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Akua Gyekye writes on how Facebook Is Supporting Elections Across Africa

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Our work in supporting elections across Africa continues to be a priority and we’ve dedicated unprecedented resources to these efforts both locally and globally, with protecting election integrity at the center of this work. This update provides an overview of our ongoing work in reducing misinformation and removing voter suppression, preventing election interference, supporting civic engagement and increasing transparency in political advertising.

Here’s what you need to know about some of the steps we’re taking:

Combating Misinformation and False News
We’re working hard to fight the spread of misinformation on our services because we know that people want to see accurate information on Facebook and Instagram – and so do we. Our updated policies allow us to remove misinformation which could lead to imminent violence or physical harm, and also remove misinformation which could prevent people from voting, such as false news related to the dates, location, time, and voting methods. Over the past year we’ve expanded our work with independent fact-checking organisations  across Africa to review and rate the accuracy of content shared on Facebook and Instagram. We work with organisations such as Dubawa, Africa Check, Pesa Check, AFP, Congo Check and France 24 – all of which are certified by the International Fact Checking Network. The program now covers 18 countries across Sub-Saharan Africa and also supports local languages such as Swahili, Wolof, Igbo, Yoruba, Zulu and Setswana.

Boosting Digital Literacy and Helping People Spot False News
We want to make sure people can spot false news and know how to alert us about it. That’s why we continue to run campaigns focused on providing educational tips on how to spot false news like ‘Three Questions To Help Stamp Out False News’ . These campaigns are supported in local languages and run across both local radio and on Facebook. We are also continuing to run education ads focused on hate speech, how it’s defined and actions users can take.

Making Political Ads More Transparent
We believe political discussion and debate should be transparent to every voter, which is why over the past few years we’ve introduced tools that provide more information about political ads on Facebook and Instagram. Since launching our political ads transparency tool in 2019, we’ve expanded this to cover a number of countries across Sub-Saharan Africa. We encourage anybody who wants to run ads about elections or politics to go through a verification process to prove who they are and that they live in the country they are targeting, and in a growing number of countries across Sub-Saharan Africa we have made this process mandatory. We run additional checks to ensure compliance with our policies, and every political ad is labelled with a “paid by” disclaimer so you can see who paid for them. We also store all political ads in our Ads Library  so that everyone can see what ads are running, who saw the ads and how much was spent. These changes mean that political advertising on Facebook and Instagram is now more transparent than other forms of election campaigning such as billboards, newspaper ads, direct mail, leaflets or targeted emails.

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Promoting Civic Engagement
Helping to build informed and civically engaged communities is central to our work around elections. For example, in countries like Ghana, Ivory Coast and Guinea we’ve engaged in conversations with civic stakeholders such as the Electoral Commissions and civil society organisations to focus on how Facebook can be a positive tool for civic engagement and the steps they can take to stay safe while using our platforms. We’ve also conducted virtual trainings on ads enforcement and civic engagement with political parties in these same countries. We continue to roll out a number of products and features across Facebook and Instagram, including Election Day reminders at the top of Facebook’s News Feed to encourage people to vote, and Security Megaphones to remind page admins of political groups to further secure their accounts using Two-Factor Authentication . We’ve also trained parties, and candidates on security best practices, and how to avoid common threats online.

Keeping People Safe
Keeping people safe on Facebook and Instagram is always our top priority and this is especially important during elections. Since 2016 we have tripled the size of the teams working on safety and security to more than 35,000 people. We’ve hired more systems engineers, security experts and content reviewers, including native language speakers in Swahili, Amharic, Zulu, Somali, Oromo and Hausa, to name a few examples. We’ve also pioneered the use of artificial intelligence to find and remove harmful content more quickly. Between April and June of this year we removed over 15 million pieces of graphic and violent content globally, detecting over 99% proactively, before anyone had to report it.

Our efforts to keep people safe also include using different tools to mitigate harmful content from certain accounts and as hate speech evolves. To further limit the spread of potentially inflammatory content, we continue to temporarily demote content in the News Feeds of users in Ethiopia, and other countries across Africa if it comes from those who repeatedly and severely violate our policies, whether or not those repeat violators are located in the country.

As we do in other languages, we’ve also started using our technology to stay ahead of new trends in hate speech in Amharic and Oromo. We identify new forms of potentially violating speech that hasn’t yet been reviewed for possible removal from our platform and demote this content to reduce the risk of it going viral or inciting violence or hatred, taking local context into account.

