sitemaps.org/schemas/sitemap/0.9/sitemap.xsd BrandArena : September 2024

Saturday 14 September 2024

Coca-Cola Africa Launches $25 Million Water Stewardship Initiative to Tackle Water Challenges Across 20 Countries


The Coca-Cola Company, alongside its African bottling partners Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA), Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company (ECCBC), and Coca-Cola HBC, has announced a nearly $25 million investment to address urgent water-related challenges in 20 African countries from 2023 to 2030. The initiative, known as the "Africa Water Stewardship Initiative," will be led by Global Water Challenge (GWC) and implemented by partners including The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

Aliko Dangote Urges African Business Leaders to Lead the Continent's Transformation


Aliko Dangote, President and CEO of Dangote Group, has called on African business leaders to take the lead in driving the continent’s transformation. Speaking at the African Renaissance Retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, Dangote highlighted Africa’s abundant resources and youthful population as key drivers for substantial, inclusive growth.

Canon Expands Creative Horizons with the Launch of RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM Lens


Canon has unveiled the RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM, a versatile zoom lens offering a constant aperture of f/2.8, designed for photographers seeking enhanced creativity and top-tier image quality without sacrificing portability. The lightweight lens is an ideal upgrade for photographers looking to expand their creative toolkit and elevate their storytelling abilities.

Talk360 Raises $1.4 Million Pre-Series A to Connect 7 Million African Diaspora Users by 2025


Talk360, the international calling app that provides reliable and affordable calls to any landline or mobile phone, has secured $1.4 million in a Pre-Series A funding round led by long-term investor Havaic. This new investment will propel the company’s mission to connect seven million users by 2025 while accelerating its path to long-term profitability.

Thursday 12 September 2024

Innoson Unveils Nigeria’s First Locally Manufactured Electric Vehicle


Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM), a leading Nigerian automaker, has made history by launching its first-ever electric vehicle (EV) produced at its Nnewi factory in Anambra State. 

Uber-Backed Nigerian Startup Moove Targets U.S. Expansion in Global Growth Plans


Moove, the Nigerian vehicle financing startup backed by Uber, is preparing to expand into the United States market as part of its global growth strategy. Since August, the company has been actively recruiting for key positions in Los Angeles and California, signalling its commitment to establishing a foothold in the U.S. This expansion aligns with Moove’s goal of achieving profitability by 2025.

Wednesday 11 September 2024

NBA Africa Unveils Finalists for Triple-Double Startup Accelerator Demo Day in New York

...10 startups from seven African countries selected to pitch


NBA Africa has announced the selection of 10 startups from seven African countries to pitch their innovative solutions at the Triple-Double Startup Accelerator Demo Day, scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 25, at NBA headquarters in New York City. This event, part of the "Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator" initiative launched in April 2024, aims to bolster Africa’s tech ecosystem and nurture the continent’s next generation of entrepreneurs.

Half-Year 2024 Report: GTCO Becomes First Nigerian Financial Institution to Cross ₦1 Trillion Profit

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has announced its audited financial results for the half-year ending June 30, 2024, becoming the first Nigerian financial institution to cross the ₦1 trillion profit mark.

Emirates Hosts Travel Agents Workshop Ahead of October Relaunch to Nigeria


Emirates held a workshop this week for key stakeholders in Nigeria’s travel industry, preparing for the airline’s highly anticipated relaunch of flights to Nigeria on 1 October. The workshop aimed to showcase Emirates' latest products and services, and provide a destination update on Dubai, reflecting the significance of Nigeria within its global network.

AFC Leads Nigeria's First-Ever Domestic Dollar Bond, Secures Over $900 Million


Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the continent’s premier infrastructure solutions provider, has successfully led Nigeria’s inaugural domestic dollar bond issuance, raising over $900 million. This groundbreaking bond, issued by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), marks a key milestone in the country's financial sector.

Tuesday 10 September 2024

TECNO and UNHCR Renew Partnership to Boost Primary Education for Refugee Children in Kenya


TECNO, a leading technology brand, has renewed its partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to continue supporting the global primary education programme for African refugee children. 

