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IP Rights in Ghana’s Creative Industry: Finding the Economic Pathway

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Collectively, the creative arts ecosystem generates rich social, cultural and economic benefits that supports the livelihood of the creators, enablers and investors.

 

Maximizing benefits is very key in sustaining the creative arts industry. The Robert Smith Law Group, in partnership with Ministry of Tourism and Creative Arts and the Attorney General’s Office last year December organized the Second Law for Society Public Seminar Series, with focus on intellectual property rights in Ghana’s creative arts ecosystem.

 

It was quiet a packed day and the deliberations which were anchor of the broader theme: How to Monetize Benefits for Creative Artistes – focused on finding solutions to the teething challenges confronting creative arts.

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Chaired by the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Arts, Hon. Mark Okraku Mantey, the programme witnessed high-level industry players including talents, enablers and investors attending. The Hon. Deputy Attorney General, Ms. Diana Assonaba Dapaah was the Guest Speaker.

 

The Series had two panel discussions, The first panel discussed the experiences of notable industry personnel on IP right benefits while the second focused on the legal regime of the Copyright Protection in Ghana and solutions to issues associated with the current IP monetization initiates.

 

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Among the key panelists were Boomplay General Manager Elizabeth Ntiamoah, Lynx Entertainment CEO Richie Mensah and venerable artiste Okyeame Kwame. The discussions focused on experiences with Intellectual Property (IP) earnings, the Copyright Protection regime in Ghana and solutions to the issues associated with current IP monetization initiatives.

 

In his welcoming address, Bobby Banson, Lead Counsel at the Robert Smith Law Group reiterated the focus of the discussion as one aimed at proffering solutions to issues associated with royalty collection in the creative art industry.

 

 

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Maximizing IP Rights in a Digital Era

In her keynote address, the Deputy Attorney General, Ms. Diana Assonaba Dapaah, begun by commending the Robert Smith Law Group for organizing the programme. She emphasized the pressing need for creative talents to maximize their IP rights in the advent of new technologies.

 

She further noted that notwithstanding budgetary constraints, the government is still committed to fulfilling all his promises to Ghanaians.

 

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The Deputy Attorney General stated that issues with royalty collection emanate from two main causes – Lack of transparency in the collection and distribution system and a failure to adapt to modern technology.

 

She assured that Government, in accordance with the Copyright Act 2005 (Act 650) and the Copyright Regulations, 2021 (LI 1962) was in the process of studying the current regime of royalty collection and payment and would soon commence stakeholder engagement to ensure a licensing regime that accords with the rights conferred under the laws.

 

Finally, she urged for effective stakeholder engagement, promising that government would welcome the policy suggestions that would made at the forum.

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Copyright Literacy and Protection

 

Okyeame Kwame spoke on some of the benefits he has derived from the use of his IP. He revealed that music gave him the ability to build a brand and a hope, adding that it became his profession as well as a means of expression. However, his works are yet to commensurate with his financial gain.

 

He noted that in the past 24 years, he had not made any economic gains from royalties on his creative work, his income streams have been from performances and streaming.

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Richie Mensah who has wealth of experience in his diverse roles in different levels of the music industry, stated that throughout his progression from performer, to producer, and finally record label manager his efforts have not translated into money despite the massive impact on the industry.

 

He was yet to make a single penny from his first advert which he made in the early 2000s. Talent, he lamented, is usually bullied. He noted that there is a huge untapped money stream in entertainment that artistes are not capitalizing on even though digital sales are soaring in some countries that is not the case in Ghana.

 

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Boomplay Manager Elizabeth Ntiamoah whose company operates in Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya noted that Ghanaian artistes are not as insistent on their rights as other jurisdictions. This is because, compared to Kenya and Nigeria, Ghanaian artistes have little copyright literacy.

 

Elizabeth Ntiamoah, however, noted that there is an increasing awareness and Ghanaian artistes are starting to understand their IP rights and building the voice to demand it.

 

She noted that the problem also stems from a lack of technological literacy. “Even classical artistes do not know how to upload songs unto Boomplay.” This, she lamented, was a sad issue.

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Monetizing and Understanding IP Rights

 

The second panel discussed Maximizing benefits for Creative artistes. The panelists were Nana Yaw Sompa, a Private Legal Practitioner; Abraham Adjetey, GHAMRO President and Nii Ofoli Yartey, popularly known as Seven, a well-known music right advocate and thought leader.

