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479 new cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria; Lagos-153 Enugu-75 Rivers-50 FCT-40 Kaduna-18 Ebonyi-17 Plateau-17 Edo-17 Borno-16 Oyo-12 Kano-11 Abia-10 Cross River-10 Taraba-9 Nasarawa-7 Bauchi-4 Bayelsa-3 Delta-3 Ekiti-2 Niger-2 Ogun-2 Akwa Ibom-1Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).Media filesDownload logo

Coronavirus – Nigeria: COVID-19 update (2 March 2021)

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Download logoMinister of Health Lizzie Nkosi COVID-19 update on 02 March 2021: New cases: 61 Total cases: 17,086 Active cases: 1,475 New recoveries: 98 Total recoveries: 14,898Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health, Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini.

Coronavirus – Eswatini: COVID-19 update (2 March 2021)

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Download logoThe European Union and the European Investment Bank, working together as Team Europe, are providing EUR 120 million (KES 15.8 billion) of new support for Equity Bank to enhance financing to Kenyan companies most impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. The financing package will support access to finance at appropriate conditions for Kenyan SMEs, including in the agriculture sector, through €100 million loans from the European Investment Bank to Equity Bank and €20 million of European Union (EU) grant support.  New technical assistance, backed by the European Union, will further strengthen Equity Bank’s capacity to assess, execute and monitor longer-term agricultural value chains investment projects and further develop provision of long-term financing for agriculture. “As an inclusive regional financial institution these facilities strengthen Equity’s position to further enhance the strength of MSMEs which are key actors in value chains and ecosystems in the economy. By ensuring their survival and growth the MSMEs will continue to protect jobs, create more jobs and support lives and livelihoods in society, serving to create resilience as the pandemic subsides, vaccines become available in Kenya, and market growth returns. We value our long-term partnership with the EIB and the European Union who have walked with us and our customers on our path for sustained human development for many years including their investment to scale Kilimo Biashara. We thank them for supporting our efforts to strengthen the role of MSMEs to stimulate the economy back to prosperity, and hence support lives and livelihoods through market growth.” said Dr. James Mwangi,  Group Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Equity Group Holdings Plc. “New EIB and EU support for leading Kenyan partner Equity Bank will help entrepreneurs, business and agricultural small holders across Kenya to access finance and better withstand the economic challenges and business uncertainties caused by COVID-19. Today’s new agreements demonstrate Team Europe and Kenya joining forces to beat COVID and help business flourish.” said Thomas Östros, Vice President of the European Investment Bank. “The EU is working to revamp our cooperation with our African partners to tackle the common challenges that affect people’s lives, in particular the youth. We want to build back better together from the COVID-19 pandemic to guarantee a sustainable, green and just recovery. The SME sector is a lifeline for employment, including for the most vulnerable populations and in particular in critical sectors such as agriculture. Agreements like the one signed today to support Kenyan SMEs to mitigate the negative impact of COVID-19 and will help us to achieve this.” said Jutta Urpilainen, Commissioner for International Partnerships. “The EU and EIB support to Small and Medium Enterprises will directly support Kenyan entrepreneurs and farmers who need this financing to cushion them from the effects of COVID-19. This is a true testament of our friendship with the people and the Government of Kenya.”  said Simon Mordue, European Union Ambassador to Kenya. Kenya’s National Treasury observed a downturn growth rate from 6.1 % to 2.5 % in 2020, making it the worst year for the country in more than a decade. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which sustain the highest proportion of employment in the region, are the most vulnerable with limited access to external financing.  The Kenya – Team Europe COVID-19 Response Access to Finance and Kenya Agriculture Value Chain Facility initiatives were formally signed in Equity Bank HQ Nairobi at a COVID-19 compliant event attended by the European Union Ambassador to Kenya, EIB Regional Representative in East Africa and Kenyan stakeholders. EIB Vice President Thomas Östros participated remotely. Improving access to finance by agriculture Agriculture contributes about 51% to Kenya’s GDP (26% directly and another 25% indirectly), 60% of employment and 65% of the exports. Growth of agriculture based economic activity is constrained by limited long-term financing, which delays its development and modernization. Increasing private sector access to long-term financing is crucial to unlock development potential across all sectors impacted by the COVID19 pandemic, including agriculture and agricultural value chains. Enhancing economic resilience of Kenyan business of COVID-19 The new private sector financing initiative unveiled today will strengthen access to finance by Kenyan SMEs and boost business resilience at a time of global economic slowdown and investment uncertainty. In addition, the new cooperation with Equity Bank will stimulate investment, creating decent jobs and contributing to the country’s recovery efforts and sustainable development. The programme announced today is part of the larger €300 million EU response to the COVID-19 crisis in Kenya and targeted EIB support for economic resilience across Africa. Other partnerships with banks to provide access to finance may be forthcoming. Strengthening cooperation with leading Kenyan financial institutions Equity Bank is the largest partner for EIB backed private sector support in Kenya.  Over the last 10 years, the EIB has worked with 17 Kenyan banks and financial institutions to increased access to finance by entrepreneurs, small holders and business expansion through targeted credit lines and financing initiatives. Since 1976 the European Investment Bank has provided more than €1.5 billion of financing to support private and public investment across Kenya. Background information The EU and Kenya have a long-standing partnership. The EU&#39;s cooperation with Kenya amounts to €435 million for the period 2014-2020, covering the sectors of Job Creation and Resilience, Sustainable Infrastructure and Governance. The country is also supported by the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa; with over €58.3 million for 2015-2019. Today’s announcement illustrates the commitment of the EU and its Member States present in Kenya in supporting the country’s main objectives outlined in the ‘Big 4 Agenda’. In 2018, the second phase of the Joint Programming strategy was signed, seeking to boost manufacturing, food and nutrition, security, affordable housing and universal health coverage. Team Europe&#39;s total global response to COVID-19 stands at almost €38.5 billion, combining resources from the EU, its Member States, the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Around €8 billion of this assistance is designated to African countries. The programme announced today is part of the larger €300 million EU response to the COVID-19 crisis in Kenya. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of European Investment Bank (EIB).

Team Europe partners with Equity Bank to support Kenyan business and agriculture amid COVID-19

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Download logoMinisters of Health from Guinea – which is combating a new Ebola outbreak – and neighbouring countries have agreed on a unified front to combat the virus that re-emerged about three weeks ago. The meeting was opened by His Excellency, the Prime Minister of Guinea, Dr Ibrahima Kassory Fofana in Guinea’s capital, Conakry on 2 March. Ministers and government representatives from Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Senegal and Sierra Leone attended the inter-ministerial meeting. “If in 2014 Guinea and the neighbouring countries were victims of Ebola, this time around Guinea and the region are resolutely facing up to Ebola,” said H.E. the Prime Minister. The ministers agreed in a final declaration to set up a coordination mechanism, enhance cross-border collaboration, including working with communities, to support the efforts in containing the virus. They also agreed to facilitate import regulations for vaccines and drugs as well as promote measures that were effective in bringing the 2014–2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa under control. Guinea declared an outbreak on 14 February after cases were confirmed positive for Ebola in a rural community in N’Zerekore prefecture, which lies near the border with Cote d’Ivoire and Liberia. As of 2 March, 17 cases (13 confirmed, 4 probable) had been reported. “We are greatly encouraged by the common front taken by Guinea’s neighbours to tackle this outbreak. We know from experience how much this is critical in fighting Ebola,” said Dr Abdou Salam Gueye, Regional Emergency Director at the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa. “With close cross-border trade and social ties, we cannot ignore the importance of regional approaches against health crises.” In support of Guinea’s health authorities, WHO and partner organizations have ramped up response to the outbreak. Ebola vaccinations were launched just nine days after the outbreak was declared. To date 1317 people have been vaccinated and 32 000 vaccines doses have so far been delivered. All the six countries bordering Guinea are stepping up readiness. Surveillance and screening are being stepped up at border crossing points and in high-risk communities. Rapid response teams are being deployed to border areas to support preparedness plans of health districts. Testing and treatment facilities are being scaled up and work to ensure communities take full ownership and rally around public health responses is underway.Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

