In recent years, the allure of shisha smoking has grown immensely, with lounges and cafes offering this social pastime to enthusiasts worldwide. However, amidst the enjoyment, ensuring safety remains paramount for a truly satisfying experience. In this guide, we delve into essential tips and precautions to make your shisha sessions both safe and enjoyable.

What Is Shisha?

Shisha is like a special pipe for smoking flavored tobacco. It’s also called a hookah or water pipe. People use it in social settings to relax and enjoy different flavors. Shisha has a few parts: a bowl where you put the flavored tobacco, a body filled with water, a hose, and a mouthpiece. To smoke it, you light charcoal and put it on top of the tobacco. 

When you inhale through the hose, the smoke goes through the water and into your mouth. The water makes the smoke cooler and smoother. Shisha comes in lots of flavors, like fruit or mint. It’s fun to try different flavors with friends, but remember, smoking shisha can still be bad for your health, so it’s important to be careful.

Why Choose Shisha On Wheels

Choosing Shisha Cafe Dubai for your shisha needs can be a fantastic decision for several reasons:

• Convenience: Shisha On Wheels brings the hookah experience directly to you, wherever you are. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a night in with friends, or organizing a special event, their mobile service eliminates the hassle of traveling to a lounge or setting up your own equipment.
• Quality: Shisha On Wheels prides itself on delivering premium shisha experiences. From high-quality tobacco blends to top-of-the-line hookah equipment, they ensure that every puff is smooth, flavorful, and enjoyable.
• Variety: With Shisha On Wheels, you have access to a wide range of flavors and setups to suit your preferences. Whether you’re into traditional tobacco blends, fruity flavors, or exotic mixes, they can cater to your tastes and even offer customization options.
• Professionalism: Their team is dedicated to providing excellent service from start to finish. From prompt arrival to efficient setup and cleanup, you can expect professionalism and attention to detail every step of the way.
• Social Experience: Shisha isn’t just about the smoke; it’s about the social experience it creates. With Shisha On Wheels, you can enjoy this communal activity with friends and loved ones in the comfort of your own space, fostering bonding and relaxation.
• Safety: Shisha On Wheels prioritizes safety, ensuring that their equipment is properly maintained and sanitized between uses. You can enjoy your hookah session with peace of mind, knowing that hygiene standards are upheld.
• Customization: Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large event, Shisha On Wheels can tailor their services to meet your specific needs. From the number of hookahs to the duration of the service and choosing the shisha flavors, they can accommodate various requirements to make your experience memorable.

In summary, choosing Shisha On Wheels means choosing convenience, quality, variety, professionalism, social connection, safety, and customization—all essential elements for a fantastic shisha experience.

Potential Risks

Contrary to common misconceptions, shisha smoking poses various health risks that smokers should be aware of. Despite the pleasant aroma and social ambiance, indulging in shisha sessions can have adverse effects on both short-term and long-term health. Understanding these risks is crucial for making informed decisions about shisha consumption. Here are some of the potential hazards associated with shisha smoking:

• Nicotine Addiction: Shisha tobacco contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance. Regular shisha smokers can develop a dependence on nicotine, leading to withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit.
• Respiratory Issues: The inhalation of shisha smoke can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure to shisha smoke may contribute to the development of respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma.
• Cardiovascular Disease: Shisha smoking has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. The toxins in shisha smoke can cause damage to blood vessels, leading to the narrowing of arteries and decreased blood flow to vital organs.
• Cancer Risk: Shisha smoke contains numerous carcinogens and toxic chemicals that can increase the risk of various cancers, including lung cancer, oral cancer, and esophageal cancer. Prolonged exposure to these harmful substances can significantly elevate the likelihood of developing cancerous growths.
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: The combustion process involved in shisha smoking produces carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly in high concentrations. In poorly ventilated spaces, shisha smokers may be at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and even death in severe cases.
• Infectious Diseases: Sharing shisha mouthpieces or hoses can facilitate the transmission of infectious diseases such as colds, flu, and even more serious illnesses like tuberculosis or hepatitis. Poor hygiene practices and inadequate cleaning of equipment can increase the likelihood of spreading pathogens among users.
• Adverse Effects on Pregnancy: Pregnant women who smoke shisha may expose themselves and their unborn babies to harmful toxins, potentially leading to complications such as low birth weight, premature birth, and developmental issues.
• Secondhand Smoke Exposure: Non-smokers exposed to shisha smoke in indoor settings or enclosed spaces may inhale secondhand smoke, putting them at risk of the same health hazards as active smokers. Children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of secondhand smoke.

