The Accelerating Impact of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA) project in Ghana has launched a call for applications for its new agribusiness Accelerator Program.

The program aims to leverage private sector networks to address development and business challenges related to scaling products and services that will improve farmers’ productivity and income. 

The call for application which commences on June 3 will run till August 31, 2024.

Under the program, AICCRA and partners will work with individual businesses or consortia of businesses to provide end-to-end solutions for the following Climate Information Services (CIS) and Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) bundles:

Solar Irrigation for female farmers, which aims to Improve resilience, yields and income through the deployment of solar irrigation solutions and supporting adaption through sustainable finance solutions and market access;

Smart Seed Packs and Market Systems for Smallholder Farmers bundle, which aims to improve access to stress and pest-tolerant seed varieties and associated agronomic practices to improve farmers’ resilience, yields, and income;

Smart Productions and Soils bundle, which promote sustainable production and soil health by providing access to agro-advisories, sustainable mechanization technologies and nutrient management practices.  

Climate-Smart Integrated Pest Management bundle, which promotes sustainable management of invasive and climate-driven crop pests and diseases through the deployment of low-toxicity pesticides, biopesticides, biological control and good agroecological practices with plant health benefits;

Dr Faustina Obeng Adomaa, AICCRA’s Program Officer and Coordinator of the accelerator program, said it aims to boost private-sector participation in the Ghana’s climate-resilience efforts. 

“Supporting farmers to mitigate climate risks is critical to ensuring a resilient food system. Through this program, we are aiming to leverage on the strategic role of SMEs in the agriculture sector to deliver solutions that build climate resilience of farmers while being responsive to gender and other social vulnerabilities across the country, “she said.  

Businesses and social enterprises can apply to the program at: https://aiccra.cgiar.org/news/call-applications-ghana-accelerator-program 

 Info and matchmaking events will be held virtually on July 25 and in person on August 1 for applicants to interact with the program’s coordinators, learn more about the program, and explore potential partnerships with other applicants.

Accelerating Impacts of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA) helps deliver a climate-smart African future driven by science and innovation in agriculture. AICCRA works with national partners in Senegal, Ghana, Mali, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Zambia to make climate information services and climate-smart agriculture more accessible to millions of smallholder farmers across Africa. In Ghana, AICCRA is led by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) a member of CGIAR. 

CGIAR is a global research partnership for a food-secure future dedicated to transforming food, land, and water systems in a climate crisis.

Today, MultiChoice published its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report for the financial year ended March 2024. The Report demonstrates the company’s dedication to protecting the planet, empowering people, and offering transformative solutions that create lasting, sustainable value.

This year, MultiChoice celebrates three decades of enriching lives and transforming Africa’s entertainment industry through initiatives that have made more than an impact in the areas of sports, entrepreneurship, sustainability, employee development and increasing capacity to tell local stories. 

MultiChoice’s ESG strategies and initiatives are aligned to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with specific focus on areas where it can make a direct contribution to positive outcomes in the communities in which it operates.

Key highlights in the 2024 ESG Report include:

 

Environment

The impact of climate change on Africa is a pressing concern, especially given its reliance on climate-sensitive sectors. MultiChoice recognises this urgency and is committed to mitigating its environmental impact. The company has taken proactive steps through initiatives such as investing in renewable energy, implementing carbon footprint reduction strategies and adopting sustainable business practices which combat climate change and safeguard the future of our planet.

MultiChoice’s environmental strategy is built on four pillars: strategic partnerships, conserving natural resources, creating solutions that enhance environmental performance, and limiting direct impact on the environment. 

 

A standout partnership is the Earthshot Prize. As a member of this Earthshot Prize Global Alliance, MultiChoice collaborates with The Earthshot Prize to support environmental sustainability in Africa, this year, a record-breaking 400 entries were submitted from across the continent for The Earthshot Prize 2024 and the best African eco-innovators will be selected to compete for these 2024 Awards and stand a chance to win £1 million.

Social

MultiChoice continues to make a meaningful impact in the communities in which it operates, and the company’s commitment extends to respecting human rights, promoting diversity and practicing preferential procurement targeting historically disadvantaged individuals, women and youth.