West African health ministers in joint fight against Ebola

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The Union of OIC News Agencies (UNA) and the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) through THIQAH (IsDB Group Business Forum) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) on the achievement of common objectives and serving the issues that facilitate cooperation and enhance integration between the two parties. The MoC was co-signed virtually today by the CEO of the ICD, Mr. Ayman Amin Sejiny, and Acting UNA Director-General, Mr. Ahmed bin Abdullah Al-Qarni. The agreement aims to lay the foundations for cooperation between the two parties in the field of media and news coverage of the activities and initiatives of the IsDB Group Private Sector entities, as well as coordinating with national news agencies in the OIC countries to publish news and assure media coverage in the three official languages (Arabic, English and French). It is also meant for exchanging information and consultations in the areas of joint action, coordinating related activities and events, and cooperating in organizing workshops, training sessions and specialized media forums. The MoC further provides for transfer of knowledge and information and exchange of experiences between the two parties, where THIQAH (a function managed by ICD, as delegated by the IsDB Group) shall provide the Union with various reports and studies prepared by the IsDB Group Private Sector entities on their activities. In turn, the Union shall prepare media reports and news stories based on the contents and materials provided by THIQAH. Mr. Sejiny welcomed the establishment of this strategic partnership with the Union and strengthening cooperation in the field of media and news coverage, which will contribute to publicizing the activities and services of the IsDB Group and promote trade, investment and insurance in the member countries. For his part, Mr. Al-Qarni highlighted that the MoC contributes to laying the ground for cooperation between the two parties in the areas of media, improving the developmental and economic skills of media professionals, news coverage of the activities and initiatives of the IsDB Group Private Sector entities. He added that the agreement also contributes to forging cooperation in producing reports and media content that shed light on the development activities in the OIC countries. The two institutions also agreed to assess progress made in achieving the overall objective of the MoC and to consider ways to effectively and efficiently implement its provisions, to harness the capabilities of both parties in serving the private sector in the member states. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Group (IsDB Group).About the Islamic Development Bank Group Business Forum (THIQAH): The Islamic Development Bank Group Business Forum (THIQAH) (www.IDBGBF.org) is the window of the IsDB Group that facilitate contact and coordination between entities concerned of the IsDB Group and private sector firms and related institutions in IsDB Group member countries. The main objective of THIQAH is to establish a unique platform for effective dialogue, cooperation and inclusive partnership for business leaders committed to partnering in promising investment opportunities. Through facilitation and catalyst roles, THIQAH will be leveraging IsDB Group’s resources to offer necessary services and confidence to investors and to establish strategic partnerships with the leaders of the private sector. The primary focus will be on maximizing cross-border investment among member countries to be supported by IsDB Group&#39;s financial products and services. (www.IDBGBF.org). About the Union of OIC News Agencies (UNA): The Union of OIC News Agencies (UNA) (http://www.UNA-OIC.org) is a specialized body affiliated with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, which works as a media arm for the OIC. The Union serves as an umbrella for national news agencies in the member states, a house of expertise and a training center, which invokes the objectives and principles of the OIC Charter. The Union has a legal personality (an international specialized body), based in Jeddah, west of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. UNA (formerly the International Islamic News Agency &#8220;IINA&#8221;) was established under the resolution issued by the 3rd Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers (CFM) held in Jeddah in February/March 1972, in implementation of the resolution of the 2nd CFM held in Karachi, Pakistan. In its 5th Session held in Jeddah on 15 October 2017, the IINA General Assembly approved the transformation of the Agency into UNA, referred to herein as the &#8220;Union&#8221;, and represented in this agreement by Acting Director-General Mr. Ahmed bin Abdullah Al-Qarni. (http://www.UNA-OIC.org). Media filesDownload logo

The Union of OIC News Agencies (UNA) and ICD through THIQAH (IsDB Group Business Forum) sign MoC to enhance cooperation in media field

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The Royal Academy of Engineering (www.RAEng.org.uk), an engineering charity focused on harnessing the power of engineering to build a sustainable society and an inclusive economy, is showcasing its impact on enhancing collaboration, education, and diversity in engineering in sub-Saharan Africa, delivered through its Africa grants programmes ahead of the second UNESCO World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development on 4 March 2021. The achievements of the Africa grants programmes include: 	Over 2000 professionals trained by Professional Engineering Institutions across sub-Saharan Africa. 	Over 530 student industry placements since 2013. Number of students obtaining industry internships increased from 40% to 90% over the course of one project in Zambia 	Diversity &#038; Inclusion initiatives have driven equal gender participation in programmes. A project from the Institute of Engineers Rwanda helped to increase the number of female internship applicants from 5% in 2018 to 25% in 2019. 	50 individual course curricula reviewed and improved as a result of industry-academia partnerships. 	Almost 50 UK organisations and 400 in-country bodies involved as project partners so far. In celebration of World Engineering Day, the Academy is also releasing a series of videos (http://bit.ly/3kGb7Nr) highlighting how engineers play a critical role in meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The Academy is helping to develop innovative solutions to a range of impending and accelerating challenges. Working with local higher education and engineering organisations, it is helping to grow engineering capacity and support sustainable development across 23 countries in sub-Saharan Africa through two key programmes: Higher Education Partnerships in Sub-Saharan Africa (HEP SSA) and GCRF Africa Catalyst. The first, HEP SSA, provides industry secondments for lecturers, equipping them to teach in line with the latest industry standards, while placements help their students to develop practical skills, and give them a better understanding of project cycles and networking opportunities. The programme addresses the gap between theoretical engineering knowledge taught to students across sub-Saharan Africa and the practical application of such theory in industry. Through strong alliances with partner academic institutions, the Academy is helping to reshape teaching requirements and facilitate more opportunities. At the University of Zambia, this led to updating and aligning course content in line with industry requirements, while increasing the number of students obtaining industry internships from 40% to 90%. The GCRF Africa Catalyst programme leverages the Academy’s extensive network and expertise to strengthen national engineering organisations. More than £3.5 million has been awarded in 37 projects across 14 countries to help these bodies promote better training, diversity and sustainability. Launched in 2016, with support from the UK government’s Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF), the Africa Catalyst initiative allows engineers to focus on issues of specific importance to their relevant jurisdictions, while facilitating good governance practices. The Academy aims to support the development of a diverse and future fit workforce across the continent. It is estimated that fewer than 10% of engineering posts in Africa are currently occupied by women. GCRF Africa Catalyst has worked with Women in Engineering (WomEng) to promote gender diversity across a wide spectrum of professional experience. WomEng’s work with Eswatini’s Registration Council for Architects, Engineers, Surveyors and Allied Professionals has resulted in seven registered female members where they initially had none. A HEP SSA project with the Institute of Engineers Rwanda helped to increase the number of female internship applicants from 5% to 2018 to 25% in 2019. Commenting on the progress achieved, Yewande Akinola MBE, a member of the Royal Academy of Engineering GCRF Africa Catalyst Committee, said: “While we see immediate improvements in skills and innovation through these programmes, the real win is establishing a framework for lasting change. This will equip communities in Africa to anticipate and plan for the challenges posed by climate change, urbanisation and economic development. The continent is transforming rapidly, and those engineering its future need the skills to think on their feet. “By developing strong alliances between local partners in sub-Saharan Africa and the UK, we can enable learning, collaboration and sharing of best practice, which in turn will build skills to boost innovation​. But there is much more to be done, which needs the continued support of investors and partners.” Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Royal Academy of Engineering.For more information, imagery, or to arrange an interview please contact RAEng@gongcommunications.com or call + 44 (0)20 7935 4800 Royal Academy of Engineering Prince Philip House 3 Carlton House Terrace London SW1Y 5DG www.RAEng.org.uk jane.sutton@raeng.org.uk +44 207 766 0636 About the Royal Academy of Engineering: The Royal Academy of Engineering (www.RAEng.org.uk) harnesses the power of engineering to build a sustainable society and an inclusive economy that works for everyone. In collaboration with our Fellows and partners, we’re growing talent and developing skills for the future, driving innovation and building global partnerships, and influencing policy and engaging the public. Together we’re working to solve the greatest challenges of our age.  About Africa Grants: The Academy’s Africa Grants Programmes (https://bit.ly/385eBUB) facilitate learning and collaboration between engineers in sub-Saharan Africa and the UK to boost innovation and tackle shared challenges. The flagship programmes, HEP SSA and GCRF Africa Catalyst, connect engineers in industry and education from sub-Saharan Africa and the UK, creating strong alliances to support sustainable development. Its overall goal is to enhance social and economic development in Africa by enabling a diverse and future fit workforce. Media filesDownload logo

