TechPression

Tag: Ghana

  • British Airways launches Inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Accra

    British Airways launches Inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Accra

    British Airways has celebrated the inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Accra, marking the airline’s commitment to expanding its routes to West Africa. The first flight received a warm West African welcome at Kotoka International Airport, Accra, setting the stage for an exciting new connection between the two cities.

    A West African Welcome

    The first British Airways flight from London Gatwick to Accra arrived at Kotoka International Airport on Sunday at 18.26 local time. Passengers and crew members were treated to a traditional West African welcome as they disembarked from the aircraft. The welcome included dancers, drummers, and a VIP delegation, featuring the British High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson.

    Crew members added to the festive atmosphere, debuting their new uniform, designed by the renowned British-Ghanaian master tailor, Ozwald Boateng OBE.

    Read also: Kenya Airways incurs losses due to foreign exchange, borrowing

    Enhanced Travel Options

    British Airways is now operating three weekly flights from Accra to London Gatwick, offering travellers more options for their journey. Flights from Accra to Gatwick depart at 21.20 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, with arrival in Gatwick at 04.00. The airline plans to add a fourth weekly service to the route timetable starting in April next year.

    Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Director of Network and Alliances, highlighted the airline’s commitment to providing increased capacity between Accra and London. In his words, “With 11 direct flights, across two London gateways, we’re pleased to offer our Ghanaian customers a greater choice of products and prices. Overall, we’re doubling the number of seats between Accra and London, with 55 per cent more capacity next summer versus 2019. We are always looking at routes and regions where there is potential for growth, and Accra is one of those routes, and Africa is one of those regions.”

    State-of-the-Art Aircraft

    British Airways operates daily flights from London Heathrow to Accra, served by the airline’s A350 fleet. The A350 is British Airways’ newest and more fuel-efficient aircraft type, featuring the latest generation business class seat, Club Suite, offering passengers enhanced comfort and a premium experience.

    The addition of the Gatwick to Accra route also brings added cargo capacity between the two cities. This expansion provides new opportunities for Ghanaian exporters to access the market more quickly and efficiently through IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group, British Airways’ parent company.

    Afrobeats Onboard

    To celebrate the increased connectivity between Africa and London, British Airways is introducing Afrobeats to its in-flight entertainment system. Passengers can enjoy an exclusive playlist curated by global DJ sensation, Cuppy, offering an exciting selection of tracks to set the mood and create a memorable travel experience.

    British Airways is a global full-service airline, serving more than 65 countries. Passengers can access one of the world’s most extensive flight networks, with a focus on sustainability through the “BA Better World” program. The airline is dedicated to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 as part of its commitment to a more sustainable future.

    The new flight from London Gatwick to Accra enhances travel options for passengers, while bringing a taste of West African culture and entertainment to travellers embarking on this exciting journey between the UK and Ghana. British Airways remains committed to expanding its routes and providing a premium travel experience for its customers worldwide.

  • KAIPTC launches e-learning awareness campaign

    KAIPTC launches e-learning awareness campaign

    The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has initiated an e-learning awareness campaign designed to transform teaching and learning through innovative technology.

    Supported by GIZ through the ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture and Operations Project (EPSAO) and the Norwegian government, the campaign receives funding from the German Government with co-funding by the European Union.

    Read also: BBincubator secures 3 million Dollars for first bilingual e-learning platform

    Revolutionising Learning with Innovative Technology

    The e-Learning Awareness Campaign adopts the theme: “The Future of KAIPTC Learning! Developing Capacities through Innovative Learning Technologies.” Over the last decade, online education and virtual learning have seen substantial growth and expansion, marking a transition from traditional education to the era of eLearning and self-directed learning enabled by information and communication technology.

    Since the launch of KAIPTC’s first eLearning course in 2020, the e-learning platform has attracted over 3,000 participant enrollments across various available e-Courses. Major General Richard Addo Gyane, the Commandant of KAIPTC, highlighted that e-learning offers dynamic and practical methods of delivering training. This transition contributes to achieving strategic objectives, ensuring financial sustainability, and the continuity of the Centre’s post-graduate academic programs and other knowledge generation initiatives in peace and security.

