TWAA: The New Global Women’s Networking Platform Lifting Communities across Africa Launches Women in Tech Community

PRESS RELEASE

TWAA: The New Global Women’s Networking Platform Lifting Communities across Africa Launches Women in Tech Community

TWAA seeks to create impact in the world of networking, with a focus on tools for community mobilization, content sharing and networking targeting the female economy

Access Multimedia Content

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 31, 2022/ -- Built with safe protocols and features to counter cyber bullying; Set to redefine digital networking as we know it and drive intra Africa trade; Women influencers and communities globally are setting up for “early adopters” advantage; Available on web portal, android app and IOS apps for women worldwide. Irene Kiwia, Founder, Twaa(Source: TWAA | 1 hour ago) TWAA - a mentorship and digital community based social media company arising from Africa – launches a “Women in Tech” community on its platform in a bid to connect women led communities with technology. TWAA seeks to create impact in the world of networking, with a focus on tools for community mobilization, content sharing and networking targeting the female economy. Founded by African media and tech entrepreneur Irene Kiwia, and incubated and invested by leading Pan African venture studio Adanian Labs, TWAA is a platform where women across the world can build groups and manage their communities in a safe space. The platform incorporates multi tools for content creation and sharing; collaboration and co-creation, group management; a marketplace for products and services; group and one-on-one mentorship and much more. “TWAA is built to give women a relevant platform that addresses critical issues in digital networking including data privacy, a by design shield from cyber bullying, inclusivity, accessibility and an overly simplified personal portal that allows women to build and manage their communities more efficiently and effectively - with mentorship being a key component. TWAA is built by women for women, factoring in varied nuances that are specific to what women find as relevant to how they use and interact with technology,” said Irene Kiwia, TWAA founder. TWAA has been in beta (https://bit.ly/3Rs5jXf) mode since October 2020 on its web portal, and the android app version went live in May 2021 with the IOS app launching today. Currently TWAA has over 25,000 members from over 35 countries. It is open to “early adopters” who can benefit from building a solid wave of connections and becoming the platform’s initial set of influencers as the member base grows. “What’s fascinating about TWAA is the fact that it is built to promote inclusivity with women in mind, giving users an exciting user-friendly experience with features that streamline engagement like never before. For the first time ever I feel like I have a platform that ticks the key things that I needed the most in my personal development journey. It’s absolutely empowering!” said Linda Caroline, a TWAA member and Project Manager at Bureau Veritas. ‘I have been managing multiple women communities in various platforms and it’s always been overwhelming to deliver value because everything is super scattered with a user journey that is tiring to both me as a community manager and my network members. TWAA gives me a one stop platform to onboard my groups and interact with each group seamlessly, because the group management tools factor in everything I need to grow and bring value to my group… from members management, a content portal, a marketplace, a video conferencing tool, to networking tools, and all of this within one click.” Said Jane Thomas, a women empowerment champion in South Africa. Even though The TWAA platform is still relatively new, the social media world has shown how quickly networking platforms can grow. We have seen newly launched social apps going viral and becoming global sensations virtually overnight, grossing billion dollars in a short time span. “Our mission at TWAA is to give women digital tools that will help them create massive value for themselves and their communities. We built a platform with women in mind considering issues around safety and cyberbullying, where by design the platform counters that. We also understand how important communities are for women and we have ensured that we give them a platform that will enable them to build and manage communities in a manner that drives value. We are launching a Women in Tech community on TWAA to bring key technology stakeholders along with women in technology to bridge accessibility in terms of capacity, knowledge, information, tools and resources. We foresee a community where women who are looking to join the tech space in Africa are interacting, learning and exchanging value and collaborating”. Here’s what you should know about TWAA, the women's platform that may soon have the female world and female led communities globally interconnected and creating exponential value. On the TWAA platform, members can create groups and invite their communities to join and participate in mentorship, knowledge sharing, video chats, conversations and other forms of collaboration. Members can see other members, their profiles and connect with each other. Members can also set up groups with the person who creates the group taking over the admin rights to set up group protocols. Members can also display their products and services on Store - the in-platform marketplace, set up their speaker’s bio on the speakers’ portal and display books in the book store to ensure that they can be accessed across the world. Members can also interact with the built-in content sharing features including article write-ups, short posts, video posting, photo sharing and podcasts. The content is well segmented to allow members to access video, audio, written and all other content on dedicated portals, with the timeline giving the platform an edge on feature options. Signing up to TWAA is easy. You can access the platform via wwww.twaa.io or download the app on android play store or IOS app store and set up your profile. The biggest appeal for the platform is that it feels like all of one’s favorite platforms and digital tools are fused into one fabulous portal, allowing for seamless interaction at one place. TWAA members can sign up as individuals or as an organization – with a different dashboard experience for each. Several organizations are signing on to the platform including Bureau Veritas, a global leading standardization company who were among the first organizations to use the platform to run an internal capacity building program for the women within their organization. TWAA is also running a campaign to get influencers, content creators, women’s groups, women’s associations and corporates across the world to join the platform and use it as a tool to build a valuable proposition in empowering women across different sectors. The platform can be used as a forum for a range of topics across various sectors and discourse. Be it fashion, beauty, science and technology, innovation, entrepreneurship or any other type of activism, TWAA provides the relevant tools to connect, mobilize, engage and influence. Given the current tech landscape, it is exciting to see an African innovation that is scaling globally, and the future looks promising for TWAA as it grows both in its member base and profile, disrupting the way women connect and interact with social platforms. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of TWAA.   Contact: Margie Mumbi Twaa Community Manager Email: zara@twaa.io   margie@adanianlabs.io Phone No: +254 790 311 102 Follow Twaa: Facebook: https://bit.ly/3KydXBa Twitter: https://bit.ly/3AxWEf6 Instagram: https://bit.ly/3AuVh0y LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3AZZrPp Website: https://TWAA.io/ Download Twaa: Android: Twaa App (https://bit.ly/3KAjBTb) IOS: Twaa IOS App (https://apple.co/3eejW28) SOURCE TWAA

