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Aliko Dangote and Bill GatesNo I don’t have two of the world’s richest men now contributing to my blog. This is an opinion piece written by Aliko Dangote and Bill Gates, and distributed by APO on  their behalf :

This week, more than 138,000 vaccinators will fan out across five African countries in the Lake Chad area in a push to eliminate polio in Africa and rid the world of this terrible disease forever. They will take boats across fast-flowing rivers, ride jeeps along sandy ravines, walk crowded street in towns and cities and navigate cramped quarters of refugee camps to ensure that every child is immunized. Traveling for hours a day, these dedicated women and men will visit children in homes, schools, train stations, and transit points across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic. This also marks World Immunization Week, a coordinated effort to make sure that people everywhere understand the importance of getting immunized to protect against vaccine-preventable diseases. And by coincidence, it was almost seven years ago that the two of us first met in a hotel conference room in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. We were there as part of a diverse group—public officials, religious leaders, business people, polio survivors, and journalists—to discuss how we could work together to stop polio in Nigeria. At the time, Nigeria had done an amazing job tackling polio—reducing reported cases by 95 percent in just one year. But it was still circulating in six Nigerian states. While 95 percent might seem like success, as long as a single child remains infected, children across Africa and around the world are at risk. Thanks to the effort of so many, Nigeria’s Borno State is now the only place in Africa today where polio is still circulating. It will take ingenuity to end polio there, and it will take persistence to continue reaching children in the surrounding area with vaccines to protect them from the disease until it is eradicated. But we’re confident it can be done. And when that happens, Africa will celebrate one of the biggest victories ever in public health. Since our first meeting in 2010, the two of us have worked together on a range of other projects to help improve health in Nigeria and across Africa. We supported the establishment of emergency operations centers in Nigeria and other countries to keep polio from spreading. This turned out to be a blessing during the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa. When the disease first appeared in Nigeria—an international travel hub that is home to more than 180 million people—the staff of an emergency operations center set up in Lagos jumped into action and stopped the disease in its tracks. It’s almost unimaginable to think what would have happened without them. In the state of Kano, we are working with the government to ensure that children can get essential childhood immunizations against tetanus, pneumonia, liver cancer and measles. And when parents bring their children into a clinic for vaccinations, health workers can address other health issues, too, like nutrition, care for pregnant mothers and newborns and malaria prevention and treatment. We have since widened the program to several other states. Vaccines are also one of the best tools to save lives in an epidemic, such as the meningitis C outbreak happening now in Nigeria and other West African countries. And because of the devastating impact malnutrition has on Nigeria’s children –  leading to 300,000 deaths annually and causing stunted growth and development in millions more – we have expanded our partnership to include nutrition programs across 12 states. Earlier this year, we also helped launch the End Malaria Council, a group of influential public and private sector leaders committed to ensuring that malaria eradication remains a top global priority. Underlying all these efforts is our belief that strengthening health systems is the key to breaking the cycle of extreme poverty and disease—and kick-starting a virtuous cycle of health, productivity, and prosperity. In our work together, we have learned a few important lessons. First, improving the health of communities depends on a successful partnership between government, communities, religious and business leaders, volunteers, and NGOs. This ensures that everyone is rowing in the same direction. And it is essential to building trust so parents have the confidence that vaccines are safe and will protect their children from life-threatening diseases. Second, we must keep innovating to speed up progress. This month, for example, vaccinators will test a new vaccine carrier that keeps the temperature of vaccines stable for up to five days, even in blistering heat. This breakthrough will enable vaccinators to finally reach children in extremely remote areas with life-saving vaccines. Last, accurate and reliable data is central to any effort to improve health. Data can tell a health officer which communities are running low on vaccine supplies, where there are gaps in vaccination coverage, and which new mothers need reminders to take their babies to the health clinic to be immunized. An Africa without polio is within reach. So is the vision of getting life-saving vaccines to every child. Success will generate more enthusiasm and support from across different sectors – government, business, civil society, the media – to tackle other killer diseases and the underlying conditions that affect people’s health, including fixing broken health systems. We know that strengthening health systems takes time and diligence. We are optimistic that Africa can achieve the future it aspires to. That future depends on people working together—across national borders and across socioeconomic strata—to build the better world we all want. By Aliko Dangote and Bill Gates 

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December in GH: Ghana Bloggers Welcome Global Influencers at Airport with Free Chocolates

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As the world gathers in Ghana starting tomorrow, December 1st, under the theme “December in GH,” the Ghana Bloggers Association extends a warm welcome to arriving dignitaries at the airport.

