Patoranking Foundation, a non-profit organisation on a mission to advance Africa through education, entrepreneurship and empowerment, has announced the launch of the $500,000 Patoranking Foundation Tech Scholarships. In a strategic partnership with ALX Africa, a leading provider of tech training, the scholarships will provide 40 young tech-savvy Africans with access to a variety of transformative technology programmes in data analytics, cloud computing and Salesforce Administration. The partnership is aimed at preparing the scholars to become the next pioneers in technology.

Founded by African musician, Patrick Okorie aka Patoranking, the Patoranking Foundation utilises research, advocacy and partnerships to provide transformative educational programs and market-ready entrepreneurial skills to outstanding young leaders in Africa. Having invested over $1 million on youth education in Africa over the last six years, the introduction of a $500,000 tech scholarship in partnership with ALX Africa, marks a new chapter in the Foundation’s mission. From 30th May 2024, 40 exceptional candidates will stand the chance to participate in world-class tech training programmes, developing in-demand tech skills sought after by leading global employers. 

Candidates will ideally already be changemakers in their community, and as part of their scholarship, will have the opportunity to qualify for internship opportunities with leading global tech companies to bridge the gap between theory and real-life practice. The tech scholarship is open to candidates from all over Africa. Candidates will be required to successfully complete the ALX admissions process and  beneficiaries will be selected after a review of the individual application videos and essays submitted on the foundation’s website. 

Speaking on the partnership, Patrick Okorie, Founder, Patoranking Foundation, said: “ At Patoranking Foundation, we are dedicated to advancing Africa through education and entrepreneurship.  In the past, we have done this by providing academic scholarships to exceptional African students at all levels and have now partnered with ALX Africa to announce technology scholarships. ALX Africa shares our commitment to empower tomorrow’s leaders via access to advanced digital skills that are critical to future employability and entrepreneurship and we are delighted to partner with them. This step takes us closer to our goal of equipping one million Africans within the next 10 years. At Patoranking Foundation, we are ardent believers in the abundance of exceptional talents and changemakers in Africa, and will continue to challenge the financial inequalities that threaten the emergence of the next generation of African disruptors.”

The Patoranking Foundation has leveraged partnerships to provide promising young leaders with access to leading educational institutions under its Sky Level Initiative. In 2020, the Foundation awarded full scholarships to 10 scholars from eight African countries, including Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Liberia, to enable them to study at the African Leadership University (ALU) in Rwanda or Mauritius. At the primary and secondary education level, 170 young pupils are currently on scholarship in five leading schools in Ebonyi state, Nigeria, the founder’s home state.  This $500,000 tech partnership with ALX Africa will be open to youths from all parts of Africa, aged between 18 and 34, at no cost with all related fees covered.  Beneficiaries can choose to learn fully remotely or at any of ALX Africa’s hubs in Johannesburg, Accra, Lagos, Casablanca, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Kigali and Cairo.

Commenting on the partnership, celebrated educator and entrepreneur Fred Swaniker, Founder of ALX Africa, said: “In today’s world of AI and Big Data, young people need to be prepared for uncertainty; they need to be agile and adaptable. ALX’s tech programmes have been built around our belief in the importance of reimagining and redesigning skills training to meet the challenges and opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Through our collaboration with Patoranking Foundation, we hope to empower tomorrow’s tech disruptors and innovative community leaders with the most in-demand hard and soft skills to solve the problems of the continent and beyond.” 

Patoranking continues to leverage his influence to nurture Africa’s entrepreneurial passion, ready to accelerate transformative change to the nations and the continent. By selecting resilient and innovative community changemakers for the tech scholarships, the Patoranking Foundation is equipping Africa’s young leaders with much needed digital skills to scale local impact and providing them with useful connections for collaborations. Through its concerted efforts, the Foundation hopes to create a ripple effect of change, empowering the youth to become architects of their own futures and catalysts for progress within their communities.  To apply, please visit:patoranking.alxafrica.com

Introduction to DVDFab

Are you ready to take your DVD and Blu-ray experience to the next level? Look no further than DVDFab, the ultimate all-in-one software for all your digital media needs. Whether you’re a movie enthusiast, a video editing pro, or just looking to customize your DVD collection, DVDFab has got you covered.