Why Ada Chose DLM Fixed Income Fund Over Traditional Savings — And Why You Should Too!


Ada had always been cautious with her finances. She grew up watching her parents save diligently in traditional bank accounts, but the meagre returns barely kept up with inflation, and financial freedom seemed like a distant goal. Determined to do things differently, Ada set out to find a smarter way to grow her money.

Sony Unveils $700 PlayStation 5 Pro with Powerful GPU, Advanced Ray Tracing, and AI Upscaling


Sony has officially introduced the PlayStation 5 Pro, the next leap in console gaming performance. Aimed at gamers seeking enhanced graphics and smoother gameplay, the PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7 for $699.99.

Apple Unveils iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus with Enhanced Intelligence and Cutting-Edge Camera Features


Apple has officially launched its latest smartphones, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, introducing a host of advanced features powered by Apple Intelligence, a new personal AI system that understands user context while maintaining privacy.

LG OLED TV: Leading the Way in Innovation and Multi-sensory Experience


LG Electronics, renowned globally for its cutting-edge consumer electronics and home entertainment solutions, proudly maintains its leadership in OLED technology. As the world’s premier OLED TV for over 11 years, LG continues to set the benchmark in innovation with the latest LG OLED TV, featuring the groundbreaking Six Senses Experience.

Origin Tech Group Launches Greener Hope Program to Tackle Nigeria's Food Security Crisis


In a bold move to address Nigeria’s mounting food security challenges, Origin Tech Group is leading the Greener Hope Agriculture Mechanization Productivity Programme (GHAPP). This groundbreaking initiative is designed to enhance food production and strengthen the country’s agricultural resilience. By deploying cutting-edge machinery, optimizing land usage, and making strategic investments in both production and processing, GHAPP is set to increase Nigeria’s food output by over 2 million metric tonnes.

Field Launches $11M Initiative to Combat Maternal Mortality Crisis in Africa with Support from Gates Foundation


Field, a leading African healthtech company, has unveiled a new service aimed at addressing the critical issue of maternal mortality in Africa. With $11 million in initial funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the service will fast-track the delivery of emerging therapies and health technologies to improve maternal, newborn, and child health, as well as nutrition.

Nigeria: Proposed VAT Reforms to Introduce 0% Tax on Intellectual Property and Service Exports


The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee has unveiled a proposal to implement a 0% VAT rate on intellectual property and service exports as part of a broader effort to boost Nigeria's export sector.

Chelsea Co-Owners Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly Considering Buyout Amid Strategic Disputes


The English Premier League (EPL) football club, Chelsea's two major shareholders, Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly, are reportedly exploring the possibility of buying each other out following internal disagreements. 

Monday 9 September 2024

Why Extreme E is Canceling the Rest of its 2024 Season Races


Extreme E has announced the cancellation of the remaining races in its 2024 season as the series prepares for its transition to the hydrogen-powered Extreme H. The canceled races include the planned events in Sardinia, Italy, and Phoenix, USA. However, the series is still exploring alternative venues to complete the season, though there is no guarantee this will happen.

Transcorp Power Shares Drop 10% as Investors Sell Off


Transcorp Power PLC saw a sharp decline in its share price, falling by 9.99% on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) as investors engaged in significant sell-offs. 

Rolls-Royce Partners with Karimjee Group to Enhance Power Solutions in Tanzania

Rolls-Royce, through its Power Systems division, has announced a strategic partnership with East African conglomerate Karimjee Group to deliver advanced mtu power solutions in Tanzania. This collaboration aims to strengthen the country’s energy infrastructure, support sustainable development, and drive industrial growth.

SITFINE Toilet Sanitizer Spray Unveiled in Lagos, Promises Lasting Germ Protection


Shodan Pharmaceuticals Ltd. has officially introduced SITFINE Toilet Sanitizer Spray to the Nigerian market. The innovative, quick-drying aerosol is designed to kill 99.99% of germs on toilet seats. Unveiled at a media briefing in Lagos, SITFINE aims to enhance personal hygiene in public and private restrooms.

NCC Launches Nationwide Mobile Phone Tracking and Registration System


The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has rolled out a nationwide Device Management System (NCC-DMS) to regulate and track all mobile phones connected to Nigeria’s communication networks. 