At a glance, social initiatives included the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), the DStv Schools Netball Challenge, Diski Challenge and the Here for Her campaign.

• In the past year, 102 interns participated in the MTF – a 12-month filmmaking training programme and in South Africa, MTFza interns contributed to over 30 professional productions, including hit shows like Idols, Adulting, My Brother’s Keeper, Champions, and Gen Zee.
• Since 2014, 350 players have been promoted to South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) through the DStv Diski Challenge and last year, 10 Diski Challenge graduates represented the country at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
• The DStv Schools Netball Challenge aims to develop young female athletes who play netball at secondary schools across South Africa. In 2023, over 2 600 high schools enthusiastically participated in the tournament, rendering it one of the most successful school sport events of the year. Throughout the tournament, more than 30 000 passionate schoolgirls engaged in weekly matches during the earlier rounds, including cluster, regional and district playoffs.
• In 2023, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) Player Transition Programme continued its mission to support professional footballers after they retire. The Programme now has a 94% graduation rate, with a significant portion of the cohort successfully graduating in March 2024.
• The Here for Her campaign made history by assembling a 120-strong all-female production crew and cast to successfully deliver the 2023 Netball World Cup, a groundbreaking achievement in the sport industry. This innovative approach included comprehensive in-house training for eight months leading up to the event, ensuring seamless execution and unparalleled quality.

Governance

MultiChoice is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance, ethics and integrity. These principles are fundamental in enabling the business generate value for all stakeholders. One of the company’s biggest focuses in this area has been the fight against the unauthorised retransmission and piracy of its content which poses a significant threat to the business and the wider industry. 

MultiChoice is collaborating with Partners Against Piracy (PAP) and various government departments and stakeholders across Africa to take steps to combat broadcasting piracy. 

Recently, MultiChoice signed MOUs with the Uganda Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and the South African Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services. 

The MOUs aim to establish a partnership for capacity building, benchmarking, and experience sharing, as well as intellectual property rights protection, training, and skills development within legal frameworks. 

The MOU for MultiChoice Africa Holdings B.V (MAH) and the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance also included digitalisation and enhancing the local content sector in Uganda.

Additionally, a multi-governmental workshop was confirmed for mid-2024 to review piracy policies and actions, focusing on amending cybercrime legislation. This workshop will include key departments, such as Justice and Constitutional Development, Communication and Digital Technologies, Correctional Services, demonstrating a collective commitment to combatting piracy and protecting intellectual property rights.

Economic impact

MultiChoice’s strategic initiatives and partnerships have resulted in the company making significant contributions in local content, giving small and medium-sized enterprises a leg up and promoting skills development – all of this has contributed to job creation and economic empowerment.

• To date, the MultiChoice Innovation Fund has supported 77 black-owned small businesses with at least 50% female-black ownership and disbursed R407m in loans, grants and business development expenses. This has created 1 400 employment opportunities.
• The MultiChoice Accelerator programme on the other hand enabled 11 entrepreneurs from South Africa to secure over US$17m in investments from investors in the United Arab Emirates, demonstrating MultiChoice’s track record in supporting entrepreneurship and driving economic growth across the continent.
• Last year, the Enterprise Development Fund funded four new companies, including two owned by black women. This R26.74m funding was directed towards tech-enabled sectors and created 395 jobs.
• In FY24, SuperSport launched the SuperSport Learnership, welcoming 41 unemployed youth, 80% of whom are women.
• MultiChoice also continued its partnership with the Youth Employment Services (YES) programme – bringing the total number of created to 1 585 since partnership started.

To learn more about MultiChoice’s development programs, socio-economic investments, and the stories of those who have benefited from this extensive support, please refer to the Group’s 2024 ESG Report available at multichoice.com .

                                                                           

If you’re looking for affordable smoking options, including cheap cigarettes and menthol cigarettes, Select Vape is an excellent place to start. This guide will help you understand how to find the best deals on cigarettes and vapes at Select Vape and other online stores.

Why Choose Select Vape?

