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Canon Launches the imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC-21M: Large Format Desktop Printers with Enhanced Usability and Environmental Features

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Canon

The TC-21M model integrates an A4 flatbed scanner that enables users to easily make enlarged copies up to A1+ size

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 31, 2025/APO Group/ –Enhancing its comprehensive portfolio of large format solutions, Canon (www.Canon-CNA.com) today launches two four-colour (CMYK), easy-to-use, large format desktop printers: the TC-21 and the TC-21M, the latter having an integrated A4 scanner. Targeted at customers in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC), design, hospitality, retail and education sectors, the new printers build on the success of the TC-20 and TC-20M models that were launched in 2023, and deliver even more benefits through features such as expanded media handling capabilities, a convenient tiltable operation panel, minimal margin printing and an enhanced eco-friendly design. While compact in size, both new models support printing up to A1+, making them suitable for applications such as architectural and design drawings, restaurant menus, retail posters and educational materials. Using the standard Auto Sheet Feeder (ASF), both models can also print a variety of other applications, such as flyers on A5/A6 papers, labels, postcards and envelopes.

The TC-21M model includes an A4 flatbed scanner, allowing users to easily create large format copies without a computer – ideal for promotional materials, educational content, and even customised wrapping paper. Delivering high-quality output from a space-saving body, both models are suitable for various environments, from home offices to retail establishments and educational institutions.

Space-saving design with improved usability. 

As the imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC-21M have been designed to allow users to perform all printing operations from the front of the unit, including paper loading, ink filling and print collection, the printers are very space-efficient. The new tiltable operation panel offers greater flexibility in the installation location of the printers and also enhanced usability, as the angle of the panel can be easily adjusted to the user’s view, making the printer convenient to operate whether placed on a desk or, for example, a low shelf.

Both models support printing from roll paper up to A1+ wide and feature a standard Auto Sheet Feeder (ASF) compatible with various paper sizes and types, including sheets from A3 to A6, postcards, envelopes and labels. This flexibility allows users to print the same content in different sizes – such as A1 scale drawings for submission alongside A4 versions for review, or large restaurant menu posters with matching table-sized flyers.

Advanced scanning and copying functions in the TC-21M 

The TC-21M model integrates an A4 flatbed scanner that enables users to easily make enlarged copies up to A1+ size. Its enhanced copy functions include:

 The TC-21 and TC-21M provide a cost-effective alternative to outsourced printing services

  • “Enlarge & Split Copy”, which allows the creation of up to A0 sized posters from A4 originals by printing on multiple sheets, which can then be joined together to form the larger finished result
  • “Repeat Copy”, which duplicates content multiple times on a roll or single sheet (previously only available on a roll on the TC-20M) for labels, for example
  • “Layout Copy”, which allows multiple scanned images to be laid out for printing on a roll of paper

These functions are ideal for creating teaching materials, promotional posters, and custom wrapping paper without requiring a computer.

New features for enhanced design impact 

The TC-21 and TC-21M introduce a new “Minimal Margin Printing” function1 that allows printing on roll paper without any top or bottom margin and with only very small (approximately 0.5mm) left and right margins, maximizing the printable image size. Adopting an image processing method similar to higher-end imagePROGRAF models2, both models produce dense and vivid colours even on plain paper. High-capacity ink tanks enable efficient printing in the desktop printer range, while Canon’s free web-based PosterArtist poster design software, already used by thousands of imagePROGRAF users every month to create posters, makes it easy to create professional-looking posters and flyers that meet diverse business needs.

Industry-leading environmental credentials 

For the first time in the Canon imagePROGRAF series, recycled steel has been used in the body of the TC-21 and TC-21M, along with recycled resin for approximately 40% of the body resin3 – a significant improvement over the previous TC-20 and TC-20M models. Recyclable cardboard instead of polystyrene foam is used for packaging both products, also reducing their environmental impact. Both models have been registered as “EPEAT” Gold4 products under the international eco-label established by the Global Electronics Council (GEC), reflecting Canon’s commitment to sustainable design.