PalmPay Hits 10 Million User Milestone in Nigeria

 

PRESS RELEASE

PalmPay Hits 10 Million User Milestone in Nigeria

The fintech has gained significant traction with its payment’s app and nationwide agency banking network

Access Multimedia Content

LAGOS, Nigeria, August 31, 2022/ -- PalmPay (https://PalmPay.com/), a fintech innovator aiming to make digital payment more accessible and flexible, announced that it has reached 10 million users in Nigeria. This represents a doubling in its user base within just six months and puts its customer numbers in the same league as major institutions only 3 years after the company launched in the market. The fintech, which operates under a Mobile Money Operator license from the Central Bank of Nigeria, has gained significant traction with its payment’s app and nationwide agency banking network. Its proposition of instant financial account creation, fee-free bank transfers and cashback rewards on airtime and bill payments has appealed to Millennial and Gen-Z consumers, who are looking for more affordable banking options and prefer the convenience of a digital-first service. Nowadays PalmPay is processing millions of transactions a day. And around 20% of the company’s customer base report that the PalmPay app was their first financial account, demonstrating that the Mobile Money Operator is contributing to driving progress towards financial inclusion targets in Nigeria, where 36% of the population remains unbanked. Nigerians without smartphones can visit one of PalmPay’s 200,000 mobile money agents across the country, who can transact on their behalf or issue an innovative QR card that can be used to hold a balance. Consumers can also use PalmPay agents to deposit cash to their PalmPay accounts and to withdraw money using their debit cards through PalmPay-branded POS machines. “We are delighted to be able to celebrate this growth milestone and are proud of PalmPay’s track record of making cutting-edge financial services accessible to every Nigerian - including the unbanked.”, said Mr Chika Nwosu, Managing Director, PalmPay Nigeria, "The pandemic has accelerated the shift from cash to digital payments and we are looking forward to continuing to work together with regulators and our partners to innovate to meet the financial needs of consumers." “Our significant growth in Nigeria demonstrates PalmPay’s ability to innovate to meet the financial needs of consumers, and we are looking forward to replicating this success as we scale in more markets across Africa.” said Sofia Zab, PalmPay Global CMO. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of PalmPay.   Media Contact: PalmPay Global Communications press@palmpay-inc.com About PalmPay: PalmPay is a fintech innovator that aims to make digital payment more accessible and flexible for consumers and merchants. We improve users' digital payment experiences by offering instant financial account creation, money transfers, and bill payments. Since launching in 2019, PalmPay has quickly established itself as one of the continent's leading and fastest-growing payment providers with 10 million users and a mobile money agent network of 200,000. PalmPay raised a US$100 million Series A round of funding in August 2021, with US$140 million raised in total. The company is now operating in Nigeria and Tanzania, and will be scaling its proposition in other African markets in 2022. Learn more about PalmPay at https://www.PalmPay.com/ SOURCE PalmPay

August of Enchanting Content

August of Enchanting Content

It has been a busy August for me communicating with some of the biggest film and TV production, acquisition and distribution companies in America, Europe, Australia and India. I have a large catalog of movies, series and documentaries for international theatrical release, TV channels and OTT platforms.
VISION FILMS, INC and Vuulr have premium content. Vuulr has new  buyers and sellers for international film and TV rights of enchanting dramas, comedies, documentaries and animes.

The first MIP Africa held last week from August 24-26, 2022 at the  International Convention Center (CTICC) in Cape Town, South Africa.
MIP Africa had special overviews on South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, and Tanzania with United States of America as the first guest country.
85 exhibitors met with 60 hosted (all expenses paid) buyers, as well as some of 240 “member” buyers.

