World Bank Group Appoints New Country Manager For South Sudan

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World Bank Group Appoints New Country Manager For South Sudan

The World Bank Group has appointed Mr. Firas Raad as the new Country Manager for South Sudan. Raad will be leading an expanding country program focused on delivering project financing and analytical services in support of South Sudan’s development priorities.

The World Bank Group’s current portfolio in the country consists of six engagements with a total financing volume of $USD 375 million in commitments.

Under his tenure, the World Bank Group will continue to work closely with the Government of South Sudan, development partners, civil society, the private sector and other stakeholders with the goal of improving development outcomes for the people of South Sudan, particularly in the areas of economic growth, governance, agri-business, human capital development, and resilience.

Mr. Raad, a Jordanian national, has extensive experience in the areas of economic and human development and has worked with the World Bank Group, the United Nations, and the Jordanian government over the past 27 years.

He joined the World Bank in 2002 as a Health Policy Specialist and has since held various technical and management positions in the Middle East and North Africa region and the East Asia and Pacific Region. His most recent management assignment was serving as Country Manager for Malaysia where he led the World Bank Group Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Finance Hub based in Kuala Lumpur.

“I am honored to take on this new role as Country Manager for South Sudan at an important time in the country’s history and development journey. Over the last three years, the World Bank Group has endeavored to support the development gains achieved by the country since the signing of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement,” said Firas Raad, World Bank Country Manager for South Sudan. “Going forward, we aim to support the Government of South Sudan in consolidating these gains and making even greater progress towards improving the lives and livelihoods of the South Sudanese people. Naturally, much of our effort will hinge crucially on the continued preservation of peace and stability in the country.

The World Bank Group has been a long-standing development partner of South Sudan, stretching back to the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005. In the next two years, the World Bank Group will be scaling up its engagements along the three main pillars of work: (i) laying the ground for institution- building;  (ii) supporting basic service delivery; and (iii) building resilience and livelihood opportunities. These engagements will be financed through budgetary resources made available by the International Development Association of the World Bank Group.

Mr. Raad will be based in Juba and succeeds Husam Abudagga who recently completed his two-year term as Country Manager for South Sudan

Hyundai Unveils Thrilling ELANTRA N For North America

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Hyundai Unveils Thrilling ELANTRA N For North America

Hyundai has unveiled its thrilling all-new 2022 ELANTRA N for the North American market in a virtual debut.

With the introduction of ELANTRA N, Hyundai has rounded out its N brand line-up of ‘Everyday Sports Cars.’ ELANTRA N is a high-performance variant of the new Elantra.

It adds strength, dynamic driving capabilities and aggressive design elements to the standard model. Hyundai’s N brand details more than 40 specialized N elements applied to the ELANTRA N everyday sports car, tuned precisely to enhance driving performance.

First High-performance N Sedan: From Street to Circuit
ELANTRA N is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, direct-injected flat-power engine with a 52-mm turbine wheel and a 12.5-mm2 turbine passage with an area increased by 2.5 mm2. These enhancements, along with the optimization of the shape and material of the cylinder block, improve both performance and durability. As a result, the flat-power technology generates maximum output from 5,500 rpm for brisk acceleration.

 

The 2022 ELANTRA N is driven on the Hyundai Proving Grounds in California City, CA on July 13, 2021.

 

The ELANTRA N flat-power engine is available with an N eight-speed wet, dual-clutch transmission (N DCT), delivering maximum output of 276 horsepower from 5,500-6,000 rpm and torque of 289 lb.-ft. from 2,100 to 4,700 rpm. With N Grin Shift (NGS), the boost pressure temporarily increases, briefly increasing output to 286 horsepower. The ELANTRA N is also available with a standard, close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox.

 

The 2022 ELANTRA N is driven on the Hyundai Proving Grounds in California City, CA on July 13, 2021.
The 2022 ELANTRA N is driven on the Hyundai Proving Grounds in California City, CA on July 13, 2021.

 

ELANTRA N’s handling performance is further enhanced by the N Corner Carving Differential (e-LSD), Variable Exhaust Valve System and Launch Control—all of which are specialized, high-performance standard features. For DCT models, N Grin Shift (NGS), N Power Shift (NPS) and N Track Sense Shift (NTS) are standard features that maximize driving engagement.

To further enhance handling character, ELANTRA N provides robust braking performance. The 14.2-inch brake rotors are equipped with high-friction pads to ensure best-in-class braking performance. Furthermore, an additional cooling aperture in the half-cut brake dust covers, combined with braking air guides, provides improved cooling efficiency. Consistent braking force can be maintained even in harsh driving conditions. The ELANTRA N for the U.S. market retains a mechanical-type parking brake.

ELANTRA N now offers features implemented for the first time in an N model. For the first time ever in a Hyundai, ELANTRA N applies an integrated drive axle (IDA), inspired by technology in WRC rally cars. By integrating drive shaft, wheel hub and bearing, a weight reduction of 3.81 lbs. enables a lighter and stronger driveline. This also benefits performance during extreme lateral g-forces.

By integrating the intake duct and air cleaning element in the intake compartment, ELANTRA N’s throttle response is sharpened by reduced pumping losses, while the intake system weight is reduced. The shape of the powertrain mount has been optimized to improve integration of movement between the powertrain and the body while driving, increasing handling responsiveness.