 

The discussion begun with an overview of the legal regime on copyright protection in Ghana. Mr. Sompa Esq, gave an insightful brief of Copyright laws.

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  1. There are two types of IP rights: Economic Right and Moral Right. Economic Right is the right to make monetary gain from one’s IP. According to the learned author Andrew Amegatcher in his book ‘Ghanaian Law of Copyright’, economic rights are the rights of exploitation of the work and the resulting right of receiving remuneration there from.

 

  1. The Moral Right constitutes the right to receive authorship and referencing for one’s creative works. Per section 6 the author of protected copyright work has the sole moral right
    1. to claim authorship of the work and in particular to demand that the name or pseudonym of the author be mentioned when any of the acts referred to in section 5 are done in relation to the work, and
    2. to object to and seek relief in connection with any distortion, mutilation or other modification of the work where that act would be or is prejudicial to the reputation of the author or where the work is discredited by the act.

 

  1. Under the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works (Berne Convention) of 1886 of which Ghana is a signatory, Article 11bis, music right holders have the exclusive right to authorize,
    1. the broadcasting of their works or the communication thereof to the public by any other means of wireless diffusion of signs, sounds or images;
    2. any communication to the public by wire or by rebroadcasting of the broadcast of the work, when this communication is made by an organization other than the original one;
    3. the public communication by loudspeaker or any other analogous instrument transmitting, by signs, sounds or images, the broadcast of the work.

 

  1. These set of rights form part of our laws in Ghana, and is reproduced in Sections 5 and 6 of the Copyrights Act 2005, Act 690.

 

  1. Section 5 of Act 690 grants the author of protected copyright work, the exclusive economic right to do or authorize the doing of the following;
    1. the reproduction of the work in any manner or form,
    2. the translation, adaptation, arrangement or any other transformation of the work,
    3. the public performance, broadcasting and communication of the work to the public,
    4. the distribution to the public of originals or copies of the work by way of first sales or other first transfer of ownership, and
    5. the commercial rental to the public of originals or copies of the work.

 

  1. To aid artistes fully enjoy the economic rights associated with their work, Act 690 allowed for the creation of various associations to collect the monies due to artistes from their work.

 

  1. Section 49 of Act 690 provides which is the basis on which artistes were allowed to form associations Collective administration societies of their choice to protect their IP:
    1. Authors, producers, performers and publishers may form collective administration societies for the promotion and protection of their interest.
    2. A collective administration society may, acting on the authority of the owner of a right, collect and distribute royalties and any other remuneration accruing to the owner.
    3. The Minister may, by legislative instrument, make Regulations for the formation, operation and administration of societies.”

 

Mr. Abraham Adjetey of GHAMRO spoke on the impact of Section 49 of Act 690. He stated that even though the overarching regime of copyright protection had already been set up under Section 49, it is still not fully operational. He attributed this lapse to lack of governmental enforcement measures and also Artistes’ lack of interest in IP education initiatives. In very strong language he made a case of the forum, pointing out that very few stars were minded to attend the programme.

 

Nii Ofoli Yartey (Seven) reiterated the concerns about the poor enforcement framework for royalty collection. He however placed his blame on GHAMRO instead of the Attorney General’s Department. He insisted that the Attorney General having licensed GHAMRO to fix royalty collection rates and collect same, GHAMRO had the proper authority to enforce royalty collection. He called for proper accountability and admonished the union for not doing its best.

 

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Finally, he reiterated the need for stakeholder engagement to map out sustainable solutions to the issues raised at the forum.

 

Finding the Pathway

 

A summary of the insights and recommendations made at the forum are as follows:

 

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  1. Enhance copyright literacy among creatives
  2. Talents must understand the role of technology in enhancing IP rights
  3. The need for rigorous governmental framework to enforce copyright laws.
  4. Create awareness of among Creatives on their IP rights.
  5. The Attorney Generals Department must control collection agencies by revoking licenses if creatives are not paid.
  6. There is a need for a stakeholder meeting to draw a roadmap to change the current trend.

 

 

Written by Ekow Quandzie

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President Akufo-Addo, other African and Caribbean leaders to headline Afreximbank’s 2023 Annual Meetings in Accra

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June 2, 2023

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Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and other leading African and Caribbean figures will be among the top headliners at the 30th Annual Meetings of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) taking place in Accra from 18 to 21 June 2023. 