#mipafrica #filmmakers #buyers #sellers #filmmarket #acquisition
#Nigeria #Africa #Southafrica #Ghana #Tanzania #distribution #TV #movies #series #India #Europe #film #America #Australia #exhibitors #distributors #content #entertainment

H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo to Chair Africa Oil Week 2022

 

PRESS RELEASE

H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo to Chair Africa Oil Week 2022

Strongest presence of Ministers and Government officials – only at Africa Oil Week

Access Multimedia Content

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, August 25, 2022/ -- Africa Oil Week (https://Africa-OilWeek.com) is proud to announce H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo is set to continue his tenure as Chairman of Africa Oil Week for the foreseeable future. The former president of the Republic of Nigeria is continuing as chairman of the leading Oil and Gas event - held in heart of Cape Town to ensure he continues to support regionally. Organised by Hyve Group Plc., Africa Oil Week is the Home of the African Upstream, and this unmissable event will bring leading energy stakeholders together on the 3-7 October in Cape Town under the theme: Sustainable Growth in a Low Carbon World. Having overseen Nigeria’s transition to a representative democracy, Obasanjo is widely considered as one of the continents major statesmen and leaders over the last 50 years. Obasanjo played a leading role in shaping the modern oil industry in Nigeria, introducing policy reforms which have seen the country become an energy superpower. “We’re honoured to have H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo as Chairman of Africa Oil Week. He brings incredible gravitas as returning chairman of our event,” said Paul Sinclair, VP of Energy and Director of Government Relations for Africa Oil Week.  His Excellency is a unique person bringing regional understanding and unapparelled experience in developing marketing conditions to support private sector participation in the natural resources sector, it is this experience that helps Africa Oil Week drive success for regional governments and their partners alike. Obasanjo recently shared his views on Africa’s call for energy security, saying that Africa should be able to take charge of its own energy destiny for the benefit of its people and that it shouldn’t be beholden to the unrealistic ideals of the Global North. It’s for this reason, Africa must follow energy policies that promote socio-economic development, sustainable hydrocarbon use, and, ultimately, take charge of its own energy destiny for the benefit of its people, says Obasanjo. Echoing Obasanjo’s remarks, Sinclair said, “The energy debate doesn’t have to be polarised. As the world grapples with climate change and the broader transition, oil and gas will be needed and we believe Africa and our continent should be allowed to grow. We advocate the development of our resources and we believe technology and carbon management strategies can do this in respect of the environment – we are not ignoring those who are concerned about the environment, indeed we understand the value of renewable energy. It’s a transition, one that is part of the larger goal and continuous journey to decarbonizing infrastructure and reaching net zero. However, for the foreseeable future, oil and gas are definitely needed as the 151 countries in Glasgow COP work towards their revised NDCs. We echo H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo’s candid support for Africa to take control of its energy future and continue to drive strong global partnerships that will benefit both the continent and its partners via responsible development of natural resources,” Sinclair said. Register your interest now to play your role in sustainably developing our industry and Africa via the African upstream. Attend the conference alongside senior delegates and 50+ Ministers and leaders of government: Africa Oil Week 2022 (https://Africa-OilWeek.com) Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Oil Week. Media contact: Amie Sparrow PR Manager amie.sparrow@hyve.group About Africa Oil Week: Africa Oil Week (https://Africa-OilWeek.com) is the meeting place of choice for the continent’s upstream oil and gas sector. Now entering its 28th year, the event brings together governments, national and international oil companies, independents, investors, the G&G community and service providers. Africa Oil Week takes place in heart of Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC2) from the 3-7 October 2022. SOURCE Africa Oil Week

First African-Manufactured Medicine to Prevent Malaria in Pregnant Women and Infants Approved By WHO

PRESS RELEASE

First African-Manufactured Medicine to Prevent Malaria in Pregnant Women and Infants Quality-Approved by World Health Organization (WHO)

Universal Corporation Ltd (UCL), with support from MMV and Unitaid, becomes the first African manufacturer to gain WHO prequalification of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine

GENEVA, Switzerland, August 25, 2022/ -- Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (SP) is a well-tolerated, effective and affordable medicine used to prevent malaria in pregnant women and infants; Nearly all malaria cases and deaths occur in Africa, yet until now, the continent was completely reliant on imported quality-assured SP; This breakthrough responds to the need for local production of quality medicines for use in Africa, a major gap that was critically highlighted when the COVID-19 pandemic left the continent with limited access to vital health products in 2020. Local supply of a medicine used to prevent malaria across Africa received a boost recently, as the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a quality certification to the first African manufacturer of a key antimalarial drug used to prevent infection in pregnant women and children.  Called pre-qualification, this certification will enable Kenyan manufacturer Universal Corporation Ltd (UCL) to support regional efforts to combat malaria through local production of high-quality sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP). UCL’s pre-qualification was achieved with funding from global health agency Unitaid and support from MMV. Pre-qualification is a service provided by WHO to assess the quality, safety and efficacy of medicinal products. Quality assurance of UCL’s SP product Wiwal® opens a route for procurement by global scale-up partners that will improve access and help strengthen Africa’s ability to combat endemic diseases. “Unitaid welcomes the certification of UCL to produce this quality-assured antimalarial medicine in Africa, where about 95% of all illness and death from malaria occurs. Reinforcing local production of medicines where they are needed most is critical to building stronger and more resilient health responses,” said Dr Philippe Duneton, Executive Director of Unitaid. Young children and pregnant women are among the most vulnerable to the burden of malaria, with children under five accounting for 80% of all malaria deaths in Africa. SP is a generally well-tolerated, effective, and affordable medicine used to prevent malaria, yet adequate delivery and scale-up of these interventions are hampered in part by inadequate and unstable supply and, until now, have completely relied on imported or poor-quality drugs. “UCL is committed to supplying the African continent with quality medicines that are most needed by the people who live here. We are not only the first pharmaceutical company to receive pre-qualification of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine in Africa, but one of only five manufacturers in Africa to have received this quality certification for any product. We’re filling a much-needed gap,” said Perviz Dhanani, Founder and Managing Director of UCL. The lack of pre-qualified manufacturers in Africa raises concerns about the quality of medicines and supply insecurities that compromise the treatment of chronic and infectious diseases – risks that were clearly revealed when COVID-19 disrupted global supply chains and left Africa with limited access to vital products. The production of quality medicines on the African continent is critical not only for the safety of Africa’s people but also for supporting regional supply availability and diversification in global production of medicines. Increased supply of SP is crucial to the long-term success of Unitaid’s malaria chemoprevention strategy, which includes nearly US$ 160 million invested to date to optimize and scale up delivery of SP through seasonal delivery and intermittent preventive treatment in pregnant women and infants. With Unitaid funding, MMV is working to strengthen global supply chains and support appropriate use of quality medicines critical to the malaria response. “Researchers and manufacturers from the countries hardest hit by malaria must be at the forefront of efforts to defeat the disease, which is why we welcome this wonderful news,” said David Reddy, MMV’s CEO. “We congratulate Universal Corporation Ltd for becoming the first African manufacturer to receive WHO pre-qualification for SP for the prevention of malaria in pregnant women and infants and are delighted to have partnered with them in this effort.” Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Medicines for Malaria Venture.   Notes for Editors Media Contacts: Elizabeth Poll, Director of Communications MMV Phone +41 79 709 59 92 Email: polle@mmv.org Thalia Bayle, Communications Officer Unitaid Phone: +41 79 660 56 37 Email: baylet@unitaid.who.int Additional quotes “We at Africa CDC gladly welcome the news of Universal Corporation Ltd receiving a WHO Prequalification for sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine,” said Dr Nicaise Ndembi, Africa CDC’s Chief Science Advisor. “This is the result of a remarkable collaborative effort through UCL, MMV and Unitaid, and aligns with our purpose to support public health initiatives and strengthen the capacity of public health institutions.” “The news of Universal Corporation Ltd receiving a WHO Prequalification for sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine is incredible news,” said Ms Joy Phumaphi, Executive Secretary of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance and MMV Board member. “Ensuring the availability and accessibility of quality treatment for underserved communities, particularly women, newborns, and children who are disproportionately at high risk of death from malaria is a critical component to the full realization of the right to health.” Background on the malaria burden According to the latest World Malaria Report (https://bit.ly/3wsvUv4), released on 6 December 2021, there were an estimated 241 million cases of malaria and 627,000 resulting deaths worldwide in 2020. This represents about 14 million more cases in 2020 compared to 2019, and 69,000 more deaths. Approximately two-thirds of these additional deaths (47,000) were linked to disruptions in the provision of malaria prevention, diagnosis and treatment caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.   The WHO African Region continues to carry a disproportionately high share of the global malaria burden. In 2020, the region was home to 95% of all malaria cases and 96% of all deaths. About 80% of all malaria deaths in the region are among children under five years of age. In 2020, six countries accounted for just over half of all malaria deaths worldwide: Nigeria (27%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12%), Uganda (5%), Mozambique (4%), Angola (3%) and Burkina Faso (3%). Background on seasonal malaria chemoprevention, perennial malaria chemoprevention and intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy  There are a number of recommended malaria prevention interventions targeted at those most vulnerable to malaria infection and adverse effects (pregnant women, infants, children) that depend on the accessibility of SP. Adequate supply of SP is crucial to achieving scale up of these interventions to benefit all those at risk across the African continent. Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) is a preventive treatment strategy for children under five living in areas of the Sahel and sub-Sahel at greatest risk of seasonal malaria. It involves administering monthly doses of SP to children during peak malaria season. Unitaid invested US$ 68 million in the first evaluation to determine the effectiveness of SMC on a large scale, a strategy which contributed to a reduction in malaria infections in children of more than 85%. According to the latest World Malaria Report, in 2020, 33 million children were reached with SMC. Perennial malaria chemoprevention (PMC) is another strategy for preventing malaria in infants and children, in areas where malaria transmission is not seasonal. Those belonging to age groups at high risk of severe malaria are recommended to receive antimalarial medicines at predefined intervals to reduce disease burden. Intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) is recommended by WHO in malaria-endemic areas to reduce disease burden in pregnant women. This intervention relies on administration of at least three doses of SP, starting as early as possible in the second trimester and spaced at least one month apart.   Unitaid is currently funding a large-scale project to generate operational evidence that will help implementers scale-up PMC in higher burden areas. This project is building on the success of the recent TIPTOP project, a Unitaid investment that demonstrated innovative ways to reach more women with IPTp across Africa. Background on strengthening local production of medicines and other health technologies to improve access Attaining the highest standard of health is a fundamental right for all. Access to quality‐assured, safe, effective, and affordable medicines and other health technologies for all is a  specific component of the Sustainable Development Goals target 3.81 and in achieving Universal health coverage. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3wsL1Vc   About the partners About Universal Corporation Ltd (UCL): UCL is a Kenyan Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company based in Kikuyu Township, Kiambu County in the Outskirts the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi. The UCL manufacturing plant has been accredited with GMP certification by the local authorities (Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Kenya) and international quality compliance by various DRAs (Drug Regulatory Authorities). Currently, UCL manufactures over 100 formulations of Human medicines. This manufacturing capability is divided as per the dosage forms produced in each line & includes tablets, capsules, ointments, creams & powder (ORS). The long-term plan of the company is to expand its specialty lines to cover all medical specialties. As quality is a major concern, the manufacturing department is manned by highly qualified and trained staff who undergo regular training on GMP procedures. For more information, visit http://UCL.co.ke About Unitaid: Unitaid is a global health agency engaged in finding innovative solutions to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases more quickly, cheaply, and effectively, in low- and middle-income countries. Its work includes funding initiatives to address major diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as HIV co-infections and co-morbidities such as cervical cancer and hepatitis C, and cross-cutting areas, such as fever management. Unitaid is now applying its expertise to address challenges in advancing new therapies and diagnostics for the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as a key member of the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator. Unitaid is hosted by the World Health Organization. For more information, visit http://www.Unitaid.org   About Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV): MMV is a leading product development partnership (PDP) in the field of antimalarial drug research and development. Its mission is to reduce the burden of malaria in disease-endemic countries by discovering, developing and facilitating delivery of new, effective and affordable antimalarial drugs. MMV receives funding and support from government agencies, private foundations, international organizations, corporations, corporate foundations and private individuals. These funds are used to finance MMV’s portfolio of R&D projects, as well as specific, targeted access & product management (APM) interventions that aim to facilitate increased access to malaria medicines by vulnerable populations in disease-endemic countries and support their appropriate use. Since its foundation in 1999, MMV and partners have built the largest portfolio of antimalarial R&D and access projects ever assembled and have brought forward 13 new medicines. Almost 3 million lives have been saved by these MMV co-developed medicines. MMV's success is based on its extensive partnership network of around 150 active partners including from the pharmaceutical industry, academia and endemic countries.  MMV's vision is a world in which innovative medicines will cure and protect the vulnerable and under-served populations at risk of malaria, and help to ultimately eradicate this terrible disease. For more information, visit http://www.MMV.org MMV Disclaimer: This document contains certain forward-looking statements that may be identified by words such as ‘believes’, ‘expects’, ‘anticipates’, ‘projects’, ‘intends’, ‘should’, ‘seeks’, ‘estimates’, ‘future’ or similar expressions, or by discussion of, among other things, vision, strategy, goals, plans, or intentions. It contains hypothetical future product target profiles, development timelines and approval/launch dates, positioning statements, claims and actions for which the relevant data may still have to be established. Stated or implied strategies and action items may be implemented only upon receipt of approvals including, but not limited to, local institutional review board approvals, local regulatory approvals, and following local laws and regulations. Thus, actual results, performances or events may differ from those expressed or implied by such statements.   We ask you not rely unduly on these statements. Such forward-looking statements reflect the current views of Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) and its partner(s) regarding future events and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties.    MMV accepts no liability for the information presented here, nor for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of this information. Furthermore, MMV accepts no liability for the decisions made by its pharmaceutical partner(s), the impact of any of their decisions, their earnings and their financial status. SOURCE Medicines for Malaria Venture

