2023 in Review: International Digital Post Network Limited: A PotentialUnicorn
2023 has been an awesome year of rough economic challenges of tough times.
Inspite of the odds against me, my duly incorporated International Digital Post Network Limited (IDPNL) has been able to remain totally debt free and has never borrowed since the incorporation in September, 2009.
Personally, the total amount I have owed in my life so far is $600 (six hundred dollars) only.
International Digital Post Network Limited has been a success story with highly valuable assets and products and international partnerships in the digital media industry, blockchain, mobility, e-commerce and entertainment industry making it a potential Unicorn by the total valuation of the assets, products and partnerships for the Big Picture of the future of Nollywood and the Nigerian film industry and creative economy.
IDPNL has partnerships with companies in America, India and Singapore in the global film industry in film acquisition, distribution, production and exhibition.
I am still having 100% ownership of the International Digital Post Network Limited and the subsidiaries. Because, I am the still the sole funder of the company.
Thanks to Almighty God for great is His faithfulness, goodness and mercies and loving kindness.
I trust Almighty God for the best in 2024.
Cheers! Best regards, Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima, The Founder/CEO, International Digital Post Network Limited, King of Kings Books International, Screen Outdoor Open Air Cinema, SOOAC Publisher/Editor, NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series
AFRIFF and MTN Join Forces to Empower African Filmmakers and Promote Indigenous Content
The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is thrilled to announce its groundbreaking partnership with MTN, the largest telecommunications company in Africa. This strategic collaboration aims to revolutionize the African film industry, opening up new avenues for filmmakers and creating opportunities for the promotion and distribution of indigenous content.
AFRIFF, widely recognized as the largest annual film festival in Africa, has been at the forefront of showcasing exceptional African cinema and nurturing emerging talent for over a decade. With an impressive array of films submitted each year, the festival has become a beacon of creativity, diversity, and cultural exchange in the African film landscape.
MTN, with its extensive network and largest aggregation of subscribers, is committed to fostering the growth of the African entertainment industry following the indigenous 2.0 theme. This visionary approach seeks to empower African players in the film industry by providing them with unprecedented opportunities for Global exposure and distribution.
Through this partnership, AFRIFF and MTN aim to bridge the gap between talented African filmmakers and a wider audience. As the streaming landscape is dominated by global streamers. Many deserving films from Africa struggle to find a platform for their voices to be heard. This collaboration will address this critical challenge by offering a dedicated channel where African filmmakers can showcase their work to millions of viewers across the continent.
The benefits of this partnership extend beyond the filmmakers themselves. By amplifying African voices and promoting indigenous content, AFRIFF and MTN will contribute to the preservation and celebration of African culture and stories. This strategic endeavor will create economic opportunities for local talent, boost tourism, and enhance Africa's global reputation as a hub of artistic excellence.
Speaking about the partnership, the Founder of AFRIFF, Chioma Ude expressed her excitement, stating, "We are thrilled to join forces with MTN, a leader in the telecommunications industry. This collaboration will empower African filmmakers, providing them with the means to reach a broader audience and ensuring that their incredible stories are heard. Together, we will redefine the African film landscape and foster the growth of the industry."
Our indigenous 2.0 global aligns perfectly with MTN’s mission, and together, we will unlock the immense potential of African filmmakers. By leveraging our extensive network and resources, we will pave way for a more inclusive and vibrant African content. On her own part, the Chief Digital Officer of MTN, Aisha Umar-Mumuni said:
“Digital entertainment has become an integral part of our day to day lives, and the growth in the use of smartphones and digital services has compelled the need to provide digital solutions and partner with organizations like AFRIFF, to distribute indigenous African content, making them accessible regardless of geographical locations. And we are well-positioned to lead the charge as the biggest ICT operator in Africa, committed to using technology to promote the continent on the global stage.”
As AFRIFF and MTN embark on this groundbreaking partnership, they invite filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts to join them in this exciting new chapter for African cinema. Together, they will champion the power of storytelling and elevate the voices of African filmmakers to new heights.
About AFRIFF:
The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is the largest annual film festival in Africa, dedicated to showcasing exceptional African cinema and nurturing emerging talent. With a diverse range of films from across the continent, AFRIFF provides a platform for cultural exchange and celebrates the rich heritage of African storytelling.
About MTN:
MTN is the largest telecommunications company in Africa, with a wide-reaching network and the largest aggregation of subscribers. Committed to empowering African players in the entertainment industry.
African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 Africa-Europe Roundtable to Discuss the Competing Priorities and Potential Collaboration
During African Energy Week 2023, a spotlight will be placed on the collaborative efforts between Africa and Europe in achieving global energy security while facilitating a just transition
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 18, 2023/ -- The global energy landscape is at a crossroads, with Europe and Africa facing distinct yet intertwined challenges in their pursuit of sustainable development. As the African Energy Week (AEW) approaches, the stage is set for a critical discussion on the delicate balancing act required to harmonize Europe's renewable energy aspirations with Africa's drive towards oil and gas-powered industrialization. At the upcoming Africa-Europe Roundtable Discussion to be held at AEW - scheduled for October 16-20 in Cape Town - participants will delve into the complexities of these competing priorities, highlighting the need for collaboration and innovative solutions.
Historically, Africa has been heavily reliant on external financial assistance for its energy projects, rendering it susceptible to shifts in global policies and investment trends. While foreign aid has facilitated advancements in renewable energy, Africa's untapped oil and gas reserves, comprising a staggering 620 trillion cubic feet of gas and 125.3 billion barrels of oil, hold the potential to revolutionize the continent's energy landscape and spur sustainable economic growth. The imperative here is to transition away from aid dependency towards commercial relationships that enable Africa to harness its own energy potential.
In recent times, Europe has shown a strong commitment to transitioning towards renewable energy sources. This shift is driven by growing environmental concerns and the global push for decarbonization. A notable example is the EU's Africa-EU Green Energy Initiative, a forward-thinking framework with three key objectives: improving access to affordable and environmentally friendly energy, promoting investment in renewable energy projects, and encouraging community involvement while ensuring financial backing. While investing in renewable energy in Africa is crucial for the continent's decarbonization goals, Africa also remains determined to utilize its substantial oil and gas reserves to drive economic growth and industrialization. This contrast in priorities has created a distinct challenge, demanding a considerate and strategic approach to achieve mutual progress while effectively tackling energy security and climate change issues.
Amidst the turmoil of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a notable paradigm shift occurred as Europe found itself compelled to explore alternative energy sources, such as African gas and coal imports, underlining the intricate interdependence of these continents and its energy resources. This scenario reinforces the imperative for open dialogues and cooperative strategies to address shared energy challenges.
While Europe's emphasis on renewable projects is undeniable, the partnership between European companies and African counterparts has been pivotal in advancing oil and gas initiatives. Collaborative efforts such as TotalEnergies' involvement in the Egina deepwater field in Nigeria and Eni's projects across several African nations, notably Mozambique’s Coral Sul, exemplify the positive impact of such partnerships. Beyond mere energy production, these ventures contribute to job creation, skills development, and economic empowerment, aligning with Africa's drive for industrialization.
Meanwhile, nations like Tanzania and Mozambique are positioning themselves as vital players in Europe's search for alternative gas sources. With visionary offshore projects and forthcoming liquefied natural gas (LNG) initiatives, these countries are poised to cater to Europe's energy demands in the near future. This emerging synergy reinforces the importance of Africa's resources in Europe's quest for energy diversification.
As the Africa-Europe Roundtable Discussion at AEW approaches, the focus is on fostering comprehensive dialogue between African executives and European investors. This platform transcends traditional aid frameworks, aiming to establish mutually beneficial commercial collaborations that address Africa's energy needs while offering lucrative opportunities to European investors. The roundtable's significance is paramount, as it not only tackles immediate energy challenges but also catalyzes broader economic growth and trade between the two continents.
The balancing act between Europe's renewable agenda and Africa's oil and gas ambitions is complex but not insurmountable. The Africa-Europe Roundtable discussion at AEW stands as a pivotal moment in shaping this collaborative journey. By navigating these competing priorities and fostering strategic partnerships, both continents can pave the way for sustainable energy, economic growth, and global cooperation.
AEW is the AEC’s annual conference, exhibition and networking event. AEW 2023 will unite African energy policymakers and stakeholders with global investors to discuss and maximize opportunities within the continent’s entire energy industry. For more information about AEW 2023, visithttps://AECWeek.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
LaVida Studios Secures the Biggest International Investment for Nollywood
LaVida Studios, one of leading film and TV productions centres in Nollywood has secured a US$50 million three-year collaboration with The Story Lab of the United States of America for 10 films and television projects focused on bringing African stories to the global stage. Focusing on both scripted and unscripted film and TV projects, the alliance will see production serviced exclusively by LaVida Studios for all Africa-based productions out of The Story Lab. This groundbreaking partnership is the biggest international investment so far in Nollywood and the Nigerian film industry.
LaVida Studios cofounded by Chioma Ude and Olugbenga Obadina is based in Lagos,the entertainment capital of Nigeria’s fast developing Nollywood, the largest indie film industry in Africa. LaVida is known for the award winning film, Seven on Netflix, as well as Third Party, Stuck and Eye-Witness for AfricaMagic/Showmax,
PAC Capital Limited has committed an initial $50 million for LaVida’s film and TV projects, including the collaboration with The Story Lab. The funding is being accessed from PAC Capital’s PanAfrican CCI Fund 1, a $100 million fund dedicated to financing film production and distribution in Africa.
LaVida and Dentsu are also planning to team with the African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) to create a joint initiative, AFRIFF/Dentsu & TV program which would recruit and support top African writing talent in creating original stories that appeal to a global audience.
Chioma Ude, founder of AFRIFF and managing partner in LaVida Studios, said: “We are thrilled to be working together with Dentsu and its The Story Lab team in the U.S. to bring authentic and compelling African stories to the world.”
The partnership, which is being spearheaded by Geneva Wasserman, executive VP and head of scripted content, The Story Lab U.S., who joined the organization in 2021, is thanks in part to her having already served as a board member for the AFRIFF network.
Wasserman said: “The combination of LaVida’s partnerships with top Nigerian creators and Dentsu’s global network and presence will serve as a bridge between these top content creators and the global market through this collaboration. We are honored to bring these stories to the world.”
Mike Ferry, head of The Story Lab U.S. added, “It is partnerships like this one which really help move the dial when it comes to discovering and elevating emerging talent. I’m so pleased we can be part of amplifying the diverse voices of Africa alongside our friends at LaVida and AFRIFF.”
LaVida Studios and Chioma Ude are represented by CAA and The Story Lab U.S. is represented by UTA.
"Expanding distribution infrastructure and access to African content globally; substituting the apprenticeship model in Nollywood for formal education and mentorship and; co-production with global production studios, are three major initiatives that will definitely take Nollywood to the next level. These are highlights of what the partnership between LaVida Studios and TSL is poised to achieve. It’s exciting times ahead," said Olugbenga Obadina.
The best and biggest international acquisition deal for Nollywood in 2021 happened on Vuulr
On Vuulr, over 68 hours of NIgerian content was bought by a leading OTT platform in North America and more movies were acquired by an Asian video streaming and video on demand platform, one of the biggest and largest video streaming services in the world with over 280 million users globally and has a streaming library of over 150,000 hours across 12 languages worldwide.
Other major international acquisition, distribution and production deals in 2021 included Lionsgate's acquisition of "A Soldier's Story 2" for video on demand and television distribution across the United States and Canada; Silverbird Group's US$50 mllion deal with AAA Entertainment of South Africa to develop and produce a series of cinematic African feature films in Africa; Kemi Adetiba's deal with Netflix for "King Of Boys: The Return Of The King" political thriller in a seven-part project that is Netflix's first Original Series from Nigeria; Walt Disney Animation Studios and the Kugali Media's Disney Plus Original Series “Iwájú” and lest I forget BBC Studios signed a development deal with Mo Abudu's EbonyLife for a six-part heist crime thriller, "Reclaim".
These groundbreaking deals for content producers in Nollywood and the Nigerian film industry have made International headlines and I am expecting more international acquisition and distribution of NIgerian movies and series in 2022.
Morocco's Oasis Studios Venture Looks to Fuel Pan-African Production - Variety
Moroccan producer Khadija Alami and Nigerian producer and Africa Intl. Film Festival founder Chioma Ude have announced a 50-50 partnership in Morocco’s Oasis Studios, a thriving production hub that they aim to use as a launching pad for the next generation of African filmmakers.
Chivas Regal and FilmAid International Launch Global Brand Partnership in Cannes
FilmAid Founder Caroline Baron, FilmAid President Iliane Ogilvie Thompson and Long-time FilmAid Supporter Robert De Niro Celebrate Launch
CANNES, France, May 16 /PRNewswire/ — Chivas Regal, the world's original luxury Scotch whisky and Official Partner of the Festival de Cannes, has announced a new global brand partnership with the charity FilmAid International.
Caroline Baron, Robert DeNiro and James Slack
The official launch celebration of the partnership took place in Chivas House, on the Croisette in Cannes, on Friday 13th May and was attended by FilmAid Founder Caroline Baron, FilmAid President Iliane Ogilvie Thompson and long-time supporter of FilmAid and President of the Jury of this year's Festival de Cannes, Robert De Niro.
The partnership will see Chivas Regal and FilmAid working together to help, educate and inspire communities in need through the power of film. An initial donation of US$100,000 was made by Chivas Regal to support FilmAid projects across the world.
FilmAid International is a humanitarian organisation that harnesses the power of film to educate and bring hope to refugees and other communities in need around the globe. Founded in 1999 during the Balkan crisis, FilmAid works in partnership with the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and other global aid organisations to bring film and video programs that inform inspire and empower to more than 1 million people.
Chivas Regal has a history of supporting cinema, having played a starring role at many of the world's most celebrated events. Now in its third year as the Official Partner of the Festival de Cannes, Chivas Regal continues to strengthen its position in, and commitment to, cinema.
To mark the launch, Chivas Regal commissioned Magnum Photos to create an exhibition showcasing the work of FilmAid, a selection of which is on display in Chivas House.
James Slack, Brand Director of Chivas Regal, says, "The work of FilmAid is truly inspirational and we are delighted to support the amazing work they do around the world.
"The partnership aligns well with values that Chivas Regal is passionate about: brotherhood, generosity, integrity and a social awareness for the world in which we live. The partnership with FilmAid provides our customers with a tangible proof-point of these values while reinforcing our commitment to film and cinema, whether it be here in Cannes or among some of the most needy communities in the world."
Liz Manne, Executive Director of FilmAid, says, "We at FilmAid International are delighted by our new partnership with Chivas Regal. Their dedication to cinema makes them the perfect partner for FilmAid, which brings cinema to those most in need of the inspiration and education that film can provide. We look forward to developing this partnership with Chivas in the future."
For free editorial content from the FilmAid partnership launch, visit the Chivas FTP site:
* Click on the following link ftp.chivasincannes.com * To view this FTP site in Windows Explorer, click Page, and the click Open FTP Site in Windows Explorer. * Username: Chivas * Password: FilmAid2011
Notes to Editors
* Chivas Regal is now in its third year as official supplier of the Festival de Cannes – the most exclusive and celebrated international film festival. * Chivas Regal's global brand partnership with FilmAid will see Chivas Regal provide financial support to FilmAid projects across the world. * Chivas Regal commissioned Magnum Photos photographer, Dominic Nahr, to shoot on location at a FilmAid project in Kenya. A selection of images was showcased at the launch event in Cannes.
About Chivas Regal
* Chivas Regal is a truly international premium Scotch whisky brand, sold in more than 150 countries, selling over 4.2 million nine-litre cases annually. * Chivas Regal is regarded as a global luxury icon, much like the celebrated Festival de Cannes. * In addition to Cannes, which in 2011 runs from the 11th to the 22nd May, Chivas Regal has historically played a starring role at many other prestigious cinema occasions, such as the BAFTA Nominees Party, The Academy Awards, Césars in France and more recently the Asian Film Awards, of which Chivas Regal 25 is the red carpet sponsor.
About FilmAid International
* FilmAid International is a non-profit organization that harnesses the power of film to reach refugees and other communities in need with messages that inspire, address critical shared needs and effect social change. * Working in refugee camps, urban slums, disaster zones and other communities in need, FilmAid's screenings provide a vital channel for conveying knowledge, empowerment and hope. * FilmAid operates two on-going programmes in Kenya: the Kakuma Refugee Camp (85,000 people) on the border of Southern Sudan and the Dadaab Refugee Camp on the border of Somalia (337,000 people). These programmes serve refugees from Sudan, Somalia, Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, Burundi and Ethiopia. FilmAid also works with challenged communities within Kenya, including the Mathare and Kibera Slums. In late 2009, FilmAid started working with Burmese refugees in Thailand, and in 2010 began work with Internally Displaced Persons in Haiti, following the devastating earthquake.
For more information, please contact: Astrid Froment International Marketing Manager – Chivas Regal Tel: +44 (0)20 8250 1658 I / Mobile: +44 (0)7810 630 737 astrid.froment@pernod-ricard.com
Increased Cooperation and Co-Financing for Investments in Africa / African Financing Partnership Launched by leading Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) Active Across the Continent
ABIDJAN, May 27, 2010/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Earlier today 8 development finance institutions, who last year invested over USD 8.8 billion in projects across the continent, formally launched the African Financing Partnership (AFP). This collaboration will enable greater cooperation and co-financing, and work towards improving joint assessment and evaluation of private sector projects across the continent. This marks a significant development for effective use of donor resources in Africa and aim to attract greater private sector investment for private sector projects on the continent with strong development outcomes.
The eight participating institutions with strong experience of operating in Africa are the African Development Bank; Development Bank of Southern Africa; Deutsche Investitions-und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG); European Investment Bank; Netherlands Development Finance Company FMO; Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa; IFC, a member of the World Bank Group; and Proparco.
