The Nuances of Igbo Narrative Drama in Nollywood

The Nuances of Igbo Narrative Drama in Nollywood

There should be film studies on 

the nuances of Igbo Narrative Drama in Nollywood. Because the studies are important, relevant and significant in Nigerian Cinema, contemporary art of Igbo culture and history and African studies for both academic scholarship and public knowledge.

There is a study on "THE NUANCED FEMINISM IN GENEVIEVE NNAJI'S LIONHEART" by Uche Omar.

I have viewed the trailer of a new Nigerian drama in Igbo language with some dialogue in English sent to me from the UK.

From the intriguing and thrilling scenarios, I can tell that this would be one of the must see movies of the year in Nigeria.

A Chief Judge fails to mature from her experiences at a Covent as a murder case threatens to eclipse her.

I can see the genius of the director in the clips in the trailer.

The casting, acting by the accomplished actors, including the current most popular Nollywood actor at the cinemas in West Africa; the cinematography; sound; costume and makeup are impressive in the storytelling in motion picture comparable to the best dramas by accomplished filmmakers in the world.

I have been calling for Nigerian drama as good as the best Korean drama, English drama, American drama and Indian drama.

This Igbo drama most likely would be what I can call, "This is it!"

I have deliberately decided not to mention the names of the principal actors. The hint of the current most popular Nollywood actor in West Africa is enough for anyone who truly knows this outstanding actor of international repute.

This should be the best Igbo drama since Genevieve Nnaji's "Lionheart" released in 2018.

This one will attract more people in Nigeria and other countries, because crime thrillers pull more crowds to the cinemas and attract more viewers on TV and streaming channels, especially psychological drama with romance and intriguing characters.

The trailer is not yet available for public viewing.

- By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima,

Publisher/Editor,

NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series,

The first book series on Nollywood and the Nigerian film industry.

Girl, Six Starts School After Life Changing Surgery in Senegal

 Mercy Ships

PRESS RELEASE

Girl, Six, Starts School After Life-Changing Surgery in Senegal

Six-year-old Mariama from Sedhiou in Senegal, West Africa, was just four when her legs began to bend outwards.

DAKAR, Senegal, March 20, 2023/ -- A mother who feared her daughter could never go to school and thought her bowed legs were incurable is calling her transformation by a surgical charity ‘a miracle’.

Six-year-old Mariama from Sedhiou in Senegal, West Africa, was just four when her legs began to bend outwards.

Her mother, Sifaye, said: “When I noticed her legs like that, I was really worried. I wasn't able to sleep enough. I was so scared.”

Mariama’s condition worsened as she grew, and her mother was concerned she would face more and more isolation. She could not run and jump like her friends and became self-conscious.

“Her friends laughed at her because she couldn’t walk fast or run, she was always behind,” Sifaye added.

Her parents made the difficult decision to keep her out of school.

Sifaye, a mother of four, said: “The school is so far, that is why I didn't send her there. Because she can't walk a long distance without complaining that she was tired. If she went to school, she wouldn’t be able to walk back home.”

The family sought hard for a cure for the next year but found nothing.

Her mother said: “During that period, we tried every type of medicine, but nothing changed. When we took her to the hospital, they told us that they can’t cure her.”

They were told that her legs would likely continue to curve for the rest of her life.

A year later, in a village two hours away, Sifaye’s brother Mane heard about Mercy Ships, an international charity with two hospital ships that deliver free surgeries to those with little access to safe medical care. He met a member of the charity’s patient selection team assessing potential surgical patients.

Mane said, “He told me they would offer free surgeries for patients. He showed me photos of people they had already treated. The pictures of the previous patients convinced me. I wished the same for my niece.”

He immediately told his sister.

Despite the fact that Sifaye was full of fear and had never travelled more than two hours from her home village, she travelled two days with her daughter to get to the port of Dakar, where the hospital ship the Africa Mercy was docked.

Sifaye said, “I was absolutely afraid of taking her [Mariama] to the ship.”

She said the first few days were constant bouts of homesickness, but the team on board quickly made them feel at home. For the first time, they also met children with conditions like Mariama’s.

“I was happy to meet other mothers who knew what I was going through, and it was good for Mariama to see she was not alone,” Sifaye said.

Volunteer orthopedic surgeon Dr. Stan Kinsch from Luxembourg, who treated Mariama, says that bowed legs can occur due to malnutrition.

Unfortunately, due to inadequate medical access in some African countries, the condition is more prevalent on the continent compared to other parts of the world.

“In developed countries, these conditions are treated early so they don’t require surgery. But here they are recognized late, and appropriate treatment isn’t available, so they develop into extreme forms,” said Dr. Kinsch.

After surgery and three months of physiotherapy, Sifaye and Mariama were ready to go home.

When Sifaye saw her daughter’s straight legs for the first time, she was overwhelmed with joy.

She exclaimed, “I was so surprised; I thought her legs would always be bent for the rest of her life. Seeing them like that today was wonderful. We were never going to afford to get her surgery, so this is a miracle for us.”