Mathew Faulkner, Director, Marketing & Innovation, Wide Format Printing Group, Canon EMEA, comments, “Further enhancing Canon’s already strong portfolio of large format solutions, the imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC-21M address the growing need for on-site, large-format printing capabilities for CAD printing and in retail, hospitality, educational, and design environments. By combining enhanced usability features with our commitment to sustainability, these compact, desktop printers deliver professional results while reducing the environmental impact compared with their predecessors. The TC-21 and TC-21M provide a cost-effective alternative to outsourced printing services, allowing organizations to produce high-quality materials on demand with minimal space requirements.”

The new imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC-21M will be available from May from Canon resellers.

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

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Morocco’s First Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Top Three Finalist is Pioneering Water and Sanitation Solutions

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Africa’s Business Heroes

Her inspiring leadership, technical knowledge and commitment to making a difference have seen her rise as a business leader in the water and sanitation industry

RABAT, Morocco, April 7, 2025/APO Group/ —

In a remarkable milestone for Morocco, Dr. Salma Bougarrani has made history by becoming the first female Moroccan entrepreneur to reach the Top three finalists in the esteemed Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/ Prize Competition. Finishing as the 1st Runner-Up. Dr. Bougarrani, the co-Founder and CEO behind Green Watech (apo-opa.co/4jrjZnv), is not just pushing sanitation forward for the rural communities; she’s also blazing a trail for women entrepreneurs in an industry where females are often not noticed or heard from. Her inspiring leadership, technical knowledge and commitment to making a difference have seen her rise as a business leader in the water and sanitation industry.

The recognition from ABH, the Jack Ma Foundation’s flagship philanthropic program in Africa, aligns with its mission to spotlight and support local talent like Dr. Bougarrani, who are driving positive change in their communities. Over a decade, the program aims to honor 100 African entrepreneurs while providing grant funding, training and broader ecosystem support to foster African entrepreneurship.

Dr. Bougarrani’s journey into the world of water and sanitation began with her firsthand observations of untreated wastewater wreaking havoc in Moroccan villages. Witnessing these difficulties sparked her passion for creating sustainable solutions, leading her to leave the world of academia and pursue a career in entrepreneurship. In 2018, she formed Green Watech to give rural communities access to reasonably priced and energy-efficient sanitation systems. She holds a PhD in Advanced Water Treatment Processes from Med V University and Leipzig University.

Impacting Lives Through Sustainable Innovation

At the centre of Green Watech’s innovation is a groundbreaking soil-based filtration system, which provides the means to treat wastewater for agricultural irrigation. Unlike expensive, energy-hungry technologies, this system is all about being low-maintenance, budget-friendly, and sustainable – perfect for rural communities that often struggle with limited infrastructure. By cutting down the need for fresh water by as much as 70%, Green Watech is transforming the water management landscape in Morocco.

Since its inception, Green Watech has changed the lives of over 30,000 people in 17 Moroccan villages and farms. The company has cleaned more than 200 million litres of wastewater, which helps with water shortages and makes farms more productive. Thanks to Green Watech’s participatory model, local communities actively participate in the process. Villagers are taught how to set up, maintain, and grow sanitation systems through training programs, which promote resilience and sustainability in the long run.

Green Watech’s soil-based filter system also cuts down on the need to use fresh water for crops. It offers a long-lasting, cheap, and easy-to-keep-up answer for people in rural areas. The company plans to grow beyond Morocco in the future. It aims to reach North Africa and other places during the year.

Breaking Down Barriers as an ABH Trailblazer

Dr. Bougarrani’s recognition as the first Moroccan entrepreneur to be placed among the top three finalists in the ABH competition is significant. Her success defies cultural expectations and gender norms in a field where male entrepreneurs predominate. Her accomplishment serves as a role model for aspiring female entrepreneurs throughout Africa and highlights her technical expertise and leadership abilities.

Her work in sustainable water management has gained her worldwide recognition. She has received top honours, including the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Grand Prize.

The Future of Green Wateche

Dr. Bougarrani plans to put the $150,000 prize back into Green Watech to help it reach more African communities in need. She has an ambitious goal to reach 1 million end-users by 2030.  Her career is an outstanding example of how someone with a strong will and passion can break walls, challenge stereotypes and uplift entire communities.

