Calls for Nestlé to Remove Sugar From Baby Foods
Swiss investigative outlet claims Nestlé is misrepresenting sugar content
digital marketing
WHO and UNICEF Warn Parents Against Unethical Baby Milk Advertising In South Africa
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) are today launching a “Babies Before Bottom Lines” manifesto to warn parents in South Africa against false and unethical baby milk advertising. The manifesto was posted online today to call out “predatory and pervasive practices” and has been backed and shared by prominent parenting influencers around the country.
WHO and UNICEF are jointly calling the attention of parents and caregivers to the WHO International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes and its related information sources. The code provides guidelines on stricter regulation of marketing of breastmilk substitutes, to curb harmful effects on babies' short- and long-term health.
WHO's Country Representative in South Africa, Shenaaz El-Halabi, says: “False, incomplete, misleading health and nutrition claims by formula companies should stop now. The WHO calls on formula milk companies to stop presenting incomplete scientific evidence and inferring unsupported health outcomes.”
WHO and UNICEF are specifically calling on local regulators to update Regulations Relating to Foodstuffs for Infants and Young Children (aka R991) to include other advertising techniques and digital marketing practices that have become prevalent in the past few years since the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes of 1981 and local Regulation R991 of 2012 were drafted. Some popular social media platforms, whose algorithms can target specific consumers with specific messages at specific times, were still in their infancy or did not yet exist in 2012. Of particular concern is that parents are often targeted with information that blurs the lines between nutritional facts and promotional pseudo-science and emotional manipulation when they are at their most vulnerable.
The pseudo-scientific health claims made by formula companies discourage mothers from breastfeeding, which should always be a first choice as breastmilk is the most complete and healthiest milk for babies. In addition, widespread evidence exists that women have internalised doubts about the quality and quantity of their breastmilk, mirroring the themes and messaging of formula milk marketing campaigns.
In line with their multi-country study on the impacts of marketing breastmilk substitutes, WHO and UNICEF warn that “inappropriate promotion of breastmilk substitutes negatively impacts breastfeeding practices, and that advertisers are promoting a false choice between formula feeding and breastfeeding, without offering informed choice to parents about the real differences between breastmilk and various brands of formula”.
UNICEF South Africa Representative, Christine Muhigana, notes that: “Government and civil society partners are to be commended for their efforts to address this concerning issue. It is evident that formula milk companies continue to actively target health professionals to convince them to prescribe formula. This Manifesto is part of a broader effort to address these unfair practices so that mothers and caregivers are fully aware of unethical marketing practices.”
Cross promotion, also known as “brand extension” which is a marketing practice whereby one product is used to advertise another product by using similar branding, packaging and labelling (including but not limited to similar colours, design, font types, mascots and logos) has become a common practice by the bay formula companies.
“All families need to be supported with evidence-based information so that they can make the most appropriate and informed decision for feeding their babies. Those choices, however, should never be exploited for corporate profits. We are finding again and again, all around the world, that unethical corporate influence is imposed on caregivers through false advertising. Companies use digital marketing algorithms that exploit parents when they are most vulnerable. They capitalize on parents' doubts and questions. For instance, we see advertisers directing fake science at caregivers in the middle of the night, when they or their babies are struggling, to falsely convince them that bottle-fed babies sleep better than breastfed babies. This is wrong and needs to stop,” says Dr Laurence Grummer-Strawn, who leads WHO‘s work on infant and young child feeding.
WHO and UNICEF have uncovered systematic and unethical marketing strategies by the US $55 billion infant formula industry, finding it uses the “infant formula industry uses pervasive, personalised and powerful methods to target parents when they are at their most vulnerable in the early days of their new babies life, and manipulate scientific claims to promote their products whilst undermining parents' confidence”.
Aqeelah Harron, an online content creator who owns the popular Fashion Breed social media platform, is supporting the campaign. "I'm a mom to a toddler and my child's health matters to me more than anything. I think it's wrong that powerful formula companies with big platforms are preying on parents to manipulate us into falling for fake science. Babies and new parents are vulnerable and should never be exploited. We need to prioritise comprehensive feeding education for all caregivers, free from the influence of profit-driven marketing." Several other online influencers are also backing the campaign.
WHO and UNICEF invite the public to join them in calling for an end to the aggressive marketing of formula milk, and to share their call to action: “Choose babies before bottom lines.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) - South Africa.