    Major General Gyane emphasised that today’s learners seek relevant, mobile, self-paced, and personalised content. This need is met by online learning modes that allow students to study at their convenience. In an age where technology permeates every aspect of life, learning has undergone a revolution.

    Technology integration into education and professional development has ushered in an era of unparalleled opportunities and possibilities. From free access to knowledge to fostering personalised learning experiences, technology has ignited a digital renaissance in learning and development.

    The Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Transformation

    The Commandant acknowledged the profound shift in the education and training landscape triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated an accelerated adoption of digital technology in the academic and policy realms. This transformation prompted educational institutions like KAIPTC to pivot towards online teaching and training, making the most of technological resources at their disposal.

    Mr. Dirk Assmann, Country Director, GIZ, underlined the evolving relationship and cooperation with KAIPTC in alignment with the Center’s vision and the ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture. He noted that Germany’s and GIZ’s support for digitising the Centre dated back to the introduction of the Learning Management System (LMS) in 2014.

    The growing demand for innovative virtual training approaches in the peace and security sector, along with KAIPTC’s desire to diversify its course portfolio, led the German cooperation to enhance its support for the Center’s eLearning development.

    Experts introduce e-learning to boost agricultural productivity

    The Role of Quality E-Learning

    During a panel discussion, Professor Eric Appau Asante, the Director of e-learning at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), emphasised the importance of quality e-learning approaches in achieving educational outcomes while enhancing the overall learning experience. Mr. Moyomola Bolarin, Chief Instructional Designer at the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC), highlighted the significance of investing in high-speed and reliable internet access as a critical tool for effective e-learning. He stressed the need for integrating tools and features to foster interactivity and engagement to enhance e-learning experiences at the Centre.

    KAIPTC’s E-Learning Awareness Campaign reflects a broader movement towards leveraging innovative technology to provide accessible and effective educational opportunities, fostering knowledge dissemination and skill development in the field of peace and security.

  • Ghana launches agric program to achieve food security

    Ghana launches agric program to achieve food security

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has announced the launch of the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to achieving enhanced food security and transforming its agricultural landscape through modern practices and technology.

    This marks a pivotal shift from subsidy policies to an input credit system, heralding a comprehensive approach that encompasses all participants in the agricultural value chain.

    The PFJ program, as articulated by President Akufo-Addo, places a strong emphasis on commercial agriculture, with far-reaching implications for all stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including producers, processors, distributors, and marketers. This holistic approach aims to invigorate economic activities within the sector, generate employment, bolster industrialization, increase exports, raise incomes, drive rural development, and stimulate overall economic growth.

    Read also: MGI supports AfricaBP in advancing genomics for biodiversity, agriculture

    Transforming Agricultural Value Chains

    President Akufo-Addo emphasised that the second phase of PFJ adopts a holistic view, focusing on strengthening linkages along eleven selected agricultural commodity value chains. These value chains are broadly categorised into grains, roots and tubers, vegetables, and poultry. This strategic approach underscores the commitment to enhance the entire agricultural ecosystem.

    The new phase of PFJ incorporates a transformative input credit system, offering farmers access to vital inputs such as seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, and other support services aimed at improving productivity and yield. Additionally, it includes the provision of storage infrastructure and logistic hubs to enhance storage and distribution, effectively mitigating post-harvest losses. This transition from direct input subsidies to smart agricultural financial support in the form of comprehensive input credit is a significant change in the strategy.

    Building Food Security and Competitive Advantage

    President Akufo-Addo’s vision for the program extends to food security and establishing a robust comparative advantage in the production of diverse cash crops, food crops, and poultry products. The ambitious goal is to achieve these objectives by the end of the five-year implementation period.

    Furthermore, Ghana is poised to leverage the opportunities presented by the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). This landmark trade agreement offers a unique platform for expanding market access, fostering trade relationships, and promoting economic growth within the African continent. President Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of Ghana’s competitive participation in the AfCFTA.