By acknowledging these potential risks, individuals can make informed choices regarding shisha smoking and take proactive measures to protect their health and well-being. Implementing safety precautions and practicing moderation can help mitigate the negative impact of shisha consumption on both personal health and public health.

Tips for Safe Shisha Smoking

Enjoying shisha safely starts with knowing what to do for setting up own shisha lounge at home. From picking the right stuff to keeping things clean, each step is important for staying safe and having fun. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, knowing how to smoke safely matters a lot. In this guide, we’ll share some easy tips for smoking shisha safely. We’ll cover things like choosing good equipment and knowing when to stop. With these tips, you can enjoy your shisha knowing you’re doing it the right way.

Quality Equipment:

Invest in high-quality, clean equipment to ensure a safe smoking experience. Choose reputable brands known for their durable and well-crafted hookahs. Regularly clean your hookah and accessories to prevent the buildup of harmful residues.

Proper Setup:

Follow proper setup procedures to optimize airflow and heat distribution. Start by filling the base with water to the appropriate level, ensuring it covers the down stem. Place the bowl securely on top and pack it with fresh tobacco. Position the charcoal evenly on the foil or screen, allowing for consistent heat distribution.

Choose Quality Tobacco:

Opt for premium shisha tobacco from trusted sources to avoid potential health risks associated with counterfeit or expired products. Fresh, high-quality tobacco enhances the flavor and reduces the likelihood of adverse effects.

Hygiene Practices:

Maintain strict hygiene standards to prevent contamination and ensure a clean smoking experience. Regularly clean the hookah, including the base, stem, and hose, using mild soap and water. Disinfect mouthpieces between uses to minimize the risk of spreading germs.

Moderation:

Exercise moderation when indulging in shisha smoking to minimize health risks. Limit your sessions to occasional indulgences rather than habitual consumption. Set boundaries and be mindful of your intake to prioritize your well-being.

Social and Environmental Considerations:

When enjoying shisha in public spaces or lounges, be considerate of others and the environment. Choose well-ventilated areas to minimize exposure to secondhand smoke. Respect designated smoking areas and adhere to established etiquette to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

By following these essential tips for shisha safety, you can enjoy a fulfilling and worry-free smoking experience. Prioritize quality equipment, proper setup, and hygiene practices to minimize health risks and maximize enjoyment. Remember to smoke in moderation and be mindful of your surroundings. Embrace the social aspect of shisha while respecting the well-being of yourself and others.

MTN Ghana Foundation is pleased to announce that it has completed and handed over an Accident, Emergency, and Administration block for the Bawjiase Polyclinic at the cost of GHS 5,475,542.69.

The new block comprises of an operating theatre, emergency ward, isolation ward, recovery ward and resuscitation point. The project also includes a reception area, offices for accounts staff, medical superintendent, administrator, and rooms and offices for nurses and doctors. In addition, there is a conference room and a staff kitchenette. MTN Ghana Foundation also provided the facility with hydraulic patient stretchers, eater beds and lights, bedside lockers, drip stands, medicine trolleys and cabinets, an anesthetic machine, a diathermy machine, patient monitors, oxygen concentrators, and surgical instruments.

The Bawjiase Polyclinic is a vital healthcare facility in the Central Region that serves Bawjiase and 80 other communities within the Awutu Senya District and beyond. It provides healthcare to over 33,000 people in the central region and part of the Greater Accra region.

The Medical Superintendent of Bawjiase Polyclinic, Dr. Martina Awo Baisiwa Johnson, taking guests through the journey of the project

Speaking at the handing-over ceremony, the Board chairman of the MTN Ghana Foundation, Prof. Franklyn Manu, expressed his excitement about the completion of the project for the polyclinic. He said “The completion of the Accident and Emergency Centre as well as the Administration Block will help to alleviate some of the challenges faced by the clinic and bring much-needed relief to the district. Patients in this community and beyond will receive timely quality care”.

The Medical Superintendent of Bawjiase Polyclinic, Dr. Martina Awo Baisiwa Johnson, expressed her gratitude to MTN Ghana Foundation for sponsoring the completion of the project noting that the MTN Ghana Foundation “came to our aid when our efforts could no longer carry the huge task of completing this structure”. She reiterated the importance of the new block to health care delivery at the Polyclinic.

Inside view of one of the new wardsInside view of one of the new wards

The Chief Director, speaking on behalf of the Minister for Health, Bernard Okoe-Boye, said “Today marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and enhanced access to quality healthcare services in our beloved nation. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to MTN Ghana Foundation for their unwavering support for healthcare that continues to positively impact the lives of Ghanaians”. 

