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Afreximbank to Support in Sub-Sovereign Governments Investments in Africa

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Zanamwe

Mr. Zanamwe presented a series of instruments and products developed by Afreximbank to assist sub-sovereign governments in identifying business and trade opportunities

KISUMU, Kenya, June 10, 2023/APO Group/ — 

The hosting of the 29th session of the Executive Committee of the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (http://www.UCLGA.org) at Ciala Resorts in Kisumu, Kenya, offered the opportunity to organize a workshop on June 2nd, 2023 for the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to address the leaders of Subnational and local governments of Africa.

The workshop was organized at the initiative of Kisumu County Government in partnership with UCLG Africa and Afreximbank. Were in attendance leaders of subnational and local governments, including the governors and deputy governors of the Lake Region Economic Bloc, the members of the UCLG Africa Executive Committee and Secretariat, and the officials and officers of Kisumu County government.

The Governor of Kisumu, Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyongo’o highlighted the importance of the creation of this initiative. “We appreciated the possibility of the Afreximbank coming on board to support subnational governments. The leadership of UCLG Africa have for long time battled on this, and hence set up the the Africa Territorial Trade and Investment Agency (ATIA). This contributes to this opportunity today that we welcome to this platform Afreximbank. Together we believe Africa will be develop”, he said. 

Every development is local. It means that, if you want to grow, you start locally. We created ATIA, because we wanted that Subnational Local Governments of Africa participated  in the realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). UCLG Africa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Afeximbank to improve the level of investments at the sub-sovereign level of governance have investments brought by the bank or to convince people with investments to get in to our Subnational Local Governments Network. So that this become a changing agents for the development of this continent”, said Mr. Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, Secretary General of UCLG Africa. 

Notice that the MoU signed between Afreximbank and UCLG Africa, contains a detailed Implementation Plan that will ensure the ideals of the collaboration to improve the governance and economic conditions of Sub-Sovereign Governments are achieved and that a Data Management System is developed to boost economic development in African Regions.  

Dr. Gainmore Zanamwe, Acting Director, Intra-African Trade Bank, made a presentation of key Afreximbank financing products of interest for Sub-Sovereign Governments. “We want to work with you to help you to build your development projects. And for those who have already launched their projects, we can support you to find investors. Because we do believe that, business is actually done at the subnational level”, he explained.  

Mr. Zanamwe presented a series of instruments and products developed by Afreximbank to assist sub-sovereign governments in identifying business and trade opportunities and supporting the design of a portfolio of bankable projects that would participate in changing the sustainable development trajectory of sub sovereign governments in Africa.  

Among these instruments and products Mr. Zanamwe highlighted the following:

Afreximbank Project Preparation Facility (APPF) : A key instrument through which the Bank supports the development of projects from conceptualization to a stage of their bankability in order to attract the attention of investors;

The leadership of UCLG Africa have for long time battled on this, and hence set up the the Africa Territorial Trade and Investment Agency (ATIA)

African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Adjustment Fund: The Fund supports African countries and the private sector to effectively participate in the new trading environment established under the AfCFTA.

Transit Guarantee Scheme: That facilitates the movement of goods within the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) or throughout the continent using a single technology that enables continental bonds to promote intra-African trade under the AfCFTA

Industrial Parks and Special Economic Zones, to facilitate the emergence and expansion of Industrial Parks (IPs) and Export Processing Zones (EPZs), focusing on light manufacturing and agro-processing. 

Export Trading Companies: address institutional market failure by providing market intelligence, aggregating products, finding markets and assisting manufacturers, SMEs and informal cross-border traders to participate in international trade. 

The Africa Trade Gateway : Internet Platform dedicated to African International Trade at Africa.

-Intra-African Investment Finance: focus on financing promotion of Foreign Direct Investment or African Direct Investment. It supports setting up and/or expansion of businesses by an entity from one African country in another African country

Intra-African Investment Guarantee : which purpose is to protect investors against risk events that may impair their investment rights or earnings

Contracting Related Guarantees: To reissue a wide range of specialized guarantees (i.e. bid bonds, performance bonds, advance payment guarantees and retention bonds) issued by FIs to African construction/contracting companies to conduct construction services in other African countries.

Participants expressed interest to receive support for Afreximbank to write banckable projects and to be get access to investors. During the very lively debate that followed Afreximbank’s presentation, Mr. George Mwanza, Mayor of Chapati City (Zambia) and vice-President of the Network of African Young Elected Local Officials (YELO), advocated for a « strong involvement of Youth and Women in the financings of projects, but only through UCLG Africa, as delivery and implementing partner of Afreximbank ». 

After having commented and responded to questions raised during the debate, M. Zanamwe extended an invitation to the workshop attendees to participate in the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2023), to be held in Cairo, Egypt from 9 to 15 November 2023.  

