Implications of the AfCFTA Investment Protocol for Business in the Continent

AmCham Ghana, under the auspices of the AmCham Ghana AfCFTA Resource Center, hosted ,

The principal objective of this Protocol is to support the objectives of the AfCFTA as set out in Articles 3 and 4 of the Agreement, to promote, facilitate and protect investments that foster sustainable development of State Parties, establish a transparent and sound continental legal framework on investment, taking into account the interests of State Parties, investors and local communities, provide security and predictability in the prevention and management of investment disputes, create a level playing field for African investors, and promote and enhance common positions and cooperation on matters related to investment promotion, facilitation and protection.

According to Patience Okala, the Protocol is the new forward-looking framework for investment regulation on the African continent. It presents itself as the platform for meeting the profit expectations of investors as well as the sustainable development aspirations of African countries.

This Protocol defines the rights and obligations of State Parties and investors and applies to State Parties, as defined in Article 1(v) of the Agreement, and to investors and investments as defined in Article 1 of this Protocol, as well as all investments made before or after the entry into force of the Protocol but shall not apply to any investment dispute that arose or any claim that was settled before the entry into force of the Protocol. Learn more.

 

DFC Announces Call For Applications For Climate-Focused Investment Funds

Ahead of President Biden’s Leaders Summit on Climate, agency announces new climate action 

 

WASHINGTON – U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has announced a rolling Call for Applications from private equity, growth capital, infrastructure, and venture capital fund managers seeking DFC investment for funds targeting climate mitigation, adaptation, and solutions. In support of President Biden’s Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad and the administration’s Leaders Summit on Climate starting, the Call for Applications is one of the new climate and climate-focused investment initiatives the agency is pursuing to help developing countries reduce emissions, increase renewable energy usage, protect ecosystems, and enhance resilience.

“Climate change is negatively impacting health and productivity, food production, and critical infrastructure around the world, but people in developing countries are particularly vulnerable to the impacts from climate change,” said DFC Chief Operating Officer David Marchick. “This Call for Applications will help DFC identify opportunities to mobilize private sector investment in innovative and impactful solutions to climate change, bolstering climate resilience across developing countries.”

The impacts from climate change, along with the health and economic impacts from COVID-19, have the potential to reverse significant economic gains made in developing countries over the past several decades. DFC is utilizing its financing tools to facilitate increased private sector investment that addresses climate change and drives climate-focused investment in developing countries.

The Call for Applications is one action DFC is taking to leverage its toolkit to support climate action in emerging markets. DFC is committed to helping developing countries mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change while promoting sustainable economic growth.

Eligible funds should advance strategies targeting climate mitigation, adaptation, and resiliency, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable forestry, climate-resilient infrastructure, e-mobility, technology to reduce carbon, battery storage, smart infrastructure, agriculture diversification, and technology-enabled climate mitigation and adaptation solutions in DFC-eligible countries. DFC is targeting funds with a total capitalization of $100 million or more, including the DFC commitment. The investment amount may range from $10 million to $400 million in equity or debt financing but will be limited to no more than 20% of a fund’s total capitalization, as determined by DFC.

Interested fund managers can apply for an investment on DFC.gov/funds using the directions for submission. DFC will review proposals on a rolling-basis and will continue to collect submissions indefinitely. Opportunities will be evaluated as part of a rigorous evaluation process upon the discretion of the DFC. Applicants are also welcome to submit questions about the Call to DFC.

###

 

U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is America’s development bank. DFC partners with the private sector to finance solutions to the most critical challenges facing the developing world today. We invest across sectors including energy, healthcare, critical infrastructure, and technology. DFC also provides financing for small businesses and women entrepreneurs in order to create jobs in emerging markets. DFC investments adhere to high standards and respect the environment, human rights, and worker rights.

W.A.S.P Introduces Managed Print Services

W.A.S.P Limited, a Document Management Services company based in Ghana introduced Managed Print Services in Ghana. W.A.S.P is the only HP accredited Managed Print Service providers in Ghana and their approach allows you to attain tangible business benefit by adopting a strategic print management process.

MPS is an approach which analyses all of your processes and workflow of handling documents. With MPS you can outsource printing functions, whiles still retaining over quality, performance and cost. In a well managed print environment you will improve service and productivity.

MPS simplifies management and improves visibility by providing comprehensive monthly reports that include analysis of performance against service levels, consumables usage, trend in service calls, and recommendations for new or replacement equipment.

Over the past four years, W.A.S.P have successfully implemented a number of transformational projects in both the Public and Private Sectors, and the International Organisation sector.

Managing Director of W.A.S.P, Grant Webber said they firmly believe they are your partner of choice, especially given their market leadership with similar transformational projects.

Ecoalpha Introduces The Seeker Aircraft To The Ghanaian Market

Ecoalpha, a wholly owned Ghanaian aircraft dealership and aviation services provider introduced the Seeker Aircraft in Ghana at an event at the Best Western Premiere Hotel in Accra on Wednesday, August 29 2018.

The Seeker is a versatile, purpose built, light observation aircraft specially designed and developed for quality aerial surveillance. It provides unmatched surveillance specific qualities including its flexibility, maneuverability and visibility when compared to both fixed and rotary wing aircrafts.

The Seeker, a FAA Part 23 Normal Category Certified aircraft, features a side-by-side configured cockpit with helicopter-like visibility. In addition, the Seeker’s high mounted pusher propeller and convenient tail wheel landing configuration make it superior aircraft operation during short take off and landing at austere locations.

All this, coupled with the Seeker’s low operating and acquisition costs make it the most cost-effective surveillance Aircraft on the market today.

This aircraft offers great usability in various organizations and governmental agencies. In an effort to maximize its use, Ecoalpha is looking to partner with companies and governmental agencies interested in quality aerial surveillance. These include but not limited to National Security, Traffic Control, Aerial Mapping, Military Operations, Agriculture, Pipeline and Powerline Inspection, Tourism, ISR Missions, and more.

It is Ecoalpha’s vision to see at least one Seeker in every African country within the next 2 years.

Learn more about the Seeker here