Day: November 2, 2023

Posted on

Fortrea Completes Expansion of Clinical Pharmacology Solutions Following Targeted Investments at its Four Clinical Research Units in U.S. and U.K.

Adds speed and agility with cGMP production at on-site pharmacies, adds capacity, improves flexible therapeutic capabilities and enhances experience for study volunteers

DURHAM, N.C., Nov. 02, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE) (the “Company”), a leading global contract research organization (CRO), today announced that it has completed a multi-year effort to expand its clinical pharmacology solutions and capacity, which are now fully available for customers. The expansion includes a 100,000 square feet state-of-the-art facility in Leeds, U.K. as well as approximately 20,000 square feet of new or renovated space, adding capacity and capabilities across its clinical research units (CRUs) in Dallas, Texas; Daytona, Florida; and Madison, Wisconsin.

“The increasing complexity of clinical pharmacology studies demands fit-for-purpose infrastructure, experience and expertise to protect the safety of study participants and the integrity of critically important data,” said Oren Cohen, M.D., Fortrea’s president of Clinical Pharmacology and chief medical officer. “Our integrated platform of services includes best-in-class infrastructure and experienced professionals who are fully dedicated to clinical pharmacology, including physicians, nurses, clinical scientists, CRAs and pharmacokineticists. The investments we have made target the capabilities and capacity that customers need to accurately assess early pipeline candidates and speed those with promise to later-phase development and ultimately to patients who need them.”

Facility enhancements following the completed expansion include Fortrea’s new CRU in Leeds as well as purpose-built rooms in Madison and Daytona designed for flexibility in executing complex early phase clinical studies. Improvements in recreational, living and “work-from-home” spaces at Fortrea CRUs have been constructed to enhance the experience of volunteers participating in research at the sites.

The expansion of Fortrea’s early clinical development pharmacy services facilities includes new state-of-the-art cGMP pharmacies in the Leeds and Daytona CRUs. All Fortrea CRUs will now have cGMP pharmacies within them. This enables on-site manufacture of sterile and non-sterile drug product. The design of its GMP-compliant facilities provides safe handling and delivery of GMP-quality drug product for the unique demands of clinical pharmacology studies, focusing on efficiency and flexibility with the level of controls expected by regulatory authorities and sponsors.

Enhancements in science and technology include the addition of artificial intelligence-enabled programs that optimize bed space utilization and clinic scheduling, and the application of failure modes and effects analysis to de-risk study execution before a study begins. Following investments in data collection systems, all clinical pharmacology study data collected within Fortrea’s CRUs are input directly into a digital bedside data capture system, which can also be used as an efficient electronic data capture solution.

“I believe Fortrea’s early clinical development solutions set a new standard for what the research industry should expect from its partners,” said Dr. Cohen. “I’m so proud of this team and know they will also benefit from the changes we have made. Just as they are inspired by our mission of bringing life-changing treatments to patients faster, I’m inspired by their dedication each day as we deliver solutions to our customers.”

About Fortrea

Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE) is a leading global provider of clinical development and patient access solutions to the life sciences industry. We partner with emerging and large biopharmaceutical, medical device and diagnostic companies to drive healthcare innovation that accelerates life changing therapies to patients in need. Fortrea provides phase I-IV clinical trial management, clinical pharmacology, differentiated technology enabled trial solutions and post-approval services.

Fortrea’s solutions leverage three decades of experience spanning more than 20 therapeutic areas, a passion for scientific rigor, exceptional insights and a strong investigator site network. Our talented and diverse team of more than 19,000 people working in more than 90 countries is scaled to deliver focused and agile solutions to customers globally.

Learn more about how Fortrea is becoming a transformative force from pipeline to patient at Fortrea.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) @Fortrea.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this press release, particularly those relating to the anticipated financial and other benefits, including, but not limited to, whether the investments at clinical research units in U.S. and U.K. will add capacity, improve therapeutic capabilities, enhance experience for study volunteers, speed development to later-phase trials and improve the integrity of data and whether the addition of artificial intelligence-enabled programs will optimize bed space utilization and clinic scheduling, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. Actual results could differ materially from expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements if one or more of the underlying assumptions or expectations prove to be inaccurate or are unrealized. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such expectations are and will be detailed in Fortrea’s registration statement on Form 10 initially filed with the SEC on May 15, 2023 (as amended and further supplemented), Fortrea’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 14, 2023, and in Fortrea’s other filings with the SEC. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to certain risks, uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Fortrea does not undertake responsibility for updating these statements, and these statement speak only as of the date of this press release.

Fortrea Contacts:

Fortrea Media: Sue Zaranek – 919-943-5422, media@fortrea.com
Fortrea Media: Kate Dillon – 646-818-9115, kdillon@prosek.com
Fortrea Investors: Hima Inguva – 877-495-0816, hima.inguva@fortrea.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8971131

Posted on

Fortrea Completes Expansion of Clinical Pharmacology Solutions Following Targeted Investments at its Four Clinical Research Units in U.S. and U.K.

Adds speed and agility with cGMP production at on-site pharmacies, adds capacity, improves flexible therapeutic capabilities and enhances experience for study volunteers

DURHAM, N.C., Nov. 02, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE) (the “Company”), a leading global contract research organization (CRO), today announced that it has completed a multi-year effort to expand its clinical pharmacology solutions and capacity, which are now fully available for customers. The expansion includes a 100,000 square feet state-of-the-art facility in Leeds, U.K. as well as approximately 20,000 square feet of new or renovated space, adding capacity and capabilities across its clinical research units (CRUs) in Dallas, Texas; Daytona, Florida; and Madison, Wisconsin.

