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Mercy Ships (www.MercyShips.Africa<\/a>) inaugurated a modern Dental Care Training Center at Gamal Abdel Nasser University in Conakry, Guinea, aimed at enhancing healthcare education in West Africa. This initiative supports sustainable training for future dentists and strengthens partnerships to improve dental care in underserved regions.<\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n","pinned_expiry":"3","press_type":"","source_name":"Mercy Ships","source_slug":"mercy-ships","source_logo":"a3f61105f72c188","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/guineas-sole-public-dental-school-unveils-expanded-training-facility-to-revolutionize-dental-care-across-west-africa-?lang=en","videos":[{"id":"122616","created":"2024-10-05 08:15:01","updated":null,"created_by":"16748","ordering_count":"66189","media_press_id":"319483","media_file_id":null,"media_type":"v","media_video_id":null,"media_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Rp6K10Fxu-0?si=9nC2kG0VOp_z9tpc","media_video_type":"e","no_views":null,"no_shares":null,"no_download":null,"media_audio_id":null,"media_audio":null,"media_audio_type":null,"media_id":"122616","file_id":null,"folder_id":null,"type":null,"name":null,"filename":null,"path":null,"extension":null,"mimetype":null,"description":null,"alt_attribute":null,"download_count":null,"media_description":"Guinea's Sole Public Dental School Unveils Expanded Training Facility to Revolutionize Dental Care Across West Africa","media_lang":"en","media_description_default":"Guinea's Sole Public Dental School Unveils Expanded Training Facility to Revolutionize Dental Care Across West Africa","folder_name":null,"folder_slug":null}],"videos_count":1,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":1,"expired":true},{"id":"316083","publish_date":"2024-09-05 12:52:45","press_id":"316083","press_headline":"Online Press Conference for Unstoppable Africa 2024 by the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI)","press_sub_heading":null,"press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"22","press_slug":"online-press-conference-for-unstoppable-africa-2024-by-the-global-africa-business-initiative-gabi","press_body":null,"pinned_expiry":"1","press_type":"","source_name":"Global Africa Business Initiative","source_slug":"global-africa-business-initiative","source_logo":"9dce429ef1a147c","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/online-press-conference-for-unstoppable-africa-2024-by-the-global-africa-business-initiative-gabi?lang=en","videos":[{"id":"120482","created":"2024-09-05 13:31:05","updated":null,"created_by":"16748","ordering_count":"65186","media_press_id":"316083","media_file_id":null,"media_type":"v","media_video_id":null,"media_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/0Nfx1xmH5GI?si=XBjng7jAgkuvUm0G&info=VTdRO1cxBDwAe1AhAjlVMVA1UWpSJVFwUycBPFAhByQADVZ3CzYNaFM1Xy1RPg18U2lRYgY+VToFcgg7BGFcPAM3CntWZVY4Ui1SN1MyXHRVZ1EyVzkENAAzUGgCMlU3UCdRa1J0UTlTawFnUHEHNQA8VmcLAA1xUzlfYlFgDS1TaFEgBj1VMQVpCDMEc1w8AzMKZFZhVixSMFI+UypcZFVjUSFXMgQ1ADpQYAIwVTpQNFFnUiVROFMu","media_video_type":"e","no_views":null,"no_shares":null,"no_download":null,"media_audio_id":null,"media_audio":null,"media_audio_type":null,"media_id":"120482","file_id":null,"folder_id":null,"type":null,"name":null,"filename":null,"path":null,"extension":null,"mimetype":null,"description":null,"alt_attribute":null,"download_count":null,"media_description":"GABI Unstoppable Africa Press Briefing Session","media_lang":"en","media_description_default":"GABI Unstoppable Africa Press Briefing Session","folder_name":null,"folder_slug":null}],"videos_count":1,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":1,"expired":true}],"posts":[{"id":"321063","publish_date":"2024-10-19 12:33:38","press_id":"321063","press_headline":"As part of the B.R.I.D.G.E Dialogue Series and with the participation of 85 representatives from private sector companies, export councils, and business associations, the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation presents the financial and investment opportunities available from British funding institutions for private sector companies","press_sub_heading":"H.E. Minister Al-Mashat also stressed the importance of partnerships between international institutions and the private sector in bridging development gaps","press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"as-part-of-the-bridge-dialogue-series-and-with-the-participation-of-85-representatives-from-private-sector-companies-export-councils-and-business-associations-the-ministry-of-planning-economic-development-and-international-cooperation-presents-the-financial-and-investment-opportunities-available-from-british-funding-institutions-for-private-sector-companies","press_body":" In the second session of the dialogue series organized by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation under the title "Business Roundtable for Innovation, Development & Government Engagement," (BRIDGE) the Ministry hosted representatives from the UK’s British International Investment (BII) agency, UK Export Finance, the Egyptian-British Business Association, and the Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce. The meeting was attended by around 85 representatives from private sector companies, export councils, and business associations. The event aimed to introduce private sector companies to opportunities to enhance trade and investment with the United Kingdom, as well as to present key financial mechanisms and initiatives from the participating institutions. The meeting also discussed initiatives related to promoting the green economy, in collaboration with the British Embassy.<\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n During the event, the Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation explained that the purpose of the BRIDGE series is to enhance the private sector's contribution to economic development, showcase investment opportunities in priority sectors in Egypt, and promote integration between the government’s investment plans and the programs implemented by development partners. This is achieved by encouraging public-private partnerships, strengthening blended finance and developmental finance opportunities, providing grants to the private sector, and exploring opportunities in investment guarantees and corporate social responsibility.