Category: Business

Fidelity Bank, Ghana’s largest privately-owned bank, has held its inaugural Stakeholder Workshop as well as the Orange Summit, to address critical needs in sustainability and young entrepreneur development.

These events are in line with the bank’s commitment to a brighter future for Ghana through impactful initiatives on two key fronts-fostering sustainable development and empowering young entrepreneurs.

Held at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, the maiden Stakeholder Workshop assembled a diverse array of participants, including development partners, NGOs, embassies and civil society organisations.

The gathering aimed to foster collaboration among stakeholders, providing a platform to explore joint initiatives that advance shared sustainability objectives.

‘The workshop sought to align efforts towards realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), tackling global challenges, and establishing enduring partnerships with lasting impact,’ the bank said in a news brief.

The workshop featured presentations
showcasing Fidelity Bank’s sustainability initiatives across various sectors such as health, economic empowerment, sanitation (WASH), education, food security, and the environment, with a focus on Sustainable Finance, Sustainable Operations, SME development, inclusive banking, financial literacy, access to education, economic empowerment, climate change mitigation and philanthropic activities.

In his opening remarks, Atta Yeboah Gyan, the Deputy Managing Director of Fidelity Bank, highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration in driving sustainable development, adding that, there should be collective efforts to address environmental challenges and foster a legacy of positive impact.

There were breakout sessions that facilitated in-depth discussions on specific themes, allowing stakeholders to identify areas for potential collaboration.

The session also laid the groundwork for future partnerships, built on trust, transparency, and a shared commitment to sustainability.

The workshop attracted esteem
ed organisations like Impact Investing Ghana, UN Global Compact, GIZ, Star Ghana, the Embassy of Switzerland, the National Commission for Civic Education, the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, and World Vision, among others, demonstrating the breadth of commitment to achieving a sustainable future.

Fidelity Bank further solidified its commitment to Ghana’s future by hosting its first Orange Summit of 2024 at the Sunlodge Hotel, Accra.

The event, a cornerstone of the Fidelity Young Entrepreneurs Initiative, provided young entrepreneurs with valuable insights and skills that extend far beyond just financial assistance.

The summit provided participants with valuable insights from a distinguished panel of speakers from key regulatory bodies and industry experts.

Highlights of the summit included keynote addresses from Mr. Ebenezer Kofi Essel, Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Mr. Lawrence Hotsonyame, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Divine Kutortse, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and Mr. Banda
Abdallah, Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA).

‘Mr. Edward Effah, Fidelity Bank’s founder, provided a particularly inspiring keynote address, sharing his entrepreneurial journey and offering valuable lessons to the young audience,’ the bank noted, adding that, ‘the summit also facilitated connections between Young Entrepreneurs and new project partners like GEN, Growth Africa, and Stanford Seed.’

Several participants at the Orange Summit also echoed Fidelity Bank’s commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs, the news brief indicated.

Adolf Kwame Acquah, CEO of Madolf Ventures, praised the bank’s support, stating, ‘Fidelity Bank has been instrumental in my entrepreneurial journey. From the Fidelity Young Entrepreneur Fund to the Orange Summit, their support has been exceptional.’

He particularly highlighted the value of Mr. Effah’s keynote address, calling it ‘even more than an MBA.’

Bright Ofori, CEO of OB Corporate Services and Manufacturing Industry, shared a similar sentiment.

He emphasised the
comprehensive guidance and connections facilitated by the Fidelity Young Entrepreneur Fund, particularly regarding government agencies crucial for growth.

Mr. Ofori also expressed excitement about the AfCFTA opportunities presented at the summit.

Nana Yaa Afriyie Ofori-Koree, Head of Partnerships, Sustainability, and CSR at Fidelity Bank, emphasised the Orange Summit’s significance as a step forward in the bank’s commitment to holistic young entrepreneur development.

‘While financial support is crucial, we believe in empowering our Fidelity Young Entrepreneurs Fund beneficiaries with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive. Through comprehensive training and capacity-building initiatives, we equip them to navigate the complexities of the entrepreneurial landscape, ensuring their long-term success and fostering responsible business practices,’ she said.

Fidelity Bank’s commitment to both Sustainability and Entrepreneurial empowerment demonstrates a highly invested approach to the socio-economic growth
of Ghana’s future.