“The increasing complexity of clinical pharmacology studies demands fit-for-purpose infrastructure, experience and expertise to protect the safety of study participants and the integrity of critically important data,” said Oren Cohen, M.D., Fortrea’s president of Clinical Pharmacology and chief medical officer. “Our integrated platform of services includes best-in-class infrastructure and experienced professionals who are fully dedicated to clinical pharmacology, including physicians, nurses, clinical scientists, CRAs and pharmacokineticists. The investments we have made target the capabilities and capacity that customers need to accurately assess early pipeline candidates and speed those with promise to later-phase development and ultimately to patients who need them.”

Facility enhancements following the completed expansion include Fortrea’s new CRU in Leeds as well as purpose-built rooms in Madison and Daytona designed for flexibility in executing complex early phase clinical studies. Improvements in recreational, living and “work-from-home” spaces at Fortrea CRUs have been constructed to enhance the experience of volunteers participating in research at the sites.

The expansion of Fortrea’s early clinical development pharmacy services facilities includes new state-of-the-art cGMP pharmacies in the Leeds and Daytona CRUs. All Fortrea CRUs will now have cGMP pharmacies within them. This enables on-site manufacture of sterile and non-sterile drug product. The design of its GMP-compliant facilities provides safe handling and delivery of GMP-quality drug product for the unique demands of clinical pharmacology studies, focusing on efficiency and flexibility with the level of controls expected by regulatory authorities and sponsors.

Enhancements in science and technology include the addition of artificial intelligence-enabled programs that optimize bed space utilization and clinic scheduling, and the application of failure modes and effects analysis to de-risk study execution before a study begins. Following investments in data collection systems, all clinical pharmacology study data collected within Fortrea’s CRUs are input directly into a digital bedside data capture system, which can also be used as an efficient electronic data capture solution.

“I believe Fortrea’s early clinical development solutions set a new standard for what the research industry should expect from its partners,” said Dr. Cohen. “I’m so proud of this team and know they will also benefit from the changes we have made. Just as they are inspired by our mission of bringing life-changing treatments to patients faster, I’m inspired by their dedication each day as we deliver solutions to our customers.”

About Fortrea

Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE) is a leading global provider of clinical development and patient access solutions to the life sciences industry. We partner with emerging and large biopharmaceutical, medical device and diagnostic companies to drive healthcare innovation that accelerates life changing therapies to patients in need. Fortrea provides phase I-IV clinical trial management, clinical pharmacology, differentiated technology enabled trial solutions and post-approval services.

Fortrea’s solutions leverage three decades of experience spanning more than 20 therapeutic areas, a passion for scientific rigor, exceptional insights and a strong investigator site network. Our talented and diverse team of more than 19,000 people working in more than 90 countries is scaled to deliver focused and agile solutions to customers globally.

Learn more about how Fortrea is becoming a transformative force from pipeline to patient at Fortrea.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) @Fortrea.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this press release, particularly those relating to the anticipated financial and other benefits, including, but not limited to, whether the investments at clinical research units in U.S. and U.K. will add capacity, improve therapeutic capabilities, enhance experience for study volunteers, speed development to later-phase trials and improve the integrity of data and whether the addition of artificial intelligence-enabled programs will optimize bed space utilization and clinic scheduling, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. Actual results could differ materially from expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements if one or more of the underlying assumptions or expectations prove to be inaccurate or are unrealized. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such expectations are and will be detailed in Fortrea’s registration statement on Form 10 initially filed with the SEC on May 15, 2023 (as amended and further supplemented), Fortrea’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 14, 2023, and in Fortrea’s other filings with the SEC. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to certain risks, uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Fortrea does not undertake responsibility for updating these statements, and these statement speak only as of the date of this press release.

Fortrea Contacts:

Fortrea Media: Sue Zaranek – 919-943-5422, media@fortrea.com
Fortrea Media: Kate Dillon – 646-818-9115, kdillon@prosek.com
Fortrea Investors: Hima Inguva – 877-495-0816, hima.inguva@fortrea.com

Posted on

LeddarTech Anuncia sua Participação em Conferências do Quarto Trimestre de 2023 com o Investidor

QUEBEC CITY, Canadá, Nov. 01, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A LeddarTech®, uma empresa de software automotivo que fornece tecnologia patenteada de software de fusão e percepção de sensores de baixo nível para ADAS e AD, anuncia a participação de Frantz Saintellemy, Presidente e CEO, nos seguintes eventos com investidores:

A LeddarTech participará de reuniões e de bate-papos informais com potenciais investidores e analistas do setor. Para mais informação ou para se inscrever, visite a seção “Events & Presentations” de relações com o Investidor da LeddarTech.

No dia 13 de junho de 2023, a Prospector Capital Corp. (“Prospector”) (NASDAQ: PRSR, PRSRU, PRSRW), uma empresa com isenção das Ilhas Caimã liderada pelo ex-Presidente da Qualcomm, Derek Aberle, e presidida pelo ex-Vice-Presidente da Qualcomm, Steve Altman, entraram em um acordo definitivo de fusão da empresa com a LeddarTech. Após a conclusão da transação, prevista para o quarto trimestre de 2023, a nova empresa conjunta, LeddarTech Holdings Inc. (“Newco”), deverá ser listada na NASDAQ sob o símbolo “LDTC”.

Sobre a LeddarTech

Uma empresa global de software fundada em 2007 e sediada na cidade de Quebec, com centros adicionais de P&D em Montreal, Toronto e Tel Aviv, Israel, a LeddarTech desenvolve e fornece soluções abrangentes de software de percepção que permitem a implantação de aplicações ADAS e de condução autônoma (AD). O software de nível automotivo da LeddarTech aplica algoritmos avançados de IA e visão computacional para gerar modelos 3D precisos do ambiente, permitindo uma melhor tomada de decisão e navegação mais segura. Esta tecnologia de alto desempenho, escalonável e econômica é disponível para OEMs e fornecedores de Nível 1-2 para a implementação eficiente de soluções ADAS para veículos automotivos e off-road.