With DVDFab, you can easily download, install, and set up the software for optimal performance in just a few simple steps. Once you’re up and running, you’ll have access to a wide range of features that will revolutionize the way you interact with your digital media. From ripping DVDs to converting video formats, creating customized discs to enjoying 4K UHD playback, DVDFab has everything you need to bring your media collection to life.

Downloading and Installing DVDFab

Are you ready to take your DVD and Blu-ray game to the next level? Look no further than DVDFab, the ultimate all-in-one solution for all your media needs. To get started, follow these simple steps to download and install DVDFab on your device.

Visit the DVDFab Website: First things first, head over to the official DVDFab website to download the latest version of the software. You can choose to try out the free trial version or purchase a license for full access to all features.

Download DVDFab: Once you’re on the website, locate the download button and click on it to initiate the download process. The file size is relatively small, so you won’t have to wait long before it’s saved to your device.

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Ripping DVDs with DVDFab

Are you tired of dealing with scratched or damaged DVDs that make it impossible to enjoy your favorite movies or TV shows? With dvdfab 使い方, ripping your DVDs has never been easier. Whether you want to create digital backups of your collection or transfer your DVDs to other devices, DVDFab provides a simple and efficient solution.

To get started, simply open DVDFab and insert the DVD you wish to rip into your computer’s drive. DVDFab will automatically detect the disc and display all available titles and chapters. From there, you can select the specific content you want to rip or choose to rip the entire disc.

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Not only does DVDFab make it easy to rip your DVDs, but it also offers advanced customization options. You can select your preferred audio and subtitle tracks, adjust the video quality, and even add your own watermarks or subtitles.

With DVDFab, ripping DVDs is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to create digital copies of your favorite films or transfer your DVDs to your smartphone or tablet, DVDFab has you covered. Say goodbye to damaged discs and hello to seamless, high-quality digital copies with DVDFab.

Creating customized DVD and Blu-ray discs

When it comes to creating personalized DVD and Blu-ray discs, DVDFab offers a plethora of options to help you bring your vision to life. Whether you want to compile a collection of your favorite movies, create a special gift for a loved one, or showcase your own creative content, DVDFab makes the process seamless and enjoyable.

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Utilizing DVDFab for 4K UHD Playback

When it comes to experiencing crystal-clear visuals and stunning detail, 4K UHD playback is the way to go. With DVDFab, you can take your viewing experience to the next level by utilizing its advanced features for 4K UHD playback.

DVDFab provides seamless support for 4K UHD discs, allowing you to enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows in stunning high definition. Whether you’re watching a blockbuster movie or a captivating TV series, DVDFab ensures that every frame is displayed in exceptional clarity.

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In conclusion, if you’re looking to make the most of your 4K UHD content, DVDFab is the ultimate tool for flawless playback. With its cutting-edge features and user-friendly interface, DVDFab elevates your viewing experience to new heights, allowing you to appreciate every pixel in stunning clarity.

The African Development Bank Group unveiled its new Ten-Year Strategy 2024–2033 today, a blueprint to confront Africa’s pressing challenges and to help put the continent firmly back on track towards sustained economic growth and prosperity.

Unveiling the strategy during the Bank Group’s Annual Meetings in Nairobi, Kenya, African Development Bank Group President Akinwumi Adesina said, “As Africa’s premier development finance institution, and Africa’s solutions bank, we are acutely aware that the next decade will be decisive in transforming the continent. Therefore, as we celebrate 60 years of making a difference in the countries and lives of the people of Africa, we remain resolute in our determination to accelerate the support we provide to African countries.”

The aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in heightened food insecurity and a burgeoning debt crisis across Africa. At the same time, the impacts of climate change are intensifying and accelerating, alongside a surge in conflict and political instability. Compounded by a youthful demographic outpacing job creation, Africa is witnessing a significant exodus of its future workforce seeking opportunities abroad.

The strategy, approved by the Board earlier this year, sets out decisive and urgent actions the Bank will take to support African countries navigate the unprecedented global and regional challenges. These actions will build on Africa’s multiple unique assets and reignite momentum towards achieving the African Union’s Agenda 2063(link is external) and the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, ultimately fostering lasting growth.

Central to the 2024–2033 strategic vision is the belief in Africa’s vast potential for societal and economic transformation. By leveraging the youngest and fastest growing workforce in the world, rapidly growing urban markets, the wealth of natural resources and vast clean energy potential, Africa stands poised to drive sustainable growth and make significant contributions to global solutions over the next decade.

Read Also: AfDBAM2024: African nations urged to enhance private sector financing for tertiary education

“The Ten-Year Strategy outlines how the Bank will invest in Africa’s best asset: its vibrant young men and women. Africa’s population, which is the fast growing in the world, presents the continent with an unparalleled demographic window of opportunity,” Adesina said.

The new strategy articulates a vision of a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and integrated Africa, underpinned by two key objectives over the next decade: accelerating inclusive green growth and fostering prosperous and resilient economies. With an emphasis on sustainability, the Bank will strive to balance environmental concerns, equity, and economic advancement.

Building upon the past decade of successful High 5 implementation, the Bank aims to accelerate and scale up its efforts, focusing on transformative projects with far-reaching impacts. To optimise results while managing risks, the Bank will streamline its operational model for increased agility and effectiveness. The Bank’s High 5 operational priorities listed below, are integral to achieving these objectives:

• Light up and power Africa: Promote universal access to modern and affordable energy.
• Feed Africa: Ensure food security through agricultural transformation.
• Industrialise Africa: Catalyse manufacturing as a critical driver of job creation.
• Integrate Africa: Foster regional integration and value chains for a more cohesive economy.
• Improve the quality of life: Enhance living standards, particularly for women and youth.

Key cross-cutting priorities include promoting gender equality, investing in young people, responding to climate change, and investing in climate action, supporting fragile states, and promoting good governance and economic stability.

The Bank sees the pivotal role of the private sector in driving Africa’s transformation. Over the next decade, it will strengthen collaboration with the private sector, prioritising investments in firms, value chains, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises especially those led by women and youth.

The magnitude and urgency of the challenge will require greater resources than before. The Bank pledges to mobilise resources from diverse sources, including domestic revenues and private finance. It aims to triple private-sector finance by 2033 while bolstering its financing capacity through innovative mechanisms. In response to calls for Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to maximise the potential of their balance sheets, the Bank will pursue various options to boost its financing capacity over the life of the Ten-Year Strategy. Measures include the Sustainable Hybrid Capital, Risk Transfers and re-channeling of significant portions of the International Monetary Fund’s Special Drawing Rights through Multilateral Development Banks.

The Strategy outlines how the Bank will answer the call for MDBs to scale up urgently their efforts to respond to the priorities and significant ambitions of African countries and tackle global and regional challenges affecting the people of Africa. MDBs are essential to addressing the immense global and regional challenges the world faces. They are a valuable source of low-cost finance, technical knowledge, and policy advice for emerging and developing countries.

Highlights of the Strategy:

• Investing in women and young people: The Ten-Year Strategy outlines how the Bank will invest in Africa’s best asset: its vibrant young men and women. Africa’s population, which is the youngest and fastest growing in the world, presents the continent with an unparalleled demographic window of opportunity. The Bank will address disparities and promote inclusivity by empowering women and youth, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to sustainable economic growth and prosperous societies.
• Climate change adaptation: Recognising Africa’s vulnerability to climate change, the Bank will promote low-carbon development pathways aligned with the Paris Agreement while safeguarding biodiversity and nature.
• Supporting fragile states and building resilience: Amid rising conflicts, fragility, and political instability in Africa, the Bank will intensify efforts to assist fragile countries. Special attention will be given to tackling cross-border challenges and reducing the isolation of landlocked and remote areas.
• Promoting good governance: The Bank emphasises the importance of economic governance, including domestic resource mobilisation, transparent financial management, and anti-corruption measures. Sustainable debt management practices will also be prioritised to ensure long-term economic stability.