Tourism Committee Calls on Department to Provide Committee With a Briefing on Its Partnership Model
The Department of Tourism and its entity, South African Tourism (SAT), appeared before the Portfolio Committee on Tourism yesterday to present their annual performance plans for the 2025/26 financial year and their strategic plans for 2025–2030, which aim to situate South Africa as a preferred and competitive tourism destination regionally, continentally and globally.
The department assured the committee that, unlike before, its strategy is aligned to the government's Medium-Term Development Plan and will have the capacity to deliver the strategy as planned.
The department said it provides small, medium and micro enterprises in the sector with financial and non-financial capabilities required for them to become financially literate. It also helps these enterprises to develop business plans, market their products and run their businesses profitably while using digital technology to bring about transformation, inclusivity and beneficiation of youth, women and people living with disabilities in the tourism sector.
The committee Chairperson, Ms Lungi Mnganga-Gcabashe, told the department to brief the committee on the partnership model it has with critical stakeholders and how it intends to use its marketing budget to leverage these partnerships and synergies to enhance its tourism assets, products and services. The briefing must also include a timeline on when it intends to implement its digital transformation strategy.
Ms Mnganga-Gcabashe also urged the department to set clear guidelines and milestones on when it intends to present the Tourism Amendment Act before the committee and when it will be introduced as an act of law.
In its presentation, SAT stated that its 2025–2030 strategic mission is to enhance South Africa's profile as leading regional, continental and global tourism destination. This it will achieve by ensuring that its platforms provide a high quality and inclusive visitor experience, while ensuring organisational excellence and a high-performance culture along with knowledge-driven marketing and quality assurance strategies.
Ms Mnganga-Gcabashe reiterated that digital marketing should be at the core of SAT's marketing strategy given its unparallel reach in disseminating tourism products and assets regionally, continentally and globally.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Nelson Mandela Bay sails to cruise industry growth
Nelson Mandela Bay sails to cruise industry growth
The strong working relationship between the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) and local tour guides and operators, has proven to be the key driving force for the booming cruise tourism industry within the city.
According to the Tourist Guide Association of Mandela Bay (TGAMB), which represents the tour guides and operators within Nelson Mandela Bay, the industry has seen drastic growth post-COVID-19, due to the ongoing good working relationship with the municipality.
Luxolo Kanti confirmed that huge strides have been made within the tourism industry, with the "cruise industry as the catalyst and gateway” to the region’s broader tourism growth.
Kanti noted that the association, working with the municipality to rebuild the cruise industry, has seen more diversity and inclusiveness.
“A lot of emerging tour guides and operators have managed to get into the industry and thrive. Through a number of training programmes and workshops we have received on areas like Digital Marketing, Tourism Best Practice and Packaging of Cruise Tourism in South Africa, we have managed to acquire skills to market both the city and our businesses to attract more people to venture into the cruise tourism experience across the world,” he said.
Kanti also commended the municipality’s openness to the industry’s advice and contributions in policy development.
"In as much as we have made strides, there are still areas we need to improve on, both as the industry and the municipality, so that we can be competitive against other major cities.”
Successes
Highlighting the success of the current cruise season, NMBM mayor, Babalwa Lobishe said Nelson Mandela Bay has already received 34 cruise vessels which docked at the city’s ports, from the 45 scheduled for the season which started in November last year.
“In March alone, there has been seven cruise vessel dock-ins and five overnight stays, with three vessels still expected for this month. During the current cruise season, there will be 15 cruise vessels that will stay for more than one day. The cruise vessels for this season are expected to spend a combined total of 61 days,” Lobishe said.
The mayor also announced that the current cruise season is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region, with a forecasted R100 million in economic spin-offs, an increase from R85 million during the 2023/24 season.
“This forecast is based on the anticipated 50 000 passengers who will be spending on tours, dining, shopping, and other cultural and heritage experiences across Nelson Mandela Bay. This influx of visitors will not only boost our local economy but also showcase the rich diversity and vibrant culture of our city,” the mayor said.
Appeal
In line with the city’s Tourism Master Plan, several initiatives are being pursued to enhance the region’s tourism appeal. These include the development of new cultural and heritage routes, the promotion of township tourism through community forums, and the expansion of events strategies aimed at attracting international visitors.
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture, Bassie Kamana, emphasised the municipality’s commitment to ensuring that the city remains a top destination for tourists and a thriving community for the residents.
