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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-ZW link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72"><div class=WordSection1><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width=916 style='width:687.2pt;border-collapse:collapse'><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:solid #D9D9D9 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:33.35pt;line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US><a href="https://bullszimbabwe.com/"><span lang=EN-ZW style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:windowtext;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=246 height=120 id="Picture_x0020_5" src="cid:image001.png@01DB0901.179B90D0"></span></a></span><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:32.1pt;text-indent:7.5pt;line-height:105%'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#002060'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:32.1pt;text-indent:7.5pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US><a href="http://www.bullszimbabwe.com"><b><span style='font-size:8.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#0070C0;text-decoration:none'>Bullszimbabwe.com </span></b></a></span><b><span lang=EN-US 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lang=EN-US><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoSubtitle style='margin-left:32.1pt;text-indent:7.5pt;line-height:105%'><span class=style30><b><span lang=EN-US style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> </span><span lang=EN-US><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:32.1pt;text-indent:7.5pt;line-height:105%'><span class=style30><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Major International Business Headlines Brief::: 17 September 2024 </span></b></span><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span class=style30><b><span lang=EN-US> <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> </span><span lang=EN-US><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.0pt'><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.0pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:33.35pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US><a href="mailto:info@bulls.co.zw"><span lang=EN-ZW style='color:windowtext;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=804 height=268 id="Picture_x0020_4" src="cid:image002.jpg@01DB0901.179B90D0"></span></a><span class=style30><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.0pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> </span><span lang=EN-US><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:10.05pt'><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US 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style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-left:72.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-18.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l0 level2 lfo1;background:white'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Wingdings;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>ü<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Rwanda Economy Grows By 9.8% in Second Quarter of 2024<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-left:72.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-18.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l0 level2 lfo1;background:white'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Wingdings;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>ü<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Facebook owner bans Russian state media networks<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-left:72.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-18.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l0 level2 lfo1;background:white'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Wingdings;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>ü<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Amazon tells staff to get back to office five days a week<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-left:72.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-18.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l0 level2 lfo1;background:white'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Wingdings;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>ü<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>TikTok says US ban would have ‘staggering’ impact on free speech<o:p></o:p></span></b></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:10.05pt'><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;line-height:115%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US><a href="mailto:info@bulls.co.zw"><span lang=EN-ZW style='color:windowtext;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=804 height=268 id="Picture_x0020_3" src="cid:image003.jpg@01DB0901.179B90D0"></span></a></span><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:10.05pt'><td width=910 colspan=4 rowspan=3 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>South Africa: Stellenbosch Shuts Down Controversial Wilgenhof Residence<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Stellenbosch University (SU) has announced the closure of the controversial Wilgenhof men's hostel in its current form, with plans to replace it with "a reimagined and rejuvenated male residence," according to News24. The university said, "The new residence will build on the positive aspects of Wilgenhof while decisively distancing itself from the unacceptable and secretive practices of the past." The upgrade is scheduled for 2025 to align with the higher education department's standards for student housing at public universities. The residence is expected to reopen in 2026 as a male residence. One of the rooms, Hool 88, was where Wilgenhof's internal disciplinary committee, known as the Nagligte, conducted its disciplinary activity at night, while the other room, "Toe Argief", contained a trove of Nagligte costumes, shoes, and paraphernalia. In its report dated June 10, the panel recommended the permanent closure of Wilgenhof, saying that it is perceived by many, particularly among black staff and students, as a symbol of SU's troubled and racist history rather than as a representation of change and progress.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Babel and Ocean Basket Restaurants Found in Wage Violation<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The joint inspection at Menlyn's upscale Babel Restaurant and Ocean Basket uncovered over R1.3 million in unpaid wages owed to workers, according to IOL. The operation, conducted by the Hawks, Home Affairs, the Department of Labour, and Bargaining Council officials, revealed significant non-compliance by both establishments. Babel Restaurant and Ocean Basket were found in violation of the National Minimum Wage Act. Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth said that Babel Restaurant owed R271,984 to cleaners and R295,547 to waitstaff in underpaid wages. Workers reportedly endured 12- to 15-hour shifts, violating the rest periods mandated by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. At Ocean Basket, the waitstaff were paid only through tips and commissions, without a basic salary, with R813,969 allegedly owed to the employees.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Retail Giant Pulls Hummus Products Off Shelves<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Retail giant Checkers has issued a recall for its 125g and 300g Deli hummus, reports IOL. The company announced that routine quality testing revealed microbiological contamination in three batches of Deli-branded hummus this morning. As a precaution, the affected batches and related products are being recalled. Production at the supplier, which holds an FSSC 22 000 certification for food safety management, has been suspended. Customers who have purchased these products are advised not to consume them but to return them to the nearest Checkers supermarket or OK Foods for a full refund.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>-South African news<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Uganda: Kampala Mushroom Growers Applaud Museveni for Farming Inspiration<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>A section of mushroom growers in Kampala metropolitan area have appealed to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to assist them acquire a collection centre for easy market access and value-addition materials to enable them increase their income base.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Princess Pauline Nassolo , a Senior Presidential Advisor toured different mushroom farmers around Kampala Metropolitan area many of whom were inspired by President Museveni after visiting his demonstration farm in Kawumu, Luwero district.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to Princess Nassolo, mushroom farming, an increasingly popular venture, is offering the urban poor a sustainable and profitable way to improve their economic situation with minimal capital investment.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Abubaker Kiirya of Looks Good Farm located in Bulindo Kira municipality in Wakiso district started his business in 2017 after realising that mushrooms, a versatile and nutritious food source, rich in protein, vitamins and minerals had a huge market yet scarce.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He said mushroom cultivation is uniquely suited to urban environments which do not require large tracts of land or direct sunlight unlike traditional crops.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>They can be grown in small spaces such as basements and garages, making them ideal for urban dwellers with limited space.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"You don't need a very big space. At the backyard of your house, you can start with 200 gardens of mushrooms costing about shs600,000. Use papyrus and poles which are easily accessed. You only need water to irrigate the mushrooms two or three times a day depending on the weather. You don't need chemicals to spray. Mushrooms are purely organic," Kiirya said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He added that if one can construct a sizable structure of about 15 feet and put shelves or strings, it can accommodate over 1000 gardens of mushrooms.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to Kiirya, mushrooms grow quickly with some varieties ready for harvest in as little as four weeks and each of the 200 gardens on average will give you 1.5kgs of fresh mushrooms in its lifetime of three to four months, selling them at a minimum of shs 5,000 a kilogram.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"This can give you about shs 1.5 million for those 3 to 4 months.Because of this rapid turnaround that allows for multiple harvests per year, providing a steady source of income, many urban dwellers have embraced the initiative which now requires collective efforts to ensure quality and easy access to the market."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"We request President Museveni to help us acquire the required machinery like dryers and a collection centre where mushroom farmers can gather their produce in large quantities to access bigger markets."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Livingstone Bossa , a resident of Masajja in Makindye Saabagabo informed Princess Nassolo that he used the shs.1 million acquired from the Parish Development Model to establish a mushroom business which he says is doing well.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>From mushrooms, Bossa also produces organic soap, lotion and charcoal lighters.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"We have seen you support coffee farmers, but you can also support us because mushrooms have a good market in East Africa especially in the DRC," Mr. Arnold Ssekulima, a mushroom grower in Nansana appealed to President Museveni.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Yona Bahimbwomugisha at Kijjabijo in Wakiso learnt about the venture after visiting President Museveni's demonstration farm in Kawumu in 2018.