<\/p>\n\n H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat emphasized that the current Egyptian government strategy focuses on investment, empowering the private sector, and building a competitive economy capable of attracting investments. This also includes focusing on governance and improving the efficiency of investment spending, as part of the state’s efforts to open space for the private sector as a key driver of development. H.E. highlighted that the state aims to increase private sector participation in the economy by creating an investment-friendly environment and providing sufficient information about investment opportunities to enable the private sector to achieve its goals. This requires ongoing dialogue between the government and the private sector to identify available opportunities.<\/p>\n\n H.E. Minister Al-Mashat also stressed the importance of partnerships between international institutions and the private sector in bridging development gaps.<\/p>\n\n Mr. Tamer Taha, Advisor to the Minister for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Head of the Private Sector Engagement Unit at the Ministry, presented the “Hub for Advisory, Finance and Investment for Enterprises”. The platform was launched to close the information gap and enhance the private sector’s ability to benefit from international development partners. The platform includes nearly 85 services, both financial and consultative, provided by 40 development partners and is updated regularly. It targets large, medium, small, and emerging private sector companies.<\/p>\n\n Ms. Sherine Shahdy, Regional Director of the British International Investment (BII) agency, explained that the institution has been investing for nearly 75 years in various markets in Africa and Southeast Asia. She noted that Egypt serves as the regional hub for North Africa and that the institution invests either directly by taking equity stakes or through financing, similar to international finance institutions. She emphasized that direct investment relies on increasing capital to ensure that funding supports economic growth for companies, often through long-term financing.<\/p>\n\n She added that the institution's investments across all the markets it covers amount to $10.5 billion, with annual investments ranging from $1.5 billion to $2 billion globally. In Egypt, the institution’s investments total approximately $850 million in more than 70 companies, creating over 91,000 job opportunities across various sectors. She stressed the collaboration between the institution and the private sector in Egypt to support growth plans that align with the Egyptian government’s efforts to open up space for private sector investment while simultaneously meeting international development goals.<\/p>\n\n Mr. Mohamed Saad, Head of the UK Export Finance Office for Egypt and Algeria, presented the activities of the UK Export Finance agency in Egypt and the region. He explained how the agency supports companies in enhancing their export capabilities through accessible and long-term financing mechanisms and guarantees. He highlighted the agency's role in strengthening relationships between UK businesses and the private sector in Egypt and its collaboration with banks and financial institutions to arrange joint financing. He confirmed the agency’s openness to strengthening its relationships with companies in Egypt, citing the successful partnerships it has already facilitated, including its support for the Cairo Monorail project.<\/p>\n\n In a separate discussion, representatives of the British Embassy pointed out that the trade exchange between Egypt and the United Kingdom amounted to £4.8 billion last year, with the UK remaining one of Egypt's largest foreign investors, particularly in sectors such as transport, water, and infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n The Embassy also highlighted its efforts to support trade and investment between the two countries, helping Egyptian and British companies expand their commercial networks and achieve sustainable growth through business events.<\/p>\n\n Additionally, the British Embassy showcased its initiatives to support climate change financing, including the Climate Finance Facility, which provides technical and financial support for low-carbon projects in Egypt to promote the green transition.<\/p>\n\n The meeting featured constructive discussions between private sector representatives about the available financial, investment, and trade opportunities provided by international financial institutions, as well as the services offered through the "HAFIZ" platform for financial and technical support to the private sector.<\/p>\n\n A large and diverse group of companies participated in the meeting, representing various developmental sectors such as telecommunications, information technology, education, waste recycling, engineering industries, business consulting, chemicals, electronics, and other fields.<\/p>\n","source_name":"Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation - Egypt","source_slug":"ministry-of-planning-economic-development-and-international-cooperation-egypt","source_logo":"0a4db166a2eb25b","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/as-part-of-the-bridge-dialogue-series-and-with-the-participation-of-85-representatives-from-private-sector-companies-export-councils-and-business-associations-the-ministry-of-planning-economic-development-and-international-cooperation-presents-the-financial-and-investment-opportunities-available-from-british-funding-institutions-for-private-sector-companies?lang=en","videos_count":0,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":0},{"id":"321055","publish_date":"2024-10-19 12:06:30","press_id":"321055","press_headline":"President El-Sisi Receives a Delegation from U.S. House of Representatives","press_sub_heading":"The congressional delegation sought to get a better understanding of President El-Sisi\u2019s perspective on how to restore peace and security in the region, avoid the expansion of the conflict, and prevent it from escalating into a regional war","press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"president-elsisi-receives-a-delegation-from-us-house-of-representatives","press_body":" Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives, representing both the Republican and Democratic parties, and headed by Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, Congressman Tom Cole. The meeting was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Dr. Badr Abdelatty.