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SAYeTECH Wins the MEST Africa Challenge 2024, Securing $50,000 in Funding
The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa) (www.Meltwater.org) has announced SAYeTECH (https://SAYeTECH.io) as the winner of the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC) 2024. The MAC 2024 grand finale marked the culmination of the competition, which celebrated innovative AgriTech solutions driving change in West Africa. Hosted in partnership with the Norwegian Embassy in Accra, this year's theme, ‘Find Your Soil,' focused on AgriTech innovation in the region.
MAC 2024 attracted applicants from key markets in the West African Region including Benin, Cape Verde, Côte D'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali, and Togo. Six standout finalists were selected to pitch their groundbreaking agricultural technology solutions, all aimed at enhancing productivity and sustainability in the region.
SAYeTECH, a Ghanaian startup led by Theodore Ohene-Botchway, won the grand prize for its innovative agricultural machinery tailored to African conditions, securing $50,000 in equity funding to scale its operations.
“The funding will enable us to scale production and reduce delivery lead times, providing smallholder farmers with the equipment they need to increase productivity,” said Ohene-Botchway.
As MEST continues to deepen its influence on Africa's tech startup landscape, the MEST Africa Challenge remains the continent's premier pitch competition for emerging tech entrepreneurs. The competition is designed to provide the ideal environment for tech innovators and startups to grow and succeed.
“AgriTech innovation thrives when it's rooted in the right environment. ‘Find Your Soil' is about helping innovators find the ecosystem where they can grow. Through the MEST Africa Challenge, we provide the visibility, partnerships, and support to help them succeed,” said Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor, MEST Africa.
MEST Africa is committed to creating wealth and jobs in Africa by fostering digital skills, supporting startups, and providing access to global networks. For more information, visit www.Meltwater.org.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa).
Media Contact:
Ophesmur Naa Adjeley Adjei
Communications and Community Manager
E-mail: marketing@meltwater.org or Ophesmur@meltwater.org
About MEST Africa:
The Meltwater Foundation, established in 2008, is the non-profit arm of the global media intelligence company, Meltwater. With a clear mission to foster job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in Africa through software entrepreneurship, the Foundation is based in Accra, Ghana. The flagship program, MEST, offers a 1-year specialized tech entrepreneurial training to high-caliber talent from over 22 countries including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa and Senegal; and invests in early to growth-stage startups.
Media urged to submit entries to SADC Media Awards competition
Media urged to submit entries to SADC Media Awards competition
South African media practitioners have been called to submit their entries to the 2025 Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media Awards competition.
“To promote regional integration and cooperation (cross-border issues), the awards aim to recognise excellence in journalism in the area of print, photo, television, radio as well as to encourage media practitioners in member states to cover issues pertaining to the region,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Wednesday.
The SADC Media Awards competition is open to journalists/media from the SADC Member States.
They were established in 1996 to recognise best media work in disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional cooperation and integration in the region.
The first prize winners will receive their prizes and certificates on the margins of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, which will take place in August 2025.
The first prize winner in each category receives US$2 500 and the runner-up receives US$1 000.
The awards were established following a decision by the SADC Council of Ministers to establish a sector that deals with matters relating to, amongst others, information, culture and sport.
They present a unique opportunity for the SADC region’s journalists to be celebrated and recognised by their peers.
These awards are one of the mechanisms to ensure a link, coordination and synchronisation between formal structures of SADC governments, civil society, academia, labour and the media.
Journalists who wish to enter the competition can access more information about the competition from https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADCEntryform2025.doc.
Rules of the 2025 competition are available on: https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADC2025RulesCompetition.pdf.
Entries need to be posted or delivered to MDDA or any GCIS offices nationwide marked:
MDDA Offices GCIS Offices
SADC Media Awards Entry or SADC Media Awards Entry
GSM Building Government Communications (GCIS)
SABC Auckland Park Campus 1035 Francis Baard Street
Johannesburg Hatfield, Pretoria
2006 0028
NB: All entries must be submitted no later than 28 February 2025. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:21
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Dialog TV to Broadcast South African International Matches in Sri Lanka
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Singapore Invited as Guest Country by the 2025 South African G20 Presidency
Singapore has been invited by the Republic of South Africa as a guest country to participate in G20 meetings under its 2025 G20 Presidency.
