News – AshesGyamera.Com

Uganda signs $400m deal for green hydrogen fertiliser plant; when will Ghana’s plant begin?

The Eastern African country has sealed a deal to erect a plant for hydrogen fertilizer for local farmers

The multifaceted project will contribute to fostering low carbon development and promoting sustainable agriculture as it has already been articulated

While Ghana is struggling to cope with modern ways of improving hydrogen fertilizer, Uganda’s Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa on Thursday signed a joint development agreement with Industrial Promotion Services (IPS) and Westgass International for a green hydrogen fertiliser plant.

The plant will be strategically located at Karuma, Kiryandogo District, within Bunyoro sub-region to leverage its proximity with the 600 megawatts Karuma hydropower plant.

According to Ms Nankabirwa, the significance of the project extends far beyond the realms of agriculture.

She said the project aims to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fertilisers, therefore strengthening economic resilience and sovereignty with an estimated investment of about $400 million (Ush1.55 trillion).

The minister further explained that the project seeks to increase the production of nitrogen fertiliser to about 200,000 tonnes annually and would take up to 100 megawatts of electricity from the Karuma power station.

“This aligns with the energy policy that seeks to support industrialisation through electrification,” Ms Nankabirwa said.

She also added that the initiative is expected to create more than 300 direct jobs.

Speaking at the signing event, IPS CEO Galeb Gulam said as a long-term investor, they develop businesses to be vehicles that create economic value by improving people’s quality of life and restoring and protecting nature.

“This hydrogen-based fertiliser project will use Uganda’s abundant renewable energy resources to produce green hydrogen to be used for the manufacture of fertiliser,” Mr Gulam said.

He said they are excited to be part of the catalytical project that reflects commitment to climate action and the overall sustainable development agenda.

He also said the project would contribute to fostering low-carbon development and promoting sustainable agriculture as it has already been articulated.

Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PaceID Uganda) Chairman Odrek Rwabwogo emphasised that the project supports Uganda’s export goals, utilising rich natural resources and innovative technologies.

Mr Rwabwogo said the project aims at propelling the agricultural sector towards achieving the ambitious $6 billion export target.

Aga Khan Development Network has maintained its engagement in Uganda continuing to invest in education, healthcare, economic development, and cultural activities. Upholding its mandate of improving the quality of life of the communities in which it operates.

IPS is the industrial and infrastructure development arm of the Aga Khan Fund for economic development and an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network.

IPS has developed a wide range of businesses spanning multiple sectors such as energy, telecommunications, agro-based industries, pharmaceuticals, printing and packaging, among others.

By: Bernice Ofori Appiah

Nigerian co-founded startup, Lemfi suspends services to Ghana

Nigerian fintech startup LemFi, co-founded by Ridwan Olalere and Rian Cochran, has decided to suspend its financial services in Ghana, as announced in a statement on Tuesday via Instagram.

The company expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and emphasized its appreciation for the support of its Ghanaian customers. The statement assured customers that they would be promptly informed of any changes in the future.

Read the statement below.

“Important: Suspension of all services to Ghana.
“Hello Everyone. We regret to inform you that we are suspending all services to Ghana. As a result, you will be unable to send money to banks and mobile money in Ghana.
“We recognise that this change will bring about some inconvenience, and we sincerely apologise. We are appreciative of your business and your support. If anything changes in the future, you will be the first to know. If you need assistance, have any questions, or require further clarification, please reach out to us.”

LemFi, formerly known as Lemonade, gained prominence after securing a $33 million Series A funding round in 2020, led by Left Lane Capital and featuring investors like Y-Combinator, Zrosk, Global Founders Capital, and Olive Tree.

The startup aimed to empower the next generation of immigrants by offering a multi-currency platform that facilitates seamless transactions, including sending, receiving, holding, converting, and saving in both the user’s country of origin and their country of residence.

Following its successful funding round, LemFi outlined plans to expand its product offerings to the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The company expressed a commitment to innovation, tailoring its new products to meet the evolving needs of its user base.

LemFi initially launched its services in Canada in 2020, focusing on providing easy and low-cost remittance payments to Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya.

By 2021, the startup expanded to the UK, simultaneously broadening its reach by introducing 10 new African remittance corridors.

In a strategic move, LemFi acquired UK-based Rightcard Payment Services in late 2021, securing an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license from the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority.

2024 NAB Show Set to Revolutionize Sports Media with Innovative Technologies

Las Vegas, NV – As the media and broadcasting industry anticipates the 2024 National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show, the buzz is particularly strong around the advancements and opportunities in sports media.