Royal Academy of Engineering reports impact on sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa ahead of World Engineering Day

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Download logoNBA (www.NBA.com) All-Stars Julius Randle, Domantas Sabonis and Nikola Vučević in Six-Player Field; HBCU Alum Robert Covington to Make Skills Challenge Debut; Competition to Take Place on Sunday, March 7 Before 2021 NBA All-Star Game. NBA All-Stars Luka Dončić of the Dallas Mavericks and Chris Paul of the Phoenix Suns will display their vast array of talents in the 2021 Taco Bell® Skills Challenge on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The Taco Bell® Skills Challenge will take place before the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, airing on TNT. Joining Dončić and Paul as 2021 NBA All-Stars in the field are New York Knicks forward Julius Randle, Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis and Orlando Magic center Nikola Vučević. The six-player competition also features Portland Trail Blazers forward Robert Covington. The 19th Taco Bell® Skills Challenge is an obstacle-course competition that tests players’ dribbling, passing, agility and 3-point shooting skills. The event is part of NBA All-Star 2021, which will take place on one night. TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage on March 7 will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage will begin at 8 p.m. ET, with AT&#038;T Slam Dunk taking place at halftime. Dončić, who was named an NBA All-Star Game starter for the second year in a row, joins Sabonis (the 2020 runner-up) and Vučević as second-time participants in the Taco Bell® Skills Challenge. Paul, an NBA All-Star selection for the 11th time, will make his record fifth appearance in the Taco Bell® Skills Challenge and his first since 2011. Randle and Covington will make their event debuts. Covington is in his eighth NBA season after not being selected in the 2013 NBA Draft. In the 2017-18 season, he was selected to the NBA All-Defensive First Team and ranked 11th in the league in 3-pointers made (203). Covington attended Tennessee State, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Nashville, Tenn. As part of NBA All-Star 2021, the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association will commit more than $2.5 million in funds and resources toward HBCUs and support and awareness around equity and access to COVID-19 care, relief and vaccines. On March 7, the league will also pay tribute to the vital role of HBCUs through music, content and storytelling. The Taco Bell® Skills Challenge is a three-round competition with a single-elimination tournament format. Two players will compete simultaneously on an identical course and the winner of each head-to-head matchup will advance to the next round. Two of the six participants, as chosen by the NBA, will receive a bye in the first round and automatically advance to the second round. First-round matchups will be announced at a later date. Click here (https://on.nba.com/3sQvV85) for a complete explanation of the rules. Below are the participants for the 2021 Taco Bell® Skills Challenge and a list of previous winners. 2021 TACO BELL® SKILLS CHALLENGE PARTICIPANTS 	 		 			 			Player 			 			 			Team 			 			 			Pos. 			 			 			Ht. 			 			 			Wt. 			 		 		 			 			Robert Covington 			 			 			Portland Trail Blazers 			 			 			F 			 			 			6-7 			 			 			209 			 		 		 			 			Luka Dončić 			 			 			Dallas Mavericks 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-7 			 			 			230 			 		 		 			 			Chris Paul 			 			 			Phoenix Suns 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-0 			 			 			175 			 		 		 			 			Julius Randle 			 			 			New York Knicks 			 			 			F 			 			 			6-9 			 			 			254 			 		 		 			 			Domantas Sabonis 			 			 			Indiana Pacers 			 			 			F 			 			 			6-11 			 			 			240 			 		 		 			 			Nikola Vučević 			 			 			Orlando Magic 			 			 			C 			 			 			6-11 			 			 			260 			 		 	 TACO BELL® SKILLS CHALLENGE WINNERS 	 		 			 			2003 – Jason Kidd, New Jersey 			 			 			2012 – Tony Parker, San Antonio 			 		 		 			 			2004 – Baron Davis, New Orleans 			 			 			2013 – Damian Lillard, Portland 			 		 		 			 			2005 – Steve Nash, Phoenix 			 			 			2014 – Trey Burke, Utah and Damian Lillard, Portland 			 		 		 			 			2006 – Dwyane Wade, Miami 			 			 			2015 – Patrick Beverley, Houston 			 		 		 			 			2007 – Dwyane Wade, Miami 			 			 			2016 – Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota 			 		 		 			 			2008 – Deron Williams, Utah 			 			 			2017 – Kristaps Porzingis, New York 			 		 		 			 			2009 – Derrick Rose, Chicago 			 			 			2018 – Spencer Dinwiddie, Brooklyn 			 		 		 			 			2010 – Steve Nash, Phoenix 			 			 			2019 – Jayson Tatum, Boston 			 		 		 			 			2011 – Stephen Curry, Golden State 			 			 			2020 – Bam Adebayo, Miami 			 		 	 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).About Taco Bell Corp.: For more information about Taco Bell (www.TacoBell.com), visit our website at www.TacoBell.com/news or at www.TacoBell.com/popular-links. You can also stay up to date on all things Taco Bell by following us on Facebook (https://bit.ly/2MFILGA), Instagram (https://bit.ly/3bcFSqe), Taco Bell’s Twitter (https://bit.ly/3kFh90K), Taco Bell News’ Twitter (https://bit.ly/3qbyjEG), TikTok (https://bit.ly/3reoMxI) and subscribing to our YouTube (https://bit.ly/3b8KoGm) channel. For updates on how Taco Bell is navigating COVID-19, click here (https://bit.ly/3e4WMJm).

