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TikTok Partners With African Union for Safer Online Spaces in Africa
TikTok has announced a partnership with the African Union Commission’s Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate (WGYD), dedicated to enhancing awareness of online safety among the youth, parents, educators, and guardians across Africa.
The collaboration comes at a critical time, responding to the pressing need for digital safety in light of the unique challenges confronting the continent.
Africa finds itself at a crucial digital juncture, witnessing the rapid expansion of social media platforms alongside mounting concerns for the protection of its younger populace. Recent regulatory scrutiny and the looming specter of potential bans underscore the imperative for proactive measures to ensure a secure online environment.
In light of these circumstances, TikTok and the African Union Commission (AUC) have joined forces to introduce the continent-wide #SaferTogether Campaign, designed to educate and engage young individuals, parents, educators, and community leaders on digital safety through in-app and on-ground initiatives.
This flagship, multi-year endeavor, inaugurated at the TikTok Safer Internet Summit in Accra, Ghana, and graced by distinguished government officials and regulators from across the continent, underscores the unwavering dedication of both TikTok and the AUC to digital literacy and safety.
TikTok places paramount importance on fostering a secure atmosphere, bolstering security measures, and collaborating with the AUC to champion the safety and empowerment of children in the digital sphere, thereby advancing the digitalization of Africa for the welfare of its youth. By uniting for discussions on a safer internet, TikTok and the AUC are steadfast in delivering valuable educational resources and guidelines to cultivate a positive and secure online experience for all stakeholders.
This initiative, which integrates in-app and on-ground endeavors, seeks to educate and empower communities on digital safety, aligning closely with the AUC’s focus on children’s safety in the digital realm and the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa. It encompasses a comprehensive in-app campaign featuring educational videos on internet safety, complemented by hashtag challenges and endorsements from content creators on safety practices.
Furthermore, TikTok and the AUC will disseminate “Digital Safety Toolkits” to assist educators and guardians in addressing critical digital safety concerns. These resources will be easily accessible on TikTok through a dedicated microsite, serving as an interactive guide to promote safer online behaviors.
Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, Government Relations & Public Policy Director at TikTok, Sub-Saharan Africa, underscored the strategic significance of this collaboration: “Our #SaferTogether partnership with the African Union Commission’s Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate underscores TikTok’s profound commitment to the diverse markets across Africa. Through initiatives such as our educational workshops and the development of comprehensive safety toolkits, we are dedicated to nurturing a digitally secure environment for all.”
In alignment with this sentiment, Ms. Prudence Nonkululeko Ngwenya, Director of the Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate at the African Union, commended the partnership as a pivotal stride towards empowering Africa’s youth and safeguarding their digital futures.
“The launch of the #SaferTogether campaign with TikTok aligns with the African Union’s ongoing endeavors to advocate for safe online experiences for young people in Africa, as well as their mental well-being through the 1 Million Next Level Initiative. While internet access can facilitate connectivity, enhance digital literacy, and broaden livelihood opportunities for children and young individuals, it is imperative that they are provided with a secure environment to reap the benefits of digital platforms.”
Through overarching frameworks and initiatives such as the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa and the 1 Million Next Level Initiative, the AUC aims not only to champion increased access to digital platforms for young individuals but also to promote their safe usage to address concerns related to unsafe internet practices. TikTok remains resolute in implementing effective security measures and empowering users with control over their accounts and content.
This commitment is mirrored in its comprehensive Community Guidelines and robust moderation policies, which advocate for a community-driven approach to safety by encouraging active user involvement in upholding community well-being. Users are urged to report any content that contravenes guidelines and engage with others in a respectful manner.
As TikTok and the African Union Commission embark on this collective journey, they reaffirm their joint pledge to cultivate a more inclusive, secure online community for the youth of Africa.
Through the fusion of technology and education, this partnership will equip young individuals with the tools and confidence necessary to navigate the intricacies of the digital realm with prudence and safety.
Kenya Hosts International Forum on Digital Trust and NPKI Advancements
In a bid to enhance digital trust and foster growth within the digital economy, a diverse group of ICT industry stakeholders from various countries have gathered in Nairobi for a two-day 2024 National Public Key Infrastructure Forum.
Hosted by the Communications Authority of Kenya, the event has attracted experts from Uganda, Cameroon, India, Cote d’Ivoire, South Africa, and Ghana to deliberate on strategies for unlocking digital opportunities securely across borders.
Themed “Building Trust in a Digital World: The Future of the NPKI,” the forum, scheduled for the 19th and 20th of March 2024, serves as a crucial platform for key players in the ICT sector, including the ICT Authority, responsible for issuing digital certification subscribers to government entities.
