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AfCFTA Extends Reach To North Africa

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The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat and N Gage Consulting signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance implementation of the AfCFTA within Africa, with a focus on North Africa and Arabic speaking countries as well as harness the potential of the AfCFTA through targeted outreach towards positive impact in Africa. The MoU was sealed by the AfCFTA Secretary General, H.E. Mr. Wamkele Mene and Mr. Karim Refaat, Chairman of N Gage Consulting and Dr. Sherif Fahmy, CEO.

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The was established as an effort to eliminate trade barriers among African countries with the aim of creating a single market size of 1.3 billion people with a combined annual GDP of $3.4 trillion. As the largest free trade area in the world, the AfCFTA is expected to increase intra-African trade and promote regional economic integration of Africa and, as a result, contribute to the sustainable economic and social development of the continent through the creation of employment opportunities and the reduction of poverty.

Pursuant to the MoU, the two parties commit to strengthen cooperation and promote concrete activities in areas of conducting webinars, tailor effective roundtable sessions, public-private dialogues and to develop a series of monthly newsletters to disseminate relevant information through social media platforms with the aim of raising awareness of business and governments on the AfCFTA, its objectives and showcasing AfCFTA’s Guided Trade Initiative and its role in powering trade among members states. 

Additionally, the collaboration will facilitate the preparation for the AfCFTA Business Forum and The Intra African Trade Fair (IATF) and the execution of different capacity building programs for the member states in order to leverage the AfCFTA to boost intra-African trade and utilise Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects to support investment in infrastructure.

The MoU is expected to promote the AfCFTA as a trade liberalisation instrument and sustainable development enabler and accelerator as well as enhance intra-African trade as an engine for economic diversification and industrialisation.

As one of the leading companies operating in the area of government relations and public policy in the MENA region, N Gage Consulting is committed to support the AfCFTA and will deploy all the necessary resources to strengthen and expand cooperation with the AfCFTA Secretariat to enhance African trade integration. 

In addition to her impressive legal background, Rosemond has cultivated a niche expertise in the tech startup ecosystem. She has consistently provided comprehensive consulting, due diligence, and investor readiness services to numerous companies in the tech sector.

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Featured

Middle East Crisis Brings African Leadership Into The Spotlight

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Middle East in Crisis & Conflict: A Primer, Author Taufiq Rahim (Image: Supplied).

As the world grapples with the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, it has opened the door for African leadership on a global stage. The new best-selling book released this month, Middle East in Crisis & Conflict: A Primer, by leading geopolitical strategist Taufiq Rahim, serves as a critical tool for experts and leaders alike, and covers the wide-ranging geopolitical, economic, and social ramifications of this enduring conflict.

For leaders with global aspirations, understanding the dynamics of the Middle East conflict is paramount. It’s not just about the immediate consequences; it’s about comprehending how this crisis reshapes alliances, trade routes, and cooperation among nations. Africa, in particular, stands at a crossroads, as the continent’s leaders must navigate the shifting landscape of international relations.

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The Middle East intersects with Africa’s economic future, especially as the Global South consolidates into a formidable bloc. While the immediate focus is on the localized violence in Gaza, there are broader consequences already unfolding. The shifting alliances due to the conflict that is already emerging, will reorient around how African countries will engage the Gulf, the Middle East and even the broader Global South. 

In comparing the ripple effects of the Middle East conflict to the Russia-Ukraine war unveils subtle yet impactful consequences. While the latter disrupted grain imports and energy markets, the former exerts its influence in even sharper ways. Particular attention is paid to the rise of extremist activities across Africa. Yet it is the clear gap of leadership in the West amidst this crisis that is strengthening the growing consolidation of BRICS nations, as well as the need for investment and trade routes that connect the Middle East and Africa directly. Political solidarity is giving way to economic solidarity. 

In response to these challenges, African leaders must seize the opportunities presented by the vacuum left by Western powers. By providing leadership and resources in humanitarian efforts, Africa can assert its continental power projection. Moreover, this moment offers a unique chance for African businesses to expand into regions traditionally dominated by Western brands.

Taufiq Rahim has a personal background from East Africa, which has enriched his perspective on these issues. His professional journey, spanning investment, technology, and global development, provides valuable insights into the economic impact of Middle East conflicts on Africa, and the broader implications in a shifting world order.. By drawing on his experiences, Rahim illuminates the path forward for African leaders amidst current global events.

In conclusion, the Middle East conflict’s repercussions are already reverberating across continents. Africa must rise to the occasion, leveraging its strengths to navigate these turbulent times and forge a brighter future for all.

 

About the Book

Since the devastating attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent bombardment by Israel of Gaza, there has been an escalating crisis in the Middle East. With an overflow of news, images, and social media, it is hard to make sense of it all. Middle East in Crisis and Conflict: A Primer distills the information, insights, and implications you need to navigate ongoing developments.

Rahim comprehensively but concisely threads together the current moment and the wider context. Drawing on a background working across many of the countries affected and in different spheres–humanitarian, political, and business–he highlights the main facts, stakeholders, and historical moments in one highly readable volume. The Primer is certain to be a leading starting point for experts and observers alike for the events of October 7 and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict overall.