NBA All-Stars Luka Dončić and Chris Paul Headline 2021 Taco Bell® Skills Challenge

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Download logoWHAT initially started as the fiercest race for the presidency of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has evolved into a peace treaty among the candidates vying for the position. This is anticipated to result in unity among the rivals and the betterment of the beautiful game in the largest confederation affiliated to the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA). The race that was initially among four candidates thus could culminate in South African businessman and club owner, Patrice Motsepe, emerging as the new CAF president. The elections for the presidency are set for Rabat, Morocco on March 12. Coincidentally, the Moroccan capital city has been the scene of a peace treaty among the contenders for the race to succeed disgraced Madagascan, Ahmad Ahmad, as the CAF president. Besides Mamelodi Sundowns owner Motsepe, other aspirants are Jacques Anouma (Ivory Coast), Senegalese Augustin Senghor and Ahmad Yahya from Mauritania. Fouzi Lekjaa, the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), has brokered the accord uniting the contenders. He recently invited the four candidates and encouraged them to pledge unity instead of further widening divisions triggered by the battle for votes. Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, has also been preaching unity among football leaders during his tour of several African countries. The CAF president is automatically a deputy to the FIFA leader. Sources close to the CAF presidential race confirmed that an agreement was settled and a document signed according to which the other candidates will support Motsepe. Senghor and Yahya would be his deputies while Anouma would be the presidential advisor. This arrangement would be unprecedented. Sources said Motsepe had emerged as the favourite for FIFA because of his untainted record and the fact that he has no links to the old management of CAF. “Patrice Motsepe is a man of word, principles and high moral standards,” a president of a sub-Saharan African football federation has been quoted as saying. “He (Motsepe) would never be in anyone’s service except for the 54 federations who compose CAF. He has a solid plan to bring CAF to the top of football world,” the federation president said. There is also belief that since he (Motsepe) is already wealthy, the billionaire businessman of Tswana descent is not aiming to enrich himself through the presidency of CAF. “He decided to commit his time and efforts to this when he doesn’t need money or recognition. He does it for pure love of football and Africa,” the senior official said. A president of a North African Federation was quoted as saying the presence of Senghor and Yahya as Vice-Presidents ensured that a truly pan-African view was taken into account. “They have the experience and were inside CAF so (they) know what needs to be changed fast in order to get us on the right track”, said the federation leader. Last week, Motsepe launched his ten-point Action Plan manifesto, called Building African Football to be Best in the World. He said investing in developing and growing football in each African country and building partnerships and sponsorships with the private sector as well as other potential partners formed the basis of his blueprint. – CAJ News Read the article: https://bit.ly/3859hR7 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CAJ News Africa.

Confederation of African Football (CAF) presidential candidates unite behind Motsepe

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Download logoJaylen Brown, Zach LaVine, Donovan Mitchell and Jayson Tatum in Field, Composed Entirely of 2021 NBA (www.NBA.com) All-Stars; MTN DEW® Zone Returns: Two Deep Shots Located 6 Feet Behind 3-Point Line Worth Three Points Each; Competition to Take Place on Sunday, March 7 Before 2021 NBA All-Star Game. Former 3-Point Contest champions Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors lead a field composed entirely of current NBA All-Stars who will participate in the 2021 MTN DEW® 3-Point Contest on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The competition will take place before the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, airing on TNT. The six-player field for the 35th MTN DEW® 3-Point Contest also features 2021 NBA All-Stars Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls and Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz. This marks the first 3-Point Contest in which each participant is a current NBA All-Star. MTN DEW returns as the title partner of the 3-Point Contest as part of PepsiCo and the NBA’s multiyear marketing partnership renewal. In addition, MTN DEW will award $100,000 in newly created MTN DEW Scholarships to two students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities during the 3-Point Contest broadcast. The MTN DEW 3-Point Contest is a two-round, timed shooting competition at NBA All-Star 2021, which will take place on one night. TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage on March 7 will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star Game coverage will begin at 8 p.m. ET, with AT&#038;T Slam Dunk taking place at halftime. NBA All-Star 2021 will reach fans in 215 countries and territories in more than 50 languages. Booker, the 2018 MTN DEW 3-Point Contest champion, will make his fifth appearance in the event. Curry, the 2015 champion, will compete for the seventh time, tying Dale Ellis for the second-most appearances behind Craig Hodges (eight). A seven-time NBA All-Star, Curry has made a league-high 164 3-pointers this season. He holds the NBA single-season record for 3-pointers made (402 in 2015-16) and ranks second in career 3-pointers made (2,659). LaVine and Mitchell are both former AT&#038;T Slam Dunk champions. No player has ever won both the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest and AT&#038;T Slam Dunk in a career. LaVine will compete in the 3-Point Contest for the second year in a row. This marks the event debut for Mitchell. Brown and Tatum are also first-time participants in the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest. For the second consecutive year, the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest will feature the “MTN DEW Zone” – two deep shot locations positioned equidistant between the traditional racks at the top of the 3-point arc and the adjacent “wing” rack. Each of the two ball pedestals in the MTN DEW Zone is located 6 feet behind the 3-point line and holds one special green ball, the “3-Ball.” Shots made with the green ball are worth three points. In addition to the two shots in the MTN DEW Zone, the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest will have five main shooting locations – four racks containing four official NBA game balls (each worth one point) and one multicolored “money” ball (worth two points), as well as one special “all money ball” rack. Every ball on the all money ball rack, which each participant can place at any of the five traditional shooting locations, is worth two points. Each competitor will have 70 seconds (1:10) to shoot as many as the 27 balls as he can, with a maximum possible score of 40 points in a round. The three competitors with the highest scores in the first round will advance to the championship round. The player with the highest score in the championship round will win the MTN DEW 3-Point Contest. Click here (https://on.nba.com/3cbMvsn) for a complete explanation of the rules and a diagram showing the location of the MTN DEW Zone. Below are the participants for the 2021 MTN DEW 3-Point Contest and a list of previous winners. 	 		 			 			2021 MTN DEW® 3-POINT CONTEST PARTICIPANTS 			 		 		 			 			*2020-21 Season* 			 		 		 			 			Player 			 			 			Team 			 			 			Pos. 			 			 			Ht. 			 			 			Wt. 			 			 			3PM 			 			 			3PA 			 			 			3P% 			 		 		 			 			Devin Booker 			 			 			Phoenix Suns 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-5 			 			 			206 			 			 			61 			 			 			166 			 			 			36.7 			 		 		 			 			Jaylen Brown 			 			 			Boston Celtics 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-6 			 			 			223 			 			 			72 			 			 			187 			 			 			38.5 			 		 		 			 			Stephen Curry 			 			 			Golden State Warriors 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-3 			 			 			193 			 			 			164 			 			 			397 			 			 			41.3 			 		 		 			 			Zach LaVine 			 			 			Chicago Bulls 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-5 			 			 			202 			 			 			116 			 			 			268 			 			 			43.3 			 		 		 			 			Donovan Mitchell 			 			 			Utah Jazz 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-1 			 			 			215 			 			 			108 			 			 			284 			 			 			38.0 			 		 		 			 			Jayson Tatum 			 			 			Boston Celtics 			 			 			F 			 			 			6-8 			 			 			210 			 			 			77 			 			 			209 			 			 			36.8 			 		 	 Stats through games of March 1 	 		 			 			MTN DEW® 3-POINT CONTEST WINNERS 			 		 		 			 			1986 – Larry Bird, Boston 			 			 			1998 – Jeff Hornacek, Utah 			 			 			2011 – James Jones, Miami 			 		 		 			 			1987 – Larry Bird, Boston 			 			 			2000 – Jeff Hornacek, Utah 			 			 			2012 – Kevin Love, Minnesota 			 		 		 			 			1988 – Larry Bird, Boston 			 			 			2001 – Ray Allen, Milwaukee 			 			 			2013 – Kyrie Irving, Cleveland 			 		 		 			 			1989 – Dale Ellis, Seattle 			 			 			2002 – Peja Stojakovic, Sacramento 			 			 			2014 – Marco Belinelli, San Antonio 			 		 		 			 			1990 – Craig Hodges, Chicago 			 			 			2003 – Peja Stojakovic, Sacramento 			 			 			2015 – Stephen Curry, Golden State 			 		 		 			 			1991 – Craig Hodges, Chicago 			 			 			2004 – Voshon Lenard, Denver 			 			 			2016 – Klay Thompson, Golden State 			 		 		 			 			1992 – Craig Hodges, Chicago 			 			 			2005 – Quentin Richardson, Phoenix 			 			 			2017 – Eric Gordon, Houston 			 		 		 			 			1993 – Mark Price, Cleveland 			 			 			2006– Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas 			 			 			2018 – Devin Booker, Phoenix 			 		 		 			 			1994 – Mark Price, Cleveland 			 			 			2007 – Jason Kapono, Miami 			 			 			2019 – Joe Harris, Brooklyn 			 		 		 			 			1995 – Glen Rice, Miami 			 			 			2008 – Jason Kapono, Toronto 			 			 			2020 – Buddy Hield, Sacramento 			 		 		 			 			1996 – Tim Legler, Washington 			 			 			2009 – Daequan Cook, Miami 			 			 			 			 		 		 			 			1997 – Steve Kerr, Chicago 			 			 			2010 – Paul Pierce, Boston 			 			 			 			 		 	 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).About MTN DEW: MOUNTAIN DEW® (www.MountainDew.com), a product of PepsiCo North America Beverages, is the No. 1 flavored carbonated soft drink in the U.S. With its one-of-a-kind citrus taste, MOUNTAIN DEW exhilarates and quenches with every sip. In addition to the original MOUNTAIN DEW and DIET MOUNTAIN DEW®, the permanent DEW® product line includes MTN DEW® KICKSTART™, MOUNTAIN DEW CODE RED®, MOUNTAIN DEW VOLTAGE®, MTN DEW® ZERO SUGAR, new MTN DEW MAJOR MELON™ and MTN DEW MAJOR MELON™ ZERO SUGAR. For more information, check out www.MountainDew.com, www.facebook.com/mountaindew or follow on Twitter @mountaindew. About PepsiCo: PepsiCo (www.Pepsico.com) products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $70 billion in net revenue in 2020, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker, Tropicana and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 23 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales. Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Convenient Foods and Beverages by Winning with Purpose. “Winning with Purpose” reflects our ambition to win sustainably in the marketplace and embed purpose into all aspects of our business strategy and brands. For more information, visit www.Pepsico.com.

