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New investments will give Africa the lead in agri development

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JOHANNESBURG, 13 October 2020:  At a time when the rest of the world is re-thinking its approach to commercial agriculture, Africa has a clear opportunity to refresh its approach to the sector and become an emerging force. Big shifts are already happening in food production, land and water use, and the integration of agri-tech and product tracing. If African firms take an early lead during this transition, they will be well placed to compete globally by building enduring assets and commercial advantages beyond primary production.

The financing of new investments in agriculture has always relied on a healthy financial eco-system: active banks, sound insurers and lively futures markets. The next set of gains will come from new platforms that allow small and large firms to connect to each other and to their shared stakeholders. Reciprocal exchange of market data will make smaller, efficient players more visible to large buyers.

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“Without continued advances in agricultural productivity, the whole project of African advancement is at risk,” according to Linda Manda, Sector Head Agribusiness, Corporate and Investment Banking at Standard Bank. “The stakes are high for all of us”, says Ms Manda, “because communities in Africa rely on the agriculture industry for much more than food: employment, investment and infrastructure development are all part of the deal.”  Over half (52%) of all people in Sub-Saharan Africa are employed in agriculture (2019).  

Three recent developments: Higher value incentives

Three recent development milestones suggest that African firms are ready to move beyond low-margin primary production while remaining active in agriculture. According to Sola David-Borha, Chief Executive of Africa regions at Standard Bank, “‘higher-value economic activity is even more likely if finance, technology and trade move deeper into African agriculture. Larger and more open markets, strong supplier networks and technology investments will drive Africa’s growth.”

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Trade data, and Standard Bank’s own long experience of trade finance, shows that Africa has been a net importer of food for almost two decades although the trade deficit has narrowed recently. Despite impressive export growth of certain key products, other food imports continue to rise. The covid-induced disruption to imports are a reminder that regional resilience in food supply is a practical imperative, not an intangible aspiration.

 A larger, more open, internal market in SSA

First, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) should create a much larger internal market that gives producers access to a larger and more open market. Local production can better compete with the current import-and-distribute model. Large-scale production will arise when the returns are not stifled by trade friction. As an African bank, Standard Bank’s role is to put our strong balance sheet to work, lending to the new crop of agri-entrepreneurs.

Multinationals are already active cross-border distributors, but we expect new African producers to be attracted to the intra-African produce-to-trade and value addition opportunity. Africa also needs to be ready for the next disruption in trade. Some global imports will always be required but it would be wise to ensure that key inputs can also be sourced regionally.

Fading distinctions between suppliers

Second, the contrived distinction between the produce of small-holder farmers and very large commercial producers is beginning to fade. The new financial platforms being offered by Standard Bank will confirm the extent which large and small farming operations can complement one another. Out-grower programmes offered by large global firms allow smallholders to establish themselves as suppliers to the biggest and most profitable value chains. Tobacco, sugar and sorghum are all good case studies. Our banking platform is a place where buyers can meet producers, surrounded by market data on inputs, crop prices, volumes, regulations, trade advice and currency movements.

From the top of a tall grain silo, the neat polygons of monocrop plantations appear to be the only advanced outposts of progress. By contrast, small-holder farmland can seem rough and rudimentary remnants of a pre-industrial age. Our own experience is quite different. Smallholder farmers that have access to the right platforms and better yields are also able to compete on quality and cost. Local knowledge of weather, grains, indigenous varieties, insects, and soil has accumulated over many years in Africa and is becoming a treasure of indigenous competence and resourcefulness. The huge expansion of biological patents attests to the large commercial value of small, local insights.  

Adoption of technology and optimisation logistics

The third recent milestone is the broad acceptance across Africa that advances in technology are not peripheral to growth. Grudging acceptance has given way to enthusiastic adoption. Healthy livestock, fertile plantations, productive greenhouses and efficient cold chains all require technology partnerships to keep them productive and profitable. Two decades of smartphone penetration in rural communities has probably eased the transition from guesswork and speculation to data-driven decisions and GPS mapping.

To make the most of this milestone, every hectare of land, every seedling and every bag of fertiliser must be used optimally. On-farm losses and unreliable methods are simply unaffordable during health pandemics and economic recessions. Private investment in telecoms, machinery and pipelines will eventually work alongside publicly funded infrastructure: roads, rail and bulk water supplies. Policy reforms need to support more public-private partnerships that have shown they can build and maintain high-quality infrastructure assets.

Consumer demand for less waste and more conservation will support investments in new systems that supply micro-nutrients to digitally-mapped crops and livestock. Food-insecure communities in Africa can cheer this development as much as time-starved households in wealthy countries: a regular surplus of well-priced food is the best guarantee of the social stability in which economic growth can best be cultivated.