According to a provisional programme released today, President Akufo-Addo and Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley of Barbados will be among a set of high-profile leaders, comprising heads of state and government, former heads of state, other political leaders, business leaders, African trade practitioners, trade finance experts, members of the academia and senior public figures, scheduled to address participants at the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM2023). 

Other confirmed speakers include Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria; Dr. Donald Kaberuka, Chairman of the Board of Directors, SouthBridge Group and Former President of the African Development Bank (AfDB); Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat; Ambassador Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Industry and Minerals, African Union Commission; Antonio Pedro, Acting Executive Secretary, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa; Strive Masiyiwa, Founder and Executive Chairman, Econet Global and Cassava Technologies; Arnold Ekpe, Former Group CEO, Ecobank, and Chairman, the Business Council of Africa and Baobab; Dr. Vera Songwe, Board Chair, Liquidity and Sustainability Facility; and David Coffey, CEO, African Association of Automotive Manufacturers. 

Also confirmed to speak are Ahmed El Sewedy, President and CEO, Elsewedy Electric of Egypt; Oussama Kaissi, Chief Executive Officer, Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit; Florie Liser, President and CEO, Corporate Council on Africa; Kayode Pitan, CEO, Bank of Industry of Nigeria; Hani S. Sonbol, CEO, International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation; Simon Tiemtore, Chairman and CEO, Lilium Capital, and Group Chairman, Vista Bank Group; Samaila Zubairu, President, Africa Finance Corporation; Rosa Whitaker, President and CEO, The Whitaker Group; Adam Molai, Chairman, TRT Investment; and Dr. Mima Nedelcovych, Chairman, AfricaGlobal Schaffer. 

The four-day AAM2023, being held under the over overarching theme, Delivering the vision: Building prosperity for Africans, will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, plenaries and fireside-type conversations focusing on African trade, trade finance and development issues, including the implementation of the AfCFTA. 

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Some of the topics listed for discussion include: Turbo-Charging Implementation of the AfCFTA; Building Prosperity for Africans: The Challenges of Peace and Security; What would it take for Africa to feed itself—Overcoming the challenges of food security for sustainable development in Africa; Building Prosperity: African Culture and Literature as a Foundation for African Renaissance; Delivering the Vision—Corporate Perspectives; and The Future of Integration in Africa. 

Other sessions will cover: The Benefits of Strong Continental Financial Institutions; Towards a Unified Vision for the Prosperity of Africans; A New Middle Passage by Africans for Africans — Strengthening interconnectivity between Africa and its Diaspora for shared Prosperity; From Parents to Offsprings: Realizing the Vision of PanAfricanism across Generations; Sport as a new Opportunity for Inclusive Growth; Lessons from History as an Opportunity for the Future — Reflections from Africa and the Caribbean; Delivering Prosperity Through Industrialization; Leveraging the Power of Intra-African Trade and Commodity-based Industrialization; Leveraging the Power of Science and Technology in a Digital Era; United We Stand: Deploying AfriCaribbean Resources for Sustainable Development — Perspectives from Monetary Authorities; Unlocking Capital to Deliver Prosperity for Africans; and Thirty Years of Making a Difference: Reflections from Former Presidents. 

Afreximbank Annual Meetings are attended by business and political leaders, banking industry professionals, trade and trade finance practitioners and other parties involved in economic development from across Africa and beyond. The Meetings, which have been ranked among the most important gatherings of economic decision makers in Africa, are covered by the African and international media. 

The detailed programme of the event will soon be available on the following webpage: https://2023.afreximbankevents.com/programme/  

Please visit the following webpage to access the list of confirmed speakers: https://2023.afreximbankevents.com/speakers/ (page regularly updated) 

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Beginner’s Guide to Vaping CBD: Everything You Need to Know

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June 2, 2023

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CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its counterpart, THC, CBD does not have psychoactive properties, meaning it won’t make you feel high. CBD has gained popularity due to its potential therapeutic benefits, such as relieving pain, reducing anxiety, and promoting relaxation.  In this blog, we tell you about CBD vape cartridges and it’s various varieties available at Dr.Ganja You can find here : https://www.drganja.com/cbd-vape-cartridge

Vaping has emerged as a popular method for consuming CBD. Vaping involves inhaling CBD vapor produced by a vaping device. This method allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream, resulting in fast-acting effects. It also offers a convenient and discreet way to enjoy the potential benefits of CBD.