A LeddarTech é responsável por várias inovações de sensor remoto, com mais de 150 patentes solicitadas (80 concedidas) que aprimoram os recursos de ADAS e AD. A percepção de veículos é fundamental para tornar a mobilidade global mais segura, eficiente, sustentável e acessível: e é por isso que a LeddarTech deseja se tornar a solução de software de fusão e percepção de sensores mais amplamente adotada.

Para mais informação sobre a LeddarTech, visite www.LeddarTech.com, LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook e YouTube.

Sobre a Prospector Capital Corp.

A Prospector é uma empresa de aquisição com finalidade especial criada com a finalidade de realizar fusão, troca de ações, aquisição de ativos, compra de ações, reorganização ou fusão de empresas semelhante com uma ou mais empresas, com foco em empresas com soluções avançadas e altamente diferenciadas para o setor de tecnologia. A empresa é liderada por uma equipe de investidores e executivos experientes focados em identificar e investir em empresas de alto crescimento, com equipes de gerenciamento fortes e oportunidades de mercado atraentes. Os títulos da Prospector são negociados na NASDAQ sob os símbolos “PRSR”, “PRSRU” e “PRSRW”.

Informações Importantes Sobre a Transação Proposta e Onde Encontrá-la

Em conexão com a proposta fusão das empresas, a Prospector, a LeddarTech e a Newco irão preparar e protocolar a Declaração de Registro na SEC no Formulário F-4 (a “Declaração de Registro”), e a Prospector irá enviar as procurações/prospecto da Declaração de Registro para seus acionistas e protocolar outros documentos sobre a fusão da empresa na SEC. Este comunicado à imprensa não substitui nenhuma procuração, declaração de registro, declaração/prospecto de procuração ou outros documentos que a Prospector ou a Newco possam protocolar na SEC em conexão com a fusão das empresas. OS INVESTIDORES E DETENTORES DE VALORES MOBILIÁRIOS DEVEM LER ATENTAMENTE E NA ÍNTEGRA A DECLARAÇÃO DE REGISTRO QUANDO DISPONÍVEL, QUAISQUER ALTERAÇÕES OU SUPLEMENTOS À DECLARAÇÃO DE REGISTRO E OUTROS DOCUMENTOS PROTOCOLADOS PELO PROSPECTOR OU PELA NEWCO NA SEC EM CONEXÃO COM A FUSÃO DA EMPRESA PORQUE ESSES DOCUMENTOS CONTERÃO INFORMAÇÕES IMPORTANTES. Investidores e detentores de valores mobiliários poderão obter cópias gratuitas da Declaração de Registro e outros documentos protocolados na SEC pela Prospector ou pela Newco no website da SEC em www.sec.gov.

Declarações de Previsão

Certas declarações contidas neste comunicado de imprensa podem ser consideradas declarações de previsão na acepção da Lei de Reforma de Litígios de Títulos Privados dos EUA de 1995, Seção 27A da Lei de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários e Seção 21E da Lei de Câmbio (cujas declarações de previsão também devem incluir declarações de previsão e informações de previsão na acepção das leis de valores mobiliários canadenses aplicáveis), incluindo, mas não se limitando a, declarações sobre a fusão de empresas envolvendo a Prospector, a LeddarTech e a Newco, a capacidade de concluir a fusão das empresas e a sua ocasião, os benefícios previstos da fusão das empresas, o fechamento do financiamento de colocação privada, as receitas e declarações previstas relacionadas à estratégia antecipada da Newco, operações futuras, perspectivas, objetivos e projeções financeiras e outras métricas financeiras. As declarações de previsão geralmente incluem declarações de natureza preditiva e dependem ou se referem a eventos ou condições futuras, e incluem palavras como “pode”, “irá”, “deveria”, “esperaria”, “antecipa”, “planeja”, “provável”, “acredita”, “estima”, “projeta”, “pretende e outras expressões semelhantes, entre outras. Declarações que não sejam de fatos históricos são declarações de previsão. Declarações de previsão tomam por base convicções e suposições atuais sujeitas a riscos e incertezas e não são garantias de desempenho futuro. Os resultados reais podem ser substancialmente diferentes dos resultados contidos em qualquer declaração de previsão devido a vários fatores, incluindo, sem limitação: (i) o risco de que as condições para o fechamento da fusão das empresas não sejam satisfeitas, incluindo a falha em obter a aprovação dos acionistas em tempo hábil ou obter a aprovação dos acionistas para a fusão das empresas ou a falha em obter quaisquer autorizações regulatórias necessárias e em tempo hábil, incluindo do Superior Tribunal de Justiça do Quebec; (ii) incertezas quanto ao momento da consumação da fusão das empresas e a capacidade da Prospector, da LeddarTech e da Newco de concluir a fusão das empresas; (iii) a possibilidade de que outros benefícios antecipados da fusão das empresas não sejam realizados e o tratamento fiscal antecipado da fusão das empresas; (iv) a ocorrência de qualquer evento que possa dar origem à rescisão da fusão das empresas; (v) o risco de que o litígio dos acionistas em conexão com a fusão das empresas ou outros acordos ou investigações possa afetar o momento ou a ocorrência da fusão das empresas ou resultar em custos significativos de defesa, indenização e responsabilidade; (vi) mudanças gerais na economia e/ou condições específicas do setor; (vii) possíveis interrupções da fusão das empresas que poderiam prejudicar os negócios da LeddarTech; (viii) a capacidade da LeddarTech de reter, atrair e contratar pessoal-chave; (ix) possíveis reações adversas ou mudanças nas relações com clientes, funcionários, fornecedores ou outras partes resultantes do anúncio ou conclusão da fusão das empresas; (x) potencial incerteza nos negócios, incluindo mudanças nas relações comerciais existentes durante a pendência da fusão das empresas que possam afetar o desempenho financeiro da LeddarTech; (xi) desenvolvimentos legislativos, regulatórios e econômicos; (xii) imprevisibilidade e gravidade de eventos catastróficos, incluindo, mas não se limitando a, atos de terrorismo, eclosão de guerra ou hostilidades, e qualquer epidemia, pandemia ou surto de doença (incluindo COVID-19), bem como a resposta da administração a qualquer um dos fatores mencionados acima; (xiii) acesso a capital e financiamentos e a capacidade da LeddarTech estar em conformidade com os acordos de dívidas; e (xiv) outros fatores de risco, detalhados ocasionalmente nos relatórios da Prospector protocolados na SEC, incluindo o Relatório Anual da Prospector no Formulário 10-K, Relatórios Trimestrais periódicos no Formulário 10-Q, Relatórios Atuais periódicos no Formulário 8-K e outros documentos protocolados na SEC, bem como os fatores de risco mencionados da Declaração de Registro. A lista anterior de fatores importantes não é exaustiva. Nem a Prospector nem a LeddarTech podem dar qualquer garantia de que as condições para a fusão das empresas serão satisfeitas. Exceto conforme exigido pela lei aplicável, nem a Prospector nem a LeddarTech assumem qualquer obrigação de revisar ou atualizar qualquer declaração de previsão, ou de fazer quaisquer outras declarações de previsão, seja como resultado de novas informações, eventos futuros ou de outra forma.