They provide a gracious reception and a complimentary taste of Ghanaian chocolate, anticipating the upcoming December festivities.

This considerate initiative, led by the association’s president, Andre Mustapha NII Okai Inusah, widely known as Attractive Mustapha, is part of an ongoing agenda encouraging every Ghanaian online to actively blog and promote the beauty of Ghana.

Attractive Mustapha underscores the symbolism behind gifting chocolate, given Ghana’s status as the world’s second-largest cocoa-producing country.

He emphasizes that anyone visiting Ghana should savor the rich taste of cocoa, integral to the nation’s identity.

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Aligned with the “Blog and Promote Ghana” campaign and the approaching December festivities, the association hosts numerous international bloggers, journalists, personalities,models others.

These collaborations were meticulously planned, with specific dates strategically chosen just a day or two before the onset of December in Ghana.
(GH)

Addressing guests from the diaspora, Attractive Mustapha shares his extensive global experiences, asserting that Ghana stands out as one of the best countries worldwide.

He firmly believes that if the world is indeed round, as geographers posit, then Ghana occupies a central and special place in God’s creation, “God stood in Ghana while creating the world”

Looking ahead, Attractive Mustapha outlines plans for widespread activation across Ghana and the diaspora throughout December, extending beyond the airport.

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He passionately urges the social media community to explore all 16 regions of Ghana and share positive stories about the country.

Expressing gratitude, he takes a moment to acknowledge the invaluable guidance and support provided by the Ghana Tourism Authority to Ghanaian bloggers and the Association. This collaborative effort seamlessly aligns with their December in GH project, contributing to the positive promotion of Ghana on the global stage.

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Exhale Wellness Review: Best Cannabis Products Of 2024

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Uncovering The 5 Unknown Facts About Feminized Cannabis Seeds

Exhale Wellness has quickly established itself as a reputable brand in the cannabis industry with its legitimate sourcing of products and exceptional customer support. They particularly deal in all cannabis segments. 

 

Their commitment to natural ingredients and exceptional quality sets them apart from the competition. By sourcing their cannabis from local farmers, Exhale Wellness ensures a product that is potent and consistent in quality. 

 

This dedication to all-natural, potent formulations has garnered them a loyal customer base and a reputation for excellence in the cannabis community.

Product Review: Exhale Wellness’ Lineup

Exhale Wellness has a diversity of products available on its website for individuals who are keen on trying new cannabis products that all have different effects: 

Delta 8 THC Gummies From Exhale Wellness

Exhale’s Delta 8 Gummies is one of the most remarkable products in their lineup. These Delta-8 THC gummies are made with natural fruit and vegetable concentrates, later not infused with Delta-8 THC. These gummies are free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, ensuring a pure and wholesome experience. 

 

They are available in two potencies: 25mg and 50mg per gummy. The 50mg gummies are particularly strong and are favored for their delicious taste and balanced effects. 

 

These gummies are ideal for those seeking a potent yet enjoyable experience, with the added benefit of being discreet and easy to consume.

Soft Gels

The soft gels from Exhale Wellness are designed for long-lasting effects and ultimate discretion. Available in 10mg, 25mg, and 50mg Delta 8 THC potencies, they cater to a wide range of preferences, from beginners to more experienced users. 

 

The soft gels are praised for their smooth but powerful effects, owing to the highly concentrated, pure Delta 8 THC used in their formulation. These soft gels are an excellent choice for those seeking a more measured and extended cannabis experience.

