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Following the conclusion of the 2024 Cosafa Under-17 Boys’ Championship where Zambia emerged champions, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has congratulated the lads.FAZ president Andrew Kamanga has congratulated the lads for capping their Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualification with a trophy.
“On behalf of my executive committee and the entire football family, I wish to congratulate the under-17 boys’ national team and technical bench for being crowned Cosafa champions,” said Kamanga.
“This is special as it has added to our Cosafa trophy haulage this year, where we won the senior women, under-20 women, under-17 girls and boys. The under-17 boys made it four Cosafa trophies in the history of our game from the first one won in 2017, 2019, 2022 and 2024.”
Kamanga added 2024 has closed on a high and will give his executive impetus to pick up next year. “This success is as a result of a robust grassroots strategy anchored on our 10-year strategic plan.
“Our technical directorate has tapped into our decentralization program where talent is tapped across the country. A big thank you to the provinces, clubs, government, FAZ secretariat and the entire football family for continuing to support the Zambian game,” he explained.
“With this foundation, 2025 can only get better for Zambian football.”
Zambia successfully defended the Cosafa title they won in Malawi in 2022 by defeating Angola 2-1 to clinch the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations | COSAFA Qualifier at the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto Stadium on Friday.
Mkushi based Mapalo Simute was named Player of the Tournament while Abel Nyirongo won the top scorer’s gong with seven goals.
In another significant stride towards empowering students with requisite skills to thrive in the global technological landscape, TD Africa has formed an alliance with the global ICT leader, Huawei, to establish an Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) hub at Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University (KOMU), Owerri.
During the official launch of the ICT Academy held in Owerri, the school’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ikechukwu Dozie, expressed optimism about the transformative impact the ICT hub would have on the university, saying it would promote tech excellence and foster self-reliance among students.
His words: “Take the academy seriously; it’s a rare privilege for the school to host such a transformative technological hub.
“This academy will change your lives and make you highly sought after upon graduation.” He also commended TD Africa and Huawei for selecting KOMU for this initiative and assured them that the university would fully leverage this opportunity as it is the first of its kind since it was established in 2016.
Representing the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, the Commissioner for Digital Economy and e-governance, Dr. Chimezie Amadi, highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering digital literacy, saying, “We are building a digital city in the state, embracing a smart economy that rules the modern world, so, the ICT Academy aligns perfectly with this vision by equipping students with essential skills for the global tech workforce.”
Chioma Chimere, the Coordinating Managing Director of TD Africa, underscored the growing importance of digital literacy encouraging the students that the ICT Academy opens a new avenue of knowledge that will distinguish them in the digital space.
Buttressing TD Africa’s, commitment to empowering Africa with transformative global technology, she said “technology drives every aspect of modern life, and without it, we risk falling behind.”
While Huawei’s representative, Gari Li, urged the students to seize the opportunity provided by TD Africa and Huawei to develop their digital skills, he emphasized the role of ICT in shaping the 21st century saying “The ICT Academy offers hands-on experience and knowledge essential for thriving in the modern technological era.”
As technology continues to drive progress in the 21st century, TD Africa reaffirms its commitment to empowering youth continent-wide, fostering self-reliance, and preparing them for success in the digital economy
This weekend marks Matchday 3 of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, with important games in every group as Al Hilal looks to build on their undefeated start to the group stage.
Teams are battling for their first wins or to solidify their standings.
Below is a thorough explanation of what to anticipate in each group:
GROUP A
Al Hilal Omdurman of Group A is going to Algiers in an attempt to continue their undefeated start in the group stage.
With six points, the Sudanese team will take on the tenacious MC Alger squad, currently in second place with four points.
After defeating Young Africans 2-0 in the previous round, MC Alger is confident that the home fans at the Stade du 5 Juillet will make Al Hilal uncomfortable.
Both teams are eager for a victory when TP Mazembe hosts Young Africans in Lubumbashi.
Yanga, who has no point or objective, and Mazembe, who has one, must ignite their campaigns to remain competitive.