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He says mushrooms need a controlled environment with proper temperature, humidity, and ventilation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Bahimbwomugisha who had Shs 600,000 by then bought 200 gardens of mushrooms which he started with and he's now able to harvest 20kgs of mushrooms per week, fetching shs.100,000 after selling at shs.5000 per kilo.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"I thank President Museveni for the initiative to teach us the youths about mushroom growing. It has worked well and youths like me have greatly benefited and no longer spend our time politicking than it was before," he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Racheal Najjuuko, the CEO Saci Innovations Uganda Limited which deals in Mushroom value addition, says apart from having a collection centre and packaging house, farmers need more training to learn the basics of mushroom cultivation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Enid Kalinte of Bunga in Wakiso says she started with 80 gardens but has now doubled production due to the growing demand for mushrooms.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>She says by investing a small amount of capital, women and housewives who often have limited access to economic opportunities can create themselves a sustainable source of income which can help cover basic needs such as food, education, and healthcare hence breaking the cycle of poverty.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to Princess Nassolo, through coming together, mushroom farmers will have easy market access and improved quality controls for better exports.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>-Nile Post.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Uganda: Kampala Mushroom Growers Applaud Museveni for Farming Inspiration<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>A section of mushroom growers in Kampala metropolitan area have appealed to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to assist them acquire a collection centre for easy market access and value-addition materials to enable them increase their income base.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Princess Pauline Nassolo , a Senior Presidential Advisor toured different mushroom farmers around Kampala Metropolitan area many of whom were inspired by President Museveni after visiting his demonstration farm in Kawumu, Luwero district.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to Princess Nassolo, mushroom farming, an increasingly popular venture, is offering the urban poor a sustainable and profitable way to improve their economic situation with minimal capital investment.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Abubaker Kiirya of Looks Good Farm located in Bulindo Kira municipality in Wakiso district started his business in 2017 after realising that mushrooms, a versatile and nutritious food source, rich in protein, vitamins and minerals had a huge market yet scarce.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He said mushroom cultivation is uniquely suited to urban environments which do not require large tracts of land or direct sunlight unlike traditional crops.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>They can be grown in small spaces such as basements and garages, making them ideal for urban dwellers with limited space.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"You don't need a very big space. At the backyard of your house, you can start with 200 gardens of mushrooms costing about shs600,000. Use papyrus and poles which are easily accessed. You only need water to irrigate the mushrooms two or three times a day depending on the weather. You don't need chemicals to spray. Mushrooms are purely organic," Kiirya said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He added that if one can construct a sizable structure of about 15 feet and put shelves or strings, it can accommodate over 1000 gardens of mushrooms.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to Kiirya, mushrooms grow quickly with some varieties ready for harvest in as little as four weeks and each of the 200 gardens on average will give you 1.5kgs of fresh mushrooms in its lifetime of three to four months, selling them at a minimum of shs 5,000 a kilogram.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"This can give you about shs 1.5 million for those 3 to 4 months.Because of this rapid turnaround that allows for multiple harvests per year, providing a steady source of income, many urban dwellers have embraced the initiative which now requires collective efforts to ensure quality and easy access to the market."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"We request President Museveni to help us acquire the required machinery like dryers and a collection centre where mushroom farmers can gather their produce in large quantities to access bigger markets."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Livingstone Bossa , a resident of Masajja in Makindye Saabagabo informed Princess Nassolo that he used the shs.1 million acquired from the Parish Development Model to establish a mushroom business which he says is doing well.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>From mushrooms, Bossa also produces organic soap, lotion and charcoal lighters.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"We have seen you support coffee farmers, but you can also support us because mushrooms have a good market in East Africa especially in the DRC," Mr. Arnold Ssekulima, a mushroom grower in Nansana appealed to President Museveni.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Yona Bahimbwomugisha at Kijjabijo in Wakiso learnt about the venture after visiting President Museveni's demonstration farm in Kawumu in 2018.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He says mushrooms need a controlled environment with proper temperature, humidity, and ventilation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Bahimbwomugisha who had Shs 600,000 by then bought 200 gardens of mushrooms which he started with and he's now able to harvest 20kgs of mushrooms per week, fetching shs.100,000 after selling at shs.5000 per kilo.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"I thank President Museveni for the initiative to teach us the youths about mushroom growing. It has worked well and youths like me have greatly benefited and no longer spend our time politicking than it was before," he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Racheal Najjuuko, the CEO Saci Innovations Uganda Limited which deals in Mushroom value addition, says apart from having a collection centre and packaging house, farmers need more training to learn the basics of mushroom cultivation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Enid Kalinte of Bunga in Wakiso says she started with 80 gardens but has now doubled production due to the growing demand for mushrooms.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>She says by investing a small amount of capital, women and housewives who often have limited access to economic opportunities can create themselves a sustainable source of income which can help cover basic needs such as food, education, and healthcare hence breaking the cycle of poverty.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to Princess Nassolo, through coming together, mushroom farmers will have easy market access and improved quality controls for better exports.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>-Nile Post.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigeria: Rains Worsen State of Roads Nationwide<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The current rainy season has further worsened Nigeria's severe road infrastructure deficit.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The consequences of the poor road conditions are dire and have far-reaching effects on the nation's economy, social life, and environment.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Kaduna State, the stretch of road between Jere and Katari on the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway epitomises the deteriorating infrastructure crisis.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Despite the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing recently mobilising Julius Berger, the contractor who initially abandoned the project, to resume work, the road remains a major hazard. Motorists often face heavy gridlock, with travel times extending to three or four hours for a two-kilometre stretch, particularly during heavy rains.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The Kaduna State Government has reported numerous fatalities due to accidents on this stretch.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Mark Shima, a driver at Kaduna Command Junction Motor Park, highlighted the urgent need for repairs, lamenting that the road's condition has claimed many lives, especially in the area after Jere.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Sokoto State, the road from Sokoto to Kebbi, though not dualised, is relatively passable. However, the Sokoto-Gusau corridor presents significant challenges. Palliative works undertaken by government agencies have improved some sections, yet many areas remain in poor condition. Notable problematic sections include Tureta, Dange-Shuni, and Talata Mafara. The Dange-Shuni axis is being expanded into a dual carriageway, with concrete pavement starting from the Sokoto end, but progress is slow. Motorist Sani Auwalu recounted frequent vehicle maintenance due to the road's poor state, emphasising that every return journey necessitates checking for loose or missing bolts.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Kano State, the situation is equally dire. The Sabon Titi road, a vital junction linking Ring Road with towns such as Gwarzo Madobi and Dorayi, has become notorious for extortion by local youths who "guide" motorists through deep potholes. Mustapha Niga, a driver living nearby, decried the road's poor state, urging the government to expedite repairs to prevent worsening conditions. Additionally, the road leading from Maiduguri Road junction to Farm Centre Market has been neglected, with a dual carriageway constructed in the middle, yet the overall road remains in disrepair.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Zamfara State faces severe challenges due to the rainy season, especially on federal roads undergoing construction. The Funtua to Gusau (97 km), Gusau to Sokoto (225 km), and Gusau-Magami-Dansadau (105 km) roads are particularly in bad shape. The ongoing construction has exacerbated travel difficulties, with potholes, erosion, and damaged sections making movement tedious.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Malam Abubakar, a motorist from Gusau, lamented the hazardous conditions, describing the roads as dotted with potholes and on the verge of collapse.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Another motorist, Hamisu Magami, reported similar difficulties, particularly on the road from Gusau to Magami and Dansadau, which has worsened during this year's rainy season.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Katsina State's roads, such as the Gida Mutun Daya route to the state capital, are in a deplorable state. Mallam Zuberu Sani, a resident, noted that the road, initially meant to be dualised, was abandoned midway, resulting in a challenging travel experience for motorists.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Borno State, the situation is compounded by the combination of dilapidated roads and flood damage. This has contributed to frequent attacks and abductions by Boko Haram.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Sadiq Haruna, a commercial driver plying the Maiduguri-Damaturu-Biu route, described the Biu to Damaturu section as particularly nightmarish due to frequent stoppages and inadequate road portions.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Borno State chapter, Ahmadu Musa, confirmed that several federal roads in the state, including the Bama-Madagali-Mubi, Mafa-Dikwa-Gamboru Ngala, Dikwa-Monguno-Marte, and Damboa-Chibok-Askira Uba roads, have become death traps requiring urgent intervention.