The strategic collaborations with key stakeholders and targeted support for young entrepreneurs solidify their position as a driving force for positive change. These initiatives pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous Ghana.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Dr George Agyekum Donkor, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) has called on business leaders to position themselves to adapt to any future eventualities, drawing from recent global events.

He reiterated that future-ready organisations were engineered by transformational leaders, who deliberately review and repurpose every aspect of the organisational structure and processes to be ready for challenges now and in the future.

‘The character of the leader is fundamental for organisational future-readiness. The leader’s vision, convictions, motivation, and direction influence the strategic direction of the organisation,’ Dr Donkor said on Wednesday.

He was speaking at the Future Ready Leadership Summit organised by the Nobel Business International School (NIBS) in Accra.

‘In effect, future-ready organisations are led by future-ready leaders. Leaders with a strong conviction that things will not always remain the same. Leaders who believe in
the constancy of change and prepare themselves against the ramifications of change, while capitalising on the positives.’

Speaking on the topic, ‘Re-Imagining Business Leadership: Building A Future Ready Organisation, Dr Donkor said the back-to-back external shocks, that started with the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by the war in Ukraine and the recent one in Gaza, as well as domestic shocks have shaken the very foundations of most businesses across the globe.

‘The supply chain disruptions fuelled inflation that ensued particularly from the pandemic and the war in Ukraine led to food and energy price hikes unprecedented since 2008,’ he said.

‘As if that was not enough, the global monetary hikes triggered a surge in the cost of borrowing thereby increasing the financial and operating costs of several businesses.’

He underscored the need for a two-pronged approach to future-readiness, which entails anticipation of future scenarios and the incorporation of a high level of flexibility into a company’s organisa
tional structure to facilitate timely reactions.

He called on businesses to invest in enhancing their compliance with Environmental Social Governance (ESG) requirements, which are essential for today’s financial market, while proactively using technology to improve their operations.

Underscoring the intentionality required to be ready for challenges both now and in the future, Dr Donkor explained that ‘it takes a transformational leader to drive an organisation into a state of being future-ready.’

The NIBS is the foremost African Doctoral Institution that offers top accredited degree programmes in partnership with prestigious international Universities namely SBS Swiss Business School, Zurich, Switzerland, and IPAG Business School, France.

Professor Kwaku Atuahene-Gima, Founder and President of NIBS, said the NIBS was the first school in the world to start with a doctorate degree programme.

He said so far, they had over 200 doctorates that they had created, not developed.

Source: Ghana News Agency

A newly constructed hotel facility, Sweet Home Hotel, located in Gbawe Bulemin, Greater Accra Region, has been unveiled with the primary goal of boosting Ghana’s tourism industry and creating employment opportunities for the youth.

At the launch of its operations, Mr Alexander Owusu-Fordjour, the Managing Director of Sweet Home Hotel, said the facility was more than just a lodging establishment.

He said it was in line with the country’s agenda of promoting sustainable tourism that includes cultural, heritage, recreational, adventure and event tourism. Mr Owusu-Fordjour described the facility as a symbol of luxury, sophistication, and outstanding hospitality intended to draw in visitors from both local and international quarters, to boost Ghana’s tourism sector which recorded more than 900,000 visitors yearly before COVID-19.

Again, the establishment was aiming at making significant contributions to the country’s hospitality industry, which would enhance its tourism experiences.

He said the company was com
mitted to delivering quality services and pursuing sustainable practices that would inspire other businesses to follow suit.

By recruiting workers from nearby areas and using products and services from local businesses, the hotel aims to stimulate demand for economic growth, he said.

Mr Owusu-Fordjour indicated that the hotel was eager to share its story with people from various cultures who appreciate the country’s hospitality industry.

‘We value the opportunity to share this milestone with individuals who appreciate and understand the significance of excellence in the hospitality industry.

He said the was the need to make efforts to support local communities, promote sustainable tourism practices, participate in conservation efforts, and implement eco-friendly initiatives to minimise negative impacts on the environment.

Ghana’s hospitality industry has the potential to accelerate the country’s economic growth and generate employment opportunities.

Hotels and restaurants contributed around GH?3.9b (US$
640b) to the country’s Gross Domestic Product in 2021, according to the 2022 Ghana Recreation and Tourism Sector Report.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Mr Moh Damush, Group CEO of Telecel Group, says the Company will soon be a market leader in the Ghanaian telecommunications industry after the takeover from Vodafone Ghana.