Past Champions Devin Booker and Stephen Curry Lead Six NBA All-Stars in 2021 MTN Dew® 3-Point Contest

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Download logoCompetition to Take Place on Sunday, March 7 at Halftime of 2021 NBA (www.NBA.com) All-Star Game; Five Past Slam Dunk Champions to Serve as Judges: Dee Brown, Jason Richardson, Josh Smith, Spud Webb and Dominique Wilkins; Final Round: One Dunk for Each Finalist and Winner Determined by “Judges’ Choice” Instead of Individual Score. A new AT&#038;T Slam Dunk champion will be crowned this year as first- time participants Anfernee Simons of the Portland Trail Blazers, Cassius Stanley of the Indiana Pacers and Obi Toppin of the New York Knicks compete for the title on Sunday, March 7 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The 36th AT&#038;T Slam Dunk will take place at halftime of the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, airing on TNT and ESPN Radio. AT&#038;T Slam Dunk is part of NBA All-Star 2021, which will be held on one night. TNT’s NBA All-Star coverage on March 7 will begin at 5 p.m. ET with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, followed by the Taco Bell® Skills Challenge and MTN DEW® 3-Point Contest starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. NBA All- Star Game coverage will begin at 8 p.m. ET. NBA All-Star 2021 will reach fans in 215 countries and territories in more than 50 languages. Simons (pronounced SIGH-mons) is averaging 8.2 points and shooting a career-high 40.7 percent from three-point range in his third NBA season. The 6-3 guard was selected by Portland with the 24th pick in NBA Draft 2018 presented by State Farm. Stanley, a 6-5 rookie guard on a two-way contract, was selected by the Pacers with the 54th pick in NBA Draft 2020 presented by State Farm. He recorded a maximum vertical leap of 44 inches in the 2020 NBA Draft Combine, tied for the third-highest mark since 2000. Toppin, a 6-9 rookie forward, was selected by the Knicks with the eighth pick in NBA Draft 2020 presented by State Farm. As a redshirt sophomore at the University of Dayton last season, Toppin led the nation in dunks and was named the consensus National Player of the Year. Led by Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins, five past AT&#038;T Slam Dunk champions will serve as the judges. Wilkins (1985 and 1990 champion) will be joined by Dee Brown (1991), Jason Richardson (2002 and 2003), Josh Smith (2005) and Spud Webb (1986). Wilkins, Smith and Webb won their Slam Dunk titles while representing the Atlanta Hawks. Richardson won the last Slam Dunk competition in Atlanta, in 2003. AT&#038;T Slam Dunk will be a two-round competition. In the first round, the three competitors will perform two dunks each. The five judges will score each dunk on a scale of 6 to 10, resulting in a maximum score of 50 and a minimum score of 30. The two players with the highest combined score for their two dunks (a maximum of 100 and a minimum of 60) will advance to the final round. In the final round, the two competitors will perform one dunk each. The winner will be determined by “Judges’ Choice” instead of individual score. The judges will choose the winner by raising a card that has the dunker’s name on it. Click here (https://on.nba.com/385B1oS) for a complete explanation of the rules for AT&#038;T Slam Dunk. Below are the participants for the 2021 AT&#038;T Slam Dunk and a list of previous winners. 	 		 			 			2021 AT&#038;T SLAM DUNK PARTICIPANTS 			 		 		 			 			Player 			 			 			Team 			 			 			Pos. 			 			 			Ht. 			 			 			Wt. 			 		 		 			 			Anfernee Simons 			 			 			Portland Trail Blazers 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-3 			 			 			181 			 		 		 			 			Cassius Stanley 			 			 			Indiana Pacers 			 			 			G 			 			 			6-5 			 			 			193 			 		 		 			 			Obi Toppin 			 			 			New York Knicks 			 			 			F 			 			 			6-9 			 			 			212 			 		 	 	 		 			 			AT&#038;T SLAM DUNK WINNERS 			 		 		 			 			1984 – Larry Nance, Phoenix 			1985 – Dominique Wilkins, Atlanta 			1986 – Spud Webb, Atlanta 1987 – Michael Jordan, Chicago 1988 – Michael Jordan, Chicago 			1989 – Kenny Walker, New York 1990 – Dominique Wilkins, Atlanta 1991 – Dee Brown, Boston 			1992 – Cedric Ceballos, Phoenix 1993 – Harold Miner, Miami 1994 – Isaiah Rider, Minnesota 1995 – Harold Miner, Miami 			 			 			1996 – Brent Barry, LA Clippers 			1997 – Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers 			2000 – Vince Carter, Toronto 			2001 – Desmond Mason, Seattle 			2002 – Jason Richardson, Golden State 2003 – Jason Richardson, Golden State 2004 – Fred Jones, Indiana 			2005 – Josh Smith, Atlanta 			2006 – Nate Robinson, New York 2007 – Gerald Green, Boston 2008 – Dwight Howard, Orlando 2009 – Nate Robinson, New York 			 			 			2010 – Nate Robinson, New York 2011 – Blake Griffin, LA Clippers 2012 – Jeremy Evans, Utah 			2013 – Terrence Ross, Toronto 			2014 – East (Paul George, Terrence Ross, John Wall) 			2015 – Zach LaVine, Minnesota 2016 – Zach LaVine, Minnesota 2017 – Glenn Robinson III, Indiana 2018 – Donovan Mitchell, Utah 			2019 – Hamidou Diallo, Oklahoma City 			2020 – Derrick Jones Jr., Miami 			 		 	 AT&#038;T and the NBA: An Innovative Partnership: Since AT&#038;T’s partnership with the NBA began, AT&#038;T has been bringing the power of 5G to various events and activations across the country. In 2020, AT&#038;T deployed its AT&#038;T 5G HoloVision (http://soc.att.com/3kH3sP5) technology during the 2020 NBA Conference Finals and NBA Draft (http://soc.att.com/3sHAFwA), and brought 5G to NBA All-Star for the first time (http://soc.att.com/382OTjS), including at NBA Crossover and via the AT&#038;T 5G Courtside Cam which shared unique, live camera angles directly from the AT&#038;T Slam Dunk Contest as part of State Farm NBA All-Star Saturday Night. AT&#038;T and the NBA were the first to broadcast a professional sports event in 5G (https://bit.ly/3sC7ElY) at the 2019 MGM Resorts NBA Summer League. AT&#038;T also previously worked with Turner and the NBA during the 2019 NBA Tip-Off broadcast to deliver virtual side- by-side access to TNT’s broadcast of through a volumetric 3D experience powered by AT&#038;T 5G (http://soc.att.com/3e5DhjY). AT&#038;T is the Official 5G Wireless Network of the NBA and the WNBA. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).About AT&#038;T Communications: We help family, friends and neighbors connect in meaningful ways every day. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to mobile video streaming, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. AT&#038;T Communications (www.ATT.com) is part of AT&#038;T Inc. (NYSE:T). For more information, please visit us at ATT.com.

