#HennessyMyWay Cocktail Challenge – a quest for Ghana’s best, most sustainable and most memorable cocktail in partnership with the Bartenders Guild Association of Ghana.

The Hennessy MyWay challenge Ghana 2024 finals was hosted on Tuesday the 7^th of May at the No.19 restaurant and bar. It’s a global cocktail competition to discover the finest, most sustainable cocktail with the most memorable service ritual, for the world’s #1 luxury spirit brand. Inspired by the Cognac house’s centuries-long pursuit of excellence and its pioneering spirit in environmental field.

The Maison, Hennessy, introduced HennessyMyWay, a global campaign in 2020, to lend support to the bartending community and celebrate their passion and craft in creating expressive cocktails. After three (3) amazing challenges with thousands of creations from 33 countries, HennessyMyWay is back to kick-off its 2^nd season officially in Ghana, continuing to support bartenders with the opportunity to earn global recognition and be rewarded with cash support.

To launch the cocktail challenge in Ghana, bartenders across Accra and beyond were hosted to a series of exclusive programs and competitions to shortlist the top 10 bartenders in Ghana. Bartenders were tasked with exploring key elements of the competition, such as highlighting local ingredients, methods, sustainability, and showcasing unique service rituals. Each bartender was encouraged to use either the Hennessy Very Special or the V.S.O.P Privilege.

Hennessy Bartenders Cocktail Challenge: A Quest for Ghana’s Best , Most Suitable and Most Memorable Cocktail #HENNESSYMYWAY

“What an incredible experience watching the best of the best battle it out for the #HennessyMyWay crown in Ghana. It’s clear there’s a dynamic cocktail scene here in Accra and to see the passion and creativity of all the participants was very special. 

From humble beginnings in 2020, the Hennessy My Way Challenge, now entering its 5th chapter, is today a true global initiative celebrating the creativity of bartenders across world. This challenge is very important to Hennessy as it pushes the boundaries of how Hennessy can be enjoyed…we like to say that Hennessy is made with rules, consumed with none. 

Congratulations to our winner Kamsi Brown, she was super impressive and we look forward to welcoming her to Hennessy’s home in Cognac, France” …. said Moet Hennessy’s General Manager for North, Central and West Africa, Benjamin Smith.

In addition, Kojo Bordovic, Founder of the Ghana Bartenders Guild expressed his excitement about this challenge “It was an exciting time empowering these multiple talented bartenders. The talent in Ghana is undeniable. Big thanks to Hennessy & Imexco Ghana for putting this wonderful initiative together”.

Bartenders were invited to participate in #HennessyMyWayGh, a quest to discover the most innovative and sustainable cocktail creations paired with spectacular serving rituals. On offer were cash prizes of up to GHs 20,000 for top 3 finalists with the winner winning an immersive trip to Maison Hennessy. Top 5 finalists also got support from Hennessy to compete at the international competition.

About Hennessy

The leader in Cognac, the Maison Hennessy has shone around the world with its exceptional know-how for more than 250 years. Built on founder Richard Hennessy’s spirit of conquest, the brand is present in more than 160 countries. Based in the heart of the Charente region, Hennessy is also a steadfast pillar of the regional economy. The House’s success and longevity are rooted in the excellence of its cognacs, each of which is born of a unique process of transmission of know-how from generation to generation. The first spirits house to be certified ISO 14001, Hennessy unites its capacity for innovation and the support of all of its partners to protect this exceptional area. As a crown jewel of the LVMH Group, Hennessy is a major contributor to French international trade, with 99% of production sold in export, and a worldwide ambassador for the French art de vivre. Read more about Hennessy at www.Hennessy.com  

Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC are closely related cannabinoids, each offering distinct effects and legal status that appeal to different users. 

While Delta 9 THC is the most well-known for its potent psychoactive properties, Delta 8 THC provides a milder, less intense experience. Delta 8 is often described as giving a clearer high, with reduced anxiety and less sedative effects compared to its Delta 9 counterpart. 

