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Canon Central and North Africa Unveils Groundbreaking Technology with Immersive Experience at GITEX Africa 2024

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2 years ago

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Canon Central

Canon’s participation in GITEX Africa is a testament to the company’s commitment to getting closer to its customers and bringing cutting-edge technology with hands-on experience

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, May 30, 2024/APO Group/ — 

Canon Central and North Africa (www.Canon-CNA.com), a global leader in imaging solutions, makes its debut at GITEX Africa 2024, the largest technology and startup event on the continent happening from 29 – 31 May in Marrakech, Morocco. Canon’s participation at GITEX Africa is set to inspire creativity and innovation, forge valuable partnerships and relationships, and enhance the exchange of knowledge by demonstrating its entire ecosystem of consumer and business products and solutions.

‘WORLD UNSEEN’ EXHIBITION – A FIRST FOR AFRICA

A key highlight of Canon’s participation is the debut of its ‘World Unseen’ campaign in Africa. This is a unique photography exhibition designed to enable people with sight loss to better engage with the visual world. It also challenges sighted individuals to see imagery through different lenses.

The ‘World Unseen’ campaign is a groundbreaking initiative that embodies Canon’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in the creative arts field. By offering a sensory-rich experience, we aim to change how both sighted and visually impaired individuals engage with photography, making it an immersive and inclusive art form. The exclusive unveiling of the “World Unseen” exhibition at GITEX, led by Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director & Amine Djouahra, B2B Business Unit Director at Canon Central & North Africa, was inaugurated by Her Excellency Ms. Aawatif Hayar, Minister of Solidarity, Social Inclusion, and Family, alongside Mr. Hamid Nabil, the first blind Moroccan student to earn a Ph.D.

Her Excellency Aawatif Hayar, Minister of Solidarity, Social Inclusion, and Family in Morocco, highlighted the importance of the exhibition with the following statement:

“It is an immense honor to be here today at the launch of Canon’s World Unseen photography exhibition. This groundbreaking event marks a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and reshaping how we perceive the world, particularly for those with sight loss. By providing visually impaired and partially sighted individuals with an opportunity to engage with photography through elevated prints, audio descriptions, soundscapes, and braille, Canon is not only making art accessible but also challenging societal perceptions. This exhibition exemplifies how, by adapting our surroundings and approaches, we can remove barriers and empower everyone to participate fully in life. It invites us all to experience images from a different perspective, fostering empathy and understanding, and it stands as a testament to the profound impact that art and technology can have on personal development and social inclusion.”

The campaign believes that photography is an incredibly powerful medium that can push the imagination. It is designed for everyone- blind, partially sighted, and sighted – by transforming how we all experience photography. This exhibition features works from world-renowned photographers and Canon ambassadors Muhammed Muheisen and Yagazie Emezi, from the MENA region. Visitors will experience photography through elevated prints, audio descriptions, soundscapes, and braille for a tactile connection with the powerful images and stories they tell.

According to WHO data, 2.2 billion people have some form of visual impairment globally (https://apo-opa.co/4582Ed9), which puts up barriers to appreciating photography. The ‘World Unseen’ exhibition removes these barriers by offering a unique, accessible, and immersive way to experience and enjoy photography.

Click here to learn more: https://apo-opa.co/4aBBFI8

DEMONSTRATING CANON’S CUSTOMER-CENTRIC INNOVATION 

Canon invites visitors to GITEX Africa to experience this unique, inclusive exhibition

Participation in the event not only demonstrates Canon’s commitment to contributing to the continent’s digital transformation and economic growth, but also provides a unique opportunity to showcase its products and solutions, as well as demonstrate how it is actively contributing to sustainable growth and education initiatives on the continent. 