Anfernee Simons, Cassius Stanley and Obi Toppin to Take Flight in 2021 AT&T Slam Dunk

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Download logoAfrica’s regional know-how, assets and policy expertise will be more systematically channeled to the Resident Coordinators and United Nations Country Teams (UNCTs) across the continent as they help countries ensure an inclusive and sustainable transition out of the COVID-19 crisis, UN Deputy Secretary-General and Chair of the UN Sustainable Development Group Amina J. Mohammed stressed as she joined the first annual meeting of the new Regional Collaborative Platform on 2 March 2021. “Today marks the start of the next-generation collaboration approach for the regional UN entities to support African countries to respond and recover better from the COVID-19 pandemic and reignite the Decade of Action for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which is aligned with the Africa Union Agenda 2063,” Ms. Mohammed said. The United Nations has been making progress on its sweeping reforms to strengthen its support to countries, leveraging its capacities at all levels. The new Regional Collaborative Platform has responded to the growing need for enhanced UN coordination and regional collaboration in the face of the pandemic and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. It brings together UN regional expertise, capacity and data to provide analytical, policy and operational support to countries. Yesterday’s discussion, attended by regional representatives from the Africa UN development system, focused on high-priority issues for the African continent to recover better from the pandemic and move toward the Sustainable Development Goals. These included accelerating the implementation of the continental free trade agreement; investing in youth and women’s empowerment to help countries reap the benefit of their demographic dividends; advancing home-grown sustainable and scalable technologies and digital solutions; building climate and disaster resilience; and continuing to support the African Union’s “Silencing the Guns” initiative. Across the continent, Resident Coordinators and UNCTs are supporting countries in their access to COVAX vaccines and their socioeconomic response plans. In addition to the pandemic recovery, UN entities will work together to support sustainable development efforts in the Sahel, the Lake Chad Basin and the Horn of Africa, and address the resurgence of Ebola, and climate crises with severe damage caused by deadly droughts, cyclones and locust outbreaks. “We are still in a recovery phase for the continent. We need additional resources. Our low- and middle-income countries, as well as small island states, have lost a lot of their resources. They need more fiscal space. They need more revenues. They need additional liquidity to ensure we build forward better,” said Under-Secretary-General Vera Songwe, Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). Although it was a transitional year, the regional UN entities demonstrated evidence of enhanced system-wide collaboration at the regional level. For example, last year, all of them joined forces to launch the Knowledge Management Hub on COVID-19 and shared a business continuity plan with governments to support their e-governance, e-justice and e-commerce for livelihoods, while the Africa e-education strategy was introduced to Resident Coordinators to provide emergency education to more than 100 million African children out of school. “The African region is at a strategic juncture with COVID-19 recovery programmes and investments that we are making to enhance trade. All our efforts will yield desired results only if Africa’s people – our most important resource – feel productive, if they feel valued, if they feel safe, and if they feel secure,” said Assistant Secretary-General Ahunna Eziakonwa, Director of the Regional Bureau for Africa at the UN Development Programme (UNDP). The new platform will engage with the African Union in April and accelerate its effort to deliver on its promise with an impact-oriented focus on implementations. The Regional Collaborative Platform is chaired by the UN Deputy Secretary-General with two Vice-Chairs: Ms. Songwe and Ms. Eziakonwa. Its joint secretariat is comprised of UNECA, UNDP and the UN Development Coordination Office (DCO).Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

Next-generation Regional Collaborative Platform meeting kicks off for first time with regional UN entities in Africa

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Total cases: 19,111 (+125) Recovered: 17,472 (+150) Active cases: 1,374 In critical condition: 8 Tests: 1,017,029 (+4,578) Test positivity rate: 2.7% Recovery rate: 91.4% Deaths: 265 (+1) | 1.4%Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health, Republic of Rwanda.Media filesDownload logo

Coronavirus – Rwanda: COVID-19 update (2 March 2021)