 

Delta 9 THC Gummies

Exhale’s Delta 9 Gummies are unique, combining CBD and THC for a balanced and mild high. Available in different potencies, they are vegan-friendly and come in various fruit flavors. 

 

D9 THC gummies are ideal for those seeking the calming effects of CBD with just enough THC to enhance the overall experience without overwhelming and buzzy potency.

Delta-8 THC Tinctures

Tinctures by Exhale Wellness concentrate the benefits of Delta 8 THC in a mix of organic, healthy fatty acids and proteins. 

 

These tinctures are particularly popular among those who prefer a quicker onset of effects than edibles. These tinctures are convenient and easy to use in 300 mg and 600 mg bottles, thanks to the included glass dropper. 

 

They offer a fast-acting option for those seeking relief or relaxation without the wait.

Delta-8 THC Vape Carts

Vape cartridges from Exhale Wellness are a favorite among vaping enthusiasts. Each cartridge is filled with 900mg of the highest quality Delta 8 THC and comes in a variety of strains, catering to different tastes and preferences. 

 

Using natural terpenes for flavor enhances the vaping experience, providing a pure and enjoyable taste without artificial additives. These vapes are known for their immediate effects, making them a popular choice for those seeking quick relief or a swift shift in mood.

D8 Concentrates

Exhale Wellness offers Delta 8 concentrates with an impressive 83% purity level for those seeking a more potent and immediate effect. These concentrates come in various strains, such as Girl Scout Cookies and OG Kush, providing a range of experiences and flavors. 

 

The high potency of these concentrates makes them suitable for experienced users looking for a strong and fast-acting cannabis product.

HHC Products

Exhale Wellness has also ventured into the emerging market of HHC products. Their HHC gummies and vape carts are notable for their potency and fast onset of effects. 

 

The gummies, in particular, are known for producing intense feelings of happiness and relaxation, while the vape carts offer prolonged and strong effects. 

 

These HHC products are an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful and distinct cannabis experience.

CBD Gummies

The CBD Gummies from Exhale Wellness are pure, vegan-friendly, and made with organic fruit extracts. These gummies are designed for easy dosing and are an excellent value for the quality of CBD provided. 

 

They are particularly effective for stress relief, offering a calming effect that sets in quickly. These CBD gummies are an excellent choice for those looking for a non-psychoactive option.

Customer Experience

Customers generally report very positive experiences with Exhale Wellness products. The effectiveness and high quality of the products are frequently highlighted in customer reviews. 

 

  • The brand’s dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in the growing number of positive testimonials and reviews. 

 

  • This customer satisfaction and the brand’s commitment to quality and natural ingredients have helped Exhale Wellness establish a strong presence in the competitive cannabis market.

Website and Customer Service

Exhale Wellness offers a user-friendly website that is easy to navigate, making it easy and simple for customers to find and try the products. The website includes a helpful FAQ section, particularly useful for first-time Delta 8 buyers and users who are into consuming their favorite cannabis products. 

 

Customers who are unsure which product to choose can take a quick, free quiz on the website. Additionally, Exhale’s customer service team is known for being knowledgeable and readily available to assist via email or phone. 

Conclusion: Why Exhale Wellness? 

Exhale Wellness has successfully established itself as a niche favorite store in the cannabis market, focusing on natural, potent products. Their diverse range of Delta 8, HHC, Delta 9, and CBD products cater to various needs and preferences. 

 

Backed by positive customer feedback and strong service policies, Exhale Wellness is a brand that stands out for its quality, effectiveness, and customer-centric approach.


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Rural Ghana: Breaking development barriers with last-mile delivery

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Rural Ghana Breaking development barriers with last mile delivery photo

On a journey in the northern belt of Ghana, through the savannah stretching from Sawla to Damango, one discovers an innovative spark that has redefined the landscape of logistics in Ghana’s Northern regions. Strait Research indicated that the African last-mile delivery market is poised to reach an impressive USD 2.35 billion in value, boasting a compelling Compound Annual Growth Rate of 8.45%. In fact, the World Bank has identified logistics as a pivotal contributor to a nation’s overall economic development (Arvis et al., 2016).