Hyundai has applied, for the first time, a dual-compound insulator to the front suspension. This, together with the dual-compound trailing-arm bushing achieves optimal performance in ride and handling as well as noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), separating front/rear and left/right dynamic forces. ELANTRA N applies four-point strut rings and a rear stiff bar to strengthen body rigidity. Torque-feedback rack-mounted power steering (R-MDPS) provides a consistent steering feel even when the external environment changes, such as temperature. These high-performance technologies developed through N have been applied to general mass-produced vehicles and are expected to lead to overall performance of the product lineup in the future.

ELANTRA N adds a special feature for aural driving engagement. N Sound Equalizer (NSE) is a virtual engine sound that not only simulates sounds from Hyundai Motorsports, such as TCR race cars, but also has an equalizer function that allows adjustment of details for each range (whine, throat, bass) to personal preference. This allows the driver to hear a dynamic engine sound as their mood dictates. In addition, the variable exhaust valve system, which delivers the exhaust overrun ‘pop’ and ‘crackle’ elements, now uses linear control to reduce booming during idling, while maintaining the distinctive N exhaust note. Finally, ELANTRA N is the first N vehicle to use 245-section width Michelin® Pilot Sport 4S tires on 19-inch alloy wheels for increased traction and dynamic cornering performance.

High-performance N-exclusive Infotainment
The ELANTRA N advanced infotainment system is equipped with an N-exclusive graphic interface so that drivers can feel as if they are sitting in a dynamically moving VR game seat while watching a racing game screen. The system employs colorful design graphics, allowing the driver to intuitively enjoy dynamic performance. Information needed for high-performance circuit driving, such as oil, coolant, torque, and turbo meters are displayed in the single-circle digital N mode cluster for driver convenience. Furthermore, to maximize driving pleasure, drivers can customize various driving conditions, such as engine and steering feel.

Dynamic Driving Harmonizes with Sporty Character
Building on the already sporty styling of the Elantra, ELANTRA N adds components that maximize aerodynamics and aggressive appearance. ELANTRA N’s front fascia takes inspiration from the battle-ready appearance of a driver’s race helmet, and the lip spoiler that runs low across the lower fascia conveys a low-slung stance. The N-exclusive red strip at the base of the front fascia continues along ELANTRA N’s side valance, for a racetrack-ready look. The prominent, N-exclusive wing spoiler with rear diffuser helps control airflow for aerodynamic performance and aggressive styling. Further, an inverted-triangle N-exclusive reflector and dual, single-tipped exhaust, reminiscent of motorsports, neatly finish the rear view.

The N-exclusive interior conveys the application of N-branded elements, including the steering wheel, shifter, seats, door scuff panels and metal pedals. The steering wheel with paddle shifters includes the NGS button (DCT only), raising horsepower to 286 for up to 20 seconds. N button driving modes can be customized and matched in various combinations to suit various drivers. N light sport seats with N illumination are 10mm lower compared to the standard Elantra specification for high-performance drivability. N light sport seats reduce seat back thickness by two inches compared to the base model, further highlighting best-in-class rear seat roominess and practicality.

 

The 2022 ELANTRA N interior is photographed in California City, CA, on July 13, 2021.

 

“Hyundai Motor’s high-performance N brand constantly aims to provide customers with a range of exciting choices for increased driving pleasure,” said Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand Management & Motorsport sub-division at Hyundai Motor Company. “ELANTRA N is the purest expression of our mission to date.”

 

ELANTRA N Specifications

Specifications (in.) ELANTRA N
Length 184.1
Width 71.9
Height 55.7
Wheelbase 107.1
Engine Form 2.0L Turbocharged, Direct injected
Displacement
(cc)
 1,998
Maximum Output
276 HP
286 HP (temporary NGS function
Maximum Torque 289 lb.-ft.

 