Naakye Ayeley Tetteley 1 Adontsen Hemaa of Awutu Traditional Area and Queen mother of Awutu- Bawjiase also expressed her appreciation to the MTN Ghana Foundation for providing a facility that will enhance healthcare delivery in Bawjiase and beyond. She urged the people to adopt a good maintenance culture to preserve the facility.

The handing over of the new block was attended by various dignitaries, including the MP for Awutu Senya West, Hon. Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui, the DCE of Awutu Senya District Assembly, Hon. Moses Arhinful Arhin, Dr. Wisdom Atiwoto, Director at the Ministry of Health, ACP Ibrahim Sulley, Deputy Regional Commander of police, Central East, Chief Superintendent Felicia Ayesu, Bawjiase District Commander and representatives of Awutu Traditional Council. Also present were Mrs Nabila Williams, MTN Foundation Board Member, as well as executives and staff volunteers of MTN Ghana. 

For the past 11 months, Pizzaman Chickenman, the nation’s leading fast-food chain, found itself in a battle against a group of fraudsters who exploited its brand to deceive unsuspecting customers. However, the tables have turned as Pizzaman Chickenman takes decisive action against these criminals, teasing the release of an upcoming documentary that promises to illuminate their fight for justice.

The fraudulent activities, where individuals masqueraded as representatives of Pizzaman Chickenman to swindle customers, posed a significant threat to the brand’s integrity and the trust of its customers. Despite the challenges posed by these unscrupulous individuals, Pizzaman Chickenman remained resolute in its dedication to protecting its customers and upholding its esteemed reputation.

The gravity of the situation deepened as distressing rumors began to circulate, suggesting that Pizzaman Chickenman, an emblem of trust and reliability for countless customers, might somehow be complicit in the scam.

Through an unwavering pursuit of justice, Pizzaman Chickenman initiated a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend the masterminds behind these fraudulent schemes. Now, with the perpetrators brought to account, Among those brought to account were individuals picked up from SOGAKOPE in the Volta Region of Ghana.

This documentary offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into the hurdles faced by Pizzaman Chickenman and the measures taken to combat fraud. It serves not only as a testament to the brand’s resilience but also as a cautionary tale for those who might contemplate exploiting reputable brands for illicit gain.

As Pizzaman Chickenman gears up to share its saga with the world, it does so with a renewed determination to safeguard its legacy and uphold the trust bestowed upon it by millions of devoted customers nationwide.

In the face of adversity, Pizzaman Chickenman emerges stronger than ever, reaffirming its status as a beacon of trust and dependability in the fast-food industry. This is more than just a story of triumphing over obstacles; it is a testament to the resilience, resolve, and unwavering commitment to doing what is right.

Pizzaman Chickenman continues its fight against fraudsters, it’s crucial to remain vigilant when conducting online transactions. For secure dealings, customers can contact the company through their verified hotline at 0302753430, Instagram handle, Chris b app, or by visiting any of their branches. Remember, Pizzaman Chickenman upholds its policy: No Food, No Payment, ensuring customer satisfaction and safety. Stay informed and cautious to protect against fraudulent activities.

Austria has been mostly conservative in its financial practices. However, even here, the rise of mobile banking shows just how much consumer behavior has shifted over the past few years. While cash and traditional banking services remain prevalent, the digital landscape is experiencing steady growth, propelled by the emergence of mobile banking applications.

This article delves deeper into the role of UX (user experience) in attracting users to digital platforms and some of the most popular mobile banking apps on the Austrian market.

Mobile banking in Austria: why is the digitalization of financial services a win-win?

Two primary forms of mobile banking dominate the Austrian market: stand-alone, independent mobile banks and mobile banking apps offered by traditional banks. While both categories offer similar services, traditional banks often provide a broader spectrum of financial products such as overdrafts, insurance, and investments.

Despite this, mobile banking offers compelling advantages. Digital-only interfaces eliminate the need for physical paperwork, reducing environmental impact and streamlining complex financial processes. Moreover, they circumvent traditional banking fees, including account management fees and in-person transaction charges.

Most Austrian banking apps furnish users with a comprehensive suite of services, including account management, transfers, contactless payments, investment tracking, and more. However, the efficacy of these services heavily depends on the user experience (UX) design, as emphasized in a report by a popular UX agency. You can read the full report on mobile banking in Austria at Ergomania.