Alongside other actors striving to tackle Ghana’s logistics and delivery challenges, YomYom stands out with a clear mission – connecting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to logistics solutions that are not only accessible but also affordable and sustainable. With ever-changing local and global trade dynamics, Yom Yom has evolved to serve every corner of Northern Ghana. We leverage technology and local knowledge to improve efficiency and reach. YomYom utilizes advancements in mobile tech for route optimization, real-time order tracking, and efficient management of deliveries. We also integrate local knowledge into our delivery processes to overcome potential hurdles presented by weather, local customs, and inconsistent addressing systems. Over the years, we have shown a steady growth trajectory and impact, noticeably contributing to easing trade constraints in rural Ghana by providing a reliable and efficient delivery service. Our history is marked by a commitment to overcoming the hurdles of distance, infrastructure, and resources, making us a crucial aspect of daily life for businesses and consumers.

We acknowledge the myriad challenges that persist in Africa, from our poor road infrastructure to limited technological access and unfavorable policies that often hinder the growth of startups. It would, however, be an understatement not to recognize that these challenges have consistently presented formidable obstacles that we confront head-on. Our unwavering team continues to demonstrate that the delivery sector in Africa is not merely surviving but thriving on resilience and adaptability. In the face of adversity, we have discovered that these challenges, once conquered, can be transformed into opportunities that drive progress and innovation.

Our approach is marked by our adaptability to the unique challenges presented by different regions. This adaptability is evident in our diversified delivery modes, which include the utilization of E-Bicycle vehicles and motorbikes. These vehicles are particularly suited for maneuvering through rugged terrain and remote locations, ensuring that goods reach their destinations efficiently. We have also harnessed the power of technology to enhance our services. This involves the constant utilization of digital tools for route optimization and real-time order tracking. Our online ordering system enables users to place orders with ease and monitor the progress of their deliveries in real time.

We collaborate with locals who possess a deep understanding of the layout of the land. Their expertise in navigation is invaluable in ensuring successful deliveries. Overcoming the challenges posed by vast distances and dispersed populations, YomYom strategically locates centralized distribution centers in the country. Wherever you are, we have a nearby center to serve you and deliver to you with happiness. These hubs serve as pivotal points from which goods are dispatched directly to customers, significantly reducing delivery times, and improving overall efficiency.

Our delivery services have sparked a profound transformation in rural Ghana. These services have not only streamlined access to essential goods, eliminating the need for arduous journeys, but have also catalyzed economic growth by expanding market reach and fostering local commerce. In addition to fostering prosperity, our expansion has created numerous job opportunities, both within the delivery service itself and in related industries. YomYom’s commitment extends to improving healthcare outcomes through the reliable delivery of medical supplies to remote areas. The introduction of a digital interface has not only enhanced logistical efficiency but has also paved the way for digital literacy and inclusion, a vital aspect of modern development in rural regions.  YomYom Delivery is a driving force in reducing inequality and paving the path for sustainable progress in rural communities in Ghana and beyond.

Mohammed Iddi

Founder, YomYom

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Jowato.com: Northern Ghana’s premier marketplace for Small African businesses

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Jowato.com: Northern Ghana's premier marketplace for Small African businesses

n the bustling city of Tamale, a revolutionary change is taking root, driven by the ingenuity and determination of one man: Jonathan Kojo. His creation, Jowato.com, is not just Northern Ghana’s first eCommerce platform; it’s now the largest Made in Ghana shopping center in the city. Jowato’s journey from a local startup to a national powerhouse is a story of vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to promoting Ghanaian-made products.

The Genesis of Jowato.com

Jonathan Kojo’s entrepreneurial journey began with a simple yet profound realization: the artisans and small-scale producers in Northern Ghana had immense talent and unique products, but their access to larger markets was severely limited. Jowato.com was born from this need to bridge the gap between local producers and potential customers across the globe.