Scheduled to take place in Las Vegas from April 13-17, 2024, the event promises to be a showcase for how emerging technologies are redefining sports broadcasting, offering unparalleled experiences for viewers and new avenues for content creators.

The 2024 NAB Show is expected to highlight several key trends that will shape the future of sports media. Among the most anticipated is the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), which are set to offer immersive viewing experiences. These technologies not only promise to bring fans closer to the action but also open new possibilities for interactive advertising and fan engagement.

Another significant focus will be on the adoption of 5G technology in sports broadcasting. With its high-speed connectivity and low latency, 5G is poised to enable more reliable and high-quality live sports coverage, especially in remote or challenging locations. This could lead to an increase in live broadcasts of niche sports, expanding their reach and popularity.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies will also be under the spotlight, with their potential to transform sports analytics and enhance personalized viewing experiences. From automated highlight reels to predictive analytics for performance improvement, AI and ML are becoming indispensable tools for sports media professionals.

Sustainability is another critical theme, with the industry seeking to minimize its environmental impact. The 2024 NAB Show will feature solutions for more energy-efficient production and broadcasting practices, highlighting the sector’s commitment to eco-friendly operations.

Additionally, the event will explore the evolving landscape of sports media rights and distribution, as digital platforms continue to challenge traditional broadcast models. Discussions will delve into strategies for navigating this complex environment, ensuring content creators can effectively reach and monetize their audiences.

The 2024 NAB Show is not just an exhibition but a forum for innovation, learning, and networking, offering sports media professionals invaluable insights into the future of their field. With its comprehensive program of workshops, panels, and demonstrations, the event is poised to inspire the next wave of technological advancements in sports broadcasting.

World Bank suspends funding to Uganda over anti-gay law; is Ghana next?

Summary

A statement from the Bank says further funding is being frozen until authorities in Uganda provide adequate policy to protect minorities, including the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other groups commonly categorised as LGBTQ+.

The World Bank has suspended any future funding for projects in Uganda, citing human rights violations from the recent enactment of the anti-homosexuality law.

A statement from the Bank says further funding is being frozen until authorities in Uganda provide adequate policy to protect minorities, including the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other groups commonly categorised as LGBTQ+.

“Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act fundamentally contradicts the World Bank Group’s values. We believe our vision to eradicate poverty on a liveable planet can only succeed if it includes everyone irrespective of race, gender, or sexuality,” the Bank said on Tuesday.

“This law undermines those efforts. Inclusion and non-discrimination sit at the heart of our work around the world.”

In May, President Yoweri Museveni signed into law the Anti-Homosexuality Act, providing penalties as high as a death sentence for “aggravated homosexuality.” It drew condemnations from rights groups and Western countries such as the US who threatened sanctions.

The US is a key shareholder in the World Bank and has almost always produced its president.

The World Bank said it has been prevailing upon Kampala to reconsider the law.

A team from the Bank, it said, have been speaking with Ugandan officials on “additional measures that are necessary to ensure projects are implemented in alignment with our environmental and social standards.”

“Our goal is to protect sexual and gender minorities from discrimination and exclusion in the projects we finance. These measures are currently under discussion with the authorities. No new public financing to Uganda will be presented to our Board of Executive Directors until the efficacy of the additional measures has been tested.

Same sex relations had been illegal in Uganda, even before this law, under the old penal code.

But critics charged the new law seals any possible protections for minorities who may now not be able to rent property as the new law promises punishments to those who conceal homosexuals.

It also provides for capital punishment for serial offenders against the law including those who transmit terminal illness like HIV/AIDs through gay sex. Promoters of homosexuality can be jailed for up to 20 years.

Recently, Ghana’s parliament also passed a similar law against LGBTQ and when officially signed by president Nana Add Dankwah Akufo-Addo, who also happens to be a human right lawyer, could see Ghana go head to head with World Bank.

Source: thecitizen.co.tz

Want to move to Japan? Applying for a visa just got easier for skilled workers

Want to move to Japan? Applying for a visa just got easier for skilled workers
Moving to Japan just got easier under a new visa system for skilled foreign workers.

High-flying graduates are also targeted by Japan’s simplified visa rules.

Ever dreamed of living in Japan? The country’s seamless blend of tradition and modernity alongside its beautiful nature and high wages are a draw for many foreign workers.

Gaining a work permit and visa for Japan isn’t easy – but that could be about to change.

In the hopes of boosting its economy and competitiveness, the country is looking to attract foreign workers and investments.