Singapore would like to express its appreciation to South Africa for the invitation. Singapore and South Africa enjoy a longstanding and broad-based partnership, underpinned by strong people-to-people ties. Our two countries cooperate well in various areas, including trade and investment, air connectivity, information and communications technology and skills development. Singapore will continue to actively contribute to the G20 process both in our national capacity and as the Convenor of the Global Governance Group (3G).
Singapore looks forward to working constructively with the South African G20 Presidency and other G20 members and guests on South Africa's theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”, with a view to, inter alia, strengthen and advance our common efforts to realise the Sustainable Development Goals and the Pact of the Future, promote inclusive economic growth, food security and Artificial Intelligence and Innovation for Sustainable Development.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Singapore.
Afrobarometer Connects Early-Career Researchers With Established Scholars to Build Analytical Capacity in Africa
Afrobarometer (www.Afrobarometer.org) held its inaugural Emerging Scholars Workshop in November, bringing together early-career researchers and established scholars to enhance analytical skills and support the next generation of African researchers. This initiative aligns with Afrobarometer's objective of strengthening the continent's research ecosystem.
The workshop, held at the University of Pretoria's Future Africa campus, brought together 12 emerging scholars – half of them women – representing nine countries: Botswana, Benin, Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda.
Participants presented research papers covering diverse topics, received feedback from their mentors and peers, and engaged in professional development sessions designed to propel their academic and professional growth.
According to Jason Owen, Afrobarometer capacity building manager (advanced track), the workshop is in line with Afrobarometer's commitment to providing professional development opportunities for young African researchers.
“The emerging scholars that attended the workshop received detailed comments on their research from a panel of experienced academic mentors and peers,” he said. “The aim was to sharpen their analytical skills and to enable them to publish high-quality research using Afrobarometer data. We hope this type of workshop will foster a growing research and mentoring network that helps to build analytical capacity across Africa.”
The workshop also facilitated networking and collaboration. Nicole Beardsworth, a lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand, highlighted the value of such gatherings. “PhD journeys can be isolating and lonely, but opportunities like the Afrobarometer Emerging Scholars Workshop provide a window for young scholars from around the continent to meet each other, find commonalities, forge collaborations, and create community,” she said.
A section of participants also noted that the workshop provided them with a transformative platform to engage with established academics, gain constructive feedback, enhance research skills, and build professional networks critical for advancing their academic and career aspirations.
“I was attracted to this workshop because it provides a unique opportunity to engage with seasoned scholars, participate in sophisticated research discussions, and develop essential skills for my professional growth,” said Mbiydzenyuy Courage Sevidzem from the University of Bamenda in Cameroon.
Over the past two and half decades, Afrobarometer has trained hundreds of young researchers, civil society activists, journalists, and parliamentarians through several capacity- building initiatives, including French- and English-language summer schools, thematic workshops, mentorships, university outreach initiatives, and staff development fellowships.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afrobarometer.
For more information, please contact:
Daniel Iberi
Communications coordinator for East Africa
Email: diberi@afrobarometer.org
Telephone: +254 725 6744 57
Visit us online at www.Afrobarometer.org.
Follow us:
Facebook: Afrobarometer
Twitter: @ Afrobarometer
YouTube: @ Afrobarometer
Follow our releases on #VoicesAfrica.
About Afrobarometer:
Afrobarometer (AB) is a trusted source of high-quality data and analysis on what Africans are thinking. With an unmatched track record of 388,000+ interviews in 42 countries, representing the views of 80% of the African population, AB is leading the charge to bridge the continent's data gap. AB data inform many global indices, such as the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, Transparency International's Global Corruption Barometer, and the World Bank's Worldwide Governance Indicators. The data are also used for country risk analyses and by credit rating and forecasting agencies such as the Economist Intelligence Unit. All AB data sets are publicly available on the website (www.Afrobarometer.org) and may be analysed free of charge using AB's online data analysis tool (https://apo-opa.co/3Vf0pB6).
Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani appointed to International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience
Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani appointed to International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience
The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has congratulated its Director-General, Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani, on her appointment to the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience.
The advisory body was set up by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), in partnership with the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC), with the aim of promoting dialogue and collaboration on potential ways and means to improve resilience of this vital infrastructure that powers global communications and the digital economy.
“With increased reliance on digital infrastructure, this has brought into focus the subject of the resilience of submarine cables.
“The advisory body will serve as a platform for international multistakeholder collaboration, bringing together governments, regulatory authorities, industry leaders and key stakeholders in areas related to enhancing the safety, redundancy, and protection of submarine cables,” the department said on Monday.
South Africa boasts a total number of 11 submarine cables on its shores, which play a significant role as a pathway to bridging the digital gap in society.
“Jordan-Dyani’s vast experience, insight and expertise in the sector, which she has served for almost two decades, will come in handy to the advisory body and serve as invaluable guidance to the team that will be co-chaired by Minister Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Professor Sandra Maximiano, the Chair of the ANACOM Board of Directors, Portugal,” the department said.
For more information on the advisory body visit: https://www.itu.int/en/digitalresilience/submarine-cables/Pages/members.aspx. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 12/02/2024 - 09:19
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Coetzee Ruled Out of Second Test Against Sri Lanka and Pakistan Tour Maphaka Added to Squad
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South African Travellers to Take More Holidays in 2025
- Research among over 2,000 South African travellers reveals that more than six in 10 plan to take more holidays in 2025.
- Bravecations and heritage holidays emerge as key travel trends for 2025.
- Savvy spenders on the rise as travellers seek the best value for their trips.
- AI usage in holiday planning skyrockets, alongside growing sustainability considerations.
The travel market is set to grow in 2025, according to Marriott Bonvoy's 2025 Ticket to Travel research (http://apo-opa.co/3AQaXQo) (www.Marriott.com). The study, conducted amongst 21,374 adults in 10 markets across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East (EMEA) and more than 2,000 travellers in South Africa, reveals that more than 60% of South Africans plan to take more holidays next year compared to 2024, with 18% maintaining their current travel frequency.
Surveyed South Africans are planning an average of 2.7 domestic holidays, two short-haul holidays (four-hour flight or less), and 1.8 long-haul holidays in 2025. This totals 6.5 holidays or trips, equating to more than one every two months. Among those planning holidays, the top travel destinations are South Africa (27%), USA (11%), Mozambique (10%), France (10%), and Mauritius (10%).
‘Bravecations' and ‘heritage holidays' arise as emerging trends
The research highlights several emerging travel trends. One notable trend is ‘bravecations,' where travellers are more adventurous on holiday, trying activities they wouldn't normally attempt at home. An impressive 85% of South African travellers say they are braver on holiday, the highest among all markets surveyed. This trend is particularly strong among younger travellers, with 87% of 18–24-year-olds and 91% of 25–34-year-olds expressing a willingness to try new and exciting things. Popular activities include climbing high structures (56%), participating in high-octane activities like zip-lining, skydiving or theme park rides (54%), and trying unusual foods (45%).
Another rising trend is ‘heritage holidays,' where travellers explore their family's heritage, history, or ancestry. Seventy-five percent of South Africans have taken or plan to take a heritage holiday soon. This trend is more prevalent among younger generations, with 77% of 18–24-year-olds and 88% of 25–34-year-olds having taken a heritage holiday or plan to, compared to just 42% of those aged 65 and above. Key motivations include the desire to understand where their family comes from and what their life was like (64%) and to see where their ancestors lived (53%).
Solidifying Trends
Sustainability and the use of AI in travel planning are set to become even more significant in 2025. Eight in ten travellers (80%) consider the environmental impact of their travel plans, higher than the EMEA average of 72%. Nearly eight in ten (79%) checked the sustainability of their accommodation on their last holiday, with 64% doing so before booking, far higher than the EMEA average of 30%.