<\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Ahmed Fahmy stated that the discussions focused on regional issues. The congressional delegation sought to get a better understanding of President El-Sisi’s perspective on how to restore peace and security in the region, avoid the expansion of the conflict, and prevent it from escalating into a regional war.<\/p>\n\n The President emphasized the necessity to end the ongoing wars in Gaza and Lebanon. He also stressed the crucial need to make significant progress in the path of achieving ceasefires and hostage exchanges, and to provide urgent, immediate and large-scale humanitarian assistance to address the worsening and catastrophic humanitarian crisis.<\/p>\n\n President El-Sisi also highlighted the joint efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and the United States over recent periods, affirming that achieving meaningful progress requires political will from all parties as well as intensive international pressure to restore security and pave the way for peace.<\/p>\n\n In an open dialogue between President El-Sisi and members of the U.S. Congress regarding the two-state solution, the President reaffirmed that the establishment of an independent Palestinian state is the key to defusing regional tensions and advancing a path toward true and sustainable peace and security. He confirmed that this would serve the interests of all peoples in the region and pave the way for stability, development, and prosperity. In this context, the discussion focused on the overall situation in the region, including Egypt’s efforts to resolve and contain ongoing crises.<\/p>\n\n Members of the U.S. congressional delegation expressed their appreciation for the deep-rooted strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States. They commended Egypt’s role, as well as President El-Sisi’s ongoing efforts to establish peace and stability. They also reiterated the U.S.’ support for Egypt and its commitment to continuing consultations and coordination on various issues, in order to contribute to regional and international peace and security.<\/p>","source_name":"Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt","source_slug":"presidency-of-the-arab-republic-of-egypt","source_logo":"04cd40fd065257d","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/president-elsisi-receives-a-delegation-from-us-house-of-representatives?lang=en","videos_count":0,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":0},{"id":"321047","publish_date":"2024-10-19 11:44:34","press_id":"321047","press_headline":"The African Union - Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and Kenya at the HiHi Global Investment Forum 2024","press_sub_heading":"The Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum is a platform for national authorities to present agricultural investment opportunities, focusing on long-term finance and supporting private investors in developing countries","press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"the-african-union-interafrican-bureau-for-animal-resources-auibar-and-kenya-at-the-hihi-global-investment-forum-2024","press_body":" An integral component of AU-IBAR's efforts to build sustainable livestock value chains in Africa is the Resilient African Feed and Fodder Systems (RAFFS) Project. The organization's participation in the Hand-in-Hand (HiHi) Global Investment Forum 2024, particularly in collaboration with Kenya—a key beneficiary of the RAFFS project—underscores its commitment to securing transformative investments in feed and fodder systems. Among the six African countries involved in the RAFFS project, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, and Cameroon were represented at the forum.<\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n Held in Rome from October 15-17, 2024, the forum provided a platform for 13 African countries to present their investment opportunities to investors, multilateral development banks, private sector partners, and other stakeholders. AU-IBAR was represented by Dr. Sarah Ossiya, Coordinator, and David Maina, Feed & Fodder Business Development Expert under the RAFFS Project. They joined the Kenyan delegation to engage with African countries on investment opportunities. Kenya, a focus country for RAFFS, showcased areas such as maize, cotton ginning, pasture seed multiplication, pasture storage, and black soldier fly farming. In an interview with FAO, Hon. Jonathan Mueke, CBS (Principal Secretary, State Department of Livestock Development, Kenya) emphasized, “This year, Kenya brought compelling investment cases to the forum. We are exploring opportunities in animal feed production, warehousing, and value addition. These projects are expected to attract $231 million, benefit 700,000 people, and reduce carbon emissions by 100,000 tonnes, with an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 24%.”<\/p>\n\n The Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum is a platform for national authorities to present agricultural investment opportunities, focusing on long-term finance and supporting private investors in developing countries. In Kenya, agriculture, particularly livestock, is crucial, contributing 21% of GDP and employing 40% of the population. Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), which host 70% of the country’s livestock, face food insecurity and climate change challenges. The Hand-in-Hand Initiative aims to catalyze sustainable transformations in the livestock value chain, with AU-IBAR playing a key role in these efforts.<\/p>\n\n More Details on the Hand-in-Hand (HiHi) Global Investment Forum 2024<\/a><\/p>","source_name":"The African Union \u2013 Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR)","source_slug":"the-african-union--interafrican-bureau-for-animal-resources-auibar","source_logo":"e5a820b28022723","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/the-african-union-interafrican-bureau-for-animal-resources-auibar-and-kenya-at-the-hihi-global-investment-forum-2024?lang=en","videos_count":0,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":0},{"id":"321043","publish_date":"2024-10-19 09:58:53","press_id":"321043","press_headline":"President Akufo-Addo Commissions Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence at Korle Bu","press_sub_heading":"The new Centre is set to provide critical care for patients suffering from urological and nephrological conditions, offering advanced treatments that were previously unavailable in the country","press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"president-akufoaddo-commissions-urology-and-nephrology-centre-of-excellence-at-korle-bu","press_body":" President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Friday, 18th October 2024, inaugurated a state-of-the-art Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, marking a major step forward in Ghana's healthcare system.<\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n The new Centre is set to provide critical care for patients suffering from urological and nephrological conditions, offering advanced treatments that were previously unavailable in the country.<\/p>\n\n The facility is expected to reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for specialized care, while also positioning Ghana as a hub for medical tourism in the West African sub-region.<\/p>\n\n The Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence, constructed at a cost of €38 million, was made possible through a credit facility provided by Raiffeisen Bank International AG of Austria, with insurance cover from OeKB Group. The facility boasts cutting-edge technology and a wide range of services aimed at addressing the growing burden of kidney diseases and urological disorders in the country. President Akufo-Addo described the commissioning of the Centre as a "considerable milestone" in Ghana’s healthcare journey, one that exemplifies the government’s unwavering commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n "This modern facility will provide advanced treatments for patients with chronic and acute kidney failures, as well as other urological conditions. The Centre is also positioned to offer life-saving services such as kidney transplants—helping to fulfill our national objective of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC)," the President said during his speech.<\/p>\n\n The Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence is fully equipped to deliver comprehensive healthcare services. It includes a 30-suite dialysis station for patients with kidney disorders, a 70-bed unit for genito-urinary patients, an outpatient department, and comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services. The facility also has inpatient care services, administrative and management offices, public amenities, and staff facilities. In addition, it features medical and non-medical support services, a research facility, and a three-year post-construction maintenance and training program to ensure the facility’s smooth operation in the years ahead.<\/p>\n\n With such state-of-the-art capabilities, the Centre will be able to serve not only Ghanaians but also patients from neighboring countries. This opens the door for medical tourism, which President Akufo-Addo emphasized as a potential revenue generator for the facility. "The Centre will put Ghana on the map for medical tourism, providing services to patients from neighbouring countries and beyond. This will generate additional revenue for the facility, ensuring sustainability and continued expansion of services," he said.<\/p>\n\n President Akufo-Addo's government has long prioritized healthcare development as part of its broader goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all Ghanaians. The commissioning of the Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence is just one example of the many initiatives aimed at improving access to quality healthcare across the country. During his speech, the President pointed to the significant strides his administration has made in healthcare infrastructure, citing the successful commissioning of the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital in August 2024 as a recent example.<\/p>\n\n By the close of 2024, the government expects to complete several additional healthcare projects, including the construction of 11 district hospitals and one polyclinic in the Ashanti, Eastern, Greater Accra, and Ahafo Regions. These projects are part of the government’s flagship "Agenda 111" initiative, which aims to build district hospitals in every district without one, as well as fully functional regional hospitals in each regional capital, particularly in the newly created regions.<\/p>\n\n President Akufo-Addo highlighted the progress of Agenda 111, noting that eight district hospitals are nearly completed, while the overall progress of the project stands at 69% as of September 2024. He expressed confidence that several of the facilities currently at over 90% completion would be finished before the end of the year.<\/p>\n\n "These projects represent the fulfillment of our commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage and ensuring the delivery of more efficient healthcare services across the country," the President remarked. "Our healthcare infrastructure stands as one of the greatest legacies of my administration."