Canon R Tour in Nigeria to Launch our Flagship R System Models and Experiential Opportunities To Test Drive It's Revolutionary Mirrorless Range of Products

Canon Central and North Africa is set to embark on the Canon R Tour journey to Nigeria that falls in line with the company’s vision to bring together the finest imaging technology solutions to the continent of Africa. Through the R tour, Canon is also launching its revolutionary mirrorless range of products for the first time in Nigeria – the EOS R3, EOS R5 C, EOS R7, and EOS R10. 

L-R: Mr. Amine Djouahra, Mr. Daniel Ehimen, Ms. Yagazie Eguare Mr. Emmanuel Oyeleke, and Ms. Olive Emodi (2)

(Source: Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) 

Canon hosted a Masterclass with Canon Certified trainer Austen Udoh, on its renowned mirrorless products, followed by an open exhibition that put on display some of Canon’s best products for the audiences to touch and try on August 23^rd, 2022. Furthermore, photography workshops will also be held on 24^th and 25^th August 2022 with Canon photographers who will shine light on their best tips and tricks to use Canon’s revolutionary full-frame R system lineup. Starting on August 24^th, the photography workshops will commence with Canon ambassador Emanuel Oyeleke putting the spotlight on Canon EOS R3, followed by photographer Victor Modo on EOS R3, and finally, conclude on August 25^th with PRO influencer Daniel Ehimen on EOS R5C.

Access Multimedia Content

The EOS R3 offers all the familiarity and speed of Canon’s celebrated EOS-1 series, with the innovation and versatility of the pioneering EOS R System whereas the EOS R5 C is a powerful, hybrid cinema camera that combines the professional filmmaking features of the Cinema EOS range with the EOS R System’s photo capabilities.

Connecting, Communicating & Co-creating

Centering its vision of getting closer to its customers and imaging community in Nigeria, Canon has set up various experiential booths to facilitate audiences in getting an authentic experience of the Canon universe. A total of five different experiential booths promises a thrilling ride for the participants. The R series & Pro Printer booth will put on display the Canon R series line-up along with its different accessories as well as showcase the brilliance of the PRO printers through a live photoshoot and printing experience. The Canon Showroom will spark curiosity among visitors for Canon’s high-end DSLR range, the lineup of its Cinema products, along with Inkjet and laser printers. Likewise, the Documentary Production Booth will offer an exciting experience to avid documentary filmmakers and cinematographers by simulating a food documentary experience, while action and sports photography enthusiasts can experience diverse photography techniques to capture split-second moments at the action booth where it will showcase an exhilarating fast-paced aerial act performance. Lastly, there will also be a Service Check and Clean booth, where audiences can get their Canon gear checked and cleaned by professionals.

“The objective behind setting up these different booths is for our end users, enthusiasts and customers, and media to really get up close and personal with Canon products to gather all the knowledge, and additional tips and tricks they need to use their Canon products optimally. We truly practice what we preach, and the R-tour is a living testimony of Canon’s commitment to get closer to its customers. It gives us an opportunity to connect, learn, teach, communicate, and co-create with our passionate end users who are as eager to interact with us, as we are with them. The roaring success of our previous R-tours in Africa highlights the mammoth efforts taken by Canon to build long-lasting relationships with our consumers,” remarked Amine Djouahra, Director of Sales and Marketing, Canon Central and North Africa.

“Nigeria is a land of creativity and is home to the second biggest film industry in the world, there is absolutely no doubt that the country needs best-in-class photography and videography products and that’s precisely what we do. Canon and Nigeria are a perfect match for each other, and I know that this R-tour will help us fortify this bond of creativity even further,” he continues.

The last day of Canon’s R-tour in Nigeria, August 25^th will witness the first ever African Canon Creators Summit, where content creators will be invited to learn and exchange knowledge on the nitty-gritties of content creation. The space will also help participants to better understand the significance of imaging and using the right equipment and tools to achieve the right outcome. The summit will also host a panel discussion on ‘The importance of quality content creation and how it can grow industries. In addition, content creators will be part of future local creator summits along with a performance-based opportunity to attend Canon Creator Summit in Dubai, and exclusive product offers to purchase Canon products.  

Spreading Goodness – Project Ire

Canon will commence its Project Ire through R-tour with a vision to support and sustain a year-long collaboration with influencers that are spreading goodness and giving back to their respective communities by generating awareness through their art-forms. Canon will collaborate with influencers that include Mofe Bamuyiwa, George Okoro, Princemeyson, Eleanor Goodey, Bedge, Aham Ibeleme and Gazmadu. Coinciding with the Canon’s Kyosei philosophy that stands for working and living together for the common good, the word ‘Ire’ stands for goodness and thus Project Ire will focus on bringing the goodness out of Canon’s avant-garde technology to further the cause of spreading goodness for different communities in Nigeria. The chosen influencers will be exclusively offered the opportunity to test drive Canon’s mirrorless line-up of products, along with a range of online and/or offline masterclasses in a bid to propel the wave of storytelling in Nigeria. Images captured by the influencers who are part of Project Ire will be printed on Canon Pro 300 Printer at the University of Lagos.