After the historic success of Africities 9, held in Kisumu, in May 2022, summit that welcomed 13 000 participants, a new milestone will be the organization of the Kisumu Investment Forum to be held in October 2023 as the result of the ongoing study on Local Economic Development  of the Kisumu County co-organized by the Kisumu County government, Afreximbank, and UCLG Africa. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa).

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Canon releases LI7070SAC / LI7070SAM Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensors

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The LI7070SAC can capture full-HD video even in low-illumination environments measuring 0.08 lux, whereas the LI7070SAM operates at a minimum of 0.04 lux

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 25, 2024/APO Group/ — 

Canon Inc. (Canon-CNA.com) and Canon Marketing Japan Inc. announced today the release of two new 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensors, the LI7070SAC (color) and LI7070SAM (monochrome), with approximately 2.12 (1,936 x 1,096) effective megapixels, for security, industrial, and medical uses. They boast enhanced near-infrared shooting capability, which is increasingly in demand, in addition to a high-dynamic-range capturing function for operating in environments with significant contrasts between light and dark, and high-sensitivity shooting capability under low-illumination environments.

In recent years, there has been growing demand for near-infrared imaging capabilities applied to surveillance cameras and industrial cameras. Accordingly, there has been an increase in uses for CMOS sensors with near-infrared capability including monitoring traffic and industrial applications. The near-infrared sensitivity of the LI7070SAC has been increased by roughly 2.4 times [1] in comparison to the LI7050 [2] (released in October 2020) which similarly measures 1/1.8 inches and features approximately 2.12 effective megapixels. This enables monitoring in dark environments which cannot be performed by the naked eye. The sensors can also be applied for industrial usages such as inspections in dark areas and medical uses such as fluorescein angiography.

In addition to the aforementioned near-infrared capability, both sensors feature an HDR drive mode that extends 120dB through a double exposure method which layers two images with differing exposure times. This makes it possible to capture images in high quality while restricting overexposure and crushed shadows in conditions where there is a large difference in brightness, such as when illuminating a light for inspections within tunnels. The sensor achieves a range of 75dB even when operating during normal drive operation.

The outstanding low-illumination shooting capability of these sensors further enhances their applicability. Although the sensor size is compact, the pixel composition has been engineered to enable high sensitivity, while suppressing noise level. The LI7070SAC can capture full-HD video even in low-illumination environments measuring 0.08 lux, whereas the LI7070SAM operates at a minimum of 0.04 lux [3], making them particularly suitable for nighttime surveillance of public facilities, roads, and transportation facilities, etc., in addition to cameras equipped to underwater drones and cameras used in microscopes, which require compact image sensors with a high degree of sensitivity.


[1] The quantum efficiency of the LI7070SAC at a wavelength of 850 nm (near-infrared wavelength) is 33%, whereas that of LI7050 is 14%.

[2] Colour sensor only

[3] The estimated illumination level from a full moon is 0.3 lux, while that of a crescent moon is 0.01 lux.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

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Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) Leads Key Discussions on Sustainable Development and Green Finance at Conference of the Parties (COP29)

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On November 18, ICD organized a session on financing women and youth-led businesses in post-conflict regions

BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 25, 2024/APO Group/ — 

The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) (www.ICD-ps.org), part of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, hosted several high-level sessions at COP29 in Baku, focusing on sustainable economic development, climate finance, and the private sector’s role in green growth.

On November 18, ICD organized a session on financing women and youth-led businesses in post-conflict regions. Eng. Hani Sani Sonbol, Acting CEO of ICD, emphasized the importance of inclusive financing for long-term peace. Remarks were also made by Ms. Nigar Arpadarai, COP29 High-Level Champion, and Dr. Emin Huseynov, Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan. The panel featured experts such as Dr. Sahar Nasr, Executive Director of the Zakat Fund, Ms. Jhale Hajiyeva, Executive Director of AMFA Azerbaijan, Dr Elvin Afandi, Division Manager of ICD and Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev, President of AMCHAM addressing the barriers women and youth face in accessing finance.

ICD also hosted two other key sessions. On November 16, a panel discussed leveraging multilateral climate funds to support sustainable projects through public-private partnerships, featuring experts like Dr. Mohammed Alyami, General Manager of the Development Effectiveness Office at ICD, and David A. Dodd, CEO of the International Sustainability Resilience Center. On November 19, a session explored how financial institutions can promote green finance, with participants including Dr. Fatih Yilmaz, Senior Fellow at KAPSAR,Mr. Shahin Mahmudzade, Executive Director at the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, Dr Elvin Afandi , Division Manager of ICD and Mr Nabil Kadri, Managing Director of BNDES.

ICD’s participation at COP29 highlights its commitment to advancing sustainable development, green finance to private sector, and empowering marginalized business communities. Through collaborative initiatives, ICD continues to drive the role of the private sector in achieving global sustainability goals.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD).

