The Education and Training Institute of the International Relations and Diplomacy Network Ghana (IRDN Ghana) hosted a comprehensive training program on social and diplomatic etiquette, aimed at enhancing the skills of professionals in the field of diplomacy, as well as individuals seeking to improve their everyday interactions.

The training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex social and diplomatic situations with confidence and poise, fostering effective communication, building strong relationships, and promoting cultural understanding.

“In today’s globalized world, social and diplomatic etiquette play a vital role in building bridges between nations, cultures, and individuals. The training was designed to provide participants with the tools necessary to excel in their professional and personal lives, ” said Samantha Wuta-Ofei, the head of the training and education institute of IRDN Ghana.

In an address during the training, Prof. Lord Mawuko-Yevugah, the convener and patron of the network, stated that the training is essential for diplomats, government officials, business leaders, and anyone interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. It will cover topics such as protocol, cross-cultural communication, and professional networking.

H.E. Ambassador Norvisi Aku Abaidoo, former Ambassador of Ghana to Belgium who was the guest resource person in her presentation said, “As a former ambassadoror , I’ve seen firsthand the power of social and diplomatic etiquette in building strong relationships and achieving diplomatic goals. This training is a valuable resource for anyone looking to make a positive impact in the world of international relations.”

In conclusion, Eunice Dede Tornyi, the head of IRDN Ghana thanked the resource persons on behalf of the network and charged members of the public and diplomatic community to look out for more insightful training opportunities that will be rolled out by the training institute.

Our training is not just about rules and protocols. It’s about developing a mindset of respect, empathy, and understanding. We want our participants to leave with the skills and confidence to navigate any situation with grace and poise. The place to gain such empowerment is with the IRDN Ghana.”

International Relations and Diplomacy Network Ghana (IRDN Ghana) is a global platform fostering dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among diplomats, scholars, and professionals in the field of international relations. Dedicated to promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation, IRDN Ghana provides a unique space for exchange, learning, and growth. Through its various initiatives, IRDN Ghana aims to enhance diplomatic skills, facilitate international cooperation, and address global challenges. With a diverse community spanning over several countries, the network is committed to shaping the future of international relations and diplomacy. Log on to www.irdnghana.org to join.

As temperatures during the summer in mainland Europe continue to increase year on year, Virgin Limited Edition offers holidaymakers the opportunity to forgo the scorching heat of typical summer destinations and bask in the refreshing mountain air at Sir Richard Branson’s Verbier retreat The Lodge.

The luxurious mountain retreat opens its doors for hotel-style bookings from 14^th June – 15^thSeptember 2024, presenting the perfect summer getaway nestled amidst the majestic Swiss Alps and charming Alpine villages. Picture mornings filled with energising yoga sessions, afternoons exploring picturesque Verbier or cycling scenic mountain trails, and evenings spent soaking up breathtaking views from the hot tub with a glass of bubbly in hand.

Operated as an exclusive use chalet in the winter months, The Lodge opens its doors this summer to parties of all sizes, including couples, families, and solo travellers to experience the chalet, hotel style on an All-Inclusive basis, comprising of gourmet meals, as well as daily afternoon tea, premium drinks and champagne. Offering nine stunning bedrooms and suites, sleeping up to 18 adults, the Lodge will operate on an individual stay basis with the option to book exclusive use if the whole property is desired.

The Lodge serves as the perfect base for exploring the Swiss Alps by bike, with Verbier renowned for its prestigious cycling events and hundreds of kilometres of biking trails. Hikers will also find plenty to enjoy, from leisurely strolls to challenging 7-hour treks, and for those seeking new ventures, The Lodge offers opportunities to try authentic rock climbing and paragliding sessions. Following a day of exploring in the mountains, guests can kick back and relax in the indoor swimming pool, steam room and indoor and outdoor hot tubs. Children are also well catered for via a tailored ‘Lodge Rangers’ programme of fun and educational activities.