“Canon Central and North Africa’s participation at GITEX Africa is a testament to understanding and addressing the unique needs of the African region. We are very excited to showcase our wide ecosystem including the latest cutting-edge technologies, providing an immersive and interactive experience for attendees. We have an incredible range of innovative solutions that cater to various industries and applications. These include the wide range of EOS R System cameras & lenses, multicamera technology, and advanced printing solutions. Our goal is to inspire creativity, foster meaningful connections and drive technology advancement across the continent,” says Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director, Canon Central & North Africa

Conference attendees have the chance to explore unique experiential zones that showcase Canon’s offerings, providing an immersive experience that allows participants to interact with cutting-edge technology.As a brand with six offices across Africa offering diverse expertise, Canon has ensured that at GITEX, its entire expertise will be on-ground for partners and end users, fortifying our closer-to-customer strategy.  

The Photography Application Zone offers the complete input-to-output technology Canon provides, allowing visitors to discover the mirrorless range of cameras and lenses and experience firsthand the precision and versatility of these state-of-the-art imaging tools, as well as explore the range of Canon photo printers. This zone aims to engage photography enthusiasts and professionals by providing them with the tools and inspiration to capture stunning images with unparalleled quality.

The Video Zone features captivating live demonstrations of Canon’s PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera range. This interactive experience highlights the advanced capabilities of the PTZ cameras showcasing their potential in various applications, from broadcast and live events to security and surveillance.

The Workspace Zone features a diverse range of products tailored to enhance productivity in both home offices and small to medium-sized businesses. Visitors can explore Canon’s MAXIFY and color laser printers, as well as B2B offerings such as the imagePRESS series, Uniflow, and PRISMA solutions. These B2B offerings will aid in document digitization and automation of processes, demonstrating how these products can streamline workflow and improve efficiency in work environments.

The Education Zone features the company’s education initiatives, highlighting Canon’s approach to education on the continent, which aligns with Canon’s corporate philosophy, Kyosei, a Japanese concept meaning living and working together for the common good. This zone will demonstrate how we bring to life our commitment to sustainability, how we work together, and our desire to create an environment for everyone to thrive and grow. Our dedicated team focuses on six programmes under the umbrella of Canon’s World of Education: the Miraisha Programme, Canon Academy Juniors, Canon Academy Photo, Canon Academy Video, Canon Print Hub, and the Canon Student Development Programme.

Amine Djouahra, B2B Business Unit Director, Canon Central and North Africa, expressed his enthusiasm upon Canon’s participation, “GITEX Africa 2024 is an incredible platform for us to connect with our valued partners and potential customers from across the African continent. This event represents a remarkable intersection of innovation and collaboration where we introduce cutting-edge technology while celebrating the strength of our local connections. These zones are designed to demonstrate our latest innovations and allow participants to interact with our latest technology. Our goal is to provide hands-on and interactive experiences that inspire creativity, forge valuable connections, and drive technological advancement throughout the region,”.

Canon’s participation in GITEX Africa is a testament to the company’s commitment to getting closer to its customers and bringing cutting-edge technology with hands-on experience. It serves as a strategic move to strengthen the company’s ever-growing presence in the African region.

Canon invites visitors to GITEX Africa to experience this unique, inclusive exhibition.

For more information, please visit Canon’s stands at 1B-30, Hall 1 and 17D-10 Hall 17 at GITEX Africa 2024.

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

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Sheraton Nouakchott marks the entry of Marriott International in Mauritania

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49 minutes ago

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April 10, 2026

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Nouakchott

As Mauritania’s cultural and economic heart, Nouakchott offers visitors a glimpse into the serene beauty and rich heritage that define this remarkable Northwest African nation

We are proud to have brought Marriott International to Mauritania with the opening of Sheraton Nouakchott, the first internationally operated and branded hotel in the country

NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania, April 10, 2026/APO Group/ –Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s (www.Marriott.com) portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands, recently celebrated the opening of Sheraton Nouakchott Hotel (https://apo-opa.co/4t3YGO4), marking the entry of Marriott International into a new territory, Mauritania. Since opening its doors, Sheraton Nouakchott has, positioned itself as a new hub for business, events and leisure in the Mauritanian capital.

 

Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, is a coastal city where tradition and modernity meet. Nestled between the vast Sahara and the Atlantic Ocean, it serves as a gateway to the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes, from golden dunes and tranquil oases to rugged coastlines and untouched desert plains. As Mauritania’s cultural and economic heart, Nouakchott offers visitors a glimpse into the serene beauty and rich heritage that define this remarkable Northwest African nation.

