African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 Africa-Europe Roundtable to Discuss the Competing Priorities and Potential Collaboration

 

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African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 Africa-Europe Roundtable to Discuss the Competing Priorities and Potential Collaboration

During African Energy Week 2023, a spotlight will be placed on the collaborative efforts between Africa and Europe in achieving global energy security while facilitating a just transition

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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 18, 2023/ -- The global energy landscape is at a crossroads, with Europe and Africa facing distinct yet intertwined challenges in their pursuit of sustainable development. As the African Energy Week (AEW) approaches, the stage is set for a critical discussion on the delicate balancing act required to harmonize Europe's renewable energy aspirations with Africa's drive towards oil and gas-powered industrialization. At the upcoming Africa-Europe Roundtable Discussion to be held at AEW - scheduled for October 16-20 in Cape Town - participants will delve into the complexities of these competing priorities, highlighting the need for collaboration and innovative solutions. Historically, Africa has been heavily reliant on external financial assistance for its energy projects, rendering it susceptible to shifts in global policies and investment trends. While foreign aid has facilitated advancements in renewable energy, Africa's untapped oil and gas reserves, comprising a staggering 620 trillion cubic feet of gas and 125.3 billion barrels of oil, hold the potential to revolutionize the continent's energy landscape and spur sustainable economic growth. The imperative here is to transition away from aid dependency towards commercial relationships that enable Africa to harness its own energy potential. In recent times, Europe has shown a strong commitment to transitioning towards renewable energy sources. This shift is driven by growing environmental concerns and the global push for decarbonization. A notable example is the EU's Africa-EU Green Energy Initiative, a forward-thinking framework with three key objectives: improving access to affordable and environmentally friendly energy, promoting investment in renewable energy projects, and encouraging community involvement while ensuring financial backing. While investing in renewable energy in Africa is crucial for the continent's decarbonization goals, Africa also remains determined to utilize its substantial oil and gas reserves to drive economic growth and industrialization. This contrast in priorities has created a distinct challenge, demanding a considerate and strategic approach to achieve mutual progress while effectively tackling energy security and climate change issues. Amidst the turmoil of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a notable paradigm shift occurred as Europe found itself compelled to explore alternative energy sources, such as African gas and coal imports, underlining the intricate interdependence of these continents and its energy resources. This scenario reinforces the imperative for open dialogues and cooperative strategies to address shared energy challenges. While Europe's emphasis on renewable projects is undeniable, the partnership between European companies and African counterparts has been pivotal in advancing oil and gas initiatives. Collaborative efforts such as TotalEnergies' involvement in the Egina deepwater field in Nigeria and Eni's projects across several African nations, notably Mozambique’s Coral Sul, exemplify the positive impact of such partnerships. Beyond mere energy production, these ventures contribute to job creation, skills development, and economic empowerment, aligning with Africa's drive for industrialization. Meanwhile, nations like Tanzania and Mozambique are positioning themselves as vital players in Europe's search for alternative gas sources. With visionary offshore projects and forthcoming liquefied natural gas (LNG) initiatives, these countries are poised to cater to Europe's energy demands in the near future. This emerging synergy reinforces the importance of Africa's resources in Europe's quest for energy diversification. As the Africa-Europe Roundtable Discussion at AEW approaches, the focus is on fostering comprehensive dialogue between African executives and European investors. This platform transcends traditional aid frameworks, aiming to establish mutually beneficial commercial collaborations that address Africa's energy needs while offering lucrative opportunities to European investors. The roundtable's significance is paramount, as it not only tackles immediate energy challenges but also catalyzes broader economic growth and trade between the two continents. The balancing act between Europe's renewable agenda and Africa's oil and gas ambitions is complex but not insurmountable. The Africa-Europe Roundtable discussion at AEW stands as a pivotal moment in shaping this collaborative journey. By navigating these competing priorities and fostering strategic partnerships, both continents can pave the way for sustainable energy, economic growth, and global cooperation. AEW is the AEC’s annual conference, exhibition and networking event. AEW 2023 will unite African energy policymakers and stakeholders with global investors to discuss and maximize opportunities within the continent’s entire energy industry. For more information about AEW 2023, visit https://AECWeek.com Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber. SOURCE African Energy Chamber

African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 Welcomes UTM Offshore as Official Sponsor of the Invest in Nigeria Energies Spotlight

 