Culinary delights await as The Lodge’s world-class chefs serve up delectable meals for guests. Passionate about sourcing food sustainably, the chefs prioritise local and seasonal ingredients, ensuring every dish is fresh and flavourful. In summer, guests can expect apricots, wild berries, herbs, and elderflower foraged from the gardens and surrounding mountains and cheese made by local cheesemaker Marc Dubosson.

Verbier offers a plethora of activities for all interests. Adventurous guests can take cable cars to the summit of Mont Fort, challenge their golf skills on many high-altitude courses, enjoy family horse treks, or simply stroll through charming streets filled with boutiques and designer shops. Music lovers can take advantage of the open-air concerts and music festivals that take place during the summer months, whilst equestrian fans can plan their trip around their favourite show jumpers.

Rates at The Lodge start from CHF 990 per room per night during the summer season based on two adults sharing and include all food and drink. For more information or to book, visit https://www.virginlimitededition.com/the-lodge , email enquiries@virginlimitededition.com, or call +44 (0) 208 600 0430

Dubai is set to host the inaugural Premier Energy Leadership Conference & Awards 2024 – Middle East & Africa (PELADubai2024), an esteemed event celebrating outstanding achievements in the energy sector. This landmark event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 17th – Friday, 18th October 2024, at the Al Khoory Hotel, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, under the theme: “Harnessing AI for a Sustainable Energy Future: Innovations, Impact, and Integration.”

The Premier Energy Leadership Awards is a high-impact, top-tier conference and awards ceremony developed by The Governance & Business Boardroom (a RADComm Group subsidiary), JEPMSS, and Energy Governance Middle East & Africa. This event is dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations who are driving the future of the energy sector with exceptional vision, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. It aims to inspire others by showcasing the remarkable achievements of these leaders.

Background:

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region holds a critical position in the global energy landscape, characterized by rich resources and strategic geopolitical significance. The region is undergoing a significant transformation with a focus on diversification, sustainability, and technological advancements. In this dynamic environment, the Premier Energy Leadership Awards aims to celebrate the strides made by industry leaders and ensure they remain at the forefront of innovation and efficiency.

The MEA region is experiencing a transformative shift in its energy sector, with a strong emphasis on adopting sustainable practices and innovative technologies. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial to recognize and honor the leaders and organizations that are making significant contributions to this transformation. The Premier Energy Leadership Awards serves as a platform to highlight these contributions and inspire continued excellence and innovation in the energy sector.

We invite all stakeholders, industry leaders, and professionals to join us in Dubai for this prestigious event. The awards ceremony will provide a unique opportunity to network with peers, share insights, and celebrate the achievements of those who are driving positive change in the energy industry.

Participation & Speaking Opportunities:

We welcome industry leaders to participate and share their experiences and insights at the conference. Speaking slots are available, and we encourage interested parties to contact Richmond at +233247415140 via call or WhatsApp to express their interest.

About Us:

The Governance & Business Boardroom is a leading networking organization connecting corporate governance and business leaders worldwide. We provide a platform for senior executives, board members, and industry professionals to exchange ideas, share best practices, and foster valuable connections. Our mission is to promote thought leadership, excellence in governance, and sustainable business practices. We organize several notable events, including the Ghana National Governance & Business Leadership Conference & Awards and the Africa Public Sector Leadership & Innovation Conference & Awards. We are a member of RADComm Group. 

For further details and participation, please email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

Dr. Emmanuel Bortey Borketey, a distinguished businessman and philanthropist, has brought hope and relief to the residents of Mirig-Nabango in the Kasena Nankana West District of the Upper East Region with the donation of a much-needed borehole. (more…)

Police say a group of youths and teenagers injured an 8-year-old Ghanaian girl and her father in the town of Grevesmühlen in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

German officials have condemned an attack that resulted in the injury of a Ghanaian girl and her father.

Police said that an 8-year-old Ghanaian girl and her 10-year-old sister were attacked by a group of around 20 teenagers and young adults late on Friday.

The 8-year-old girl and her father sustained mild injuries and were hospitalized.