<\/p>\n\n In addition to expanding healthcare infrastructure, the Akufo-Addo government has focused on addressing the uneven distribution of healthcare workers, particularly in rural and underserved areas. President Akufo-Addo urged the Ministry of Health to expedite the completion of a draft incentive package that would help ensure healthcare staff are placed where they are most needed. This effort is part of the government’s broader strategy to make healthcare services more equitable across the country.<\/p>\n\n "We remain steadfast in addressing the uneven distribution of healthcare workers," the President said. "I urge the Ministry of Health to expedite the completion of the draft incentive package for government consideration, ensuring that healthcare staff are placed where they are most needed."<\/p>\n\n As part of the government's focus on sustainable healthcare infrastructure, President Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of maintaining the Urology and Nephrology Centre to ensure its longevity. He called on the management of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital to adopt a robust preventive maintenance strategy to keep the facility in optimal condition. The President also emphasized the role of community involvement in holding healthcare managers accountable for the proper utilization of the facility.<\/p>\n\n "It is critical that we implement a well-thought-out maintenance plan," President Akufo-Addo said. "I call on the management of the Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence to adopt a robust preventive maintenance strategy to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of this facility."<\/p>\n\n The President extended his gratitude to all who contributed to the project’s success, including the financiers, contractors, consultants, and healthcare professionals. He also acknowledged the dedication of international partners and stakeholders, including Messrs Vamed Engineering and their Ghanaian technical consultants, who delivered exceptional work.<\/p>\n\n As Ghana continues to make strides in healthcare development, the inauguration of the Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence represents a significant achievement in the country’s pursuit of Universal Health Coverage. With this new facility, Ghanaians and patients from neighboring countries alike can now access world-class care for kidney and urological conditions. The President’s focus on sustainability, healthcare worker distribution, and ongoing infrastructure projects like Agenda 111 demonstrates the government's long-term commitment to building a healthcare system that serves all Ghanaians.<\/p>\n\n In conclusion, President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to delivering on its healthcare promises. "Our progress in healthcare infrastructure is a proud legacy of this administration," he said.<\/p>\n\n "We will continue to work towards ensuring that every Ghanaian has access to the quality healthcare they deserve."<\/p>","source_name":"The Presidency, Republic of Ghana","source_slug":"the-presidency-republic-of-ghana","source_logo":"a8fd7840f25fedc","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/president-akufoaddo-commissions-urology-and-nephrology-centre-of-excellence-at-korle-bu?lang=en","videos_count":0,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":0},{"id":"321039","publish_date":"2024-10-19 09:54:11","press_id":"321039","press_headline":"Grandi: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) will uphold core mandate while seeking novel solutions","press_sub_heading":"UN High Commissioner for Refugees wraps up Executive Committee meeting in Geneva with appeal for new approaches and funding to ensure sustainable support to refugees","press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"grandi-united-nations-high-commissioner-for-refugees-unhcr-will-uphold-core-mandate-while-seeking-novel-solutions","press_body":" UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, will continue to fulfil its humanitarian mandate of providing protection and solutions to forcibly displaced and stateless people globally, even as it pursues new approaches to bridge a widening gap in aid funding, mitigate the impact of climate change and respond to emerging challenges, UN High Commissioner Filippo Grandi said on Friday.<\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n In his closing statement at UNHCR’s annual Executive Committee (ExCom) meeting in Geneva, Grandi told government representatives that UNHCR would continue to respond to emergencies such as the ongoing conflict in Lebanon – where, in the course of the week-long meeting, thousands more have fled airstrikes – and protracted crises such as in Yemen, Myanmar, the Sahel, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Afghanistan.<\/p>\n\n “Rest assured that whenever you are confronted with crises of forced displacement, whenever you need support and advice to strengthen your asylum capacities or your legal frameworks, or whenever you celebrate the return of your people after they have been in exile, UNHCR will be by your side,” Grandi said.<\/p>\n\n But he also highlighted the shifts in approach required by governments, UN agencies, development actors and other partners in order to guarantee adequate support for refugees, displaced people, and host countries and communities. Sustainable aid requires refugee inclusion – and increased investment – in host countries’ health, education and employment sectors, he said.<\/p>\n\n “I want to make this very clear: the sustainable aid model which we aim to achieve, based on inclusion and self-reliance, absolutely cannot work without continued financial support from donors,” the High Commissioner said. “Host countries repeatedly emphasized that point this week.”<\/p>\n\n Lasting benefits<\/strong><\/p>\n\n His comments followed exchanges with governments and other partners earlier in the week at a side event on sustainable aid. Participants shared examples of existing approaches in countries in Africa and Latin America based on inclusion that help refugees and local communities in the short term and also promise lasting benefits once refugees are able to return home.