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African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 Welcomes UTM Offshore as Official Sponsor of the Invest in Nigeria Energies Spotlight

The African Energy Chamber is proud to announce UTM Offshore as the official sponsor of the Invest in Nigeria Energies forum, taking place during African Energy Week 2023

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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 18, 2023/ -- As Nigeria’s energy sector grows, service companies are playing an increasingly more important role in driving the sustainable development of the energy value chain. Companies such as UTM Offshore, a Nigerian-based marine and logistics services company, have and will continue to be instrumental in supporting the sustainable growth of the industry while advancing energy access and industrialization.  In this regard, the African Energy Chamber (AEC), representing the voice of the African energy sector, is proud to announce that Nigerian marine and logistics services provider UTM Offshore is the official sponsor of the Invest in Nigeria Energies country spotlight session at the African Energy Week (AEW) conference. AEW represents the continent's premier event for the energy sector and is scheduled to take place from 16-20 October in Cape Town. UTM Offshore’s sponsorship of the Nigerian country spotlight session follows the company joining the conference as a Platinum Sponsor, and is a testament to the commitment of UTM Offshore to spearhead discussions and deals in Nigeria’s energy market. With Nigeria prioritizing the development of its 200 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas reserves for a just and inclusive energy transition, the role of companies such as UTM Offshore continues to grow. Natural gas represents a priority resource for the government, owing largely to its sustainability and availability, and UTM Offshore is committed to expanding the domestic gas market. Since the company’s establishment in 2012, UTM Offshore has played a central role in developing, managing and deploying solutions for the maritime and oil services sectors in West Africa. The company has prioritized partnerships with regional and global energy companies and investors as part of a broader strategy to accelerate the penetration of new investments in Africa’s energy sector. With a focus on delivering sustainable solutions for the monetization of energy resources in Africa, UTM Offshore works towards advancing energy security and socioeconomic development. One of the company’s largest gas developments underway is the UTM Offshore-led Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) project, located in Akwa Ibom State. Representing the first FLNG deployed in the country, the project will enhance gas monetization in Nigeria. In December 2021, the company signed an agreement with the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) for the provision of $5 billion in funding to develop the project. Following the initial deal, the firm also partnered with global engineering and services firms including JGC Corporation, Technip Energies and Kellogg Brown & Root to fast-track the project’s deployment. In July 2023, UTM Offshore and Afreximbank inked the preparation facility agreement for the project. In addition to pioneering the FLNG project, UTM Offshore plays a key role in accelerating infrastructure development in Nigeria through the provision of world-class and innovative marine and logistics services. UTM Offshore’s distinguished role as a platinum sponsor for AEW 2023, coupled with their esteemed position as the official sponsor of the Invest in Nigeria Energies session, is a testament to its commitment to driving investments and empowering the future of Nigeria’s energy industry. “UTM Offshore’s commitment towards the expansion of Nigeria’s economy has paved the way for the development of critical facilities and infrastructure. By pioneering the country’s first FLNG project, UTM Offshore is spearheading Nigeria’s just energy transition, and other African energy companies stand to learn a great deal from UTM Offshore,” stated NJ Ayuk, the Executive Chairman of the AEC. As the official sponsor of the Invest in Nigeria Energies spotlight at AEW 2023, UTM Offshore will participate in high-level panel discussions, presentations, and exclusive networking and deal signings, showcasing the company’s strategic plan within Nigeria’s burgeoning energy sector. The country spotlight takes place under the AEW 2023 umbrella theme, "The African Energy Renaissance: Prioritizing Energy Poverty, People, the Planet, Industrialization, and Free Markets," and will unveil a spectrum of investment and partnership prospects within the West African country. AEW is the AEC’s interactive exhibition and networking event uniting African energy stakeholders, driving industry growth and development, and promoting Africa as the destination for African-focused events. For more information about sponsorship, attendance, and partnership opportunities, visit www.AECWeek.com Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber. SOURCE African Energy Chamber

Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe To Deliver Keynote at Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) 2023 Conference in November in Kigali

 

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Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe To  Deliver Keynote at Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) 2023 Conference in November in Kigali

Dr. Moloi-Motsepe is the Co-founder of the Motsepe Foundation, one of the largest foundations on the continent