Select Vape offers a wide range of smoking products, including cigarettes, vapes, and accessories. Here’s why Select Vape stands out:

Affordable Prices

One of the main reasons to shop at Select Vape is the affordability. They offer competitive prices on a variety of smoking products, making it easier for you to find cheap cigarettes and other items.

Wide Selection

Select Vape provides a diverse range of products, ensuring you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for cheap menthol cigarettes or a new vape device, you’ll find what you need.

Convenience

Shopping at Select Vape is convenient. You can browse their extensive selection of products from the comfort of your home and have your purchases delivered directly to your door.

How to Find Cheap Cigarettes at Select Vape

Finding cheap cigarettes at Select Vape is straightforward. Follow these steps to get the best deals:

1. Browse the Cigarette Section

Visit the Select Vape website and navigate to the cigarette section. Here, you’ll find various brands and types of cigarettes, including menthol options.

2. Look for Discounts and Promotions

Select Vape often runs promotions and discounts on their products. Keep an eye out for special deals on cheap cigarettes and other smoking products. Sign up for their newsletter to receive updates on sales and promotions.

3. Compare Prices

Before making a purchase, compare the prices of different cigarette brands. Select Vape offers various options, so take your time to find the best deal on the cigarettes you prefer.

4. Check for Bulk Discounts

Buying cigarettes in bulk can save you money. Select Vape sometimes offers bulk discounts on larger quantities, making it more cost-effective to stock up.

Finding Cheap Menthol Cigarettes

If you’re specifically looking for cheap menthol cigarettes, Select Vape has you covered. Here’s how to find them:

1. Use the Search Function

Use the search bar on the Select Vape website to look for menthol cigarettes. This will help you quickly find the products you’re interested in.

2. Filter by Price

Use the price filter to narrow down your search to the most affordable options. This will help you find cheap menthol cigarettes without having to browse through more expensive items.

3. Read Product Reviews

Check the product reviews to see what other customers have to say about the menthol cigarettes you’re considering. This can help you make an informed decision and ensure you’re getting a quality product at a good price.

Exploring Other Options: Cigarette Stores

While Select Vape is a great option for finding affordable cigarettes and vapes, you may also want to explore other online cigarette stores for comparison.

Online Stores

Several online stores specialize in selling cheap cigarettes and other smoking products. Some popular options include:

• Duty-Free Stores: These stores often offer tax-free cigarettes at lower prices.
• Wholesale Cigarette Stores: Buying in bulk from a wholesale store can save you money.
• Discount Tobacco Shops: Look for online discount shops that specialize in selling cheap cigarettes.

Local Stores

Don’t forget to check your local cigarette stores. Sometimes, local shops offer promotions and discounts that can help you save money on your favorite brands.

Tips for Buying Cigarettes and Vapes Online

When shopping for cigarettes and vapes online, keep these tips in mind:

1. Verify the Seller

Ensure that the online store is reputable and has good customer reviews. This will help you avoid scams and low-quality products.

2. Check Shipping Policies

Review the shipping policies to understand the costs and delivery times. Some stores offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount, which can save you money.

3. Understand the Return Policy

Make sure you understand the return policy in case you need to return or exchange a product. A good return policy can provide peace of mind when shopping online.

4. Compare Prices

Take the time to compare prices across different stores. This will help you find the best deals and ensure you’re getting the most value for your money.

Conclusion

Finding cheap cigarettes and vapes, including menthol options, is easy with Select Vape and other reputable online stores. By following the tips in this guide, you can secure the best deals and enjoy a wide selection of smoking products. Start by browsing the Select Vape website and take advantage of their affordable prices and convenient shopping experience.

In the ever-evolving landscape of virtual finance, Bitcoin stands proud as a revolutionary pressure, reshaping the manner we consider cash, transactions, and price. Since its inception in 2009 through the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin has no longer simplest introduced the world to the idea of cryptocurrencies however has also laid down the foundational principles of decentralized finance. This article explores the Bitcoin paradigm, its virtual foundations, and its ways-achieving implications.