The use of AI in travel planning is also growing rapidly. Nearly half (48%) of South African travellers have used AI to help plan or research a holiday, above the EMEA average of 41%. This trend is led by younger travellers, with 57% of 18–24-year-olds and 63% of 25–34-year-olds using AI in the past year, indicating its mainstream adoption among younger South Africans.
Travel Priorities for 2025
When it comes to choosing accommodation in 2025, the ‘brilliant basics' remain key priorities with cleanliness (97%), location (96%), and customer service (96%) being the most important factors.
South African travellers are family orientated, preferring to holiday with their family or partner's family and children (46%), above just their partner or spouse (36%), and friends (12%). Only five percent prefer to travel alone. Additionally, ‘spending time with friends and family' (63%) is the top priority for holidays, followed by ‘treating themselves' (54%). Over half (52%) say it is important they return feeling healthier than when they left, significantly higher than the EMEA average of 36%.
Savvy Spending
Despite planning more holidays, South Africans are keen on getting the best value for their money. The main factor that would encourage travellers to book a holiday is ‘getting a special price' (62%). Shoulder season breaks—taking vacations during the months surrounding peak season—are another popular way to make holidays more affordable. Seven in ten (70%) have or have considered doing this, with the main reason being to get better value (56%). More than half of South African travellers (46%) always consider exchange rates when planning holidays, but 14% say they ‘never usually do but will in 2025'.
Dorcas Dlamini Mbele, Area Commercial Director, Marriott International – Sub-Saharan Africa, says: “We're witnessing a profound shift towards valuing experiences over material possessions among South African travellers. Trends like bravecations and heritage holidays are at the forefront, reflecting a desire for meaningful and enriching journeys. The integration of AI in travel planning and a strong focus on sustainability further enhance this forward-thinking approach. It's an exciting era for the travel industry, and we're eager to support South Africans as they embark on new adventures and create lasting memories both locally and globally.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..
Note to Editors:
*Research conducted by Mortar amongst 21,374 adults in the UK, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Poland, South Africa, and Türkiye.
Click here (http://apo-opa.co/3AQaXQo) to download the report.
For more information, please contact:
Birgit Deibele
Senior Director of Communications
Marriott International - Sub-Saharan Africa
Mobile: +27 (0)67 598 9162
Email: Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com
About Marriott Bonvoy®:
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's award-winning travel programme and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 31 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalisation and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enrol for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit MarriottBonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here (http://apo-opa.co/417JjsA). Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/4149kcr), Twitter (http://apo-opa.co/49aQAda), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4149lx1) and TikTok (http://apo-opa.co/4149mkz).
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African Sub-Sovereign Government Leaders and Businesses Meet in Kisumu City, Kenya to Discuss Inclusive Growth, Trade Decentralization and Investment Opportunities
Over 250 Sub-Sovereign government leaders from across Africa are today meeting in Kisumu, Kenya, for the the fourth edition of the African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) Conference. Taking place between the 25th and 27th of November, the event provides a platform for Sub-Sovereign leaders and businesses to discuss how their local governments can attract investments in the region in order foster and accelerate inclusive growth and development.
Organised by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the County Government of Kisumu and the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa), the conference's overarching theme is ‘Leveraging the AfCFTA for Sustainable Trade and Investment: A Development Pathway for African Sub-Sovereigns'. The event's main objectives include strengthening the role of Africa's Sub-Sovereign governments in driving intra-African trade and investment, and the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Africa's Sub-Sovereign governments, comprising states, counties, provinces, municipalities and regional authorities, play a critical role in economic development of African countries. According to the African Union, Africa's economic outlook is projected at 3.7% GDP growth in 2024, slightly higher than the global average of 3.2%. This growth elevates the integral role of Sub Sovereign governments for African economies and its people.
Understanding this, Afreximbank has committed USD $2 billion for these critical actors, to support these governments and businesses in African countries.