Specific ELANTRA N Performance Improvements

Category Code Description
Brake AG
Air Guide		 The air guide, originated from motorsports, improves braking performance by allowing air to flow directly towards the brake to cool off the heat generated from braking.
DCH
Dust Cover cooling Holes		 Even the smallest detail has been modified to improve braking performance. The size of dust cover has been minimized and holes have been added to cool the braking disc from the guided airflow.
LBD
Larger Brake Disc		 Increased disc size of 14.2 in. enhances heat endurance capacity and braking performance. With a wider tire, ELANTRA braking performance places at the top of its class.
HBP
High friction Brake Pad		 High friction coefficient material brake pads reduce fade and maximize bite when breaking at high speed. This shortens braking distance, which is the shortest among its competitors.
PF
Pre-Fill		 Pre-fill braking logic increases braking responsiveness by filling the brake hydraulic pressure in advance when sudden braking is expected.
CO
Creep Off		 Drivers can select between ‘Creep On’ and ‘Creep Off’. When set to ‘Creep Off’, no additional braking is required when the car is stationary on the grid which allows faster acceleration.
LB
Left foot Braking		 Left-foot braking allows simultaneous brake and excellent pedal control. It improves vehicle yaw control. It is activated under the condition of 1. sport + or N mode, 2. ESC off and 3. gear knob on manual, which cancels brake override.
P/T FP
Flat Power		 Flat power prolongs power at high RPM ranges, especially in high-speed acceleration. Greater engine response, improved torque and engine power extend maximum power duration, delivering a more powerful driving experience.
NPS
N Power Shift		 As a DCT-exclusive feature, NPS enhances acceleration performance by maximizing engine torque during upshifts. NPS provides a ‘push feel’ during upshift as though shifting the sequential gear of a race car.
NTS
N Track Sense Shift		 Automatically selects optimal gear shift and shift timing when track driving is sensed. This enables drivers to avoid busy gear shifting, like a professional driver.
SPD
Shift Pattern Differentiation		 Shift Pattern differs mode by mode. Among 8 gears, N mode mostly uses 1~6 with shifting at higher RPM, while Normal mode uses all 8 gears. Uphill, downhill, tip-off and cornering specified shift logic prevents unnecessary gear shifting to provide optimal power delivery.
NGS
N Grin Shift		 A DCT-exclusive feature, NGS provides an extra 10 horsepower for 20 seconds, boosting to 286 horsepower by temporarily utilizing turbocharger over-boost and maximizing transmission response. Reduced interval pause time of 40 seconds allows you to push NGS at every lap.
LC
Launch Control		 Launch Control allows driver to enjoy maximum acceleration from standstill with ease by optimizing engine torque and clutch engagement control. Drivers can easily repeat best standstill acceleration.
TO
Turbine Optimization		 Engine performance has been enhanced by increasing the size of turbine wheel from 47mm to 52mm and expanding the scroll area. The durability of the cylinder block has been enhanced by cross drilled treatment to optimize turbine responsiveness.
ETM
Engine TM Mount		 Engine and transmission mount with larger stopper and optimized shape firmly holds on to the powertrain, improving steering responsiveness. Thus, minimizing roll and yaw behavior for optimal performance driving.
REV
Rev Match		 Automatically matches speed of engine and optimizes gear shift. When downshifting, automatic heel-and-toe reduces physical burden of manual shifting and allows faster corner exits.
Chassis /
Body		 TSC
Torque Steer Control		 Torque steer control prevents excessive abnormal rotation of steering wheel caused by disparities in torque between left and right sides of the drive wheel at rapid acceleration. This improves overall driveline alignment.
SSM
Steering Solid Mounting		 R-MDPS system and sub-frame are affixed solidly, improving direct steering feedback. Fast steer and counter-steer are also improved based on this mounting structure.
4BE
4 points underbody Enhancement		 4 points of underbody enhancement strengthen body rigidity and improve ride & handling: 1) Sub-frame front reinforced structure 2) V. Stay 3) Center Tunnel Stay 4) Rear Tunnel Brace.
RSB
Rear Stiff Bar		 H-shape multijointed rear stiff bar increases body rigidity by 29 percent compared to the base model. Not only does this improve ride & handling, but the red color also adds to the overall sporty look.
4SR
4 points Strut Ring		 Originated from racing cars, the strut ring has been reinforced with an additional connection point. 4-point strut ring connects the suspension and body tightly, improving ride & handling precision.
IDA
Integrated Drive Axle		 Inspired by WRC rally cars, the drive shaft, wheel hub and bearing have been developed into one integrated drive axle. This is beneficial in terms of withstanding extreme lateral g-force, weight reduction of 3.74 lbs. and noise reduction.
DCB
Dual Compound Bushing		 2 types of compound bushings are applied for ride comfort and firm handling, respectively in the vertical and horizontal direction. This is one of the key factors that make ELANTRA N a performance car.
TFM
Torque Feedback R-MDPS		 Improves steering consistency and precision in any driving condition through robust torque feedback logic, providing a more precise steering experience when carving corners.
ECS
Electronic Controlled Suspension		 A different range of damping force based on speed, driver input, road condition and driving modes provides better ride and handling performance. This 2nd generation ECS allows the widest range of suspension setting ever, from extreme track situations to a road trip.
ELSD
Electronic Limited Slip Differential		 Actively distributes torque between the inner and outer wheels when cornering. This enhances dynamic performance, allows faster corner exits and minimizes understeer by optimizing wheel slip and weight transfer.
NES
N Electronic Stability Control		 N Electronic Stability Control maximizes thrill and fun in corners by providing a ‘rear end drift’ feeling.
AK
Aluminum Knuckle		 Aluminum knuckle reduces the weight of unsprung mass, providing more agile ride & handling.
GB
G-Bushing
(Lower control arm bushing)		 Lower control arm bushings are strengthened to its limit for sharper and precise handling. The most optimal tire and G-bushing combination is offered by taking advantage of the extra comfort margin of a wider tire.
DA
Duct-style air guard		 For maximum cooling on the radiator surface, airflow is guided by a duct-style air guard. This maximizes speed, improves aerodynamic, fuel-efficiency, and cooling ability in extreme conditions.
Sound RRC
Rear Resonance Control		 Rear Resonance Control provides maximum comfort in the back seat by reducing road booming noise.
UBS
Upshift Bang Sound		 The Upshift Bang Sound is created by controlling fuel flow of the single cylinder and fully opening the variable exhaust valve. This recreates the emotional sound of motorsports.
NSE
N Sound Equalizer		 N Sound Equalizer amplifies dynamic driving sound in harmony with the famous N exhaust sound through interior speakers. Drivers can select between sporty, high performance and TCR mode and even customize three different tones and levels.
LVE
Linear Variable Exhaust Valve System		 The N exhaust sound has been restructured and refined by adding linear variable valve setting from 0 to 100. When you are idling in normal mode, creep booming will be minimized. While on N mode, wide-open valves generate exhaust sound that suits your N mood.
Design /
Aerodynamics		 3BS
3 Bridged Spoiler wing		 Wing-type spoiler improves aerodynamics for maximum speed and faster corner exits.
UBO
Under Body Optimization		 A wider coverage of undercover enhances underbody air flow. This reinforcement in aerodynamics help improve high-speed driving balance.
LW
Low & Wide design		 Semi-gloss black pearl mask, front lip spoiler, rear diffuser and wider tires maximize ELANTRA N’s low and wide stance.
LSP
Lowest Seat Position		 With N light bucket seat and 10mm lowered seating position, a deeper connection between the driver and vehicle is formed. The overall center of gravity is also lowered.
RSR
Rear
Seat Roominess		 Carrying over the excellence of the base model, ELANTRA N boasts the most spacious rear seat roominess among its competitors. The N light sports bucket seat reduces 2 inches of seatback thickness compared to the base model, securing an additional rear seat roominess.
Tire WT
Wider Tire		 The ELANTRA N is the first N model to be offered Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 245/35ZR 19-inch tires. These high-performance tires are offered as standard, providing superior grip in every phase of cornering.
Intake /
 Infotainment		 LDI
Lightweight Direct Intake		 The air intake system has been restructured for better airflow into the engine, reducing the air pressure by 10 percent. This also reduces overall weight by 895g.
NI
New Infotainment system		 Enhances readability and visibility of various driving information.