A. What is CBD vape juice?

CBD vape juice, also known as CBD vape oil or CBD e-liquid, is a specially formulated liquid designed for use in vaping devices. It typically contains a combination of CBD extract, carrier oils, and sometimes flavorings. CBD vape juice is specifically made to be vaporized and inhaled.

B. How does vaping CBD work?

When you vape CBD, the device heats the CBD vape juice, converting it into a vapor that can be inhaled. The vapor is then absorbed through the lungs into the bloodstream, where it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce its potential effects.

C. Different types of CBD vape devices

There are several types of CBD vape devices available on the market:

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  1. Disposable CBD vape pens: These are compact, pre-filled devices that come ready to use. Once the vape juice is depleted, the entire pen is disposed of.
  2. Refillable CBD vape pens: These devices have a rechargeable battery and a refillable tank or cartridge. You can fill them with your preferred CBD vape juice and replace the coils as needed.
  3. CBD vape mods: These are more advanced vaping devices that offer greater customization options. They typically feature a larger tank, adjustable settings, and longer battery life.

III. Getting Started with CBD Vaping

A. Choosing the right CBD vape device

When selecting a CBD vape device, consider factors such as portability, ease of use, and your personal preferences:

  1. Disposable CBD vape pens are ideal for beginners or those who value convenience and simplicity.
  2. Refillable CBD vape pens offer more flexibility and cost-effectiveness in the long run.
  3. CBD vape mods are suitable for experienced vapers who desire more control over their vaping experience.

B. Selecting the appropriate CBD vape juice

Choosing the right CBD vape juice is essential for a satisfying vaping experience:

  1. Full-spectrum vs. CBD isolate: Full-spectrum CBD vape juice contains all the beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant, including other cannabinoids and terpenes. CBD isolate vape juice contains only pure CBD.
  2. Different CBD concentrations: CBD vape juices come in various strengths, typically measured in milligrams (mg) of CBD per milliliter (ml) of liquid. Start with a lower concentration and gradually increase as needed.
  3. Flavor options: CBD vape juices come in a wide range of flavors to suit different preferences. Popular options include fruity, minty, and natural hemp flavors.

C. Assembling and preparing your CBD vape device

Follow these steps to assemble and prepare your CBD vape device:

  1. Charging the device: If you have a rechargeable vape pen or mod, ensure that the battery is fully charged before use.
  2. Filling the tank or cartridge: If using a refillable device, carefully fill the tank or cartridge with your chosen CBD vape juice. Avoid overfilling.
  3. Adjusting settings (if applicable): For advanced devices like vape mods, familiarize yourself with the settings and adjust them to your desired preferences.

IV. Vaping CBD Safely

A. Understanding dosage and starting low

When vaping CBD, it’s crucial to start with a low dosage and gradually increase as needed. CBD affects individuals differently, so finding the right dosage for you may require some experimentation. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

B. Potential side effects and precautions

While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, or fatigue. It’s important to note that CBD can interact with certain medications, so consult your healthcare provider if you’re taking any prescription drugs.

C. Choosing reputable CBD brands

To ensure safety and quality, purchase CBD vape products from reputable brands that provide third-party lab test results. These tests confirm the purity, potency, and absence of contaminants in the product.

D. Storing and handling CBD vape products

Store your CBD vape juice and devices in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper handling and maintenance of your vape device to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

V. Vaping Techniques and Tips

A. Proper inhalation techniques

To get the most out of your CBD vaping experience, use the following inhalation techniques:

  1. Slow, steady draws: Take slow and consistent draws from the device, allowing the vapor to linger in your mouth before inhaling it into your lungs.
  2. Direct-to-lung vs. mouth-to-lung: Experiment with different vaping styles to find what works best for you. Direct-to-lung vaping involves inhaling the vapor directly into the lungs, while mouth-to-lung vaping involves holding the vapor in the mouth before inhaling.

B. Finding your ideal CBD dosage

Start with a low CBD dosage and gradually increase until you achieve the desired effects. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust accordingly. It’s important to find the dosage that works best for your specific needs.