Our Partnerships with NGOs and Civil Society
Alongside our local experts on the continent, we continue to work on-the-ground with NGOs and civil society across many African countries to enable us to better understand challenges and how we can tackle them more effectively. This work continues to be instrumental, with local partners giving us feedback that we incorporate into our policies and programs.

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We’re committed to making Facebook and Instagram places where people feel safe, can access accurate and transparent information and, most importantly, make their voices heard.

By Akua Gyekye, Facebook’s Public Policy Manager, Africa Elections

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People & Lifestyle

Dubai Apartment Hunting Made Easy: Your Guide to Finding the Ideal Home

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Rent In Dubai

No doubt the real estate market in Dubai is unstoppable. Looking for the perfect apartment in this vibrant city has become increasingly competitive and complex. 

With a myriad of choices available, including luxury high-rise developments, waterfront resort-style properties, and suburban communities, finding the ideal apartment requires careful thinking of several factors that come into play: the right location, amenities, allocated budget, and future market trends. 

Here, we explore the essential steps and strategies for finding ideal apartments for sale in Dubai.

Get to know Dubai’s Real Estate market

Before embarking on the search, try to gain a comprehensive understanding of the real estate market in the city. Dubai’s real estate sector is highly saturated and known for its dynamic nature, with diverse offerings catering to various preferences and lifestyles. 

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The evolving market is influenced by aspects such as economic growth, government policies, and global trends, all of which may impact property prices, demand, and supply.

One of the key considerations when navigating the market trends and reports is the concept of freehold ownership, which allows expats and foreign investors to own property in designated areas of the city. Understanding the magnitude of freehold ownership and leasehold and off-plan properties is just as important. 

Round off your best preferences and needs

The quest for the perfect apartment begins with a clear map of your preferences, lifestyle, and needs. Taking into account the desired location, property size, amenities, public transport, and budget will serve as the foundation for your search. Dubai offers diverse residential options, from urban high-rises in the heart of the city to tranquil suburban communities. 

Researching neighbourhoods and property developments

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Renowned for its diverse array of neighbourhoods and developments, Dubai offers a unique living experience. Conducting thorough research on different areas and projects will help you narrow down your search and focus on locations that align with your lifestyle. 

You can explore upscale communities like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), and Palm Jumeirah area, known for their waterfront living, fancy amenities, family-centric and vibrant atmospheres. 

Consider upcoming developments and emerging areas that may present promising investment opportunities or desirable living spaces. Dubai South, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Mohammed Bin Rashid City are witnessing rapid growth and are set to redefine the city’s residential landscape in the coming years.

Reaching out to Real Estate professionals and agents

Navigating the Dubai real estate market can be complex, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the local scene. So, engaging with reputable real estate professionals, such as licensed agents and property consultants, can greatly help with your search. 

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Real estate professionals have expert knowledge of the market, negotiating deals, navigating legal procedures, and access to a wide property portfolio. When seeking the assistance of a real estate agent, make sure they are registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and stick to professional standards and ethics. 

Assessing property amenities and facilities

When evaluating potential apartments try to assess the amenities and facilities offered within the development. Modern residential complexes usually come with an extensive list of amenities, ranging from state-of-the-art fitness centers and swimming pools, and fast-moving elevators to landscaped gardens, children’s play areas, and recreational spaces for social gatherings. 

Also, take note of the quality of facilities; the design and maintenance of common areas, the availability of parking spaces, and the overall ambiance whether it is safe. 

Evaluating investment potential and future growth

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Buying an apartment in Dubai comes down to two things: residential investment and a financial opportunity. So, gauging the investment potential and future growth prospects of a property is imperative during the decision-making process, especially if you consider long-term ownership or rental income.

Make sure to keep an eye on the development plans and infrastructure projects in the vicinity, and the overall growth rotation of the neighbourhood or district. By conducting an investment landscape analysis, an informed decision can be made. 

Navigating through the legal paperwork and financial considerations

The process of purchasing an apartment involves a series of legal and financial estimations that mandate due diligence and attention. In Dubai, property transactions are generally regulated by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), which oversees the registration of real estate transactions, the issuance of title deeds, and property laws and regulations. 

Familiarize yourself with the legal procedures involved in property purchase, including property title verification, sales agreement completion, and the payment of transfer fees and taxes. You can get in touch with financial institutions and mortgage advisors to explore financing options, interest rates, and repayment terms that align with your financial capacity.

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Conducting property viewings and inspections

After shortlisting potential apartments take the time to conduct property viewings and inspections to properly assess the actual suitability of the units. Schedule viewings with real estate agents to gain firsthand experience of the apartment, its layout, and the surrounding environment.