A Platform Empowering Local SMEs

Jowato’s primary focus is on empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. By providing a direct link to larger markets, Jowato eliminates the need for middlemen, ensuring that the artisans and producers receive the full value for their efforts. This approach not only boosts the local economy but also ensures that customers get authentic, high-quality Ghanaian products.

Expanding Beyond Borders

From its humble beginnings in Tamale, Jowato.com has grown exponentially. It now boasts sellers from all over Ghana and reaches customers in 19 countries. This global expansion is not just a testament to the platform’s success but also to the appeal and quality of Ghanaian-made products.

A Hub for Quality and Authenticity

Walking into Jowato’s shopping center in Tamale is like stepping into a microcosm of Ghanaian culture and craftsmanship. From exquisite handwoven Kente cloth to organic shea butter, from traditional crafts to modern cosmetics, Jowato offers a diverse range of products that embody the spirit and talent of Ghana.

Empowerment Through Technology

At the heart of Jowato’s success is its innovative use of technology. By creating a user-friendly online marketplace, Jonathan Kojo has not only provided a platform for local producers but also brought the convenience of online shopping to customers. This digital approach has been particularly impactful in expanding the reach of small businesses, allowing them to connect with customers they would never have reached otherwise.

Visit Jowato SME Marketplace

Whether you’re an SME looking to connect with bigger markets or a resident in Tamale searching for the best Made in Ghana products, Jowato SME Marketplace is your destination. This platform stands as a beacon of innovation and empowerment, showcasing the best of Ghanaian entrepreneurship and craftsmanship.

Join the growing community of buyers and sellers at Jowato.com and be part of a movement that is not just selling products but also telling the story of Ghana’s rich culture and heritage. Visit Jowato, where quality meets authenticity, and every purchase supports a local business. Welcome to Jowato – the heart of Made in Ghana.

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Nana Tamakloe In Russia To Represent Ghana At BRICS+ Fashion Summit

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The fashion world is abuzz as Nana Tamakloe, the influential force behind Accra Fashion Week and the visionary mind behind Africa’s leading fashion blog, FashionGHANA.com, takes center stage at the ongoing BRICS Fashion Summit in the glamorous setting of Moscow. The summit, hosted under the umbrella of Moscow Fashion Week, commenced its style spectacle on November 28, promising a sartorial feast concluding on December 2.

Tamakloe, whose avant-garde approach has reshaped the African fashion landscape, is no stranger to accolades. Having launched the continent’s premier fashion blog in 2012 and later introducing the widely celebrated Accra Fashion Week, he continues to set trends and redefine fashion norms.

Last year, Tamakloe received global recognition when he graced the stage at the Memphis In May Festival in the USA, being invites to America with other luminaries like King Otumfou, Stonebwoy, and Okyeame Kwame. This acknowledgment was a testament to his significant impact on Ghanaian culture, and now, he brings his distinctive vision to the global stage at the BRICS Fashion Summit.

Under the auspices of Moscow Fashion Week, the BRICS Fashion Summit has become a melting pot of fashion elites. Editors, event organizers, representatives from major publications, clothing specialists, bloggers, instructors, and emerging designers from around the world have gathered, creating an atmosphere of creativity and collaboration.

Originally synchronized with Moscow Fashion Week, the BRICS Fashion Summit is not just a calendar event; it’s a strategic endeavor to cultivate the ethos of the BRICS Fashion community. Stemming from the BRICS—an intergovernmental organization uniting Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—the fashion community aims to redefine the industry’s dynamics.

The Fashion summit transcends borders, with over 30 countries participating in this cross-cultural celebration of style. From the chic streets of China to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria, the BRICS Fashion Summit is a global rendezvous of sartorial excellence.