C. Cleaning and maintaining your vape device

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your vape device are essential for optimal performance and flavor:

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  1. Clean the tank or cartridge regularly to remove residue and buildup.
  2. Replace coils as needed to maintain the quality of vapor.
  3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance specific to your device.

D. Troubleshooting common issues

If you encounter any issues with your CBD vape device, such as leaks or poor vapor production, refer to the troubleshooting guide provided by the manufacturer or seek assistance from customer support.

 

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions about CBD Vaping

A. Can I get high from vaping CBD?

No, CBD is non-intoxicating and will not produce a euphoric high. It’s THC that is responsible for the psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis.

B. Is CBD vaping legal?

The legal status of CBD varies by jurisdiction. In many countries, CBD derived from hemp with less than 0.3% THC is legal. However, it’s essential to research and adhere to the specific laws in your area.

C. Can I mix CBD vape juice with nicotine e-liquid?

It’s generally not recommended to mix CBD vape juice with nicotine e-liquid unless explicitly stated by the manufacturer. Mixing different substances may affect the overall vaping experience and potentially alter the effects of each compound.

IX. Conclusion

  1. Recap of key points

In this beginner’s guide to vaping CBD, we covered the basics of CBD vaping, including its benefits, different devices, selecting the right vape juice, and vaping techniques. We also discussed safety considerations and potential risks associated with CBD vaping.

  1. Encouragement to try CBD vaping responsibly

If you’re interested in trying CBD vaping, start with a low dosage, choose reputable brands, and consult with a healthcare professional if needed. Always prioritize safety and quality when selecting CBD vape products.

  1. Importance of consulting with a healthcare professional

While CBD may offer potential benefits, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. They can provide personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific needs.

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Ignite Your Passion: Join Aurora Women’s Conference 2023 for Transformational Insights

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June 2, 2023

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The Aurora Women’s Conference is back for 2023! This year’s conference will be held on June 8-9 at the Alisa Hotel in Accra. The conference inspired by “Women Rising” proposes to achieve balance, and improve passion, purpose, and growthamong women.

The conference will feature a variety of speakers, including Dzigbordi K. Dosoo, Dr Alaa EL-Halwagy, NanaAma Botchway, Pearl Nkrumah, Frances Quarcoopome, Ama Ablorde, Rev. Benedicta Dodd, Victoria Aligboh, Susan Quist, Fatima Alimohamed, and Dr Mary Ashun as the keynote speaker. Oheneyere Gifty Anti will be the special guest.

The conference will cover a wide range of topics, including:

  • Leadership and entrepreneurship
  • Personal development and wellness
  • Financial literacy and investing
  • Work-life balance
  • Networking and mentorship

The Aurora Women’s Conference is a unique opportunity for women from all walks of life to come together and learn from each other. It is a chance to gain new skills, build your network, and find inspiration to achieve your goals.

Why Attend the Aurora Women’s Conference?

There are many reasons why you should attend the Aurora Women’s Conference. Here are just a few:

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  • Learn from experienced speakers and experts
  • Network with other women from all walks of life
  • Find inspiration to achieve your goals
  • Gain new skills and knowledge
  • Have fun and celebrate your achievements

Registration is now open! To register, visit the Aurora Women’s Conference website here: bit.ly/aurorawomen23

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Startup Street Global Seminar Offers Valuable Opportunities For Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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June 2, 2023

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Startup Street Hosts Global Seminar

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a startup owner looking for valuable opportunities, attending Startup Street’s Global Seminar is a must. This exciting event offers numerous benefits and advantages for individuals in the startup ecosystem. Here are several compelling reasons why you should grab your ticket and become a part of this dynamic community.

Access to Valuable Resources

As a member of the Startup Street community, attending the Global Seminar grants you exclusive access to a wealth of resources and information crucial for personal and business growth. You’ll gain insights from industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, and seasoned professionals who can provide invaluable guidance and advice.

Funding Opportunities

The Global Seminar connects you with potential investors and crowdfunding platforms. This opens doors to secure funding for your startup, enabling you to take your business to the next level. Whether you’re seeking seed capital or expansion funding, this event offers a platform to showcase your venture and attract potential investors.

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Enhanced Visibility

By attending the Global Seminar, you position your business/venture to gain substantial visibility. Startup Street’s official website features a publication section where your business can be showcased, allowing you to reach a wider audience and increase brand exposure.