This has made Delta 8 popular among those who want the benefits of THC without the overwhelming high that can sometimes occur with Delta 9.

Additionally, the legal landscape for Delta 8 is currently more permissive in some regions due to its derivation from hemp, which has led to its increased availability and popularity. 

Understanding the nuances between these two cannabinoids is crucial for users looking to tailor their cannabis experience to their specific needs and preferences. Delta-8 and Delta-9 lack extensive research, and there are concerns about how to buy delta-8 products. Let’s investigate their uses, effects, legalities, and safety considerations.

Delta-8 Thc Vs. Delta-9 Thc: Differences And Similarities

When comparing Delta-8 THC to Delta-9 THC, it’s essential to understand both their differences and similarities. While both are cannabinoids found in cannabis, they possess distinct chemical structures, resulting in varying effects on the body.

1. Chemical Structure:

• Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are both cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, belonging to the same family of compounds.
• They share a similar molecular structure and contain a double bond in their chemical makeup. However, the location of this double bond differs between the two compounds.
• In Delta-8 THC, the double bond is located on the eighth carbon atom in the molecular chain, whereas in Delta-9 THC, it is on the ninth carbon atom.
• This slight difference in structure leads to variations in their physiological effects and potency.

2. Psychoactive Effects:

• Delta-9 THC is renowned for its psychoactive properties and is primarily responsible for the euphoric “high” associated with marijuana use.
• When consumed, Delta-9 THC binds strongly to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, particularly the CB1 receptors, resulting in altered perception, euphoria, relaxation, and sometimes heightened sensory experiences.
• Delta-8 THC, on the other hand, produces a milder psychoactive effect compared to Delta-9 THC.
• While it also binds to CB1 receptors, it does so with less affinity, leading to a less intense high.
• Users often report feeling more clear-headed and less anxious after consuming Delta-8 THC compared to Delta-9 THC.

3. Therapeutic Potential:

• Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC exhibit potential therapeutic benefits beyond their psychoactive effects. 
• They have shown promise in alleviating symptoms associated with various medical conditions, including pain, nausea, inflammation, anxiety, and appetite stimulation. 
• Research suggests that Delta-8 THC may offer similar therapeutic effects to Delta-9 THC but with fewer adverse side effects, making it a potentially attractive option for medical cannabis users. 
• Products like the strongest Delta 8 flower may provide these benefits in a potent form, potentially enhancing the therapeutic experience for users seeking relief with minimal psychoactivity.

4. Legal Status:

• The legal status of Delta-8 THC varies depending on local regulations and interpretations of existing laws.
• In many countries, including the United States, Delta-9 THC is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, meaning it is illegal to possess, distribute, or use.
• Delta-8 THC occupies a legal gray area, as it is often derived from hemp, which is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill in the U.S.
• However, some states have explicitly banned Delta-8 THC, while others have allowed its sale and consumption under specific regulations.

Does Delta 9 Get You Higher Than Delta 8?

Delta-9 THC typically induces a more substantial psychoactive effect compared to Delta-8 THC, making it more potent. This heightened potency is attributed to Delta-9 THC’s stronger binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, mainly CB1 receptors. 

Consequently, Delta-9 THC is often associated with the traditional “high” from cannabis use, characterized by euphoria, altered perception, relaxation, and heightened sensory experiences. Conversely, Delta-8 THC yields a milder psychoactive effect, binding to CB1 receptors with less affinity than Delta-9 THC. This results in a less intense high, often described as clearer-headed and less anxiety-inducing. 

Some users find Delta-8 THC leaves them feeling more relaxed and functional compared to Delta-9 THC. Ultimately, while both cannabinoids offer psychoactive effects, Delta-9 THC typically provides a stronger and more potent high. For those interested, consider exploring options to buy Delta 8 flowers online.

Is Delta 8 Or 9 Better For Anxiety?

The suitability of Delta-8 or Delta-9 THC for anxiety depends on various factors, including individual tolerance, sensitivity to THC, and the specific effects desired.