While delivering his keynote address at the AfSNET conference in Kisumu, Kenya, H. E. Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya acknowledged the Bank's support for African governments including Kenya:
“I want to thank Professor Benedict Oramah for making time to join us for this conference. Your presence here is yet another example of the unique approaches that the Bank, under your leadership, employs in order to deepen its footprint by engaging with shareholders throughout the continent, including sub-national entities like Africities, and devolved governments like Kisumu. Afreximbank has consistently demonstrated innovative approaches in advancing credit to African governments and the public sector while facilitating deeper collaboration among sub-Saharan nations and Kenya is an example. This spirit of innovation aligns seamlessly with the aspirations of the African Continental Free Trade Area, creating a dynamic network of ambitious, future ready institutions and governments. Such collaborations will drive transformative engagements at the grassroots level, enabling Africa to achieve an unparalleled position in the global value chains and make substantial contributions to their bottom-up transformation.”
Speaking on the importance of the conference, President Ruto noted: “By promoting peer to peer learning, this forum strengthens cooperation among Sub-Sovereign governments. And devolution, a tremendous innovation established under Kenya's 2010 constitution, has evolved into an exemplary success story that Kenyans are very proud of, as it has brought services closer to the people, empowered grassroot participation in government, safeguarded minority rights and enhanced equity in resource mobilization and allocation.”
Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, commented:
“The African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) initiative thrives due to the concerted efforts and unwavering commitment of partners who recognise the tremendous potential of sub-sovereign governments as the engines for broad-based economic development that extends to the grassroots of our societies. At Afreximbank, we strongly believe that for developmental initiatives to succeed in our economies, they must, of necessity, be decentralized; development needs must originate and flow from the periphery towards the centre. In alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), we are passionately implementing the AfSNET initiative to promote intra-regional trade and investment. We collectively recognize that cities, states, and provinces within a nation exhibit remarkable diversity—differing in population sizes, resource endowments, skill sets, and sectoral specializations.”
Professor Oramah continued that this conference is a key prelude to the upcoming Intra Africa Trade Fair (IATF2025) scheduled to take place from 4 to 10 September 2025 in Algiers, Algeria, and delegates are welcomed to contribute to the discourse that can be elevated at the IATF2025.
AfSNET was established by Afreximbank as a platform for promoting intra-African trade and investment, educational and cultural exchanges and the fostering of effective engagement among sub-sovereigns in Africa's development and prosperity in the context of the AfCFTA.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.
Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com
Follow us on:
Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/3Z521i8
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/4eNjNMs
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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra-and extra-African trade. For 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa's trade, accelerating industrialization and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank is setting up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2023, Afreximbank's total assets and guarantees stood at over US$37.3 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$6.1 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody's (Baa1), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, "the Group"). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.
For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com
About UCLG Africa (UCLG Africa (United Cities and Local Governments of Africa):
The umbrella organization for African local governments, was founded in 2005 in the City of Tshwane, South Africa as a result of the unification of three continental groups of local governments, namely the African Union of Local Authorities (AULA); the Union des Villes Africaines (UVA); and the Africa Chapter of the União das Ciudades e Capitães Lusófonas Africanas, (UCCL AFRICA). The founding congress of the organization was held in May 2005 in the city of Tshwane, South Africa. UCLG Africa brings together 51 national associations of local and regional governments from all regions of Africa, as well as 2,000 cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants. UCLG Africa represents over 350 million African citizens. A founding member of the world organization UCLG, UCLG Africa is the regional representative for Africa with its headquarters based in Rabat, capital of the Kingdom of Morocco, where it enjoys diplomatic status as a Pan-African International Organization. It also has regional offices on the continent.