Pay attention to the quality of finishes, the functionality of fixtures and appliances, and the overall maintenance of the unit. Assess factors such as natural lighting, ventilation, views from the apartment, noise levels, and privacy within the building.

Negotiating purchase pay of your preferred apartment

Now is the time to make an informed decision and proceed with the purchase process. Take a final look at the overall value proposition of the property, its alignment with your preferences and lifestyle, and the potential for future appreciation and returns. 

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Seek to strike a balance between your budgetary constraints and the perceived property value, along with benefits or incentives that are included in the deal.

Finalizing the purchase and property transfer

The next step is completing the necessary legal and financial procedures to fully transfer ownership of the property. This process can involve preparing and signing the sales contract, the payment of the purchase price, and the property registration with the Dubai Land Department. 

Reach out to legal advisors or conveyancing professionals to assist you with the contract review and if it adheres to local regulations. After that,  the keys to your new home will be handed over.

Final Thoughts

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Buying an apartment in Dubai is a multi-faceted journey that demands thorough research, careful consideration, and informed decision-making. Whether it is a luxurious waterfront residence, a contemporary urban abode, or a serene suburban retreat you’re looking for, Dubai offers a diverse range of options to cater to your aspirations and lifestyle. 

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People & Lifestyle

MTN GHANA’S CFO ANTOINETTE KWOFIE HONOURED AT THE 2024 WOMEN OF IMPACT AWARDS

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MTN GHANA’S CFO ANTOINETTE KWOFIE HONOURED AT THE 2024 WOMEN OF IMPACT AWARDS

Antoinette Kwofie, Chief Finance Officer of MTN Ghana, has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Women of Impact Honourees by Evoke Impact. This award celebrates outstanding women who have made significant contributions to their industries and communities through their consistent dedication to work. It also honours women who have broken barriers in non-traditional roles and are paving the way for future generations of female leaders.

The citation presented to Antoinette reads—”It is with great honor and admiration that Evoke Impact recognizes you as one of the Outstanding Woman of Impact 2024, celebrating your outstanding achievements and transformative leadership in the field of finance.

As an Executive Director and Chief Finance Officer of MTN Ghana, you have shattered barriers and set new standards of excellence in the industry. Your visionary leadership, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to driving financial innovation have not only propelled MTN Ghana to new heights but have also inspired countless individuals in Ghana and beyond.

Your passion for excellence, coupled with your tireless advocacy for women’s empowerment, has earned you numerous accolades and recognition, including CFO of the Year, Woman CFO of the Year, and Finance Personality of the Year. Your impact extends far beyond the boardroom, as you continue to mentor and empower the next generation of female leaders”.

Antoinette expressed her appreciation to the organizers for recognizing her with the Women of Impact award. She promised to continue to support and mentor young women to help them advance in their professional careers. The award ceremony was hosted by Evoke Impact and was attended by prominent individuals, dignitaries, and change-makers in Ghana.

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AMVCA: Tune In for a Night of Elegance and Achievement this Saturday on Africa Magic

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Call to watch Main Event 2

The anticipation is palpable as the 10th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, scheduled for 11 May 2024, in Lagos approaches. Viewers are invited to witness the splendour of this prestigious event, broadcasting live on Africa Magic from 3pm on DStv and GOtv.

Reflecting the rich diversity and innovation of African cinema and television, this year’s awards promise some thrilling adjustments with the introduction of exciting new categories such as Best Actor and Best Actress in leading or supporting roles. With a total of 27 categories, including 16 non-voting and 9 audience voting categories, along with two esteemed recognition awards the Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer Awards – there’s ample opportunity to honour exceptional African talent.

Kicking off the festivities with a prime view of the red carpet hosted by celebrity personalities Toke Makinwa and Uti Nwachukwu viewers can watch the continent’s biggest stars strut their stuff in dazzling creations from some of Africa’s most talented fashion designers from 3pm before settling into the prestigious awards at 6pm.

The main award will be hosted by renowned television host and current host of Nigerian Idols IK Osakioduwa and will feature musical performances from Nigeria’s popular performers Seyi Sodimu, Shaffy Bello, Adekunle Gold, KCee, Chike and Congolese soukous singer Awilo Logomba throughout the awards ceremony.

Save the date for this Saturday, 11 May, and tune in for the live broadcast across all Africa Magic Channels on DStv and GOtv. Don’t miss this remarkable celebration of African creativity and achievement!