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CAPE TOWN, South Africa, August 17, 2023/ -- The Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) (https://www.AWIEForum.org) has confirmed that esteemed South African businesswoman, philanthropist, and fashion entrepreneur, Precious Moloi-Motsepe will deliver a keynote address at the 2023 edition of their prestigious annual AWIEF Conference and Awards. AWIEF2023 Conference and Awards will take place on 9 and 10 November 2023 at the Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali, Rwanda, in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and Innovation of Rwanda, Private Sector Federation (PSF) Rwanda – Specialized Cluster, and Rwanda Convention Bureau. Dr. Moloi-Motsepe is the Co-founder of the Motsepe Foundation, one of the largest foundations on the continent. The work of the Foundation is aligned to 12 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined by the United Nations, demonstrating its commitment to promoting sustainable development and making a positive impact on the continent. She is also the Chancellor of the University of Cape Town, and the Founder of African Fashion International (AFI), a globally affiliated enterprise that champions African creatives and facilitates their entrance into global markets. Currently in its 9th year, the award-winning AWIEF Conference is Africa's leading entrepreneurship event and provides a powerful platform for bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders in the African entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem for high-level discussions on Africa's economic development challenges and proffering inclusive solutions. By bringing together a pan-African and international representation of business owners, leaders, and communities, the AWIEF event promotes intra-Africa trade, shines a light on achievements and acts as a catalyst to network, share knowledge, engage in dialogue, and learn from experts and peers across the continent’s borders and beyond. With the theme Leveraging the Power of the Digital Economy: Innovate, Redefine, Empower, this year’s event aims to boost inclusivity, enhance partnerships, and empower startups and enterprises in the digital economy. About her participation in AWIEF2023, Dr. Moloi-Motsepe said: “If we work together and act decisively, we can attain gender equality in our lifetimes. Using the power of the digital economy to drive African female entrepreneurship and innovation is a key dimension of this journey. I am excited about AWIEF2023, and proud to be a participant. Let’s use the opportunity to meet, learn, collaborate, and inspire, and in so doing build the momentum we need to empower all the women of Africa.” Irene Ochem, AWIEF Founder and CEO said: “We are honoured and excited at the participation of Dr. Moloi-Motsepe in AWIEF2023, an exemplary global philanthropist and businesswoman. She is a leading advocate and driving force for the advancement of women in leadership and gender equality and serves as an inspirational figure and role model for women in business.” Dr. Moloi-Motsepe joins a powerful global speaker faculty for AWIEF2023, including H. E. Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation, Rwanda, Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura, Secretary General, FIFA, Clare Akamanzi, CEO, Rwanda Development Board, Cosmas Zavazava, Chief of Department, Partnerships for Digital Development, International Telecommunication Union, Yvonne Manzi Makolo, CEO, RwandAir and Chairperson, Board of Governors, IATA, and Eleanor Nwadinobi, President, Medical Women's International Association (MWIA). To register for AWIEF2023, follow this link: https://apo-opa.info/3OHNxPI Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF).   Media enquiries: Riana Andrews Email: info@awieforum.org SOURCE Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF)

Afrobeats’ Star Ruger to Perform at African Energy Week's (AEW) Just Energy Transition Concert with a Call to Make Energy Poverty History

 

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Afrobeats’ Star Ruger to Perform at African Energy Week's (AEW) Just Energy Transition Concert with a Call to Make Energy Poverty History

It is with immense excitement that the African Energy Chamber reveals Ruger as one of the esteemed performers for the forthcoming Just Energy Transition Concert