IBM to Acquire Accelalpha, Expanding Oracle Consulting Capabilities


IBM has announced plans to acquire Accelalpha, a global Oracle services firm known for its expertise in transforming core business operations through Oracle Cloud Applications. This acquisition will strengthen IBM's Oracle consulting practice in supply chain, finance, enterprise performance management, and customer transformation.

Sony Set to Unveil PlayStation 5 Pro in Short Livestream Tomorrow


Sony is expected to unveil the PlayStation 5 Pro tomorrow during a short livestream, scheduled for 11AM ET on September 10 via the PlayStation YouTube channel. The "PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation" will be hosted by Mark Cerny, the lead architect of the PS5, and will highlight "PS5 and innovations in gaming technology."

FlapKap Raises $34M Pre-Series A to Boost SME Financing in MENA

...Doubles Growth Over Two Years


Abu Dhabi-based fintech FlapKap has secured $34 million in debt and equity funding to expand its revenue-based and embedded financing services across the MENA region. The funding round, led by BECO Capital, included new investment from Pact VC and follow-on backing from A15, Nclude, QED Investors, and debt financing from Channel Capital, bringing FlapKap’s total funding to $37.6 million.

Sunday 8 September 2024

South Africa, Nigeria Invited to Compete for AFRIMA 2025 And 2026 Hosting Rights

… Morocco also shows interest in hosting


South Africa and Nigeria have been invited by the African Union (AU) to compete for the hosting rights of the 2025 and 2026 editions of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). The invitation was officially extended in a letter signed by Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, AU Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development.

Saturday 7 September 2024

Lagos Ranks 6th Among World's Best Cities for Nightlife, Surpassing Rotterdam and Manchester


Lagos has secured the 6th spot in Time Out’s 2024 global ranking for the best cities for nightlife, surpassing renowned cities like Rotterdam and Manchester.

FBN Holdings Plc Sells 100% Stake in FBNQuest Merchant Bank to EverQuest Acquisition LLP


FBN Holdings Plc has announced the sell of its entire 100% equity stake in FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited to EverQuest Acquisition LLP. This strategic sale is part of FBN Holdings' ongoing efforts to optimise its portfolio, subject to regulatory approval.

Olusola Oworu Appointed to Lafarge Africa Plc Board of Directors


Lafarge Africa Plc has announced the appointment of Olusola Oworu, a distinguished finance expert with over 30 years of cross-sector experience, to its Board of Directors. Mrs. Oworu brings a wealth of expertise in consulting, banking and finance, commerce, energy, and public service.

Friday 6 September 2024

Countdown Begins for 2025 Intra-African Trade Fair in Algiers


Over 35,000 visitors from 140+ countries will converge in Algiers, Algeria, from 4–10 September 2025 for the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025), Africa's premier trade and investment event.

Nominations Now Open for Angola Oil & Gas 2024 Awards


The Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference and exhibition, the country’s premier industry event, has announced that nominations for the AOG Awards 2024 are now open. The prestigious event celebrates outstanding achievements within Angola’s oil and gas sector, recognizing excellence in project development, exploration, innovation, and leadership.

Nigeria Becomes Third-Largest Debtor to World Bank's IDA, Secures $2.2 Billion Under Tinubu Administration


Nigeria has risen to the third-largest debtor of the World Bank's International Development Association (IDA) as of June 30, 2024, marking a significant increase in its borrowing from the institution.

Global Africa Business Initiative announces lineup for 2024 flagship event “Unstoppable Africa: The Solution for a Global Future”

...Folly Bah Thibault and Larry Madowo to anchor the event 


The Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) has revealed the lineup and program for its 2024 flagship event, “Unstoppable Africa: The Solution for a Global Future,” taking place on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York from September 25-26. This high-profile, two-day forum will bring together influential leaders from both the public and private sectors to spotlight Africa's growing influence in global business and sustainable development solutions.

Agusto & Co Upgrades Odu’a Investment Rating to A+


Agusto & Co, a leading Pan-African credit rating agency, has upgraded the rating of Odu’a Investment Company Ltd. (OICL) from "A" to "A+" in its latest review.

