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Tony Elumelu Foundation Champions The Africapitalism Narrative, Disburses $24.75 Million To 5000 Entrepreneurs Across Africa In 2021, Calls For 2022 Entries

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Never has there been such an explosive change of narrative about the African condition, a change that involves the African entrepreneur making the necessary strides for continental integration and development. “Africapitalism”—a term pioneered by the Group Board Chair of the United Bank for Africa Plc, Tony O. Elumelu—describes perfectly the phenomenon involving the redefinition of capitalism by the African and for the African. It is, therefore, no surprise that the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has since 2010, mentored and steered brilliant entrepreneurs all over the continent towards the path of success and legacy.

With the traditional notion of philanthropy revolving around doling out money and gifts with no real long-term goal, the TEF has subverted this narrow view by expanding it to the creation of cogent opportunities for the needy but deserving. The empowerment of the African entrepreneur is and always will be the foundation’s main objective, which was made crystal-clear by the launch of the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme in 2015. Arguably the foundation’s signature initiative, it aims to empower 10,000 African entrepreneurs by 2025 against the backdrop of a $100 million commitment by Tony Elumelu. With footprints in all 54 countries on the continent, the foundation thus far has mentored 15,847 entrepreneurs through its capacity-building Entrepreneurship Programmes.

Various entrepreneurs have won the $5,000 grant from the initiative, and Ghana can also boast of many an entrepreneur whose life has been impacted. Case in point: Nana Amoako-Anin—the founder of Bliss Yoga Accra. Her outfit is one of the few full-service yoga studios in Ghana and West Africa, and 6 years after she won the grant in 2016, her business has grown in diverse ways such as the recruitment of more practitioners in the wellness community to bolster her yoga teaching base. Although the coronavirus pandemic has forced her to shift to online sessions, she remains confident in her business’ growth projections. She is a textbook example of the inherent genius in tapping into a niche market and steadily making it mainstream. Focusing on a relative niche facet of the wellness industry might seem to some as foolhardy, but as Amoako-Anin has proven, all it takes is an innovative streak and diligence for the “Africapitalist” to contribute to Africa’s economic development.

In 2021, the Tony Elumelu Foundation disbursed USD$24.75 million to 5000 African entrepreneurs across Africa for its 2021 Entrepreneurship Programme. Out of this, 132 entrepreneurs were selected from Ghana. The Foundation’s Entrepreneurship Programme remains one of the largest private-sector responses to driving the economic recovery of African youth, women, and SMEs given the effects of the covid19 pandemic across Africa.  Across Africa, the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme beneficiaries are starting and growing trailblazing businesses that have collectively created over 400,000 direct and indirect jobs.

With the 2022 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme in the offing, now is the time for innovative entrepreneurs to apply for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. All it takes is the zeal to cement one’s position as an Africapitalist who desires to facilitate the continent’s economic advancement. Whether big or small, never has there been a better time to seize the day.

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The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme is open to entrepreneurs across Africa: new start-ups and existing young businesses, operating in any sector. Prospective applicants should apply now on the digital networking hub for African entrepreneurs, www.tefconnect.com.

 

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People & Lifestyle

Ghana Welcomes Starlink: Revolutionizing Connectivity

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The National Communications Authority (NCA) in Ghana has recently approved the satellite broadband application of Starlink, a service by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, making Ghana the eighth African country to welcome this revolutionary internet service.

This development is set to challenge existing internet providers in the region, offering multi-gigabit speeds and lower latency through satellite technology.

Users have expressed satisfaction with Starlink’s service, citing significant improvements in speed and reliability compared to traditional providers. The service is currently available in seven African countries: Mozambique, Eswatini, Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigeria.

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This expansion is expected to foster healthy competition and better offers, breaking the monopoly enjoyed by some internet providers. As Starlink continues to expand, it promises to revolutionize network access and connectivity in Africa, providing a much-needed boost to internet access across the continent.