This match could be close and decisive because both teams are having offensive difficulties.
Fixtures:
TP Mazembe vs. Young Africans – 14 Dec, 13:00 GMT
MC Alger vs. Al Hilal Omdurman – 14 Dec, 19:00 GMT
Table Standing
Group B:
FAR Maniema Union, who have two points after two draws, will play Rabat, who leads the group with four points, in Kinshasa.
With Mohamed Hrimat spearheading their assault, the Moroccan team, who have proven resilient throughout the competition, will look to secure a crucial away victory.
Maniema, who has won six straight games in all competitions, will use home crowds and Joseph Bakasu’s ingenuity to put the visitors to the test.
In a game of continental powerhouses, Mamelodi Sundowns takes on Raja Casablanca in Pretoria.
Iqraam Rayners’ excellent home form will hopefully enable Sundowns, who haven’t won in the group, collect three points.
Raja, who is unbeaten away but battling with form, will look on Younes Najjari to spur a comeback.
Fixtures:
Maniema Union vs. FAR Rabat – 14 Dec, 13:00 GMT
Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Raja Casablanca – 15 Dec, 13:00 GMT
Table Standing
Group C:
Later, Al Ahly will face Belouizdad in a pivotal encounter, with the Egyptian giants eyeing top spot in the group. The match will be played next week as Ahly are playing in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
Fixtures:
Stade d’Abidjan vs. Orlando Pirates – 14 Dec, 16:00 GMT
Al Ahly vs. Belouizdad – 22 Dec, 16:00 GMT
Table Standing
Group D
Group D features an exciting top-of-the-table clash as ES Tunis hosts Pyramids in Radès. Both teams, level on four points, are unbeaten and boast solid defenses.
Tunis has yet to concede in this year’s competition and will rely on their stellar home form, unbeaten in 21 games. Pyramids, with Ibrahim Adel leading their attack, will look to breach the Tunisian defense.
In Bamako, Djoliba hosts Sagrada Esperança, with both sides seeking their first group stage victory. Djoliba’s defense has been solid, but their attack has struggled, failing to score in the last two games.
Sagrada will need Cachí to step up if they are to take anything away from Mali.
Fixtures:
ES Tunis vs. Pyramids – 14 Dec, 19:00 GMT
Djoliba vs. Sagrada – 15 Dec, 16:00 GMT
Table Standing
Matchday 3 Fixtures (All timings GMT):
14 Dec, 13:00: TP Mazembe vs. Young Africans
14 Dec, 13:00: Maniema Union vs. FAR Rabat
14 Dec, 16:00: Stade d’Abidjan vs. Orlando Pirates
14 Dec, 19:00: MC Alger vs. Al Hilal Omdurman
14 Dec, 19:00: ES Tunis vs. Pyramids
15 Dec, 13:00: Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Raja Casablanca
15 Dec, 16:00: Djoliba vs. Sagrada Esperança
22 Dec, 16:00: Al Ahly vs. Belouizdad
The post CAFCL: Battle For Africa Elite Club Title Intensifies first appeared on Africa Top Sports.
Afrobeat musician, Seun Kuti, has urged the governments of African countries to ban the leader of the United Kingdom, UK, Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, from coming to the continent following her remarks about Nigeria.
DAILY POST reports that Badenoch has stood by her position on Nigeria, despite accusations from Vice President Kashim Shettima and others who claim she has denigrated the country.
Badenoch has allegedly described her upbringing in Nigeria as being overshadowed by fear and insecurity in a country plagued by corruption.
Reacting during a recent Instagram live session, Kuti called for the leader of the UK’s Conservative Party to be banned from entering Africa.
He said, “Many have been praising this woman [Kemi Badenoch]; someone who has been insulting us, not only us but our ancestors. She said we should pay Europeans for colonialism.
“She’s saying we should pay them for killing millions of our ancestors; for all the atrocities that they committed in our lands.
“She’s someone who should be banned by African governments from stepping into Africa. Once she steps into Africa, she should be jailed.”