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World Rugby (www.WorldRugby.org) has made the difficult decision to recommend the postponement of Rugby World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted in New Zealand between 18 September-16 October, until next year. The recommendation will be considered by the Rugby World Cup Board and World Rugby Executive Committee on 8 and 9 March respectively. While appreciating the recommendation is extremely disappointing for teams and fans, it has their interests at heart, and gives the tournament the best opportunity to be all it can be for them, all New Zealanders and the global rugby family. The recommendation is based on the evolution of the uncertain and challenging global COVID-19 landscape. It has become clear in recent discussions with key partners including New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Government and participating unions, that, given the scale of the event and the COVID-19-related uncertainties, it is just not possible to deliver the environment for all teams to be the best that they can be on the sport’s greatest stage. The challenges include uncertainty and the ability for teams to prepare adequately for a Rugby World Cup tournament both before and on arrival in New Zealand, and challenging global travel restrictions. World Rugby can assure teams, New Zealanders and the global rugby family that the recommendation to postpone the tournament will help to ensure that Rugby World Cup 2021 will be all it can be next year for players, fans and the rugby family – one of the great Rugby World Cups. Further updates will be issued following the Rugby World Cup Board and World Rugby Executive Committee meetings next week.Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Rugby.Media Contact: Rugby@APO-opa.comMedia filesDownload logo

World Rugby has made the difficult decision to recommend the postponement of Rugby World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted in New Zealand between 18 September-16 October, until next year

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As part of its celebration around International Women’s Month, Facebook (www.Facebook.com) today announced the launch of ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons From African Women’, a collection of beautifully inspired stories &#038; life advice from 19 women who are breaking boundaries in fields such as media, entertainment, politics, education and business. Available for free in digital and physical formats, the book provides inspirational real-life stories for future generations and young leaders. Each chapter focuses on a personal experience and life lesson around how these women have navigated their path to success, alongside the challenges they have had to overcome along the way. ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons from African Women’ is aimed at encouraging, inspiring and guiding the reader &#8211; no matter the background, age or ambition. ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons from African Women’ follows on from the successful 2020 launch of ‘Inspiring #Changemakers: Lessons from Life and Business’ in South Africa. This 2021 book is further brought to life through a series of beautifully illustrated artwork specially commissioned from four female artists from across the continent &#8211; Massira Keita from Côte d&#39;Ivoire, Lulu Kitololo from Kenya, Karabo Poppy from South Africa, and Awele Emili from Nigeria. With over 5,000 copies printed, the book will be provided for free to a number of Facebook’s local training partners including She Leads Africa, Fate Foundation, DigifyAfrica, Siyafunda, Smart Ecosystems for Women and cCHub. These will be distributed across 15 countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Liberia, Senegal and Kenya &#8211; in schools and to beneficiaries of training(s) offered by Facebook partners. Nunu Ntshingila, Regional Director, Facebook Africa, said: “At Facebook we know that African women are at the helm of shaping the future of our promising continent &#8211; they are changemakers, mothers and CEOs. This book is a celebration of just some of the exceptional African women who in their own right are trail-blazers, motivating and inspiring people and advocating for good across Africa, and the world. We’re excited about their individual stories, inspired by challenges they’ve endured and how they’ve risen above these, and importantly how they’ve turned these into important life lessons to help inspire others.” The women featured in ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons From African Women’, include: 	Elizabeth Akua Ohene – Journalist and Politician [Ghana] 	Alice Nkom &#8211; Lawyer and Human Rights Activist [Cameroon] 	Tecla Chemabwai – Athlete and Educator [Kenya] 	Baratang Miya -Tech entrepreneur and CEO [South Africa] 	Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim &#8211; Global Activist [Chad] 	Dr Judy Dlamini – Entrepreneur, Author and Philanthropist [South Africa] 	Hawa Sally Samai – Founder, CEO and Campaigner [Sierra Leone] 	Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu – Founder and CEO [Ethiopia] 	Lelemba Phiri &#8211; Entrepreneur, Investor, Educator [Zambia] 	Temi Giwa-Tubosun – Founder and CEO [Nigeria] 	Vanessa Hau Mdee – Media personality, Musician and Podcaster [Tanzania] 	Monica Musonda – Lawyer, Entrepreneur and CEO [Zambia] 	Saran Kaba Jones – Founder and CEO [Liberia] 	Kalista Sy – Showrunner and Screenwriter [Senegal] 	Yvonne Okwara – Journalist and News Anchor [Kenya] 	Tara Fela-Durotoye &#8211; Entrepreneur and CEO [Nigeria] 	Noella Coursaris Musunka &#8211; Model and Philanthropist [Democratic Republic of the Congo] 	Samantha ‘MisRed’ Musa – Media personality, Social Influencer and Philanthropist [Zimbabwe] 	Djamila Ferdjani &#8211; Doctor and Entrepreneur [Niger] This March marks the three year anniversary of Facebook’s #SheMeansBusiness programme in Sub-Saharan Africa, an initiative designed to inspire, empower and train female entrepreneurs across the continent to build, grow and start their own businesses. As part of this, Facebook is launching a new training component on business resiliency through financial education in Nigeria, South Africa and Senegal, with the additional modules aimed at improving female business owners’ financial management skills, whilst addressing challenges that women entrepreneurs face, such as access to capital. To download the book visit: https://bit.ly/3q5GLFi. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Facebook.Media Contact: Idea Engineers PR agency for Facebook Africa facebook@ideaengineers.co.za Media filesDownload logo

Facebook Launches ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons From African Women’ – a Book Spotlighting Female Leaders from across Africa

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Taking CAD, GIS and poster printing to a new level of productivity, Canon Europe (www.Canon-europe.com) today updates its successful imagePROGRAF TX Series of large format printers with five new models: the 24-inch TX-2100, 36-inch TX-3100 and 44-inch TX-4100, plus the multifunctional TX-3100 MFP Z36 and TX-4100 MFP Z36. These new high-speed, high-capacity, multipurpose devices deliver unrivalled print quality, enhanced media handling and advanced security with a familiar workflow, ideal for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) businesses, retail stores and in-house print departments. A new level of productivity Whether for vibrant, high-quality posters or multiple copies of high-definition CAD drawings, the new imagePROGRAF TX Series delivers borderless prints at the push of a button, either from a PC or direct from a USB stick. Quick start-up time and rapid processing eliminates delays, and with continuous high-speed printing at up to 3.2 pages per minute and no trimming required, productivity is assured. Designed for absolute ease of use, when the roll of media is placed in the imagePROGRAF TX Series feeder, the printer automatically detects the media type and width, while the intuitive control panel with its 4.3-inch touchscreen gives accurate media information at a glance. For high-volume jobs, a dual roll option supported by ‘hot swap’, high-capacity ink tanks gives up to 350 metres of uninterrupted printing from two rolls of the same media, or if needed, will switch between two rolls of different media types. The optional high-capacity, front-located stacker can hold up to 100 A0 prints and can be easily folded away when not in use to save space. Precision print, vibrant colour Maintaining its reputation for unrivalled print quality, the new imagePROGRAF TX Series combines Canon print heads and five-colour, full pigment LUCIA TD inks to deliver fine lines, pin-point text and vibrant colours even on plain paper – ideal for high-precision CAD drawings and posters. For prints that will be used outside, the inks offer excellent weather resistance and can be used with Canon’s water-resistant media. Scan and print For fast, efficient scanning and printing, the multifunctional imagePROGRAF TX-3100 MFP Z36 and TX-4100 MFP Z36 models incorporate a newly developed, lightweight Z36 scanner that uses SingleSensor™ technology. This innovation saves time and performs an accurate, even scan across the full width, without the need for stitching or calibration. Ben Gossage, B2B Sales and Marketing Director Canon Central and North Africa says “The original imagePROGRAF TX Series has proved to be hugely popular with customers to date. Now, with growing demand for fast and flexible delivery of prints on demand, this newly improved line-up is optimised to customers’ changing needs, with outstanding productivity features that enable faster and more efficient printing of posters and CAD/GIS drawings. We’re confident that the new imagePROGRAF TX Series offers a model to meet the everyday large format print needs of any business.” The new imagePROGRAF TX Series will be available through Canon’s direct sales organisations and channel partners from March 2021. For more information on the imagePROGRAF TX Series, please visit: https://bit.ly/2PuQXdW https://bit.ly/38774F3 https://bit.ly/3rfQj22Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).Media Contact: Canon Central and North Africa Mai Youssef e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com APO Group &#8211; PR Agency Rania ElRafie e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com About Canon Central and North Africa: Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2015 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region &#8211; by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market. Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa. Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better. For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com.Media filesDownload logo