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Niger State, nearly all federal roads are impassable during the rainy season. The Suleja-Minna, Agaie-Baddegi-Bida, Kontagora-Rijau-Zuru, Kontagora-Bangi, Minna-Tegina, Tegina-Bokani-Mokwa, and Tegina-Kalgara-Birni Gwari roads are in particularly poor condition. Mr Samson Alfa noted that the poor state of these roads has significantly increased transportation costs, exacerbated by the combined effects of flooding and erosion. Abdullahi Ndanusa highlighted the difficulty of travelling during the rainy season due to the severe state of the roads.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Kwara State, the Ilorin-Omu-Aran-Egbe-Kabba and Share-Patigi roads pose considerable risks to commuters. Mal. Ganiyu Adigbongbo, chairman of the NURTW Gambari-Ilorin branch, described the harrowing daily experiences faced by transporters. Hon. Abdullahi Bello, a commuter, echoed these concerns and urged both state and federal governments to address the road conditions to ensure public safety.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Imo State, the Owerri-Umuahia road is the primary concern for commuters. Rivers State's East-West Road, which connects all three senatorial districts in the state and the Niger Delta region, has two notably bad sections: the Mbiama stretch in Ahoada-East and the Akpajo-Onne section in Eleme. Both sections are undergoing rehabilitation by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Federal Ministry of Works, but significant challenges remain.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Abia State, roads such as Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene and Aba-Ikot Ekpene have become infamous for their poor condition. Usoro Akpan, a driver for Akwa Ibom Transport Company, described the Abia section of the Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene road as hellish. Similarly, Edna Iloabuchi, a student at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, expressed her dread of travelling the road during rainy weather due to severe flooding and damage.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Cross River State, the Calabar-Itu road, which connects the state capital with Akwa Ibom State and extends north to Ogoja, Ikom, and Benue, is particularly problematic. Motorists often face traffic jams lasting up to three hours due to poor road conditions, with trouble spots in the Eteghe Ntem, Akwaobio Ekem, and Usung Esuk communities. The Ikom-Obudu road also presents difficulties, with problematic sections in the Ikom and Etung local government areas.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Delta State's roads, including the Asaba-Onitsha, Sapele-Benin, Sapele, Eku, Abraka, Obiaruku, Abavo, and Agbor routes, are in a poor state, impacting all local government areas. Notably, roads leading to Osubi, the hometown of Governor Sheriff Oboreveori, have been particularly problematic.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Enugu, the roads connecting Aguata to Awka South are fraught with difficulties. The condition of roads connecting Ekiti State to neighbouring areas, such as Ado-Ijan-Ikare, Ado Ekiti-Igede-Aramoko, Ikole-Omuo-Kabba, and Ado Ekiti-Ikere-Akure, is similarly concerning. Protests by students and workers from Afe Babalola University and Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti have highlighted the need for urgent repairs, especially on the Ado Ekiti-Ijan-Ikare road, which has remained in a deplorable state despite calls for intervention.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>...Lokoja-Benin Road: FG Fails To Meet 6-month Completion Target<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The federal government has failed to meet the September 2024 deadline it earlier set to complete the construction/dualisation of Abuja-Lokoja-Benin road.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The minister of works, Engr. David Umahi, had on 22nd March, 2024, set six months' completion period for the dualisation of the 30km Benin-Lokoja highway whose funding it had approved under the Tax Credit Scheme for the BUA Group.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The minister disclosed this during a meeting with all contractors handling the highway alongside stakeholders from the area.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The approval followed the N775bn funding gap in the construction of the road which was first awarded in 2012.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Umahi had on 26th April, 2024, issued two weeks' ultimatum to contractors handling the project to either deploy in three sections or face termination of contract.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>On 1st July 2024, the minister terminated the contract, citing "inordinate delay" on the part of the contractors.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The Lokoja-Benin project is being executed under the NNPCL Tax Credit Scheme for N122bn. The project, according to the minister, has a funding gap of N775bn to complete.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He explained, "This project was first awarded in 2012 and later the last administration decided to review it. They reviewed it and dualised it. They also reviewed the project to N879bn, but under the NNPCL Tax Credit Scheme, the cost of the property is different from the commitment of NNPCL. NNPCL commitment was just N122bn and so, there is a great problem.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"There is a funding gap of N775bn and I don't see where that money is coming from. So, presently we have over N2.7trn funding that project from NNPCL, whereas NNPCL has a commitment of N2.58trn. We have a funding gap of N2.7trn to complete all NNPCL projects."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>LEADERSHIP reports that the project which was billed to be completed to ease traffic has failed to meet the September deadline set by the Minister.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>When contacted, the special adviser on media to the Minister of Works, Barr. Orji Uchenna Orji, promised to get back to our reporter on Monday afternoon but later asked for more time/ for him to provide update report on the project on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>-Leadership.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigeria: 134 Illegal Oil Refineries Demobilised, 63 Illegal Pipelines Uncovered in One Week - NNPC<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Abuja — As part of Nigeria's fight against oil theft, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has disclosed that 134 illegal refineries were destroyed in seven days.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In its weekly audio-visual on the progress made so far, it noted that 63 illegal pipeline connections were also uncovered during the period, with a joint team of security agents discovering a large wooden boat illegally loading stolen crude oil from barge AGS01 within the OML 18 operating area.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to the national oil company, based on credible intelligence, the large wooden boat was caught receiving crude oil from the barge.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>It explained that while the barge was towed away with a tugboat in custody, five speedboats used in towing the large wooden boat to the illegal loading site were detained.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>It noted that the particulars of the tugboats and barge used for the operation were seized for further investigation, adding that in Rivers state, two barges involved in illegal bunkering activities were also seized and the crewmembers were arrested.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In addition, wooden boats transporting stolen crude oil, the NNPC said, were confiscated in Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa State and Abia States.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Bayelsa and Abia States, it noted that repairs were executed on pipelines while illegal connections were detected and removed, pointing out that it was not just the pipelines that were under the siege of vandals and oil thieves.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to the NNPC, across the swamps and waterways, illegal refineries with toxic sites of crude oil refining were destroyed in states like Rivers, Abia and Bayelsa, describing illegal refineries as shadowy operations that pollute the environment and bleed the economy.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Besides, the NNPC stated that 25 suspects were arrested and handed over to government security agencies for further investigation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>It said: "Between August 31 and September 6, 2024, a total of 302 incidents were identified across various locations in the Niger Delta from several incident sources."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>It listed the sources as Tantita Security Services, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Maton Engineering Company, Heirs Energies Limited, Oando Plc, NNPC Limited's Command and Control Centre and government security agencies.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"There is no backing down on the war on crude oil theft until the menace is eradicated," the state-owned firm said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>-This Day.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigeria: No Respite As NNPC Increases Petrol Pump Price - Dangote<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigerians' hopes of some relief from the cost of living crisis in the country have been dashed as petrol from the newly launched Dangote Refinery is being sold at prices higher than expected, as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) fixed new estimated petrol pump prices across all states.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The NNPC said that after completing the loading of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol, from the Dangote refinery, petrol prices for September 2024 would range from approximately N950 to over N1,000 per litre, depending on the region.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Recall that NNPC stated it paid N898 per litre for the 16.8 million litres of petrol purchased from the Dangote refinery on Sunday, September 15.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>A breakdown of the pricing showed that Borno State will pay N1,019.22 per litre; Sokoto State - N999.22 per litre; Kano State - N999.22 per litre; Kaduna State - N999.22 per litre; Federal Capital Territory (FCT) - N992.22 per litre; Rivers State - N980.22 per litre Oyo State - N960.22 per litre; and Lagos State - N950.22 per litre.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>NNPC explained that the new prices for September are based on figures obtained from the Dangote refinery and not set by the federal government.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>RELATED: NNPCL, Dangote Disagree Over Price Of Petrol<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The company's spokesman, Olufemi Soneye, in a statement on Monday, said these prices are for September 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The NNPC also stressed that the petrol loaded from the Dangote Refinery was priced in dollars as the Naira sale of petrol will commence in October.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Initially, there were hopes that local production would significantly lower fuel costs, thus lowering the cost of transportation, and prices of food items.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to the NNPC, it purchased petrol from the Dangote Refinery at N898 per litre, while distribution costs and regulatory fees contributed to the final retail prices. The company emphasised that these prices are determined by market forces, as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), rather than government regulation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>To this end, other petroleum products marketers are expected to sell higher as they adjust to the new price regime as announced by NNPC.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The executive secretary of the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria(MEMAN), Clement Isong, while reacting to the situation when LEADERSHIP put a call across to him yesterday said, he is not aware of the adjustment but will get the clearer picture and revert to our Correspondent.