Delta-8 THC is often considered to produce a milder psychoactive effect compared to Delta-9 THC. Some users report feeling more clear-headed and less anxious after consuming Delta-8 THC, making it potentially preferable for individuals prone to anxiety or paranoia with traditional cannabis use. However, it’s important to note that Delta-8 THC can still induce psychoactive effects, and its impact on anxiety may vary among individuals.

Delta-9 THC, on the other hand, is known for its potent psychoactive properties and may induce anxiety or paranoia, particularly at higher doses or in sensitive individuals. While some users find relief from anxiety with Delta-9 THC, others may experience increased anxiety or discomfort.

Ultimately, the choice between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC for anxiety should be made based on personal experience, experimentation, and consultation with a healthcare professional. It’s essential to start with low doses and gradually increase as needed while monitoring the effects on anxiety symptoms. Additionally, considering other factors such as terpene profiles, CBD content, and overall cannabinoid ratios may also influence the suitability of Delta-8 or Delta-9 THC for anxiety management.

Is Delta 8 Or Delta 9 Better For Sleep?

Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC may have potential benefits for sleep, but individual responses can vary widely. Here’s a breakdown of how each cannabinoid may affect sleep:

Delta-8 THC:

• Delta-8 THC is often reported to produce a more subtle psychoactive effect compared to Delta-9 THC.
• Some users find that Delta-8 THC promotes relaxation and may help with falling asleep.
• Its calming properties may make it suitable for individuals who experience anxiety or restlessness at bedtime.

Delta-9 THC:

• Delta-9 THC is known for its stronger psychoactive effects and may induce a more pronounced “high.”
• While some users report improved sleep with Delta-9 THC, others may experience disruptions in sleep patterns or increased wakefulness.
• The effects of Delta-9 THC on sleep can vary based on dosage, individual tolerance, and sensitivity to THC.

Conclusion: What Delta Is The Strongest?

Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC offer unique properties and potential benefits, but they differ in terms of potency and psychoactive effects. Delta-9 THC typically produces a stronger and more pronounced psychoactive high compared to Delta-8 THC. However, Delta-8 THC may provide a milder and more clear-headed experience, potentially making it preferable for individuals sensitive to the anxiety-inducing effects of Delta-9 THC.

When considering which cannabinoid is best for anxiety or sleep, individual tolerance, sensitivity, and desired effects should be taken into account. Delta-8 THC may be more suitable for those seeking relaxation and relief from anxiety without experiencing overwhelming psychoactive effects. However, Delta-9 THC may be preferred by some users for its stronger euphoric effects and potential sleep-inducing properties.

President Macron praises the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) for its catalytical role; Access to clean cooking is about more than cooking, it is about dignity, says Adesina; Tanzania’s President Suluhu calls for generous replenishment of African Development Fund to guarantee resources for clean cooking for Africa’s low-income countries.

The African Development Bank Group pledged $2 billion over 10 years towards clean cooking solutions in Africa—a major step along the road to saving the lives of 600,000 mainly women and children each year.

Speaking at a landmark summit on Clean Cooking in Africa held yesterday in Paris, the Bank Group’s President Dr Akinwumi Adesina, said the institution would now commit 20 per cent of all its financing of energy projects towards promoting safe alternatives to cooking with charcoal, wood and biomass.

Receiving heads of state and government, and leaders of international organizations at the Elysee Palace to discuss the outcomes of the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron, praised the African Development Bank’s leading role and commitment to delivering clean cooking in Africa. The summit resulted in $2.2 billion pledges from the public and private sectors.

“As part of the Paris Pact for People and the Planet, and with the commitment of Tanzania, Norway, the International Energy Agency, the African Development Bank, and many other partners, we are taking a step forward against this silent scourge today. We are mobilizing $2.2 billion to provide clean alternatives to populations in Africa,” Macron said (https://apo-opa.co/3V34UiD). “France pledges to invest €100 million over five years in clean cooking methods and will mobilize even more through the Paris Pact for People and the Planet and Finance in Common.”