Mariama has now successfully started school.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.

Notes to editors:

Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact. 

Each year, more than 3,000 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical, obstetric and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit www.MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.

For More Information Contact:

Saran Kaba WAGUÉ

APO Group

saran.kaba-wague@apo-opa.com

SOURCE

Mercy Ships

The Big 5 Construct Nigeria Paves the Way for Industry Growth

The Big 5 Construct Nigeria Paves the Way for Industry Growth

Leading trade show underpins the advancement of the Nigerian construction industry

• Nigeria is the number one construction and infrastructure market in West Africa 
• The Nigerian government has allocated $123.1 billion for critical infrastructure projects between 2021 and 2025 
• The Big 5 Construct Nigeria is the country’s largest gathering for the construction and infrastructure community, expecting exhibits from over 130 international and local construction products, services and technology companies.

Lagos, 23 August 2022:  At The Big 5 Construct Nigeria, taking place between 27 and 29 September 2022 at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, leading industry buyers and sellers from Africa and beyond will come together to promote innovation, share cutting edge knowledge, and accelerate business, in a safe and convenient environment.  

Following the disruptions forced on the construction industry in recent years due to the pandemic, latest forecasts predict industry growth of 5.7% in 2022, and suggest that construction activity in Nigeria will surpass pre-COVID levels by 2023. This growth is supported by the Nigerian government’s investment in infrastructure and housing development projects, with $123.1 billion allocated for critical infrastructure projects between 2021 and 2025.

“Launched in 2019, The Big 5 Construct Nigeria is now earmarked as the yearly gathering of construction professionals to engage both with the local and international community, as a place to source, learn and develop new skills. By bringing together experts and suppliers from around the world to engage with the local construction community, the event plays a direct role to support the needs of the country's infrastructure and housing development projects,” says Ben Greenish, Senior Vice President, dmg events. 

From building materials and tools, interiors and finishes, to solar and urban design landscaping, the products and services on show will cover the full construction cycle from inception to completion, from leading companies such as Forero Nigeria Limited, Sana Grup and Kohler. In addition, for the first time, the expo will also showcase four new international pavilions from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt and Kuwait.

Gold sponsor of the event is CDK Integrated Industries, local manufacturer of premium quality sanitary ware, as well as ceramic and porcelain tiles. The company’s outlook for the future of Nigeria’s construction industry is extremely positive. “As a result of to the Federation Government’s import policies, as well as dollar rationing and the impact of Covid on export, logistics and production costs, CDK has experienced considerable growth of over 65% in the last two years,” says CDK Brand and Marketing Manager, Abimbola Onagbade.  

Over and above the wealth of products and services on show from local and international exhibitors, visitors to the 3-day in-person event will have the opportunity to learn valuable industry insights when they attend a series of CPD-certified talks, featuring keynotes and panel discussions led by notable industry experts that address the challenges of construction and explore the key components for practical growth and prosperity.

The 3-day Industry Talks programme will focus on three core themes of technology, project management and architecture, and will include discussions on the trends and opportunities driving the ongoing digital transformation across Nigeria, as well as green architecture and project cost control budgeting. In addition, several masterclasses will be offered by the Chartered Institute of Building, such as sustainable project management implementation, the redesign of streets in African cities and tips to building sustainability credibility. 

“The Big 5 Construct Nigeria continues to propel change and is a must-attend event for buyers and brands across Sub Saharan Africa who are looking to be inspired by other trend-setters and innovators within the industry,” concludes Greenish.

The Big 5 Construct Nigeria will take place at the Landmark Centre in Lagos from 27-29 September 2022, from 10:00 – 17:00 daily and is free to attend for all industry professionals.

For more information or to register, please visit:  https://www.thebig5constructnigeria.com

ENDS

About The Big 5 Construct Nigeria

The Big 5 Construct Nigeria is a unique platform bringing together influential decision-makers, innovators, and suppliers from the region and beyond. The event offers visitors a opportunity to connect with 8000 of their industry peers, find the right products & solutions from over 120 international and local exhibitors and earn free CPD points through a curated talks programme.

For more information, please visit our website: www.thebig5constructnigeria.com 

About dmg eventsv

dmg events is a leading organizer of face-to-face events and a publisher of trade magazines.

The company aims to keep businesses informed and connect them with relevant communities to create vibrant marketplaces and to accelerate their business through face-to-face events.

dmg events organizes more than 80 events across 25 countries, attracting over 425,000 attendees and delegates every year. The company’s portfolio of products includes many industry-leading events in the energy, construction, hospitality & design, coatings, and transportation sectors. ADIPEC, The Big 5, Gastech, EGYPS, The Hotel Show and INDEX are the company’s flagship events. 