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The price hike caught many off guard, especially as it came shortly after the refinery's launch. NNPC's pricing reflects a significant increase from previous rates, with petrol prices rising from N568 to N896 per litre on the same day. This has led to calls for transparency regarding the refinery's pricing structure and production costs, with some stakeholders questioning why locally produced petrol is not cheaper than imported alternatives.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The situation has sparked debates about market dynamics and regulatory practices in Nigeria's petroleum sector, with many citizens feeling that the anticipated relief from high fuel prices has not materialised.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Many Nigerians are understandably shocked that petrol being pumped out of the Dangote refinery will not be selling at a relatively affordable price at the pumps, or a little cheaper than the imported variety.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Long conditioned to subsidised products, Nigerians had expected that locally produced petrol would offer a huge relief from the cost-of-living crisis currently in the country.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Hope was heightened when the government announced recently that Dangote will buy Nigerian crude oil in Naira and sell his products within the country in the same currency.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In many social media platforms and talk shows, Nigerians have been busy analysing the refinery's production economics and explaining why we should be buying cheap fuel soon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria expressed concerns over the pricing of petrol from the Dangote Refinery, urging the NNPC to ensure it is not sold at a higher price than imported fuel.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>IPMAN argued that such a disparity would be counterproductive to the nation's drive for energy self-sufficiency and could negatively impact consumers and marketers alike.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to IPMAN on Monday, the pricing strategy for locally refined petrol should reflect the advantages of domestic production, offering Nigerians a more affordable option.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The association emphasised that maintaining competitive pricing is crucial for the success of the Dangote Refinery and for fostering a sustainable fuel market in the country.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>IPMAN national welfare officer John Kekeocha stated this on Channels Television's The Morning Brief breakfast programme on Monday.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"If NNPC can sell Dangote products higher than the imported products then it doesn't make sense. What is the celebration we are having all these while then?" he queried.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>An energy analyst, Etim Etim, while commending NNPCL for these disclosures, noted that these prices are only obtainable for the month of September when NNPC is buying in dollars from the refinery.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"For October, when crude would be sold in Naira, the prices may change, depending on a few variables like the exchange rate and the crude oil price in the international market.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He said that the downstream market is now fully deregulated, and for the first time in our history, subsidy is truly gone.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He urged Nigerians to brace up for a market-determined pricing structure that would be influenced by a few factors: the price of crude oil, the exchange rate, the cost of refining, overheads, borrowing costs, and insurance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"Crude oil price will continue to be a major determinant of petrol price. Even when NNPC sells crude in Naira to Dangote, the pump price would still be determined by the prevailing exchange rate. If the naira continues to slide, petrol prices will increase, even if other factors remain unchanged.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He further said, "This morning, crude oil is selling at about $72, and at the exchange rate of N1,600/dollar, Dangote would be buying a barrel of crude oil at about N115,200. Although there are many other products that are obtained from a barrel of crude oil, petrol will not come cheap because of other inherent costs in the production process.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"Dangote is highly indebted to Nigerian banks, and even before his refinery began production, he was already repaying and servicing his debts.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"He had told the media in July that he had incurred huge interest charges due to failed attempts at land acquisition in Ogun State and delays in construction in Lagos State due to communal issues. The accumulated interest charges and other interest costs will count in the pricing of his gasoline.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Etim noted that Dangote's production costs must also be very high, which will heavily impact the pricing of its products.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"The refinery provides everything for itself, including building three ports within the complex for its use in bringing in heavy equipment and building a huge 400 MW power plant to provide its own electricity. In addition, DR has over 8,000 people on its payroll. During construction, 29,000 Nigerians and 11,000 expatriates worked at the site. The huge wage bill would have to be taken care of by the selling prices of the products."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Etim expressed hope that the refinery's purchase of crude oil in Naira would ameliorate the impact on the exchange rate.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"The only reason petrol will sell cheap is if crude oil goes for as low as $40 per barrel or if the dollar exchanges for N800 or less. Both have significant implications for the economy, of course. But with tension mounting in the Middle East, cheaper crude oil is not likely soon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"I have taken note of the assurance from the Finance Minister, Wale Edun, that petrol prices will fall as the refinery scales up production.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Speaking at the refinery on Sunday, Edun said, "We're expecting that as this refinery, and even others, ramp up production scale, and achieve economies of scale, there should be the opportunity--and there is definitely the potential--to reduce their costs, which should be passed on to consumers".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigerians have taken to social media to express their dismay at the current situation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>One X user queried, "Why would Dangote not sell his petrol cheap or cheaper than imported product when he is not bearing the cost of shipping, LC charges, wharf charges, insurance, and other costs borne by importers?"<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Another person noted on X, "Anything above N766 per litre from Dangote is back to square one".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>One other commentator wrote, "Queuing for fuel is not our problem. If Dangote's fuel is not cheaper than what we have now, then the whole thing is not worth it".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The NNPC began loading the first batch of petrol from the Dangote Refinery on Sunday, saying it got N898 per litre from the private refinery.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Before lifting petrol from the Dangote Refinery on Sunday, NNPC retail outlets in Lagos sold petrol for around N855, but a litre of Dangote petrol now sells for N950 per litre in Lagos and N1,019 in Borno.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>However, Dangote Refinery denied selling petrol to the NNPCL at N898. In a statement late Sunday, a spokesman for the refinery, Anthony Chiejina described the claim by the NNPCL as "misleading and mischievous".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"It should also be noted that we sold the products to NNPCL in dollars with a lot of savings against what they are currently importing. With this action, there will be petrol in every local government area of the country regardless of their remote nature," Chiejina said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>However, the NNPCL insisted that it got petrol from Dangote Refinery at N898 per litre and challenged the latter to release the price at which it sold petrol.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The NNPCL further released a breakdown of pricing it sells Dangote petrol at its filling stations nationwide.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Last December, Dangote, Africa's leading industrialist, commenced operations at his $20bn facility in Lagos with 350,000 daily barrels.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The refinery, initially bogged by regulatory battles, hopes to achieve its full capacity of 650,000 barrels per day by the end of the year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>-Leadership.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Tanzania: Govt Stresses Timely Repair of Roads Damaged By Rains<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>DEPUTY Minister for Works, Engineer Godfrey Kasekenya (pictured), has emphasised the importance of ensuring that the re-construction of roads damaged by previous El-Nino rains reflect value for money and are completed on time.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Eng Kasekenya argued that timely completion of such projects would make members of the public get benefits of the projects in time.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Engineer Kasekenya made statement during his recent tour in Lindi, Mtwara and Coast Regions to inspect the progress of road and bridge construction, especially those affected by the El-Nino rains and Cyclone Hidaya.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He said the government has allocated over 830bn/- to rebuild and upgrade roads and bridges affected by the El-Nino rains and Cyclone Hidaya nationwide.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Kasekenya made these remarks recently, during an inspection of the Nyamwage - Utete (33.7 km) road, which is being constructed at the asphalt level by the contractor M/s China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>ALSO READ: Govt commits to improve rural roads in Lindi<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"I assure you that the President has allocated these funds, our job at the Works Ministry and the TANROADS is to ensure competent contractors are engaged in building this infrastructure affected by the rains," Eng Kasekenya pointed out.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He further stressed the need for precision and speed in the construction of the Mbambe Bridge, which is 81 metres long and connects the towns of Ikwiriri and Mkongo, as well as the Nyamwage - Utete (33.7 km) road to ensure immediate completion to enhance transportation and logistics in Rufiji District.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Additionally, Eng Kasekenya assured the residents of Kilwa in Lindi Region that the Tingi-Kipatimu road will be constructed at the asphalt level and paved in phases, while the construction of bridges on this road expected to begin in early October 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>On his part, the TANROADS Manager for Coast Region, Engineer Baraka Mwambage, said that the construction of that road includes a total of 109 culverts, two of which are completed. Daily News.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigeria: Okonjo-Iweala to Seek Second Term As WTO DG<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to head the World Trade Organization, will seek a second four-year term when her mandate expires next August, her spokesman Ismaila Dieng has said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"We can confirm that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has officially announced her intention to seek a second term as Director-General of the WTO," Dieng added that she had taken into account "the overwhelming and broad-based support expressed by members".