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candle in the windVenus Films Productions premieres its latest movie,  “Candle In The Wind” today January 1, at the Silverbird cinemas in the Accra Mall and West Hill Mall.

In ‘Candle In The Wind’,  an old man traces his lost daughter to ask for forgiveness by narrating his past experiences with his first love, wealth, power and regrets after selling his life and self-esteem to acquire wealth and dining with the devil making him lose all he ever cherished…..When a hustler makes up his mind to acquire wealth by all means he ends up dining with the devil.

The movie features Jackie Appiah, James Gardiner, Christabel Ekeh, Helen Asante, Michel Hammond, Timothy Bentum and more. It is directed by Pascal Amanfo.

 

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People & Lifestyle

Starting a business in The Netherlands as a foreign company?

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Starting a business in the Netherlands as a foreign entrepreneur can be an exciting and profitable endeavor. The Netherlands is known for its welcoming business environment, strategic European location, and excellent infrastructure. However, setting up a company in a foreign country can be complex. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this process, with expert assistance from Intercompany Solutions.

Choosing the business structure

When starting a business in the Netherlands as a foreign company, one of the first steps is to choose the right business structure. Many foreign entrepreneurs opt for a Besloten Vennootschap (BV), which is similar to a limited liability company (LLC) in other countries. This structure offers limited liability protection, ensuring your personal assets are not at risk in the event of business liabilities.

Registering with the chamber of commerce (KvK)

Once you have decided on the structure, the next step is to register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK). This registration can be done online or by scheduling an appointment at a KvK office. You’ll need to provide identification and proof of address. Upon registration, your business will automatically be issued a VAT number by the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration, enabling you to handle tax matters efficiently.

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Setting up administrative and financial foundations

Setting up a solid administrative foundation is crucial for smooth operations. This involves establishing an effective bookkeeping system. Hiring a local accountant or bookkeeper can be invaluable, as they are well-versed in Dutch tax regulations and accounting practices, ensuring compliance and accuracy in your financial records.

Additionally, opening a Dutch business bank account is essential. This process may take some time since banks often require additional documentation for foreign businesses. Having a local bank account simplifies transactions and helps maintain clear financial records.

Compliance with local regulations

Depending on your business activities, you may need specific permits or licenses. It’s essential to check with the local municipality to understand the requirements applicable to your business. Compliance with local regulations is crucial to avoid fines or operational delays.

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Securing a business location

Securing a suitable location for your business is vital. Whether you need office space, a retail store, or a manufacturing facility, having a lease or purchase agreement is necessary before you can proceed with further registrations.

Drafting general terms and conditions

Drafting comprehensive general terms and conditions that align with Dutch laws is another important step. These documents define your business’s operational framework and set clear expectations with customers and suppliers. Professional legal advice can ensure that your terms are compliant and robust.

Insurance and risk management

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Protecting your business with the right insurance policies, such as liability insurance and legal assistance insurance, is crucial to safeguarding against potential risks.

Securing residence and work permits

For non-EU citizens, securing residence and work permits is a critical step. The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) handles these permits. Ensuring that all necessary paperwork is in order and submitted on time can help avoid delays.

Seeking professional assistance

Given the complexities involved in starting a business in a foreign country, seeking professional assistance can be highly beneficial. Intercompany Solutions specializes in helping foreign businesses establish themselves in the Netherlands. Their expertise covers every aspect of the process, from initial registration to ongoing compliance and administrative support.

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Conclusion

Starting a business in the Netherlands as a foreign entrepreneur involves navigating various regulatory, administrative, and logistical challenges. However, with thorough preparation and the right support, you can lay a solid foundation for your business. For personalized advice and comprehensive support, contact Intercompany Solutions to ensure a smooth and successful setup of your business in the Netherlands.

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Empowering Communities: “Our Gatekeeper” Revolutionizes Convenience and Security

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Elevating the Resident Experience with Lyme Drip Ghana Limited’s All-In-One Community Application Suite

As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, the need for smarter and more secure communities has become very vital. Lyme Drip Ghana Limited is at the forefront of this revolution with its ground-breaking solution – Our Gatekeeper. This all-in-one community application suite is meticulously designed to elevate security and convenience in residential and commercial settings -gated estates, school hostels, office buildings and all gated facilities.