    A Five-Year Master Plan

    The second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs program was officially launched at the University for Development Studies in Tamale on August 28, 2023. This five-year master plan represents a pivotal step toward transforming agriculture in Ghana, with a focus on modernization through the development of selected commodity value chains and active private sector engagement.

    While the announcement of Phase II has generated optimism and enthusiasm, there is a collective call for prudent resource allocation and effective utilisation. The success of this program is contingent on responsible and transparent management of the resources, ensuring that they reach local communities and empower them to adapt to climate change while participating in sustainable agricultural practices.

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    Collaborative Efforts and Long-Term Sustainability

    Ghana has been presented with a significant opportunity to enhance its resilience against climate change impacts and contribute meaningfully to global efforts in combating environmental challenges. Collaboration between government agencies, private sectors, and non-governmental organisations is vital in implementing comprehensive and sustainable climate solutions that address immediate concerns and foster long-term environmental sustainability.

    As Ghana embarks on the second phase of the PFJ program, there is an enduring hope that this transformative initiative will set the nation on a path to achieving its agricultural goals while bolstering food security and economic prosperity. President Akufo-Addo’s vision for comprehensive agricultural reform holds the potential to elevate Ghana’s status in the global agricultural landscape. The commitment to leverage the AfCFTA presents a unique opportunity for Ghana to strengthen its position in the regional and international markets.

    The effective deployment of the resources allocated to the PFJ program will play a pivotal role in realising these ambitious goals, and stakeholders are encouraged to work collectively to ensure the success of this transformative agricultural initiative.

  • Ghana secures funds for climate initiatives at IMF/WBG

    Ghana secures funds for climate initiatives at IMF/WBG

    Ghana has successfully secured vital financial support for its climate adaptation and mitigation efforts during the 2023 International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group (WBG) Annual Meetings.

    Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta revealed this encouraging development to the Ghana News Agency.

    At the forefront of this support is the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC), which has pledged funding to strengthen Ghana’s implementation of various climate change initiatives. These projects are designed to promote sustainable growth, create a habitable planet, and generate employment opportunities.

    Read also: GSMA MWC Kigali 2023 shapes the future of connectivity in Africa

    A Positive Impact on Africa

    Finance Minister Ofori-Atta expressed his optimism regarding the broader implications for Africa. “We now have a significant presence at the V20 table, and this will have positive effects on the entire African continent. It allows us to design and understand the direction of financing, especially in carbon credit financing,” he shared with the news agency.

    He stressed the positive outcomes of discussions with the World Bank and IFC, anticipating substantial resources and innovative financing mechanisms for climate mitigation and adaptation. “In addition to the stability provided by an IMF program, we need to focus on growth,” he stated, highlighting the emphasis on private investment and system strengthening.

    Urgency of Climate Action

    Finance Minister Ofori-Atta underlined the urgency of addressing climate-related issues, particularly in crucial sectors like electric vehicles and solar energy. “This aligns with the type of resources needed to make growth more effective and sustainable,” he added.

    Ghana, as the headquarters of the Vulnerable 20 Group (V20), is well-positioned to lead and leverage new ideas and global technology to accelerate the nation’s climate change agenda. Ofori-Atta confirmed that economic growth in Ghana would prioritise addressing climate change challenges, with a commitment to translating stability into sustainable employment opportunities for its citizens.

    50 climate innovators meet in Ghana for YALI learning pogramme

    Optimism and Cautious Enthusiasm

    Speaking with Forbes Africa, Ghanaian social entrepreneur Prince Fiadzigbe expressed optimism and cautious enthusiasm about this development.

    Fiadzigbe emphasised the critical importance of utilising the funds effectively to address the pressing challenges posed by the climate crisis. He underscored the need for strategic and transparent allocation of resources to ensure that the intended goals are achieved.

    Fiadzigbe commended the international community’s commitment to supporting climate initiatives in developing nations and called for collaboration between government agencies, private sectors, and non-governmental organisations to implement comprehensive and sustainable climate solutions.