Master Class Sessions

The Global Seminar presents a unique opportunity to attend master class sessions conducted by industry leaders and experts. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including entrepreneurship, marketing, innovation, and leadership. You’ll gain practical knowledge and skills that can significantly impact your startup’s success.

Unlimited Digital Content

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As a member, you’ll enjoy unlimited access to a treasure trove of digital content. This includes webinars, workshops, e-books, and other valuable resources that provide continuous learning opportunities to fuel your entrepreneurial journey.

Platform for Promotion

The Global Seminar serves as an excellent platform to promote your business/venture. Engage with like-minded entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and potential customers, fostering meaningful connections and partnerships. Leverage this event to showcase your products or services, generate leads, and expand your business network.

Networking Opportunities

Networking is a vital aspect of startup success, and the Global Seminar offers ample networking opportunities. Interact with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, and industry influencers. Forge connections, exchange ideas, and explore collaborative ventures that can propel your startup forward.

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Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of the biggest roadshow for startups. Secure your ticket to Startup Street’s Global Seminar today for only Ghs200. Dial *365*4433# or log on to tinyurl.com/globalseminar23 to purchase your ticket and unlock a world of possibilities for your entrepreneurial journey.

Attending the Global Seminar not only grants you access to a diverse range of benefits but also immerses you in a vibrant community that shares your passion for startups and innovation. Seize this chance to learn, grow, and accelerate your startup’s success

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Opportunity for Film Industry Professionals: Submissions Now Open for the 3rd Creative Producers Indaba

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June 2, 2023

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Submissions have opened for the third Creative Producers Indaba (CPI), a film producers’ development programme presented by the Realness Institute, in collaboration with EAVE, International Film Festival Rotterdam’s IFFR Pro, and the Marrakech International Film Festival’s Atlas Workshops.

 

Strong creative producers play a crucial role in driving the growth of local media markets, and the CPI aims to strengthen and grow the number of capable producers on the African continent. Mehret Mandefro, Director of Development and Partnership at the Realness Institute says, “Creative Producer Indaba is addressing the most important gap in the local African media markets – training producers that can develop and finance local stories for the global and local markets. We are thrilled to be launching the third edition.”

Since its inception in 2021, the CPI has nurtured outstanding film talent and facilitated meaningful collaborations that have empowered participants to identify the right partners for their African projects. There are numerous success stories, and a shining example is the collaboration between three African producers: Bramwel Iro from Kenya, Caroline Kganyago from South Africa, and Zoe Ramushu from South Africa. These talented individuals, who participated in last year’s Indaba, are now set to co-develop their projects with Dutch producer Ellen Havenith, whose film Tiger Stripes just won the Grand Prize at Cannes’ Critics Week. These collaborations exemplify the power of the CPI in fostering connections that transcend borders and build pathways to production for African projects.

The CPI offers 10 African producers with and without projects and 5 international producers the unique opportunity to augment their leadership and entrepreneurial skills, deepen their producerial capabilities, and build professional networks across Africa and beyond.

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2022 alumnus Zoe Ramushu (Zimbabwe/SA) reflects on her experience in the CPI:  “It is a great programme for producers wanting to sharpen their knowledge, build their network and expand their entrepreneurial horizons.”

 

“The CPI aims to empower creative producers and industry leaders in Africa,” says Kristina Trapp, CEO at EAVE. “EAVE is proud to contribute with our methodology to support the groundbreaking work done by Mehret Mandefro and Elias Ribeiro of the Realness Institute.”

 

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“We are thrilled to once again be part of Indaba,” says Facundo Lema, Talent Manager at IFFR Pro. “The programme  continues to demonstrate the importance of collaboration and fostering a sense of community within the industry, as vital elements in empowering and boosting producers’ careers. One of the most remarkable aspects is the creative exchange and the exploration of the countless opportunities that will unfold during the IFFR Pro days.”

 

The Creative Producers Indaba participants will also attend the Atlas Workshops during the Marrakech International Film Festival in November and attend industry sessions at the International Film Festival Rotterdam in January 2024.

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The chosen participants will enjoy the valuable opportunity of receiving mentorship from prominent figures in the industry, including Group Leaders Mehret Mandefro and Diana Elbaum, as well as Story consultant  Mmabatho Kau. Guest speakers such as producers Femi Odugbemi, Katriel Schory, Sata Cissokho, Constanza Arena  and Dayo Ogunyemi, along with IFFR Festival Director Vanja Kaludjercic, will generously share their skills, insights, and guidance.

