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This is how Mustapha Diyaol Haqq, a 19-year-old from Kumasi is proving that Africa’s future lies in its talented youth

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Mustapha Diyaol Haqq

“It takes a village to raise a child”: as the Fourth Industrial Revolution sweeps across Africa and more of its youth develop coding and other digital skills, there may come a time to update this old saying to: “It takes one child to raise the prospects of a village.” And based on the quest of one young man from a village in Ghana to solve some of the major problems faced by his community, this saying could become commonplace as more young innovators enter the fray.

Inspired by global technology success stories, Mustapha Diyaol Haqq, a 19-year-old from Kumasi in Southern Ghana, realised he too could deliver innovation where it was most needed, starting with his very home town. “Seeing how the big tech companies used innovation to solve some of the world’s biggest problems made me realise how important it is to learn to code,” says Haqq. “I looked online for any free courses that could help me develop coding skills and completed as many as I could.”

Despite being self-taught, Haqq was able to develop a potentially life-saving solution for women across the continent. “I used my knowledge of coding and machine learning to develop a model for diagnosing breast cancer, which I hope to release freely to communities across Africa,” says Haqq. Also high on his agenda, hunger and food security which he sees as two of the biggest challenges faced by the continent’s rapidly growing population. “Africa relies heavily on smallholder farmers to meet its food production needs. However, much of the produce from farms are spoilt before it reaches the markets in the cities. I’m currently working on a machine learning and AI model that can help reduce post-harvest losses and ensure the work our farmers do translate into food security for our communities.”

Connectivity challenges remain limiting

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One of Haqq’s biggest challenges when learning to code was accessing the internet. “We don’t have a good internet connection where we live, so I had to walk kilometres to an internet café where I could access free online coding courses. Internet access is expensive but, thanks to the generous support of my parents, who made some sacrifices to give me a chance to complete a few online courses, I built sufficient coding skills to start developing solutions to some of the problems affecting our community.”

Ghana suffers from poor internet penetration, with only 14% of the population having access to the internet. Despite this, the Ghanaian government has set out an ambitious plan to position the country as a leader in ICT innovation in the sub-Saharan Africa region by 2023. Young innovators such as Haqq will undoubtedly play a crucial role in achieving the government’s ambitions and inspiring more youth to pursue careers in tech.

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Haqq says internet access is also the single biggest obstacle to greater adoption of coding among African youth. “Our continent does not enjoy the fixed-line infrastructure of our more developed peers, and mobile internet can be expensive. For me to afford the internet cafes where I learned to code, my parents had to make sacrifices. Global companies can play an invaluable support role by investing in providing internet access to our communities to support us as we get ready for a digital future.”

Lighting a coding fire among Africa’s youth as Youth Ambassador for Africa Code Week 2019

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One of the initiatives working to address digital literacy in Ghana is SAP’s Africa Code Week, an annual, continent-wide digital literacy programme that has engaged over 4.1 million youth in 37 African countries since 2015. “I participated in Africa Code Week as an opportunity to share my knowledge with young people in my community and inspire more youngsters to learn one of the most important languages of our time: coding,” says Haqq. “I am also a volunteer and instructor for Ghana Code Club, and with the help of some friends we have established coding clubs in several communities, where we spend our free time and weekends teaching both kids and adults to code. Being appointed Youth Ambassador for ACW 2019 is a dream come true, and a unique opportunity to inspire change on a global platform, encouraging young talents across the continent to learn digital skills and code the change they want to see in their community.”

SAP, UNESCO and over 130 partners from the public, private and non-profit sectors are currently gearing up to introduce coding skills to 1.5 million youth across 37 countries in October 2019. According to Claire Gillissen-Duval, Director of EMEA Corporate Social Responsibility and Africa Code Week Global Lead at SAP, this 2019 edition will feature a strong focus on empowering girls and building teaching capacity at the community level, hence the importance of role models like Mustapha. “We are extremely proud and honoured to welcome Mustapha as our Youth Ambassador for ACW 2019. He overcame major challenges and his amazing journey has the power to inspire many. As a young innovator and change maker, his mentorship and guidance will be crucial as we strive to empower an entire generation and strengthen teaching capacity in ICT education among African communities.”