The attack occurred in the town of Grevesmühlen in the northeastern German state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

Police said the attackers kicked the younger girl in the face, after which the girl’s parents intervened.

According to police reports, one of the suspected attackers continued to direct racist insults at the victims after officers arrived at the scene.

Police are investigating a breach of the peace, grievous bodily harm, incitement of hatred and verbal abuse.

Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said on the platform X, formerly Twitter, that her thoughts and solidarity were with the children and their family.

“Calling children racist names and brutally attacking them is a sign of deep hatred and inconceivable inhumanity,” she said.

Grevesmühlen Mayor Lars Prahler told the German public radio station NDR 1 Radio MV that he was shocked at the incident.

“This racially motivated offense simply leaves me stunned. It shows bottomless hatred and uninhibited inhumanity and cannot be excused,” he said.

He added that the fact that some of the suspects are teenagers is no excuse for the behavior.

State Premier Manuela Schwesig condemned the attack in a post on X.

“The injured girl is 8 years old — as young as my daughter. We must not allow hatred and hate speech to poison our society and violence to threaten our children,” she declared.

Air travel in Africa is poised to surpass pre-pandemic levels for the first time in 2024. From Cairo, home to Africa’s second-oldest airport, to Johannesburg, which uniquely offers direct flights to six continents, the continent’s aviation sector is on a robust recovery trajectory.

A report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlights a significant 20.7% year-on-year increase in international passenger traffic for African airlines. This surge in capacity, up by 22.1% year-on-year, shows the growth within Africa’s aviation sector. This expansion mirrors a global trend, with total passenger traffic exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 5.7% in February 2024.

In this context, Nairametrics has compiled a list of the busiest airports in Africa based on flight traffic in  2024 daily.

Methodology

This list highlights the busiest airports in Africa, measured by the number of scheduled daily departures, rather than the number of passengers. It includes only scheduled passenger flights and excludes freighters or chartered flights. This data is sourced from FlightsFrom.com, a travel tool website that publishes airline routes and schedules worldwide.

15. Durban International

Durban International Airport in South Africa ranks as the third-largest airport in the country, with an average of 55 daily flights.

The busiest route is to Johannesburg (JNB), featuring an average of 204 weekly departures, accounting for over 55% of the airport’s total weekly flights.

Key international destinations include Dubai (DXB) and Harare (HRE), with the Durban to Dubai flight taking approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes.

Safair emerges as the leading airline at Durban International, with around 205 scheduled weekly departures, quadrupling the number of flights operated by the second-largest airline, CemAir.

14. Kotoka International Airport Accra

Kotoka International Airport (ACC), the largest airport in Ghana located in Accra, handles an average of 57 flights daily.

Operating from three terminals (Terminal 1, 2, and 3), the airport’s busiest route is to Kumasi (KMS), with an average of 88 weekly departures, representing 22% of the total weekly flights.

Major international destinations include Lagos (LOS) and Abidjan (ABJ). The longest flights from Kotoka are to New York (JFK), taking approximately 11 hours and 10 minutes, and to Dulles (IAD), with a flight time of 10 hours and 45 minutes.

Here, Africa World Airlines has the highest departures, with around 117 scheduled take-offs weekly. The second largest operator is Passion Air.

13. Zanzibar International Airport

Zanzibar International Airport, the second-largest airport in the United Republic of Tanzania, plays host to an average of 70 daily flights. With two terminals (Terminal 2 and Terminal 3), its busiest route is to Dar Es Salaam (DAR), with a 221 weekly departures, accounting for 42% of the airport’s total weekly flights.

Some of its most frequent international destinations include Nairobi (NBO) and Mombasa (MBA).

Auric Air dominates the departures from Zanzibar, with approximately 123 scheduled take-offs each week, followed by Precision Air.

12. Dar Es Salaam (DAR) – 75 flights every day

As the largest airport in the United Republic of Tanzania, Dar Es Salaam International Airport (DAR) accommodates an average of 75 flights daily. Operating from three terminals, the airport’s busiest route is to Zanzibar (ZNZ), with an average of 173 weekly departures, accounting for 33% of the total weekly flights.