The Spirit of Storytelling

As part of the R-tour, Canon will also be announcing a partnership with Shuttersnetwork – a photo community based in Abuja, Nigeria in an endeavor to promote the spirit of storytelling through community engagement, content creation, and social media awareness. Canon’s online activities to generate community engagement in the Shuttersnetwork will include photo competitions, live sessions on Shutter’s network community page along with online panel discussions and masterclasses whereas the offline activities will include photo walks and physical masterclasses. Additionally, photography and videography campaigns and training will also be held by Canon to facilitate creation of inspirational content, along with the availability of Canon’s demonstration products for the network.

Canon Central and North Africa has successfully launched its R-tour previously in Morocco, Egypt and Kenya and intends to continue this journey of building relationships by getting closer to its customers throughout the African continent.

Click here (https://bit.ly/3dObyWK) for more details to join the Generation R Hub community!

For more information on EOS R3: here! (https://bit.ly/3R9BKcz)

For more information on EOS R5C: here! (https://bit.ly/3cbPZ25)

For more information on EOS R7: here! (https://bit.ly/3wr1ZDL)

For more information on EOS R10: here! (https://bit.ly/3wqrCEE)

For more information on Powershot Zoom: here! (https://bit.ly/3AfKXcN)

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

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

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

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (
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://bit.ly/2VHJyeU) – ‘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: Canon-CNA.com

SOURCE
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA)

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. 

A Copy of the NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Sold for Over N1 Million

https://a.co/d/6swXgCI

The first edition of the NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series has become a collectors' item among art collectors of unique books and now selling for US$1, 882.91 which is equivalent to more than N1, 100, 000 with the current exchange rate of the US dollar to the naira 

Why is it a highly priced book?

* This is the first edition of the first book series on Nollywood and the Nigerian film industry.

* The articles and photographs document the genesis of the phenomenon of Nollywood and the history of filmmaking in Nigeria since the first feature, "Palaver" directed by Geoffrey Barkas in 1926. 

* The fonts are unconventional and  seen as art form.

* The prophetic cover of the photograph of Kenneth Gyang, whose film, "Confusion Na Wa" starring Ramsey Nouah, OC Ukeje, Ali Nuhu and Tunde Aladese won the coveted awards for the Best Film and the Best Nigerian Film at the 9th annual Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) in 2013.  Kenneth Gyang has become the poster child of the Big Picture of the future of Nollywood and Nigerian cinema on Netflix and international film festivals.

#Nigeria #Nollywood #africa #future #art #art #filmmaking #AMAA #movies #awards #KennethGyang #filmfestivals
#netflix #books #collectors

Nollywood Mirror by Ekenyerengozi, Michael Chima (2013) Paperback https://a.co/d/6swXgCI

False Alarm of Pirate Attack By Motor Tanker HEROIC IDUN and Her Subsequent Arrest at Equatorial Guinea

 17 August 2022.

FALSE ALARM OF PIRATE ATTACK BY MOTOR TANKER HEROIC IDUN (IMO: 9858058) AND HER SUBSEQUENT ARREST AT EQUATORIAL GUINEA: A SIGN OF RENEWED COOPERATION AND COLLABORATION BETWEEN GULF OF GUINEA NATION

On Sunday 7 August 2022, personnel of the Nigerian Navy on routine patrol had observed and reported the suspicious presence of Motor Tanker (MT) HEROIC IDUN in Akpo Oil Field, Deep Offshore Bonny. The Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) with IMO Number: 9858058 is a 336 metre long tanker with carrying capacity of 299,995 MT. It is reportedly owned by Hunter Tankers AS, domiciled in Scandinavia, Norway, but operated by Trafigura Maritime Logistics situated in the Netherlands. The vessel had arrived the Total Safe Anchorage (SA) operated by Akpo Oil Field for loading operations but was interrogated by the Nigerian Navy and later observed to be without NNPC due clearance for the loading operations. Notwithstanding, MT HEROIC IDUN proceeded for the loading operation at the Akpo Single Buoy Mooring (SBM) on 8 August 2022.

Having not produced her NNPC clearance papers for the loading operation, MT HEROIC IDUN was stopped from proceeding further by Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA. The Captain of MT HEROIC IDUN then revealed that he was instructed by his ship’s agent, Messrs Inchape Shipping (owners of IDUN Maritime Limited) not to obey any directive from the Nigerian Navy. The VLCC subsequently resisted arrest when ordered to stop by NNS GONGOLA and the supertanker escaped towards the Nigeria – Sao Tome Joint Development Zone Area. In a bid to be mischievous and justify her escape, MT HEROIC IDUN reported her encounter with NNS GONGOLA as a sea robbery/pirate attack on various international maritime security watch platforms. This false alarm of sea robbery/pirate attack was also revealed and refuted by the Head of the Regional Centre for Maritime Security for West Africa, Abidjan, Rear Admiral Istifanus Albarra who mentioned that, ‘on 9 August 2022, the Regional Centre (CRESMAO) received a report from the Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone E on an attempted boarding of a Tanker between 10 to 15 Nautical Mile (Nm) of Akpo oil field in Nigeria. The Vessel, a Marshall Island registered VLCC HEROIC IDUNIN (IMO 98580581) entered Nigerian waters with the intention to load crude oil from the Akpo offshore oil terminal. Upon the receipt of intelligence that the vessel did not have necessary approval to load crude oil from the terminal, the Nigerian Navy dispatched a vessel to go and investigate. Investigation through radio communication with the vessel, revealed that the Tanker did not have the appropriate documentation for the intended purpose.’