Stay tuned for #ACW2019 taking place in October across 37 countries. For more information visit www.africacodeweek.org

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BEING A JUDGE FOR THE MODEL INTERNATIONAL IS A BIG PORTFOLIO – EX MP BARBARA AYISI ASHER

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Honorable Barbara Asher Ayisi

Former Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North constituency in the Central Region, Barbara Ayisi Asher, took on the prestigious role of judging the Cape Coast Audition for The Model International, adding yet another feather to her cap of accomplishments. Not only did she oversee the audition, but she also secured her place as a guest judge on the show itself, solidifying her position as not just a politician but a prominent figure in the world of fashion and entertainment.

The Cape Coast Audition, which served as a gateway for aspiring models in the region, marked the beginning of an exciting journey towards discovering West Africa’s next top talents in modeling. However, the spotlight now shifts to the bustling city of Accra, where the next round of auditions is set to take place.

Scheduled for Saturday, the 4th of May 2024, the Accra audition will be hosted at the prestigious Gold Coast Restaurant, conveniently located near Rockstone’s Office, Cantonments. Doors will open at 10 am, welcoming female West Africans between the ages of 18-26, residing or schooling in Ghana, to showcase their flair and passion for the runway, the camera and the screens.

Registration for the audition comes at a nominal fee of GHS100.00, providing participants with a chance to compete for the coveted title of The Model International, mouth-watering contracts and $2000.00 cash prize. To secure a spot in the audition line-up, aspiring models can register online at www.themodelinternational.com/register or seek assistance by contacting Esther, via call or WhatsApp on +233 50 890 6222.

The Model International promises to be a spectacle of talent, elegance, and glamour, captivating audiences across the nation. Set to premiere on Metro TV from the 1st of June 2024, viewers can tune in every Saturday at 8 pm to witness the unfolding drama and excitement of the competition.

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As the anticipation mounts and the countdown to the grand premiere begins, the stage is set for an exhilarating journey towards declaring the next face of West African modelling and fashion. With Barbara Ayisi Asher involved, The Model International is poised to redefine standards of cat walking with grace, elegance in front of the camera and shaping the future of the fashion industry one runway at a time.

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African Development Bank appoints Ambassador Jalel Trabelsi as Special Envoy for Middle East and North Africa and Gulf Region

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The President of the African Development Bank Group Dr. Akinwumi Adesina  has appointed career diplomat Ambassador Jalel Trabelsi as his Special Envoy for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Gulf Region.

Ambassador Trabelsi brings to the role over 30 years of experience as a highly accomplished and distinguished diplomat.

As Special Envoy for MENA and the Gulf Region, Ambassador Trabelsi will help to foster diplomatic and strategic engagements within the MENA and Gulf Region, focusing on the Bank’s strategic priorities, strengthening partnerships and mobilizing public and private sector resources at scale to deliver transformational projects in Africa.

A Tunisian citizen, Ambassador Trabelsi’s diplomatic career is marked by significant roles and contributions. He served as Minister Plenipotentiary for African Affairs, and was the Ambassador of Tunisia to Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, Sierra Leone, and the Economic Community of West Africa (Ecowas). He also served as the Dean of the Council of Arab Ambassadors and in other roles as an Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Head of the National Commission for Tunisia’s candidacy to the Presidency of the African Development Bank.

He is also a specialist in international law and taught Diplomatic International Law at university level.

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Ambassador Trabelsi holds an Advanced Master in Maritime and Aviation Law from Belgium’s Université Libre de Bruxelles, where he undertook his undergraduate degree in political science and international relations and passed with the highest honors. He also holds a Master’s degree in political science from the University of Tunis. He is multilingual with fluency in English, French, and Arabic.

Commenting on his appointment, Ambassador Trabelsi said: “I am extremely honoured to be appointed by Dr. Adesina to this role. As an African, I am motivated to continue to serve our continent and to contribute to the African Development Bank’s transformational work under the visionary leadership of Dr. Adesina. I will work to ensure the Bank maintains and further strengthens its excellent and fruitful cooperation and partnership with Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Gulf Region.”

Dr. Adesina said: “I am delighted to have Ambassador Trabelsi as my Special Envoy for a region that holds a lot of promise for the Bank’s and Africa’s economic transformation. He has a strong track record and expertise in international relations and cooperation as well as international negotiation. He brings extensive knowledge in African, Arab, and European affairs and a deep understanding of the activities of the Bank, as well as other regional and international financial banking institutions.”