    He urged the Ghanaian leadership to prioritise projects that not only address immediate climate concerns but also foster long-term environmental sustainability. Fiadzigbe emphasised the need to invest in initiatives that not only mitigate the current effects of climate change but also lay the foundation for a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.

    As Ghana advances its climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, Fiadzigbe remains hopeful that the secured financing will mark a turning point in the nation’s environmental endeavours. He stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration between stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the climate crisis.

    Fiadzigbe also highlighted the significance of ensuring that these funds reach local communities, empowering them to adapt to climate change and engage in sustainable practices.

    “While securing financing is a crucial milestone, it’s equally important to ensure that these resources reach the grassroots level, empowering communities to adapt to climate change and participate in sustainable practices,” he noted.

    Ghana’s ability to secure this financial support represents a significant step forward in its commitment to addressing climate change and creating a sustainable and resilient future for its citizens. The effective utilisation of these resources will play a pivotal role in achieving these ambitious goals.

  • TECNO launches ‘Future Star Initiative’ scholarship in Ghana

    TECNO launches ‘Future Star Initiative’ scholarship in Ghana

    Technology giant TECNO proudly introduced the “TECNO Future Star Initiative” on October 18, 2023, at the ISSER Conference Hall in Ghana.

    This groundbreaking scholarship program, in collaboration with the esteemed University of Ghana, College of Humanities, aims to identify and support outstanding undergraduate students across Africa who are pioneering technological advancements, offering GHS 100,000 worth of scholarships.

    Read also: TECNO Kenya opens two stores in Nairobi

    Fostering Collaboration and Diversity

    The partnership with the University of Ghana, College of Humanities, strengthens the program’s academic credibility and ensures its accessibility to a wide range of students.

    To ignite innovation and advocate for the potential of technology, TECNO also unveiled the renovation of a Student Experience Hub at the New College of Humanities Office. This dedicated space will be equipped with TECNO’s flagship MegabookT1 laptops and various smart devices from the TECNO AIOT ecosystem, providing students with an opportunity to explore, learn, and engage with cutting-edge technology, fostering creativity and innovation.

    Under the banner of “Empower the Pioneer,” the TECNO Future Star Initiative underscores TECNO’s steadfast dedication to nurturing Africa’s youth’s potential and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.

    A Commitment to Education and STEM

    TECNO firmly believes in the transformative power of education and has a resolute objective: to inspire and support young college students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. TECNO acknowledges that Africa’s young talent is the driving force behind the continent’s technological progress, and it is TECNO’s responsibility to empower them to achieve their dreams and unlock their full potential.

    Mr. Ernest Sonkor, National Channel Manager at TECNO, expressed his thoughts on the launch of this historic initiative, stating, “At TECNO, we recognize that Africa’s youth are the pioneers of tomorrow. We want to encourage students majoring in STEM subjects to push their boundaries, reach for excellence, and never stop striving for greatness. Through the TECNO Future Star Initiative, we aim to be a catalyst for change, a source of inspiration, and a driving force for the technological transformation of Africa.”

    Bridging the Gap between Education and Innovation

    Professor Daniel Frimpong Ofori, the Provost of the University of Ghana, College of Humanities, commended TECNO for this pioneering collaboration. He praised the initiative as a testament to TECNO’s commitment to education and innovation, recognizing that this partnership would significantly contribute to education within the College of Humanities, fostering academic growth, and nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders.

    The Provost expressed gratitude to TECNO for its dedication to empowering students and enhancing the educational landscape in Africa. He noted that the partnership would undeniably help bridge the gap between academic excellence and real-world technological advancements.

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    Igniting Hope for the Future

    The “TECNO Future Star Initiative” has ignited hope for students with aspirations of making a profound impact in the fields of science and technology. It embodies the spirit of “STOP AT NOTHING,” symbolizing TECNO’s commitment to inspiring young pioneers to overcome challenges, break barriers, and realize their dreams. TECNO envisions a future where Africa’s innovative and determined youth lead the charge in technological advancements, and the “TECNO Future Star Initiative” marks a significant stride toward that vision.