In a statement delivered on behalf of Eliud Owalo, the Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and Digital Economy, Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, emphasized the significance of fostering trust while promoting connectivity not only within Kenya but also among participating nations.
Addressing the audience, PS Kisiang’ani underscored the importance of securing digital infrastructure to pave the way for a thriving digital economy in Kenya, enabling citizens to leverage the vast opportunities presented by the digital realm.
The government’s commitment to expanding internet access was highlighted, with the rollout of 8,419 kilometers of fiber and 2,261 free Wi-Fi hotspots aimed at connecting more Kenyans to the online world.
PS Kisiang’ani called for increased collaboration within the cybersecurity sector to establish frameworks that facilitate secure digital transactions and platforms.
Philip Irode, Deputy Director of Information Security at the ICT Authority, stressed the need for collaboration among certification agencies to streamline the issuance and recognition of digital signatures, emphasizing the importance of mutual cooperation in ensuring the validity and security of digital transactions.
The National Public Key Infrastructure (NPKI) system, crucial for creating, storing, and distributing digital certificates to verify online identities, was highlighted as a key component in enhancing digital trust and security.
As more government services transition to digital platforms, the proper identification and verification of digital signatures have become paramount, with over 15,000 government services already accessible through the e-citizen platform.
Experts at the forum called for the development of standards by regulators and standardization bodies to promote harmonization and interoperability of digital innovations, emphasizing the importance of a secure and trusted digital ecosystem for sustainable growth in the global economy.
NCBA Group, Proparco Collaborate for Green Financing, Women’s Empowerment in Kenya
NCBA Group and Proparco on Monday announced a strategic partnership to facilitate green financing and promote women’s economic empowerment in Kenya.
NCBA Group, a prominent entity in the Kenyan financial services sector, has formalized a USD 50 million facility agreement with Proparco, a subsidiary of the AFD Group specializing in private sector development.
The funding will be channelled towards advancing NCBA’s “Change The Story” sustainability agenda.
Building on a longstanding association with the AFD Group, NCBA remains dedicated to enhancing its sustainability initiatives.
In 2023, the group launched the “Change The Story” platform, underpinned by five strategic pillars and a comprehensive set of fifteen commitments. Noteworthy among these commitments, pertinent to this collaboration, are endeavors to mobilize KES 30 billion for Green & Sustainable Financing, allocate a minimum of 30% of general services procurement expenditure to women and youth, and champion diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Furthermore, NCBA has unveiled an ambitious investment strategy to expand its footprint in Kenya, with a focus on better serving SMEs and corporate clients while fostering financial inclusion to combat inequality. Through the partnership with Proparco, NCBA Group will bolster sectoral investments in agriculture and manufacturing, and participate in the 2X Challenge—an initiative dedicated to promoting women in entrepreneurship and SMEs.
The 2X Challenge, initiated by international financial institutions in 2018, aims to enhance opportunities for women and amplify funding towards gender equality.
The project is poised to support over 1,600 MSMEs and SMEs within the framework of the Choose Africa initiative—a program by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Group designed to bolster African entrepreneurs. It is poised to contribute to Sustainable Development Goals 5 “Gender Equality,” 8 “Decent work and economic growth,” and 13 “Climate Action.”
Expressing gratitude to Proparco for their collaboration, John Gachora, the Group Managing Director of NCBA, emphasized the significance of cooperative efforts and strategic alliances in delivering value to stakeholders.
He added that the partnership will advance mutual objectives of sustainable economic development, green finance, women’s empowerment, and SME growth.
Aligned with its 2023-2027 Strategy, Proparco is actively engaging with NCBA to implement its sustainability agenda in Kenya, particularly focusing on green financing, women-led enterprises, and SMEs.
Echoing mutual goals and values with Proparco, Emmanuel Haye, Head of Financial Institutions Africa at Proparco, highlighted the shared commitment to addressing climate change through green initiatives and social disparities.
The collaboration is expected to bolster financial inclusion in Kenya, particularly benefiting women entrepreneurs, as the project qualifies for the 2X Challenge.
Tanzania to Open New Border Post with Rwanda to Boost Trade Relations
Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, January Makamba, has unveiled plans to establish a new border post with Rwanda in Tanzania’s Kyerwa district, Kagera Region.
This initiative is part of a series of measures aimed at enhancing ties between the two East African nations, with a focus on facilitating smoother trade operations.