Tamakloe’s role transcends the typical attendee; he’s on a mission to ensure that Ghana’s influence is not just felt but actively shapes the narrative of the BRICS Fashion Summit. His aim is to play a decisive role in steering the creation of the BRICS Fashion community, making Ghana an integral part of the global fashion conversation. Other guest from Ghana also include researcher Makeba L. Boateng and Nana Brenu.
As the runway lights shine on Moscow, Nana Tamakloe’s active presence becomes a symbol of Ghana’s ascendancy in the international fashion scene. The BRICS Fashion Summit is not merely a meeting of minds; it’s a runway where cultures collide, and fashion takes on a global resonance, with Tamakloe leading the charge for Ghana’s fashion-forward narrative.

This year’s Accra Fashion Week is poised to welcome representatives from 17 nations to the vibrant city of Accra. This spectacular event is slated to unfold against the iconic backdrop of the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, from December 13th to the 17th, 2023. The anticipation is further heightened as delegates from the BRICS Fashion Summit are set to grace the occasion, amplifying the international flair.
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How COP28 Aims to Unlock Trillions for Climate Solutions by Centering Business

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Badr Jafar

Over 70,000 individuals from around the world are about to converge on Dubai to participate in COP28. In the lead-up, the UAE’s COP28 Presidency has made no secret of its ambition to make this the most inclusive and consequential COP ever. And while much of that effort has elevated historically underrepresented communities, and rightly so, a lesser-known determination of the COP28 Presidency is about transforming how the COP process engages with the private sector.

From 1-2 December this year, COP28 will feature the biggest gathering of business and philanthropy devoted to solving climate change in history, at the inaugural Business & Philanthropy Climate Forum. Held in parallel with the heads of state level World Climate Action Summit, the Forum will bring together 1,000 heads of business and philanthropy – alongside policymakers and other stakeholders – to spur tangible climate action.

While COPs have traditionally been seeing as a political process, opening the COP28 summit with this Forum will set an entirely new tone. To expedite the pathway to transformative action, the Forum will include a set of 22 actions that CEOs and philanthropists can take right away. These include game-changing climate ‘moonshots’ and breakthrough technologies, expanding indigenous peoples’ direct access to investment, accelerating food supply chain transformation across the Global South, accelerating technology transfer, de-risking green investments, enhancing natural capital, boosting green SMEs and start-ups, and increasing investment in resilience for vulnerable communities around the world. The goal is to provide an accessible way for the private sector to move beyond declarations, into implementation.

From the outset, we’ve established global partnerships with major players who will help galvanize business communities around the world. They include Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI), International Finance Corporation (IFC), Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), World Economic Forum, Asian Development Bank, Africa Finance Corporation, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and XPRIZE.

Fixing climate finance is a top priority. Global investments of over USD 3 trillion per year will be required to enable the world to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The private sector could play the most consequential role in generating the multiplier effect required to take us from billions to trillions.

For far too long, business and philanthropy have been relegated to the periphery of global climate negotiations, often dismissed as a part of the problem. But this is a terrible missed opportunity. Private capital markets have more than doubled over the past decade, reaching over $23 trillion. Philanthropic capital alone flowing through the global financial system every year is well above $1 trillion dollars. The latter can often be deployed in more flexible, risk-tolerant and patient ways than other forms of finance.

Combined, these capital flows are key to unlocking accessible, affordable and targeted solutions to closing the climate finance gap. And we mustn’t neglect the massive additional contributions that businesses everywhere and of all sizes can make to the climate action agenda through their networks, capacity to innovate, and engagement with local communities.

That’s why the COP28 Business & Philanthropy Forum will support governments, businesses and philanthropists to work together and in parallel, collaborating where they can while playing to their respective strengths. No individual stakeholder can succeed alone. Only when we blend capabilities and capital across these sectors, can we produce outcomes with the required scale and timeframe.

Business and philanthropy hold the greatest untapped potential for accelerating implementation of the world’s climate and nature goals. It’s time to mobilize the world’s private capital in service of the planet.

Badr Jafar is the COP28 Special Representative for Business & Philanthropy, and CEO of UAE-based Crescent Enterprises

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