NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
GetBundi announces 0,000 tech scholarship for African women
General News

GetBundi announces $250,000 tech scholarship for African women

116 total views today

 

By Olawunmi Ashafa

The GetBundi Education Foundation has introduced a digital skills programme that offers a 250,000 dollars scholarship fund for women.

The programme, tagged,  “TechSis 2025”, is expected to train 1,500 African women in Data Analytics and Cybersecurity – completely free of charge.

A statement by Mr Osita Oparaugo, Founder of Getbundi, a digital education platform, indicated that TechSis, currently in its third edition, is designed to empower young African women with the digital competencies needed to thrive in the global tech industry.

He said that application forms were available and urged upcoming women to apply for an opportunity to participate in the programme.

“The fully virtual, intensive four-month training programme is open to women of African descent between the ages of 19 and 40, regardless of location, who are committed to transitioning into the tech sector.

“Building on the success and insights from TechSis 2023 and 2024, we are scaling our efforts to meet the growing demand for digital inclusion,” Oparaugo said.

He said that the goal was to equip African women with the digital skills they need to drive innovation and economic empowerment across the continent.

“The TechSis initiative was launched in 2023 as a bold response to the digital gender divide in Africa.

“In its inaugural year, 500 women were trained in coding. By 2024, the programme scaled up to train 1,000 women in web development and data analytics.

“With TechSis 2025, GetBundi aims to deliver high-impact, future-proof training to 1,500 more women, targeting two of the most in-demand digital fields globally.

“Digital exclusion disproportionately affects women across Africa; through TechSis, we are not only offering skills, but creating pathways for women to enter and lead in tech, shape innovation, and contribute to a more inclusive digital economy,” he said.

He explained that courses offered – Data Analytics and Cybersecurity – would run fully online via live classes, self-paced modules, hands-on projects, examinations and certification.

Urging applicants to visit www.getbundi.com, he explained that TechSis initiative is part of the GetBundi Education Foundation’s broader mission to provide accessible, high-quality STEM digital skills training to African learners.

“As the Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) arm of GetBundi Education Technology, the foundation is dedicated to promoting equity, inclusion and opportunity through technology education,” he said.

The innovative edtech platform offers STEM education to post-primary school students, digital literacy training, and digital skills development to adult learners across Africa. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

China, Africa to collaborate against stereotypes in relations
Foreign

China, Africa to collaborate against stereotypes in relations

182 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

CHINADAILY has reaffirmed commitment to promote a more positive and accurate portrayal of Africa-China relations to combat negative stereotypes that have suffused international discourse.

The media organisation stated this during a courtesy visit to by delegates incorporating Think tank and Media agencies representatives from various African countries and International Department Central Committee of Communist Party of China (IDCPC) in Beijing.

Mr Sun Shangwu, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of China Daily, emphasised the importance of addressing misconceptions surrounding the connections between Africa and China.

Highlighting the need for a balanced narrative that showcases the mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations, Sun said, “It is essential to highlight shared achievements and prospects to dispel baseless stereotypes that hinder our partnership.”

He also noted that China Daily has regional offices in Africa and would collaborate with African news agencies to produce content such as articles, interviews, and multimedia projects that highlight the positive impacts of cooperation between China and African nations.

These projects would cover various areas like joint technological ventures, infrastructure development, trade partnerships, and cultural exchanges to demonstrate the depth of engagement between the two regions.

“We believe that this approach will amplify African voices and perspectives in discussions about the relationship and include authentic narratives from Africa to avoid misrepresentation,” he said.

Ms Sarafina Christopher, a delegate and media representative from the News Agency of Nigeria, welcomed China Daily’s commitment to promoting positive narratives amidst increased global scrutiny of Africa-China relations.

She also acknowledged that critiques often paint the relationship as exploitative, disregarding the substantial contributions made by both parties to each other’s advancement.

“We believe that by showcasing uplifting stories, China Daily will challenge these misrepresentations and offer a comprehensive perspective on the partnership.

“An accurate portrayal can enhance understanding and bolster ties between the people of both regions,” she said.