 

Comprehensive ADAS and Safety
ELANTRA N is equipped with a full array of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Alert (RCCA), and Safe Exit Warning (SEW), among others.

Also available is Bluetooth multi-connection support and an enhanced natural language voice recognition system that incorporates Speech-to-Meaning® and Deep Meaning Understanding™ technologies, adding coherence and convenience to the daily driving experience.

N Brand: ‘Never just drive’
N’s mission is to push the limits of performance to help drivers discover how fun driving can be. With that in mind, Hyundai has revealed the N Brand’s new brand claim, ‘Never just drive.’ This claim fully captures the N mindset and spirit: “Do more than simply drive. Enjoy every second of it.” Since its debut in 2013, the N brand has built a fervent following with its winning combination of everyday sports cars and its rapid rise in rally and customer racing. Together with its Motorsport division, N brand has logged victories at multiple races, including the FIA World Rally Championship, TCR International Series, Pirelli World Challenge, IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race.

Every high-performance N model is designed by passionate experts and engineered at the Hyundai Motor Namyang R&D Center. Throughout development they are tested at the Nürburgring in Germany, one of the world’s most demanding racetracks.

“N brand will always be focused on delivering driving fun – no matter what technology is under the hood,” said Thomas Schemera, executive vice president and head of Customer Experience Division at Hyundai Motor Company. “N brand will always be fueled by the emotions drivers experience on the road or racetrack.”

Blue Link® Connected Car System
ELANTRA N drivers receive many Blue Link® Connected Car service enhancements. As with most Hyundai models, Blue Link is complimentary for three years and includes features such as Remote Start with Climate Control, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Stolen Vehicle Recovery and Destination Search by Voice and others. Blue Link features can be accessed via interior controls or through the MyHyundai.com web portal, the MyHyundai with Blue Link smartphone app, the Amazon® Alexa Blue Link skill and the Blue Link Google Assistant app. Some features can be controlled via Android Wear™ and Apple Watch™ smartwatch apps. More details on specific Blue Link–equipped vehicles available at www.hyundaibluelink.com.

Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance and America’s Best Warranty®
Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance is the latest addition to the Hyundai Assurance program, which promises to create a better experience for shoppers and owners of Hyundai vehicles. Hyundai Assurance is made up of Owner Assurance, now including complimentary maintenance, and Shopper Assurance, which together offer customers a variety of ways to simplify the buying process and improve the owning and service experience. Details on these promises include:

  • America’s Best Warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, 7-year anti-perforation warranty
  • Complimentary Maintenance: 3 years/36,000 miles of normal oil changes and tire rotations

AfCFTA Youth Creative Competition

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AfCFTA Youth Creative Competition

A creative youth competition on African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for young people in Africa as well as those in the Diaspora with African citizenship has been launched.

The competition dubbed the ‘Umoja Africa Campaign – Youth Contributing to the Implementation of the AfCFTA’ targets young people between the age of 18 and 35 years.

This is a collaborative initiative between the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDA), the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, Afreximbank, the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the UN Development Programme (UNDP).

AfCFTA Youth Creative Competition-Brand Spur Nigeria
AfCFTA Youth Creative Competition-Brand Spur Nigeria

Those interested can submit essays, infographics and/ or animation on the topic; ‘The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)’ from July 31 to Deadline September 31. Winners announced November.

The content for the competition should display ingenuity in communicating the AfCFTA to young people, by breaking down elements of the AfCFTA into simple and easy to understand content for their peers.

The aim is to encourage young people in Africa and those in the diaspora to contribute to the development of Africa’s young leaders and enhance youth participation in the implementation and achievement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The competition will encourage them to participate in the implementation of the AfCFTA

The winning essay writer, infographics and animation creators will each receive a cash prize of $1,000.  The first runners up will receive $500, second runners up $300. The essay winner will also receive a paid internship with one of the partner institutions, while the others will receive design contracts with other partners among other prizes.

The creative competition is expected to break information asymmetry among youth on the AfCFTA and promote a bottom-up approach to the policy formulation and implementation by harnessing innovative youth-driven solutions that will contribute to active youth engagement in the popularisation of the AfCFTA. This will then generate conversations and discourse on the youth involvement in trade in Africa and their role in the implementation of AfCFTA.

Creating awareness among the youth in Africa on the AfCFTA will encourage them to be more innovative and creative, empowering them to become leaders not only at home, but across borders.

An international trade center report shows that Africa is the youngest continent in the world with a median age of 19.8 years. 65% of the population in Africa is also under the age of 25. It is projected that a third of the youth will live in Africa by 2050. Yet majority of the young people are unemployed, lack access to financial resources, face barriers to start and scale up their small businesses.

The AfCFTA creates an opportunity for more jobs for the youth through increase entrepreneurship, e-commerce which underscores the importance of the digital economy.