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Keep your DStv subscription activated to ensure you don’t miss the star-studded event! To upgrade, reconnect or manage your subscription download the MyDStv app on your mobile app store or visit www.dstv.com to join in on the excitement and manage your account. You can also catch all the action while on the move. Stream all content on the DStv Stream app by downloading it from the app store. 

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Richard Strauss-Ashiaby, the Best-Graduating Student from UniMAC-IJ, Gets the Hollard Prize

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Richard Strauss-Ashiaby

Hollard Ghana, the country’s favourite insurer, has honoured Richard Della Strauss-Ashiaby, the valedictorian from the University of Media, Arts and Communication-IJ (UniMAC-IJ), with the Hollard Prize during the 2nd Congregation held in Accra.

To commemorate this remarkable achievement, Roswitha Adjoa Amoako, Head of Group Business at Hollard Life, presented Richard with the Hollard Prize, including a laptop, a citation, and a cash prize during the ceremony.

Speaking after the event, Cynthia Ofori-Dwumfuo, Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, commended Richard on his notable feat.

“We are thrilled to join in celebrating Richard Della Strauss-Ashiaby on his well-deserved award as the overall best-graduating student from the University of Media, Arts and Communications-IJ. At Hollard, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and shape the future. By supporting talented individuals like Richard, we are investing in the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change in our society, thus enabling better futures”, she stated.

Commenting on the award, the recipient, Richard, expressed his deep gratitude, saying, “I am truly humbled about this award, not only for the just-ended ceremony but also for the long-term partnership between Hollard and UNIMAC-IJ. I hope this award will inspire students to strive for excellence and positively impact their fields. Thank you, Hollard Ghana, for this incredible opportunity”.

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Since its inception in 2022, the Hollard X Academia program has significantly improved the lives of numerous students and fostered a culture of excellence and innovation. This comprehensive initiative, which includes the Hollard Prize, Scholar Programme, Streetwise Finance engagement sessions, and Corporate Experience, is a testament to our commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders. 

Anatasia Nana Aba Acquah, Gwendy Tetteh, Joshua Seidu Adams, and Sandra Kumah are some of the past beneficiaries of the Hollard Prize since its inception.

The country’s favourite insurance group is Hollard Ghana, with subsidiaries Hollard Insurance and Hollard Life Assurance. The group combines its deep local knowledge of the market, having previously operated in Ghana for 25 years as Metropolitan Insurance, with the world-class expertise of an international insurance brand in 18 countries worldwide. With feet firmly planted on Ghanaian soil but headquartered in South Africa, Hollard delivers innovative insurance solutions customised to the unique risks Ghanaians face. Hollard offers various life and general insurance products, including funeral, personal accident, motor, business, travel, home, and more, and can be reached via 0307000599. Beyond various nationwide office branches and Hollard 2U franchise shops, Ghanaians can find Hollard at Shell Fuel Station Welcome Shops, Melcom stores and online at www.hollard.com.gh, www.melcom.com/hollard-insurance and www.jumia.com.gh for all their insurance needs.

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Tech Talent Wars: Strategies to Retain Top Employees in a Hybrid World

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The hybrid work model, a blend of in-office and remote working, has reshaped how businesses operate and compete for top tech talent.

As technology companies embrace this approach, they’re also facing intense challenges in retaining skilled employees. The rise of remote work has broadened the competitive landscape, and companies must adapt their retention strategies to secure the best talent. This article explores how tech companies can retain top employees in a hybrid world, focusing on the challenges to hire Solana developers and the role of the best recruitment agencies in Perth.

The Hybrid Work Environment and Tech Talent Retention Challenges

A hybrid work model offers flexibility, but it also introduces new challenges:

  • Remote Burnout: Blurring lines between work and home can lead to overwork, fatigue, and eventual burnout, making employees feel disconnected.
  • Lack of Engagement: Reduced face-to-face interaction can cause disengagement, diminishing collaboration and morale.
  • Increased Competition: Hybrid work allows companies worldwide to recruit across borders, intensifying competition for specialized talent.
  • Strategies to Retain Top Tech Employees in a Hybrid World

To overcome these challenges, businesses can implement specific strategies to retain their tech workforce:

  • Flexible Work Policies: Allow employees to choose when and where they work best, providing them with the autonomy they value.
  • Career Growth Opportunities: Establish clear career paths and offer training programs that align with individual goals, helping employees visualize their future with the company.
  • Recognition and Rewards: Create recognition programs to celebrate achievements and offer tangible rewards for exceptional performance, whether through bonuses or additional leave.
  • Fostering Connection: Organize virtual team-building activities and maintain regular check-ins to nurture a sense of connection despite the physical distance.
  • Inclusive Culture: Embrace diversity and implement policies that prioritize employee well-being to foster a supportive environment.