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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 17, 2023/ -- In anticipation of Africa's premier energy event, African Energy Week (AEW) 2023, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org) is thrilled to introduce Ruger as a headline artist for the Just Energy Transition Concert on October 16, 2023, at Cape Town's Cabo Beach Club. This exciting concert blends music and the energy sector, uniting individuals from diverse fields to celebrate progress towards a sustainable world. Ruger, known for hit tracks like "Bounce," skyrocketed to fame with chart-topping success. His unique Afro-dancehall style combines Afrobeats and dancehall elements, shaping his distinct musical identity. Ruger's songs, including "Dior," have garnered millions of views and streams, showcasing his talent for crafting resonant hits. As Ruger takes centre stage, his presence signifies more than just a captivating performance. His influence aligns perfectly with the AEC’s vision to encourage and engage youth participation at AEW. By having Ruger at the event, the AEC aims to inspire meaningful discussions about Africa's energy landscape, fostering empowerment and ownership among the youth. “We are excited to feature Ruger at the Just Energy Transition Concert. This significant event aligns with AEW23's focus on prioritizing energy poverty, well-being, sustainability, industrialization, and championing free markets. Ruger's performance will undoubtedly bring his artistic brilliance to the atmosphere, inspiring young individuals to actively engage in the ongoing dialogue about a just energy transition in Africa. We invite all to join us in celebrating this remarkable fusion of music and energy discourse” states Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo, African Energy Chamber advisory board member. As participants eagerly anticipate AEW 2023, they can look forward to the vibrant energy and electrifying performance Ruger, and other artists, are set to bring to the stage, creating an unforgettable experience that that resonates with the event's mission of driving sustainable energy solutions and positive change. This concert provides an exclusive platform, inviting energy stakeholders and music enthusiasts to converge and engage in energy-related discussions. By intertwining music and the energy sector, the Just Energy Transition Concert carves a unique niche as an innovative venture. AEW is the AEC’s annual conference, exhibition and networking event uniting African energy policymakers and stakeholders with global investors to discuss the opportunities across the continent’s energy industry. For more information about AEW 2023, visit www.AECWeek.com Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber. SOURCE African Energy Chamber

VOGUE September 2023 : Naomi, Cindy, Linda and Christy: The Return of the Supers - Behind the Scenes Video

 

Naomi, Cindy, Linda & Christy: The Return of the Supers - Behind the Scenes of the September Issue (VOGUE.com)

All people in this work:

Posy Dixon - Director

Edward Enninful - Fashion Editor/Stylist

Eugene Souleiman - Hair Stylist

Adam Fleischhauer - Makeup Artist

Stephane Marais - Makeup Artist

Taylor Horne - Set Designer

Candice Idehen - Manicurist

Megumi Yamamoto - Manicurist

Christy Turlington - Model

Cindy Crawford - Model

Linda Evangelista - Model

Naomi Campbell - Model

Anna Wintour - Self

Edward Enninful - Self

Rafael Pavarotti - Self

Alexandra Gurvitch - Other

https://models.com/work/voguecom-naomi-cindy-linda--christy-the-return-of-the-supers---behind-the-scenes-of-the-september-issue

Nollywood Versus Hollywood at the Cinemas in Nigeria

Nollywood Versus Hollywood at the Cinemas in Nigeria

"UNFORGIVABLE" is still on the top 20 box office movies showing at the cinemas in Nigeria. The daring drama on illicit sex, rape and court trial is for adults only.
Kisses n Roses, a Nigerian adult blog is showing the uncensored trailer which is also on YouTube.

There are millions of adults who will rush to watch the movie, but there are not enough cinemas for Nollywood movies in Nigeria.
The film distributors prefer Hollywood movies, because of the popular hype for them.
"Barbie" is over hyped and is the #1 Hollywood film in Nigeria.

"Orisa" is the #1 Nollywood movie. An epic Yoruba drama of mysticism, war and heroism.

FilmOne Limited has the largest cinemas in Nigeria and shows more of their own Nollywood and Hollywood movies than movies from other distributors that I cannot call competitors, because they cannot compete with FilmOne in film distribution in Nigeria.

With a population of over 200 million people, the cinemas are not up to 400 in about 70 locations in the most populous country in Africa.
There are states without a single cinema!

There should be a cinema in every neighbourhood in Nigeria like viewing centres with affordable tickets from N500 - N1, 000 per seat.

Cinewav of Singapore has offered  affordable solutions to make cinemas available in over 2, 000 locations in Nigeria. But the film distributors and exhibitors still want to have cinemas only in enclosures indoors at the upscale shopping malls in middle class locations for only the middle class and upper class people.

Growing Demand for Cinemas in Nigeria - BBC News

https://www.bbc.com/news/av/business-48480401

0.4 cinema screens to 100,000 people is very small for millions of movie lovers in Nigeria and the present locations of the few movie theatres are not the most appropriate in terms of demographics, because more thousands of people drive for miles to get to the nearest movie theatres, because they don’t have anyone in their local government areas.

Cinewav can roll out cinemas to the people in their local government areas in Lagos and other conducive and receptive locations in Nigeria. The Ikoyi Club, Ikeja Country Club, Metropolitan Club, Capital Club and other clubs can have Cinewav cinema outdoors and in halls every weekend.