Sem Oferta ou Solicitação

Este comunicado à imprensa não constitui uma oferta de venda nem uma solicitação de uma oferta de compra de qualquer título mobiliário da Prospector ou da Newco, uma solicitação de qualquer voto ou aprovação, nem deverá haver qualquer venda desses valores mobiliários em qualquer estado ou outra jurisdição onde tal oferta, venda ou solicitação seja ilegal antes do registro ou qualificação sob as leis de valores mobiliários de qualquer estado ou jurisdição. Nenhuma oferta de valores mobiliários será feita, exceto por meio de um prospecto que atenda aos requisitos da Seção 10 da Lei de Valores Mobiliários de 1933, alterada (Lei de Valores Mobiliários).

Participantes da Solicitação

A Prospector, a LeddarTech, a Newco, e alguns dos seus respectivos diretores, executivos e funcionários, podem ser considerados participantes da solicitação de procurações em conexão com a fusão das empresas. Informações sobre os diretores e diretores executivos da Prospector podem ser encontradas no Relatório Anual no Formulário 10-K do exercício fiscal encerrado em 31 de dezembro de 2022, protocolado na SEC em 31 de março de 2023. As informações sobre as pessoas que podem, de acordo com as regras da SEC, ser consideradas participantes na solicitação de procurações em conexão com a fusão das empresas, incluindo uma descrição dos seus interesses diretos ou indiretos, por participações em títulos ou de outra forma, serão incluídas na Declaração de Registro e outros materiais relevantes quando protocolados na SEC. Esses documentos podem ser obtidos gratuitamente na fonte indicada acima.

Contato:
Daniel Aitken, Vice-Presidente, Marketing Global, Comunicações e Relacionamento com o Investidor, LeddarTech Inc. Tel.: + 1-418-653-9000 ramal 232 daniel.aitken@LeddarTech.com

Os logotipos Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision e afins são marcas comerciais ou marcas comerciais registradas da LeddarTech Inc. e suas subsidiárias. Todas as outras marcas e nomes de produtos são ou podem ser marcas comerciais ou marcas comerciais registradas usadas para identificar produtos ou serviços de seus respectivos proprietários.

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8970829

Posted on

Health Ministry launches national surgical and infection action plans

WINDHOEK: The Ministry of Health and Social Services, along with its regional and national partners, officially launched the National Surgical Obstetric and Anaesthesia Plan (NSOAP) in Windhoek on Thursday.

The ministry also unveiled the Infection Prevention and Control Action Plan (IPC) and the Revised Guidelines for IPC, Operation Theatre, and Central Sterile Services Departments (CSSD).

Minister of Health and Social Services, Kalumbi Shangula, in his statement availed to the media, said the NSOAP is designed to address challenges and shortcomings related to the provision of safe surgical, obstetric, and anaesthesia healthcare services. These challenges were compounded by the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The NSOAP addresses six vital health system domains – surgical infrastructure and equipment, surgical service delivery, surgical workforce, surgical information management, surgical financing, and surgical system governance,” the minister said.

Shangula however said there is still much work to be done as factors such as population growth, dispersed rural populations, and other public health priorities have placed significant pressure on the capacity to deliver equitable, high-quality emergency care, surgical obstetric, and anaesthesia services to those in need.

He said to ensure the successful implementation of the NSOAP, the Health Ministry, with support from its health partners, will allocate the necessary resources. Shangula stated that the ministry is committed to actively monitoring and evaluating the implementation process, engaging all stakeholders and partners in a continuous effort to achieve the goal of universal health coverage for all Namibians.