<\/p>\n\n At the event, Xavier Devictor, an Adviser to the World Bank who leads work on development in situations of forced displacement, said that with refugee situations lasting an average of 13 years, it was prudent to put in place responses that – unlike humanitarian aid alone – can be sustained over time.<\/p>\n\n In his closing speech, Grandi also referenced discussions on new “route-based” approaches to managing mixed flows of refugees and migrants in many regions of the world, which was the subject of another side event on Thursday. Participants heard how these mixed flows increasingly expose people on the move to grave dangers and place increased pressure on asylum systems in countries of destination.<\/p>\n\n Various route-based initiatives among states, UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) were discussed to better support people on the move and reduce the number of dangerous journeys. These include supporting asylum capacity, providing more protection services where they are most needed, and finding other solutions along such routes, including work, refugee resettlement or voluntary return for those not needing international protection.<\/p>\n\n Many states signalled their support for such initiatives while stressing that implementing solutions, better data-gathering and monitoring will require greater financial support.<\/p>\n\n Chronic underfunding<\/strong><\/p>\n\n On Tuesday, there was a side event on the conflict in Sudan, where more than 11.3 million people have been forcibly displaced in the past 18 months, including nearly 3 million refugees fleeing to other countries in the region. Delegates heard that Chad, which hosts the highest number of Sudanese refugees, had received a surge of more than 25,000 new arrivals in the first week of October – more than in the whole of September.<\/p>\n\n Amid chronic underfunding of the refugee response for Sudan – currently amounting to less than a third of total needs for 2024 – participants underscored the need to increase development funding and other long-term investments in Chad and other host countries in line with the sustainable aid model.<\/p>\n\n This year’s ExCom meeting also included the official launch of a new Global Alliance to End Statelessness<\/a>, building on the success of UNHCR’s decade-long #IBelong campaign, during which more than half a million people have received a nationality. Grandi announced on Friday that a dozen more members had joined the Alliance during ExCom, with more announcing plans to sign up.<\/p>\n\n Having reiterated his appeal for meaningful ceasefires in the Middle East and in other areas under conflict, the High Commissioner concluded by quoting former Syrian refugee Jin Davod, one of the UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award regional winners honoured on Monday<\/a>, who said in her acceptance speech: “Nobody chooses to be a refugee, but you can choose whether to help refugees.”<\/p>\n\n Grandi said: “We must indeed continue to choose not only to help refugees but also to listen to them and to empower them so they can cease to be refugees. Thank you for making this choice with us.”<\/p>","source_name":"United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)","source_slug":"united-nations-high-commissioner-for-refugees-unhcr","source_logo":"bde94a4ea63a16b","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/grandi-united-nations-high-commissioner-for-refugees-unhcr-will-uphold-core-mandate-while-seeking-novel-solutions?lang=en","videos_count":0,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":0},{"id":"321023","publish_date":"2024-10-19 09:23:29","press_id":"321023","press_headline":"Historic Africa Hall to be inaugurated \u2013 Reflecting on Africa\u2019s past, and Present with a Focus on a Sustainable Future","press_sub_heading":"The signing of the charter in Africa Hall is regarded as a significant achievement of unity for Africa\u2019s post-colonial history","press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"historic-africa-hall-to-be-inaugurated--reflecting-on-africas-past-and-present-with-a-focus-on-a-sustainable-future","press_body":" After years of intensive renovations, Africa Hall, the iconic birthplace of the Organization of African Unity is being inaugurated. Commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie I, the 1961 Arturo Mezzèdimi modernist masterpiece<\/a> was designed as a place where Africans could meet to deliberate on pressing issues – independence, freedom, development and a brighter future.<\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n As the headquarters of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), it has hosted countless conferences since the 1963 signing of the Charter for the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) by the heads of African States and the establishment of the OAU, the precursor to the African Union (AU). The signing of the charter in Africa Hall is regarded as a significant achievement of unity for Africa’s post-colonial history.<\/p>\n\n While attempts to renovate it had started in earnest in prior years with previous Executive Secretaries advocating for funding to rehabilitate its crumbling structures, it was during the 50th anniversary of the ECA<\/a>, that the initiative for the renovation of Africa Hall as “a monument to African history” was launched in collaboration with UNESCO, the African Union Commission, and the Government of Ethiopia.<\/p>\n\n ECA, with the support of national and international experts, had completed the feasibility study and the concept design in 2014 and the 70th session of the UN General Assembly approved the renovation project, entrusting ECA with the implementation.<\/p>\n\n With an ambitious renovation plan and extensive advocacy<\/a> among member states, a groundbreaking ceremony<\/a> amplified its cultural significance as a heritage with tourism potential for Ethiopia, beyond one of the state-of-the-art conferencing venues and despite the COVID-19 pandemic, renovation works pushed on and Africa Hall has slowly emerged into a modern facility, with a new visitors centre and a permanent exhibition, while respecting the architectural and artistic vision of the ‘60s.