“Rise” to Premiere on ESPN this August

 

PRESS RELEASE

“Rise” to Premiere on ESPN this August

Rise is based on the triumphant true-life story of the remarkable family that produced the first trio of brothers to become NBA champions in the history of the league

Access Multimedia Content

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, July 27, 2022/ -- Disney+ original film based on the true story of remarkable Antetokounmpo basketball brothers; Antetokounmpo: a Nigerian surname which, according to the Yoruba people of West Africa, means “the crown has returned from overseas” ESPN Africa announced that the Disney+ original film Rise, will have its linear premiere across the continent on ESPN (DStv218, Starsat 248) on Monday 1 August at 20:00. Directed by Akin Omotoso, Rise is based on the triumphant true-life story of the remarkable family that produced the first trio of brothers to become NBA champions in the history of the league - Giannis and Thanasis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks and former Los Angeles Laker Kostas Antetokounmpo. In this powerful, uplifting film, viewers will witness how one family’s vision, determination and faith lifted them out of obscurity to launch the career of two-time MVP Giannis and his brothers, Thanasis and Kostas. Last season, Giannis and Thanasis helped bring the Bucks their first NBA championship ring in 50 years, while Kostas played for the previous season champs, the Lakers. After immigrating to Greece from Nigeria, Vera and Charles Antetokounmpo struggled to survive and provide for their five children, while living under the daily threat of deportation. With their oldest son still in Nigeria with relatives, the couple were desperate to obtain Greek citizenship but found themselves undermined by a system that blocked them at every turn. When they weren’t selling items to tourists on the streets of Athens with the rest of the family, the brothers would play basketball with a local youth team. Latecomers to the sport, they discovered their great abilities on the basketball court and worked hard to become world-class athletes. With the help of an agent, Giannis entered the NBA Draft in 2013 in a long-shot prospect that would change not only his life but the lives of his entire family. Newcomers Uche Agada and Ral Agada - also real-life brothers - portray young Giannis and Thanasis, with Jaden Osimuwa and Elijah Sholanke as their younger two brothers, Kostas and Alexandros (“Alex”), respectively. Dayo Okeniyi (“Emperor,” “Shades of Blue”) and Yetide Badaki (“American Gods,” “This Is Us”) play their parents, Charles and Veronica (“Vera”), with Manish Dayal as Giannis’ tenacious agent, Kevin Stefanides, and Taylor Nichols as John Hammond, general manager of the Milwaukee Bucks. Rise is directed by Akin Omotoso (“Vaya”) and written by Arash Amel (“A Private War”), with Bernie Goldmann (“300”) producing and Giannis Antetokounmpo and Douglas S. Jones as executive producers. Co-producers are Andreas Dimitriou and Michael Foutras. Broadcast slots Premiere: Monday 1 August at 20:00 Repeat broadcasts: Tuesday 2 August at 10:45 and 18:00 Monday 8 August at 20:00 Tuesday 9 August 10:45 and 18:00 How to tune in: ESPN: DStv 218, Starsat 248  All times are stated in CAT / SAST. Schedule subject to change For updates regarding the world of American sports, fans can connect to @ESPNAfrica on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit https://www.ESPN.com. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Walt Disney Company.   For any queries, kindly contact: Jenny Griesel Jenny Griesel Communications Tel 083 406 3444 / jenny@jennygriesel.co.za About The Walt Disney Company EMEA: The Walt Disney Company has been in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) for over 80 years and employs thousands across the region. Between Disneyland Paris and its other iconic brands, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, 20th Century Studios and ESPN, The Walt Disney Company EMEA entertains, informs and inspires millions of consumers in more than 130 countries through the power of unparalleled storytelling. Disney+, the company’s direct-to-consumer streaming service, is currently available in 17 markets across Europe. SOURCE The Walt Disney Company

The MultiChoice Talent Factory and other Film Schools in Nigeria

The MultiChoice Talent Factory and other Film Schools in Nigeria

I have waited long enough to assess the progress of the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) before writing about it 

I was told that the primary purpose of the establishment is to train screenwriters and filmmakers that will produce regular content for the M-Net Channels on DStv. But it has done more than that, because the alumni are producing content for the global entertainment industry.

The MTF covers WEST AFRICA: Ghana & Nigeria; EAST AFRICA: Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda & Tanzania and SOUTHERN AFRICA: Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia & Zimbabwe.

The MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Academy has achieved within three years of its establishment since 2018 what other older film schools in Nigeria have failed to achieve for the advancement of the Nigerian film industry. In fact, MTF has exposed the shortcomings of the film schools that have been existing since 2010 to date, but they are still having unaccredited courses and poorly trained graduates who have been rushed through ad-hoc courses in overcrowded classes without in-depth hands-on training on the most important components of filmmaking and film studies.

In filmmaking, if you are good, your works will show that you are good from the script to the screen. In filmmaking, seeing is believing. You show more and talk less. A good film school is not judged by attractive curriculums or fine buildings, but by the quality of the faculty and the quality of the film and TV productions of the alumni in the film industry.

The alumni of MTF have won international awards and scholarships; including the Spotlight award at the 15th edition of the Mobile Film Festival held in Paris, France in 2019 and awards of scholarships from the New York Film Academy (NYFA)  among other notable achievements.

The other film schools in Nigeria should use the template of the MTF for the improvement of their curriculums in accordance with the international standards of the best film schools in the world and they should join the International Association of Film and Television Schools (Centre International de Liaison des Ecoles de Cinéma et de Télévision (CILECT)

https://www.cilect.org/

It is highly recommended to read the interview of MultiChoice Group CEO,  Yolisa Phahle .

TBI Spotlight On Africa: MultiChoice Group CEO Yolisa Phahle – TBI Vision
https://tbivision.com/2021/10/26/tbi-spotlight-on-africa-multichoice-group-ceo-yolisa-phahle/

- By Ekenyerengozi Michael China,

The Publisher/Editor,

NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series.

Nigerian Star of the Month: J'odie - Kuchi Kuchi (Oh Baby)

Nigerian Singer, J'odie, released her first video, for the baby-inspired Zouk song which was produced by Phat-E and released at the tail end of 2010. The song exudes innocence and is extremely melodic in its delivery and her style can be described in three words; Soulful, Artsy... Simply African.

Artist Summary
Genres: Pop / Neo-Soul / zouk
Management: +234 803 334 7467
Artist Bio



Joy Odiete, popularly known as Jodie, born on the 22nd of June, is a young soulful singer from Nigeria with a personality that exudes African freshness and originality.

Being one the favorite finalist in the premier edition of Idols, West Africa, her debut has been anticipated by fans not only in Nigeria, but among other African viewers.

Finally, her first single, “Fighter”, is out. “Fighter” was born out of her determination to achieve her musical dream and never to give up.

Jodie is a singer, songwriter and jewelry artiste. She loves being African and so keeps her virgin hair… Jodie is simply “Jodie”!

www.reverbnation.com/jodiegreat
www.twitter.com/jodiegreat


Tweet

Agricultural experts push for a strong seed sector in West Africa

13 May 2011 19:57 Africa/Lagos


Agricultural experts push for a strong seed sector in West Africa

COTONOU, May 13, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Underlining that seed security is a prerequisite for achieving food security, agricultural experts participating in the just-concluded Regional Workshop on Seed Policy in West Africa urged decision-makers to support the sustainable growth and development of the West African seed sector, particularly for food security crops, such as rice, millet, sorghum, cowpeas and maize.


The experts recommended the need to formulate, adopt, and implement coherent strategies and policies at regional and national levels for the rapid development of viable seed enterprises which would help increase the steady supply of quality seed to millions of smallholder farmers in West Africa.


The workshop was jointly organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice) in Cotonou, Benin. It was inaugurated by His Excellency Michel Sogbossi, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Government of Benin.


“Strong research programs and solid seed systems are crucial to give farmers access to better varieties and quality seeds,” said Dr. Marco Wopereis, AfricaRice Deputy Director General & Director for Research at the workshop, which provided an overview of the current status of the West African seed sector as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with it.


Seed entrepreneurs in the sub-region face many challenges because of the absence of coherent seed policies, poor infrastructure and lack of access to improved seed, complementary inputs, production technologies, credits and training.


Highlighting the importance of developing national seed policies, Dr. Robert Guéi, Senior Officer from FAO, remarked that the seed industry was relatively more developed in other regions of Africa than in Central and West Africa.


“Until now only a few countries in West Africa, such as Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, Sierra Leone, Benin, etc., have formulated and passed a coherent seed policy, while a few others are in the process of doing so,” Dr. Guéi said.


Key recommendations targeted to specific stakeholder groups were made by the participants to enable a sustainable seed production and distribution effort to take off in the sub-regions. These include the need to:

• Develop improved varieties and ensure their rapid delivery through effective seed systems;

• Develop national action plans to support the sustainable development of seed industries;

• Strengthen partnerships between the public and the private sector on seed-related issues, with clear delineation of their respective roles;

• Develop the capacity of the formal and informal seed sectors;

• Integrate a value-chain approach in the seed policies;

• Develop regulatory frameworks for rapid and sustainable growth of the seed industry; and

• Ensure the participation of the whole range of actors in the formulation of seed policies.

“A true partnership among all the actors will be the basis for success to develop a strong seed sector in West Africa,” said Dr. Rita Agboh-Noameshie, AfricaRice scientist, who coordinated the workshop in partnership with FAO.


The workshop was attended by decision-makers from 11 countries in West Africa and from Madagascar. Representatives from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (WECARD/CORAF), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC), the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA), the African Seed Network (ASN), FAO and AfricaRice also took part.



Source: Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice)

It Matters That Nigeria Conducts Credible Elections - Commonwealth

A Nigerian voter. Photo Credit: Daily Mail, UK.

9 Feb 2011 18:16 Africa/Lagos

It Matters That Nigeria Conducts Credible Elections - Commonwealth

ABUJA, Nigeria, February 9, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- The Commonwealth is at an advanced stage of preparations for the monitoring of elections in Nigeria, Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General Mmasekgoa Masire-Mwamba said on Wednesday at the end of a four-day visit to the West African country.