Shangula also explained that the IPC Action Plan addresses the challenges faced by the ministry in preventing and controlling healthcare-associated infections. The plan is informed by the World Health Organisation IPC Assessment Tool, which is designed to implement evidence-based interventions in healthcare settings. It aims to enhance IPC education and training for healthcare workers, improve surveillance and reporting systems for healthcare-associated infections, and elevate the monitoring and evaluation of IPC activities.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency

Posted on

Entrepreneurs urged to know their role in sustainability

SWAKOPMUND: The Governor of Erongo Region Neville Andre Itope has urged entrepreneurs to recognise the role they can play in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future.

According to Itope in a speech delivered on his behalf, by integrating sustainability and social responsibility into their business models, a collective effort can be made to create impact and drive positive change in communities.

“In doing so, we can build resilient enterprises that not only generate profits, but also contribute to the well-being of society and the planet,” he expressed.

The governor made these remarks at the official opening of the Know to Grow, Next Generation (K2G NextGen) Entrepreneurs Showcase 2023 on Thursday, an initiative by the Namibian Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) and sponsored by Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) Namibia.

The K2G NextGen Entrepreneurs aims to empower youth and women owned Micro, Small and Medium Entreprises (MSMEs), deliberately creating opportunities that enhance market access and capacity building opportunities for these businesses, thus enabling them to contribute towards generating economic activities in the country.

NIPDB’s Executive Director for MSME Development, Innovation and Acceleration, Dino Balloti, explained that the showcase is supposed to provide a platform for entrepreneurs to tell stories of their businesses, engage with like-minded individuals, as well as learn from them for the benefit of their businesses.

“Entrepreneurs are the people that stimulate our economy and most social ills can be solved through entrepreneurship. Therefore, the goal of this showcase is really for us to help them scale up their businesses,” he said.

CCBA Namibia Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Director, Enid Johr, noted that the company partnered with the NIPDB on the showcase because it knows that the role MSMEs play within an economy cannot be over-emphasised.

“MSMEs have the potential to create employment and contribute to economic growth of a country and this year’s theme, ‘Sustaining communities, unlocking growth, and promoting inclusivity’, underpins our decision to partner with NIPDB on this project.

The three-day showcase has gathered over 45 Namibian MSMEs to display their products and services, while connecting with business support organisations such as Team Namibia, amongst others.

Participants are exhibiting various products and services ranging from agriculture, manufacturing, information communication technology and renewable energy.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency

Posted on

Defeating Chula Chula is only a start to a big process: Coach Luis

WINDHOEK: Rundu-based Julinho Sporting Football Club (FC) Head Coach, Nelson Luis, highlighted the significance of hard work in order to win football matches against Debmarine Namibia Premiership opponents.

Luis who recently ended newly promoted fan favourite Eeshoke Chula Chula FC’s winning streak on Wednesday said his team works as a unit, has game plans, and is motivated to win.

“We are not in a bad position as it looks because we still have games in hand to play,” said Luis.

Julinho Sporting FC, or the ‘Rundu Lions,’ as they are affectionately known, have only lost two games this season and have four clean sheets out of six games played.

The team is high in spirits as they prepare to face third-placed African Stars FC in their round eight match, on Saturday at the Rundu Sport Stadium, Kavango-East region, at 16h00.

However, Julinho FC defensive midfielder and captain Xoagub Alfons will be unavailable for the weekend games due to a pre-season injury. Central midfielder Jessy Nanyemba will also miss the games due to injury.

Coach Luis added, “Supporters should expect a team that is ready to win and make them happy. Julinho FC strives to show the fans that they are valuable and that the team is worthy”.

He further thanked all the supporters for coming to support the team’s victory in their previous clash against Chula Chula and urged them to come again.

Julinho will take on a struggling Orlando Pirates FC at Rundu Sports Stadium on Sunday at 14h00 for their round nine fixture.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency

Posted on

NSA announces official conclusion of enumeration process

WINDHOEK: Namibia Statistics Agency, Statistician-General, Alex Shimuafeni on Thursday announced that the enumeration of persons will officially conclude on Sunday, 05 November 2023.

Shimuafeni in a media statement said that all persons who spent the night of 24 September this year in Namibia but have not been enumerated should contact NSA offices across the country for appointments to be enumerated in an effort to ensure everyone is counted.

“The data collected during this census is not just a collection of numbers, it is the collective voice of our nation. It will guide the allocation of resources, inform government policies, and help address the diverse needs of our communities while ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.

Furthermore, in the upcoming months, the NSA team will be rigorously processing and analysing the census data to ensure its completeness and accuracy. The result of this monumental effort will be made available to the public and will serve as a vital resource for years to come, Shimuafeni noted.

The NSA, he said is aware of the delay of the salary portion of the enumerators which was supposed to be paid on 31 October 2023, and the delay is due to the fact that the NSA is busy with multiple verifications that include; verification of each and every tablet that was used by each of the 13 000 enumerators, verification of absenteeism, avoidance of duplicate payments and disciplinary matters.

“The NSA has started with the payment processes whereby the first batch of payments will be made next week. We are also working on how we can fast track the payment process and also to improve these processes being forward,” he said.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency

Posted on

FG commends firm for donating cash rewards to children for heroic acts

The Federal Government on Thursday commended Dufil Prima Foods Limited for rewarding three outstanding children for reporting baby sale, sexual molestation and pregnancy on a minor.

Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, Minister of Women Affairs, gave the commendation in a statement signed by Mrs Grace Njoku, Head, Press and Public Relations in Abuja.

Kennedy-Ohanenye, said the children were rewarded with one million naira by the company for their social, physical and intellectual bravery, which impacted positively on the lives of people.

“The recipients of the 2023 Edition of the Dufil Prima Foods Limited Awards ceremony include Helen Emmanuel from Ikot Usong, Akwa Ibom State for Social Bravery Award for standing up and fighting for a 13-year-old girl that was molested and impregnated by her father.