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Her current term at the helm of the 166-member WTO ends in August 2025.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Her decision to seek another term was officially communicated to WTO chair Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg on Monday.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The WTO's African Group formally requested that she make herself available for a second term at that same meeting, and proposed that the process to re-nominate her should begin as soon as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>So far no other candidates have come forward.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Okonjo-Iweala, who took over in March 2021, has hinged her leadership on breathing new life into the sclerotic organisation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Fifty-eight of the 164 member states of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) members have in August voiced support for a proposal from the African Group backing incumbent Director General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to serve a second term.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The 58 member countries of the trade association made this known at a July 22 meeting of the WTO General Council, according to a statement by the world trade body.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"The African Group requests that the current Director-General make herself available to serve a second term, and has proposed that the process of reappointing the Director-General should be started as soon as possible," the statement partly read.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"Fifty-eight members, several speaking on behalf of groups of members, took the floor to comment and express their support for the African Group proposal. They called on DG Okonjo-Iweala to make her intentions regarding a second term known as soon as possible. Most of these members praised the DG's hard work and her achievements during her first term.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Okonjo-Iweala, 70, said she was very grateful for the support from members. "Everything that I've accomplished, we've accomplished together," she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>-Vanguard.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Zambia: Electricity in Short Supply As Zambia Deals With Drought-Driven Energy Crisis<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Lusaka, Zambia — As Zambia deals with its worst drought in 20 years, businesses and households are going for days without electricity. Experts say the severe energy crisis could worsen Zambia 's already fragile economy and lead to massive job losses.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>On an average day, millions of people across the country are enduring up to 21 hours of power cuts, locally known as load shedding.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Taonga Zulu, a Lusaka resident who runs a family farm business, told VOA that her livelihood has been hurt by the power cuts.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"It has been nearly impossible to manage the chicken run properly as we rely on electricity for various aspects of their care," she said. "The lack of power has also prevented us from pumping water, which means our farm is slowly turning into a desert."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The Zambia Association of Manufacturers is a business association representing<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>the interests of the country's factories. Association president Ashu Sagar said his members have not been spared by the energy crisis. He said big companies are struggling with the cost of running alternative diesel-powered generators, while smaller companies have no energy source at all.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Sagar added that some of the association's members have failed to meet contractual obligations with buyers due to the drought-induced energy crisis.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"So, the impact on the manufacturing sector is quite big in that small companies that probably could have no capacity to invest in alternative energy solutions like diesel generators have had to curtail their manufacturing operations," he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Zambia's only public power utility company, the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation, or ZESCO, said Monday that it does not have enough power to supply all hospitals.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Media reports say some hospitals are turning patients away due to lack of electricity and water.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>ZESCO spokesperson Matongo Maumbi said the country's heavy reliance on hydropower generation has led to a national shortfall of almost 1,300 megawatts as the various water sources are drying up.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Economist Emmanuel Zulu says the energy crisis is dragging down the economy and pushing up unemployment.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"There is a slump in output and productivity in the economy and this is going to affect our GDP as well as employment because most people will be left with nothing to do," he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Worsened by climate change and the El Nino weather pattern, the energy crisis threatens national food security, water and energy supply, Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema said earlier this year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In his state of the nation address to parliament Friday, Hichilema said his government is working around the clock to address the energy crisis.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"Government is implementing a number of interventions in a bid to enhance resilience and reduce our dependence on hydroelectric power," he said. "We are promoting alternative sources of energy."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Energy expert Johnstone Chikwanda is optimistic that new measures, like the removal of bureaucratic hurdles that discouraged private companies from investing in energy production, will yield results in the near future.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"Looking at the extent of the measures which are currently being implemented and the strong praxis of leadership driving the energy sector reforms, I am convinced that this crisis is being invested better than how we previously handled the previous crisis," he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to the United Nations, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi are among the countries in Southern Africa most affected by the regional drought that began early this year.-OA.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>South Africa: TikTok Exposé Leads to Restaurant Raid <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Authorities have arrested at least three people at the Babel restaurant in Menlyn following revelations by a former employee about alleged unfair and exploitative labour practices at the upscale establishment, according to IOL. The three people arrested reportedly include the restaurant's owner and two undocumented staff members. On Sunday night, a coordinated sting operation by the police, Home Affairs, and the Department of Labour was carried out in response to a woman's TikTok post on Saturday, where she described her troubling experiences at the restaurant. Hired on the spot, the woman was reportedly shocked to find she was asked to begin work without a formal contract, cover the cost of her own uniform, and face the absence of a basic salary. She also said employees were penalized with fines purportedly to cover cutlery and breakage costs. She also revealed that staff were required to purchase their own equipment, such as bottle openers, cigarette lighters, cigar lighters, and cutters, and were only compensated with tips and a daily non-refundable breakage fee of R200.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>KwaZulu-Natal e-Hailing Drivers Protest Unfair Practices<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The KwaZulu-Natal e-Hailing Council's protest against unfair labor practices and pricing is set to begin, potentially affecting passengers and commuters in four key areas of the province, reports IOL. Sifiso Mabika, representing the council, said that this protest is in response to several pressing issues impacting the livelihood and safety of drivers and vehicle owners using these platforms. He also announced that e-hailing apps will be shut down in Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Richards Bay, and Port Shepstone. Mabika explained that the current commission structure is unsustainable, with drivers and vehicle owners losing up to 40-50% on certain trips. Safety concerns have been raised, with drivers calling for app users to register with a valid ID and undergo a facial recognition process to verify their identity. Lastly, Mabika said drivers want the current age limits on vehicles to be removed until the vehicles are fully paid off.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Two Passengers Die in Separate Airport Incidents<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Two passengers lost their lives in separate incidents at OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng and King Shaka International Airport in Durban, reports IOL. The Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) reported that the first incident occurred at 3 pm at OR Tambo, where a person fell from parking Level 5 to the ground floor. ACSA spokesperson Ernest Mulibana said that law enforcement and airport health officials from the 24-hour clinic were immediately notified. Paramedics later arrived at the scene and declared the unidentified traveller deceased. In the second incident, ACSA said an unidentified male passenger collapsed and died at King Shaka International Airport. Mulibana added that the cause of death in both cases remains unknown.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigeria's Health Migration Policy to Address Brain Drain Aims to Boost Local Expertise<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Human mobility has always been an essential aspect of life. Beyond the essential physiological and psychological motivations to move, the constant quest for better living conditions, often drives migration. This has implications for public health policy, highlighting the need to consider trends in health worker migration in the formulation of health strategies and interventions.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In Nigeria, health worker migration, or 'brain drain', has been a persistent issue with many Nigerian healthcare professionals seeking better opportunities in other countries. This has led to a skilled health worker-to-patient ratio of 1:9,000 patients, far below the World Health Organisation (WHO) target, creating uncertainty in the country's ability to attain both Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. 2030.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>While a well-managed migration of health workers can play a key role in development, having a framework to manage healthcare worker migration effectively is critical to minimising the detrimental consequences of health worker migration. These were part of the recommendations from the 2018 Future of Health Conference themed 'The Diaspora as Nigeria's Brain Gain', which emphasised the need for sustained government intervention to enhance the "brain gain" by providing an enabling environment for healthcare workers to thrive.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Recently, President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, took a crucial step towards addressing the country's brain drain by signing the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The policy document, introduced by Professor Muhammed Ali Pate, Nigeria's Minister of Health and Social Welfare, highlights the collective commitment to mitigating the multifaceted challenges posed by health worker migration. He noted in the policy document that "this policy is born out of a collective resolve to address the complex dynamics of health worker migration, ensuring that the exodus of our skilled healthcare professionals does not compromise the health system's integrity and the well-being of our citizens."