According to Kamana, part of the work that the NMBM Tourism Sub-Directorate is doing is to create a conducive environment for the cruise industry to optimise on regional economic opportunities.
“Working with the vast tourism industry stakeholders, the metro encourages passengers to explore the full breadth of the region, including private game reserves, cultural and heritage sites, and local businesses.
“This is done to make sure that passengers do not just sleep over in the metro, but spend funds, explore and experience the region’s tourist attractions and create unforgettable memories,” Kamana said.
The MMC added that working with its development entity Mandela Bay Development Agency, Transnet, Eastern Cape Tourism, and other stakeholders, it has made strategic infrastructure investments to improve port facilities, tourism products and heritage sites. This is so as to ensure a seamless and welcoming experience for cruise tourists.
The NMBM has also paid special attention to tourist safety and hospitality by training and recruiting youth with a tourism background to work as tourism ambassadors. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 12:53
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Confirmed Speakers for the 3rd International African Energy, Oil, and Gas Summit 2024
African Peace Magazine UK (https://AfricanPeace.org/) is honoured to announce the distinguished line-up of speakers for the 3rd International African Energy, Oil, and Gas Summit, set to take place from October 23rd to 25th, 2024, at Hilton, Windhoek, Rev. Michael Scott Street, Windhoek, Namibia. This summit brings together some of the most influential leaders, industry experts, and change-makers in the energy sector across Africa. These individuals have significantly shaped their respective industries and will contribute profound insights into Africa's energy future. The Charity Golf Tournament and other Tour activities would commence from the 26th to the 30th of October 2024. The Speakers are;
- Hon. Justice Suleiman Galadima (JSC, OFR, CFR, Rtd) – Chairman of the Board, African Peace Magazine UK
Hon. Justice Galadima is a revered figure in Nigeria's legal community, having served as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. He is known for his unwavering commitment to justice and governance in Africa. As Chairman of African Peace Magazine, Justice Galadima plays a critical role in fostering dialogue around peace, security, and development across the continent.
- HRH Sir David Serena-Dokubo Spiff – Ada IX, Paramount Ruler of Spiff Town, Bayelsa State
HRH Sir David Serena-Dokubo Spiff is a prominent traditional leader from Bayelsa State, Nigeria. His deep commitment to the socio-economic advancement of his people and his influence on the region's energy and resource management make him a vital voice at the summit. He actively advocates for responsible management of natural resources in his community.
- Dr. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun – Chairperson, United Africa Group, Namibia
Dr. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun is a powerful figure in Namibia's business sector and beyond. As the Chairperson of United Africa Group, she has been a driving force behind several large-scale projects in hospitality, real estate, and renewable energy. Her leadership in advancing Africa's energy landscape and sustainable development strategies is exemplary.
- Abiola Metilelu – CEO, PressPayNG
Abiola Metilelu leads PressPayNG, a groundbreaking fintech company that offers education financing solutions. Under his leadership, PressPayNG is bridging the financial gap for students across Nigeria, directly impacting the education and energy sectors by creating a more skilled workforce for the future.
- Dr. Udochu Ogbonnaya – Executive Director, Green Energy International Ltd (GEIL)
A visionary in Nigeria's oil and gas industry, Dr. Udochu Ogbonnaya is shaping the future of sustainable energy in Africa. As the Executive Director of GEIL, he drives innovation in the extraction and development of energy resources while maintaining a focus on environmental responsibility.
- Mrs. Frieda Tunyoleni Amuela – Extractive Industry Law Expert
Mrs Amuela is a respected expert in the legal frameworks governing Africa's extractive industries. Her insights into compliance and legal challenges in oil and gas operations have made her a sought-after voice in regulatory discussions. Her work ensures that Africa's natural resources are managed with accountability and transparency.
- Mr. Immanuel Mulunga – Former MD, National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR)
Mr. Mulunga is a seasoned expert in Namibia's oil and gas industry, having held key leadership roles, including serving as Managing Director of NAMCOR. His deep understanding of petroleum resource management in Namibia and his strategic leadership have had lasting impacts on the country's energy landscape.
- Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke – Director-General/CEO, National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA)
Engr. Woke leads NOSDRA, Nigeria's primary agency responsible for monitoring and responding to oil spills. His efforts in promoting environmental sustainability in the face of oil extraction activities have been instrumental in safeguarding Nigeria's ecological future.