    The University of Ghana, College of Humanities, pledged unwavering support for the initiative, recognizing it as a vital step in strengthening the institution’s educational foundation and promoting innovation among STEM students. With great enthusiasm, the Provost looked forward to the positive impact this partnership would have on education, technology, and, most importantly, the aspirations of countless young minds.

  • Mastercard, CENFRI, ATRN to boost Ghana’s tourism via tech

    Mastercard, CENFRI, ATRN to boost Ghana’s tourism via tech

    In a concerted effort to propel Ghana’s tourism sector to new heights, the Mastercard Foundation, in collaboration with CENFRI and the African Tourism Research Network (ATRN), has embarked on a mission that marries data and digitalization with the country’s rich tourist offerings.

    The drive for this project is to augment the tourism sector in Ghana, and it’s set to convene in-depth workshops and training sessions, aiming to equip industry players with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle the unique challenges facing the Ghanaian tourism sector.

    Read also: ADC, DFC to establish $300m Data Hub in Accra, Ghana

    CENFRI Dives into Ghana’s Tourism Sector

    Following a One Day Stakeholders’ in Tourism and Hospitality Data and Digitalization Economy workshop held on August 11, 2023, a follow-up workshop is scheduled to take place. The event, led by CENFRI and CDC Consult, will focus on two crucial areas. The first area will offer insights into the state of the Ghanaian tourism sector, shedding light on the critical obstacles preventing its growth and the vast opportunities waiting to be harnessed.

    One of the central discussions will revolve around the current use of data and digital technology within the sector, exploring the obstacles that hinder greater adoption of these technologies. Simultaneously, this segment will highlight the numerous advantages that can be unlocked by enhanced data and digital technology utilisation. This includes increased revenue generation, cost-saving in operations, refined customer segmentation and analysis, and overall enhancements in tourism services and products.

    Recommendations for Sector Advancement

    The second area will delve into actionable recommendations for both public and private stakeholders in the tourism sector, charting a path towards expanding the market. These recommendations will be concrete and contextually grounded, accompanied by practical examples of their implications, their relevance, and the methods for their effective implementation.

    The initiative unfolds in two distinct phases. The first phase, scheduled for October 20, 2023, will be an in-depth workshop held at the Fiesta Royale Hotel. This day-long event will gather 75 participants representing academia, private enterprises, and public institutions, providing a comprehensive forum for knowledge sharing.

    The second phase encompasses three days, from October 23 to 25, hosted at MEST in East Legon. This segment will concentrate on a hands-on training session led by CENFRI. The training will focus on essential principles of tourism marketing and harnessing data for informed decision-making.

    The objectives of this training session are twofold. Firstly, to equip key tourism sector stakeholders with the necessary tools to enhance their businesses and to empower them to share their newfound knowledge and experiences. Secondly, to provide practical guidance, templates, and key materials that can be adopted and tailored for local training sessions. These local training sessions will serve as a cascading mechanism to share the lessons and benefits from the main training event and foster industry-wide growth.

    Mastercard’s partnership with Delivery Hero drives E-commerce growth 

    Mastercard, CENFRI and ATN’s Drive Towards a Prosperous Tourism Sector

    In an era where data and digital technology are critical in shaping the future of industries, it is also revolutionising tourism in Africa, offering travellers more efficient and immersive experiences. Mobile apps, GPS, and virtual reality enable tourists to explore remote regions and access real-time information about attractions. Digital platforms facilitate bookings, providing economic opportunities for local businesses, while online reviews and social media empower visitors to share their journeys, enticing more people to discover Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife.

    This joint initiative by the Mastercard Foundation, CENFRI, and ATRN is a significant step in advancing Ghana’s tourism sector. It not only enriches the industry by providing cutting-edge tools and solutions but also positions Ghana as a prominent destination, ready to provide a more fulfilling and tailored experience for tourists. This initiative represents a commitment to innovation, development, and the future prosperity of Ghana’s tourism sector.