Elizabeth Vincent, Yenagoa
The administrator of the presidential amnesty programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has praised president Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his exemplary leadership at the recently concluded 11th session of the Nigeria-south africa Bi-national commission (BNC), held in cape town, south africa.
Dr. Otuaro stateted President Tinubu’s strategic direction and commitment, which ensured the active participation of the Nigerian delegation in the bilateral discussions, Tinubu co-chaired the session with south african president cyril Ramaphosa, demonstrating his dedication to strengthening the bilateral ties and strategic cooperation between the two nations under the framework of the BNC.
Otuaro, who led the PAP team to the session, expressed optimism about the outcomes of the talks, particularly the harmonized memorandum of understanding (MoU) to be signed by Nigeria and South Africa. He emphasized that the agreements would be mutually beneficial, advancing economic and political interests for both nations.
The PAP administrator specifically commended President Tinubu for incorporating elements of the PAP into the agreements. He noted that this inclusion would streamline the implementation of training programs for Niger Delta youths, especially in education and commercial aviation.
“This development is a significant boost for the PAP’s objectives,” Otuaro said. “It enhances our initiatives for sustainable peace, security, stability, and socio-economic growth in the Niger Delta under the President’s Renewed Hope agenda.”
Dr. Otuaro further described Tinubu’s support for the PAP as a reflection of his deep commitment to the Niger Delta people.
“I applaud his excellency, president Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for providing quality leadership at the 11th Session of the Nigeria-south africa Bi-national Commission,” he stated. “The President’s effective leadership not only guided Nigeria’s delegation but also ensured that the bilateral negotiations were focused on achieving mutual benefits through the MoU.”
He added, “I am particularly grateful that the PAP will benefit from this agreement, which includes educational and vocational training opportunities for Niger Delta youths in commercial aviation and other trade sectors.”
Dr. Otuaro concluded by reiterating the importance of these bilateral partnerships, noting that they align with the broader goals of peace and development for the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole.
The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has called for partnership with the management of Power Africa to realise his administration’s vision of providing 24/7 affordable and reliable electricity in the state.
The governor met with the management of Power Africa at the just concluded Africa Investment Forum, which was held in Rabat, Morocco.
According to Prince Abiodun, the meeting aimed to enhance Ogun State’s energy infrastructure and provide reliable electricity to its citizens, industries, and businesses.
Power Africa is an initiative focused on increasing access to electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa, leveraging investments and public-private partnerships to boost energy generation, transmission, and distribution.
The meeting explored opportunities to attract investments, strengthen capacity building, and enhance technical expertise for the newly established Ministry of Energy.
According to the Governor, Ogun State is committed to achieving energy self-sufficiency through innovative initiatives in gas-to-power projects and renewable energy solutions.
He expressed optimism about collaborating with Power Africa to meet the state’s growing energy demands while fostering sustainable development.
Prince Abiodun also held a strategic meeting with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines of Morocco to explore potential partnerships in the mining and hydrocarbon sectors.
This meeting comes on the heels of Ogun State’s recent designation as a frontier state by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), highlighting the state’s growing significance in Nigeria’s energy landscape.
The discussions focused on identifying collaborative opportunities that could unlock Ogun State’s vast mineral and hydrocarbon potential.
Governor Abiodun emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable economic growth and development, noting that this initiative aligns with his administration’s vision for a more prosperous Ogun State.
Prince Abiodun had earlier met with the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, where he spoke about the investment opportunities that abound in the state, especially in livestock value addition, timber processing, renewable energy, and investments in the power sector.
Prince Abiodun also mentioned that Ogun State is exploring opportunities for the establishment of an automotive assembly plant and extending the Lagos red and blue rail lines from Agbado to Kajola and from Okokomaiko to Agbara/Lusada, as well as the Purple Line, with its route extending to the Redeemed Camp on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
In a bold move to combat neonatal jaundice in Nigeria, Reckitt, a global leader in health, hygiene, and nutrition, has partnered with Oscar Anderson, Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE), and the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) to launch Project Oscar ‘Light for Life’ initiative.
This initiative which focuses on neonatal jaundice screening, treatment, and kernicterus prevention, was officially launched at an event held on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at the Four Points Hotel in Lagos, coinciding with the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
This flagship program aims to address the urgent challenges surrounding neonatal jaundice (NNJ) in Nigeria, a condition affecting approximately 60% of term neonates and up to 100% of preterm infants. NNJ remains a leading cause of preventable brain damage, including conditions like kernicterus and cerebral palsy, despite the availability of effective and affordable treatments.
Challenges such as inadequate diagnostic tools, unreliable phototherapy equipment, and widespread misconceptions about the condition continue to hinder proper management.
Project Oscar – Light For Life seeks to close these gaps by providing healthcare facilities with essential tools, such as phototherapy units and bilirubinometers, ensuring accurate diagnoses and timely treatment.
The program also includes training for healthcare professionals on recognizing and managing NNJ and raising awareness among mothers and families to dispel common myths.
Originally launched in Vietnam by young disability activist Oscar Anderson MBE and Reckitt, where it has treated over 150,000 newborns since 2019, the program is now expanding to Nigeria as part of a broader effort to reduce neonatal mortality and prevent lifelong disabilities.
This initiative aligns with global health priorities and seeks collaboration with international bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to integrate NNJ management into global neonatal care guidelines.
Speaking at the event, Akbar Ali Shah, General Manager, Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasised the urgent need for such an initiative, stating “Every child deserves a healthy start in life, yet for far too many families, neonatal jaundice remains a silent threat—often going unnoticed and untreated until it’s too late.
At Reckitt, we recognise that addressing this challenge demands more than just providing tools; it calls for steadfast commitment, robust partnerships, and comprehensive education. With Project Oscar, we are bringing these critical elements together.
As Nigeria stands among the nations most affected by neonatal jaundice, expanding Project Oscar to Nigeria represents a transformative step forward and we are determined to ensure this initiative creates a healthier, brighter future for every child born in Nigeria .”
Her Excellency Toyin Saraki, Founder and President of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, also commented saying, “It is fitting that we gather on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, this year’s theme reminds us that inclusion is not just a moral imperative but a necessity for sustainable progress and development.
Neonatal jaundice If left untreated, it can lead to kernicterus, cerebral palsy, and other severe disabilities, contributing to as much as 5–14% of neonatal deaths.
The statistics are sobering, but they also call us to action. Today, as we nationally launch Project Oscar – Light For Life, we confront this challenge with urgency and resolve, and the understanding that neonatal jaundice is not just a medical issue;
it is a matter of equity and justice.”
Oscar Anderson, whose personal journey inspired the initiative, equally shared his thoughts on the expansion of Project Oscar to Nigeria, “As someone who has lived with the consequences of neonatal jaundice, I know firsthand the pain it can cause—both for the individual and their family. This project was born out of my determination to ensure that no child or parent has to endure what my family went through.
I am excited to see this initiative, which began in my home country of Vietnam, now taking root in Nigeria, a nation where the need is greatest.
Neonatal jaundice should never be a cause of lifelong challenges. I can’t wait to see the lives we will change together in Nigeria and beyond, as we shine the light of hope and healing into communities that need it the most.”
Prof. Akin Abayomi, Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, representing the Lagos State Governor, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, highlighted the transformative potential of Project Oscar and its significant pilot in Lagos State.
He remarked “It’s remarkable how such a simple therapy can profoundly improve life quality when timely intervention is provided. Project Oscar is a much-needed advancement in our mission to prevent neonatal jaundice and eradicate kernicterus in Lagos and across Nigeria. Lagos is honoured to be the beneficiary of this transformative initiative, and we are committed to maximizing its impact.”
As Project Oscar begins its transformative journey in Nigeria, Reckitt and Wellbeing Foundation Africa invites all stakeholders—healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders—to join the cause and advocate for sustainable improvements in neonatal care.
Hosts South Africa were defeated 2-1 by Zambia while Angola beat Zimbabwe 2-0 in the semi-finals that were played at the University of Johannesburg’s AW Muller Stadium on Wednesday.
The South African winger Emile Witbooi, who kept the supporters on the edge of their seats due to his effective trickery in the final third, provided an assist in the first minute to Siphiwe Mlondo to score from inside the penalty area.
Zambia’s right-sided forward Mapalo Simute delivered crosses but his teammates making runs into the penalty area did not get to the end of those deliveries. Offensively, Zambia mostly played direct football.
South Africa were great in combination play. They troubled Zambia with quick short passes but could not score more goals in the first half despite dominating in the final third.Zambia were awarded a penalty that Abel Nyirongo scored in the 22nd minute to equalise after a VAR check.
After a lengthy VAR check, Zambia attacking midfielder Vincent Mutondo was red-carded in the 24th minute having recklessly tackled Mlondo.
However, in the first half during the additional time, South African goalkeeper Lwandiso Radebe blocked the ball with his hands outside the penalty area and after a VAR check, he was also sent off.
Zambia scored their second in the 68th minute after the ball went through goalkeeper Lehlohonolo Mosia’s legs at the near post and substitute Robert Banda pounced on the loose ball to net from inside the goal area.
CSR-in-Action Advocacy, an arm of the CSR-in-Action Group, and a prominent advocate for sustainability and social impact, announced the winners of the 6th Community and Human Rights (CAHR) Africa Awards at an event which took place recently in Lagos, Nigeria.
Since 2018, the CAHR Africa Awards has honoured individuals and organisations committed to advancing community development and human rights across Africa. Sponsored and supported by Access Bank, the Ford Foundation and Zenera Consulting, this year’s Awards ceremony took a new dimension as it celebrated outstanding individuals and organisations across six categories.
Winners in the individual category were Omotoyosi Odufuye of Nigeria, Mercy Odondo of Kenya, and Ifenla Oligbinde who were winners of the Hajiya Gambo Sawaba Community Impact Award, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti Human Rights Award, and Mallam Aminu Kano Award for Leadership respectively. Bukar Mohammed won the Apostle Hayford Alile Humanitarian Award and a N500,000 grant.
In the corporate categories, winners were Yield Africa, recipient of the MKO Abiola Community Engagement Award, and TechHer Africa, winner of the Josephine Nkemdilim Masade Equal Rights Award. Additionally, Access Bank and Ford Foundation were specially acknowledged for their long-standing support of CSR-in-Action initiatives, empowering the organisation’s ongoing sustainability advocacy projects and impact.
A highlight of the ceremony was the special recognition of Tunde Onakoya, Founder of Chess in Slums Africa, a Non-Profit Organisation dedicated to empowering children in underserved communities through chess education, fostering critical thinking and resilience. He was awarded the Josephine Nkemdilim Masade Special Recognition Award, along with a grant of five hundred thousand Naira to support his impactful work.
Bekeme Masade Olowola, Chief Executive of CSR-in-Action, highlighted the courage and commitment of this year’s awardees, stating, “This year, we honour exceptional individuals and organisations driving positive change. Their selflessness, perseverance and innovative spirit leave us deeply moved and remind us why we are committed to this mission, pushing our team to raise the bar in recognising those who champion positive social impact”.
CSR-in-Action has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering positive social impact through initiatives such as the Community Engagement Standards (CES), endorsed by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, which reinforce responsible relationships within the extractive industries. By focusing on sustainability, community empowerment, and human rights, CSR-in-Action continues to amplify the voices of change-makers, support impactful solutions, and forge partnerships dedicated to creating lasting transformation across communities and industries.
Kate Henshaw, social advocate and chairman of the CAHR Africa Awards Jury, commended the transparency and integrity of the awards process stating, “The CAHR Africa Awards selection process is both rigorous and transparent, ensuring that each winner truly reflects the values of resilience and social impact. Our 2024 awardees have set a high standard, and I am proud to celebrate each of them for their outstanding commitment to positive change.”