Read the Ten-Year Strategy 2024–2033 here

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has presented essential items to support the upkeep of immigrants at Krisan Refugee Camp at Krisan Town, in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region.

The items consist of 100 bags of 25 kilograms (kg) rice, 25 cartons of canned fish, 100 carton of cooking oil, 100 buckets of tomato paste, 500 pieces of mosquito nets as well as 500 students’ mattresses and 300 bags of sachet water. “All these items are coming from the contributions of individuals from our branches in Ghana, Africa and across the world through our Humanitarian Aid,” President Christopher L. Morgan, of The Churches of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Ghana Cape Coast Mission explained. 

Also, he said: “We give 10 percent of our tithes to the Church and we believe in alms, fasting, prophesying of faith and great pilgrims among others. We offer support to help and bless all God’s children, we do what the Saviour Jesus Christ will do and I am honoured to be here with my wife Christine Morgan, to present these items.”

Church of Jesus Christ donation to Krisan Refugee Camp

He mentioned that the missionaries of the Church, have been of great support to the camp and prayed all who contributed to this worthy course will be blessed abundantly. “We believe these items will make you stronger as well as the communities stronger. We pray these items will be a blessing upon you and we will encourage you to share with others for God to give us more,” President Morgan said.

Emmanuel Akonful, Krisan Refugee Camp Manager was grateful to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for the support. “The Church has been supporting the camp for some time now and I urge other organizations to follow suits for the immigrants to have a comfortable life,” he said.

He explained that the camp was set up in 1996, with some immigrants from Liberia following the conflict that distabilised the country. They settled at a town called Sanzule in the Ellembelle District and within three months, they moved to their present location at Krisan. “Currently, the refugees here are about 900, coming from 16 African countries such as Togo, Sudan, Congo, Liberia, Sierra Leone among others. They are funded by the Government of Ghana, partnered by the United Nations and other organizations,” he further explained.

Like any other settlement, he said there has been a cordial relationship with the host communities. There are schools here, a clinic, a Police Station as well as a community centre that makes their lives lively.

However, he said the camp is in need of additional shelter, a library, and related amenities. “With the conflicts ranging in Sudan, Congo and other counties in the sub-region, there are refugees trooping in here. Therefore, we are appealing to cooperate organizations, church bodies as well as some philanthropists to support us from time to time since government alone cannot shoulder all the responsibilities,” Mr. Akonful added. 

Church of Jesus Christ donation to Krisan Refugee Camp

American Express and Ecobank Group, the leading pan-African financial services Group, announced an agreement to significantly expand American Express Card acceptance in twenty-one countries across Africa.

Through this agreement, American Express Card Members will be able to use their Cards in twelve new countries: Burundi, Central African Republic, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Niger, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Togo. Additionally, the number of merchants accepting American Express Card payments will increase in nine further countries where American Express acceptance already exists: Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.  Acceptance in these countries will be rolled out over the next 12 months.  Ecobank will also provide ATM acceptance for American Express in all countries where they operate in Africa (with the exception of Cape Verde).

The agreement, which was announced at the African Development Bank Group Annual Meetings 2024, will strengthen the American Express global network by increasing the number of locations where American Express Card Members can use their Cards in Sub-Saharan Africa. The agreement will also enable merchants to attract business from a new customer base of American Express consumer, business and corporate Card Members in Africa and around the world.