  • 50 climate innovators meet in Ghana for YALI learning pogramme

    50 climate innovators meet in Ghana for YALI learning pogramme

    50 climate tech innovators from 19 African countries have gathered in Accra for a three-week capacity-building programme, in an effort to harness the potential of young African innovators in tackling the global climate crisis.

    The programme, organised by the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Regional Leaders Centre, West Africa, in collaboration with the United States Embassy in Ghana, aims to equip these young innovators with the skills and knowledge necessary to address climate challenges in their respective countries.

    This initiative, which forms the 45th cohort of YALI, focuses on building capacity in areas such as business enterprise, civic leadership, and public policy, with a specific emphasis on technological solutions for climate impacts on the environment, energy, agriculture, health, and the vulnerabilities faced by local communities.

    Read also: African Development Bank (AfDB), Korea to advance climate-resilient technologies 

    Addressing the Climate Crisis in Africa

    Addressing the opening session at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), United States Ambassador Virginia E. Palmer highlighted the significance of this program, given that 17 of the world’s most vulnerable climate countries are in Africa. She emphasised the importance of African communities actively participating in finding solutions to the global climate crisis and encouraged these young innovators to seize this opportunity to become leaders in climate action in their communities.

    Ambassador Palmer recognized the urgency of addressing climate change, stating, “We need sustainable solutions to the climate crisis that rely on innovation and create new industries, new jobs, and new opportunities.” While acknowledging the challenges posed by climate change to ecosystems and economies, she also expressed optimism that the global community has the tools, knowledge, and collective will to mitigate climate change and build a sustainable future.

    Dr. Esi E. Sey, the Project Director of YALI Regional Leaders Centre, underscored the role of young people in combating climate change and saving the planet. She described the program as a bold step towards leveraging the technological potential of young Africans for climate action and emphasised the need for all stakeholders in the climate space to work together to implement innovative policies and interventions that would accelerate climate action and reduce vulnerabilities in Africa.

    Government Commitment to Climate Action

    In a speech delivered on behalf of the government, Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu, the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), emphasised the government’s commitment to taking sustainable actions to address the climate crisis. Dr. Kokofu described the YALI capacity-building programme as progressive because it would equip the young innovators with cutting-edge skills needed for the deployment of innovative climate change interventions.

    Dr. Kokofu also highlighted various initiatives in Ghana aimed at addressing climate challenges, including the Ghana Energy Development and Access Programme (GEDAP), Sustainable Land and Water Management projects, Skills Development Fund (SDF), and the Human Resource Development Disseminating Solar PV and master course in renewable energy. These initiatives aim to encourage the youth to take advantage of programs that expand innovative technologies across the country.

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    African Vulnerability Amid Climate Concerns

    Warnings about the impending dangers of climate change have intensified globally. The United Nations and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have released reports indicating that global warming is accelerating, with severe consequences for our planet, from more frequent and severe natural disasters to rising sea levels.

    Africa, as one of the most vulnerable continents to climate change, is experiencing the consequences of global warming acutely. The region faces increasing droughts, erratic rainfall patterns, and a growing threat to food security. These challenges are pushing African countries to prioritise climate adaptation strategies to safeguard their future in the face of climate change.

    As these young innovators gather in Ghana to build their capacity for climate action, they represent the next generation of leaders working to address the global climate crisis. Their learning and collaboration during this program are expected to contribute to innovative climate solutions, creating a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa and the world.

  • ADC, DFC to establish $300m Data Hub in Accra, Ghana

    ADC, DFC to establish $300m Data Hub in Accra, Ghana

    The Africa Data Centres (ADC) and the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) have joined forces to establish a Data Hub in Accra, Ghana, aimed at fostering digitalization and economic growth on the continent.

    Empowering Digital Innovation

    The Accra Data Hub is poised to become a magnet for data-driven enterprises seeking to enter or expand their footprint in the burgeoning economies of Africa. Scott Nathan, CEO of the DFC, announced that $50 million, 15% of the total $300 million commitment from DFC for such hubs in Africa, will be allocated to the facility in Ghana.