The Head of CRESMAO confirmed that the Captain of the Tanker refused to cooperate and rather altered course towards Sao-Tome and Principe and later deliberately raised false alarm to the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) that she was under pirate attack. This information was subsequently broadcasted by IMB to the relevant international authorities and stakeholders. The Admiral noted that, “arising from the foregoing, it is very important that incidences, especially of piracy reported by vessels needs to be crossed checked with the relevant authorities (particularly the Yaounde Architecture) to authenticate the veracity or otherwise before broadcast. This is in order not to raise false alarms especially at this time when the Gulf of Guinea maritime domain has recorded a drastic reduction in maritime incidences as compared to 2 years ago. IMB therefore is entreated to cancel this alert broadcast, coordinate with the appropriate authorities and put out the right information”.

As a demonstration of the renewed cooperation and collaboration among the Gulf of Guinea nations, the Nigerian Navy welcomed with much satisfaction, the news of the arrest of MT HEROIC IDUN by the Equatorial-Guinean Navy (EGN) on 12 

August 2022 barely 4 days after the supertanker assumed she had evaded arrest by the Nigerian Navy and also made false alarm of a sea robbery/pirate attack that never happened. “Equatorial Guinea stopped the MV HEROIC IDUN on the afternoon of 12 August 2022, offshore the Island of Annobon,” according to Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue. The EGN escorted the vessel to Luba, arriving on 13 August 2022.

This occurrence reaffirms the renewed regional commitment, collaboration and coordination toward a safe and secured Gulf of Guinea maritime domain that will ensure the development of a sustainable blue economy, as well as the realisation of the goals of the Yaoundé Architecture. It is also a strong warning to criminals, their sponsors and connivers that the Nigerian Navy will leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s Maritime Environment (NME) as well as the observance of due process and extant regulations by all maritime stakeholders within the NME.  

You are please requested to disseminate this.

- AO AYO-VAUGHAN
​Commodore
​Director of Information

The Heroic Rescue of Nue Swift

The Heroic Rescue of Nue Swift

A Nigerian- Flagged Surfer Crew Boat, called Nue Swift, was heroically rescued on the 5th of July 2022 by a Nigerian Navy warship, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Okpabana. Nue Swift with International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Number 006050675, is a crew boat owned by Nue Offshore Limited, used to ferry oil workers between terminals, vessels and other installations. 

On the 4th of July 2022, the Nue Swift, under command of Captain Loveday Amakiri left Warri port for Single Buoy Mooring (SBM3) at Bonny. The boat with a crew of 5 Nigerians experienced total machinery failure, and ended up drifting. The Chief Engineer made spirited efforts to rectify the faults to no avail. The crew endured being at the mercy of the rough weather, associated with the rainy season which peaked at Sea State 4. The crew made several distress calls, but received no response. After several hours drifting on the high seas, the crew's distress call received a response from NNS Okpabana. The warship requested the location of the Nue Swift and asked for details of the crew. 

The rescue was eventually executed at about 2pm on 5th July 2022 and the crew of Nue Swift were relieved after their 32 hour ordeal of being in distress. The warship towed the Nue Swift all the way from the point of rescue to the Bonny anchorage area. The crew were subjected to medical evaluation and counselling by the Navy medical team. The next morning, the boat and its crew were handed over to the Navy’s Forward Operations Base at Bonny, from where the company’s representatives came to receive them on the 6th July 2022. 

Commanded by Navy Captain Oluseyi Oladipo, NNS Okpabana is a 115 metre long vessel donated to the Nigerian Navy by the United States Government in 2014.  The ship used to be known as United States Coast Guard Cutter Gallatin. NNS Okpabana, which is the sister ship of NNS Thunder, has been involved in several operational missions in and around the Gulf of Guinea. Notably, in 2016, NNS Okpabana rescued a merchant ship, MT Maximus, from pirates who had hijacked her and taken her to Sao Tome and Principe waters.

Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) represents Nigeria at the IMO and coordinates all Flag State actions including Maritime Search and Rescue. To enhance efficiency, NIMASA enjoys a robust working partnership with the Nigerian Navy. This partnership needs to be leveraged in order to enhance maritime search and rescue in Nigeria.