<\/p>\n\n Voluntary contributions from member states such as Mali and Portugal have helped to enhance the renovation. For instance, Portugal contributed towards the restoration of Ethiopian Maitre, Afework Tekle’s Triptych - an artistic stained-glass masterpiece which stands at the entrance of Africa Hall themed, The Total Liberation of Africa.<\/strong> Commissioned by the late Ethiopia’s Emperor Haile Selassie I and inaugurated in 1961, the 150-square meter stained-glass mural encapsulates the challenges, aspirations and future of Africa. Experts hail it as “an extraordinary study on the soul of the continent, which has over the years, grappled with claiming its own destiny.” Additional artistic expressions are housed within Africa Hall, donated primarily by member states.<\/p>\n\n Following the inauguration, there will be side events<\/a> culminating with UN Day on 24 October.<\/p>\n\n For historical images, videos and key moments go to: https:\/\/africahall.uneca.org<\/a><\/p>\n\n Watch the inauguration live: https:\/\/webtv.un.org\/en\/asset\/k11\/k11zas88cf<\/a><\/p>","source_name":"United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA)","source_slug":"united-nations-economic-commission-for-africa-eca","source_logo":"272b7e64d260a08","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/historic-africa-hall-to-be-inaugurated--reflecting-on-africas-past-and-present-with-a-focus-on-a-sustainable-future?lang=en","videos_count":0,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":0},{"id":"321019","publish_date":"2024-10-18 18:20:25","press_id":"321019","press_headline":"Afreximbank announces aim to double Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) funding to $2 billion to boost Africa\u2019s creative economy","press_sub_heading":"Afreximbank has seen a significant increase in opportunities within industries from film production and music to fashion manufacturing and sports","press_logo":"ce13a557be9b9b9","press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"afreximbank-announces-aim-to-double-canex-funding-to-2-billion-to-boost-africas-creative-economy","press_body":" President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank (www.AfreximBank.com<\/a>), Professor Benedict Oramah, has announced that Afreximbank will increase its funding to the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme from $1 billion <\/strong>to $2 billion<\/strong> for the next three years. The announcement was made during the CANEX WKND 2024 opening ceremony in Algiers, Algeria, and underscores the Bank’s dedication to Africa’s growing creative economy. <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n The decision to double CANEX funding arises from a marked surge in demand across Africa’s creative sectors. Since 2022, Afreximbank has seen a significant increase in opportunities within industries from film production and music to fashion manufacturing and sports. With the newly increased $2 billion fund, Afreximbank aims to fulfil these verticals’ growing needs by providing infrastructure, financing, and other resources that will help Africa’s creative industries flourish on a global scale. <\/p>\n\n Professor Oramah observed that this expansion marks a historic progression in Afreximbank’s strategy to support the creative economy – from the Bank’s initial commitment of $500 million to the sector when CANEX launched in 2020. That figure, the President noted, increased to $1 billion in 2022 to satisfy demand. This upward trend reflects Afreximbank’s profound belief in the power of African creativity to drive economic growth and generate employment. <\/p>\n\n Commenting on the funding decision, Prof. Oramah <\/strong>said: <\/p>\n\n “As with many things in Africa, opportunities in the African creative industries abound but remain untapped. This is why Afreximbank has adopted a proactive approach to catalysing the industry. Today, I am pleased to announce a further doubling of our creative industry finance window to 2 billion US dollars for the next three years. This will enable us to support significant infrastructure investments for film production, stadia, arenas, manufacturing facilities for fashion, and training centres.” <\/p>\n\n The new funding will primarily focus on infrastructure development, which remains a key challenge in the creative sectors. Afreximbank plans to invest in film production facilities, music arenas, sports stadiums, and fashion manufacturing hubs across the continent. These projects aim to equip African creatives with the necessary tools and spaces to produce content and goods that can compete internationally. <\/p>\n\n Moreover, the fund will also support talent development. Afreximbank’s goal is to help nurture and train African creative professionals to international best-standards, ensuring they have the skills and resources to thrive. <\/p>\n\n Afreximbank also recognizes the need for innovative financing solutions tailored to the unique challenges of the creative economy. In response, the Bank is developing a $500 million private equity film fund through its impact equity arm, Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA). This initiative will finance film production and distribution, giving African filmmakers access to critical resources for creating content that can attract global audiences. <\/p>\n\n Another focus area for the Fund will be the fostering of collaborations between Africa and the Diaspora. The viability of this model has been demonstrated by partnerships such as that between African musicians and global artists like the Afro-Brazilian band OLODUM, which led to the production of the acclaimed "ONE Drum" EP. The expanded fund will enable more collaborations of this kind, amplifying African cultural expression and visibility on the global stage. <\/p>\n","source_name":"Afreximbank","source_slug":"afreximbank","source_logo":"6d94a466938d6a8","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":"afreximbank","city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/afreximbank.