Key Developments
The proposed border crossing aims to streamline business transactions between Tanzania and Rwanda, reducing reliance on the existing Rusumo border post. During his recent visit to Rwanda, Minister Makamba led a delegation comprising officials from various key ministries and parastatals, emphasizing the importance of strengthening trade and energy collaborations.
President Paul Kagame of Rwanda reiterated the strong bond between the two countries, highlighting their shared geographical, historical, and cultural connections.
Trade Insights
Rwanda is a significant user of the Dar es Salaam port, with a substantial portion of its cargo passing through this gateway. Tanzania has offered strategic land parcels in Isaka and Kwala for the establishment of dry ports, aiming to boost trade activities and foster economic growth. Both nations are committed to expanding their trade partnership, with a focus on agricultural cooperation and infrastructure development.
Efforts are underway to formalize agreements that will enhance connectivity, trade facilitation, and mutual investments between Rwanda and Tanzania. The collaboration between the two countries is set to strengthen further, with a shared vision of addressing common challenges and improving the well-being of their citizens.
Regional Integration
Rwanda and Tanzania, as members of the East African Community, are actively working towards deeper socioeconomic and political integration within the region, fostering a climate of collaboration and mutual progress.
Charting a Sustainable Future: Empowering Africa’s Fisheries with AFADATA
In the heart of Nairobi, Kenya, on March 7th and 8th, 2024, a gathering of minds convened at the AU-IBAR offices. This assembly wasn’t just any meeting—it was a meticulously crafted training program orchestrated by AU-IBAR, with backing from the European Union’s FishGov 2 initiative, aimed at bolstering fisheries management across Africa.
Representatives from diverse AU Member States, including Directors of Fisheries from nations like Libya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan, alongside stakeholders from the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in Ghana, gathered to dive deep into the newly minted Africa Fisheries and Aquaculture Data Repository (AFADATA).
The scene was set by esteemed speakers like Prof. Noble Asare from UCC and Dr. Huyam Salih, Director of AU-IBAR. Prof. Asare emphasized the pivotal role of robust data management systems, hailing AFADATA as a game-changer in fisheries governance. Dr. Salih echoed these sentiments, underscoring AU-IBAR’s dedication to progress in Africa’s fisheries sector.
Under the guidance of experts, attendees delved into AFADATA’s intricacies. From database architecture to practical data handling, each session aimed to arm participants with the skills needed to wield this powerful tool effectively.
The outcome was tangible—a network of empowered stakeholders, equipped with the knowledge to harness AFADATA for sustainable fisheries management. The journey didn’t end there. Recommendations were made, paving the way for future collaboration and data-sharing initiatives.
As the event drew to a close, laptops were handed over symbolically, embodying the collective commitment to enhancing data capabilities. Participants left with a shared vision: to leverage AFADATA for the betterment of Africa’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
This workshop marked not just a milestone, but a beginning—a step towards a future where informed decisions drive sustainable development and conservation efforts across the continent’s marine resources. With AFADATA integrated into AU-IBAR’s systems, the path forward is clearer than ever, promising a brighter future for Africa’s aquatic ecosystems.
Equity Group, the largest financial institution in East and Central Africa, has solidified its global standing as one of the most robust banking brands, achieving impressive rankings in Brand Finance’s 2024 assessments of Brand Strength and Brand Value.
In its third consecutive inclusion in the Brand Finance Banking 500 rankings, Equity has ascended from the 4th position in 2023 to the 2nd position among the World’s Top 10 Strongest Banking Brands. This significant advancement is underscored by Equity’s remarkable Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 92.5 out of 100, meriting an elite AAA+ brand strength rating. Notably, this represents a 0.1 point enhancement over its 2022 debut ranking.
Equity has also witnessed a notable increase in its brand value, with a rise of USD 22 million from last year’s valuation of USD 428 million to USD 450 million (equivalent to Kes. 64 billion). This places Equity at the tenth position for the most valuable banking brand in Africa.
Commenting on this achievement, Dr. James Mwangi, Managing Director and CEO of Equity Group, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “We are pleased to observe our consistent progression towards being acknowledged as one of the most robust financial brands globally. Our emphasis on robust governance structures, adherence to core values, dedication to customer-centricity, performance-driven approach, culture of excellence, and effective execution continues to underpin the sustainable evolution and enhancement of our brand. This recognition as the 2nd strongest banking brand globally reaffirms the relevance of our mission to transform lives, uphold dignity, and broaden opportunities for wealth creation for our customers, industry, and stakeholders. It serves as a testament to the aspirations we are steadfastly committed to realizing. Furthermore, we are gratified to note that four of the top ten strongest banks in the ranking hail from Africa. As we persist in aligning our business with our purpose and supporting the daily needs of our customers, our dedication to innovation and excellence propels us to redefine benchmarks and spearhead transformative solutions in the financial sector.”
Each year, Brand Finance, a leading brand valuation consultancy, subjects 5,000 of the most prominent brands to rigorous assessment and publishes nearly 100 reports, ranking brands across various sectors and regions. The annual Brand Finance Banking 500 ranking encompasses the World’s Top 500 most valuable and strongest banking brands.
While trust remains a pivotal factor influencing customer preferences in banking services, Brand Finance’s research emphasizes the significance of articulating a clear sense of purpose and delivering products and services in accordance with customers’ preferences regarding accessibility.
Regarded as the industry’s foremost authoritative report, the Brand Finance Banking 500 report evaluates the brand value of global financial institutions through a comprehensive analysis of quantitative and qualitative metrics, including brand strength, brand loyalty rates, and revenue forecasts.
Equity has distinguished itself in the banking sector as a purpose-driven entity committed to uplifting lives, fostering dignity, and expanding avenues for wealth creation not only for its clientele but also for the communities it serves.
Dr. James Mwangi further remarked, “Our insights underscore that businesses guided by purpose and values are poised for sustained long-term viability, enabling them to thrive even amid challenging circumstances.”
Equity’s enduring resilience, adaptability, and propensity for self-disruption have propelled its success across diverse operating landscapes. Through the provision of pertinent and innovative products and services, proactive stakeholder engagement, and adoption of progressive operational methodologies, the institution consistently enhances the value it delivers to its customers and stakeholders.
In 2023, Equity’s subsidiaries, including Equity BCDC, Equity Bank Rwanda, and Equity Bank Tanzania, exhibited commendable performance improvements. The Group remains steadfast in its commitment to South Sudan, evidenced by the introduction of new lending products, while concurrently strengthening its presence in Uganda, where it has garnered significant market share and relevance.
Reflecting on the 2024 rankings, David Haigh, Chairman & CEO of Brand Finance, remarked, “As the world’s leading banking brands achieve new heights, China’s mega-banks continue to dominate the top echelons of the brand value ranking. Another noteworthy observation from our 2024 data is the increasing prominence of local banks in terms of brand strength, surpassing their larger counterparts. While dominant brands thrive in singular markets with limited competition, banks expanding into multiple markets may enhance their brand value but risk diluting brand strength.”
Brand Finance defines brand value as the net economic advantage that a brand owner could derive by licensing the brand in the open market. It’s important to note that this differs from the valuation of a company’s assets. Brand strength, on the other hand, is defined as the effectiveness of a brand’s performance on intangible measures relative to its competitors
Kenya Breweries Ltd (KBL) brand – Tusker Cider recently hosted a successful event at Social House over the weekend, marking a significant milestone in the creation of enduring and remarkable experiences.
The event, which took place on the 9th of March, exemplified Tusker Cider’s unwavering dedication to fostering connections and delivering exceptional entertainment through its esteemed Cheers to Our Real Ones campaign.
The evening was characterized by a vibrant atmosphere, with attendees delighting in the artistic allure of caricature drawings and engaging in a paint-and-sip session, all the while immortalizing cherished moments through the skilled lenses of photographers.
Enhancing the ambiance, the night was further enriched by enthralling performances from a talented saxophonist and the lively rhythms of DJ Sir M, who effectively maintained high spirits and kept the audience engaged throughout the event.
Expressing his elation at the success of the Cheers to Our Real Ones campaign, Victor Adada, Shopper Manager at Tusker Cider said that the event at Social House exemplified their dedication to creating enduring experiences and nurturing authentic connections among their valued consumers.
By blending creativity, entertainment, and responsible enjoyment, we are steadfast in our commitment to setting new standards in delivering unforgettable moments for our cherished patrons. Here’s to responsible celebration and treasuring the moments that truly hold significance.
The goal of the Cheers to Our Real Ones Campaign is to honor consumers and their companions, providing them with opportunities to revel in celebration and enjoy quality time with their loved ones.
Leading master-planned real estate developer Superior Homes has officially launched a Kshs 14 billion master-planned gated community in Lukenya, Machakos County, that seeks to offer an appealing live, work, and play environment for those seeking a lifestyle away from the urban sprawl. The development is a 5-minute drive from their completed Greenpark Estate development and is the third master-planned gated community being undertaken by the institutional developer.