The Birth of Bitcoin

 

Bitcoin was created in response to the 2008 economic crisis, which exposed the vulnerabilities of traditional banking structures. Satoshi Nakamoto’s whitepaper, “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System,” mentioned a brand new shape of forex that operates without a central authority, depending as a substitute on a decentralized network of computer systems. This innovation promised an extra obvious, stable, and efficient manner to deal with financial transactions.

How Bitcoin Works

At its core, Bitcoin operates on an era called blockchain, a dispensed ledger that facts all transactions throughout a network of computers. Here’s a simplified review of how Bitcoin capabilities:

• Decentralization: Unlike conventional currencies managed through governments and banks, Bitcoin is maintained by means of a community of nodes (computer systems) that validate and record transactions.
• Blockchain Technology: Transactions are grouped into blocks and added to a sequence, growing an immutable report. Each block carries a cryptographic hash of the preceding block, linking them collectively.
• Mining: New Bitcoins are created through a procedure referred to as mining, in which powerful computers resolve complex mathematical problems to validate transactions and upload them to the blockchain.
• Limited supply: Bitcoin has a limited quantity of 21 million coins, making it a deflationary asset. This scarcity is a critical component of its cost argument.

The Advantages of Bitcoin

Bitcoin gives several blessings over conventional monetary structures:

• Security: The blockchain’s cryptographic nature ensures that transactions are stable and tamper-evidence.
• Transparency: Every transaction is recorded on a public ledger, taking into account complete transparency and traceability.
• Lower Transaction Fees: Bitcoin transactions usually have decreased costs compared to standard banking and remittance offerings.
• Accessibility: Bitcoin may be accessed and utilized by anyone with an internet connection, providing monetary offerings to the unbanked and underbanked populations.
• Resistance to Censorship: Transactions can not be without difficulty censored or reversed through any valuable authority.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite its numerous blessings, Bitcoin is not without its demanding situations and criticisms:

• Volatility: Bitcoin’s rate is exceptionally volatile, which can be a barrier to its adoption as a solid foreign money.
• Regulatory Uncertainty: Governments around the world are still grappling with the way to regulate Bitcoin and different cryptocurrencies.
• Energy Consumption: Bitcoin mining requires enormous energy sources, leading to environmental issues.
• Scalability: The Bitcoin network can deal with a limited number of transactions consistent with 2nd, which may hinder its ability to scale.

The Future of Bitcoin

As Bitcoin continues to mature, its position inside the global monetary gadget is probably to grow bigger. Here are a few ability developments:

• Mainstream Adoption: More businesses and individuals are beginning to just accept and use Bitcoin for regular transactions.
• Institutional Investment: Large financial institutions are an increasing number of making an investment in Bitcoin, lending it more legitimacy and stability.
• Technological Innovations: Advances in blockchain technology, together with the Lightning Network, purpose to cope with Bitcoin’s scalability issues.
• Regulatory Clarity: Clearer rules will help mitigate dangers and foster wider adoption.

Best Crypto Wallet

Selecting the best crypto wallet is vital for absolutely everyone concerned inside the global cryptocurrencies.A crypto wallet stores private keys that are used to get admission to and manage Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. When thinking about the fine crypto wallet, several factors come into play:

• Security Features: Look for wallets with robust safety functions, such as two-element authentication (2FA) and biometric verification.
• User Experience: A consumer-friendly interface could make dealing with your crypto property a lot less difficult.
• Compatibility: Ensure the wallets support a wide variety of cryptocurrencies in case you plan to hold more than just Bitcoin.
• Backup Options: Good wallets offer clean backup and healing alternatives to safeguard your belongings.
• Customer Support: Reliable customer support can assist resolve any issues or issues right away.

Some of the most famous crypto wallets encompass:

• Ledger Nano X: A hardware wallet known for its high security and support for a couple of cryptocurrencies.
• Trezor Model T: Another hardware wallet with a sturdy reputation for safety and ease of use.
• Exodus: A software wallet with an intuitive interface and built-in alternate features.
• Trust Wallet: A cellular wallet that supports a huge variety of cryptocurrencies and is known for its protection features.