Mr Damush said Ghana’s operation would be the Company’s biggest priority.

The Telecel Group CEO said this during the official unveiling of Telecel Ghana, a takeover from Vodafone Ghana, in Accra.

Telecel Ghana has acquired 70 per cent ownership of Ghana Telecom from Vodafone Ghana as the latter’s shareholding expired; however, Ghana Telecom still have its 30 per cent shareholding.

Telecel Ghana has, thus, taken over the operations of Vodafone’s fixed telephone lines, internet services, voice and data services, as well as cash transfer and other business services.

Mr Damush said the Group had three main focus – to improve digital access and literacy, foster innovations and champion sustainability activities.

‘We will be integrating eco-friendly technologies and practices in our operations and strengthen Telecel Foundation’s impact in
education and tech empowerment for small businesses,’ he added.

Madam Patricia Obo-Nai, CEO of Telecel Ghana, said the Company had commenced initiatives to improve connectivity and services to make Telecel the preferred choice in the country.

She said it had launched a 4G plus connectivity and had increased the number of shops from 30 to 150, and hoping to hit 500 shops by close of year.

Mrs Obo-Nia said those initiatives were all geared towards improving services and operations to offer the public better connectivity and experience.

‘We have announced our brand promise that they are going to see an experience that is very different in our network, in the way we deliver service to our customers, and also, importantly, the mobile financial services.’

‘There will be a lot of digital innovations that will come up. And so, we announced our app called Telecel Play, which everybody should download. And over the period, you begin to see the changes that will happen, especially in the financial services,’ she ad
ded.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has officially outdoored Telecel Ghana after the parent company; Telecel Group, acquired a majority shareholding in Vodafone Ghana.

The company has, therefore, been rebranded into ‘Telecel’ to expand economic access to communication.

Telecel Ghana has, thus, taken over the operations of Vodafone’s fixed telephone lines, internet services, voice and data services, as well as cash transfer and other business services.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Accra Monday evening, Dr Bawumia lauded Telecel Group’s decision to invest in Ghana’s telecommunications landscape and urged the multi-national company to uphold the highest standards of ethics, transparency and corporate governance.

‘In the ever-evolving technological landscape, innovation remains key to staying afloat,’ he said, and entreated the telecom firm to provide its customers with accessible, safe, affordable and reliable network always.

‘In today’s fast-paced world, access to reliable and efficient communicati
on is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for socio-economic development.’

Dr Bawumia noted that expanding access to communication infrastructure would create opportunities for economic growth and social empowerment for the underprivileged in the society.

‘Telecommunication is central to Ghana’s digitisation goals. It plays a pivotal role in shaping the modern society because it connects people and empowers communities’.

Telecel Group’s decision to invest in Ghana was a testament to the conducive business environment created over the past few years, Dr Bawumia said, and that Ghana had witnessed a profound transformation in her telecommunications landscape.

‘In fact, I am proud to state that under this administration, the number of rural telephony sites, which is aimed at promoting digital inclusion and reducing the digital gap, have increased from 78 at the end of 2016 to 1,010 as at February 2024,’ he stated.

Works are also underway to build an additional 1,006 sites this year, bringing the total to 2,
016 sites.

‘Additionally, we have introduced technology neutrality, which has allowed increased capacity within the industry to serve more customers using existing spectrum allocation,’ Dr Bawumia said.

‘Telecel has leveraged this opportunity to introduce its 4G+ spectrum.’

The Vice President outlined government’s bold step to implementing the ECOWAS Free Roaming Services, noting that though it was adopted in 2016, Ghana’s free roaming services agreement with Cote D’Ivoire in June 2023 presents the first of such arrangements.

‘Ghana has also signed an agreement with Togo to begin free roaming services between the two countries this year.’

‘The National Communications Authority (NCA) is also engaging Benin and Gambia to establish similar bilateral agreements’.

He expressed delight to see the emphasis placed on inclusivity and accessibility in services as Ghana, like in many parts of the world, still had underserved communities with limited access to telecommunications infrastructure.

‘By expanding your
reach and investing in infrastructure development, you are not only expanding access to communication but also creating opportunities for economic growth and social empowerment for the underprivileged’.

In 2023, mobile money transactions hit a record GHC199.3 trillion, which represented 64.3% increase from the previous year.

The opportunities that the Mobile Money platform, backed by the introduction of Mobile Money Interoperability, had created was enormous, he added.

Dr Bawumia commended Vodafone Ghana’s role in the mobile money transactions and urged Telecel to strive to do more since mobile money was one of the surest ways to promoting financial inclusivity.

‘I applaud your commitment to corporate social responsibility through the Telecel Foundation and Africa Start-Up Initiative Programme (ASIP).

‘Your initiatives to support education, healthcare, and support for start-ups reflect your dedication to making a meaningful impact beyond business success.

‘This aligns perfectly with our government’s vis
ion of building a more equitable and prosperous society for all Ghanaians’.

He challenged Telecel to look beyond physical infrastructure and make sure that corporate social responsibility included a deliberate investment and development of the digital capabilities and capacities of young Ghanaians across the country at all levels.

‘As we celebrate this momentous occasion, remember that you also have a role in shaping the future of our nation.’

‘I have no doubt that this brand will not only thrive but also contribute significantly to the advancement of our nation’s telecommunications sector.’

Madam Patricia Obo-Nai, the Chief Executive Officer, Telecel Ghana, recalled the trajectory of the telecom company, dating back to 1974 as P and T and transitioned to Vodafone Ghana in 2009.

It currently has more than six million customers using its mobile telephone network with over 200,000 on fibre and thousands of others patronising its cash transfer services.

Madam Obo-Nai assured the company’s numerous customer
s of its readiness to providing innovative services to them and impact more lives in the coming years.

Source: Ghana News Agency

In recent times, Africa has seen a significant surge in the popularity of sports betting, capturing the interest of many sports enthusiasts. This fascination isn’t just about the possibility of winning; it’s also about the thrill and excitement that comes with the game.

Among the various gateways to this thrilling world are the numerous betting sites catering to African users in Ghana, Ethiopia, and more. These platforms provide a unique blend of entertainment, strategy, and chance, creating a vibrant betting culture within the country.

The heartbeat of sports and betting in African culture

Sports betting isn’t a new phenomenon in Africa; it has its roots deeply embedded in the continent’s social and cultural tapestry. Traditionally, individuals would make friendly bets on simple games or local sports outcomes.

However, the landscape has transformed dramatically with the advent of online sports betting. Nowadays, football and athletics, sports in which Africans take immense pride, are at the center of th
is betting frenzy. These activities foster community gatherings and vibrant discussions, further enriching the social fabric.

Moreover, as these betting sites flourish, they bring about job opportunities and stimulate local economies, showcasing the dynamic impact of sports betting beyond just entertainment.

The collective spirit of sports betting often spills over into local cafes and bars, where individuals gather to watch games and place bets in a communal setting. These hubs become a conduit for camaraderie, enabling people from various walks of life to bond over their shared interest in sports and betting.

The passion for sports betting also ignites a sense of nationalism depending on which African country you are from, especially during international competitions where famous athletes participate. Betting on these events goes beyond the prospect of financial gain; it becomes a statement of patriotism and support for national heroes.

Engaging features of betting sites catered to Africans

African bet
ting enthusiasts are treated to many features designed to enhance their betting experience. Live betting options, including virtual sports and user-friendly mobile platforms, speak directly to the evolving needs of users.

In addition to these technological advancements, many of these sites go the extra mile to ensure a seamless customer experience through localized promotions, language support, and betting tips crafted explicitly for the market. This attention to detail and dedication to user satisfaction are what make betting sites stand out in the eyes of sports betting aficionados.

Understanding the legal framework of sports betting in Africa

Navigating the legal landscape of sports betting in Africa is crucial for enthusiasts wishing to partake in this activity responsibly. For example, the country of Ethiopia has specific gambling laws that govern the operation of betting companies, including licensing agreements and the legal age for betting.

Recent years have seen changes and updates to these regul
ations, highlighting the government’s efforts to oversee and manage the sector effectively. Betting sites operating in Ethiopia are well aware of these laws and implement various measures to ensure full compliance, thereby offering a safe and regulated environment for users to enjoy.

The transformative impact of technology on African betting sites

The evolution of technology has dramatically transformed the sports betting landscape in Africa. The shift from physical betting shops to online platforms has opened up a world of convenience and accessibility for users. Mobile technology, in particular, has revolutionized how bets are placed, with smartphones enabling users to engage with betting sites anytime and anywhere.

Furthermore, advancements in security protocols ensure the safety of personal and financial information, providing peace of mind for users. The continuous integration of new technologies into betting platforms promises an exciting future for African sports betting enthusiasts.

Final Notes

T
he world of sports betting in Africa is more than just a pastime; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings excitement, community, and economic benefits. From the engaging features of betting sites to the crucial understanding of the legal landscape and the transformative role of technology, every aspect contributes to the dynamic and thrilling experience of sports betting in Africa.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Mr Edward Effah, Founder of Fidelity Bank, has urged young entrepreneurs to build businesses that seek to address problems in society.

He advised them to have a sharp vision that transcended mere organisational success and embodied a broader calling of addressing socio-economic challenges within the nation.

The Founder gave the advice during an Orange Summit, held by Fidelity Bank, in Accra.

The summit, tailored for young entrepreneurs, provided a platform for insightful discussions and guidance on building world-class companies with a broader societal impact.

Mr Effah, also the Chairman of Unilever Ghana, said: ‘Your vision should have a calling. It should not be just about being the biggest organisation or having the best products in the world.

It should have a calling beyond the organisation.?It?should make the world a better place.?For instance, if?you are in a poultry farm, your calling should be to solve Ghana’s malnutrition problem.’

Drawing from Fidelity Bank’s own ethos, he exemplified how the
ir vision of becoming a world-class bank intertwined with their commitment to Ghana’s socio-economic progress.

‘At Fidelity Bank,?when we said we wanted to be a world-class bank that gives returns to all its stakeholders, we went further to say that we wanted to contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic development.?That was the bigger calling, and that bigger calling created more followership.’

He said by actively participating in initiatives, such as?financing?at least half of the?power projects?in Ghana?in recent years?and promoting inclusive banking,?Fidelity Bank established itself as an institution dedicated to societal betterment.

Mr Effah said a robust vision should cater to the interests of all stakeholders, whether?customers,?employees, shareholders, or regulators, a holistic approach to vision ensured sustainable growth and stability.

He?highlighted the power of a purpose-driven vision in attracting stakeholders and fostering a sense of shared responsibility.? ?

‘When people come, they will know th
at they want to work with an organisation that seeks to solve Ghana’s socioeconomic problems deliberately,’?he?said.

This focus on social impact,?Mr. Effah?said, not only attracted passionate individuals but also fostered a sense of purpose within the organisation.

In addition to visionary leadership, the?founder of Fidelity bank?emphasised the value of becoming a thought leader within one’s industry.

‘I think whatever business you’re in, it’s important that you really are a thought-leader, and you know the industry inside out. And when you do, individuals look up to you?and you are called to speak on relevant topics globally.’

He urged entrepreneurs to delve into thorough research and continuous learning, drawing from his own experience at Fidelity Bank.

The Founder emphasised the importance of research and learning undertaken by the Bank?in the beginning?to?understand?and?emulate?the success of world-class financial institutions.

‘By studying successful counterparts worldwide, entrepreneurs can naviga
te their industries more effectively and steer clear of common pitfalls,’?he said.

The Orange Summit is just one of the non-financial services offered to beneficiaries of Fidelity’s Young Entrepreneurs Fund, which provides access to concessionary funds at?a significantly?reduced rate.

The initiative also?pioneers ESG training and capacity building, paving the way for businesses to develop robust environmental and social management systems and pursue certifications and licenses.?

The?event featured?speakers from relevant organisations such as the Ghana Revenue Authority, the Food and Drugs Authority,?Ghana Export and Promotion Authority and the African Continental Free Trade Area.

‘In essence, the summit served as a testament to Fidelity Bank’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of visionary leaders and fostering socio-economic development within Ghana,’ an official statement issued to the Ghana News Agency, in Accra, said.

‘Through a combination of financial support and knowledge-sharing platfor
ms like the Orange Summit, Fidelity Bank continues to empower young entrepreneurs to realize their aspirations and contribute meaningfully to society.’

Source: Ghana News Agency

Delta Air Lines, in collaboration with JA Africa, has hosted 30 high-school-aged girls from Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa at a highly impactful four-day bootcamp.