Addressing the summit plenary yesterday, the African Development Bank President noted that in Africa a staggering 1.2 billion people lack access to clean cooking facilities.

The Summit was cochaired by United Republic of Tanzania President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, Norway Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, and the Executive Director of the International Energy Agency Dr. Fatih Birol.

In his passionate address, Adesina declared that it was time to end the sight of African women and girls, backs bent bearing heavy loads, walking kilometres each day, often with a lack of security just to cook daily family meals. He noted that the tools for enabling clean cooking access are readily available and affordable but had not been sufficiently prioritised.

“As a result over 10 years, six million people, mainly women, will die prematurely. That is not acceptable,” he told the summit attended by some 20 African heads of state and government, representatives of all leading international organisations and global businesses.

“Access to clean cooking is about more than cooking, it is about dignity… It is more than about lighting a stove, it is about life itself. It is about fairness, justice and equity for women,” Adesina said, recalling how as a youth he had damaged his own eyesight blowing into smoking wooden fires and how a friend had died in a kerosene-related explosion.

Worldwide, the lack of access to clean cooking affects over two billion people—more than half of whom are in Africa, typically cooking over open fires and basic stoves. Using charcoal, wood, agricultural waste, and animal dung as fuel, they inhale harmful toxic fumes and smoke with dire consequences for health.

It is the second leading cause of premature death in Africa. Opportunities for education, employment and independence are also severely impacted because women instead spend hours each day foraging for rudimentary fuels.

“This momentous summit on clean cooking in Africa is the largest ever gathering of leaders and policy makers dedicated to confronting the issue of access to clean cooking in Africa. We can fix it,” Adesina added. “There is nothing improved in continued suffering. No woman in Africa should have to cook again with firewood, charcoal or biomass. It is time to restore dignity to women who cook in Africa.”

The Bank’s pledge of $200 million per year represents an important contribution to the $4 billion per year needed to allow African families to have access to clean cooking by 2030.

In addition to its dramatic toll on human lives, the lack of clean cooking facilities is one of the main causes of deforestation in Africa.

International Energy Agency figures show that globally 200 million hectares of forest, 110 million of them in Africa, were at risk because of the climatic effects of cooking with charcoal, biomass, and wood. “Providing access to clean cooking is not only right, fair and just—it is also the globally responsible thing to do,” Adesina said in his address to the Summit plenary session.

Adesina hailed the event in which close to 60 countries took part, with over 1,000 delegates in attendance, as a major turning point on an issue which had gone too long unaddressed.

He added that commitments announced at the summit go beyond the money alone—they set out concrete steps on how governments, institutions and the private sector can work together to solve the clean cooking challenge this decade.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania told the gathering that successfully advancing the clean cooking agenda in Africa would contribute towards protecting the environment, climate, health, and ensuring gender equality.

“This summit underscores our commitment to advancing this agenda and providing a framework towards universal adoption of clean cooking fuels and technologies across the continent,” she said.

President Suluhu launched during COP28 a national program to solve this challenge in Tanzania, and in other parts of Africa, with the African Women Clean Cooking Support Program.

She made a strong call to the global community to ensure a bold replenishment of the next three-year cycle of the African Development Bank Group’s concessional window, the African Development Fund. “To guarantee resources for clean cooking, this summit has to call for a generous next replenishment of the African Development Fund that includes $12 billion for clean cooking,” President Suluhu urged.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre of Norway said: “Improving access to clean cooking is about improving health outcomes, reducing emissions, and creating opportunities for economic growth. With today’s summit, we have mobilized much needed support, and built a diverse partnership that together can make a real difference. Norway is a steadfast supporter of clean cooking, and I was pleased to announce today that we are committed to investing approximately $50 million in this important cause.”

“This summit has delivered an emphatic commitment to an issue that has been ignored by too many people, for too long. We still have a long way to go, but the outcome of this summit, $2.2 billion committed, can help support fundamental rights such as health, gender equality and education while also reducing emissions and restoring forests,” IEA Executive Director Birol declared.