Amplifychange Marks 10 Years of Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights
Today marks 10 years of a pioneering effort to promote sexual health and rights in Africa and South Asia. Because of AmplifyChange (www.AmplifyChange.org) -funded support for local activists in key African countries, millions now have better access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare and information and can make decisions about their bodies and their relationships. Over the past decade, AmplifyChange has invested significantly in grassroots organisations dedicated to eliminating gender-based violence, including sexual violence, female genital mutilation, and child marriage. In Kenya, more than £20.5 million has funded over 35 projects, with £5.7 million specifically targeting these critical issues. South Africa has received over £15.4 million, including £5.1 million for nearly 20 initiatives. In Nigeria, £6.8 million has been granted, with almost £2 million funding around 25 projects, while in Senegal, over £2.1 million has been allocated, including £1.8 million for nine targeted initiatives.AmplifyChange has been the transformational vehicle supported by governmental, foundation, and private-sector donors. In partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Denmark, it today celebrates its tenth-anniversary event at Eigtveds Pakhus in Copenhagen.
“The Government of Denmark was one of the founding donors that set up AmplifyChange to support locally-led groups to lead the work on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in their communities. Denmark has been a proud supporter ever since. AmplifyChange has lived up to its ambitious name and brought empowerment and life-altering changes to millions of women, girls, and local communities over the last 10 years. We look forward to continuing the cooperation,” said Denmark's State Secretary for Development Cooperation Lotte Machon.
AmplifyChange has funded 775 civil society organisations in the last ten years, distributing over GBP 125 million in grants across 67 sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia countries. The organisation's unique approach focuses on delivering funds directly to grassroots organisations, allowing for rapid response to community needs and efficient use of resources. Cameroon is one notable example where AmplifyChange has supported local groups like Reach Out Cameroon to address urgent SRHR issues worsened by ongoing conflict within the country, especially for women and girls. By involving men and boys in shifting social norms, challenging toxic masculinity, and reducing gender-based violence, these initiatives create a community-driven approach that supports immediate SRHR needs and builds lasting change in attitudes toward gender equality. In addition, AmplifyChange uses comprehensive impact assessment methods to track the effectiveness of its initiatives to ensure that each grant contributes to meaningful and sustainable progress in the key countries.
Local community support has been essential for initiatives like Dance Into Space (DIS), a performing arts group in Siaya, Kenya, where Artistic Director Onyango Ondiege uses “artivism” to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for people with disabilities. One member, Pamela Jura, a single mother of three, advocates for women with disabilities through dance, tackling stigma and human rights violations. DIS's “Breaking Barriers” initiative equips individuals with contemporary dance skills to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities while encouraging understanding and empathy to drive social change.
“In the past decade, AmplifyChange has proven the power of local action in addressing some of the most pressing SRHR issues worldwide,” said Dr. Narmeen Hamid, Board Chair of AmplifyChange. “Our partnerships with community organisations are at the heart of what we do, enabling local leaders to drive sustainable change and confront critical challenges that affect health and rights in their communities.”
AmplifyChange was launched in 2014 by Her Majesty The Queen of Denmark during a United Nations General Assembly session, marking the beginning of a movement dedicated to improving SRHR for underserved populations in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Through targeted funding and organisational strengthening, AmplifyChange has supported local organisations to tackle urgent issues, including gender-based violence, stigma, abortion access, youth rights, and healthcare availability for all.
“AmplifyChange's support has allowed us to champion rights and health for LGBTIQ communities in ways that were once unimaginable,” said Anne-Marie Manga, AmplifyChange Strategic Adviser for Cameroon. “Our work brings visibility and resilience to people who are often marginalised, and it emphasises that SRHR advocacy is about dignity, health, and inclusivity for all.”
“With AmplifyChange's partnership, we have been able to expand our reach and deepen our impact, particularly in underserved West African communities,” said Sory Ibrahima Monekata, Ph.D., Grant Director of Dambe Funds Sahel in Mali. “Their support has enabled us to implement essential programs and to build local capacity, ensuring that our advocacy and services are sustainable and rooted in the communities we serve.”
AmplifyChange's 10th-anniversary celebration coincides with the first day of the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” a fitting occasion to reflect on the progress made and the work still to be done. The organisation's impact in advancing SRHR highlights shared values of health equity, dignity, and justice that resonate globally and especially with communities throughout Europe. AmplifyChange remains committed to broadening its support and forging new partnerships to address critical SRHR needs, building healthier and more resilient communities in the process.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AmplifyChange.