” Also, Happiness Bassey, also from Ikot Usong, was awarded the Physical Bravery Award for stopping her mother from selling her younger brother.

” While Ferdinand Maumo, from Makoko, Lagos State, a differently-abled child with spastic cerebral palsy, was conferred with the Intellectual Bravery Award for demonstrating an exceptional understanding of Chess through pattern recognition,” she said.

The minister, while commending Dufil Prima Foods for their consistency in recognising exceptional Nigerian children since 2008, urged other philanthropists to emulate the gesture in the development of the Nigerian child.

She said: ” The award is worthy of emulation, as it is capable of spurring other children in the country.

” Not only in heroic acts but also in developing social consciousness about acceptable norms and values that shape the culture, religious, ethnic and diversity of the Nigerian people.”

She reiterated the commitment of the government to the welfare and the development of the Nigerian child, women and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the society, to give them a sense of belonging.

“We will continue to collaborate and join hands with relevant stakeholders towards the realisation of this policy objective of the government,” she said.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Posted on

Senate approves 2023 N2.17trn Supplementary Appropriation Bill

The Senate has passed the 2023 Supplementary Appropriation Bill of N2.17trillion.

President Bola Tinubu had written the Senate seeking the approval of the sum of N2,176,791,286,033 as 2023 supplementary budget to address labour wage adjustments, security and other urgent issues.

The President had also sent the 2024-2026 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) to the Senate for consideration.

The passage of the bill followed the presentation, consideration and approval of report of Senate Committee on Appropriation at plenary on Thursday by the Chairman of the Committee, Sen. Solomon Adeola (APC-Ogun).

Adeola ,in his presentation ,said the committee received inputs from the leadership of the relevant sub-committee and heads of MDAs provided for in the supplementary bill.

He said the committee considered the detailed provisions of the bill and inputs received from the heads of the benefiting MDAs and the leadership of the corresponding sub-committee in the senate.

Adeola gave breakdown of the approval as follows: N18billion is for statutory transfers only,N1.33trilion for recurrent non -debt expenditure, while N1.125trillion only is for contribution to development fund for capital expenditures for the year ending December 31,2023.

A breakdown of sectoral allocations and MDAs is as follows:

INEC, 18Billion; Defence, N346.1billion; police formations and commands,N29.6 billion; Office of the National Security Adviser N39.6 billion.

Others are Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, N103 billion; Service wide vote ,N515 billion;

State House N28 billion; Ministry of defence, N200 billion; police formations and commands, N20.3 billion

Others are Office of the National Security Adviser, N10.3 billion; Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food security N97 billion; Federal Ministry of Works, N300 billion; Federal Capital Territory Administration, N100 billion; Capital Supplementation N220.5 billion.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Posted on

Entrepreneur urges Nigerian investors to leverage opportunities in the U.S.

Mr Fife Banks, an entrepreneur, has urged Nigerian investors to leverage the opportunities that the United States provides through its Employment Based (EB) platform.

Banks, who is the Managing Partner, BraveICONS Global, made the call at the EB-5 Information series 2023 Abuja Investors Brunch in Abuja on Thursday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by the company in collaboration with the Invest in USA(IIUSA) and the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI).

According to Banks, this is investment immigration and not” japa”, which provides you with an opportunity to own a second citizenship in the US.

‘

‘The IIUSA is an association of Regional Centers that offer the EB-5 offer for the United States; we represent these guys, but we are more particular about the Nigerian investor.

‘

‘We want them to be fully informed and we guide them through the process to ensure that they make the most off their investment.

‘

‘They get their capital back, because that is what the legislation says. It is not like those investments that your money goes down the drain.

‘

” This programme started by an Act of Parliament; the US Congress signed the programme into law in 1990.It is standing the test of time and a lot of Nigerians have benefited from it,” he said.

Banks called for the enhancement of Nigeria’s citizenship for investment programme, to make it more attractive to potential investors to come in and boost the economy.

‘

‘We have our own citizenship by investment. What we haven’t done is to enhance that programme so it is attractive to non Nigerians, to want to become Nigerians through investment.

”This is something we must do, and I’m hoping that the government will have listening ears when we come calling to help structure Nigerian citizenship by investment programme.

According to him, being a permanent resident in America through this investment route is 800,000 dollars with a clear pathway of getting your capital back.

“’Whereas, to be a Nigerian is a million dollars, which means that it is even costlier to be a Nigerian by investment, but the structure is not yet there.

”This is something we can leverage to bring in finance and investment and economic development into Nigeria when we make our own citizenship by investment very attractive to non- Nigerians,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr Aaron Grau, Executive Director, IIUSA, said the essence of the programme was to educate Nigerian investors on the investment opportunities in the US.

”It is not something that you just dive into and believe everything will fall into place, there are a lot of details.

”And the purpose of our being here is to begin to explain the details, so again, the purpose of this programme is for education, especially as it pertains to engaging in the EB-5 process,” Grau said.

The executive director therefore urged the investors to ensure due diligence before engaging in any form of investment process.

He said:”but in order for your immigration process to be complete, and in order for you to satisfy the requirements set by the United States and your immigration process.

”Your investment must create at least 10 U.S. jobs. So the nature of your investment is very much tied to the requirements of immigration.

”Which is why we are here to try to explain this and untangle it for you and prompt you to ask the necessary questions,” he added.

Earlier, Ms Zoe Wollenschlaegar, the Global EB5 Manager, Meyer Law Group, said EB was one of the employment bases one could use to immigrate to the United States.