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#AOTY2023: King Promise vs. Stonebwoy

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The debate over King Promise’s candidacy for Artist of the Year has sparked a lively discussion among social media users, with arguments both for and against his potential win.

Supporters highlight his sold-out shows in Asia and the impact of his music, while critics point to other artists like Stonebwoy and Black Sherif, questioning the fairness of the awards process.

The discussion showcases the diverse opinions and passion surrounding the music industry in Ghana and beyond, with users engaging in playful banter and humorous remarks while presenting their arguments.

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‘Dubai in Accra’ set to thrill Ghanaians on Sunday, April 28

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In the heart of Accra, excitement buzzes as the city eagerly anticipates the grand spectacle known as “Dubai in Accra,” set to take place this Sunday 28th April 2024 at the prestigious Stanbic Heights, Icon House Airport. (more…)

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Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s Reign

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Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's Reign

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as the Asantehene, the King of the Ashanti Kingdom.

The celebrations, which began with spectacular fireworks witnessed by Otumfuo himself, will culminate in the Silver Jubilee anniversary on Akwasidaekese on June 12 at Dwabrem, Manhyia Palace.

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This milestone is a testament to Otumfuo’s impactful leadership, dedication to the Asante people, and contributions to education and research as the Chancellor of KNUST.

The event is being celebrated across Ghana, with well-wishes and congratulations pouring in from various quarters, highlighting the significance of this occasion for Asanteman and Ghana as a whole.

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Mr. Beast in Ghana: Surprising Visit Sparks Excitement

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Mr. Beast

World-renowned YouTuber Mr. Beast, known for his philanthropic acts, has been spotted in Ghana, specifically in Accra and Tema, sparking excitement among locals.

His visit has led to discussions about his choice of Ghana over other African countries, with some suggesting that the country’s popularity as a tourist destination played a role.

Mr. Beast’s presence in Ghana is part of his global outreach, as he recently gifted a Ghanaian $25,000 as part of his X (Twitter) giveaway.

Read Also: Producers of 'Beast of No Nation' return to filming in Ghana, causing upset in parliament

The YouTuber has been seen exploring the country and interacting with locals, with many expressing their desire to meet him and participate in his charitable endeavors.

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Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan in MP race for Ayawaso West Wuogon

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Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is set to enter the political fray by rubbing shoulders with notable personalities in the upcoming general elections.

The former Juventus midfielder is believed to be lacing his boots to face the likes of John Dumelo and the incumbent member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Lydia Alhassan.

While Dumelo and Alhassan represents the NDC and NPP respectively, Appiah is expected feature in the elections as an independent candidate.

This was revealed by the Spokesperson of the Ayew family Fiifi Tackie via X on Friday afternoon.

“Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote.

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If Stephen Appiah affirms the reported news, he will be following in the footsteps of other renowned figures in Ghana football who have indulged in politics recently.

Earlier this year, all-time top scorer of the Black Stars Asamoah Gyan was appointed as the sub-committee chair of Youth and Sports in the campaign committee of Dr Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party.

In acceptance of the appointment, Gyan emphasised the need to share hos ideas garnered through experience in the game.

Anas took $100,000 to stop documentary release – Kwesi Nyantakyi
‘I have enough experience to contribute to sports – Asamoah Gyan reacts to political appointment
“I always ask myself, how do we create change if we don’t want to change? How do we spectate without being on the bench, and how do we score without being on the field?… All I know and will ever know, all I love and will ever love is SPORTS.” he stated.

Another figure in Ghana football who recently announced his intention to engage in partisan politics is Kwesi Nyantakyi, former Ghana Football Association (GFA).

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The former football administrator showed up as one of the candidates to contest in the NPP primaries for the Ejisu constituency following the demise of incumbent John Kumah.

However, it didn’t pan out well for the former Wa All Stars owner as he lost disappointingly.

He garnered a paltry 35 votes after close to 1,081 delegates had cast their votes in the parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held in the Ejisu Constituency on April 13.

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