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IFC, Japan Promote Japanese Private Sector Participation in Africa’s Water Sector
JOHANNESBURG – IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, and the Development Bank of South Africa today convened a meeting of representatives from Japanese and South African companies, government, development agencies to explore opportunities to increase public and private investment and partnerships in the water sector in Southern Africa. The ‘Water Works’ seminar will focus on knowledge sharing in the areas of water supply, waste water and reuse, acid mine drainage, and improved efficiency.
Shinichi Asazuma, Minister at the Embassy of Japan to the Republic of South Africa, said, “Public-private partnerships play an important role in providing access to safe water and sanitation in Africa, and we are ready to support Japanese firms in investing in infrastructure on the continent.
Our activities in this regard are an important part of Japan’s efforts on private sector participation in development.”
Today, 2.5 billion people globally lack access to sanitation and at least 780 million people lack access to safe drinking water. Only 62 percent of Africans have access to safe water and 60 percent have access to adequate sanitation, the lowest rates in the world. Global estimates of economic losses from the lack of access to water and sanitation are estimated at $260 billion every year.
Water Works will consider the role PPPs can play in addressing some of the challenges faced by the water sector in Southern Africa. While PPPs present a promising model for collaboration in the sector, with many successful examples and case studies from across the region, their implementation is often hampered by a lack of knowledge sharing between various actors.
Emmanuel B. Nyirinkindi, IFC Senior Manager of Advisory Services in Public Private Partnerships for the Africa region said, ”In Sub-Saharan Africa, rapid urbanization and high population growth mean that national governments are struggling to deliver access to water for their citizens.
Partnerships between the private sector and governments can improve access to safe, affordable water and sanitation in a sustainable manner and help people live healthier and more prosperous lives.”
Following a successful event on PPPs last year, this seminar in partnership with JICA and DBSA included presentations from a range of public and private sector officials and experts. Speakers represented the Embassy of Japan to the Republic of South Africa, South Africa’s Department of Water Affairs, IFC, DBSA, JICA, Bigen Africa Services, WEC Projects, JETRO, eThekwini Municipality, the Water Stewardship Council, Prentec, Mintail, WRP Engineers, Yokogawa, NEC Europe, Suez Environment, Sembcorp and the Nepad Business Foundation.
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Musa Joins Jaiz Bank As Ambassador
Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa has been signed up by Jaiz Bank as a brand ambassador.
An elated Musa made the disclosure in a statement on his verified handle on micro-blogging site, X on Thursday.
The Kano Pillars striker urged his fans to troop to Jaiz Bank to do business for trusting him with the new role.
He exclaimed, “And to my amazing fans – if you want to support me, make sure to head over to Jaiz Bank and open your accounts with them today! ”
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He wrote, “✨Alhamdulillah✨ I am SO excited to announce that I’ve officially joined Jaiz Bank as their newest ambassador! 🎉💼
“A huge thank you to @JaizBankNG for trusting me and allowing me to be a part of this amazing journey! 🙏🏼💚 It’s an honor to represent a brand that believes in growth, security, and financial empowerment.
“I can’t wait to share all the incredible things we’ll be doing together! 🚀💡
And to my amazing fans – if you want to support me, make sure to head over to Jaiz Bank and open your accounts with them today! Let’s grow together! 💪🏼🔑
“@JaizBankNG is a non interest Financial institution poised with a mission to make life better through ethical Finance. 👌👌”
#NewBeginnings #BankWithJaizBank #PartneredUp #TeamJaizBank”
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Kenya Celebrates First Lady Rachel Ruto’s 56th Birthday
On November 20, 2024, Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, celebrated her 56th birthday and her husband President William Ruto publicly expressed his love and appreciation for his wife on this special day, wishing her well.
The birthday celebrations were marked by an outpouring of goodwill from political figures, media, and citizens across Kenya, who praised her for her grace, leadership, and significant contributions to society, particularly through initiatives like the Joyful Women Organisation, which aims to empower rural women.
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The day was characterized by a collective acknowledgment of her role as a national figure dedicated to community upliftment.
In a heartfelt message, President William Ruto took to social media, writing, “Happy birthday my love, @MamaRachelRuto. Continue being a blessing to me and our children. Mungu akubariki sana,” which translates to “God bless you abundantly.”
Other prominent leaders also extended their wishes to the First Lady, with Anne Waiguru, EGH, OGW, Governor of Kirinyaga County, tweeting, “Happy Birthday First Lady,” further showing the respect and admiration for Rachel Ruto’s leadership and impact.
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Gas Explosion in Katsina Filling Station Damages Six Vehicles
A gas cylinder explosion at a filling station in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State has resulted in significant damage to six vehicles, according to a statement from the Katsina State Police Command.
The command’s spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, confirmed the incident, which occurred on Friday, November 15, 2024.
He explained that a loud explosion alerted police operatives from the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters. Responding promptly, the Divisional Police Officer led a team to the site, supported by military personnel.
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“Upon arrival, operatives found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at Tamal filling station, along Kagadama-Magamar Jibia Road,” Sadiq-Aliyu stated. The joint team acted swiftly, deploying measures to protect lives and limit property damage. Their efforts successfully extinguished the fire.
The spokesperson added, “Six motor vehicles were significantly affected by the fire incident, but fortunately, no life was lost.”
State Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Abubakar-Musa, has directed a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Updates on the findings will be provided as investigations progress.
This incident highlights the need for heightened safety measures at gas filling stations to prevent such occurrences.