- Professor Geoffrey Shakwa – Founder & MD, Anti-Corruption Education Consultancy
Professor Shakwa is a staunch advocate for anti-corruption measures in Africa, having founded the Anti-Corruption Education Consultancy. His work aims to educate and promote transparency, which is critical for sustainable development in Africa's energy sectors.
- Mr Tassius Chigariro – Chief Executive Officer, Old Mutual Namibia
Tassius Chigariro heads Old Mutual Namibia, a leading financial services company. His strategic expertise in investments and financial management has made Old Mutual a key player in supporting economic growth in Namibia and throughout Africa's energy sectors.
- Dr. Joseph Tolorunse – Authority Secretary and Legal Adviser, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA)
Dr. Tolorunse brings a wealth of knowledge in regulatory frameworks, ensuring Nigeria's midstream and downstream petroleum sectors operate within best practices and international standards. His work strengthens Nigeria's position as a key player in the global energy market.
- Olusegun Ilori (Esq) – Executive Director, Green Energy International Ltd (GEIL)
A legal expert in energy law, Olusegun Ilori has been instrumental in shaping GEIL's business strategy, ensuring compliance with global energy regulations while advocating for sustainable practices.
- Engr. Sunday Babalola – Executive Director, Green Energy International Ltd (GEIL)
Engr. Babalola's expertise in engineering and operations has been pivotal to GEIL's success in executing oil and gas projects with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
- Alh. Auwalu Abdullahi Rano (OON) – Founder & CEO, A.A. Rano Nigeria
Alh. Rano is a prominent entrepreneur in Nigeria's oil and gas sector, with his company, A.A. Rano, being a leading player in petroleum marketing and distribution. His business acumen has significantly contributed to Nigeria's energy supply chain.
- Prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe – CEO, Green Energy International Ltd (GEIL) & Former SA to the President of Energy
Prof. Adegbulugbe is a renowned energy expert with a wealth of experience in energy policy and management. As CEO of GEIL, he is at the forefront of pushing Africa towards a greener energy future.
- Dr. Martin Harris – Senior Geosciences Researcher, University of Namibia
Martin Harris is a leading geoscientist in Namibia, focusing on energy resource exploration and development. His research and contributions have enhanced the understanding of Namibia's geological wealth.
- HRM Makitu III – Kingdom of Kongo, Angola
As the traditional ruler of the Kingdom of Kongo, HRM Makitu III is a respected leader who advocates for the preservation and responsible use of natural resources within his kingdom, including energy resources that are key to Angola's economic development.
- Engr. Wole Ogunsanya (FNSE) – Chairman/CEO, Geoplex Drillteq Limited
Engr. Ogunsanya leads Geoplex Drillteq, a company offering cutting-edge drilling solutions for Africa's oil and gas industry. His leadership in innovation has made Geoplex a leader in the sector, offering technological solutions that enhance efficiency. Engr. Wole Ogunsanya is the current Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria. PETAN is an association of Nigerian Indigenous Technical Oilfield service companies in the upstream and downstream. PETAN is the primary trade and advocacy association of the oil and natural gas industry in Nigeria, representing nearly 100 members involved in various aspects of petroleum.
- Mr. Tarah N. Shaanika – CEO, Namibia Asset Management
Tarah Shaanika oversees Namibia Asset Management, a leading investment company in Namibia. His experience in financial management and investment has propelled the company into playing a crucial role in funding energy and infrastructure projects in Namibia.
- Aggrey Ashaba – General Manager, Alliad, Uganda
Aggrey Ashaba is a business leader with deep expertise in the oil, gas, mining, and energy sectors. As General Manager of Alliad in Uganda, he plays a key role in driving the country's energy strategy, focusing on sustainable development.
- Daniel Tuyoleni Williams – CEO, Mind Space Consults
Williams is a respected business consultant whose firm, Mind Space Consults, provides strategic insights and advisory services in energy and business development across Africa, helping companies navigate complex markets and regulatory environments.
- Alh. Saleh Baba Rano
A key player in Nigeria's oil and gas sector, Alh. Saleh Baba Rano has been instrumental in the growth and development of the sector, bringing strategic insights and leadership to discussions around energy in Africa.
- Abimbola Okoya – Founder, Basic Education Africa
Abimbola Okoya is a passionate advocate for education in Africa, founding Basic Education Africa to provide accessible learning opportunities to underserved communities. Her work directly impacts the future of Africa's workforce, particularly in the energy and technology sectors.