For more details on how to enter the competition, click here.

Beyond 2021 Kicks Off SEA’s Exclusive Training Program In Gender Lens Investing

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Beyond 2021 Kicks Off SEA’s Exclusive Training Program In Gender Lens Investing

Sponsored by Australian Aid and Frontiers Lab Asia, “Beyond 2021: Investing across borders and innovation” kicks off its joint training program co-led by internationally recognized investor networks, incubators, and accelerators across Canada, Indonesia, the Philippines, Pakistan, and Vietnam.

The first-of-its-kind program will last from 8th to 9th September, aiming to provide angel investors across South and Southeast Asia with a broad spectrum of gender lens investing (GLI) opportunities as an alternative path to diversify and leverage cross-border capital allocation.

Canada-based incubator-cum-accelerator Spring Activator, Indonesia’s largest angel investors network ANGIN, Philippine early-stage impact incubator Villgro, Pakistan’s first female-led venture capital fund Invest2lnnovate, and Vietnam- based ecosystem builder KisStartup, will host the program activities in the Southeast Asia region.

Gender lens investing helps alleviate gender inequalities and extend access to capital for women entrepreneurs in a male-dominated market. By financing women-led businesses, investors can actually facilitate positive social impact while earning great returns.

According to Pitchbook, only 9% of venture capitalists are female, while the proportion of investment flow into women-led business is lower at 2.3% in America and 2.2% in Europe. However, Project Sage 3.0 of Wharton Social Impact Initiative reported that firms investing with a gender lens raised approximately US$4.8 billion in 2019, more than double the amount raised in 2018.

Beyond 2021 Kicks Off SEA’s Exclusive Training Program In Gender Lens Investing-Brand Spur Nigeria
Beyond 2021 Kicks Off SEA’s Exclusive Training Program In Gender Lens Investing-Brand Spur Nigeria

Even though GLI investors still encounter challenges, the opportunities of scaling up and growth have motivated them to take up the new investment approaches, especially in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. The three countries accounted for 80% of gender-lens investment (GLI) deal volume in the region, 85% of which came from angel investors, according to a report co-published by Investing In Women and Value For Women in March.

Capitalizing on these understandings, the Beyond 2021 program consists of 4 stages, including the Beyond 2021 Summit kick-off event, calling applications, main training program, and demo-day. Its objectives are to fuel local and cross-border co-investment with investors around the world and to connect investors with women-led ventures in South and Southeast Asia to increase capital access and financial equality. At the same time, a global community of like-minded investors can gather to create impact through early-stage investment.

“This program is powerful for investors because it actually provides multiple benefits. Participants will be seeing a couple of fantastic investment opportunities of highly-representative potential companies that are not only cross-border but also women-led ventures. Investors could learn the tips and tricks and the how-to process that enable them to benefit from investment in women-led ventures that actually show financial returns and also do good for their communities,” said Keith Ippel, Program Lead of Beyond 2021, co-founder and CEO of Spring Activator.

The 3-day program includes training, networking, and coaching for angel investors in South and Southeast Asia in three main topics: Cross Border Co-Investing, Sourcing & Screening, and Due Diligence. Participants will get round to qualified deal flow through case studies and working models. The training sessions are also combined with extensive networking (group and 1-on-1) opportunities. This is where guest speakers and subject matter experts from local and cross-border investor communities will be giving their inspiring speeches to the audience. Last but not least, the format of in-country 1-on-1 coaching will be applied to maximise the engagement during group sessions and even when participants leave the series.

“When investors leave our series, they will have opportunities to connect and meet amazing women-led ventures in Southeast Asia who are investment-ready, and they will also have a global community of like-minded investors who are wanting to make an impact, through local and cross-border collaboration,” said Juan Tolosa, Project Manager of Beyond 2021, director of Strategy & Operations at Spring Activator.

UNCTAD Launches Open Call For Photos To Shape Trade, Development Narrative

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UNCTAD Launches Open Call For Photos To Shape Trade, Development Narrative

A bold UN photo exhibition calls on the world’s photographers to share their images of trade’s positive impact and how it can help promote sustainable development and tackle global inequalities and vulnerability.

NewsUNCTAD and Barbados are looking for image submissions that visually tell the trade and development story. © David Cain, Unsplash

A strong visual narrative on how trade works for development is at the centre of a new open call for photographs issued by UNCTAD and Barbados in anticipation of the UN trade body’s quadrennial conference. 

The call for submissions comes as UNCTAD prepares to host the world’s first trade conference amid the coronavirus pandemic.

UNCTAD’s 15th quadrennial conference, UNCTAD15, will take place online from 3 to 7 October, hosted by Barbados.

“The conference theme, ‘From inequality and vulnerability to prosperity for all’, calls on us to fix fractures across the world to ensure prosperity for all. Trade is one of the levers in this journey and can help foster development and bring more prosperity,” said UNCTAD Acting Secretary-General Isabelle Durant.

“Help us show and tell this powerful story through strong visuals.”

Showcase trade’s positive impact

UNCTAD is asking all photographers everywhere who document trade and development issues globally to share images that showcase trade’s positive impact.

The top 20 images selected will be virtually exhibited at the conference, and if possible, physically in both Geneva and Barbados.

Photographers may submit up to three images that respond to the conference theme. To help guide submissions, UNCTAD has identified the following categories as areas of interest:

  1. The human side of trade
  2. The plight and potential of small island developing states and least developed countries
  3. Making trade work for all
  4. The blue economy and livelihoods
  5. Making trade part of the climate solution
  6. Women in trade and development
  7. The power and influence of the creative economy
  8. Rebuilding a more equal world
  9. The digital economy and development
  10. Sustainable growth and the circular economy

Visual whizzes

The photo exhibition’s curator and sub-committee have been carefully selected. It will be curated by Lekgetho Makola, the chief executive of the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria in South Africa and a globally recognized curator.

The selection committee is made up of the curator and: Joumana El Zein Khoury, executive director, World Press Photo Foundation; a leading Barbadian photographer, Ronnie Carrington; and Andrew Revkin, journalist and director of the Initiative on Communication and Sustainability at The Earth Institute at Columbia University; and Dona Bertarelli, UNCTAD special adviser for the blue economy.

The committee also includes Pamela Stathakis, Fair Picture’s responsible network manager. Fair Picture is building a network of global South photographers. And also two UNCTAD staff, Jan Hoffman, UNCTAD’s head of trade logistics and Henrique Pacini, UNCTAD economist, both avid photographers.

The selection committee is looking for compelling, dynamic and impactful images that tell the story of the power of trade to change lives and drive development towards the sustainable development goals.

The deadline for submission is 3 September. Get more information on the exhibition.

7th Annual Constituency Meeting: Adewale Temitope Empowers 200 Widows, Petty Traders

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7th Annual Constituency Meeting: Adewale Temitope Empowers 200 Widows, Petty Traders

Lagos State House of Assembly member representing Ifako-Ijaiye constituency 01, Honourable Adewale Temitope on Thursday, August 19th empowered 200 widows and petty traders at the 7th Annual Constituency Meeting.

The annual Lagos State House of Assembly Stakeholders meeting was held across the 40 constituencies in Lagos State.

The event is an avenue for stakeholders such as market leaders, community leaders, traditional and business communities to meet with their representative in the House of Assembly, to give feedback and propose memoranda for the needs of the people which is aimed to be included in the next budget of the state.

7th Annual Constituency Meeting: Adewale Temitope Empowers 200 Widows, Petty Traders-Brand Spur Nigeria
7th Annual Constituency Meeting: Adewale Temitope Empowers 200 Widows, Petty Traders-Brand Spur Nigeria

The theme; “Increasing Wave Of Drug Abuse, A Threat To Nation Building,”comes as a result of the flagrant abuse of drugs amongst our young population and the need to provide a lasting solution that would transform into building a virile nation of healthy and sane society.

Hon Usman Hamzat, the Executive Chairman of Ifako Ijaiye Local Government declared the event opened by encouraging the attendees to be bold enough to talk about the subject matter and also provide sustainable solution to curbing the monster in our locality.

The chief host of the event, Hon Temitope Adewale in his speech expressed his worries over the damage that the abuse of drugs is causing among our youths. Stating that, if the menace is not curbed, we may not have sane leaders in the nearest future as drug abuse leads to untimely death and destroys others by inhibiting them from achieving their life assignment.

7th Annual Constituency Meeting: Adewale Temitope Empowers 200 Widows, Petty Traders

He charged the audience to act as watchdogs in ensuring that we speak out when we see something.

The representative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mrs Jumoke Olaiya was also in attendance to speak with the audience on the effect of drug abuse and ways to curb the spread of it.

The event also features a documentary on drug abuse and the rehabilitation process of an addict.

7th Annual Constituency Meeting: Adewale Temitope Empowers 200 Widows, Petty Traders-Brand Spur Nigeria
7th Annual Constituency Meeting: Adewale Temitope Empowers 200 Widows, Petty Traders-Brand Spur Nigeria

Speaking further at the event, the Oba-elect of Iju Ogundimu, Prince Ogundumu advised all the participants to position themselves as agents in combating drug abuse in their various communities.

Other speakers at the event lent their voices to eradicating the abuse of drugs in our community. In unison, they all summit that, to have a prosperous and strong nation, efforts must be put in place to fight drug abuse, especially among our youths and teenagers.

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of cash to 100 widows in Ifako Ijaiye and another 100 petty traders who were sourced from outside the political group in the constituency.

The beneficiaries were filled with joy and they expressed their gratitude to Hon Adewale for his kind gesture and unrelenting effort in ensuring and delivering dividends of democracy to the people of his constituency.

The event witnessed a huge turnout from the schools in the constituency, uniform organizations and youth bodies, Corps members, NYCN, YNN, NACOMYO, the Police, DSS, NDLEA, Immigration, LNSC, NSCDC, LASCOTA, Ifako Ijaiye NULGE, Market men and women, and other stakeholders.

The dignitaries present were the Chairman of Ifako Ijaiye Local government Prince Usman Akanbi Hamzat and his Vice Mrs. Oluwatoyin Akerele Awoniyi, the former Chairman of the Council Apostle Oloruntoba Oke, the SA to the Governor on Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Engr Adekunle Olayinka, Representative of the MHR, Mr. Lukman Adeleye, Iyaloja General of Ifako Ijaiye, Chief Mrs. Doyin Coker, the Oba Elect of Iju Ogundimu Prince Ogundimu, the former House of Assembly member Hon Dayo Saka Fafunmi, The CAN president Ifako ijaiye chapter, Rev Olubolade, Co-Chair of NIREC Alhaji Oyedeji, Leader of Ifako Ijaiye Legislative Hon Victor Onifade and all the newly sworn-in Councillors.