It has set a goal of gaining 100 trillion yen (€669 million) from foreign direct investment by 2030, using the weak yen as an incentive. This is 20 per cent higher than its previous aim and around double its 2022 figure, Reuters reports.

As part of the plan, the country wants to become Asia’s biggest startup hub, boost production and research, and attract skilled workers from overseas.

Why does Japan want to attract foreign workers?
Like many European countries, Japan has an ageing population. The country’s government projects that there will be almost one elderly person for each person of working age by 2060, according to the International Monetary Fund.

The effects of this are already starting to show, with the country facing a shortage of workers. In the long term, it will be bad news for the economy.

To meet its ambitious growth targets, Japan will need to look outwards to fill this gap.

Japan currently has around 1.8 million foreign workers. It will need to boost this to almost 7 million by 2040 to keep pace with targets, according to a 2022 report by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

To make itself more competitive in the wake of the pandemic, Japan has simplified its visa requirements for highly skilled professionals.

How is Japan simplifying its visa system?

From April this year, certain foreign workers are able to bypass the current points-based visa system if they fulfil set criteria. They will also be eligible for permanent residency status after just one year instead of three.

This applies to researchers and engineers with an annual income of at least 20 million yen (€134,000) and either a master’s degree or 10 years of work experience, according to Japanese daily newspaper The Mainichi. Corporate managers are required to have an income of 40 million yen (€268,000) and five years’ experience to qualify.

Entrepreneurs aiming to start a business in Japan may also be allowed to stay longer than one year under the country’s ‘start-up visa’, although details are not yet clear.

Japan will target young graduates from overseas
Japan also hopes to lure graduates from the world’s top 100 universities, The Mainichi reports.

Positioning these young workers as ‘future creative talent’, the country will give them ‘designated activities’ residency status. This would allow them to stay and work in the country for two years as they search for jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Ghana Police Service arrest Police inspector ‘Taakum’ for alleged murder of former girlfriend in Kumasi

The beleaguered policeman who allegedly killed his former girlfriend has been arrested on Sunday in Ashanti region

Ghana Police Service has confirmed the arrest of Inspector Ahmed Twumasi who allegedly shot six times and killed his former girlfriend Maa Adwoa on Friday evening in Adum, Kumasi.

The sad incident happened after the deceased was believed to have opted to ditch the suspect and that led to disagreements due to heartbreak and disappointment.

“POLICE INSPECTOR ARRESTED FOR THE MURDER OF A WOMAN IN KUMASI IN THE ASHANTI REGION,” a statement by the police began.

“The Police have this evening arrested a Police officer, Inspector Ahmed Twumasi, who is alleged to have shot and killed a female adult, who was believed to be his girlfriend.

“The shooting incident occurred in Kumasi, in the Ashanti region, on Thursday, 20th April 2023.”

The statement added: “The suspect, who has been on the run since the incident, was arrested at Sekyere, near Effiduase in the Ashanti Region as a result of a special Police operation, which was launched following the shooting incident.

“The suspect is currently in Police custody and will be put before court to face justice.”

Adwoa left behind one child whom she had with her former boyfriend.

EID donations to GMSA-AAMUSTED

The end of Ramadan is here and is occasioned by the celebration of Eid-ul-Ftr which aims to commemorate and mark the end of Ramadan fasting.

Eid prayers, charity, social gatherings, festive meals, gift-giving, dressing up, and many more are the core objectives of this celebration. In its pursuit to build a nation of harmony and religious inclusiveness, the Nasara Coordinator of AAMUSTED TESCON accompanied by some Executives and members, donated assorted drinks and an amount of cash to the Muslim ummah of AAMUSTED to help celebrate their Eid in a stellar way.

In his remarks, he thanked almighty Allah for granting us a successful Ramadan and forgiving us our shortcomings. “The NPP is the only party who has shown enormous concern to Muslims and is resolute in its quest to make the less ethnic groups in the country feel happy and a sense of belonging, hence the introduction of the Nasara Wing”, he stressed. He concluded by admonishing the Muslim ummah to bring their hands on deck to help the NPP in its endeavors.

ISHMAEL HAMIDU
Nasara Coordinator.

Innovation and Integration: Highlights from the 2023 NAB Show

April 2023, Las Vegas, NV – The 2023 National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show, the premier event for the media, entertainment, and technology industry, once again turned the spotlight on the future of content creation, distribution, and consumption. Held in Las Vegas, the event brought together a global community of industry professionals eager to explore the latest innovations and discuss the evolving landscape of broadcast and digital media.