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KFC Ghana Introduces the “Streetwise Wings Meal” for ONLY GH¢30, KFC will also Embark on Donating 500 Streetwise Wing Meals Every Month to Basic Schools!

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Streetwise Wings Meal

KFC Ghana is excited to announce the latest addition to their Streetwise menu: the “Streetwise Wings Meal.” This new offering is a perfect blend of KFC’s signature crispy wings paired with a side of delightfully spicy rice, all for an affordable price of GH¢ 30.

The “Streetwise Wings Meal” is a flavorful adventure meant to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. The meal consists of three juicy and perfectly fried chicken wings, coated in KFC’s famous blend of herbs and spices. To complement the crispy wings, the meal includes a generous serving of spicy rice—a hearty side that packs a punch and ensures a fulfilling dining experience.

“KFC Ghana is always looking for ways to deliver value and satisfaction to our customers,” said the Digital and E-commerce Manager of KFC Ghana. “We believe that the Streetwise Wings Meal does just that, providing a balanced and flavorful meal at a price point that is accessible for everyone. It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a delicious dinner on the go.”

The Streetwise Wings Meal is now available for order through the KFC Ghana App, with options for delivery, in-store pickup, or dine-in. The App is designed to provide the utmost convenience for customers, allowing for seamless ordering and payment. You can download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and get your meal with just a few taps on your smartphone.500 Donation of Streetwise Wings Meal

KFC assures that all meals are prepared following the highest standards of quality and hygiene, ensuring that customers not only get a delicious meal but also a safe one.

So, whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal, the new Streetwise Wings Meal is here to make your day a little more flavorful. Head to the nearest KFC or get the app now to enjoy this spicy new treat!

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In addition to offering the delectable “Streetwise Wings Meal,” KFC Ghana is expanding its community support by announcing a generous donation campaign and will be donating 500 Streetwise Wing Meals at selected basic schools every month across the country. This initiative invites customers or social media users to nominate a school for a chance to enjoy this amazing offer, illustrating KFC Ghana’s commitment to giving back to the community. With the addition of this charitable action, KFC Ghana reinforces its reputation as a brand that not only provides value through its meals but also invests in the welfare of its community and its employees. Updates will be communicated via KFC Ghana’s social media platforms. Don’t forget to follow the social media pages and nominate a school!

Facebook: KFC Ghana

Instagram: @KFCGhana

X: @KFC_Ghana

TikTok: @KFC_Ghana 

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Reasons Why People Go For Car Subscription

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For some time now, people engaged in car subscription services such as car replacement have become one of the most popular incorporations compared to conventional car ownership and leasing. These can be listed as the advantages of the inventive method to access vehicles proven to bring in many consumers. 

Why many people are now moving to car subscriptions

One of the main factors that affect the success of these car subscription services is the unparalleled flexibility they provide. Traditional car ownership or leasing has been the order of the day with long term commitments and the conscientious task of paying for petrol filling and car servicing. However, due to the nature of car subscriptions, such as short-term basis access, the ability to switch between different models depending on one’s needs can be achieved.

Lap of car subscriptions plan there is transparency and accurate prediction costs. While regular car ownership can accumulate a variety of expenditures, such as the buying price, interest for financing, insurance, fuel, services and so on. These expenses can trend up or down significantly at different times and are sometimes difficult to predict ahead of the other way around.  

The choice of a large selection of cars for car subscription services means that people can quickly get what they like and need from the huge range of cars. The type is lovely to those driven by the need to change the type of car they drive or those who need more than one right car simultaneously. For instance, they might settle for a compact city car for their daily journey on the weekdays and go for the large SUV in case of a weekend family excursion.

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Regular car ownership and leasing are very long-term and include significant risks; you must figure out many things. The single cash outlay for purchasing a vehicle is usually considerable compared to leasing, a progressive payment option usually with penalties if terminated before the contract period. These two also substitute each other for consumers facing the risk of fast depreciation, mechanical problems and possible high expenses related to repair.