One printer for fast, high-definition CAD and poster production – the new Canon imagePROGRAF TX Series

Content provided by APO Group. CNBC Africa provides content from APO Group as a service to its readers, but does not edit the articles it publishes. CNBC Africa is not responsible for the content provided by APO Group. 
A thrilling display of attacking racing saw Team Qhubeka ASSOS (www.TeamQhubeka.com) draw widespread praise for their overall performance at Le Samyn on Tuesday, with Victor Campenaerts winning the prize for most attacking rider of the day for Africa’s UCI WorldTour team. Even so, there was some disappointment at the prospect of missing out on an even better result as sprinter Carlos Barbero was desperately unlucky, with a flat tyre with just over 5km to go on the high speed run in to the final. After the team played their part in reeling in the day’s early breakaway, they breathed fire into the race through a series of relentless attacks from Campenaerts, the World Hour Record holder, including a final effort within a few hundred metres of the finish. His efforts, through the support of the entire team, together with a late surge from Lukasz Wisniowski and the the support of Dimtri Claeys, saw the team fall agonisingly short of a podium spot but ultimately declare themselves very satisfied with the day&#39;s overall performance. The race was won in a sprint by Tim Merlier (Alpecin-Fenix) with Claeys finishing eighth, Wisniowski 13th and Campenaerts 16th overall. Victor Campenaerts We executed a very offensive race (today); in a race on cobblestones to have three riders in the top 16 is a really strong performance. Of course we want to win but I think it’s a very good result. I was awarded prize for the most attractive rider too, so it was a really good day for the team, and we can be proud of our fight and effort out there. Dimitri Claeys We had a really good day with the whole team, and are happy. We rode really offensively and we were able to deliver a good collective result. That said, I think this shows that in the coming races we can still be, and get, better. We still aim to go even higher, and step by step we’ll do so.Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Team Qhubeka ASSOS.Media Contact: Jean Smyth (Head of Communications) Email: jean@ryder.co.za Mobile: +27 63 4701 1710 or +31 625 739 033 About Team Qhubeka ASSOS: Team Qhubeka ASSOS (TeamQhubeka.com) is a purpose-led, high-performance team, fighting to win on the world&#39;s biggest stage, to inspire hope and create opportunity. Founded in 2007, Team Qhubeka ASSOS (formerly NTT Pro Cycling) became the first-ever African cycling team to gain a UCI WorldTour license, in 2016. We achieved our first major win in 2013 when Gerald Ciolek won Milan-San Remo, one of the five Monuments of cycling. We have competed in six Tour de France’s and notched up 7 stage wins, with Mark Cavendish wearing the coveted Yellow Jersey at the 2016 Tour de France. We are a multicultural, diverse team with bases in South Africa, the Netherlands and Italy. There are 19 nationalities represented across our World Tour and continental feeder team rosters. Our focus on developing African cycling has resulted in more than 55 riders from the African continent be given the opportunity to race on the world stage, since the team&#39;s inception. We race to help people to move forward with bicycles through our relationship with Qhubeka Charity. Through our work with Qhubeka, we have contributed to the distribution of over 30 000 bicycles in communities in South Africa. About Qhubeka: Qhubeka (Qhubeka.org) is a charity that moves people forward with bicycles. People earn bicycles through our programmes, improving their access to schools, clinics and jobs. A bicycle is a tool that helps people to travel faster and further, and to carry more. In the face of extreme and persistent poverty, bicycles can change lives by helping to address socioeconomic challenges at the most basic level – helping people to get where they need to go.  All images attached to the press release can be used with the respective image credit in combination to this release.Media filesDownload logo

Team Qhubeka ASSOS thrill as they ignite Le Samyn

Content provided by APO Group. CNBC Africa provides content from APO Group as a service to its readers, but does not edit the articles it publishes. CNBC Africa is not responsible for the content provided by APO Group. 
Unfortunately, it’s becoming all too normal to fall foul of your bank when transacting to buy cryptocurrencies via fiat using bank transfers or your debit card. Banks accounts may get frozen, transactions delayed and issues may arise with the intent and destination of funds. Club Swan (https://ClubSwan.com/en-za/) is a top-ranking innovative service that has brought a secure and reliable solution to the African crypto community. This firm has played an integral role especially in South Africa who represent the majority of the demand for Bitcoins in the region. The company specializes in buying, selling cryptos and allowing customers to spend Bitcoin as fiat using their debit cards worldwide cutting out the need for a bank in order to buy, sell and spend crypto. With crypto generally used as a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation in Africa, there are growing shifts in demand to use cryptocurrencies as a means for international transactions and business trade saving in international exchange fees. Recognizing these challenges Club Swan offers multiple currency accounts, the ability to exchange into multiple fiat currencies typically 4-8% cheaper than the high street banks, as well as the ability to transfer your cryptocurrency to other external wallets via their platform. As an FCA regulated and responsible organization, the KYC process is concluded on all customers which in most circumstances is executed swiftly, in under 30 minutes giving customers the ability to buy and sell Bitcoin,  Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Tether, BAT, Paxos, USD Coin and EOS using USD, GBP, EUR, CNY, and JPY accounts with over $1 billion transacted using the platform. The crypto concierge service offered by Club Swan allows businesses and busy individual access to concierge professionals 24/7 where all requests, large or small, are handled with care and efficiency. Whether it’s hiring a private jet for business travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, to relocation to a different city or country, the concierge service is there to provide assistance. With the South African budget looming on 24th February, there is a growing focus on diversification of savings and investments into alternative assets like cryptocurrencies to mitigate the risk of potential Rand (ZAR) devaluation. “From September 2020 till January 2021 we’ve seen a 310% increase in transactions for our South African customers,” says Martin Lamming, CCO Club Swan. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Club Swan.Media filesDownload logo

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Coronavirus – Nigeria: COVID-19 update (2 March 2021)

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Team Europe partners with Equity Bank to support Kenyan business and agriculture amid COVID-19

West African health ministers in joint fight against Ebola

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