Contacts:
For more information, please contact:
communications@amplifychange.org
West Africa Media:
Anne Mireille
anne-mireille.nzouankeu@finnpartners.com
+237 657 816 993
East Africa Media:
Sharon Quntai
sharon.quntai@finnpartners.com
+254 728 224 952
About AmplifyChange:
AmplifyChange is a multi-donor challenge fund dedicated to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) by empowering local organisations across sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. AmplifyChange supports civil society advocacy and activist groups working on the most neglected and challenging SRHR issues globally today. By focusing on critical issues such as gender-based violence, stigma against sexual and gender minorities, abortion access, youth rights, and healthcare access for marginalised communities, AmplifyChange supports grassroots initiatives to ensure that resources reach communities most in need, promoting a just and inclusive world where every individual's health and rights are respected and protected. AmplifyChange collaborates with FINN Partners to amplify its mission and effectively communicate its global impact.
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VFS Global Expands UK Visa Services in Sub-Saharan Africa in Second Phase of Rollouts
VFS Global (www.VFSGlobal.com) is proud to announce that residents of Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, travelling to the UK can now book appointments to submit their visa applications through VFS Global's new state-of-the-art Visa Application Centres (VAC).
From 19 November 2024 customers applying for a UK visa will be directed to VFS Global to book an appointment to complete their visa application. Customers will also have the option to choose additional services designed to make the application process easier.
VFS Global has been contracted by UK Visas and Immigration since 2003, offering visa services in 58 countries prior to the new contract. In 2023, VFS Global was awarded the new contract to provide UK visa services in 142 countries worldwide.
Mr. Alok Singhal, Head- Sub-Saharan Africa, VFS Global, said, “We are excited to embark on this new journey with UK Visas and Immigration here across Sub-Saharan Africa. We have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with UKVI since 2003 and look forward to now bringing travellers from Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, our best-in-class services.”
UK visa customers can now choose from a range of optional services, depending on their location, offered by VFS Global to provide enhanced comfort and convenience. These include document upload assistance, Prime Time for application submission outside of business hours, SMS notifications, document checking service, and courier return of the passport once a decision has been made. VFS Global's Keep My Passport While Applying service allows customers in all these locations to keep their passport once their application is submitted and biometrics have been enrolled. Customers will only need to re-submit their passport if a visa is issued.
Customers in Cameroon, Tanzania, and Uganda can also submit their UK visa applications from the comfort and safety of their home, office, or any other preferred location with our On Demand Mobile Visa service. In addition, our Premium Lounge service offers a personalised submission experience with dedicated staff members, which is available in Ethiopia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. The services can be booked in advance on www.VFSGlobal.com or at the Visa Application Centre at the time of the appointment. These services are completely optional and have no bearing on the processing timeline and outcomes of visa applications.
In the African region, VFS Global will provide Visa Application Centres for the UK in 31 countries. Under the new contract, VFS Global is already operating UK Visa Application Centres in nine other countries across Sub Saharan Africa since October 2024, including South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana.
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UK Visa Application Centres Angola: Rua 28 de Maio, Edificio Kende nº15 /17 , 1st floor F, Maianga, Luanda |
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Angola Website: https://apo-opa.co/4fx7MMr Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri)
Botswana Website: https://apo-opa.co/3YW6Bis Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)
Cameroon Website: https://apo-opa.co/4i0MfgT Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)
Ethiopia
Malawi
Mozambique
Namibia
Rwanda
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe
*Except public holidays |
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VFS Global.
Media Contact:
George Cherian
georgec@vfsglobal.com
communications@vfsglobal.com
About VFS Global:
As the world's leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.
With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 69 client governments. Operating over 3,400 Application Centres in 153 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 299 million applications since 2001.
Headquartered in Zurich and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.
Telecoming and MTN Partner to Launch Cloud Gaming in South Africa
- Both companies extend their collaboration to introduce cloud gaming in South Africa.
- MTN Cloudplay aims to revolutionize digital entertainment with affordable, high-quality gaming access.