Car subscription services allow users to sign up for a short period and to hear about insurance coverage. Many of our subscriptions last for a month, and in case you need to unsubscribe or put your membership on hold, you will need short notice. The indifference to long-term engagement speaks for those who cannot commit themselves for a long-term period or need to be bigger to decide on a considerable investment, Contact SwitchCars for vehicle subscription.

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Car subscription services are built to the notion of environmental stewardship, which has recently gained much more prominence.  Utilizing car subscriptions, shared mobility is encouraged by shifting people from traditional car ownership to eco-friendly, seeing as alternatives were provided.

 

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7 Ways For A Seamless Living Spaces in Tropical Climates

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Natural Ventilation How It Works and How Youll Benefit From It

Living in a tropical climate presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to home design. The warmth and humidity can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can create a living space that not only copes with the environment but also thrives in it.

Here are seven effective ways to design comfortable living spaces that suit tropical climates to keep your home cool, airy, and inviting all year round.

1. Optimize Natural Ventilation

Enhancing natural airflow is one of the most effective ways to keep your home cool in a tropical climate. Design your home with large windows and doors aligned to catch prevailing winds.

Consider installing ventilated roofing systems that allow hot air to escape and cooler air to enter. This not only reduces the reliance on air conditioning but also improves indoor air quality.

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2. Use Light-Colored Paints and Reflective Materials

The color and materials you choose for your home can have a significant impact on temperature. Light-colored walls and roofs reflect sunlight, significantly reducing heat absorption compared to darker colors. Reflective materials or paints specifically designed for thermal control can be used on roofs to deflect the sun’s rays, keeping indoor spaces cooler.

3. Incorporate Shade Solutions

Effective use of shade can drastically reduce the heat in your home. Planting trees strategically around your house can block direct sunlight while adding to the aesthetic value of your property.

Additionally, consider using awnings, canopies, or extended overhangs to shade windows from the intense midday sun. These solutions not only help in cooling your home naturally but also extend the life of your furnishings by protecting them from sun damage.

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4. Update Your Furniture Choices

Furniture not only needs to be stylish but also functional, especially in a tropical climate. Opt for pieces made from natural fibers like rattan, bamboo, or wicker, which are more breathable than upholstered furniture.

These materials don’t absorb heat and allow air to circulate freely, making them ideal for humid environments. For instance, you can find coffee tables on sale that are stylish, functional, and don’t absorb heat as much.

5. Choose Appropriate Flooring

Flooring choices can greatly affect the thermal comfort of your home. In tropical climates, we recommend using materials that stay cool underfoot, such as ceramic tiles, marble, or polished concrete.

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They don’t retain heat and add a sleek, modern touch to your home. Rugs and carpets might be used sparingly as they can trap heat and contribute to a stuffier feeling.

6. Embrace Outdoor Living Areas

To make the most of the tropical environment, design your home to include comfortable outdoor living spaces. Covered patios, decks, and verandas provide the perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment while allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings without discomfort from the heat.

Furnishing these areas with weather-resistant furniture and vibrant plants can enhance the overall comfort and beauty of your home.

7. Implement Smart Cooling Technologies

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Modern technology offers various solutions to help keep your home cool. Energy-efficient air conditioners, smart fans, and automated blinds can significantly enhance indoor comfort.

These technologies can be programmed to adjust according to temperature changes throughout the day, ensuring your home stays cool without constant manual adjustment. For more on integrating these technologies into your home, consider exploring some modern home improvement ideas.

Enhancing Comfort in Tropical Climates

Creating a comfortable living space in a tropical climate is about balancing functionality with aesthetics. These approaches not only improve quality of life but also potentially reduce energy consumption, making homes as eco-friendly as it is comfortable.

With thoughtful planning and strategic design, we can create a space that stays cool, inviting, and stylish throughout the year. Let’s embrace the unique challenges of our tropical locale and turn them into opportunities to innovate and revitalize our living spaces.

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Broker Trading Essentials: Your Blueprint for Trading Success

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Trading in the financial markets can be both exciting and daunting. To navigate this complex landscape successfully, having the right broker is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore the key essentials of broker trading and how to choose the best broker for your trading journey.

Understanding Broker Trading

What is Broker Trading?

Broker trading encompasses the utilization of brokerage services to conduct trades across diverse financial markets. Essentially, brokers serve as intermediaries, bridging the gap between traders and the market itself. Their role involves facilitating transactions and granting traders access to a wide array of trading platforms. When delving into the world of broker trading, finding the best broker for day trading is paramount. These brokers specialize in catering to the unique needs of day traders, offering features such as lightning-fast execution, low commissions, and advanced trading tools tailored to capitalize on intraday price movements.

Importance of Brokers

Brokers play a crucial role in the trading process by offering trading platforms, market research, and execution services. They provide access to a wide range of financial instruments, including stocks, currencies, commodities, and more.

Choosing the Right Broker

Factors to Consider

When selecting a broker, several factors should be considered, including reputation, fees, trading platform, customer service, and regulatory compliance. It’s essential to choose a broker that aligns with your trading goals and preferences.

Comparison of Top Brokers

In this section, we’ll conduct a thorough comparison of some of the top brokers, evaluating their suitability for day trading, forex trading, and overall trading performance. Whether you’re an experienced trader or just starting out, finding the right broker is crucial for success in the financial markets. From well-established industry giants to innovative newcomers, we’ll explore a diverse range of options to help you identify the perfect match for your trading style. As we delve into this comparison, we’ll consider factors such as trading fees, platform features, customer support, and reliability to ensure that you can make an informed decision when selecting the ideal forex trading broker for your needs.

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Setting Up Your Trading Account

Step-by-Step Guide

Embarking on your trading journey begins with setting up a trading account. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll navigate through the process, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. From selecting the best broker for forex trading to completing essential documentation and undergoing account verification, we’ll cover each aspect comprehensively. With our guidance, you’ll navigate the account setup process seamlessly, setting a solid foundation for your trading endeavors.

Account Funding

Once your trading account is established, the next crucial step is funding it adequately to kickstart your trading activities. In this section, we’ll delve into various deposit methods available, ranging from bank transfers to e-wallets and credit/debit cards. Additionally, we’ll explore the minimum funding requirements set by different brokers and provide insights into managing your trading capital effectively. By understanding the nuances of account funding, you’ll be better equipped to optimize your trading journey and capitalize on lucrative opportunities in the forex market.

Trading Tools and Platforms

Importance of Trading Platforms

A reliable trading platform serves as the backbone of your trading operations, providing the necessary tools and functionalities to execute trades with precision. In this section, we’ll delve into the importance of trading platforms and explore how they impact your trading experience. From user-friendly interfaces to robust charting tools and advanced order types, we’ll dissect the key features that define a top-tier trading platform. Additionally, we’ll highlight the significance of mobile accessibility, allowing you to stay connected to the markets anytime, anywhere. By understanding the pivotal role of trading platforms, you’ll be better equipped to select the best broker for forex trading and elevate your trading endeavors to new heights.

Leveraging Technology

In today’s fast-paced trading environment, technology reigns supreme, revolutionizing the way traders interact with the markets. In this section, we’ll explore the transformative impact of advanced trading tools, algorithms, and automation on your trading journey. From algorithmic trading strategies to automated risk management systems, we’ll uncover how technology can streamline your trading process and enhance performance. Additionally, we’ll discuss the importance of staying abreast of technological advancements and adopting innovative tools to gain a competitive edge in the market. By leveraging technology to your advantage, you’ll unlock new opportunities and pave the way for trading success in the dynamic world of forex.

Risk Management Strategies

Managing Risk

Risk management is paramount in trading to protect your capital and minimize losses. We’ll share practical tips and strategies for setting stop-loss orders, diversifying your portfolio, and managing leverage effectively.

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Embracing Volatility

Volatility is inherent in financial markets, presenting both opportunities and risks for traders. We’ll explore how to embrace volatility and use it to your advantage while mitigating downside risk.

Tips for Successful Trading

Establishing Trading Goals

Setting clear trading goals and objectives is essential for success. We’ll discuss how to define your trading goals, create a trading plan, and stay disciplined in executing your strategy.

Continuous Learning

The financial markets are constantly evolving, and successful traders never stop learning. We’ll share resources and educational tools to help you stay informed and enhance your trading skills over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering broker trading requires a combination of knowledge, skill, and discipline. By understanding the essentials of broker trading and choosing the right broker, you can embark on a successful trading journey and achieve your financial goals. Remember to stay informed, manage risk effectively, and continuously adapt to market conditions for long-term success. Happy trading!



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