Speaking at the launch, Donald Kaberuka President of the African Development Bank, said “The AFP is a major pillar in the partnership strategy of the African Development Bank. I applaud the Private Sector department for this initiative”. In 2009, he explained, “the DFIs worked collaboratively on projects in Africa, including Main One Cable in Nigeria, to jointly finance over US$ 1 billion in projects under partnership models”, adding that “This year, the target for collaborative co-financing is manifold, including financing projects in countries such as Sierra Leone and Côte d'Ivoire. These projects are in sectors such as infrastructure, power, renewable energy and agribusiness”. “Last year, the AFP was a coordinating platform for the Joint IFI/DFI Action Plan to respond to the financial crisis in Africa and with a target mobilization of US$ 15 billion,” Dr. Kaberuka further explained.
“There is an evident need for partnerships amongst development finance institutions, for efficient utilization of our human and capital resources to meet vast financing needs of private sector projects in Africa” African Development Bank Private Sector Director, Tim Turner stated.
DEG, the German development financing institution, which, in 2009, had its best new business result in Africa since its inception, has the ambition to further increase and enhance its long lasting commitment to the private sector development on the African continent. “This will be supported by an intensified cooperation between likeminded institutions,” explained Winfried Nau, Head New Business Africa at DEG. “AFP will help optimizing the promotion of much needed private initiative for the sake of economic development,” he further stated.
"The European Investment Bank is pleased to be a founding member of the African Financing Partnership. This marks a key step in improving cooperation and increasing aid effectiveness in the spirit of the Paris Declaration for the benefit of Africa. Last year, nearly three quarters of all EIB projects in Africa were financed with other partners, whose involvement and expertise increased both the sector scope and number of investments across the continent" said Plutarchos Sakellaris, European Investment Bank Vice President responsible for Africa.
Jaap Reinking, Director, Global Partners Department said, “FMO takes a strong interest in close co-operation with our financial partners. Cooperation optimizes efficiencies and smoothens processes for our clients. The AFP is an important initiative in achieving such closer cooperation between the participating institutions”.
Ms. Lindi Toyi, Head of Public Private Partnerships at the IDC said, “The IDC is proud to be a Promoting Partner of the AFP and IDC looks forward to working with the other the Promoting Partners within the AFP. The AFP will serve an important platform to mobilise funding in a more coordinated fashion for projects in Africa.”
“IFC is deeply committed to increasing cooperation with our partners through the African Financing Partnership. Working together will enable IFC and its partners to have a greater impact helping Africa fulfill its economic potential and ensure that more Africans can build a better future,” said Thierry Tanoh, IFC Vice President responsible for Africa.
The endorsement by the AFP Promoting Partners indicates their common goal to work together on a mission of poverty alleviation and private sector development in Africa. The partnership will target financing of large-scale projects in infrastructure and industrial sectors leading to economic growth and job creation. Smaller innovative projects as well as investments in financial services, including SME and microfinance projects may also be considered.
In practice the African Financing Partnership will enable one institution to coordinate on behalf of the others, as Lead Promoting Partner, and propose involvement of other institutions, thus minimizing duplication of efforts such as due-diligence, appraisal and excessive demand on the project sponsor. This will lead to greater efficiency, common selection of external advisors and reduced borrowing costs.
The strategic development of the African Financing Partnership will be determined by a committee comprising representatives of all institutions and will act as a platform for co-financing private sector projects in African countries defined as regional members of the African Development Bank. Other development finance institutions or private sector investors could join the initiative at a later stage.
The U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission is a big step in the right direction in the consummation of the bilateral relations between the United States of America and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I hope the U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission will help us in the nation building of a New Nigeria in the leadership of Africa in the comity of nations.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Alhaji Yayale Ahmed and U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton signing the Framework for the Establishment of a Binational Commission between the Government of the Republic of Nigeria and the Government of the United States of America, in Washington, DC. on Tuesday April 6, 2010.
Verbatim: Today, we are taking a concrete step forward that will strengthen and deepen the partnership between our two nations. The Commission will help us work together... I want to assure the Secretary, the Government and the people of Nigeria that President Obama, the Obama Administration and the people of the United States will stand with the Nigerians. (RT 4:00)
The U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission is a strategic dialogue designed to expand mutual cooperation across a broad range of shared interests. The Commission is a collaborative forum to build partnerships for tangible and measurable progress on issues critical to our shared future. We have agreed that the Commission will operate working groups on Good Governance, Transparency, and Integrity; Energy and Investment; Food Security and Agriculture; and, Niger Delta and Regional Security Cooperation. These working groups will meet in either Washington or Abuja over the coming months.