Birol said the IEA would build on the summit’s achievements by continuing to play a convening role to engage more willing partners and generate new funds to help meet the $4 billion a year in capital investments required between now and 2030. Reaching this level of funding would enable the world to deploy the stoves and fuel delivery infrastructure needed to reach universal access to clean cooking in sub-Saharan Africa.

Within this context, Denmark’s Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy Dan Jannik Jørgensen praised the African Development Bank’s initiative to establish a dedicated clean cooking sub-program under the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA).

Established in 2011, SEFA is a multi-donor Special Fund managed which provides catalytic finance to unlock private sector investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. It offers technical assistance and concessional finance instruments to remove market barriers, build a more robust pipeline of projects and improve the risk-return profile of individual investments.

The African Development Bank has been a key advocate for clean cooking access in Africa. In July 2023, it published with the International Energy Agency a comprehensive report on clean cooking solutions .

At COP28, the African Development Bank hosted a round table on clean cooking during which it committed to allocating 20% of its annual energy lending towards clean cooking, generating $2 billion over the next decade. The Bank also supported Tanzania’s clean cooking initiative, which focuses on improving women’s access to clean cooking solutions, launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan at COP28.

Asia—led by China and India in the lead—and Latin America have for the most part, succeeded in resolving the issue over the last 20 years. However, today in Benin, Ethiopia, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania… more than 80 per cent of the population still depends on biomass to cook their meals. In Nigeria, Kenya or Ghana, the figure is 70 per cent.

The Senior Management Team of Telecel Ghana has paid a courtesy call on Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli Traditional Area, an entrepreneur and Executive Chairman of the World Trade Centre, Accra. This visit follows Telecel Ghana’s rebranding in March 2024.

The team has been actively engaging with key traditional leaders across the country, including His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in the Ashanti Region, His Royal Majesty Nii Tackie Tsuru II of the Ga State, His Royal Majesty, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, Okyenhene of Akyem Abuakwa, the Choggu Naa, Naa Mahamadu Alhassan II, under the delegation of Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II of the Dagbon State and Nana Kobina Nketsia V, the Omanhene of Essikado. The engagements form a crucial part of the rebranding process to introduce the Telecel brand to key stakeholders and highlight the organization’s commitment to technological growth, innovation, and community collaboration.

During the visit, Togbe Afede XIV emphasized the critical role of the telecommunications industry in national development and encouraged Telecel Ghana to continue innovating as well as strengthen collaborations with traditional authorities to enhance societal impact. He added that during economically challenging moments, businesses had to continuously innovate to remain competitive in the industry. Additionally, he suggested Telecel Ghana listing on the Ghana Stock Exchange to deepen its indigenous connection to the Ghanaian people. 

Togbe Afede XIV further commended the team for its commitment to gender equality and its proactive approach toward fostering economic growth and supporting future advancements in the telecommunications sector.  

On her part, Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai CEO of Telecel Ghana said, “We are deeply honoured by the warm reception from Togbe Afede XIV and his insightful remarks about the potential of our sector to significantly contribute to the country’s economy.” She further highlighted the importance of ongoing innovation and deeper collaboration with traditional leaders, to ensure that technological advancements benefit all aspects of society. 

“Telecel Ghana’s goal is to build a robust network that supports local enterprises and enhance the quality of life for every Ghanaian, so we are dedicated to working closely with traditional leaders to leverage their insights and leadership for community development.”, she added.

Following the visit, Telecel Ghana will maintain its dialogue with traditional leaders to discuss future partnerships and community-focused projects. 

The organization’s recent brand launch in Kumasi and its ongoing outreach reflects its renewed commitment to driving growth and innovation in Ghana’s telecommunications landscape.

The Chief Executive Officer of MobileMoney Limited (MML), Shaibu Haruna, has emphasized the need for collaboration between financial institutions and fintech companies to develop a more robust financial ecosystem. He made this statement during a panel discussion on “Banking and Fintech interactions: Balancing Innovation Risks and Inclusion” at the 3i Africa Summit held in Accra.