The Transformative Impact of Bitcoin

Bitcoin has undeniably changed the panorama of virtual finance, providing a decentralized, stable, and transparent alternative to traditional monetary systems. While it faces demanding situations and criticisms, its capacity for mainstream adoption and technological innovation stays strong. Understanding the Bitcoin paradigm and its virtual foundations is critical for every body looking to navigate the evolving world of cryptocurrencies. As Bitcoin keeps developing, it’ll undoubtedly play an enormous role in shaping the future of cash.

There’s something undeniably charming about vintage outdoor furniture, isn’t there? The intricate designs, the weathered textures, the stories they could tell. But how do these decades-old pieces fit into the sleek, minimalist aesthetic of modern homes? Do their character-filled forms clash with the clean, straight lines predominant in contemporary design? Not. At. All. Today, we chart the artful process of successfully bringing vintage outdoor furniture into the realm of your modern abode, while ensuring the harmony and aesthetic appeal of your space. We’ll also discover why even the gnarliest garden bench can, and should, have a vested place within your home’s architecture.

In today’s fast-paced world, we’re all a little bit obsessed with the new. But there’s a certain allure that comes from well-loved items that ‘new’ just can’t deliver. The quest for individuality in our homes has led many of us to scour op-shops, flea markets, and auction houses in a bid to find unique items that infuse personality into our living spaces. And vintage outdoor furniture, with its worn-in charm, makes for a perfect conversation-starting centrepiece. 

Here’s the question: How to unpick the potential of these treasures and make them work for your modern space? Sit back, as we hold your hand through this design journey, and unfold the mystery of seamlessly integrating vintage outdoor furniture into your modern home.

The Why – Embracing Vintage Charm in Modern Settings

Incorporating vintage furniture into a modern setting speaks of harmony, creating a beautiful blend of the old and new. This not only invites the charm and personality of years passed, but also reinvigorates and enlivens your space. In addition, knowing you are giving new life to an old piece adds a gratifying sense of stewardship.

The What – Selecting the Right Vintage Pieces

Choosing vintage pieces effectively involves understanding both the aesthetics and the structural integrity of the items. Seek high quality, authentic pieces that offer both aesthetic appeal and sturdy construction to achieve a balance between style and practicality.

The Where – Strategic Placement Matters

The positioning of your vintage pieces can make or break the overall design. Choose locations that highlight your furniture’s character without making them stand out awkwardly.

The When – Timing Your Vintage Finds

There’s a certain charm in hunting for vintage treasures. Take your time. The right piece is worth the wait and hunt, as it can add unexpected depth to your home design.

The Pros and Cons – of Vintage Outdoor Furniture

From adding unique character to environmental sustainability, the benefits of vintage furniture are abundant. However, one must also anticipate potential challenges like maintenance and the possibility of needed repairs.

The How – Personalizing Your Vintage Furniture 

Feel free to add personal touches to your vintage items. This could be as simple as a vibrant throw pillow, a topping of fresh flowers, or even a complete restoration.

Conclusion: In Harmony with History

Endowing a modern home with vintage outdoor furniture creates an unparalleled blend of past and present. This interplay between contrasting eras draws interest, incites conversation, and most importantly, makes a house feel like a home. The diligent choice of what, where, and when to introduce these vintage pieces can dramatically alter your space, ensuring it resonates with a charm that is uniquely yours. By embracing this union of opposites, we cultivate spaces brimming with character, authenticity, and a timeless elegance that holds its own.

Remember to think creatively, act sustainably, and above all, enjoy the journey that vintage hunting encompasses. Because design, after all, should be as much about the process as it is about the outcome.

Industrial floor painting is more than just an aesthetic upgrade; it’s a comprehensive solution that enhances the functionality, safety, and durability of floors in various industrial settings. Whether you operate a warehouse, factory, or garage, industrial floor painting offers numerous benefits that can significantly transform your space. This article explores these benefits, providing a detailed understanding of why industrial floor painting is a wise investment for your business.