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HELI Aims for #1 Position in Middle East and Africa with New Forklift Models and Strategic Investments

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Company Expands Regional Footprint, Hosts 40 Regional Partners at Exclusive Distributors’ Conference in Dubai

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 22, 2024/APO Group/ — 

HELI (www.HELIChina.net), China’s leading forklift manufacturer and a global player in the material handling industry, has unveiled three new forklift models at the opening of its UAE distributor Hala’s state-of-the-art showroom and workshop in Dubai Industrial City.

This launch marks another significant step in HELI’s ongoing expansion in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, as the company continues its drive to become the leading forklift brand across the region.

HELI’s mission, Lifting the Future, is driven by a vision to become a global leader, and a singular aim to be ranked among the world’s Top 5 forklift manufacturers. Founded in 1958, HELI has consistently delivered innovative, intelligent logistics solutions, establishing itself as a global first-class integrator of industrial vehicles and intelligent logistics systems. With a people-oriented approach and a commitment to repaying society through high-quality products, HELI’s brand proposition—Empower the World—reflects the company’s dedication to empowering industries worldwide.

Ranked among the top ten forklift manufacturers globally since 2006, HELI’s streamlined strategies in capital, industrial, and innovation chains have fueled rapid growth. Today, HELI’s products are sold in over 150 countries, and in the MEA region, the company has already secured the leading position in 15 African countries, with an expanding presence in the Middle East. With continued investment in new product launches and strategic partnerships, HELI is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of becoming the leading forklift brand across the region.

The new HELI G Series 2.0-ton lithium battery forklift, specifically engineered for the beverage industry, was also introduced at the event. Building on the proven reliability and advanced technology of HELI’s G Series, this model incorporates several innovative features tailored to the unique demands of beverage logistics. These include a flexible adjustable cab height for enhanced operator visibility and safety, an intelligent steering system that prevents sharp turns for smoother operations, and an active safety protection system that decelerates or brakes when personnel approach danger zones, reducing workplace risks. Designed with beverage industry needs in mind, it includes features like single/double pallet forks and a 360-degree vision optimization system for better maneuverability.

The G3 Series forklifts, available in 2-3.5 Ton and 5-10 Ton models, offer key shared advantages that enhance efficiency, safety, and performance. Both models are energy-efficient, with the 2-3.5 Ton version reducing consumption by 15% and the 5-10 Ton featuring a low-noise system. They incorporate advanced safety features, such as pedestrian detection, AI-powered collision warnings, and an optional reversing camera, ensuring a safer work environment. Designed for high performance and reliability, both models require minimal maintenance and are built to handle demanding industrial tasks. The 2-3.5 Ton version offers an enhanced load capacity up to 4.5 meters, while the 5-10 Ton excels in climbing performance. Additionally, ergonomic features like reduced steering effort and low-noise operation improve operator comfort and productivity.

With the increasing focus on electrification, we are providing customers with clean energy alternatives that align with global sustainability goals

Together, the G3 Series forklifts deliver a reliable, cost-effective solution for businesses seeking safety, efficiency, and durability in their material handling equipment.

“These new models reflect HELI’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for sustainable and efficient material handling solutions in the region. With the increasing focus on electrification, we are providing customers with clean energy alternatives that align with global sustainability goals and empowering our partners to achieve #1 status in their respective markets,” said Guan Lei, General Manager of HELI Middle East FZCO.

During the showroom opening, Mathew Abraham, Managing Director of Hala, HELI’s UAE distributor, emphasized the potential of the partnership, noting, “With HELI’s world-class technology and our deep understanding of the regional market, we are well-positioned to offer comprehensive solutions, ensuring the highest standards of after-sales support and sustainability.”

HELI’s growth in the region is underscored by its ongoing investment in infrastructure. The company is currently leasing between 6,000 and 8,000 square meters of space in the Middle East to expand its service capabilities and provide quicker, localized support. These efforts are aligned with HELI’s strategic goals and reinforce its position as a key player in the material handling and logistics sectors.

At a closed-door distributors conference held this week, 40 partners from across the region gathered to discuss HELI’s product innovations and regional growth strategies. The conference highlighted the company’s vision for the future and its strong partnerships with regional distributors. The theme of the conference, “Together We Thrive, Limits We Defy,” reflected the shared ambition to work harder with determination, pushing past boundaries and striving for excellence.

Recent industry data from the World Industrial Truck Statistics (WITS) shows HELI’s growing presence in the UAE, where it is now the second-largest forklift brand. This growth, coupled with a rising shift toward electrification, further positions HELI as a leader in the MEA region. The company’s success in Africa, where it holds the #1 position in 15 countries, demonstrates the strength of its offering and its ability to meet local market needs.

Chen Xianyou, Vice General Manager of Anhui HELI Co., Ltd, emphasized, “Our continued investment in the MEA region is a testament to our long-term vision. We are focused on achieving sustainable growth, backed by our strong after-sales service network, and building lasting relationships with our regional partners.”

With its leadership position in China for 33 consecutive years and a growing footprint in the Middle East and Africa, HELI is poised to become a globally recognized brand in the material handling industry.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of HELI.

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