Each awardee was selected through a meticulous, multi-phase process involving public nominations, internal review, nominee verification, public voting, and final jury evaluations based on criteria that highlighted their outstanding contributions to their communities. This year’s distinguished jury comprised thought leaders and advocates in sustainability and social justice, including Adeola Oyinlade, Senior Partner at Adeola Oyinlade & Co; Dr. Funmi Akinyele, CEO of Food Basket; Achaleke C. Leke, Executive Director of Local Youth Corner, Cameroon; and Marr Nyang, Executive Director of Gambia Participates.
The 2024 CAHR Africa Awards concluded with a powerful reminder of the role every individual, organisation, and corporation can play in building a just, inclusive, and sustainable Africa.
About CSR-in-Action Group:
CSR-in-Action Group is a sustainability-driven global consortium with a presence in Nigeria, Canada, and internationally. We specialise in consulting, advocacy, and training services, focusing on organisational development, corporate governance, and sustainability management. Our mission is to deliver solutions for sustained business development through ethical professionalism, flexibility, innovation, and global partnerships.
The semifinal line-up is complete at the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations | COSAFA Qualifier in Johannesburg with Zambia to take on South Africa and Angola facing best runner-up Zimbabwe on Wednesday.
Angola and Zimbabwe clash at the UJ AW Muller Stadium at 12h00 CAT (10h00 GMT), while Zambia and hosts South Africa do battle at the same venue at 15h00 VAT.
The three group winners had been determined before Monday’s final round of pool games, but Zimbabwe snuck into the best runner-up place following a thrilling 4-4 Group B draw with Namibia.
They have four points and +0 goal-difference, the same as Mozambique in Group A. But Zimbabwe have scored 10 goals in the tournament compared to the two of Mozambique.
South Africa beat Comoros 3-0 at the University of Johannesburg’s AW Muller Stadium.
South Africa took the lead in the fifth minute against Comoros when Selwyn Stevens pounced on a loose ball after Comoros goalkeeper spilled it. South Africa back four and holding midfielder Kamohelo Maraletse circulated the ball from one side to another in order to lure Comoros to press so that they could find spaces to exploit because they were defending too deep in their half.
Comoros mainly counter-attacked where striker Yazid Abdou Chakour was the focal point but he found it hard to beat the South African two central defenders as they simply guided him into wide spaces or dispossessed him.
Maraletse scored the second goal for South Africa from a Stevens’ cutback in the 63rd minute. In the 86th minute, Omphemetse Sekgoto scored the third goal for South Africa.
Business Aviation firm, Vivajets has announced its sponsorship of the Africa Financial Summit (AFIS) 2024, scheduled to take place from December 9 to 10 in Casablanca, Morocco.
The summit brings together policymakers, regulators, and financial industry leaders to explore strategies for building an efficient, inclusive, and sustainable financial sector in Africa.
With its sponsorship, Vivajets aims to underscores the transformative power of business aviation in fostering connectivity, driving innovation, and overcoming barriers to collaboration across Africa.
“Business aviation is not just a service; it’s a critical enabler for progress. It connects leaders, ideas, and opportunities, helping to shape a brighter future for Africa,” said Chukwuerika Achum, CEO of Vivajets.
Vivajets has seen rapid growth and is expanding its global footprint, building a reputation for luxury, exclusivity, and excellence in private aviation. Services range from aircraft charter and management to fractional ownership opportunities and aircraft sales, underpinned by its innovative platforms, Charterxe and FlyPJX.
Showcasing African Heritage and Luxury in Aviation
At AFIS 2024, Vivajets will exhibit its innovative offerings and engage in networking to connect with key stakeholders. This follows recent milestones, including its prominent role at the Lagos Fashion Week 2024, where the company showcased its newly designed cabin crew uniforms.
Created by Ivorian designer Loza Maléombho, known for her work in Beyoncé’s Black is King, the collection celebrates African heritage through contemporary fashion. “Inspired by the African Kinkeliba tree, the uniforms reflect a seamless blend of elegance, luxury, and cultural pride,” said Maléombho.