Christopher also reiterated African Media’s dedication to advocating the positive aspects of Africa-China collaboration to shape new narratives centered on mutual growth and benefits.

“This publication aspires to inspire narratives that underline partnership and mutual benefits by highlighting the positive aspects of Africa-China collaboration.

“We believe that this joint initiative between China Daily and African media is not just responsible journalism but also highlights the importance of fostering an effective approach to international relations,” she said.

NAN reports that Chen Zhiming, Song Ping, Yang Fang, Li Changxiang, and Shao Xinying of CHINADAILY also gave significant contribution to the advancement of Africa-China relations through their respective roles and efforts.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Woof Studios host Africa’s Creators at 2025 Cannes
Entertainment

Woof Studios host Africa’s Creators at 2025 Cannes

209 total views today

By Nana Musa

The Woof Studios Africa, a leading Creator Service Provider (CSP), says it will host a featured session at the prestigious LIONS Creators Forum during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2025.

 

Adetutu Laditan, marketing expert and creative director at Woof Studios, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

She said that with the titled “Cracking the Code with Africa’s Creators,” the session would hold on June 17 at the Creators Rooftop on the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes.

 

This marks the first time an African-led creator delegation will speak at the Lions Creators Forum.

 

She added that this historic moment signals a new chapter in the inclusion of diverse, global perspectives in the creator economy.

 

‘’With its booming digital infrastructure, rich storytelling traditions, and a growing population of tech-savvy youth, Africa represents one of the most exciting and underleveraged frontiers in the creator economy.

 

‘’This panel will explore how African creators are not only shaping narratives on the continent but also influencing global trends in marketing, content creation, and brand engagement.

 

Laditan said that the panellists would dive into key themes, including how global brands can collaborate with African creators in culturally intelligent, purpose-driven ways, and African creators in advancing social impact and sustainability.

 

She said they would also explore how to harness Africa’s creative energy to build globally resonant, locally authentic campaigns on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

 

The African delegation will include Ifeyinwa Mogekwu- Nigerian food entrepreneur and Cent Twinz- South African twin influencers with a pan-African footprint.

 

Others are Israel Apeti- Ghanaian visual artist and digital creator and Mpoomy Ledwaba- South African entrepreneur and motivational storyteller.

 

“This panel is not just a win for Africa; it is a wake-up call for the global industry. We’re not asking for a seat at the table, we’re bringing our table, with stories, insights, and cultural depth that the world needs.

 

‘’If brands want to future-proof their strategies, they must understand and collaborate with creators from the world’s youngest and most dynamic continent,” Laditan said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

China pledges deeper ties with Africa
Foreign

China pledges deeper ties with Africa

222 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The Chinese Counselor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Shen Sha, has reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the longstanding ties between Africa and China.

 

Shen gave the assurance at the ongoing African Think Tank and Media Workshop organised by the International Department of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee in Beijing.

 

According to him, the historical connection between China and Africa spans more than eight decades.

 

”China’s engagement with Africa dates back to the eight century when Chinese explorers embarked on historic voyages to the continent, laying the groundwork for enduring cultural and trade relationships.”

 

Shen noted that China values unity and collaboration with African nations as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

 

He added that the country remained steadfast in its support for Africa’s development aspirations.

 

”We embrace the principles of a strong and harmonious East Africa and are dedicated to aligning Chinese interests with those of the African people.

 

”China’s growth and the international stature may evolve, but our commitment to fostering partnerships with Africa remains resolute,” he said.

 

The counselor also said that China stands ready to champion African countries’ rights on the global stage, advocating for fair and inclusive international policies that safeguard the interests of developing nations.

 

He further pledged China continued backing for Africa’s self-reliant initiatives, supporting peace-building efforts, and facilitating inclusive governance practices tailored to African contexts.

 

”We envision a future where China and Africa advance hand in hand, sharing developmental opportunities and mutual prosperity.

 

”China’s enduring support for Africa’s advancement is unwavering, and we stand ready to provide assistance within our means,” he said.

 

Shen also highlighted the exponential growth in trade and investment between China and Africa, underscoring China’s role as Africa’s largest trading partner for the 16th consecutive year.