- Professor Jude Osakwe – Faculty of Computing and Informatics, Namibia University of Science and Technology
Professor Jude Osakwe is a prominent academic and researcher with a focus on Data Governance, Data Analytics, ICT in Education, and ICT for Development (ICT4D). He holds various professional certifications in project management, big data analytics, business intelligence, and digital marketing. His extensive research work and involvement in international conferences make him a vital contributor to discussions on the integration of ICT into development strategies across Africa. Professor Osakwe's dedication to bridging the gap between theory and practical implementation of ICT solutions has positioned him as a respected figure in the academic and business sectors.
- M. Jinot Razafimamonjy – Director of Hydrocarbons, Ministry of Energy and Hydrocarbons, Madagascar
M. Jinot Razafimamonjy serves as the Director of Hydrocarbons in Madagascar's Ministry of Energy and Hydrocarbons. His leadership in managing the country's hydrocarbon resources has been instrumental in driving economic growth and ensuring sustainable development in the energy sector. His participation at the summit will provide critical insights into Madagascar's approach to energy management and its vision for the future of its oil and gas industry.
- S P Jika Ogbeche – Assistant Comptroller General (ACG), Air Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)**
S P Jika Ogbeche holds a senior leadership role within the Nigeria Immigration Service, overseeing the Air Border Division. His extensive experience in managing Nigeria's air borders and contributing to national security efforts will bring a unique perspective to discussions on energy security and the role of governance in the sector.
- Engr. Farouk Ahmed – Authority Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA)
Engr. Farouk Ahmed is at the helm of Nigeria's NMDPRA, playing a critical role in regulating and ensuring the sustainable development of Nigeria's midstream and downstream petroleum sectors. His leadership has been instrumental in modernizing the regulatory framework, promoting investment, and ensuring energy security in one of Africa's most important energy markets.
- Dr. Lloyd C. Williams – United States of America
Dr. Lloyd C. Williams is an esteemed expert in the fields of energy and sustainability, hailing from the United States. With a distinguished career marked by contributions to both the public and private sectors, Dr. Williams is dedicated to advancing clean energy initiatives and fostering innovation in oil and gas. His global perspective will add invaluable insights into the discussions at the summit.
- Mr. Tassius Chigariro – Chief Executive Officer, Old Mutual Namibia
As the CEO of Old Mutual Namibia, Mr. Tassius Chigariro is a key figure in the financial services sector, driving initiatives that support sustainable investments in energy and infrastructure. His experience in leading one of Africa's most reputable financial institutions positions him as an influential voice in the intersection of energy finance and economic development.
- Cydolian Raveloson – Acting Director General, Madagascar Hydrocarbons Office
Cydolian Raveloson is the Acting Director General of Madagascar's Hydrocarbons Office, where he plays a pivotal role in managing the country's energy resources. His efforts are focused on ensuring the efficient exploitation and management of Madagascar's oil and gas reserves, contributing to both the nation's economic growth and energy security.
These esteemed speakers join an already impressive lineup, including leading figures from government, academia, and the private sector, all dedicated to advancing Africa's energy future. Their participation is set to elevate the summit's discussions, fostering meaningful collaborations and forward-thinking strategies.
"The diverse group of speakers at the upcoming IAEOG Summit 2024 reflects our heartfelt commitment to inspiring discussions that lead to tangible outcomes. These industry leaders are passionate about finding ways to alleviate poverty, create job opportunities, and enhance our GDP. Together, we envision a transformative event that enlightens the public and fosters collaborative efforts, ultimately driving meaningful change for the betterment of our communities."- Chairman Hon. Justice Suleiman Galadima JSC, CFR, OFR (Rtd.)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Peace Magazine.
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National Basketball Association (NBA) Africa Announces Four Prize-Winning Companies at First Startup Accelerator Demo Day
Festival Coins (Nigeria), Salubata (Nigeria), HustleSasa (Kenya) and UBR VR (Egypt) Win Top Prizes, including Financial Support and Mentorship; Paystack Payments Ltd., Kuramo Capital Management and Nigerian University of Technology and Management Join Demo Day as NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator's First Official Partners (www.NBA.com).
NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum today announced the four prize-winning startup businesses from “NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator” (http://apo-opa.co/3ZLmNoC), which NBA Africa launched in April 2024 to support the continent's technology ecosystem and the next generation of African entrepreneurs. The four winning businesses – Festival Coins (Nigeria), Salubata (Nigeria), HustleSasa (Kenya) and UBR VR (Egypt) – will be awarded financial support and mentorship, including an opportunity to participate in workshops and development programs facilitated by NBA Africa or its partners.