Prominent international destinations from Dar Es Salaam include Nairobi (NBO) and Addis Ababa (ADD). The longest flights are to Guangzhou (CAN), taking around 11 hours, and to Amsterdam (AMS), with a flight time of 9 hours and 35 minutes.

Air Tanzania leads in departures from DAR, with approximately 148 scheduled take-offs each week, followed by Precision Air.

11. Marrakech Menara Airport

Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK), the second-largest airport in Morocco with 79 daily flights on avergage it is a key aviation hub based in Marrakech.

The busiest route from this airport is to Paris Orly (ORY), with an average of 45 weekly flights, making up 8% of all departures.

Domestically, Casablanca (CMN) and Fes (FEZ) are the most popular destinations. The longest flights from Marrakesh are to New York (EWR), taking approximately 9 hours and 5 minutes, and to Montreal (YUL), with a flight time of 7 hours and 40 minutes.

Ryanair stands out as the largest airline at Marrakesh Menara, with about 181 scheduled take-offs each week, followed by easyJet.

10. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport

Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV), the second-largest airport in Nigeria, handles an average of 79 daily flights. Flights depart from one of its four terminals (Terminal B, C, D, and E).

The busiest route is to Lagos (LOS), with an average of 178 weekly departures, accounting for 32% of all weekly flights. Key international destinations include Accra (ACC) and Lome (LFW).

The longest flights from Abuja are to Doha (DOH), taking approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes, and to London (LHR), with a flight time of 6 hours and 35 minutes.

Air Peace leads in departures from Abuja, with around 149 scheduled take-offs weekly, followed by Cimber AS.

The airport accommodates larger aircraft such as the Boeing 777, Airbus A350, and Airbus A340, while the most frequently scheduled aircraft types are the Boeing 737 and Embraer ERJ14X/13X.

9. Tunis–Carthage International Airport (TUN)

Tunis–Carthage International Airport (TUN), the largest airport in Tunisia, handles an average of 83 flights daily. With 26 airlines operating, you can fly to 65 destinations in scheduled passenger traffic.

The busiest route is to Mitiga, Tripoli (MJI) in Libya, with an average of 52 weekly flights, comprising 9% of all weekly departures. Popular domestic destinations include Djerba (DJE) and Sfax (SFA).

Tunisair is the leading airline at Tunis–Carthage, with approximately 210 scheduled take-offs each week, followed by Nouvelair Tunisie.

The airport accommodates larger aircraft such as the Boeing 777, Airbus A350, and Airbus A330. The most frequently scheduled aircraft types are the Airbus A31X/32X and Boeing 737.

8. Houari Boumediene Airport Algier (ALG)

Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG), the largest airport in Algeria located in Algiers, handles approximately 100 flights daily. Departures occur from one of its four terminals (Terminal 3, D, I, and W). The most frequently traveled route is to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) in France, with an average of 69 weekly flights, constituting 9% of all weekly departures. Domestically, popular destinations include Oran (ORN) and Constantine (CZL). The longest flights from Algiers are to Kuala Lumpur (KUL), taking around 13 hours and 10 minutes, and to Beijing (PEK), with a flight time of 11 hours and 45 minutes.

Air Algerie leads in departures from Houari Boumediene, with approximately 509 scheduled take-offs each week, significantly surpassing the second-largest airline, Air France. The airport accommodates larger aircraft such as the Boeing 777, Airbus A330, and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, while the most frequently scheduled aircraft types are the Boeing 737 and ATR 72/42.

7. Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos (LOS)

Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria, stands as the country’s largest airport, handling an average of 101 daily flights. Flights operate from its two terminals, Terminal D and Terminal I.

The busiest route is to Abuja (ABV), with an average of 178 weekly flights, comprising 25% of all weekly departures. Key international destinations from Lagos include Accra (ACC) and Doha (DOH). The longest flights include Lagos to Maasai Mara (ANA), a journey lasting approximately 23 hours.