During her visit, Ms Masire-Mwamba and her delegation engaged key actors and stakeholders involved in the forthcoming elections, and re-affirmed the Commonwealth's support and expectations for a peaceful and credible process.

She spoke at a news conference in the Nigerian capital, Abuja.

"The Commonwealth takes a keen interest in elections across its membership. Nigeria is a valued member with whom we have a strong and mutual beneficial engagement. It is also a key member of the association which contributes and participates actively in Commonwealth activities - including hosting CHOGM in 2003, and producing a Secretary-General of the Commonwealth," Ms Masire-Mwamba said.

"Nigeria is a leader on the continent, playing a significant role in promoting peace, and in regional economic growth and development.

"It matters to the Commonwealth, Africa and the world that Nigeria and other member states conduct credible elections.

"Since arriving in Abuja on Sunday, I have met with leaders of political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society representatives and the international community. I have listened to their views on how the process is going, and discussed the progress as well as the challenges. In all our meetings, we have had candid and open discussions.

"Stakeholders have noted positive steps in the preparations so far. I am hopeful that if all actors - politicians, civil society, the public, and you, members of the media continue to play your expected roles, there can be an outcome that reflects the will and aspirations of the people.

"Any election is a complex and challenging undertaking and requires the cooperation and support of all stakeholders. Political leaders and parties must display political will to ensure a credible process. The people need to show faith in the democratic process and participate in it. It is crucial that violence is avoided by all means, and the rule of law must be allowed to prevail. All must ensure that both the process and outcome meet Commonwealth values as well as international and regional electoral benchmarks to which Nigeria has committed itself.

"On our part, we will remain engaged and offer support and assistance as requested.

"We wish the people of Nigeria a most successful, peaceful and credible election," Ms Masire-Mwamba concluded.

For media enquiries, please contact Julius Mucunguzi, Media Officer, on +234-7063597240 or +44-7894-593-517, email: j.mucunguzi@commonwealth.int

Source: The Commonwealth Secretariat

For media enquiries, please contact Julius Mucunguzi, Media Officer, on +234-7063597240 or +44-7894-593-517, email: j.mucunguzi@commonwealth.int

Upstream Powers MTN's FIFA World Cup(TM) Themed Mobile Marketing Campaigns in West Africa

15 Jul 2010 12:11 Africa/Lagos


Upstream Powers MTN's FIFA World Cup(TM) Themed Mobile Marketing Campaigns in West Africa

LONDON, July 15, 2010/PRNewswire/ --


- Campaigns for Mobile Operator Giant and FIFA World Cup Global Sponsor MTN, in Nigeria, Benin and Ghana Generated Unprecedented Conversion Rates and Huge Consumer Excitement Demonstrating Upstream's Expertise in Delivering Regional Campaigns With Localised Customer Insight.


Upstream, one of the world's largest mobile marketing solutions providers, (http://www.upstreamsystems.com) is completing a series of successful localised mobile marketing campaigns across West Africa for MTN, as part of the Group's official FIFA World Cup sponsorship activities.


Upstream worked with MTN to create large-scale Mega Promotions for three of the group's West African markets - Nigeria, Ghana and Benin. The campaigns, which were timed to leverage the build up to the World Cup, were all launched at highly publicised events in April. With World Cup activities ending and the campaigns drawing to a close, results reveal an overwhelming response from users, boosting ARPU and generating a high level of excitement from MTN customers in each country after creating instant big winners.


Though launched simultaneously, the three campaigns were carefully constructed to fit unique consumer behaviour and demographics in each of the three countries. This demonstrates the ability of Upstream's sophisticated mobile marketing communications suite to deliver optimised, relevant, communications that engage and create positive and profitable interactions with every one of MTN's participating customers.


"Mobile operators like MTN do not want a cookie-cutter approach to how they market to their customer base, particularly for significant regional campaigns such as MTN's World Cup promotions, but they also want low risk solutions. For MTN, Upstream produced sophisticated CRM campaigns which have enabled them to deliver strongly branded and aligned competitions that were nimble enough to support their massive Africa-wide World Cup series of activities", said Nikos Moraitakis, VP Business Development at Upstream.


"We were amazed at how effortlessly Upstream grasped the needs and preferences of our subscriber base and formulated a customised promotion strategy. The MTN Benin - Upstream partnership was a great commercial success and we look forward to more profitable projects in the future", said Harriet Muchu, Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Benin.


Launched in 1994, MTN Group is a multinational telecommunications provider, with its core operations in 21 countries in Africa and the Middle East.