 

”Notably, Chinese investments have spurred economic growth and jobs creation across Africa, underlining President Xi Jinping’s personal commitment to nurturing China-Africa relations.

 

”China’s promise of continued engagement extends to expanding investment cooperation, enhancing agricultural and manufacturing partnerships, and empowering African nations to harness their resources for sustainable development,” he said.

 

Ms Lindiwe Zulu, Head of the African delegation and member of South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC), expressed appreciation to China for its steadfast support of Africa’s progress.

 

Zulu emphasised the importance of equitable partnerships and African unity as the keys to prosperity.

 

She expressed optimism that China would uphold Africa as an equal and esteemed partner, paving the way for shared success and enduring friendship.

 

NAN reports that the delegation comprises 20 Think tank and Media agencies representatives from various African countries including Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Cecilia Odey/Deborah Coker

Russia remains reliable partner contributing to Africa’s sovereignty – Lavrov
Foreign

Russia remains reliable partner contributing to Africa’s sovereignty – Lavrov

194 total views today

 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that Russia remains a reliable partner to Africa and will continue to contribute to the continent’s sovereignty.

The Russian Foreign Minister said this at a reception held in Moscow on the occasion of Africa Day, as published by the official website of the Russian Foreign Ministry, partners of TV BRICS.

The event was attended by Lavrov and the Ambassador of the Republic of Cameroon to the Russian Federation, Mahamat Paba Sale.

“Russia remains a reliable partner contributing to Africa’s sovereignty,” the Russian minister said.

Lavrov also underscored the importance of Africa in international politics and the historical process.

“Our country is invariably in favour of expanding traditionally friendly relations with African partners,” he added.

He emphasised Russia’s support for strengthening education and economic development of African countries.

Responding, Sale noted the “special importance” of Russian-African relations.

“Russia has played a key role in the process of independence of African countries, supporting the aspiration for progress of their peoples,” the Cameroonian diplomat said.

According to him, Russian universities train qualified personnel who are in demand in Africa, while the expansion of trade ties brings tangible benefits to local economies.

Sale expressed confidence that the partnership between Russia and Africa will only get stronger.

He expressed gratitude to the Russian side for the attention and support it is giving to Africa. (TV BRICS/NAN) 

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

CBAAC reaffirms Nigeria’s leadership in cultural diplomacy, prepares for FESTAC @50
Culture & Tourism

CBAAC reaffirms Nigeria’s leadership in cultural diplomacy, prepares for FESTAC @50

284 total views today

By Naomi Sharang

Director-General of Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), Aisha Augie, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s leading position in cultural diplomacy on the African continent.

This, she said, was even as the country geared up for the golden jubilee of one of its most historic cultural events—FESTAC.

Augie, while speaking with newsmen in Abuja on Thursday after a closed-door session with the Senate Committee on Culture and Tourism, emphasised Nigeria’s enduring legacy in promoting African culture globally.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Senate Committee on Culture and Tourism is chaired by Sen. Ogoshi Onawo (PDP-Nasarawa).

Augie described Nigeria’s cultural impact as ‘unmatched’, citing the FESTAC ’77 as a landmark event that placed the country at the centre of Africa’s cultural revival.

According to her, the FESTAC at 50, slated for 2027, offers another opportunity to showcase the richness of African heritage.

The director-general, who stated that FESTAC ’77 laid the foundation for cultural unity and cooperation across the continent, said that preparations for the anniversary were already underway.

“As we approach 50 years since that historic gathering, we must build on the legacy,” she said.

Augie also noted the significant infrastructure and policy milestones that accompanied the festival, many of which, she said, had continued to serve as cultural landmarks in Nigeria.

“From the National Theatre in Lagos to FESTAC Town, the legacy of that moment endures,” she added.

The director-general said that the committee acknowledged the importance of adequately funding cultural institutions in order to harness Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

“The senate assured us that cultural bodies like CBAAC will receive the budgetary backing needed to carry out their mandates,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

U.S. shifting to ‘investment-led’ strategy in Africa- Senior official
Foreign

U.S. shifting to ‘investment-led’ strategy in Africa- Senior official

191 total views today

U.S. trade with Africa ‘will be much more focused around a reciprocal relationship, one that addresses the needs on both sides,’ says ambassador Troy Fitrell.

Ambassador Troy Fitrell, senior official at the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, said that Washington is “very directly, very intentionally” shifting toward an “investment-led” strategy in Africa.

“The future of the U.S. trade with Africa “will be much more focused around a reciprocal relationship, one that addresses the needs on both sides,” Fitrell said at an online news conference.

He said trade reflects an “exchange between equals” in an activity, unlike the assistance-led paradigm that the U.S. had in the past, which involved “a donor and a recipient, instead of having it being negotiated with equals.”

Fitrell said he tasked ambassadors to “go out and find” commercial opportunities to advocate for US companies, identify opportunities, push for market reforms to enhance the business environment and engage host governments on those issues.

He said as the U.S’ African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) marches to its end date, “it is our Congress who has the responsibility to revise, renew, or re-establish it.”

The envoy added that “if there’s going to be a renewal of AGOA, it will probably reflect the modern world rather than the one from 25 years ago when it was first founded.”

AGOA is a special law enacted in the year 2000 that grants duty-free access to nearly 40 sub-Saharan African nations to US markets.(AA/NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Mark Longyen)

Business council celebrates Africa’s business, visionary writers
General News

Business council celebrates Africa’s business, visionary writers

210 total views today

The Business Council for Africa (BCA), in collaboration with BrandComms and African Business, has announced the shortlist for the third edition of the BCA Business Book of the Year Awards.

The annual awards celebrate powerful business narratives that spotlight Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

It honours visionary authors and publishers whose works capture stories of bold entrepreneurship, resilient leadership, and strategic transformation across the continent.

This year’s shortlist reflects the diversity and depth of Africa’s business landscape, with themes ranging from manufacturing and capital market reforms to African economics, infrastructure, and intra-Africa travel.

Other shortlisted include digital transformation through comedy skits, gas as an alternative feedstock for industry, and Africa’s resilient response to COVID-19.

According to Arnold Ekpe, Chairperson of BCA and Chair of the Judging Committee, ‘We have seen research that quantifies the cost of the risk premium we are paying. This is because we are simply not good at telling our stories—especially our business stories.

“Although more business books are being published, the numbers remain modest given the remarkable businesses emerging across the continent.

“Africa is leading in many sectors, from tech to fashion, film, finance, and mining—yet our stories remain largely untold.”

The BCA Board of Directors, which provides strategic direction to the Council, is comprised of visionary leaders with deep expertise in African and global markets:

They include Arnold Ekpe- Chairman: A retired international banker who led major African banks, including Ecobank and UBA.

Clive Carpenter – Deputy Chairman (Executive): An international banker with over 50 years of experience spanning Kenya, Nigeria, the Netherlands, and the UK.

Jeremy Sivyer – Company Secretary: A seasoned commercial lawyer with expertise in global markets, having served as Head of the Commercial Group at Simmons & Simmons and at Russell-Cooke.

Dr Alim Abubakre- Founder & Non-Executive Chair of TEXEM, UK: An educator, strategist, and advocate for leadership development with global teaching experience.

Terhas Berhe – Founder and Managing Director of Brand Communications: A seasoned strategist with over 25 years of experience in brand design and financial marketing.

Dr Knox Chitiyo – Africa Associate Fellow, Chatham House: An expert in African security, diplomacy, and diaspora relations.

Ethel Kuuya – Founder & CEO, Advisory Kulture: A visionary leader with two decades of experience driving organisational transformation across 12 African countries.

Michael Monari – Founder, Longitude Finance: A corporate executive with 30 years of experience in African banking.

The Awards Ceremony is scheduled to hold on July 4, at the Institute of Directors, 116 Pall Mall, London, United Kingdom.

The winner will receive a trophy and 10,000 dollars, while the second and third-place winners will receive 5,000 dollars and 2,500 dollars, respectively.