Flutterwave Hires Former Citi Executive Mitesh Popat as Chief Financial Officer


Flutterwave, a leading force in the African payments sector, has appointed Mitesh Popat as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), following a nine-month search after the departure of former CFO Oneal Bhambani.

BMW and Toyota Partner to Launch Hydrogen-Powered Cars by 2028


BMW has announced plans to begin commercial production of hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2028, as part of a joint effort with Toyota to establish hydrogen technology as an alternative to battery-electric cars. The German automaker will develop a new generation of fuel-cell powertrains in collaboration with Toyota, with a hydrogen variant of an existing BMW model set to debut that year.

MTN Opens Investigation Into Favoritism Allegations Against CEO Ralph Mupita


MTN Group is investigating allegations of favoritism involving its CEO, Ralph Mupita. According to a report by the Sunday Times on September 1, several executives have threatened to resign, accusing Mupita of showing preferential treatment to a female executive. The newspaper cited unnamed sources.

Tuesday 3 September 2024

Dangote and MTN Lead as Top Brands in Nigeria’s 2024 Ranking


Dangote Industries Limited has been named Nigeria’s 'Most Valuable Brand' for 2024, achieving an impressive 89.6 percent on the brand strength measurement index (BSM) in the annual ranking by ‘Top 50 Brands Nigeria’. This marks the seventh consecutive year that Dangote has secured this top position.

Monday 2 September 2024

Tinubu Appoints Dr. Mansur Muhtar as Chairman of Bank of Industry, Announces New Board Members


President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Mansur Muhtar as the Chairman of the Bank of Industry Limited, along with a new board comprised of distinguished professionals. This announcement was made by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.

LG Electronics South Africa Unveils Online Store, Revolutionizes Local Tech Shopping


LG Electronics South Africa has launched its much-anticipated online store, marking a significant shift in how South Africans will shop for their favourite technology products. This launch is more than just the debut of an e-commerce platform—it's a strategic move that redefines the digital retail landscape and represents a new milestone in LG’s journey in South Africa, according to Mr. Jinkook Kang, Subsidiary President at LG Electronics South Africa.

Bill Gates to Engage Nigerian Leaders and Innovators, Drive Health Advancements and Nutritional Solutions in Africa


Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is visiting Nigeria as part of the foundation's ongoing dedication to fostering Africa's development. During the visit, Gates will meet with national and local leaders, key partners, grantees, and innovators.

Ecobank Uganda Joins Forces with Ria Money Transfer to Boost Remittance Services


Ecobank Uganda Limited has entered into a strategic partnership with Ria Money Transfer, a leading global provider of cross-border remittance services. The collaboration aims to enhance remittance options across Uganda, enabling customers to receive funds directly into their Ecobank accounts. 

ECOWAS Reconsiders Single Currency Initiative Amidst Ongoing Challenges


The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is re-evaluating its single currency project, the ECO, after years of difficulties in bringing the plan to fruition.

Nigeria’s Tier-1 Banks See Market Value Surge to N4.81 Trillion Amid Mixed Trading


Nigeria’s leading Tier-1 banks have seen their combined market value rise to N4.81 trillion on the stock market, driven by increased investor interest in Zenith Bank, UBA, and FBN Holdings Plc, according to recent data from the Nigerian Exchange.

Nigeria’s SEC Grants Provisional Licenses to Crypto Exchanges Quidax and Busha


The Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has made a significant move in the regulation of digital assets by issuing provisional licenses to two cryptocurrency exchanges, Quidax and Busha. This development follows the SEC’s recent announcement of its plan to begin issuing its first set of cryptocurrency licenses.

Fidelity Bank Partners with Mastercard to Launch Enhanced Cross-Border Payment Solution in Nigeria

...Offer Near-Real-Time Funds Transfers to Over 60 Countries 


Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, has teamed up with Mastercard to introduce Fidelity Send, a cutting-edge cross-border payment solution. This new service is designed to provide individuals and businesses in Nigeria with faster, more reliable, and cost-effective international transactions, leveraging Mastercard’s extensive global network.