Enhancing Aesthetics

One of the most immediate benefits of industrial floor painting is the dramatic improvement in the appearance of a space. A fresh coat of paint can transform a dull, worn-out floor into a clean, polished surface that enhances the overall look of your facility. This visual upgrade not only creates a positive impression on clients and visitors but also boosts employee morale.

Industrial floor painting offers a wide range of customization options, allowing businesses to choose from various colors, patterns, and finishes. Whether you prefer a sleek, glossy finish or a more textured, matte look, there’s a coating to match your aesthetic preferences.

By incorporating your company’s logo, colors, and other branding elements into the floor design, you can create a cohesive brand image that reinforces your corporate identity.

Improving Safety

Safety is a paramount concern in any industrial setting, and industrial floor painting can significantly enhance safety by providing slip-resistant surfaces. Non-slip coatings reduce the risk of slips and falls, creating a safer working environment for employees.

Industrial floor coatings can be used to mark hazardous areas, walkways, and safety zones, improving visibility and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Clear, well-marked floors help prevent accidents and guide employees and visitors safely through the facility.

For environments with low-light conditions, reflective and luminescent floor coatings offer additional safety benefits. These coatings enhance visibility by reflecting light or glowing in the dark, making it easier to navigate the space safely.

Durability and Protection

Industrial floors endure significant wear and tear from heavy machinery, foot traffic, and other demanding activities. Industrial floor paints are designed to withstand these conditions, providing a durable surface that resists scratches, dents, and abrasions.

In environments where floors are exposed to chemicals, using chemical-resistant coatings is essential. These coatings protect the floor from damage caused by spills and chemical reactions, ensuring the longevity and safety of the surface.

Industrial floor coatings also offer protection against moisture and stains. This is particularly important in areas prone to spills or high humidity, as it prevents water damage and staining, maintaining the floor’s integrity and appearance over time.

Maintenance and Cost-Effectiveness

One of the practical benefits of industrial floor painting is the ease of maintenance. Painted floors are smooth and non-porous, making them easy to clean and reducing the time and effort required for regular maintenance.

While the initial investment in industrial floor painting may seem significant, it offers long-term savings by reducing the need for frequent floor repairs and replacements. A well-maintained painted floor can last for many years, providing excellent value for money.

To prolong the lifespan of painted industrial floors, it’s essential to follow a regular maintenance plan. This includes routine cleaning, periodic inspections, and timely touch-ups to address any wear and tear. By adhering to a maintenance schedule, businesses can ensure their floors remain in optimal condition for years to come.

Environmental and Health Benefits

As environmental concerns continue to rise, many businesses are opting for eco-friendly floor coatings. These coatings are made from sustainable materials and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) formulations, reducing their environmental impact and contributing to a healthier workplace.

Industrial floor painting helps businesses comply with health and safety regulations by providing a clean, safe, and well-maintained environment. Proper floor coatings minimize the risk of accidents and exposure to harmful substances, ensuring a safer workplace for employees.

Properly coated floors can also improve indoor air quality by reducing dust and allergens. This is particularly beneficial in environments where air quality is a concern, as it helps create a healthier and more comfortable space for workers.

Choosing the Right Solution

Selecting the right industrial floor coating begins with assessing your specific needs. Consider the type of environment, the level of foot and machinery traffic, and any exposure to chemicals or moisture. Understanding these factors will help you choose the most suitable coating for your space.

While DIY floor painting may seem cost-effective, hiring professionals ensures a higher-quality finish and longer-lasting results. Professional contractors have the expertise, equipment, and materials to deliver a superior outcome, saving you time and potential headaches.

When selecting a contractor for your industrial floor painting project, consider their experience, reputation, and customer reviews. If you are located in or around the London area, you can find reputable industrial floor painters near London who can deliver top-notch service.

Conclusion

Industrial floor painting is a versatile and effective solution for enhancing the appearance, safety, and durability of your floors. By investing in high-quality floor coatings, businesses can transform their spaces, creating a more attractive, functional, and safe environment. Whether you’re looking to improve aesthetics, boost safety, or protect your floors from wear and tear, industrial floor painting offers a range of benefits that make it a worthwhile investment.