Ideally located near iconic landmarks such as the Marché Capitale and the National Museum of Mauritania, as well as Nouakchott’s beaches and fishing port — and just a short distance from the desert — Sheraton Nouakchott offers an ideal base from which to discover the destination.

“We are proud to have brought Marriott International to Mauritania with the opening of Sheraton Nouakchott, the first internationally operated and branded hotel in the country. Since welcoming our first guests, the hotel has quickly established itself as a destination for both travellers and the local community. This milestone underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences in emerging markets, while celebrating the culture and character of each destination,” said Sandra Schulze‑Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select & Midscale Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International.

Local design inspiration

Traditional crafts, from wood carving to metalwork, are woven throughout the hotel’s materials and furnishings, creating spaces that feel both rooted and refined. Every detail tells a story of local artistry, heritage and place, offering guests an immersive experience inspired by Mauritania’s cultural and natural beauty.

Inspired by the legendary landmarks along the Trans‑Saharan trade route, the hotel’s design blends regional heritage with contemporary elegance. The circular ceiling of Feast restaurant draws inspiration from the Richat Structure, also known as the Eye of Africa. Earthy tones and organic materials reference the dramatic landscapes of the Adrar Mountains, while patterns inspired by Chinguetti and Oualata are reinterpreted throughout guest rooms, public spaces and Bene restaurant.

Meeting spaces echo the stone architecture of Tichitt, one of West Africa’s oldest towns and a historic caravan hub.

Guest rooms and suites with local charm

Sheraton Nouakchott features 200 spacious guest rooms and suites, including two Presidential Suites, combining contemporary comfort with subtle local touches. All rooms are equipped with the latest technology and Sheraton signature amenities, including the iconic Sheraton Sleep Experience.

The Sheraton Club offers Marriott Bonvoy Elite members and Club guests an elevated, all‑day experience, with curated food and beverage offerings, premium amenities, enhanced connectivity and a private environment designed for both productivity and relaxation.

Local flavours meet international influence

The hotel features two restaurants, a Lobby Bar and a Pool Bar. Feast, the all‑day dining restaurant, serves locally inspired and international dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Bene offers an immersive Italian dining experience in a warm, inviting setting. The Lobby Bar provides a relaxed meeting point from morning coffee to evening gatherings, while the Pool Bar offers refreshing drinks and light bites by the outdoor pool.

 

Facilities offering a resort feel in the heart of the city

Despite its central urban location, Sheraton Nouakchott delivers a resort‑like atmosphere, centred around an expansive outdoor pool. Guests can maintain their fitness routines in the fully equipped fitness centre — featuring separate floors for women and men, hammam and sauna — or enjoy the outdoor tennis court. The Sheraton Spa features three treatment rooms, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration or meetings.

Meetings & events curated to perfection

Sheraton Nouakchott offers more than 2,600 square metres of flexible Meetings & Events space, including a Grand Ballroom, a Ballroom and four additional meeting rooms. A signature Sheraton Community Table sits at the heart of the hotel, providing a welcoming space for informal meetings, remote work and collaboration. A dedicated events team ensures seamless delivery from concept to execution.

Gatherings by Sheraton

In line with Sheraton’s global community‑centred approach, Sheraton Nouakchott hosts Gatherings by Sheraton, curated weekly experiences designed around enrichment, renewal and local stories. Guests and locals can take part in Mauritanian mixology sessions using local mint tea and fruits, or storytelling evenings inspired by Saharan traditions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..

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African Energy Chamber (AEC) Supports Perenco Partnership to Advance Industry 4.0 Skills in Central Africa

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7 hours ago

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April 10, 2026

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African Energy Chamber

The African Energy Chamber welcomes Perenco Cameroon and Perenco Gabon’s partnership with UCAC-ICAM to launch an Industry 4.0 lab, advancing local skills development and strengthening Africa’s industrial future

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 9, 2026/APO Group/ –A new partnership between Perenco Cameroon, Perenco Gabon and the UCAC-ICAM Institute in Douala to establish an Industry 4.0 laboratory marks a significant step toward aligning academic training with the evolving needs of the energy and industrial sectors. The facility will give students access to advanced automation, digital simulation and smart production technologies, helping close the gap between academic learning and the practical, industry-ready skills required across Central Africa’s industrial landscape.