Also present were Pastor Ayo Jeje, former SLG Ifako Ijaiye Local Government, The CDC chairman Pastor Samuel Opajobi and all the CDC executives, APC party Chairman in Ifako Ijaiye Dcn Banjo Omole, Lagos State Treasurer of NURTW Alhaji Azeez Istijaba, Engr Jacob Dada, Education Secretary Ifako Ijaiye Mr. Olanrewaju Jongbo, former Sole Administrator Ifako Ijaiye Com. Rotimi Adeleye, former Vice Chairman Ifako ijaiye local government, Hon Kayode Aremo, Representative of Tutor General/Permanent Secretary District 1, HoD Education, Ifako Ijaiye, Alhaja Ogungbo-Alimi, Council of Baales, and other leaders and elders in the local government.

It is hoped that the message of the event shall go around the community and everyone becoming an agent to campaign against drug abuse.

PHOTO: Heineken, Amstel Shine At EXMAN Modern Trade Awards

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PHOTO: Heineken, Amstel Shine At EXMAN Modern Trade Awards

At the just-concluded Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria (EXMAN) Awards, Emporium Communications Limited, an agency of Nigerian Breweries Plc achieved remarkable feats by winning awards in various categories at the biennial event which was held recently in Lagos, Nigeria.

The agency won Silver for ‘Best Shopper Activation’ with the flawless and exciting execution of the Heineken Champions League under the Nigerian Breweries beer brand and Bronze for ‘Best Merchandising Solution’ with Amstel Malta Valentine Experience.

PHOTO: Heineken, Amstel Shine At EXMAN Modern Trade Awards-Brand Spur Nigeria
PHOTO: Heineken, Amstel Shine At EXMAN Modern Trade Awards-Brand Spur Nigeria
PHOTO: Heineken, Amstel Shine At EXMAN Modern Trade Awards-Brand Spur Nigeria
PHOTO: Heineken, Amstel Shine At EXMAN Modern Trade Awards-Brand Spur Nigeria
PHOTO: Heineken, Amstel Shine At EXMAN Modern Trade Awards-Brand Spur Nigeria
PHOTO: Heineken, Amstel Shine At EXMAN Modern Trade Awards-Brand Spur Nigeria

Rite Foods Sponsors King’s Cup Golf Tournament

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Rite Foods Sponsors King’s Cup Golf Tournament

Rite Foods Limited, makers of Nigeria’s favorite Bigi drinks, Rite sausages, and leading energy drink brand, Fearless, has announced its sponsorship of the second edition of the King’s Cup Golf Tournament, scheduled for October 10, 2021, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Rite Foods Limited is the official beverage sponsor of the King’s Cup Golf Tournament, Abeokuta.

The company restated its commitment to sports development and connection with consumers through the golf tournament at a press conference organized by Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML) in Abeokuta this week.

Boluwatife Adedugbe, Assistant Brand Manager, Beverage and Bakery, Rite Foods Limited, stated that the company’s operations are centered around consumer satisfaction, and sports create a unifying platform for consumers to connect with their various brands.

Rite Foods Sponsors King's Cup Golf Tournament-Brand Spur Nigeria

Bukola Olopade, MD/CEO, Nilayo Sports Management Limited; Boluwatife Adedugbe, Assistant Brand Manager, Beverage and Bakery, Rite Foods Limited; Wale Adeogun, Chairman, Local Organizing Committee of the King’s Cup Golf Tournament and Kola Adeneye, Captain, Abeokuta Golf Club, during the press conference to announce the King’s Cup Golf Tournament, sponsored by Rite Foods Limited in Abeokuta on Tuesday-Brand Spur Nigeria

“As a company, we ensure we throw our weight and support for such sporting platforms like the King’s Cup Golf Tournament because it helps us connect and get closer to our consumers. The golf tournament creates a unifying platform to help us unite consumers with our brands and the people of Abeokuta, hence, the reason for sponsoring this golf tournament,” she added.

Mr. Bukola Olopade, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, organizers of the King’s Cup Golf Tournament, Abeokuta, expressed his sincere appreciation to Rite Foods Limited for being a sponsor of the golf tournament and called on other organizations to emulate the leading brand that refreshes consumers all over the country.

Wale Adeogun, Chairman, Local Organizing Committee of the King’s Cup Golf Tournament, Abeokuta welcomed all stakeholders to the press conference and applauded the effort of Rite Foods Limited for throwing its weight behind the competition. “We must applaud Rite Foods Limited for their giant strides in supporting sporting events of this nature that seek to unite the people at the grassroot level. We appreciate you for believing in this course that would empower our people and communities,” he said.

Rite Foods Limited has been a great supporter of people-oriented platforms where it significantly supports causes that add value to people and use existing platforms to innovate and create a uniting point for its consumers across the country.

Four teams will compete at the 2nd edition of the King’s cup golf tournament. The four teams represent the four kingdoms in Egbaland. They are Team Alake, Team Gbagura, Team Owu and Team Oke-Ona, all battling for the prize. 

Rite Foods Limited has assured all golfers and athletes participating in the competition of adequate refreshment with the provision of water points at the golf course to help revitalize the participants during the competition. 

Fwd: Wema Bank Reaffirms Commitment To Women, Girl-Child Empowerment

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Fwd: Wema Bank Reaffirms Commitment To Women, Girl-Child Empowerment

Nigeria’s leading innovative bank, Wema Bank Plc, recently partnered with SheCan Nigeria to reaffirm its commitment to improving the lots of women and the girl-child by helping them attain financial stability, independence and set goals through prudent management of resources.

 The Bank gave the commitment on Friday at the SheCan Nigeria 3.0 hybrid conference themed ‘SheCanDoMore’ held at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos and virtually. Mrs Abimbola Agbejule, Head, Corporate Sustainability & Responsibility, Wema Bank, enlightened women on the basic rules of finance and reiterated the importance of achieving financial independence.