Mr Shaibu Haruna spoke alongside Valentine Obi, the Founder and CEO of e-Transact Group, Corine Mbiaketcha Nana, Member of PAPSS Management Board, Afreximbank and Romeo Bugyei, CEO of IT Consortium Ghana. The session was moderated Djiba Diallo, Senior Fintech Advisor, Ecobank Transactional Incorporated and was titled “Banking and fintech Intersection: Balancing Innovation, Risks, Inclusion Banking”.

Mr. Haruna urged stakeholders in the financial sector to collaborate rather than compete to build trust and work together to serve clients’ needs better. He said, “Mobile Money has been around for 15 years. When we began there was some resistance, but it has moved to acceptance. At the core of our success are the banks. There is an interplay between the bank and the other parties.  We have built a good business from a transactional point of view but there is still an opportunity to do more. We are exploring innovative ways to provide clients with credit.”

He noted that as key players in the finTech space, “we need to view each other as collaborators with the common goal of providing better services to our clients”.   He said, “this can only be achieved through trust, which is nurtured and built on understanding the objectives. We should let go of the competitive mindset and explore innovative ways to partner and collaborate to deliver value to our clients”. He stated that to accomplish this, there must be a shared understanding of the purpose of making a positive impact on individuals, communities, and businesses.

Mr. Haruna emphasized MobileMoney Limited’s commitment to collaborating with finTechs to create a smooth customer experience. He noted that, “I am grateful to the organisers of this program for bringing all stakeholders together to have the necessary discussions. At MobileMoney Limited we are very open to collaboration. We invite all fintechs to come on board and work with us to build the financial ecosystem we are working towards achieving. The goal is to see our customers have a seamless experience across all our platforms”. 

The 3i Africa Summit is a global event focused on transforming Africa’s economic landscape through sustainable, long-term capital allocation. It addresses the critical need for a sustainable growth framework in Africa, emphasizing inclusion and sustainability at its core.

Be part of the harmony unleashed segment and award ceremony,

The Afro International Music Festival is just around the corner, and we’re excited to announce job opportunities for individuals passionate about music, peace, and culture! This year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, with a special focus on promoting peace and harmony through music.

HARMONY UNLEASHED SEGMENT AND AWARD CEREMONY

The festival’s harmony unleashed segment will feature a unique blend of local and international artists, coming together to promote peace and unity through music. The award ceremony will recognize outstanding contributions to the music industry, with a special emphasis on artists who have used their platform to promote peace and social justice.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

We’re looking for talented and dedicated individuals to join our team! Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a marketing guru, or a logistics expert, we have a role for you. Our job opportunities include:

LOCAL EVENT STAFF
STEWARDS
FLOOR MANAGERS
SECURITY GUARDS
CLEANERS
SANITATION OFFICERS AND
LIFEGUARDS.

DAILY WAGE: $100, 12-HOUR SHIFT

As a member of our team, you’ll receive a daily wage of $100 for a 12-hour shift. Not only will you be part of an unforgettable event, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and enjoy the music and atmosphere.

SURPRISE BIG ARTISTS

This year’s festival will feature surprise performances by big artists from both local and international scenes. Our lineup includes Grammy-winning artists, chart-topping musicians, and rising stars in the music industry. You won’t want to miss this!

PROMOTING PEACE DURING ADA FESTIVAL PERIOD

The Afro International Music Festival is committed to promoting peace and harmony during the Ada festival period. Our music festival will bring together people from all walks of life, celebrating our diversity and promoting unity through music.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested in joining our team? Send us a DM with your name, contact info, and a brief intro! Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to be part of something special.

FOLLOW US

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes insights into the Afro International Music Festival. Follow us on social media: @Afro_IMF

Join the movement and be part of the Afro International Music Festival! Let’s come together to promote peace, unity, and harmony through music.