There are more than 50 million people who can afford tickets for $1 per seat in cinemas.
We can have up to 50, 000 cinemas in Nigeria if investors can invest in the installations of low budget affordable cinemas for the majority of Nigerians in every neighbourhood in the country.
Let us bring cinemas closer to the majority of the people.

- By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima,
The Publisher/Editor,
NOLLYWOOD MIRROR ® Series distributed by Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other booksellers.

#unforgivable
#barbie
#nollywood
#hollywood
#cinemas
#movies
#distributors
#boxoffice
#cinewav
#shoppingmalls
#filmdistribution
#distributors
#exhibitors

Letter To Nollywood

I received good replies from intelligent and wise people who read the firrst important and timely letter I wrote to NOLLYWOOD. The following is an updated version of it 

As written in 

◄ Proverbs 11:14 ►

"For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers."

The wisdom of the world is nothing to the Wisdom of God.

It is important to accept wise counsel.

I have updated this message, because a big insurance company told me last week that when the company wanted to support Nollywood, the President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) of over a decade ago and the leadership of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) antagonized each other and refused to cooperate on the program. So, the company left and never wanted to support Nollywood again.

When I recommended that AMP should be changed to the appropriate Producers Guild of Nigeria (PGN), it is for the best interests of the Nigerian film industry. 

Intrigues and shenanigans are childish and foolish in professional bodies.

Unprofessional practices have actually caused the untimely demise of several actors and producers in Nollywood without any insurance policy.

The good news is: I have attracted another multinational company in the entertainment industry and I have already recommended a thorough seasoned professional in Nollywood to them. Because, she is above aboard; a woman of substance; a woman of dignity, integrity and nobility of over 40 years professional experience in the Nigerian film industry; from the cradle of Nollywood, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) where I also started my career and was paying my monthly tax from the age of 17, when I was earning N400 monthly for four years before going on to work for the John Hopkins University''s Population Communication Services (JHU/PCS) at 21 as a public health illustrator and later as a translator (through which I paid, the Nollywood actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo to do translation of English into Igbo for the family planning methods booklets fully illustrated by me for the whole Nigeria. I met him at the Radio Nigeria office in Ikoyi, Lagos).

Finally, from a dialogue in my "Once Upon a Time in Nollywood":

Even if you are driving a stolen car in Nollywood since 2010 to date, do your best to drive it well and maintain it, so that people will not even know the truth. I will even enjoy the jolly ride with you and your passengers 😀.  

PS: 

For those who are good enough for the production of documentary films, funding is available for you.

I don't know if anyone applied for the Sundance Documentary Fund I mentioned before the closing date. If you did not apply, you can apply for the 2024 round closing in April.

https://apply.sundance.org/res/p/2023dfpfaq

The Sundance Institute was funded by the MacArthur Foundation.

If you have a film festival with a film institute or foundation, you can apply for the establishment.

We need a Nollywood Museum for the Nigerian film industry from the making of the first feature, "Palaver" of 1926 to date.

See details on The MacArthur Foundation grants.

100&Change, our competition for a single $100 million grant, is open to any proposed solution to any critical problem of our time. Nonprofit and qualifying for-profit organizations may apply. The competition cycle repeats every three years.

https://www.macfound.org/info-grantseekers/

PS:

Please, don't apply for funds to misappropriate the money to enrich yourselves. If you do so, I will also report the misappropriations of the funds which I have done before as a national Program Consultant for the UNICEF in Nigeria for NGOs.

We cannot point accusing fingers at the government for corruption when we are not innocent of corruption. 

Corruption is corruption; from the closet to the Office of the President; from the bedroom to the boardroom.

I have seen greedy filmmakers in Nollywood who misappropriated hundreds of thousands to millions of naira given to them for film and TV productions. And the funders have been disappointed and discouraged from supporting Nollywood and the Nigerian film industry.

- By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima,.

The  Publisher/Editor,

NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series,

The first book on Nollywood and the Nigerian film industry since 2013. Distributed by Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other booksellers.