Hiring Solana Developers: A Niche Challenge

Blockchain technology, particularly the Solana platform, is experiencing rapid growth, making the search to hire Solana developers competitive. Retaining these specialists requires a thoughtful approach:

  • Training and Upskilling Opportunities: Offer opportunities for continuous learning and skill enhancement to keep Solana developers at the forefront of their field.
  • Innovative Projects: Provide challenging and creative projects that push developers’ boundaries and satisfy their desire for meaningful work.
  • Community and Collaboration: Encourage collaboration and create opportunities to share knowledge and insights within a supportive developer community.

Best Recruitment Agencies in Perth and Their Role in Retaining Talent

Perth has become a competitive tech market, and the best recruitment agencies in Perth are pivotal in helping businesses find and keep top talent:

  • Deep Market Knowledge: They provide insights into local market trends, emerging skills, and salary expectations.
  • Networking and Candidate Relationships: Agencies build strong relationships with candidates to understand their goals and find roles aligned with their career aspirations.
  • Consulting Services: They guide companies on best practices for onboarding, engagement, and retention, offering strategies tailored to each company’s specific needs.
  • Final Tips and Recommendations for Retaining Top Tech Talent

To ensure businesses retain their tech talent in a hybrid work world:

  • Prioritize Communication: Keep communication lines open between leadership and employees, ensuring clarity about goals and expectations.
  • Continuous Feedback: Conduct regular surveys to gather employee feedback and address concerns promptly.
  • Employer Branding: Promote a strong employer brand that emphasizes company values, growth opportunities, and a supportive culture.

Conclusion

In today’s competitive hybrid work environment, retaining top tech talent is critical. This requires businesses to tailor their retention strategies to address remote work challenges and specialized roles like Solana developers. Companies can rely on local recruitment agencies, such as the best recruitment agencies in Perth, to find and retain the talent needed to succeed. Proactive communication, career growth, and a supportive culture will help businesses adapt and win the tech talent wars.

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Don’t Take Any Risk – Protect Your Car During Break-ins!

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With the crime rate rising daily, you must exercise caution and learn how to protect your car from burglars. It has been reported that more than 810,000 vehicles were stolen in 2023, which is a high number.

So, if you do not want to face a similar situation or become a victim of car theft, follow the simple steps we discuss.

1. Keep the doors and windows of the car locked

This is one of the simplest yet effective tricks to protect a car from theft—you must always lock the door and windows, even when you are not using the vehicle. Open windows attract thieves, who can easily access the car. A locksmith Portland Oregon, can customize locks for car windows.

2. Have access to the keys

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Always be careful when you have a car. Never leave the keys lying around, and always be cautious to avoid losing them. Always keep spare keys so you are kept in the car when you lose one. Be mindful of not storing the car key inside or outside the vehicle, as it makes it easier for thieves to steal it.

3. Choose a secure car parking

You must be careful when choosing secured car parking. Do more than park it anywhere. It can be dangerous. To ensure complete safety, park the car where it does not have public access, and you can invest in building your garage or renting a garage. When parking outside, you must select a well-lit space, never choose a remote area, and choose a spot with CCTV camera access or any other security device.

4. Never keep valuables inside the car

If you keep valuables in the car, thieves can be tempted to break into or steal them. Valuables, including your purse, any expensive buy, or luggage, are easily visible in the vehicles. Even grocery bags can be enough to attract burglars, as they signal that there are more items inside the car. You can use a cargo cover based on your vehicle’s model.

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5. Activate the car alarm

Most advanced cars have a built-in alarm system that triggers when anybody tries to open the car door. You must activate this alarm whenever you leave the car in the parking lot or garage. With just one intruding attempt to open the car, the alarm activates with a loud noise, which deters the thief. However, if your vehicle lacks one such alarm, you can buy a car alarm from the market and install it to keep it safe. These alarms are available in multiple options, allowing you to choose from various models and prices.

Summing it up

If you live in a safe location, then simple steps are enough; however, to maintain extra protection, install a few devices to prevent thieves, such as a vehicle immobilizer and steering wheel lock to discourage thieves. You can get help from a professional locksmith Gresham Oregon, to protect your car without any inconvenience. Find out who the leading professionals are and keep their contact details on your phone.

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