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>What is the policy is about?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration attempts to manage health workforce migration proactively which includes addressing the underlying issues of shortage of qualified healthcare workers, particularly in rural and neglected areas in Nigeria.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>This strategy presents a comprehensive framework to address these fundamental concerns, with an emphasis on enhancing the quantity and quality of training, recruiting, and international cooperation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>These are the major highlights of the policy:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The policy also focuses on thematic areas in mitigating the negative effects of health workforce migration in the country. These include Health Workers Safety, Capacity Development, Strengthening Health Workforce Education and Training, Health Diplomacy, Ethical Recruitment, and Equality, Research, Innovation, and Strategy including Governance and Leadership.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Where similar policies have been implemented<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>To effectively implement this policy, Nigeria can draw valuable lessons from the successful strategies employed in countries like Thailand, Cuba, and India.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Thailand's strategy to reduce the outflow of healthcare professionals involved providing financial incentives, which improved the economic well-being of healthcare workers. By increasing salaries, offering bonuses, and ensuring timely payments, Thailand made the domestic healthcare sector more conducive, thereby reducing the desire to migrate for better-paid jobs abroad. This approach not only motivated healthcare professionals to stay but also enhanced their commitment to the local health sector.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigeria can implement similar strategies by revising the compensation packages for healthcare workers, ensuring competitive salaries, and establishing clear career pathways that include opportunities for training, promotion, and specialisation within the country.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Cuba's success in producing a surplus of healthcare professionals stems from its strong investment in medical education and training. By establishing a robust network of medical schools and ensuring high standards of education, Cuba has not only met its domestic healthcare needs but also created a pool of professionals who can be deployed internationally. Cuba also has a unique approach in deploying healthcare professionals abroad as part of medical diplomacy efforts. This has not only benefited host countries but also provided economic and diplomatic benefits to Cuba.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Nigeria stands to gain immensely by prioritizing substantial investments in medical education and training, to produce a more skilled healthcare workforce. This effort should include further expanding medical schools, offering scholarships to aspiring healthcare professionals, and maintaining rigorous standards of training.o By embracing this approach, Nigeria can address its healthcare challenges and expand the supply of health workers through increased medical training opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>India's initiative, the Overseas Indian Facilitation Centre (OIFC), is designed to harness the resources, expertise, and abilities of Indians living abroad for the benefit of India's development. By creating platforms for engagement, offering investment opportunities, and facilitating collaborations, India has successfully tapped into the potential of its diaspora.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Healthcare organisations such as the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), Canadian Association of Nigerian Physicians and Dentists(CANPAD), Medical Association of Nigerians Across Great Britain (MANSAG) play a vital role in harnessing the skills, expertise, and resources of the Nigerian diaspora to drive national development, with a focus on transforming the healthcare sector through policy advocacy, mentorship opportunities for young professionals, educational conferences, medical missions, and providing hands-on training. At the heart of this is the creation of an enabling environment by the Government through enabling policies for healthcare.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The future could be bright<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The newly signed National Policy on Health Workforce Migration emphasises increasing incentives for health workers, especially those in rural areas. This is a welcome development as it will enhance healthcare delivery in underserved regions, leading to improved health outcomes and progress towards UHC.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The policy's emphasis on capacity development and diaspora engagement is expected to lead to advancements in medical education, training, and healthcare technology, ultimately benefiting the entire sector.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>However, the policy's success will depend on effective implementation, which requires strong governance, adequate funding, and coordination among various stakeholders, including government agencies, professional bodies, and international partners.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The policy on Health Workforce Migration is a strategic maneuver that aligns with the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) . By addressing the critical issue of healthcare personnel exodus, the policy aligns with the four-points of the agenda. Ultimately, the policy's emphasis on health system governance and leadership, positions it as a cornerstone for building a resilient and sustainable healthcare system, aligning with the fourth pillar of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Strategic Blueprint for the Health sector which seeks to address health security.- Nigeria Health Watch.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Rwanda Economy Grows By 9.8% in Second Quarter of 2024<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Rwanda's economy grew by 9.8 per cent in the second quarter of 2024, mainly driven by the services sector which contributed 47 percent to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), official data shows.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to the latest GDP figures announced on Monday, September 16, by the National Institute of Statistics (NISR) and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, the growth at current market prices was estimated at Rwf4,515 billion, up from Rwf3,972 billion in the same period of second quarter of 2023.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>ALSO READ: Rwanda's economy grew 9.7% in the first quarter of 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Building on the economic performance of 9.7 percent in first quarter and 9.8 percent in second quarter, the statistics body remained cautious in overall annual growth rate at 6.6 percent. Rwanda's economy grew by 8.2 percent in 2023.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Yusuf Murangwa, the Minister of Finance, said that the relatively low economic growth projection factors in uncertainty of global shocks, and it would be revised considering performance over the next two quarters.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"Given all the planning we do and the history of climate shocks, our position is conservative because of some unpredictable aspects of the economy, but from the quarterly growth rate, we are very optimistic," he explained.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>ALSO READ: Economic Growth momentum expected to continue in 2024<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>While Rwanda's services sector remains a key contributor to the country's economic growth, increasing by 10 per cent, agricultural performance also saw an increase of 7 percent, mainly attributed to a strong harvest of season A of 2024 which increased food crop production by 8 percent.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Ivan Murenzi, the Director General of NISR, said that the growth aligns with consumer prices trend over the past months, "with the good harvest of season A, the prices of food crops have substantially gone down and if that [food as a main component of inflation basket] is stable, the general inflation will go down."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Industry also experienced growth of 15 percent, primarily driven by an increase in construction activities, and manufacturing which increased by 18 percent and 17 percent, respectively.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>However, mining and quarrying activities declined by 2 percent during the period under review, with notable reductions in exports of coltan and cassiterite of 8 percent and 9 percent, respectively.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Manufacturing drives industry performance<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>According to the new figures, manufacturing growth was buoyed by 18 percent increase in food processing, 28 percent in textiles, clothing, and leather.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Metal products, machinery, and equipment manufacturing increased by 29 percent while production of chemicals, rubber, and plastic products rose by 20 percent.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Murangwa noted that the positive trajectory across sectors should be maintained and built on to achieve the recently approved second National Strategy of Transformation (NST2).-New Times.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Facebook owner bans Russian state media networks<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Facebook owner Meta says it is banning several Russian state media networks, alleging they use deceptive tactics to carry out influence operations and evade detection on its platforms.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"After careful consideration, we expanded our ongoing enforcement against Russian state media outlets. Rossiya Segodnya, RT and other related entities are now banned from our apps globally for foreign interference activity," Meta said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In a news bulletin, RT newsreader Eunan O'Neill said the broadcaster "and Russia as a whole denies the accusations that have been coming en masse against this channel and others in the past number of days".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The bans are expected to come into effect in the next few days.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The Russian embassy in Washington and the owner of the Sputnik news agency, Rossiya Segodnya, did not immediately respond to BBC requests for comment.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Russian state media outlets have come under increased scrutiny over claims they have tried to influence politics in Western countries.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>As well as Facebook, social media giant Meta owns Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The move marks an escalation in the world's biggest social media firm's stance towards Russian state media companies.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Two years ago, Meta took more limited measures to restrict the spread of Russian state-controlled media, including stopping the outlets from running adverts on its platforms and limiting the reach of their content.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>After the start of the war in Ukraine, Meta - like other social media platforms - complied with requests from the EU, UK and Ukraine to block some Russian state media in those regions.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Earlier this month, the US accused state broadcaster RT of paying a Tennessee firm $10m (£7.6m) to "create and distribute content to US audiences with hidden Russian government messaging".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>An indictment said videos - which often promoted right-wing narratives on issues such as immigration, gender and the economy - were secretly "edited, posted, and directed" by two RT employees.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Last week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced new sanctions against RT, accusing it of being a "de facto arm of Russia's intelligence apparatus".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The top US diplomat told reporters on Friday that RT was part of a network of Russian-backed media outlets which have sought to covertly "undermine democracy in the United States".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He added that the Russian government has "embedded within RT, a unit with cyber-operational capabilities and ties to Russian intelligence".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>RT livestreamed Mr Blinken's remarks on X and declared it the "US's latest conspiracy theory".-BBC<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Amazon tells staff to get back to office five days a week<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Amazon is ordering staff back to the office five days a week as it ends its hybrid work policy.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The change will come into force from January, Amazon's chief executive Andy Jassy said in a memo to staff.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"We’ve decided that we’re going to return to being in the office the way we were before the onset of Covid", he said, adding that it would help staff be "better set up to invent, collaborate, and be connected enough to each other".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Mr Jassy has long been known as a sceptic of remote work, but Amazon staff were previously allowed to work from home two days a week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Amazon's push to get corporate staff back into the office has been a source of tension within the firm which employs more than 1.5 million people globally in full-time and part-time roles.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Staff at its Seattle headquarters staged a protest last year as the company tightened the full remote work allowance that was put in place during the pandemic.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Amazon subsequently fired the organiser of the protest, prompting claims of unfair retaliation, a dispute that has been taken up with labour officials.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In his message on Monday, Mr Jassy said he was worried that Amazon - which has long prided itself on preserving the intensity of a start-up while growing to become a tech giant - was seeing its corporate culture diluted by flexible work and too many bureaucratic layers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Mr Jassy, who replaced founder Jeff Bezos as chief executive in 2021, said he had created a "bureaucracy mailbox" for staff to make complaints about unnecessary rules and the company was asking managers to reorganise so that managers are overseeing more people.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Amazon said those changes could lead to job cuts<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In addition to returning to the office five days a week, Amazon said it would be hot-desking in the US.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The company said staff could still work from home in unusual circumstances, such as a sick child or house emergency, as was the case before the pandemic.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>But unless they have been granted an exemption, Mr Jassy said: "Our expectation is that people will be in the office outside of extenuating circumstances".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Getty Images Amazon chief executive Andy Jassy sitting down, mid-sentence, gesturing with his hand. He is wearing a dark blue jacket with lighter flecks and a light blue shirt.Getty Images<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Amazon boss Andy Jassy says it is time for staff to come back to the office five days a week<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Amazon's stance contrasts with the UK government's approach which has promised to make flexible working a default right from day one as part of a new employment rights bill due to be published next month.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Jonathan Reynolds told the Times newspaper that the government wants to end the "culture of presenteeism", and said there were "real economic benefits" to people working from home.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He said there was a balance to be struck, but flexible working arrangements could help businesses recruit from a wider pool of people.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Remote work peaked during the pandemic. Many companies started recalling staff in 2022, but the return has been incomplete.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>As of this summer, about 12% of full-time employees in the US were fully remote and another 27% reported having hybrid work policies in place, according to a monthly survey by economists Jose Maria Barrero, Nicholas Bloom, and Steven J Davis.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Bank bosses such as JP Morgan's Jamie Dimon have been among the most high-profile figures critical of remote work and likely to demand full-time office attendance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>But the attitude has also spread to other industries, with UPS and Dell recalling staff back to the office full-time this year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In his memo, Mr Jassy said that Amazon's experience with its move to a hybrid policy had "strengthened our conviction about the benefits" of working in person.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>But Prof Bloom, a professor at Stanford, said he did not think the announcements were a sign of a wider shift in work policies, noting that his data has found time spent at the office has been fairly stable for more than a year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"For every high profile company cancelling work-from-home, there's others that seem to be expanding it - they just don't get picked up in the media," he said.=-BBC<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>TikTok says US ban would have ‘staggering’ impact on free speech<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>TikTok argued in court on Monday that a US law - which would see it banned unless it is sold by ByteDance - would have a “staggering” impact on the free speech of its US users.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The law was prompted by concerns that US users' data is vulnerable to exploitation by China's government.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>TikTok and ByteDance have repeatedly denied links to the Chinese authorities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The companies sued to block the legislation in early May, calling it unconstitutional and an effective ban on the speech of its 170 million US users.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>A panel of three judges heard its arguments at an appeals court in Washington DC on Monday.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"This law imposes extraordinary speech prohibition based on indeterminate future risks," TikTok and ByteDance's lawyer Andrew Pincus told the court.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Concerns around China came up early, with Mr Pincus stating that the firm "is not owned" by the country.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"The owner of TikTok is ByteDance Limited, a Cayman Islands holding company,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>But Judge Sri Srinivasan responded that the firm was "subject to Chinese control".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Mr Pincus said the US government does not allege any malfeasance has taken place - and the firm was being punished over the suggestion that there might be issues in the future.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>But he was challenged on his argument that the law would be an unprecedented ban on a single speaker - and his claim that it would be "unfeasible" to divest the US arm of the firm.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Judge Ginsberg argued the law is "an absolute bar on the current arrangement of control" of the company, not the company itself.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>He also said it targeted a group of companies controlled by a so-called foreign adversary, rather than TikTok alone.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>When and why could TikTok be banned in the US?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Constitutional right<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Jeffrey Fisher, representing creators concerned by the law, said it could impede their constitutional right to work with the editor and publisher of their choice – such as TikTok under its current ownership.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>TikTok creator Tiffany Cianci, who is not among the creators involved in the lawsuit, was livestreaming outside the hearing to update viewers on proceedings.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>She told the BBC that 65,000 people tuned into her TikTok Live.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"The American people care about this issue," she said. "They're tuning in because they're worried about losing something."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Getty Images Tiffany Cianci shown holding her smartphone to her ear while filming herself on a smartphone attached to a ring light outside a courthouse in Washington, DC.Getty Images<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Political and educational content creator Tiffany Cianci livestreaming outside the E. Barret Prettyman courthouse on Monday.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Ms Cianci added that the platform's use by politicians in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election felt "hypocritical" and made her doubt the security concerns at the heart of the controversial law.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"If it were dangerous, they wouldn't be there," she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Department of Justice lawyer Daniel Tenny argued against TikTok's defence that the code behind its platform is based in the United States.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"There’s really no dispute here that the recommendation engine is maintained, developed, and written by ByteDance rather than TikTok US," he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"It is not expression by Americans in America - it is expression by Chinese engineers in China."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Mr Fisher had claimed posts on the platform in the US were American speech that was "at most curated by a foreign company".<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>In addition to data concerns, officials and lawmakers have expressed alarm at the prospect of TikTok being used by the Chinese government to spread propaganda to Americans.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>However, advocates of America's powerful free speech rights, enshrined in the First Amendment of the US Constitution, have said upholding the divest-or-ban law would be a gift to authoritarian regimes everywhere.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Xiangnong Wang, a staff attorney at Columbia University's Knight First Amendment Institute, said repressive regimes worldwide may use it to "justify new restrictions on their own citizens’ right to access information, ideas, and media from abroad."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>'High stakes'<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>But according to James Lewis, of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, the law was drafted to withstand judicial scrutiny.