Here are some of the most notable examples of applications with a quality user experience mentioned in the report:

Erste George: mobile banking with style

Modern banking applications have undergone a visual transformation. They embrace engaging interfaces designed to enhance transparency and user experience. Erste George is one of the best examples of this, as it employs vibrant colors and minimalist UX design to create a user-friendly platform. By utilizing contrasting colors and intuitive layouts, Erste George ensures consistent usability across its interface.

Bank Austria’s mobile banking solution: a focus on online account storage

The integration of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology has revolutionized banking applications, simplifying tasks such as invoice scanning and IBAN identification. Bank Austria’s has made full use of this opportunity by offering users the ability to store digital invoices seamlessly. A brief onboarding session guides users through the scanning process, ensuring all new users can understand the functions and benefits of the app easily, contributing to an excellent user experience.

N26: a mobile banking app in Austria that uses cards instead of lists

N26 adopts a card-based interface, replacing traditional lists with visually appealing card elements. This UX design choice improves readability and navigation, allowing users to locate desired features swiftly. N26 promotes user engagement by presenting information in a concise and organized manner.

Raiffeisen Mein Elba: The importance of progressive display in mobile banking

Raiffeisen Mein Elba prioritizes progressive disclosure in its mobile banking design, presenting information in manageable segments. The app’s home page displays accounts in a concise manner, with no overload of information, contributing to a seamless UX. Additional details are accessible through a simple click. By utilizing scrollable accounts, Raiffeisen Mein Elba mobile banking solution maximizes screen space without overwhelming its Austrian target audience.

Easybank: A mobile banking app with useful notifications

Effective notification management is crucial for a positive UX in mobile banking, balancing timely updates with user preferences. Easybank excels in this regard, allowing users to customize notification settings based on their preferences. By empowering users to select relevant notifications, Easybank makes sure that its Austrian users are satisfied.

Mobile banking in Austria and UX – The conclusion

The rise of mobile banking in Austria reflects a broader European trend, with traditional banks striving to match the innovation of digital counterparts.

While notable advancements have been made, opportunities for further innovation persist, including the integration of virtual assistants, gamification, map-based transactions, and built-in banking keyboards. Collaboration with fintech companies presents a promising avenue for future enhancements, enabling banks to expand their service offerings rapidly.

As the Austrian mobile banking landscape evolves, competition will intensify, driving continued innovation and enhancing the user experience. The future holds exciting possibilities for mobile banking in Austria, which also depend on the industry’s ability to surpass emerging challenges and exceed user expectations.

MTN Ghana and Mobile Money LTD have announced their sponsorship of the 2024 3i Africa Summit, scheduled to take place from May 13th to May 15th, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre. 

The 3i Africa Summit is a collaborative initiative by the Bank of Ghana, the Development Bank of Ghana, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore to showcase and stimulate Africa’s Fintech and digital potential. It is being organized under the theme “Unleashing Africa’s FinTech and Digital Economic Potential” and is focused on transforming Africa’s economic landscape through sustainable, long-term capital allocation. 

Commenting on the reason for the sponsorship, the CEO of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, said, “MTN’s objective is to lead digital solutions for Africa’s progress by leveraging our footprint, infrastructure, and technology platforms”. 

He further stated, “The partnership with the 3i Africa summit confirms MTN’s commitment to Africa’s digital transformation”. Blewett believes that the insights and contributions shared at this summit will foster collaborative efforts toward harnessing technology’s transformative power for the benefit of all Africans.

Shaibu Haruna, CEO of Mobile Money LTD, added that the common goal of Mobile Money LTD is to bridge the gap between FinTech and Banking to promote financial inclusion. He stated that the partnership between MobileMoney LTD and 3i Africa illustrates their shared commitment to a sustainable future. By providing financial and digital solutions for both consumers and businesses, FinTech can be used to promote economic growth in Africa.

MTN executives from Ghana and MTN Group will participate in discussions on topics such as infrastructure investment, interoperability of payment systems, and Africa’s FinTech Revolution.

Among the distinguished speakers from MTN are Stephen Blewett, CEO of MTN Ghana, Shaibu Haruna, CEO of Mobile Money Limited Ghana, Angela Mensah-Poku, Chief Enterprise Business Officer MTN Ghana, and Dario Bianchi, Chief Digital Officer -MTN Ghana.

Serigne Dioum CEO- of Group Fintech and Cedric Nguessan- of MTN Group Finco Payments and E-Commerce from MTN Group will be speaking whilst Eli Hini, CEO of MoMo PSB, Nigeria will also be part of the discussions.  

WNBA Golden State has proudly announced the appointment of Ghanaian-American Ohemaa Nyanin as its new general manager, effective next week. (more…)