Dubbed ‘Lukenya Plains’, the expansive 172-acre development will consist of modern and uniquely designed housing options and have regulated self-build plots for those who wish to build their own homes.
Underpinning the development will be a strong Deed of Covenants and rules and regulations to ensure the prosperity of the community and will have a key focus on green energy and sustainability, which includes the use of solar, water recycling, sewer treatment, and effective garbage management to have as little waste as possible.
The focus on rules and regulations, plus green development, is part of the Superior Homes strategy to develop robust communities that have as little impact on the environment as possible.
Speaking during the launch, Superior Homes Kenya Chief Executive Officer Shiv Arora reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to innovating, improving, and inspiring sustainable living in East Africa through their master-planned developments.
“The successful completion of over 700 houses at Greenpark Estate, which is a comprehensive master-planned estate with schools, the Arcadia retail center, and Sundowner Hotel, has presented an increasing demand in master-planned communities, and we are looking to fill this gap through this new project. As a company, we always strive to align with the changing market needs, and Lukenya Plains showcases our commitment to continue meeting the needs of our clients,’’ said Superior Homes Kenya CEO Shiv Arora.
Lukenya Plains is at the Daystar University junction, off Mombasa Road, and is a 15-minute drive from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and a 25-minute drive from the Nairobi Central Business District. Residents will also enjoy convenient shopping around Athi River, Kitengela, and at the Arcadia at Greenpark retail center, which is only a 5-minute drive from the development.
“With a 20-year proven track record of delivering to our clients. Superior Homes continues to lead the way in shaping the landscape of East Africa’s real estate sector. We continue to be the most trusted provider of residential master-planned developments in Kenya through our unique and innovative product offerings within the real estate sector. I am immensely proud of our focus on sustainability and green development, and the steps that Superior Homes has taken to bring sustainability, good governance, and controlled developments to thousands of home buyers” said Ian Henderson, Managing Director of Superior Homes.
Lukenya Plains provides easy access to infrastructural, recreational, and social amenities around the environs of Machakos, Athi River, Kitengela, along Mombasa Road, and Nairobi. The development is set to follow a similar design to Greenpark Estate, which won the Best Development in East Africa Award at the CNBC International Property Awards. This new project adds to Superior Homes’ portfolio, which has featured master-planned gated developments, hotels, and holiday homes in the past 20 years.
Village Capital Call for Startups in Africa Focused on Greentech
Village Capital, with support from Moody’s Foundation has launched Greentech 2024: The Future of Sustainability, an investment-readiness accelerator.
The program is designed to advance innovative and sustainable solutions, actively contributing towards building resilience and mitigating the effects of climate change across Africa.
The program is part of a broader global effort running in Latin America and Asia as well, that will support and scale startups working to address the effects of climate change by mitigating environmental damage, improving agricultural practices and nutrition, minimizing waste and pollution, preserving and protecting natural resources, and access to water, sanitation, and universal health.
Geographically, Africa program will focus on startups from Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa.
The latest UN Global Sustainable Development Report (GSDR 2023) reveals that only two out of 36 targets for 2030 are on track. Climate action and biodiversity are not only falling behind but regressing due to the slow implementation of solutions. Transformational change requires decisive action from individuals, businesses, academia, and science, not just governments and international actors.
Applications close on May 10, 2024. Full details and eligibility criteria can be found here.
The call for applications is open to regional startups that are building solutions to accelerate the shift towards sustainable development, focusing on areas such as:
- Cleantech and Climate Tech: Tech solutions addressing climate change and enhancing environmental quality.
- Agtech and Food Security: Tech-driven initiatives to develop nutritious food, improve efficiency in agriculture, increase yields, reduce costs, and boost sustainability.
- Circular and Regenerative Economy: Tech innovations minimizing waste, pollution, and emissions through sustainable resource use.
- Natural Resource Management: Tech-enabled sustainable management of land, water, air, and wildlife, addressing challenges like degraded land, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
- Water, Sanitation, and Health: Tech companies providing solutions for clean water access, sanitation, hygiene, and overall health improvement.
From August through September 2024, the selected entrepreneurs will meet for three online workshops. The curriculum is focused on helping them develop the networks and tools they need to scale their impact and uplift their communities.
They will work closely with industry experts, investors, ecosystem partners, and an investment analyst who will coach them 1:1 on building a financial model, identifying unit economics, and using financial metrics to drive both business and investor diligence.
All startups that apply to the program will be invited to join Abaca, Village Capital’s online global network that helps entrepreneurs articulate how ready they are for investment for their next big expansion. The network provides a diagnostic tool and matches entrepreneurs with relevant investors and resources.