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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The Chronicles of Bishop Paul N. Vincent: Unveiling a spectacular voyage from belief to Empowerment- An Epic Narrative of Endurance and Dedication*

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*The Chronicles of Bishop Paul N. Vincent: Unveiling a spectacular voyage from belief to Empowerment- An Epic Narrative of Endurance and Dedication*

 

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In an exclusive interview conducted by Emmanuel Clement, we embark on an illuminating exploration of the remarkable life and visionary leadership of Bishop Paul N. Vincent.
As the driving force behind Persistence Works TV Network (PWTN) and Vincent Paul Ministries Int’l, Bishop Vincent’s journey from personal transformation to global impact is an inspiring testament to faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment to service.

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*Can we have meet you sir?*

I am Bishop Paul N. Vincent, a leader with a diverse portfolio including roles as President/CEO of Persistence Works TV Network (PWTN), Publisher of Persistence Works Magazine, and head of Vincent Paul Ministries Int’l. Based in El Paso, Texas, my journey encompasses various spheres of influence, from media to ministry, all fueled by a profound commitment to service.

*How did your journey of faith begin, and what prompted your salvation?*
My salvation journey was catalyzed by a family tragedy in 1982, ultimately leading me to embrace Christ in 1985 during a powerful revival service. This transformative encounter set the course for my lifelong commitment to faith and service.

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*Since you gave your life to Christ, have you ever thought of backsliding from the faith?*

No I haven’t. Although many people within my extended family at that time didn’t think I would go all the way. They thought I would soon backslide since I was so young (I was 11 years old when I started attending the church, but was 13 when I made a firm & final decision to give my life and to follow Christ all the way). So they felt by the time the “pleasures of life” begin presenting themselves to me, that I’d backslide. But God’s Faithfulness has proved them all wrong! I’m still here by the Grace of God, still following Christ after almost 40 years now! Praise God!

*Before embarking on ministry, what endeavors did you pursue?*

Prior to diving into full-time ministry, I embarked on a journey of learning and service. From pioneering ministry works in Nigeria to serving as an Army Chaplain in the U.S., my path has been marked by a pursuit of knowledge, leadership, and social impact.

*What is the overarching vision and mandate of your ministry?*

The Vision and mandate of our ministry are:
*To liberate those oppressed by the devil and draw such into the Kingdom Of God by the preaching of the Gospel.
*To Minister healing to the sick: physically, emotionally & spiritually.
*To effectively communicate Christ to our society and the world.
*To preach and teach the word in order to build, develop & mature the Body Of Christ.
*Maximizing the media to propagate the Gospel through: Publications, Television, Social Media, Crusades, Conferences & Charity.

*Have you ever experienced regret as a minister of God?*

Well, we all are constantly growing and learning. The most important thing in life is not that you made mistakes, it’s that you’re able to quickly learn from it, grow and move on beyond it. So yes there were few choices or actions that one might have wished could have been done differently or so, but it’s all part of the learning curves in life. But what I don’t ever regret at any time is: Giving my life to Christ at an early age; answering the Call of God at an early age; getting married to my wife; serving in the US military and other such key choices in life; I don’t regret any of them.

*How do you handle critics?*

If they are constructive criticism, people that want you to do well or better and offer criticism in a way to help you do better and be better: I thank them, accept & evaluate the criticism; If I need to do something different or change something or so, wisdom demands that you do whatever that will help you become a better version of your tomorrow than you were today. But, if they are destructive criticism, people who just want to tear you down and don’t care about you or what you are doing: then I just ignore them, keep doing what am doing. But in some cases, your critics today may become your cheerleaders and fans tomorrow, so I try not to take most criticism so personal. Of course everyone won’t like you, love you or appreciate what you’re doing. So be at peace with that fact of life too!

*Should Christians actively engage in politics?*

Absolutely. Christians have a vital role to play in shaping the political landscape, bringing principles of integrity, justice, and compassion to governance. As stewards of society, our engagement in politics is both a responsibility and an opportunity to effect positive change.

*What’s your perspective on the current political climate?*

The current political climate underscores the urgency of our times, with global upheavals and conflicts signaling the need for steadfast leadership and spiritual discernment. As we navigate these turbulent waters, it’s imperative to uphold values of righteousness and perseverance.

*What do you think is the solution to the ravaging insecurities in the country?*

Bottom Line is that Nigeria needs to be restructured, period! All the issues the nation is facing or dealing with, (more especially insecurity) are only the symptoms, the root cause of Nigeria’s problem is foundational and structural. When you keep forcing strange bed mates to live together and they don’t want to, you’ve set the stage for whatever you get. If you are sick and you go to the hospital, a good doctor won’t just treat your symptoms, they’ll try to get to the root of the problem why you are having those symptoms, which is why they ask you to go do scan, MRI, various tests, etc; so that they can identify the root cause of the sickness and treat it from there, because if you get the root cause taken care of, the symptoms will easily be treated or taken care of. So most of what Nigeria’s political leadership have been doing over the past 63 years plus, since her independence, is treating the symptoms and hoping to cure the sickness. No it doesn’t work that way. To treat the root cause of Nigeria’s problem will require restructuring the country. Again, due to the failed structure, there are people who are benefiting from it the way it is now (even with all the insecurity) that will want things to remain the way they are now, as long as they are benefiting, they don’t care. Which is also part of the problem, people or politicians want what benefits them & not what’s best for everyone.

So when you restructure, then every region can develop at their pace, maximize their full potential, including potential for economic growth and industrialization, solve their problems in the context of what works for them and most of the criminal elements will either change and be engaged in something more productive or will have to face the full weight of the laws. Again even in being able to restructure, it’ll take a leadership that is visionary and selfless. And the question is, does Nigeria have such leaders now, I doubt it! But I pray am proven wrong!

*Where do you envision your ministry in the next 5 years?*

Looking ahead, I envision our ministry expanding its reach and impact across diverse platforms. From a thriving TV network and publication to impactful community initiatives, our goal is to touch lives and transform communities on a global scale.

*What message do you have for those who thought there is no hope from political leaders in the country?*

Actually, is there any hope from political leaders in the country? I doubt it! But in any case, I pray that the political leaders will at least for once, try to prove people wrong by doing the right things & putting policies in place that’ll benefit the people and that’ll move the nation forward. That they’ll serve selflessly and not be about themselves. And I pray that God will one day bless this nation with the right crop of selfless leaders who will be willing to go to any lengths to serve their people and improve their quality of life.

*What has life taught you over the years?*

Life has thought me that: PERSISTENCE WORKS! Whatever you do in life; Don’t Give Up! Don’t throw in the towel because IF you keep Persisting in the face of adversity, danger, failure, set back, criticism or persecution, soon your persistence will work for you, because I am a proof that PERSISTENCE WORKS!

Another thing that life taught me was when I completely went blind in my left eye for almost a year due to cataract. But I eventually had surgery to remove the cataract and regained my sight. That experience taught me how priceless being able to SEE could be. And I thought within myself, that had it been I didn’t have the means or finances to do the eye surgery, I would have remained completely blind in that eye. So that birthed a new project: Cataract Medical Mission, as part of our Persistence Works Charity Project. So now we help people who have cataract or now blind and don’t have the means to pay for the surgery, we help them to pay for cataract surgery or even for glaucoma surgery. And we’ve helped a couple of people so far and hope to do it on a more larger scale soon. So giving back when God has blessed you or shown you mercy is one thing life and God’s Word has taught me.

*“Bishop Paul N. Vincent’s journey exemplifies the power of faith, resilience, and visionary leadership. His unwavering dedication to service continues to inspire and uplift countless individuals worldwide.”*

 

The Chronicles of Bishop Paul N. Vincent: Unveiling a spectacular voyage from belief to Empowerment- An Epic Narrative of Endurance and Dedication*

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Boxing Competition: Unboxx Sports Partners Elite Solar And Inverter

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Boxing Competition: Unboxx Sports Partners Elite Solar And Inverter

Boxing Competition: Unboxx Sports Partners Elite Solar And Inverter

 

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Lagos, Nigeria (8th May 2024) – UNBOXX SPORTS and ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER, one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing green energy company, are delighted to announce a new major partnership.

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Boxing Competition: Unboxx Sports Partners Elite Solar And Inverter

 

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UNBOXX SPORTS exists to bring a new experience to the sports arena – for brands, athletes and sports fans alike.

UNBOXX SPORTS unique level of service emulates our clients’ discipline, passion, and determination–a formidable synergy. Our hands-on approach provides each client with strategic, analytical and honest advice. We aim to develop life-long relationships, whereby our clients can always count on UNBOXX SPORTS to be their partner, confidant and friend.

Elite Solar & Inverter Limited, is a Nigerian company dedicated to providing renewable energy solutions. Although the company was officially incorporated in 2023, Elite Solar & Inverter Limited has been operating since 2019, indicating several years of experience and presence in the renewable energy sector.