Speaking on this collaboration, Achum remarked, “Our partnership with Loza Maléombho aligns with our values of creativity and sophistication. Through initiatives like these, we’re redefining the image of African aviation on the global stage.”
Driving African Integration through Aviation
At the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda earlier this year, Achum emphasized the role of business aviation in promoting regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“Aviation bypasses the geographical and logistical barriers that have hindered Africa’s development, enabling hassle-free collaboration for leaders and businesses across the continent,” he stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Tejumade Salami, COO of Vivajets, added, “We are democratising private aviation, ensuring more leaders and organisations can harness its benefits to drive growth and transformation in Africa.”
Vivajets at AFIS 2024: A Vision for Africa’s Future
By supporting AFIS, Vivajets reinforces its mission to contribute to Africa’s development. The summit, founded by Jeune Afrique Media Group and the Africa CEO Forum, focuses on fostering dialogue to transform Africa’s financial sector and support sustainable growth.
“Vivajets believes in the power of connectivity, not just in aviation but also in ideas and innovation,” Salami noted. “We’re excited to collaborate with financial leaders at AFIS to explore how we can collectively unlock Africa’s potential.”
As Africa’s financial industry goes through transformation, Vivajets continues to position itself as a trusted partner for leaders and organizations seeking to understand the continent’s evolving industry.
Vivajets, a brand under Falcon Aerospace Limited, provides premier aviation services with a focus on innovation and inclusivity. Through its platforms, Charterxe and FlyPJX, the company is making private aviation more accessible while maintaining its commitment to luxury and excellence.
The technically-proficient Zimbabwe thrashed Eswatini 5-1 in a Group B game they dominated in all thirds of the field at the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto Campus Stadium, while Zambia began their title-defence with a 8-0 victory over Namibia in a high-intensity match played at the same venue on Thursday.
There was also a 4-0 victory for South Africa over Botswana in Group C, while Mauritius and Comoros copuld not be separated at 0-0 on day two of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations | COSAFA Qualifier.
Zimbabwe started on the front foot giving Eswatini all sorts of problems. With his trickery, Tadiwa Chakuchichi cut inside from the right, took on a few defenders before beating the Eswatini goalkeeper, Luyanda Ndlovu, at the near post to give Zimbabwe a well-deserved lead in the 21st minute.
South Africa were handsome winners in Group C as they overwhelmed Botswana, with new sensation Emile Witbooi, recently returned from trials at Cheslea, among the scorers.
Selwyn Stevens, Neo Bohloko and Kamohelo Maraletse were also on target in a dominant display from the home side that showed all their potential in the competition.
Comoros and Mauritius could not be separated though as they played to a goalless draw.
The Malawi U17 girls team have started their 2024 COSAFA Girls Under 17 Championship on a low note after going down 4-2 to hosts South Africa in their group B opening match.
The hosts looked hungry for early goals right from the first whistle as they created numerous scoring opportunities in the opening minutes but could not beat goalkeeper Esther Maulidi. They finally broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute through Leonay Kock.
Malawi Coach Linda Kasenda used all the ten infield players that she travelled with in the first group which arrived on Monday resting the seven girls who joined the team yesternight but pressure at the back made her make an early change introducing Grace Khunga for Ethel Tambala at 34 minutes.
South Africa got a penalty in the 36th minute following a foul in the box and captain Katleho Malebana converted from the spot to make it 2-0 for the hosts by half time.
The second half started with a double change for Malawi with Jean Fyson and Asimenye Mwanyongo replacing Enelesi Fabiano and Faluna Umali respectively. Mwanyongo made an immediate impact pulling one back for Malawi just a minute after her introduction.
Malawi tried to push for an equalizer but the hosts defended well. Knock then claimed a quick brace to claim a hattrick before Fatima Mali scored Malawi’s second goal two minutes before the end of the match.
Malawi will play Madagascar in the second group stage match on Saturday. Group winners and best runner-up will qualify to the knockout stage.