”It is an opportunity for foreign investors to invest a certain amount into an economic development opportunity in the United States.

”And in return for this is a pathway to permanent residency and eventually citizenship in the US,” Wollenschlaegar said.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Posted on

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan sworn in as Kogi-Central Senator

Sen. Natasha Akpoti- Uduaghan (PDP- Kogi) on Thursday took the oath of office and allegiance as senator representing Kogi-Central at the National Assembly.

The Clerk of the Senate, Mr Chinedu Akubueze, administered the oath on Akpoti-Uduaghan.

This followed the judgement of the Appeal Court which declared her as the winner of the Feb. 26 poll.

The three-member panel, in a judgment, upheld the judgment of the state’s election petitions tribunal and dismissed the appeal filed by Sen Abubakar Ohere of the APC.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Posted on

Cyber bullying: Court remands Bayelsa blogger in Kuje correction facility

The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Thursday, ordered the remand of a Bayelsa Blogger, Mr Saint Onitsha Mienpamo, in Kuje Correctional Centre following his arraignment on alleged cyber bullying.

He was arraigned for allegations bordering on defamatory publications against the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Major General Barry Ndiomu (Rtd).

Justice Emeka Nwite, in a ruling after Mienpamo took his plea, directed the defendant to be remanded in the correctional centre until Dec. 4 when the trial would commence.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that while the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police is the complainant in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/492/23, Mienpamo is the sole defendant in the application dated Oct. 13 and filed on Oct. 16.

Mienpamo, who operates a blog, Naijalivetv.com, is standing trial on three-count charge bordering on alleged willful libel, threat, causing danger and insult against the PAP interim administrator.

When the case was called, the prosecution counsel, N.O. Eleodimio, told the court that the matter was slated for plea and that they were ready to proceed.

Mienpamo, however, pleaded not guilty to all the counts after they were read to him.

His lawyer, Terungwa Ananbe, told the court that a bail application had been filed on Mienpamo’s behalf.

But Justice Nwite said the application was not in the court records, hence, he cannot hear an application that he had not seen.

The judge consequently adjourned the matter until Dec. 4 for trial.

Mienpamo, the self-acclaimed ex-agitator, in one of the counts, is accused of sending a message/post by means of computer system network via his Facebook page ‘Mienpamo Onitsha Saint’ which he knew to be false for the purpose of causing annoyance, inconvenience, danger, insult, injury, criminal intimidation, ill-will and needless anxiety to Maj-Gen. Ndiomu (Retd).

The offence is punishable under Section 24 (1) (b) of the cyber crime (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act 2015.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Posted on

Court acquits Chinese directors of alleged forgery

A Federal High Court, Abuja has discharged and acquitted two Chinese; Hao Aijun and Liu Yangxi, and a Nigerian, Obi Anthony-Chibuzor, who were charged with conspiracy, forgery and fraud.

Justice Nnamdi Dimgba, in a judgment, upheld the arguments of the lawyer to Hao and Liu , Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, and counsel to Chibuzor, Anozie Obi, that the prosecution, represented by M. O. Omosun, failed to prove its case.

According to Justice Dimgba, from the totality of the evidence given in this case, most especially the testimony of the 1st prosecution witness (PW1), PW2 and PW5, none of their testimony has been able to link the defendants with any act of forgery.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the defendants, who were directors of BN Ceramics Industry Nigeria Limited, were accused among others, of forging the company’s board’s resolutions.

A 13-count charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/77/2017 was preferred against them by the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police.

At their arraignment, they pleaded not guilty, following which the trial was conducted and the defendants made a no-case submission, which was partially upheld by Justice Dimgba.

The development led to the striking out of eight out of the 13-count charge against them.

The defendants subsequently entered defence in relation to the remaining five counts.

Delivering the judgment, Justice Dimgba discharged and acquitted them on the five counts.

Justice Dimgba upheld the arguments of counsel for the defendants that the prosecution failed to prove its case.

“Even the testimony of the handwriting experts and the reports of their findings, as manifested in Exhibits HA4, HA5, HA11 and HA13, did not link the defendants to the document, the signature of the PW1 said to have been forged,” he said.

The judge added that the prosecution failed to call necessary witnesses, who would have supplied vital evidence.

“Consequent on the above, I hereby find the defendants not guilty of the charges preferred against them.

“I hold that the prosecution has failed to prove the offence of conspiracy against the defendants by the standard required by law, which is beyond reasonable doubt,” he declared.

NAN reports that the police had filed the charge upon a complaint by one of BN Ceramics’ directors, Zhang Xing, following a boardroom disagreement.

In an earlier judgment, Justice Donatus Okorowo of FHC stuck out the civil suit, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/606/2016 filed against other directors of BN Ceramics by Xing.

Listed as defendants in the suit were: BN Ceramics, Hao, Chen Enlai, Liu Yangxi, Zhang Qide and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

Justice Okorowo held that the suit was incompetent and that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear it, the plaintiff having failed to comply with the condition precedent to initiating such an action.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Posted on

African descents in diaspora inaugurate union in Nigeria

African descents in the diaspora on Thursday formally inaugurated the African Diaspora Union (AFRIDU-NIGERIA) as a unifying platform.

The union which was inaugurated by the President-General of the group, Archbishop Chidiebere Ogbu, is aimed at ensuring unity, empowerment, and progress of all members as well as providing a strong voice for African descents in the diaspora.

Speaking during an international conference of African Descents in Diaspora and the Launch of AFRIDU-NIGERIA, in Abuja, Ogbu said the inauguration of the union marked the beginning of the actions that needed to be taken in furtherance of the objectives of the group.