Last year’s winners included “How Africa Trades by Professor David Luke; Africa is Not a Country by Dipo Faloyin and Ethiopian Airlines: The African Aviation Powerhouse by Jozef Mols

The 2025 Shortlisted Books: “A West African Entrepreneur’s Challenging Path to Financial Freedom” by Ike Onyema Obi and Janine de Nyssche

“Africonomics: A History of Western Ignorance and African Economics” by Bronwen Everill

“Essentials of Leadership in Africa” by Bella L. Galperin and Caren B. Scheepers

“In Her Hands: Shaping the Future of Manufacturing in Africa” by Demi Samande

“Africa’s Global Infrastructures” by Jana Honke, Eric Cezne, Yifan Yang

“How Nigeria’s Comedy Skit-Makers Are Redefining Africa’s Digital Content Landscape” by Bell Ihua, Ph.D.

“The Traveller: Crossing Borders and Connecting Africa” by Thebe Ikalafeng

“All Hands on Deck for Capital Markets Reform” by Arunma Oteh

“Riding the Storm: The Untold Story of Africa’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic” by Toni Kan.

“The Rise of Gas” by Engineer Charles A. Osezua

For more information on the Awards Ceremony, visit: https://bcafrica.org/book-awards/. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

African countries showing strong interest in Iranian petrochemical exports – Official
Foreign

African countries showing strong interest in Iranian petrochemical exports – Official

258 total views today

Iran’s annual petrochemical output has now surpassed 100 million tonnes, with projections indicating an expected rise to 131 million tonnes by 2029, according to an official.

The official who announced this at the third Iran-Africa cooperation conference, said the rise is expected to be supported by 67 new projects currently ongoing.

The official added that around 70 per cent of Iran’s petrochemical products are exported, a situation that has a significant potential to expand trade relations with African nations.

According to him, key areas of collaboration could include supplying petrochemical feedstocks as well as exporting urea and methanol, which are in high demand in Africa.

With 73 active petrochemical complexes and three dedicated power plants, Iran’s current nominal production capacity stands at 97 million tonnes.

An investment of 26 billion dollars in upcoming projects is expected to boost output to the projected 131 million tonnes annually within the next five years, as reported by Pars Today, a partner of TV BRICS.

In the past year, Iran’s petrochemical exports generated substantial revenue, including 2.8 billion dollars from polymers, 2.2 billion dollars from methanol, and 1.7 billion dollars from urea.

The official also expressed readiness to strengthen business and trade partnerships with African countries, emphasising mutual economic benefits. (TV BRICS/NAN) 

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Nigeria’s energy transition should lead Africa’s climate future  – APRI boss
Environment

Nigeria’s energy transition should lead Africa’s climate future  – APRI boss

248 total views today

By Angela Atabo

Dr Olumide Abimbola, Founder, Africa Policy Research Institute (APRI), on Monday said Nigeria should lead the charge for Africa’s climate future through an equitable, homegrown and economically sound energy transition.

Abimbola stated this ahead of a workshop organised by APR in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat scheduled for Tuesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which is co-hosted by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, will draw stakeholders from across the Global South for peer learning.

“This convening is not just about knowledge-sharing, it is about defining Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa’s climate future and ensuring that our energy transition is equitable, homegrown, and economically sound.

“At the heart of the event is a shared goal to explore how Nigeria can design its own Country Platform for Climate Action (CPCA).

“The CPCA is a coordinated national framework to drive low-emission growth, mobilise climate finance, and ensure a just, inclusive energy transition,” he said.

Abimbola said the insights from the two-day workshop would contribute directly to Nigeria’s forthcoming National Development Plan 2026-2030 and help to mainstream climate priorities across key sectors, including power, transportation, agriculture, industry, and finance.

He said that in the lead-up to the event, APRI had already released a background paper offering practical pathways for Nigeria’s transition.

According to him, the document presents lessons from global case studies, outlining bold, locally relevant strategies for implementing a coordinated, fundable, and inclusive climate framework across policy, infrastructure, and industry.

“The workshop will draw lessons from countries like South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Senegal, which are already implementing Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs),” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

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