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"The substance of the case against TikTok is very strong," Mr Lewis said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"The key point is whether the court accepts that requiring divestiture does not regulate speech."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Mr Lewis added that the courts usually defer to the president on national security matters.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Regardless of how the appeals court rules, most experts agree the case could drag on for months, if not longer.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Gautam Hans, clinical professor of law at Cornell Law School, told the BBC he believes an appeal is likely either way.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>The government's ability to legislate and regulate where national security is concerned is "paramount," he said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>"They cannot have that limited by the courts."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>But the issues are also "existential" for TikTok, he added, with the company saying it cannot divest and would as such have no choice but to shut down.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Mike Proulx, vice president and research director at analysis firm Forrester, added the "high stakes" case would likely progress to the US' highest court, the Supreme Court.-BBC<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-right:50.35pt;line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:10.05pt'><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:10.05pt'><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:10.05pt'><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=X-NONE style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'> </span><i><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Invest Wisely!</span></i><span lang=EN-US style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Bulls n Bears </span></b><span lang=EN-US style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Courier New";color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Cellphone: +263 71 944 1674 | +27 79 993 5557 </span><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Email: </span><span lang=EN-US><a href="mailto:bulls@bullszimbabwe.com"><span style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>bulls@bullszimbabwe.com</span></a></span><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Website: </span><span lang=EN-US><a href="http://www.bullszimbabwe.com"><span style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>www.bullszimbabwe.com</span></a></span><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Blog: </span><span lang=EN-US><a href="http://www.bullszimbabwe.com/blog"><span style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>www.bullszimbabwe.com/blog</span></a></span><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Twitter (X): @bullsbears2010<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>LinkedIn: Bulls n Bears Zimbabwe<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%;background:white'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>Facebook: </span><span lang=EN-US><a href="http://www.facebook.com/BullsBearsZimbabwe"><span style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>www.facebook.com/BullsBearsZimbabwe</span></a></span><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.5pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:33.35pt;line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US><img border=0 width=278 height=115 id="_x0000_i1028" src="cid:image004.png@01DB0901.179B90D0"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</xml><![endif]--></span><span lang=EN-US style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-left:36.0pt;line-height:115%;background:white'><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#222222;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:10.05pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><strong><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:#345883'>INVESTORS DIARY 2024</span></strong><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=175 style='width:131.3pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:12.6pt;line-height:105%'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Company</span></b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=207 style='width:155.5pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Event</span></b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Venue</span></b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=bottom style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Date & Time</span></b><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=175 valign=top style='width:131.3pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=207 style='width:155.5pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Trebuchet MS",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=top style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Trebuchet MS",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:72.0pt;text-indent:-72.0pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=175 valign=top style='width:131.3pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=207 style='width:155.5pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Trebuchet MS",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=top style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Trebuchet MS",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:72.0pt;text-indent:-72.0pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=175 valign=top style='width:131.3pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=207 style='width:155.5pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Trebuchet MS",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=top style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Trebuchet MS",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:72.0pt;text-indent:-72.0pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=382 colspan=2 valign=top style='width:286.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#D9D9D9;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>Companies under Cautionary<o:p></o:p></span></b></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#D9D9D9;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p></td><td width=175 valign=bottom style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#D9D9D9;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><b><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=382 colspan=2 valign=top style='width:286.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=bottom style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=382 colspan=2 valign=top style='width:286.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>CBZH<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>GetBucks<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=bottom style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>EcoCash<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=382 colspan=2 valign=top style='width:286.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Padenga<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Econet<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=bottom style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>RTG<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=382 colspan=2 valign=top style='width:286.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Fidelity<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>TSL<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=bottom style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>FMHL<o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:3.25pt'><td width=382 colspan=2 valign=top style='width:286.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=353 style='width:264.7pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=175 valign=bottom style='width:131.3pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-right:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoBodyText style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:3.25pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr style='height:99.35pt'><td width=910 colspan=4 style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:99.35pt'><p class=MsoBodyText align=center style='margin:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align:center;line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US><a href="mailto:info@bulls.co.zw"><span lang=EN-ZW style='color:windowtext;mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=804 height=268 id="Picture_x0020_2" src="cid:image005.jpg@01DB0901.179B90D0"></span></a></span><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;height:99.35pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#1F497D;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><i><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:8.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#1F497D;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><i><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:8.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:white'>DISCLAIMER: This report has been prepared by Bulls ‘n Bears, a division of Faith Capital (Pvt) Ltd for general information purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for any securities. The information contained in this report has been compiled from s believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty is made or guarantee given as to its accuracy or completeness. All opinions expressed and recommendations made are subject to change without notice. Securities or financial instruments mentioned herein may not be suitable for all investors. Securities of emerging and mid-size growth companies typically involve a higher degree of risk and more volatility than the securities of more established companies. Neither Faith Capital nor any other member of Bulls ‘n Bears nor any other person, accepts any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from any use of this report or its contents or otherwise arising in connection therewith. Recipients of this report shall be solely responsible for making their own independent investigation into the business, financial condition and future prospects of any companies referred to in this report. Other Indices quoted herein are for guideline purposes only and d from third parties.</span></i><i><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:8.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></i></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><i><span lang=EN-GB style='font-size:8.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:white'><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=top style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:106%'><span lang=EN-GB style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'> (c) 2024 Web: </span><span lang=EN-US><a href="http://www.bullszimbabwe.com"><span lang=EN-GB style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>www.bullszimbabwe.com</span></a></span><span lang=EN-GB style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'> Email: </span><span lang=EN-US><a href="mailto:bulls@bullszimbabwe.com"><span lang=EN-GB style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'>bulls@bullszimbabwe.com</span></a></span><span lang=EN-GB style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'> Tel: +27 79 993 5557 | +263 71 944 1674</span><span lang=EN-US style='mso-fareast-language:EN-ZW'><o:p></o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td width=910 colspan=4 valign=bottom style='width:682.8pt;border:solid #BFBFBF 1.0pt;border-top:none;background:#F2F2F2;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-size:8.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></td><td width=6 style='width:4.4pt;padding:0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm'><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:105%'><span lang=EN-US style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></div><p class=MsoNormal><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span lang=EN-US><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div></body></html>