 

As the voice of Africa’s energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) welcomes the initiative as a scalable model for local content development. By equipping students with Industry 4.0 capabilities, the laboratory directly supports the Chamber’s mandate to ensure greater in-country value creation and workforce participation across Africa’s energy value chain. The initiative also addresses critical skills shortages, enabling operators to increasingly rely on locally trained talent.

 

Developing local skills is fundamental to building a competitive and sustainable energy sector in Africa

The partnership underscores Perenco’s long-term commitment to sustainable development and capacity building in Cameroon and Gabon. Designed as a mini-factory, the UCAC-ICAM laboratory enables students to engage with real-world industrial tools and processes. This hands-on approach will support the development of engineers and technicians capable of contributing to key projects, including operations in the Rio del Rey Basin and infrastructure developments such as the Cap Lopez LNG terminal in Gabon.

 

Students across multiple disciplines will benefit from hands-on exposure to the lab’s advanced technologies. General Engineering students will train using robotic systems and virtual reality simulations, while Computer Science Engineering students will focus on industrial IoT and smart technologies. Process Engineering students will gain experience in automated production systems, and Petroleum program students will develop expertise in energy systems and instrumentation control. Graduates from UCAC-ICAM are being actively recruited by leading companies operating in Douala, reflecting growing demand for locally trained, industry-ready talent.

“Developing local skills is fundamental to building a competitive and sustainable energy sector in Africa,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “This partnership demonstrates how industry and academia can work together to create a highly skilled workforce that will drive Africa’s industrialization and energy future. It is exactly the type of initiative needed to ensure Africans play a leading role in developing the continent’s resources.”

The UCAC-ICAM laboratory represents a strategic investment in Africa’s industrial and energy future. By strengthening local capacity, advancing technology adoption and supporting independent operators, the initiative aligns with the AEC’s broader vision of a self-sufficient and globally competitive African energy sector.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Securing the bridge between legacy and smart

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7 hours ago

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April 10, 2026

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DLMS

STS Association and DLMS User Association sign landmark Liaison Agreement to advance interoperable, secure and future-ready metering systems

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, April 9, 2026/APO Group/ –The recent Liaison Agreement between the STS Association and the DLMS User Association marks a pivotal step in the evolution of interoperable, secure and future-ready metering systems. By aligning STS token technology with the widely adopted DLMS/COSEM framework, this collaboration is set to bridge the gap between legacy infrastructure and next-generation smart metering. The partnership reflects a shared vision to enhance interoperability, strengthen smart prepayment integration, and unlock greater value across the global metering ecosystem.

 

STS Association, in partnership with ESI Africa (part of VUKA Group), and DLMS User Association, is hosting a free webinar on this topic:

Securing the bridge between legacy and smart

Thursday, 7 May 2026 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Register: https://apo-opa.co/4cfEUb5

What you will learn

Industry experts will unpack how this strategic alignment enables seamless integration between your trusted prepayment systems and advanced data exchange protocols. Attendees will gain insight into:

  • How STS tokens can be securely transported using DLMS/COSEM
  • The role of Generic Companion Profiles in enabling interoperability
  • How coordinated roadmaps will shape the future of token technology and smart metering
  • The expanding application of these standards beyond electricity into water, gas and time metering
  • Practical benefits for utilities, manufacturers and system integrators navigating the transition from legacy to smart environments

Introducing the Panel

Lance Hawkins-Dady – STSA Board Chairman

Franco Pucci – STSA Technical Consultant

Don Taylor – STSA Independent Director

Sergio Lazzarotto – DLMS User Association, President

Join STS Association and ESI Africa to explore how this landmark collaboration is securing the bridge between legacy systems and smart innovation. Discover how aligned standards can simplify integration, enhance security and future-proof your metering strategy.

Register now: https://apo-opa.co/4cfEUb5

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

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