MTN CAMPAIGNS WITH UPSTREAM


MTN Nigeria


MTN 2010 World Cup Naira Splash Competition is a 90 day campaign launched in April, running until after the World Cup. Prizes include N20,000 Every Hour, N2,000,000 Every Day, N20,000,000 Every Month and 120 Tickets to the World Cup.


http://www.mtnonline.com/index.php/participate.html


MTN Benin


MTN 2010 World Cup Competition was a 60 day campaign when it was launched in April, following the success of the campaign it was extended to 90 days. The SMS mega promotion is being executed in local versions of French. Prizes include daily giveaways of Sony flat screen television and Hyundai cars.


MTN Ghana


MTN 2010 Win 90 cars in 90 days is a 90 day campaign launched in April running until the end of the World Cup. Prizes include daily giveaways of Hyundai Cars, Sony LCD TVs and MTN airtime vouchers.


http://www.mtn.com.gh/sub.aspx?ID=272&MID=228&ParentID=12&FirstParentID=3 &Level=3&FirstIsClosed5=N&SecondIsClosed50=Y


(Due to the length of this URL, it may be necessary to copy and paste this hyperlink into your Internet browser's URL address field. Remove the space if one exists.)


About Upstream


Upstream is a world leader in mobile marketing solutions, reaching over 500 million consumers in more than 40 countries. Using its advanced technology platform to deliver potent interactive communication via mobile channels, Upstream empowers global brands to activate their customers like never before.


Upstream was born out of a desire to revolutionise the way companies market to mobile consumers. By combining technology innovation with years of execution expertise and the analysis of terabytes of consumer data, communications powered by Upstream massively increase conversion rates and generate profitable interactions for companies and their mobile consumers.


This unique ability to extract value from any customer base has made Upstream the preferred mobile marketing partner for blue chip companies including Vodafone, T-Mobile, TIM, Orange, Telefonica, America Movil, Zain, MTN, The Coca-Cola Company, Nestle, Unilever, Shell and BSkyB.



Media contact:

Jacki Vause
Peppercom for Upstream
Jvause@uk.peppercom.com
+44(0)20-7033-2660

Alexandra Chong
Upstream
chong@upstreamsystems.com
+44(0)207-290-1320

Source: Upstream

Media contact: Jacki Vause, Peppercom for Upstream, Jvause@uk.peppercom.com, +44(0)20-7033-2660; Alexandra Chong, Upstream, chong@upstreamsystems.com, +44(0)207-290-1320



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Secure Mobile Wallet Solutions at AITEC Banking & Mobile Money West Africa Conference

12 May 2010 11:00 Africa/Lagos



CellTrust Corporation Showcases SecureSMS Messaging and Secure Mobile Wallet Solutions at AITEC Banking & Mobile Money West Africa Conference

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- CellTrust Corporation, the world's largest provider of SecureSMS for mobile phones (www.celltrust.com), announced today the company will showcase its SecureSMS messaging solution in the Mobile Money Hub at the AITEC Banking & Mobile Money West Africa conference, May 11-12, 2010 in Lagos, Nigeria. The company will also highlight the special features of its data-based and menu driven Secure Mobile Wallet.


CellTrust's SecureSMS platform has gained a strong foothold in Africa. The platform will enable banks and even other payment system providers to meet the stringent, new transmission channel security requirements of the Central Bank of Nigeria. In February of this year CellTrust launched its SecureSMS Mobile Banking and Payment Pilot for the African region through its partnership with Maxim-Pro Ltd. (www.maxim-pro.com), based in Lagos, Nigeria, to provide consumers the ability to make secure mobile cash transfers, payments and securely access other microfinance banking products.


"CellTrust's secure mobile banking platform is gaining significant momentum in Africa, where banks are cracking down on fraud and enforcing new security requirements for mobile financial management," said Sean Moshir, Chairman and CEO of CellTrust. "CellTrust's Secure Mobile platform brings significant value to the financial industry, as well as consumers in Africa, providing a secure and simple way to transfer money and make payments."


CellTrust SecureSMS provides end-to-end privacy on the mobile device via a highly encrypted, tamper-proof process while enabling message sizes up to 5,000 characters. CellTrust SecureSMS Appliance is the first global enterprise appliance to offer secure SMS communication for Handset to handset and enterprise applications to handsets with highly encrypted end to end security in compliance with HIPAA, FISMA, and Sarbanes-Oxley, ensuring that information is kept private and only delivered to the intended recipient. CellTrust's award winning SecureSMS(TM) Appliance and Gateway reaches 200+ countries and over 800 carriers.