“We are delighted to welcome American Express to our network, reinforcing our commitment to offering innovative payments solutions for customers across Africa,” said Jeremy Awori, CEO of Ecobank Group. “This agreement will benefit American Express Card Members, providing them with greater choice and will help merchants to grow their businesses. It also highlights the scalability of Ecobank’s unrivalled borderless banking ecosystem and network across Africa.”

Mohammed Badi, President of Global Network Services at American Express, commented: “This agreement with Ecobank is a major milestone for American Express acceptance across Africa as it will expand our presence in sub-Saharan Africa to 42 countries from 30 at present. With Ecobank’s support, we look forward to providing merchants in these countries access to higher-spending American Express Card Members both in Africa and from around the world.”

This collaboration aligns with Ecobank’s Growth, Transformation and Returns strategic agenda. Ecobank is committed to offering its retail customers innovative and easy-to-use financial solutions through its unified banking platform across Africa.

So, you’re thinking about growing your own marijuana at home? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Growing cannabis can be a fun and rewarding hobby, not to mention a great way to ensure a steady supply of high-quality bud. But before you start planting seeds willy-nilly, there are some important things to keep in mind.

What Does the Law Say?

First things first, if you’ve got a plan to grow marijuana, make sure growing it is legal where you live! Laws vary widely by location. In some places, it’s totally legal to grow a few plants for personal use. In other areas, growing even one plant could land you in serious trouble. So do your research and understand the risks before you start cultivating cannabis.

Where Are You Going To Grow Your Plants?

Now that you know it’s ok to start your hobby legally, you’ll need to set up your grow space. If you’re a beginner, a small grow area that’s easy to control, like a closet or small tent, is a good idea. Make sure your space is clean, light-tight, and well-ventilated.  Invest in some basic equipment like grow lights, fans, and perhaps a carbon filter to manage odors.

What Plants Should You Grow?

Next up, you’ll need to decide on your plants. Novices should consider starting with clones or seedlings rather than seeds, as they can be a bit easier. Feminized seeds are also a good option to ensure your plants are female (male plants don’t produce buds). There are countless strains to choose from with different flavors, effects, and growing characteristics. Do some research to find a strain that appeals to you and suits your grow setup.

Dial In Your Growing Conditions

To grow quality bud, you’ll need to master a few key environmental factors:

Light – Cannabis plants need lots of bright light, especially in the flowering stage. Most growers use powerful grow lights like LEDs or HIDs. Make sure to keep lights at the proper distance to avoid burning your plants.

Temperature – The ideal temperature range is 70-85°F when lights are on, and 10-15°F cooler when they’re off. Use fans, AC, or heaters to maintain proper temps.

Humidity – Seedlings and young plants prefer higher humidity around 60-70%. Dial it down to 40-50% by the late flowering stage to prevent mold and boost resin production.

Airflow – Good airflow strengthens stems and helps prevent mold and pests. Set up fans to gently rustle plant leaves.

How Much and What Do I Feed/Water the Plants?

How you water and feed your plants has a big impact on their growth and health. Overwatering is a common mistake – wait until the top inch of soil feels dry, then drench until a bit of water runs out the bottom of the pot.

Cannabis plants are heavy feeders, so you’ll need to feed them nutrients regularly. Use a marijuana-specific nutrient line and follow the instructions. It’s better to slightly underfeed than overfeed and burn your plants. Flush with plain water for the final week or two before harvest to improve flavor.

Harvest Time!

After a few months of hard work, it will finally be time to reap your rewards! Most strains are ready to harvest about 7-10 weeks after forcing flowering. Use a jeweler’s loupe or microscope to examine the trichomes (sticky glands on buds). Harvest when they turn milky white and amber.

Carefully cut down branches, trim off leaves, and hang buds to dry until stems snap instead of bend. Finally, cure buds in airtight glass jars for 2 weeks up to a few months to enhance taste and potency. Then, sit back and savor the fruits of your labor!

Growing cannabis has a bit of a learning curve, but it’s a fun and fascinating hobby. By starting small, doing your research, and paying attention to your plants, you’ll be well on your way to producing a stellar stash.