2025 ABH Applications Are Now Open

African entrepreneurs who want to enter the 2025 edition of the competition and stand a chance to win a share of US$1.5 million can do so at https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/register.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH

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African Development Bank and Bank of Africa Tanzania sign $7.5 million facility to boost trade finance

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The facility will support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local corporates engaged in the import sector

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, April 7, 2025/APO Group/ –The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) and the Bank of Africa Tanzania (BOAT) have signed a $7.5 million trade finance transaction guarantee facility to boost trade finance activities of the Bank of Africa in Tanzania.

Under this facility, the African Development Bank will provide a guarantee of up to 100% to confirming banks against non-payment risks arising from letters of credit and similar trade finance instruments issued by the Bank of Africa Tanzania. The facility will support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local corporates engaged in the import sector. The facility aligns with efforts to bolster intra-Africa trade, contributing directly to the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) (https://AU-AfCFTA.org/).

This partnership strengthens our ability to support businesses across various sectors by providing seamless trade finance solutions

Speaking at the signing event on March 10, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, the Bank’s Country Manager for Tanzania, Patricia Laverley, stressed the importance of the facility in addressing Tanzania’s trade finance needs, saying that given the country’s import requirements, it will aid priority sectors such as trade, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy. “This facility will support trade by enabling BOAT to play a more strategic role in the regional and international market.”

Representing BOAT’s management, Deputy Managing Director Hamza Cherkaoui lauded the strong partnership with the African Development Bank, emphasizing its role in expanding trade finance capabilities across the continent. “This partnership strengthens our ability to support businesses across various sectors by providing seamless trade finance solutions, expanding our confirmation network, and enabling access to top-tier confirming banks,” he said.

The new Trade Guarantee facility aligns with Bank of Africa Tanzania’s strategic priorities and the African Development Bank’s broader objectives, including promoting regional integration, increasing food security, and industrializing Africa. It also supports Tanzania’s Country Strategy paper 2021-2025, which focuses on enhancing the private sector business environment for job creation. It also aligns with the country’s development vision (Vision 2025), which aims to build a strong and resilient economy capable of competing globally.

The signing of the agreement marks a significant milestone in the African Development Bank Group’s direct engagement with Tanzania’s private sector, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the country’s financial sector and economic development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB

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PAC Capital Limited Named Best Transaction Advisory Firm in Nigeria at the Grand Annual Awards Ceremony 2025

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As part of the PanAfrican Capital Holdings Group, PAC Capital continues to expand its footprint across Africa and globally, with a focus on impact-driven transactions that promote sustainable economic growth

LAGOS, Nigeria, April 7, 2025/APO Group/ –PAC Capital Limited (www.PACCapitalLtd.com), a leading investment banking and advisory firm, is proud to announce its recognition as the Best Transaction Advisory Firm – Nigeria 2025 by the International Business Magazine Awards!

The award celebrates PAC Capital’s consistent track record in structuring and executing high-impact transactions across various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, transport, and financial services. This international recognition highlights the firm’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and delivering value-driven advisory services.

At PAC Capital, we are committed to delivering transformative financial solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations

Humphrey Oriakhi, Managing Director of PAC Capital, expressed his pride and appreciation for the recognition:

“This award is a strong validation of our efforts to lead with insight, integrity, and innovation in the transaction advisory space. We are truly honored to be acknowledged on a global platform. I dedicate this achievement to our clients who trust us with their most strategic decisions and to our team whose dedication fuels our success.”

Bolarinwa Sanni, Executive Director of PAC Capital, emphasized the importance of collaboration and resilience in the firm’s journey:

“Winning this award reflects the strength of our advisory team and the boldness of the clients we serve. At PAC Capital, we are committed to delivering transformative financial solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations. This recognition inspires us to keep pushing boundaries and shaping Africa’s investment landscape.”

As part of the PanAfrican Capital Holdings Group, PAC Capital continues to expand its footprint across Africa and globally, with a focus on impact-driven transactions that promote sustainable economic growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of PAC Capital Limited

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