Air Peace leads in departures from Murtala Muhammed Airport, with around 193 scheduled take-offs per week, followed by Cimber AS.

6. Cape Town International Airport (CPT)

Cape Town International Airport (CPT), the second largest airport in South Africa, operates an average of 103 flights daily.

The airport’s busiest route is to Johannesburg (JNB), with approximately 301 weekly flights, representing 41% of all weekly departures. Key international destinations from Cape Town include Windhoek (WDH) and Dubai (DXB).

The longest flights from Cape Town are to Atlanta (ATL), with a flight duration of approximately 15 hours and 55 minutes, and to Dulles (IAD), taking about 15 hours and 45 minutes.

Safair leads in departures from Cape Town International Airport, with around 268 scheduled take-offs per week, followed by Airlink (South Africa).

5. Mohammed V International Airport –Casablanca (CMN)

Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), the largest airport in Morocco located in Casablanca, operates with approximately 104 flights daily. Flights depart from its two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

The most frequented route is to Paris Orly (ORY) in France, with an average of 46 weekly flights, constituting 6% of all weekly departures. Popular domestic destinations include Marrakech (RAK) and Agadir (AGA). The longest flights from Casablanca are to Miami (MIA), taking around 8 hours and 45 minutes, and to Dulles (IAD) with a flight time of 8 hours.

Royal Air Maroc is quite popular for its departures from Mohammed V Airport, with approximately 559 scheduled take-offs each week, significantly surpassing the second largest airline, Air Arabia Maroc.

4. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Nairobi (NBO)

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), the largest airport in Kenya situated in Nairobi, records approximately 123 flights daily.

Flights operate from its five terminals (Terminal 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 2). The most frequented route is to Mombasa, with an average of 147 weekly flights, accounting for 17% of all weekly departures. Key international destinations from Nairobi include Kigali  and Entebbe .

The longest flights from Jomo Kenyatta International are to New York (JFK), with a flight duration of approximately 15 hours, and to Changsha (CSX), taking about 11 hours and 15 minutes.

Kenya Airways accounts for around 405 scheduled take-offs per week, followed by Jambojet Limited.

3. Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), the largest airport in Ethiopia, operates with a remarkable 194 flights daily. Flights depart from its two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. T

he most frequently traveled route is to Bahar Dar (BJR), with an average of 106 weekly flights, representing 7% of all weekly departures.

Key international destinations from Addis Ababa include Dubai (DXB) and Rome (FCO). The longest flights from Bole International Airport are to Sao Paulo (GRU), taking approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes, and to Shanghai (PVG), with a flight time of 11 hours and 45 minutes.

Ethiopian Airlines has the most departure from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, with around 1,364 scheduled take-offs per week, significantly surpassing the second largest airline, Kenya Airways.

2. Cairo International Airport (CAI)

In second place for busiest airport in Africa is Cairo International Airport (CAI), the largest airport in Egypt with a record of 243 flights daily.

Flights depart from one of its four terminals (Terminal 1, 2, 3, and S). The most frequently travelled route is to Jeddah (JED) in Saudi Arabia, with an average of 211 weekly flights, comprising 12% of all weekly departures. Popular domestic destinations include Hurghada (HRG) and Sharm el Sheikh (SSH).

EgyptAir leads in departures from Cairo International Airport, with around 734 scheduled take-offs per week, significantly surpassing the second-largest airline, Air Cairo.

1. Johannesburg International Airport (JNB)

Johannesburg International Airport (JNB) stands as the busiest airport in Africa, handling an average of 251 flights daily.

As the largest airport in South Africa, it operates flights from its two terminals, Terminal A and Terminal B. The most frequented route is to Cape Town (CPT), with an average of 300 weekly flights, accounting for 17% of all weekly departures.

Key international destinations from Johannesburg include Harare (HRE) and Lusaka (LUN).

Airlink (South Africa)has the highest departure rates from Johannesburg International, with around 657 scheduled take-offs per week, followed by Safair.