    Nathan highlighted the vital role that safe, secure, and open information technology networks play in creating the foundation for vibrant and innovative economies. These networks are an essential part of the infrastructure that fosters the growth of a dynamic private sector, ultimately driving prosperity.

    The Data Hub’s design focuses on adhering to social and environmental standards, ensuring financial sustainability, and offering a supportive environment for businesses, all while generating employment opportunities.

    Read also: Zambia tech minister announces readiness to be Africa’s next major tech hub

    The Data Deluge and the Power Challenge

    Finnhai Munzara, Chief Financial Officer of ADC, representing the Centre, emphasized the sheer scale of digital data generated daily: 500 million tweets, 294 billion emails, 4 million gigabytes of Facebook data, 65 billion WhatsApp messages, and 720,000 hours of new content on YouTube.

    Africa’s current data centre capacity is around 200 megawatts (MW), but the continent requires up to 1,000 MW and 700 facilities to meet growing demand.

    Fostering a Digitally Connected Future

    Having already supported ADC’s infrastructure development efforts in Kenya and South Africa, the DFC is now extending its partnership to accelerate digital transformation in Ghana. Ghana’s increasing prominence as a regional digital hub, with a significant share of West Africa’s internet traffic, makes it an ideal location for this project.

    ADC’s plans include delivering up to 30MW of IT capacity in multiple phases within the Ghana Trade Fair site. This site was selected due to its unique position offering secure hyperscale Information Technology infrastructure within the city limits, close to key connectivity infrastructure.

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    The Transformative Power of Digitalization

    Madam Virginia Palmer, the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, emphasized the transformative power of technological advancement and digitalization. These elements are the lifeblood of innovation and progress, fueling economic growth, entrepreneurship, and the collective ability to tackle global challenges.

    She underscored the impact of digitalization on improving access to education, healthcare, and government services. The Digital Transformation with Africa initiative, launched by President Joe Biden during the 2022 Africa Leaders’ Summit, seeks to expand digital access and literacy across the continent. This initiative aims to invest over $350 million and facilitate more than $450 million in financing for Africa, aligning with the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy and the U.S. Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa.

    Madam Palmer explained how USAID’s support in streamlining and digitizing customs processes and business development services is bolstering revenue collection, reducing losses, and driving investment in high-value agricultural goods.

    United for Digital Transformation

    The U.S. government, in collaboration with Ghana, is dedicated to fostering digital transformation. Together, they aim to build a brighter, more connected, and prosperous future for all.

  • MEST Africa extends deadline for startup competition

    MEST Africa extends deadline for startup competition

    MEST Africa has announced that the deadline for applications for the MEST Africa Challenge has been extended so that more people from all over the continent can participate.

    Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa have early-stage tech startups that are asked to enter the competition to show off their innovative businesses. Candidates can still apply, and they will be accepted until October 16, 2023.

    Read also: MEST Africa opens applications for startup pitch competition

    More information

    Startups benefit from the MEST Africa Challenge. The winner will receive a USD 50,000 stock investment to accelerate business growth. The winner and other excellent participants will join MEST Africa’s global network to build relationships, get guidance, and invest. This technology helps startups expand and gain global recognition.

    “It’s inspiring to see how excited and interested people from all over Africa are in becoming entrepreneurs and applying for jobs.” Thus, the MEST Africa Challenge application deadline has been extended. Every new, inventive organization has an equal chance to join this world-changing adventure. Portfolio Advisor and MEST Africa Challenge Lead Ashwin Ravichandran remarked, “We can’t wait to find the next game-changing startup that will change the African tech landscape.”

    Senegal’s innovative B2B e-commerce firm, Kwely, won the MEST Africa Challenge 2022. This prestigious competition has launched top African firms throughout the years, from Tanzania’s Kilimo Fresh and Ghana’s OZE to South Africa’s Snode Technologies. Kenyan Waya Waya and Nigerian Accounteer were pioneers. The competition highlights Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit.

