initial trial phase, a larger Phase 3 study will compare the Biovac oral cholera vaccine with Euvichol Plus, a cholera vaccine produced by EuBiologics.

Euvichol Plus is one of several oral cholera vaccines that are currently prequalified by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Depending on the trial outcomes, the vaccine could be approved and ready for use in Africa in 2028 and globally by 2028/29.    

CEO of Biovac, Dr Morena Makhoana, said the organisation is proud to be manufacturing this vaccine entirely in South Africa.

“If the trials are successful, South Africa will become the first country on the continent to produce a cholera vaccine. This development addresses a critical, life-saving need, given the ongoing global shortages of the vaccine amid recurring cholera outbreaks,” said Makhoana. 

Biovac is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cape Town, established in 2003 as a result of a collaboration between the government and private sector aimed at revitalising local vaccine production capabilities.

SAMRC Chief Scientific Officer and Distinguished Professor at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Wits University, Professor Glenda Gray, said: “We are honoured to lead the clinical trials for the oral cholera vaccine, a historical landmark for our country and a vital step in strengthening our country’s ability to respond to infectious diseases.” 

She said they were committed to ensuring that these trials are conducted in full compliance with good clinical practice guidelines, with the highest regard for the safety, care, and protection of all participants. – SAnews.gov.za