About CellTrust Corporation


CellTrust is a leading provider of secure mobile messaging and applications. CellTrust's patent pending SecureSMS Gateway(TM) featuring the SecureSMS(TM) Appliance and a suite of mobile applications provide advanced secure mobile messaging and information management across 200+ countries and over 800 carriers. CellTrust ensures the secure and trusted exchange of information on mobile devices to the financial services, healthcare, government, education, energy, information technology, marketing, and travel, among other global industries. For more information about CellTrust's Global, African, North American and Australian operations: www.celltrust.com www.africa.celltrust.com www.celltrust.com.au


Media Contact:
Lora Friedrichsen
Global Results Comms (GRC) for CellTrust
+1 949-608-0276
celltrust@globalresultspr.com


Source: CellTrust Corporation

CONTACT: Media, Lora Friedrichsen of Global Results Comms (GRC),
+1-949-608-0276, celltrust@globalresultspr.com, for CellTrust


Web Site: http://www.celltrust.com/

Releases displayed in Africa/Lagos time 12 May 2010

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West African 'Oil Rush' Is On, Reports Gold Star Resources Corp. CEO in AFROIL Online News Column

10 Jun 2009 14:30 Africa/Lagos


West African 'Oil Rush' Is On, Reports Gold Star Resources Corp. CEO in AFROIL Online News Column

VANCOUVER, June 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- West Africa now offers "unparalleled opportunities" for major and independent oil and gas companies, writes Patrick Morris, CEO of Vancouver-based Gold Star Resources Corp. (OTC Bulletin Board: GXXFF; TSX-V; GXX; www.goldstarresources.com) in the June 10th issue of AFROIL, Africa Oil & Gas Monitor, an online publication of Newsbase Ltd., Edinburgh, Scotland read by subscribers in 25 countries (www.newsbase.com; Week 23; page 5 Guest Column). Morris, author of a news column published in AFROIL entitled "West African Oil Rush, Challenges", reported that changing geopolitics, reduced security and political risks, the recent 1.8 billion barrel discovery in West Africa's largest oilfield, the Jubilee in Ghana, and a new African foreign policy by recently elected U.S. President Barack Obama have all helped in making West Africa a "desirable destination for oil and gas exploration and production."

According to Morris, "For a long time West Africa has been off the radar of the international community because of messy politics and brutal civil wars. Also, apart from Nigeria and Gabon, there had been the disappointing size of oil discoveries made at times of low oil prices. All this is now changing. Expectations by countries and oil & gas companies to discover new reserves in the region are high. Exploration and seismic research activities are underway in all countries of West Africa bar Burkina Faso and Cape Verde. Governments are also actively involved. For example, in Liberia, the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) is promoting oil and gas exploration and development of its hydrocarbon resources along its continental shelf and slope. The sub-region is also gaining global attention as calm has been restored to countries such as Liberia, Sierra Leone and Cote d' Ivoire, reducing security risks."

"The role of junior exploration companies is to set the trend," Morris writes in his news column. " For example, Gold Star Resources is the first and only junior company to go after onshore oil and gas opportunities in Cote d' Ivoire and Liberia since the 1970s. Larger players are competing for offshore blocks all along the coast - but with no plans for any onshore exploration."

Gold Star Resources recently signed a Letter-of-Intent with Bengal Bight Ghana to acquire 100% of the hydrocarbon rights to the Tiampoum mining concession, approximately 1,000 square km, in Cote d' Ivoire. In January, Gold Star entered West Africa when it acquired 90% of the issued and outstanding shares of Liberia's International Resources Strategies Liberia Energy (IRSLE).

Source: Gold Star Resources Corp.

CONTACT: Patrick Morris, CEO, Gold Star Resources Corp.,
+1-604-641-4450, pm@goldstarresources.com

Web Site: http://www.goldstarresources.com/

Releases displayed in Africa/Lagos time
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World Cocoa Foundation and Leading Chocolate Industry Companies Partner with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to Significantly Improve Cocoa Farmer Liv

19 Feb 2009 07:00 Africa/Lagos

World Cocoa Foundation and Leading Chocolate Industry Companies Partner with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to Significantly Improve Cocoa Farmer Livelihoods in West Africa

Five-Year, $40 Million Investment to Focus on Increasing Cocoa Farmer Knowledge, Marketing Efficiency and Incomes

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- The World Cocoa Foundation today announced a new, $40 million program funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and chocolate industry companies to significantly improve the livelihoods of approximately 200,000 cocoa farmers in Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon and Liberia. The innovative, five-year West Africa Cocoa Livelihoods Program will focus on enhancing farmer knowledge and competitiveness, improving productivity and quality, promoting crop diversification and improving supply chain efficiency. These initiatives will help increase farmers' incomes and significantly improve cocoa community well-being.


The program will be managed by the World Cocoa Foundation and be implemented through a consortium of five organizations including ACDI/VOCA, Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) GmbH, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)/Sustainable Tree Crops Program, SOCODEVI and TechnoServe. In addition to the $23 million in funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, over $17 million in financial support and in-kind contributions come from the private sector: major branded manufacturers The Hershey Company, Kraft Foods and Mars, Incorporated; cocoa processors Archer Daniels Midland Company, Barry Callebaut, Blommer Chocolate Company and Cargill; and supply chain managers and allied industries Armajaro, Ecom-Agrocacao, Olam International Ltd. and Starbucks Coffee Company. The governments of the participating West African countries will support and be full partners in the program's implementation.