The 10 finalists, shortlisted from more than 700 early-stage African startup businesses that applied to participate, pitched their products to a panel of international industry leaders at a Demo Day at the NBA headquarters in New York City yesterday. The judges included Accelerate Africa Co-Founder and CEO Iyinoluwa Aboyeji; NBA Assistant General Counsel, Technology, Software Licensing and Digital Platforms Franciscus Diaba; Managing Director, Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Rwanda Crystal Rugege; Chegg Inc. Executive Chairman Dan Rosensweig; and Partner at Development Partners International Joanne Yoo. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also delivered opening remarks and met the 10 finalists.
Below are the four winning businesses:
- Festival Coins (Nigeria), an event technology company that offers a customizable, no-code event registration and ticketing platform called Tix Africa for events in Nigeria and Ghana, won the first-place prize and $50,000.
- Salubata (Nigeria), a company that creates modular shoes repurposed from plastic waste to reduce the global carbon footprint through its environmentally friendly products, won the second-place prize and $40,000.
- HustleSasa (Kenya), which provides live event services that support payment processing, attendee check-in, merchandise sales, customer data management, influencer tracking, and more, won the third-place prize and $30,000.
- UBR VR (Egypt), which delivers state-of-the-art, fully immersive, in-person virtual reality (VR) experiences across Egypt, won the fourth-place prize and $20,000.
The six other finalists each received a $10,000 prize.
The Demo Day was supported by three official partners: Paystack Payment Ltd. (http://apo-opa.co/3XHn75j), Kuramo Capital Management (http://apo-opa.co/3ZGroJ2) and Nigerian University of Technology and Management (NUTM) (http://apo-opa.co/3XHn1dX).
“Congratulations to all of the incredibly talented entrepreneurs who participated in this year's program, with special recognition to the 10 finalists and four distinguished winners,” said NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi. “These outstanding companies have demonstrated the creativity, drive and determination to shape the future of sport in Africa and will help the continent take its rightful place on the world stage. We look forward to following their successes for many years to come.”
“NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator” is open to early-stage startups in Africa that develop solutions in event management and ticketing, youth development, AI, and digital marketing.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).
About NBA Africa:
NBA Africa is an affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a global sports and media organization with the mission to inspire and connect people everywhere through the power of basketball. NBA Africa conducts the league's business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and has opened subsidiary offices in Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya. The league's efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through youth and elite development, social responsibility, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, NBA Stores, the BAL, and more.
NBA games and programming are available in all 54 African countries, and the NBA has hosted three sold-out exhibition games on the continent since 2015. The BAL, a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that concluded its fourth season in June 2024. Fans can follow @ NBA_Africa (https://apo-opa.co/3XytCXW) and @ theBAL (https://apo-opa.co/3N01pod) on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
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National Basketball Association (NBA) Africa Announces Finalists for Triple-Double Startup Accelerator Demo Day
NBA Africa (www.NBA.com) today announced the 10 startup companies from seven African countries that have been selected to pitch their products to a panel of international industry leaders at a Demo Day at the NBA headquarters in New York City on Wednesday, Sept. 25 as part of “Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator (http://apo-opa.co/47lTICe),” which the league launched in April 2024 to support Africa's technology ecosystem and the next generation of African entrepreneurs.
The panel will then determine the four winning companies that will be awarded financial support and mentorship, including an opportunity to participate in workshops and development programs facilitated by NBA Africa or its partners. Below are the 10 startups that will compete for the four prize-winning spots.
- Backrest (Rwanda) provides a wearable technology solution called WristWrist for venues and event organizers to facilitate cashless payments at event venues. WristWrist provides a payment system whereby attendees can load money onto wristbands before an event and spend it at the event venue through seamless, quick transactions.
- Buzza (Nigeria) helps sports organizations improve their operations through digital solutions, including enabling organizations to transition from paper-based to digital management, setting up websites, collecting payment, and growing revenue. Athletes can also sign up for the platform to track their matches and scores and build their profiles to become more prominent sports figures and influencers across Africa.
- Festival Coins (Nigeria) is an event technology company that offers a customizable, no-code event registration and ticketing platform called Tix Africa for events in Nigeria and Ghana. It enables event organizers to sell tickets online, process payments, and handle on-site registrations.