This was aimed at empowering them to become high-achieving women, a press release issued by the Kingdom Concepts Consult to the Ghana News Agency, said in Accra.

Themed: ‘Inspire Inclusion for African Girls’, the programme was to deepen their knowledge and skills to unlock their boundless potential.

The bootcamp, which took place in Accra, forms part of events to mark International Women’s Day.

The girls represent the best-performing students selected from a pool of more than 300 girls who took part in innovation camps and entrepreneurial skills training in their home countries.

The programme also aims to break down societal barriers hindering the potential of African girls, advocating, their active participation in leadership, decision-making, and entrepreneurial endeavours.

The bootcamp sessions were designed to provide comprehensive ins
ights and skills essential for personal and professional growth.

The lessons included personal branding, leadership, the power of conviction and self-confidence, emotional intelligence, careers in STEM, and etiquette.

Throughout the camp, the girls had the opportunity to be coached by female Delta volunteers and other accomplished women from various industries, the release said.

Simi Nwogugu, President and CEO of JA Africa, one of the Africa’s largest and most-impactful youth-serving NGOs said: ‘We are committed to empowering young girls, impacting their lives, and setting their feet on the path to becoming successful women as we believe this is a step in the right direction to having a just and equitable society.

‘We appreciate Delta Air Lines for the continuous partnership with us to empower young Africans, especially our young girls.’

Eloina Baddoo, Delta’s Country Manager for Ghana said she was delighted to have the opportunity to work with talented young women from across Africa and help them learn
the skills they would need on their journey to success.

She recounted how she commenced her career as an intern at Delta to how she was now overseeing Delta’s sales in the Ghana market.

She said the her journey examples the commitment of Delta Airlines in helping women progress in their career and achieve their potential.

‘I know first-hand just how committed Delta is as an organisation to helping women progress their careers and achieve their potential,’ she stated.

‘Empowering young girls at an early stage through leadership, entrepreneurship, and career development training can help tackle inequality issues in Africa.

‘It is against this background that this collaboration was born. Through this initiative, Delta Air Lines and JA Africa affirm an unwavering commitment to nurturing and empowering young girls, equipping them with the essential skills required to transform into exceptional female leaders of tomorrow.’

JA Africa is one of the continent’s largest and most-impactful youth-serving NGOs.

It
delivers hands on, immersive learning in work readiness, financial health, entrepreneurship, sustainability, STEM, economics, citizenship, ethics, and more.

It has a presence in 16 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and collectively reaches more than 900,000 youth in more than 3,000 schools each year.

Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) operates more than 4,000 daily flights to more than 280 destinations on six continents, connecting people to places and to each other.

‘Delta expects to serve nearly 200 million customers this year safely, reliably and with industry-leading customer service innovation – recognised as North America’s most on-time airline,’ the KCC release said.

Source: Ghana News Agency

The General Manager of the Cameroon Development Corporation (CDC), Franklin Ngoni Ikome Njie has debunked rumors circulating he is selling CDC land. Mr Ngoni said it is impossible to sell CDC land.

‘I don’t think it is possible for anyone to sell CDC land legally. Selling CDC land being it by the General Manager or whosoever, means that person must navigate on illegality. CDC land is a private state land on long-term lease to CDC be it in Fako Division or Moungo Division. No one can claim ownership of a parcel legally. Any individual activity on any of the lands is encroachment or illegality.’ Franklin Ngoni Ikome Njie, CDC General Manager explained.

The GM responded to this question following a new encroachment of close to four (4) hectares of land at the CDC palm plantation in Ombe by yet-to-be-identified individuals. As a result, about 500 palm trees ready to boost production were bulldozed.

‘Going by our findings, 3.9 is close to 4 hectares of land that has been encroached. According to a CDC estimate,
about 500 palm trees planted in 2015 have been destroyed. This means a lot to us because the trees are our capital. Our objective is to boost production and revive the CDC. This destruction is a big blow’. The CDC boss said.

The CDC General Manager said that he has filed a report to the Gendarmerie officials who are currently investigating the perpetrators and have them punished accordingly based on the roles each of them played whether they are from outside or inside the CDC.

Any CDC worker’s involvement he promised will not go unpunished.

Source: Cameroon News Agency