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“The CPI welcomes not only film producers but also film professionals who work closely with producers, including funding body representatives, international sales representatives, distributors, broadcasters, and development executives who have a vested interest in the African marketplace,” says Mehret Mandefro  “We are pleased to announce the renewal of our partnership with Projeto Paradiso, which secures one spot for a Brazilian producer. Furthermore, we are thrilled to introduce our new partnerships with the Canada Media Fund, The Austrian Film Institute, and the Swiss organisation Focal.”

 

Applicants must meet certain criteria, including having produced at least one feature fiction, series, or documentary film, or a minimum of two short films as a lead or co-producer. Film professionals should have a minimum of two years of professional experience.

The deadline for submissions is July 3rd , 2023, at 12:00 Central African Time.

The Realness Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of Institut Français d’Afrique du Sud, the Brazilian foundation Projeto Paradiso, the Austrian Film Institute, The Canada Media Fund, the Austrian Film Institute, The Swiss organisation Focal and The Storyboard Collective, Jeune Creation Francophone and CNC in partnership with European Audiovisual Entrepreneurs (EAVE), International Film Festival Rotterdam Pro (IFFR Pro), and Marrakech International Film Festival (Atlas Workshops).

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For more information and submission details, please visit the Realness Institute website at https://www.realness.institute/creative-producer-indaba.

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West African Monetary Institute (WAMI) partners with EMTECH SOLUTIONS INC to modernize fintech regulatory frameworks across the West African Monetary Zone

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June 2, 2023

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The West African Monetary Institute (WAMI) and EMTECH SOLUTIONS Inc. today announced a strategic partnership to modernize country-level and regional regulatory sandboxes, enabling the harmonization of heterogeneous Fintech regulatory policies and frameworks across the West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ). The collaboration aims at strengthening financial integration across the WAMZ member states.

WAMI and EMTECH will establish a knowledge and collaboration program called WAMZ RegEX, which focuses on showcasing regulatory innovation, sharing insights from global and regional regulatory sandbox benchmarking, onboarding a cohort of WAMZ regulatory sandboxes to conduct rapid pilots, and promoting value. Additionally, the partnership will involve publishing research and case studies, as well as capacity-building programs and thought-leadership workshops.

Olorunsola E. Olowofeso, Director General of the West African Monetary Institute (WAMI), emphasized the importance of the partnership saying, “Our collaboration with EMTECH marks a new chapter in our commitment to creating a unified financial landscape in the WAMZ and signifies a critical step towards achieving a more integrated and technologically advanced financial ecosystem in West Africa. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on our member states and the broader West African region.”

Souleymane Tall, Director of Financial Integration at WAMI, highlighted the strategic value of this collaboration and stated that the partnership with EMTECH would align with our core mission to promote financial integration and regional economic development. By working together, we could unlock new opportunities, improve access to financial services, and contribute to the overall growth and stability of the West African Monetary Zone. 

Tunji Odumuboni, Executive Director, Africa at EMTECH, remarked, “We are excited and honored to collaborate with WAMI to drive financial integration and economic development within the WAMZ.” EMTECH’s expertise in Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and Digital Regulatory Sandbox technology will support WAMI and WAMZ member states in fostering an environment conducive to financial innovation.

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Carmelle Cadet, Founder and CEO of EMTECH added, “The collaboration between EMTECH and WAMI aligns with our mission of making financial markets inclusive and resilient for everyone, by modernizing central banking infrastructure.” 

“We are eager to work with WAMI to deploy solutions addressing local and regional fintech innovation and regulatory frameworks in the West African Monetary Zone.” Cadet continued, “As many countries are developing fintech regulatory frameworks, a regulatory sandbox is a powerful tool to support safe innovations and capitalize on  investment opportunities and economic growth. From the U.S. to Europe, regulators need novel new tools. By joining efforts with WAMI, we are committed to work closely with all 6 member states and support them along this new journey of modern central banking in Africa. In EMTECH, they have a real partner for the long haul.” 

For more information about the partnership between WAMI and EMTECH, please contact [WAMI Press Contact] at [+233 (0)302 743801] or [info@wami-imao.org] and [EMTECH Press Contact] at [+1 415 889-7444] or [info@emtech.com].

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