12 Growth Stage Startups Selected for 2023 VC4A Venture Showcase Africa

 

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12 Growth Stage Startups Selected for 2023 VC4A Venture Showcase Africa

This annual flagship program brings together the best and brightest startups from across the continent, giving them the opportunity to pitch their ideas to investors and industry experts

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AMSTERDAM, Netherlands, August 14, 2023/ -- VC4A (https://www.VC4A.com), the leading startup platform in emerging markets, is proud to announce the 12 African startups that have been selected to participate in the 2023 VC4A Venture Showcase Africa. This annual flagship program brings together the best and brightest startups from across the continent, giving them the opportunity to pitch their ideas to investors and industry experts with the objective of raising their Seed or Series A fuding rounds. The 12 startups selected for the 2023 Venture Showcase Africa are: Three ventures from Egypt, which are Rology (https://apo-opa.info/455sUUU), an AI-assisted tele-radiology platform that helps deliver accurate radiology reports on time; FreshSource (https://apo-opa.info/451X5fw), a B2B agri-supply chain platform that uses data and technology to connect producers to businesses, guarantee fair prices, and minimize food loss; and Pharmacy Marts (https://apo-opa.info/47H09zA), a B2B marketplace for pharmacies that provides a one-stop shop for products, financing, and logistics. Four startups from Nigeria namely; Vendy (https://apo-opa.info/3YvNpaP), which helps businesses accept payments from customers without internet access; Treepz (https://apo-opa.info/3OCiBQS), a car-sharing platform for Africa that aims to reduce CO2 emissions; Winich Farms (https://apo-opa.info/3qCT7ee), an application that connects food producers to informal food processors and retailers in Africa; and OmniRetail (https://apo-opa.info/3OAwu21), a B2B e-commerce platform offering supplier & retail software, to connect the informal retail ecosystem across Africa. Three startups from Kenya; Duhqa (https://apo-opa.info/3OBqdDi), a digital supply chain platform that uses AI and automation to help SMEs and manufacturers grow their businesses; MPost (https://apo-opa.info/3KDJtPu) which is a digital platform that turns mobile phone numbers into formal postal addresses, and SympliFi (https://apo-opa.info/3OTghFF), a blockchain-powered credit-as-a-service platform that provides affordable credit to MSMEs in Africa. To close the top 12 list, one startup each from Uganda and Senegal; Emata (https://apo-opa.info/3OW2PC7) is a digital lending platform on a mission to provide loans to millions of farmers in East Africa and Maad (https://apo-opa.info/3KCIizP), is an e-commerce marketplace connecting manufacturers and retailers in Francophone Africa. These high-growth ventures were chosen from a pool of hundreds of applicants, and represent a diverse range of industries and sectors in the Seed and Series A tracks. Each startup will receive mentorship, technical assistance and will have the opportunity to showcase their companies to an audience of investors and industry leaders in the VC4A Deal Room. "We are thrilled to unveil these exceptional startups for our upcoming VC4A Venture Showcase Africa 2023 program. Each is a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship. These visionary teams have demonstrated remarkable potential and we eagerly anticipate the transformative journey ahead as we accelerate their growth and shape the future together," said an excited Abu Cassim, Lead of the Acceleration Team at VC4A. We thank our 2023 Africa sponsors, the African European Digital Innovation Bridge Network AEDIB|NET and Work in Progress! Alliance, for their commitment to strengthening Africa's startup ecosystem. Their support was essential to the success of this cohort selection process. For more information about the final cohort of the 2023 VC4A Venture Showcase Africa, please visit VentureShowcase.VC4A.com. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VC4A.   Media Contact: Boyewa Abiodun-Adepoju boyewa@vc4a.com About VC4A: VC4A is an ecosystem builder that leverages its infrastructure, network, and expertise for the programs that contribute to the startup movement in emerging markets. Since 2008, the organization has designed, structured, and implemented successful entrepreneurship programs on the continent. VC4A runs an online platform featuring the world’s largest database of startups in Africa and Latin America, connecting entrepreneurs to resources, networks, and funding. Visit https://VC4A.com/ for more information. About Work in Progress! Alliance: The Work in Progress! Alliance, funded by the Dutch government, aims to enable young people from diverse backgrounds to generate sustainable living wages and create optimism about their future. As a member of the Alliance, VC4A works with partners on the acceleration of start-ups and the offering of business development services (BDS) to impact-driven small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) so they can employ more young people. About AEDIB|NET: The African European Digital Innovation Bridge (AEDIB|NET) is an EU/Horizon2020 project that aims to strengthen a common African European digital innovation ecosystem by supporting local digital innovation and startup Ecosystems in Africa, thereby facilitating the collaboration between European and African innovation hubs. The project has a specific focus on Climate Smart Agriculture, Smart Cities, Digital Trade and Cleantech. SOURCE VC4A

Ban "Barbie" in Nigeria - Ahmed Muktari

Barbie: How Did An American Cult Movie Promoting Homosexuality Get Approval For Theatrical Release in Nigeria By The National Film and Video Censors Board?