"We know from experience that cocoa can play a significant, positive role in improving farm family incomes in the developing world," said Bill Guyton, President, World Cocoa Foundation. "However, many cocoa farmers today lack the practical knowledge and organizational support needed to grow this unique crop profitably and sustainably. Thanks to our new partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, we will be able to dramatically expand our efforts to reach these farmers in West Africa and to promote economic and social development as well as environmental conservation in cocoa-growing communities."


Implementation plans and site selection for the West Africa Cocoa Livelihoods Program will be finalized over the coming months. On-the-ground program activities are expected to begin in late 2009 and early 2010. Once underway, the program will train farmers in better production techniques, quality improvement and business skills; professionalize farmer organizations to better meet member needs; and improve farmer access to agricultural inputs and improved-quality seedlings. The project will also improve farmers' access to market information and opportunities for diversification into alternative food and cash crops to maximize farmer income and security.


"Cocoa is West Africa's largest agricultural export, providing a living for nearly two million smallholder farmers and their families in the region," said Madame Amouan Acquah Assouan, Vice President, Coffee-Cocoa Sector Management Committee, Republic of Cote d'Ivoire. "Too many of them grow cocoa on a subsistence basis, failing to realize the economic benefit this important crop can provide. The new West Africa Cocoa Livelihoods Program can change this situation for the better, lifting thousands of these farm families out of poverty."


"Agriculture offers powerful pathways out of poverty, but without access to knowledge, tools, and markets, millions of smallholder farmers - most of whom are women - aren't able to prosper from their land and labor," said Dr. Rajiv Shah, Director of Agricultural Development at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. "We're excited to support this partnership, which will create opportunities for these farmers to sustainably boost their incomes and lift themselves and their families out of hunger and poverty." To date, the foundation has committed more than $1 billion in agricultural development efforts to increase opportunities for small farmers to succeed at every step of the way--from seed to sale.


About the World Cocoa Foundation


Established in 2000, the World Cocoa Foundation is a leader in promoting economic and social development and environmental stewardship in 15 cocoa-producing countries around the world. With nearly 70 member companies from the Americas, Europe and Asia, the Foundation actively supports a range of farm-level programs harnessing sustainable agriculture practices to improve the quality of life for the millions of smallholder farmers growing this unique crop. For more information about the World Cocoa Foundation, visit: www.worldcocoafoundation.org


About the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation


Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, it focuses on improving people's health and giving them the chance to lift themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty. In the United States, it seeks to ensure that all people - especially those with the fewest resources -- have access to the opportunities they need to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, the foundation is led by CEO Jeff Raikes and Co-Chair William H. Gates Sr., under the direction of Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett. Learn more at www.gatesfoundation.org.


About ACDI/VOCA


ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that delivers technical and management assistance in agribusiness, financial services, enterprise development, community development and food security in order to promote broad-based economic growth and vibrant civil society. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy for 45 years and in 145 countries. ACDI/VOCA currently has approximately 80 projects in 40 countries and revenues of approximately $100 million.


About GTZ


As an international cooperation enterprise for sustainable development with worldwide operations, the federally owned Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) GmbH supports the German Government in achieving its development-policy objectives. It provides viable, forward-looking solutions for political, economic, ecological and social development in a globalised world. Working under difficult conditions, GTZ promotes complex reforms and change processes. Its corporate objective is to improve people's living conditions on a sustainable basis. The company works on public benefit.


About the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture


Africa has complex problems that plague agriculture and people's lives. We develop agricultural solutions with our partners to tackle hunger and poverty. Our award winning research for development (R4D) is based on focused, authoritative thinking anchored on the development needs of sub-Saharan Africa. We work with partners in Africa and beyond to reduce producer and consumer risks, enhance crop quality and productivity, and generate wealth from agriculture. IITA is an international non-profit R4D organization since 1967, governed by a Board of Trustees, and supported primarily by the CGIAR.


About SOCODEVI


SOCODEVI is a network of Canadian cooperatives and mutuals that cooperate and share technical expertise and know-how with partners in developing countries in order to create, protect and distribute wealth. Since 1985, SOCODEVI has supported over 500 cooperative and mutual enterprises and organizations in 30 countries. SOCODEVI measures its success by the extent to which the enterprises supported become models for their sustainability and the benefits their activities provide. The ultimate goal of SOCODEVI: improved living conditions for the communities.


About TechnoServe


TechnoServe is leading a movement that empowers people in the developing world to build businesses that break the cycle of poverty. Growing enterprises generate jobs and other income opportunities for poor people, enabling them to improve their lives and secure a better future for their families. Since its founding in 1968, the U.S.-based nonprofit has helped to create or expand thousands of businesses, benefiting millions of people in more than 30 countries. The Financial Times has rated TechnoServe one of the top five NGOs for corporate partnerships. Charity Navigator has also awarded its highest Four Star ranking to TechnoServe.


Source: World Cocoa Foundation

CONTACT: Bill Guyton of World Cocoa Foundation, +1-202-737-7870,
bill.guyton@worldcocoa.org


Web Site: http://www.worldcocoafoundation.org/