From humble beginnings in a small garage, ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD., dedication to providing accessible, reliable solar energy solutions soon propelled us to become a leading force in the renewable energy industry, empowering homes and businesses nationwide to embrace the power of the sun.

The partnership will see ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD. branding positioned across all UNBOXX SPORTS pre-promotional activity in the lead-up to its forthcoming events, including press conferences, open workouts and weigh-ins. Extensive in-arena exposure on fight night will include ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD. branding on the ring canvas, toblerones, ropes, and branding on Event Led Screen; and mentions by the ring announcer during each live event.

ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD. banners will be positioned across press conferences and in fighter changing rooms at the event venue – with exciting experiential brand activations to be announced soon, along with a host of unique social and digital content campaigns featuring key UNBOXX SPORTS talent. UNBOXX SPORTS event CHAOS IN LAGOS will be streamed LIVE on youtube. The partnership will commence with UNBOXX SPORTS next event at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

UNBOXX SPORTS founder and CEO Ben Otunola said: “We’re delighted to welcome ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD. as UNBOXX SPORTS GOLD PARTNER. They are an indigenous national brand and their exciting growth trajectory since 2013 speaks to our own aggressive growth in recent years, and our ambitions in the sport. ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD. existing footprint in renewable energy, innovative marketing strategy and emphasis on sustainability, made the alignment clear for all to see from our very first conversations, and we’re looking forward to kicking things off with a huge night in Surulere.”

Commenting on the partnership, Ms. Adetola Afonja D. One of the Marketing Executives at ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD., said: “The partnership between UNBOXX SPORTS and ourselves comes at a fantastic time for ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD., as we begin to broaden our horizons further and expand our customer base through the pay small small package. UNBOXX SPORTS mission and values align so perfectly with our own, so this partnership feels like a really natural fit, and we’re excited to work closely with them as we expand the reach of our products much further afield.”

To find out more about ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD. and their full range of products, and services visit https://www.goelite.com.ng/ you can also visit ELITE SOLAR AND INVERTER LTD’s office at
3, Sola Omole Street, Langbasa, Ajah, Lagos.

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Primate Ayodele Becomes The Most-Sought After Prophet In Togo* By Serge Ayao, Lome

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Primate Ayodele Becomes The Most-Sought After Prophet In Togo* By Serge Ayao, Lome

*Primate Ayodele Becomes The Most-Sought After Prophet In Togo*

By Serge Ayao, Lome

 

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The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Pastor Elijah Ayodele has touched several nations with his dynamic and unique prophetic ministry and it appears Togo is the latest country to experience the heavy wave of the prophet’s ministry.

 

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Primate Ayodele Becomes The Most-Sought After Prophet In Togo*
By Serge Ayao, Lome

The Nigerian-born cleric has suddenly become a household name in Togo due to his remarkable prophecy regarding the country’s parliamentary election which took place last week. There are reports that Primate Ayodele’s prophecy videos and statements concerning the election have become ‘ringing tone’ for people who are yet to recover from the accuracy of his prophecy.

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Primate Ayodele, known for always prophesying ahead of time, had revealed the outcome of the parliamentary election months before it was held. The election was presumed by many to be tough due to the presence of opposition but Primate Ayodele in his prophecy categorically stated that the ruling party will still get more parliamentary seats.

At the release of his 2024 prophecies in December 2023, Primate Ayodele revealed that every plan to remove the president of the country will be aborted. He made it known that the incumbent president will still return to his position after the election.

These were his words

‘’TOGO: I foresee there will be an election in Togo even as people will not be satisfied with the performances of the government. The country will be troubleshooting on how to revamp the economy. There will be total confusion in Togo before, during and after the election. The country will not find things so easy. I foresee that all the plans designed to remove the president will be aborted.’’

In another prophecy he shared a few hours to the election, Primate Ayodele asserted that the ruling party will get more seats in the election because the opposition parties failed to form a coalition as he earlier advised.

These were his words

‘’The union of forces and other parties should have come together for this election but as it stands, Union for the Republic party’’

@primateayodele

#primateayodele #iescworldwide #togo #togolais228🇹🇬 #gnassimgbefaure #fulfillment #election #prophecyfulfilled #capcut

♬ original sound – Primate Ayodele

In fulfillment of this prophecy, the ruling party, Union for the Republic party (UNIR) won 108 of 113 seats in the new assembly, according to provisional results from Monday’s vote.

Under the new constitution approved by lawmakers in April, Gnassingbé will now be able to take a new post as “president of the council of ministers” – a role similar to prime minister that is automatically assumed by the leader of the majority party in parliament.

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