He said it was in recognition of the diverse cultures and languages of the African people all over the world, the diverse historical facts of all the African and black people all over the world, that AFRIDU adopted the Tripod Stand of Integration of the Diaspora.

(This relates to) “Those African Diasporas who wish to return to their motherland Africa and become part of Africa and participate in every endeavor as Africans with full rights of African citizenship.

“Those African Diasporas who believe in investing in Africa and become part of the African businesses and economy.

“Those who wish to identify themselves with the African culture and inheritance through their genealogy with intention of participation in all African affairs, but not having the intention of returning back to Africa their motherland.

“As part of our vision to actualise the dreams and aspirations of the Africans in Diaspora 6th Region, AFRIDU appointed special envoys, ambassadors to Continents and regions, Diplomatic Administrators over countries, and Directors in different departments without distinction of Creed, Race, Religion, Politics,” he said.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of AFRIDU-NIGERIA’s Board of Trustees (BOT), King Alfred Diete Spiff said the conference was organised to celebrate “our rich heritage from arts to science and to politics.”

He described the establishment of the union as a significant development that will ensure unite African descents regardless of their individual differences and enable them to speak with a strong voice for the empowerment and progress of the members.

The traditional leader urged the gathering to remember that whereas the challenges before the country were numerous, the opportunities available were countless.

He added that the success of AFRIDU-NIGERIA will depend on the collaborative efforts of stakeholders.

Spiff expressed the belief that “together we can make it a success toward a better future with a renewed sense of unity and focus.

Also speaking much earlier, AFRIDU-NIGERIA’s Diplomatic Administrator, Dr Onwubuya Breakforth said the union”foresees a united and thriving global network for Africans in diaspora where cultural richness is embraced, economic, social, and educational opportunities are maximised.

“And the collective strength of our diverse heritage propels us toward a brighter future.”

Onwubuya said that with the inauguration of the union, AFRIDU-NIGERIA would implement various programmes such as establishing Diaspora Memorial City as a resource hub to assist new comers in Nigeria with integration, legal matters, and cultural orientation.

He said the union would provide scholarships to African diaspora students in Nigeria to foster academic growth.

He added that among things, the union would organise festivals to celebrate African traditions, music, art, and cuisine.

According to him, AFRIDU-NIGERIA would offer business and entrepreneurship support by offering guidance and resources for diaspora members interested in starting or growing businesses in Nigeria.

“The launch of AFRIDU-NIGERIA signifies a major breakthrough for the continent. Descents taken away into slavery are willing to return home.

“Nigeria is acting the big brother role and is taking the lead to encourage them to come back home and help lift Africa out of the situation it is in,” he said.

Dr Moriel Mcclerklin, AFRIDU Ambassador to the U.S. and Canada, who addressed the gathering described Nigeria as the power centre of Africa.

Mcclerklin said African descents in the diaspora “have gained great substance, spiritual vitality, and material endowment to be in a position to desire to return to Africa and contribute to its greatness.

“We seek nationhood and citizenship. We do not seek to return as foreign investors. If it is my money only that you seek, then I would better off staying back in the United States.

“Reunion with our African kindred is what we seek. We need to restore nationhood to the millions of Africans that were taken away into slavery to foreign lands.

“The destiny of Nigeria is their destiny as well. We believe that if Nigeria takes the lead in Africa the others will follow.

“Nigeria must take the lead in ushering in a new era – an era of renaissance.”

Another speaker, Dr Barryl Bietman, the AFRIDU Ambassador to Europe and who is based in the Netherlands, described the launch of the union as a timely and significant development in the history of Africa.

Bietman congratulated the leadership of the union for coming up with the initiative saying that the success of AFRIDU could not be separated from the concept and history of African civilization.

She maintained that no amount of money could serve as proper compensation for the experience Africa was forced to pass through during slavery and slave trade.

“No amount of money can repair the damage made to the mind and spirit of the African. We need reparation of the African mind and spirit.

“And no one can do that for us. We are the ones that can do it – by ourselves. What we need is self-reparation.

The African Diaspora Union is a civil society and Pan African Organisation founded in South Africa in 2018

It is established in all the continents and the global regions with a view to integrating diaspora Africans into Africa in the spirit of brotherhood (Ubuntu).

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Posted on

ICRC trains 27 journalists on first aid treatment in Adamawa

International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has trained 27 journalists in Adamawa on effective first aid treatment for prospective casualties.

Speaking at the opening of the three-day training in Yola on Thursday, Communication Field Officer of the organisation, Mr Lemdi Edmond, took the participants through the genesis of first aid treatment to its present state.

According to Edmond, ICRC intervenes basically in crises involving arm conflicts translating into man-made or unnatural disasters.

He said that while the International Federation of the Red Cross intervened in the area of natural disasters, such as flood and earthquake, the National Red Cross Societies handle both natural and man-made situations.

Edmond identified the principles of the committee to include: humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence, among others.

On their parts, the First Aid and Pre-hospital Care Field Office in Yola and Abjua respectively, Charity Maxwell and Daniel Ebodor jointly exposed the participants to the meaning, relevance and significance of first aid.

The resource persons maintained that first aid was aimed at saving life, preventing conditions from further deteriorating and promoting speedy recovery.

They identified truthfulness, sympathy, resourcefulness, tolerance and empathy, among others, as qualities of a good first aider.

The resource persons also enumerated and extensively explained the primary survey variables relating to first aid, such as: danger, response, airway, breathing and chest compression.

Mr Philip Atanga, one of the participants, expressed appreciation to ICRC for the training.

Atanga said that the training had exposed him to the methods of providing humanitarian services, aside the journalism duties.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the participants were engaged in first aid treatment practical on burns, fainting, fracture and bleeding, among others.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria