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UK DIT report highlights potential for digital growth in Africa through affordable mobile access

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A report from the United Kingdom’s Department for International Trade (DIT) highlights the potential of mobile and digital services to grow African economies and deliver an improved quality of life across the continent.

In the ‘The rise of Africa’s digital economy – tackling the ‘usage gap’ to create a thriving market for mobile services’ report, which is launched at MWC Africa in Kigali, Rwanda, the Department highlights the opportunities that exist if businesses and government’s work collaboratively to improve access and usage to mobile channels.

Economic growth can be secured by increasing access digital-first services of all types, including health, education and even entertainment content. According to a report from Juniper Research, e-commerce transactions hit USD 4.9 trillion in 2021. This was boosted in part by the COVID-19 pandemic which forced people to stay home and brought a renewed focus on digital interactions. That number is expected to rise to USD 7.5 trillion by 2026. In Africa, a Google and IFC report estimates that internet businesses could add an extra USD 180 billion to the continent’s GDP by 2025.

While Africa is primarily a mobile-first continent, access to the internet in remote locations is not assured, with adopting remaining a challenge. According to the DIT report, other factors that need to be resolved include affordability – the cost of data and smartphones, digital education and the lack of targeted local content for users.

Currently, the United Kingdom is working with the mobile telecom- munications industry to improve coverage, affordability and accessibility. The GSMA Innovation Fund for Mobile Internet Adoption and Digital Inclusion, initiated in partnership with GSMA and the Mobile 4 Development

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foundation, is helping to facilitate mobile internet adoption for 3.4 billion people around the world. It is also supporting start-ups to develop and deliver innovative mobile services for users in Africa and Asia.

DIT believes that increasing access, adoption and affordability for users can deliver social and economic benefits for all. This will be felt in improved access to education and health services, as well as local, regional and international trade that can deliver job creation and ultimately, prosperity millions of people in Africa.

The Department is committed to working with stakeholders and leveraging its experience to bridge the digital divide and so grow a more prosperous continent.

The report also gathers the views on innovation and the opportunities that exist from leading African industry thought leaders, including:

· Dr Mike Short CBE, Chief Scientific Adviser, UK Department for International Trade (DIT)

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  • ·  Sitoyo Lopokoiyit, Managing Director, M-PESA Africa
  • ·  Shameel Joosub, Group CEO, Vodacom
  • ·  Dr Nick Hughes OBE, Co-founder and MD, 4R Digital Ltd
  • ·  Melle Tiel Groenestege,Director of Digital Inclusion Policy & Advocacy, GSMA

· Adia Sowho, Chief Marketing Officer for Marketing & Strategy, MTN Nigeria

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People & Lifestyle

Ghana Welcomes Starlink: Revolutionizing Connectivity

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The National Communications Authority (NCA) in Ghana has recently approved the satellite broadband application of Starlink, a service by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, making Ghana the eighth African country to welcome this revolutionary internet service.

This development is set to challenge existing internet providers in the region, offering multi-gigabit speeds and lower latency through satellite technology.

Users have expressed satisfaction with Starlink’s service, citing significant improvements in speed and reliability compared to traditional providers. The service is currently available in seven African countries: Mozambique, Eswatini, Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigeria.

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This expansion is expected to foster healthy competition and better offers, breaking the monopoly enjoyed by some internet providers. As Starlink continues to expand, it promises to revolutionize network access and connectivity in Africa, providing a much-needed boost to internet access across the continent.

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People & Lifestyle

#AOTY2023: King Promise vs. Stonebwoy

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stonebwoy king promise and kelvynbwoy

The debate over King Promise’s candidacy for Artist of the Year has sparked a lively discussion among social media users, with arguments both for and against his potential win.

Supporters highlight his sold-out shows in Asia and the impact of his music, while critics point to other artists like Stonebwoy and Black Sherif, questioning the fairness of the awards process.

The discussion showcases the diverse opinions and passion surrounding the music industry in Ghana and beyond, with users engaging in playful banter and humorous remarks while presenting their arguments.

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‘Dubai in Accra’ set to thrill Ghanaians on Sunday, April 28

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In the heart of Accra, excitement buzzes as the city eagerly anticipates the grand spectacle known as “Dubai in Accra,” set to take place this Sunday 28th April 2024 at the prestigious Stanbic Heights, Icon House Airport. (more…)

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Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s Reign

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Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's Reign

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as the Asantehene, the King of the Ashanti Kingdom.

The celebrations, which began with spectacular fireworks witnessed by Otumfuo himself, will culminate in the Silver Jubilee anniversary on Akwasidaekese on June 12 at Dwabrem, Manhyia Palace.

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This milestone is a testament to Otumfuo’s impactful leadership, dedication to the Asante people, and contributions to education and research as the Chancellor of KNUST.

The event is being celebrated across Ghana, with well-wishes and congratulations pouring in from various quarters, highlighting the significance of this occasion for Asanteman and Ghana as a whole.

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Mr. Beast in Ghana: Surprising Visit Sparks Excitement

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Mr. Beast

World-renowned YouTuber Mr. Beast, known for his philanthropic acts, has been spotted in Ghana, specifically in Accra and Tema, sparking excitement among locals.

His visit has led to discussions about his choice of Ghana over other African countries, with some suggesting that the country’s popularity as a tourist destination played a role.

Mr. Beast’s presence in Ghana is part of his global outreach, as he recently gifted a Ghanaian $25,000 as part of his X (Twitter) giveaway.

Read Also: Producers of 'Beast of No Nation' return to filming in Ghana, causing upset in parliament

The YouTuber has been seen exploring the country and interacting with locals, with many expressing their desire to meet him and participate in his charitable endeavors.

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Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan in MP race for Ayawaso West Wuogon

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Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is set to enter the political fray by rubbing shoulders with notable personalities in the upcoming general elections.

The former Juventus midfielder is believed to be lacing his boots to face the likes of John Dumelo and the incumbent member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Lydia Alhassan.

While Dumelo and Alhassan represents the NDC and NPP respectively, Appiah is expected feature in the elections as an independent candidate.

This was revealed by the Spokesperson of the Ayew family Fiifi Tackie via X on Friday afternoon.

“Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote.

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If Stephen Appiah affirms the reported news, he will be following in the footsteps of other renowned figures in Ghana football who have indulged in politics recently.

Earlier this year, all-time top scorer of the Black Stars Asamoah Gyan was appointed as the sub-committee chair of Youth and Sports in the campaign committee of Dr Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party.

In acceptance of the appointment, Gyan emphasised the need to share hos ideas garnered through experience in the game.

Anas took $100,000 to stop documentary release – Kwesi Nyantakyi
‘I have enough experience to contribute to sports – Asamoah Gyan reacts to political appointment
“I always ask myself, how do we create change if we don’t want to change? How do we spectate without being on the bench, and how do we score without being on the field?… All I know and will ever know, all I love and will ever love is SPORTS.” he stated.

Another figure in Ghana football who recently announced his intention to engage in partisan politics is Kwesi Nyantakyi, former Ghana Football Association (GFA).

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The former football administrator showed up as one of the candidates to contest in the NPP primaries for the Ejisu constituency following the demise of incumbent John Kumah.

However, it didn’t pan out well for the former Wa All Stars owner as he lost disappointingly.

He garnered a paltry 35 votes after close to 1,081 delegates had cast their votes in the parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held in the Ejisu Constituency on April 13.

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