MTN, Africa's leading telecommunications operator with over 290 million subscribers across the continent, announces the launch of Cloudplay, a revolutionary new cloud gaming service, with Telecoming (www.Telecoming.com), a sportech company specializing in developing and distributing mobile experiences for sports and entertainment. This project marks a new milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the two companies.
MTN Cloudplay: A Game Changer
MTN Cloudplay will allow MTN users in South Africa to access a wide range of cloud-based video games, providing a high-quality gaming experience without the need for downloads or high-end gaming consoles. The service will allow customers to stream high-end PC games to their mobile phones, enabling them to play anywhere, anytime.
This service seeks to democratize access to high-quality mobile gaming for the whole family; including various genres which include retro games and exciting popular gaming titles with multi-device gameplay, at an affordable price of only R79 per month.
Jason Probert, General Manager for Digital Services at MTN South Africa shared his thoughts on the collaboration:
"We're thrilled to launch MTN Cloudplay in South Africa. We're committed to enabling our customers to enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life and the advent of 5G means that it is now possible to stream and play games without the need for a PC or console. Customers can use their existing Steam licenses on the service, and have access to more than 300 games on the service for only R79 per month."
Alí Karaosman, MEA Director of Telecoming says "It is very exciting for us to extend our collaboration with MTN, bringing our nearly decade-long experience in this market and supporting the operator in this innovative digital entertainment offering, we are convinced that MTN Cloudplay will revolutionize the way users in South Africa enjoy video games. For Telecoming, this partnership with MTN is a strategic step in our mission to bring esports and innovative digital services to Africa. We are committed to continuing to develop technological solutions that enhance digital leisure for people in the region."
Service Details
MTN Cloudplay is available to all MTN users in South Africa since November 2024. With a vast library of over 340 games from over 50 publishers, this cloud gaming service offers an unmatched gaming experience on any device.
MTN Cloudplay is accessible to MTN subscribers. Users can visit https://Cloudplay.MTN.co.za to explore the platform and enjoy a wide selection of gaming titles.
Highlights
- Extensive Game Library: Enjoy classics like Contra, PacMan and Mortal Kombat and modern hits like Hogwarts Legacy and Borderlands 3.
- Bring Your Own License (BYOL): Access games you've purchased on Steam, such as Grand Theft Auto V and Fallout 4.
- Multi-Device Access: Play on any device and switch seamlessly between them.
- Low Latency: Experience responsive gameplay with minimal lag.
- Subscription: Available directly on https://Cloudplay.MTN.co.za or via the MTN Play https://Play.MTN.co.za website for R79 per month.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Telecoming.
For MTN Queries:
Leigh-Ann Chetty
Senior Manager: Public Relations, MTN SA
Cell: 083 209 1310
E-mail: Leigh-Ann.Chetty@mtn.com
Mthokozisi Ndlovu
Senior Manager: External Communications, MTN SA
Cell: 083 209 2683
E-mail: Mthokozisi.Ndlovu@mtn.com
Press Contact Telecoming:
Bárbara González
barbara@bgdiez.es
M. +34 603 578 65
Follow us:
X: https://apo-opa.co/3Z0Fgvs
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3CA7cz3
About the MTN South Africa:
Launched in 1994, MTN South Africa is a subsidiary of MTN Group, a leading emerging market operator with a clear vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our customers. We are inspired by our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of modern connected life. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code ‘MTN'. Our strategy is Ambition 2025: Leading digital solutions for Africa's progress.
About Telecoming:
Telecoming is a sportech company specializing in developing and distributing mobile experiences for sports and entertainment. The firm has been deploying monetization technologies in partnership with telcos since 2008. Telecoming is currently present in 18 countries. Its portfolio includes the official licenses of the leading soccer clubs in Europe and Africa, as well as the main competitions of 12 sports disciplines. Leader in the digital content economy since its foundation, the company has been recognized by the London Stock Exchange as one of Europe's most inspiring organizations. In addition, it is one of Europe's fastest-growing companies, according to Morningstar's 5000 Inc. ranking. For more information, please visit: www.Telecoming.com