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/afreximbank-announces-aim-to-double-canex-funding-to-2-billion-to-boost-africas-creative-economy?lang=en","images":[{"id":"123477","created":"2024-10-19 08:36:25","updated":null,"created_by":"16748","ordering_count":"66549","media_press_id":"321019","media_file_id":"aabbf938feee57b","media_type":"i","media_video_id":null,"media_video":null,"media_video_type":null,"no_views":null,"no_shares":null,"no_download":"3","media_audio_id":null,"media_audio":null,"media_audio_type":null,"media_id":"123477","file_id":"aabbf938feee57b","folder_id":"7811","type":"i","name":"IMG-20241016-WA0024.jpg","filename":"016b31a7bf025d81f3d1dc050a3a4a23.jpg","path":"{{ url:site }}files\/large\/016b31a7bf025d81f3d1dc050a3a4a23.jpg","extension":".jpg","mimetype":"image\/jpeg","description":"","alt_attribute":"","download_count":"32","media_description":"Prof. Oramah Commenting on the funding decision","media_lang":"en","media_description_default":"Prof. Oramah Commenting on the funding decision","folder_name":"1024-17","folder_slug":"1024-17"}],"videos_count":0,"images_count":1,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":1},{"id":"321015","publish_date":"2024-10-18 16:28:40","press_id":"321015","press_headline":"On Mogadishu visit, top official reaffirms United Nations (UN) support for Somalia","press_sub_heading":"The UN has been a longstanding partner to Somalia and remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Somali government and its people","press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"on-mogadishu-visit-top-official-reaffirms-united-nations-un-support-for-somalia","press_body":" Wrapping up a two-day visit to Somalia, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, today reaffirmed the world body’s support for the country’s peace- and state-building. <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n “The UN has been a longstanding partner to Somalia and remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Somali government and its people,” Ms. DiCarlo said. <\/p>\n\n “Together, we aim to build on the commendable achievements and priorities agreed upon to address key development challenges facing the country – we stand ready to work alongside the Federal Government of Somalia to accomplish this,” she added.<\/p>\n\n While in the Somali capital, Ms. DiCarlo met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and senior members of his team for wide-ranging discussions, in addition to meeting with representatives of civil society.<\/p>\n\n In her meeting with the President, Ms. DiCarlo noted Somalia’s many achievements in the past year, including debt relief under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative, the accession to the East African Community, and the lifting of the arms embargo. <\/p>\n\n Looking forward, she offered her congratulations on Somalia taking up a seat on the UN Security Council in 2025-26. She also underscored the commitment of the UN to continue to support Somalia in the period ahead and to work closely on the proposed transition of UNSOM. <\/p>\n\n While in Mogadishu, the Under-Secretary-General met with the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Ambassador Mohammed El-Amine Souef. They discussed ATMIS’s upcoming transition to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) on 1 January 2025. She also met with international partners\/the diplomatic community in Mogadishu for wide-ranging discussions. <\/p>","source_name":"United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM)","source_slug":"united-nations-assistance-mission-in-somalia-unsom","source_logo":"31da37143cd6dad","source_lang":"en","source_subdomain":null,"city_name":null,"country_name":null,"media_url":"https:\/\/www.africa-newsroom.com\/press\/media\/on-mogadishu-visit-top-official-reaffirms-united-nations-un-support-for-somalia?lang=en","videos_count":0,"images_count":0,"documents_count":0,"audios_count":0,"links":[],"links_count":0,"media_count":0},{"id":"321011","publish_date":"2024-10-18 16:19:12","press_id":"321011","press_headline":"Zambia: Authorities must immediately release arrested journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo","press_sub_heading":"Zgambo\u2019s arrest comes days after President Hakainde Hichilema reaffirmed his administration\u2019s commitment to press freedom and the promotion of access to information","press_logo":null,"press_lang":"en","press_email_template_id":"14","press_slug":"zambia-authorities-must-immediately-release-arrested-journalist-thomas-allan-zgambo","press_body":" Responding to the arrest of Zambian journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo in Lusaka, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for East and Southern Africa, Vongai Chikwanda, said: <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n\n “Zambian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo and stop targeting him simply for doing his job. <\/p>\n\n “Journalism is not a crime. In fact, Zambia’s Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression and media freedom. Authorities must uphold their constitutional and international human rights obligations and allow journalists to freely carry out their work.” <\/p>\n\n Background<\/strong><\/p>\n\n Police arrested Zgambo<\/a>, who writes for the Zambia Whistleblower website, on 16 October while he was having a meal at a mall and have held him at the Ridgeway Police Station<\/a>. He has not been officially charged, but the arrest follows publication of an article<\/a> perceived to be critical of government officials. <\/p>\n\n Zgambo’s arrest comes days after President Hakainde Hichilema reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom and the promotion of access to information. <\/p>\n\n
\nOf the 46 commodities presented by African countries, 20 were in livestock feed and fodder, with five in aquaculture. Overall, 29 countries presented their investment opportunities, with 45% being African nations.<\/p>\n\n