One of the key themes of this year’s NAB Show was the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in media production and distribution. Several exhibitors showcased cutting-edge solutions that leverage AI for tasks ranging from content editing and enhancement to targeted advertising and viewer analytics. The advancements in AI technologies are paving the way for more personalized and engaging content, transforming how audiences consume media.

Another highlight was the emphasis on 5G technology and its impact on broadcasting. With its promise of faster data speeds and lower latency, 5G is expected to enhance live broadcasting experiences and enable new forms of content delivery, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences. Sessions and demonstrations focused on the potential of 5G to revolutionize live sports, events coverage, and mobile journalism.

Sustainability in broadcasting was also a significant focus, reflecting the industry’s growing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Exhibitors and speakers discussed strategies for sustainable production practices, energy-efficient technologies, and the role of media in promoting environmental awareness.

The 2023 NAB Show also highlighted the continued importance of content security, with advancements in encryption, digital rights management, and cybersecurity measures designed to protect intellectual property and ensure viewer privacy.

As the NAB Show wrapped up, attendees left with insights into the trends and technologies that will shape the future of the industry. From AI and 5G to sustainability and security, the innovations showcased at the event underscore the industry’s adaptability and its drive to meet the changing needs of audiences worldwide.

Gay party turns bloody as landlord flees for life in Kumasi

The beleaguered landlord had to run for his life as his house was turned into a crime scene following an alleged gay party organised by some occupants

There was a chaotic scene at Atwima Afrancho, a suburb of Ashanti regional capital Kumasi on February 23, 2023 when rumours started flying that some individuals alleged to be part of the LGBTQ group or homosexuals held an illegal party in the hood a night before.

This, according an eyewitness, led to a near death situation when a section of the youth in the area, took the laws into their hands and acted in a manner that posed danger to the alleged homosexuals.

A gentleman, named Hughes Columban nearly met his untimely death as the angry youth in the area later turned their frustrations on him. It was later revealed that Columban was attacked because he was identified as the owner of the house and did not do enough background checks on the people he rented out his facility to hence, helping them to engage in ungodly acts.

Ghana Police Service patrol team in the area had to intervene after they were alerted before peace could temporarily be restored

“Mr. Columban wasn’t attacked because he is gay or wants to be a gay,” and eyewitness told AshesGyamera.com in an interview.

“He was attacked because the youth believe he is aiding these people to practice an act that is against the laws of the country and traditions. As a well respected individual in the community, he should have done some background checks on people he rents his house out to because gays and lesbians are threat to the society and country as a whole.

“He was lucky to have escaped and it is a wake up call to all landlords in the area. They should do the needful and not always prioritise money over the general well being of the people in the area,” the witness added.

The case has been sent to the Ghana Police Service headquarters in Kumasi pending further investigations.

It should be noted that homesexuality is a forbidden act in Ghana and many African countries. An anti LGBTQ bill is currently in the process to become a law in Ghana parliament to help curb down homosexuals activities.

Former Chelsea winger Christian Atsu found dead after Turkey Earthquake

The former player for the Premier League club has been confirmed dead after two weeks under rubles in Turkey

Former Chelsea and Newcastle United midfielder Christian Atsu Twasam has been pronounced dead following an earthquake that happened in Turkey a fortnight ago.

The 31-year-old was initially reported to have been found under the rubles and taken to a hospital few hours after the unfortunate incident but reports later indicated it was a mistake identity.

As a result, some members of his family and his agent Nana Sekyere flew to Turkey to team up with his club in search of him.

Although, some people were found alive earlier this week, which gave hopes to Atsu’s survival, the former Premier League player could not survive.

During the recent search, Atsu’s shoes were the first among other belongings to be found. Later, the search and rescue team found his passport and other belongings which were confirmed to be his by his agent.

He was pronounced dead early hours of Saturday by the Turkish media and an official release is expected from his club and management in the coming hours.

Atsu returned to Europe last year after joining Turkish top-flight side Hatayspor from Saudi Pro League outfit Al Raed as a free agent.

He signed a one-year contract and was in negotiations for a contract extension following an impressive season in the Turkish Super Lig.

Atsu, who was product of Right to Dream Academy in Ghana, began his career in Europe with Porto, also spending a season on loan at Rio Ave. In 2013, he was signed by Chelsea for £3.5 million, who subsequently loaned him to Vitesse Arnhem, Everton, AFC Bournemouth and Málaga.

After spending the 2016–17 season on loan at Newcastle United, he completed a permanent transfer to the club in May 2017.

A full international with over 60 caps since his debut in 2012, Atsu represented Ghana at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

He helped the team finish as runners-up at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, in which he also won Player of the Tournament and Goal of the Tournament.