Seamless Connectivity for Tailored Experiences

Our Gatekeeper is the digital nexus connecting community administrators, residents, and security personnel. The platform boasts of various features crafted to meet the specific needs of diverse communities. Designed with cutting-edge technology, it serves as the ultimate guardian for your digital world, offering unparalleled protection without compromising on user experience.

Key Features

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Panic Alert Module: Quick emergency response is essential for the security of persons and property. Our Gatekeeper introduces a panic button enabling residents to notify other residents nearby and emergency services. Users have the flexibility to customize multiple emergency contacts on the app. This provides options for users when confronted with an emergency and reduces possible delay in response time. 

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Fig. 1 Panic Alert Module

Access (Entry/Exit) Module: Streamlining the entry process, residents can conveniently create guest access through the app. Users share a QR code or alphanumeric code with guests and visitors for a quick scan at the gate. The resident receives an alert when the guest is admitted or denied entry. This empowers residents and occupants of gated facilities to wear off solicitations and uninvited guests. This access control system also cures tailgating and challenges it possess. 

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Fig. 2 Access Module

Messaging Module: Enhancing communication, residents can seamlessly connect with facility management and the app development team to share relevant issues or suggestions. This ease of reporting issues and communication enables quicker response times to issues that residents and occupants of facilities could be facing. The convenience adds value to services provided in these communities. 

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Fig. 3 Messaging Module

Finance Module (Facility Interface): Empowering community administrators, this module facilitates efficient facility levy management, project organization, and real-time financial tracking for enhanced transparency. Facility owners and administrators benefit from intelligent automatic payment percentage analysis reconciled based on the number of houses/rooms/offices. 

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Fig. 4 Facility Levy

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Fig. 5 Facility Project

Finance Module (Resident Interface): Users receive real-time updates on facility levies due and make payments securely within the app. Stay informed about facility projects and contributions towards community development. Quicker access to facility levies and project payments records for easy reference. Residents receive real-time payment notifications as digital receipts. Payments are automatically reconciled within the same house. 

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Fig. 6 Finance Module

Shop Module: Transforming the way residents’ shop, this feature allows for a convenient in-app shopping experience, including pickup or delivery options. Residents can also become sellers, fostering a sense of community commerce.

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Fig. 7 Shop Module

Services Module: Residents can easily book the services of a gardener, electrician, plumber, and other artisans directly from the app. When booking is scheduled, the service person’s availability is confirmed and guaranteed. The service charge is only paid when job is completed and approved by the resident.

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Fig. 8 Service Module

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Data and Security Protection

Our Gatekeeper is registered with the Data Protection Commission of Ghana with registration ID 4591. We offer multi-factor authentication for administrators’ interfaces for added security of resident data and resources. Our app platform runs on Google Cloud, offering world-class security backed by Google’s advanced infrastructure. With Google Cloud, your data is protected by robust encryption, multi-layered security protocols, and continuous monitoring to safeguard against threats. Your privacy and security are our top priority.

Positive User Experiences

Available on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store, Our Gatekeeper has garnered positive reviews from users who appreciate its blend of convenience and security. The user-friendly interface coupled with robust features has made it a go-to solution for communities seeking a smarter way to manage their facility. What sets Our Gatekeeper apart is not just its robust security features but its ability to integrate effortlessly into daily life, redefining convenience. 

Join Our Gatekeeper Community Today

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In conclusion, Our Gatekeeper is a powerful tool, reshaping the landscape of community living. Its positive reception among users attests to its effectiveness in enhancing convenience and security. If you’re seeking a comprehensive solution to streamline estate management, look no further than Our Gatekeeper. Join our community today and journey towards a seamlessly connected and secure living experience. 

If you are a facility manager or owner, fill out this form for a free full one-month use of the software suite with no obligations https://rebrand.ly/mdiioh5

Discover Our Gatekeeper: 

Website: www.ourgatekeeper.com

Email: info@ourgatekeeper.com

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

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#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 7th 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 2nd 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

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. 

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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.

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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  

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Delta 8 vs. Delta 9: Uses, Effects, and More

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

 

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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.

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African Development Bank commits $2 billion as it leads the way at landmark summit for access to clean cooking in Africa

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Telecel Ghana pays courtesy call on the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli Traditional Area, Togbe Afede XIV

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Togbe Afede XIV with some of his official staff and members of the Telecel Ghana team

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. 

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“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.

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