- Ahmed Muktari

In Lebanon, Mohammad Mortada, the Minister of Culture has convinced the Lebanese government to ban the film "Barbie" from cinemas on Wednesday, saying it "promotes homosexuality" and contradicts religious values.

"Barbie" has been banned in 

Kuwait to protect "public ethics and social traditions", the state news agency reported. Other anti-gay countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa are most likely going to do so.

The National Film and Video Censors' Board (NFVCB) and National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) have questions to answer for the release of "Barbie" in Nigeria.

Homosexuality carries a 10-year jail term in Nigeria.

The act of aiding and abetting anyone in homosexuality is also a crime like aiding and abetting anyone in robbery and other crimes.

Did the NFVCB watch the film before approval or they have compromised their official duties and responsibilities to censor movies violating the ethics and laws of the constitutional policy of the agency and the laws of Nigeria?

OUR POLICY – NFVCB | National Film And Video Censors Board:

The detail of the Guidelines is contained in the following pages. But it is right to set out here the general underlying grounds on which the Board exercises the broad discretion conferred on it. There are four main considerations:

is the film or video work in conflict with the law?

that adults should be free to choose their entertainment, within the law.

is the film or video classified for a particular age group likely to be harmful?

is the material, at the age group concerned, clearly unacceptable to broad public opinion?

https://www.nfvcb.gov.ng/our-policy/

The Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act, which banned gay relationships and entrenched intolerance of sexual minorities in Nigerian society, was signed by Goodluck Jonathan, then president, in January 2014.

Nigeria is a country of almost equal populations of Christians and Muslims who are against homosexuality condemned by both religions of Christianity and Islam. And the minority of traditionalists also condemn homosexuality as demonic and against the native customs and traditions of the tribes in Nigeria.

We must not permit the corruption of our society and the violations of our laws by Western import of homosexuality.

- Ahmed Muktari,

Lagos,Nigeria.

PS:

"Barbie' is a 2023 American fantasy comedy film directed by Greta Gerwig from a screenplay she wrote with her partner Noah Baumbach. Based on the Barbie fashion dolls by Mattel, it is the first live-action Barbie film after numerous computer-animated films and specials. 

It is currently the highest grossing movie so far in 2023.

The views of the author of the article are not the opinions of Nigerians Report Online.

Rejoinders will be published.

"UNFORGIVABLE" is On the Top Nigerian Movies at the Cinemas

UNFORGIVABLE is the Most Daring Nigerian Movie on Sex and Rape

A new Nollywood romantic drama, "Unforgivable’ is the most daring Nigerian thriller on mistaken love affair, lust for sex and rape starring popular Nollywood diva, Nancy Isime in her sexiest role with fast rising Nollywood sex symbol, Timini Egbuson. The raunchy erotic scenes are only for adults.

The movie written, produced and directed by Osezuah Elimihe, one of the outstanding filmmakers in Nollywood is already on the Top 10 box office since it started showing at cinemas nationwide with a Watch and Win promo of N100, 000 for moviegoers.

Other actors featured are Jude Orhorha, Victor Eriabie, Mercy Isoyip, Anthonia Okojie, Emeka Okoye, Kokoette Omoinyang. Ijeoma Richards, Joseph Momodu, Aaron Sunday, Moses Nwosu, Osasu Esemuede, Linda Igwe and Aloysius Onyejegbu.

The Synopsis:

An arrogant, self assured, rich, debonair, mid level investment banking professional with an excessive lust for women finds himself mired in a rape charge. In the game of saving himself from life imprisonment and odium, he rejects assistance from his powerful, but modest father and chooses to go it all alone. He will find his cook, who reveres him for his generosity, and his cousin, with whom he has a steaming incestuous relationship, dependable in the fight, but will this be enough for him?

"Unforgivable" is a production of AISRE Pictures with the media partnership of Megalectrics Ltd (operators of Classic FM 97.3 & The Beat 99.9FM) and distributed by Blue Pictures Entertainment.

Watch the Uncensored Trailer on 

http://kissesandroses..com/2023/08/nancy-isime-in-unforgivable-is.html