    MEST Africa and the Mastercard Foundation have chosen 12 Ghanaian SMEs to participate in the Venture Acceleration Program.

    Criteria for Eligibility for MAC 2023

     Regular monthly income: $5,000 or more

     Funds raised: less than $1M total

    Years of age: less than three years 

     Traction: at least six months of steady income

     Founding team: at least two people from the founding team 

     Registered in Delaware (This is preferred)

     Proven success in MAC markets (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Senegal)

    Apply now at https://bit.ly/MAC2023_APO for the MEST Africa Challenge Startup Pitch Competition.

  • Genser Energy boosts technical education in Ghana, donates gas turbine 

    Genser Energy boosts technical education in Ghana, donates gas turbine 

    Genser Energy, a prominent energy company in Ghana, has demonstrated its commitment to supporting technical education in the country by donating a 5.2-megawatt gas turbine package to the Takoradi Technical University in the Western Region. 

    This generous contribution is aimed at enriching hands-on learning and research opportunities for both students and faculty members at the institution.

    Read also: CSIR-CRI’s Pest Management Technology revolutionises rice production in Ghana

    Empowering Future Engineers and Innovators

    The gas turbine package comprises a range of essential components, including gas turbines ancillary, generator, reduction gearbox, air inlet filter system/duct/ventilator, fuel conditioning system, lube oil cooler system, and a Hurst boiler. These components will provide students with invaluable insights into the processes of on-site power generation, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

    Daniel Ayi, the Vice-President of Operations at Genser Energy Ghana Ltd, emphasized the significance of this donation in building the technical capacity of students. He described the gas turbine package as a powerful tool for hands-on learning, one that would equip students with practical skills to tackle real-world challenges. Ayi highlighted the role of experiential learning in fostering a holistic educational environment and aligning with Genser Energy’s commitment to nurturing technical knowledge and talent.

    He further stated that Genser’s donation is a representation of their determination to empower the next generation of engineers and innovators in Ghana, recognizing the critical role that technical education plays in driving progress.

    Rev Prof John Frank Eshun, the Vice-Chancellor of the Takoradi Technical University (TTU), expressed profound gratitude to Genser for their invaluable support. He stressed the importance of equipping the youth with the necessary tools, knowledge, and attitude to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital age. Prof Eshun noted that this task requires collective effort, particularly from industry stakeholders, to bridge the gap between the classroom and the world of work.

    He highlighted how the gas turbine package would enhance the quality of education and research at TTU, empowering the Faculty of Engineering to provide hands-on training and practical experiences to students. Prof Eshun expressed confidence that students would harness this equipment to advance innovation and knowledge.

    The timing of this donation is particularly critical, as TTU recently received accreditation to launch a new Masters program in power production systems. Prof Eshun emphasized that the university would maximize the potential of the gas turbine machines to leverage technology for Ghana’s development.

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    A Commitment to Capacity Building

    Speaking to the media after the event, Daniella Akowuah, the Supply Chain Manager at Genser Energy, highlighted the company’s dedication to building the capacity of Ghanaian youth. She emphasized the company’s culture of providing opportunities for young individuals in the industry to acquire hands-on skills. Akowuah expressed confidence that this donation would significantly boost technical education in Ghana.

    Students of TTU expressed their gratitude to Genser Energy for their support, recognizing that the equipment would enhance teaching and learning, particularly as the university focuses on competence-based training.

    Ebenezer Mensah, a second-year student studying Bachelor of Technology in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at TTU, described the donation as a game-changer that would broaden their technical knowledge, making them more competitive in the job market.

    Genser Energy, with over 80% of its staff being Ghanaian, has consistently strived to provide variouopportunities for locals to work in the energy sector, delivering energy solutions to Ghana’s industrial and mining sectors, as well as other parts of the African continent. This year, the company completed a 110km natural gas pipeline construction in Ghana, demonstrating its commitment to empowering local talent and contributing to the nation’s energy landscape.