- Gara (Côte d'Ivoire) is a pan-African video gaming and comics platform that encourages and facilitates the distribution of digital entertainment experiences on the continent. Through culturally relevant products, including games featuring local celebrities and adaptable payment systems for local currencies, Gara aims to facilitate greater reach and monetization of the creative and cultural industries on the continent.
- HustleSasa (Kenya) provides live event services that support payment processing, attendee check-in, merchandise sales, customer data management, influencer tracking, and more.
- Naemo Global (Nigeria) aims to revolutionize sports scouting on the African continent through its proprietary scouting software Afriskaut, which utilizes data analytics and AI. The Afriskaut platform processes football match videos and extracts critical data, which it makes available to clients via a platform and application programming interface (API) to support scouting the next generation of elite talent.
- Power to Girls Foundation (Ghana) provides a social connection and mentorship platform called My Power App dedicated to empowering and supporting girls and women ages 13-20. The platform provides educational resources, connects users with mentors, offers a confidential helpline, and fosters a supportive community of like-minded girls, addressing critical growth areas such as education, mental health, and personal development.
- Salubata (Nigeria) creates modular shoes repurposed from plastic waste. With a global patent and two design rights for its innovation, the company aims to reduce the global carbon footprint through its environmentally friendly products.
- UBR VR (Egypt) delivers state-of-the-art, fully immersive, in-person virtual reality (VR) experiences across Egypt. Its rich historical and fantasy VR worlds are culturally relevant and localized, allowing players to roam freely in enclosed spaces and interact with each other in a designated play area. These VR experiences are unparalleled in the country and foster a sense of connection to both the local community and fellow players.
- Vambo Technologies (South Africa) provides a digital language technology platform that leverages AI to provide real-time translation, content creation, and language learning technology. Not only does Vambo AI offer widely spoken languages such as Amharic, Yoruba, French and Portuguese, it also offers more niche languages spoken across Africa to facilitate true digital inclusion on the continent.
“We have been inspired by the level of talent and creativity from all of the applicants, and we congratulate the 10 deserving finalists who will showcase their innovative solutions at Demo Day later this month,” said NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi. “NBA Africa is committed to supporting the continued growth of startups on the continent, including the four prize-winners whose innovative solutions will further elevate the sport and creative industries in Africa for years to come.”
Operated by ALX Ventures, “Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator” was open to early-stage startups in Africa that develop solutions in event management and ticketing, youth development, AI, and digital marketing. The initiative will support Africa's tech ecosystem and the next generation of African tech entrepreneurs by providing them with access to mentorship and capital that will help drive growth in the sports and creative industries.
The four prize-winning startups will be announced at Demo Day.
Video (http://apo-opa.co/4d2bY4w): Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator Reveals 10 Finalists for Demo Day
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).
Contact:
Pawel Weszka
NBA Africa Communications
pweszka@nba.com
+27 10 0072666
About NBA Africa:
NBA Africa is an affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a global sports and media organization with the mission to inspire and connect people everywhere through the power of basketball. NBA Africa conducts the league's business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and has opened subsidiary offices in Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya. The league's efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through youth and elite development, social responsibility, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, NBA Stores, the BAL, and more.
NBA games and programming are available in all 54 African countries, and the NBA has hosted three sold-out exhibition games on the continent since 2015. The BAL, a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that concluded its fourth season in June 2024. Fans can follow @ NBA_Africa and @ theBAL on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube
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“We believe that Under One Roof is the most intelligent, powerful, transparent, and streamlined real estate game-changer since property listings went online in the late 90s,” emphasises Krawchuk. “The team at Under One Roof is intentional about manifesting change in the market by filling the gaps that have been prevalent for too long. And, while others may think we are a disruptor, we disagree! We prefer to think of ourselves as renegades by challenging the existing, staid, and unadventurous status quo.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Under One Roof.
About Under One Roof:
Under One Roof (www.UnderOneRoof.co.za) is reinventing the property listing experience by delivering a one-to-one personalisation online platform for agents, buyers, sellers, and renters. It has developed a unique South African approach to all thing's property-focused, including lifestyle, with its presentation of a combination of digital and human interactions. Under One Roof is a compelling property hub that speaks to, and inspires, a new generation of property stakeholders.
Headquarters: Pretoria, South Africa
For more information, please visit our website: www.UnderOneRoof.co.za
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