 Agbejule said women need to always have a budget, keep records of spending, invest wisely, pay themselves monthly, create an emergency fund, and practice delayed gratification.    “Take ownership of your personal finance, set smart financial goals, learn new skills regularly, be intentional about your spending, avoid cultural limitations and keep positive financial role models”, she advised.

 Abimbola further encouraged women to take care of their health, have a retirement plan, and teach their children about financial literacy from an early age. She highlighted some benefits of the bank’s SARA by Wema community for women including the gender-based loan offerings and the health scheme in achieving all these.

She hailed the SheCan conference for bringing together successful women and coaches from different fields to ensure they fully equipped women with the knowledge and skills to take on the world.

 “Partnering with SheCan Nigeria is our way of showing unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering women with the right skills, financial knowledge, grants, and networking avenues to achieve their goals,” Agbejule added.  The creator of ALAT, Nigeria’s first digital bank, has a positive track record in empowering women and promoting gender inclusion.

Founded by Ezinne Ezeani in 2018, SheCan Nigeria is a movement for women to realize their potentials and develop their capabilities in achieving success through collaboration and empowerment.

 It also seeks to empower adolescent girls and women through strategic training, education support, mentoring, counselling, vocational skill acquisition, and community empowerment initiatives while grooming them to become change agents in their communities and industries.

The hybrid conference had key experts speak on their life experiences, career growth, job transitioning, and tackling challenges in business. It also availed participants of scholarships, networking avenues, and grant opportunities.

 Speakers at the event were the Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Cecilia Dada; broadcast journalist, Sandra Ezekwesili; CEO, Ikeja Electric Plc, Folake Soetan; creative photographer, Kelechi Amadi -Obi and the Founder, Pinnacle Health Radio, Dr Maymunah Kadiri.

Others were life coach, Lanre Olushola; the first female Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration Company, Elohor Aiboni; Head Corporate Sustainability & Responsibility, ALAT by Wema, Abimbola Abgejule, and Rev. Funke Felix Adejumo.

Wema Bank also supported the conference with mentorship services, free books, and other gifts for participants.

Air Peace Inaugurates Flight Operations To Cameroon

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Air Peace Inaugurates Flight Operations To Cameroon

The Consul-General of Nigeria in Duoala, Cameroon, Efe Alexandra Clark- Omeriu, says the operations of Air Peace into Cameroon will attract more economic development for both countries.

Clark- Omeriu said this at the ceremony for Air Peace’s inaugural flight to Cameroon on Thursday amidst fanfare.

Brand Spur Nigeria learnt that the inaugural flight with registration number P47528, departed the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos at 3.45 p.m, touched down at about 6.54 p.m and was greeted with a water cannon in Duoala.

The Consul-General said that the airline’s operations into Cameroon would fast-track bigger trade investments for both countries.

She added that this would also boost tourism, greater opportunities, and employment.

According to her, the inaugural flight is a beautiful thing that has ever happened to both countries.

“This is also a win-win situation for both countries because Nigeria and Cameroon are brothers.

“The number of Nigerians that reside here in Duoala alone are over three million and majority of them are traders.

Clark- Omeriu said that the flight would also reduce the pains of flying through long routes to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to connect Nigeria.

“We have our own Air Peace that flies straight and directs from Nigeria to Cameroon to ease the stress of going through roads and water,” she said.

Earlier, Mr Adeyemi Ayodeji, the Ground Operations Manager, Air Peace said the airline was committed to excellence and that the management had brought excellent service to Cameroonians.

Adeyemi said that the airline had recorded tremendous feats in just seven years.

According to him, the airline now operates 19 domestic routes, six regional routes and two international destinations (the United Arab Emirates and South Africa) with a varied fleet of 28 aircraft, including three ultramodern Embraer 195-E2 airplanes.

“I feel excited that today, Air Peace, West Africa’s largest carrier, is making its entry into Cameroon from Lagos, Nigeria.

“We are delighted this launch is happening as we believe both countries will benefit enormously from it in the areas of employment creation, promotion of tourism, facilitation of a seamless movement of people and other forms of economic value.

“Air Peace is famed for its no-city-left-behind initiative, which is driving our route expansion.

“The extension of our wings to Douala is resultant from our vision to create affordable and safe air travel for Africans, with our signature hospitality, connecting various cities across Africa, especially the West Coast, thereby fostering socio-economic integration,” Adeyemi said.

He said that plans were in top gear for other international routes, such as Houston-USA, Mumbai-India, Guangzhou-China, and London.

“We are constantly reviewing our route network to reflect the needs of the flying public.

“Finally, we thank and pledge to work with all the stakeholders including the Cameroon Civil Aviation Authority, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the airport administrators and, of course, the governments of both countries to ensure the new route is maximized,” Adeyemi said.

Bathlome Okwujaku, President, Nigeria Community in Cameroon, commended Air Peace for bringing its operations to Cameroon.

He said that the flights would attract more investment in the country and boost Nigerian investors trade.

Okwujaku said that airlines would ease the cost of traveling into the country and also reduce the high risk associated with traveling through roads and sea.

“Before now, businessmen in Cameroon were faced with the challenge of traveling but today Air Peace has made it easier to travel without going through Addis Ababa.

“This will bring more economic development for both countries and also enhance business opportunities.

“This is what we have been hoping for and now that Air Peace has come to Cameroon, we are going to ensure that all Nigerians here fly Air Peace,” he said.

He said it was great the airline had come to bridge the gap between both countries at this crucial time in terms of connectivity.

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