About the Author

Taufiq Rahim is a Strategist, investor, and writer  who focuses on the intersection of global geopolitics and transformative technology in a changing world. He first began work in the Middle East in the rural communities of Syria in 2003 and is currently building platforms within the 2040 World nexus. Taufiq Rahim’s deep ties to East Africa and his extensive professional background make him a trusted voice on issues of global significance. Through his work, he continues to advocate for meaningful solutions to complex challenges facing our world today.

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Hospitality & Tourism

JW Marriott Unveils Second Property, JW Marriott Hotel In Kenya

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JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today unveils its second property in Kenya with the opening of JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi. Standing as the tallest hotel in the country with 35 stories in the Westlands commercial district, JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi captures the essence of Kenya’s natural beauty and heritage, offering travellers a peaceful escape for the mind, body, and soul.

“As JW Marriott expands its presence in Africa, the brand enriches the region with a legacy of luxurious hospitality, seamlessly weaving together its dedication to holistic well-being and fostering meaningful connections throughout the continent,” said Helen Leighton, Vice President, Luxury Brands & Communications, Marriott International, Europe, Middle East & Africa. “JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi perfectly embodies the city’s contemporary yet mindful urban lifestyle. The property combines the warmth of African hospitality with serene spaces where guests can disconnect from distraction, focus on the present moment, and reconnect with what matters most to them.”

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The hotel features 315 sophisticated guestrooms, five internationally-inspired dining destinations, a luxury Spa by JW, swimming pool, fitness center, and eight exceptional event spaces for gatherings and celebrations. An additional 51 spacious serviced apartments and a sky bar & lounge are slated to open later in the year.

An Urban Sanctuary – Bringing the Outdoors In

The hotel’s interior design is largely inspired by the beauty, heritage, and palette of Kenya’s great outdoors. Designed by George Wong, the property is inspired by the spirit and story of an African adventure, with an earth-toned colour palette of savannah browns, Maasai reds, cultural terracotta, and safari green incorporated throughout its spaces.

These aesthetic choices introduce a new echelon of luxury to the city, featuring intentional spaces that allow guests to connect with the essence of Africa, while enjoying the comforts of a modern urban hotel. Throughout the property a collection of unique works of art – from sculptures and handmade ceramics to wall murals and regional textiles – tell the story of the breathtaking Kenyan landscape.

The guest rooms and suites – including one Presidential Suite – offer guests a contemporary retreat to recharge and reset with breathtaking views of the city. Situated on the nine top-most floors of the high-rise tower, spacious serviced apartments will offer luxurious, exclusive experiences for long-stay guests and family groups in one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

Mindful moments can be found at Spa by JW, which offers bespoke wellness experiences for guests during their stay, including customisable massages and beauty treatments to refresh and invigorate the body. Guests can maintain their daily routines at the state-of-the-art Fitness Center on the fifth floor, featuring a yoga studio, steam room, and an outdoor pool and terrace, offering an ideal space for ultimate relaxation.

Worldly Culinary Destinations

JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi is home to a host of rich culinary experiences that elevate the city’s hospitality scene to new standards of sophistication, with the goal of creating special moments and  fostering a deeper connection between guests and locals. All-day MIDI Café & Patisserie creates the ideal spot for quick breakfasts, light lunches, or afternoon coffee and cake, while Myna Restaurant showcases international cuisine with an African flair, serving sumptuous buffet-style breakfasts and family Sunday brunches, as well as lunches and dinner from its indoor and outdoor terrace setting.    

Hudson Tavern Bar & Grill offers the ideal setting to relax while watching live sports, featuring an authentic grill house serving tapas, mezze, and classic American burgers. Fine dining in the capital city is enhanced with the arrival of Mughal, celebrating the esteemed cuisine and culture of the Mughal Empire. Guests can embark on a unique culinary journey immersed in sumptuous décor and stories reminiscent of a gracious, bygone era. The cocktail bar is a highlight, serving signature drinks and mocktails infused with Mughal ingredients and spices.

Slated to open later this year, Mr. Pang Sky Bar & Lounge, situated on the 31st floor of the hotel, is set to become the city’s evening hotspot, offering modern Pan-Asian cuisine and upscale mixology offerings across its indoor bar and lounge, outdoor terrace, and two private dining spaces, including a premium whiskey library.

Fostering Connections

JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi offers over 1,700 square metres of exceptional meeting and event spaces equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, catering to all occasions from corporate events and meetings to family gatherings and celebrations. The pillar-less Grand Ballroom, hosting up to 800 guests, is an inspirational venue for the city and can be adapted for a range of events including luxury weddings. The hotel also has a sustainable meeting program, which includes strategies for reducing waste, ensuring responsible waste management, and maintaining energy efficiency to reduce the carbon footprint of events. 

“JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi takes pride in ushering in a new chapter of refinement to our capital city,” added Eben Nel, General Manager, JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi. “The property is perfectly situated for restful overnight stays for those visitors adventuring into the country’s magnificent game reserves. For those visiting the city for longer and needing to revitalize their souls by immersing themselves in nature, the tranquility of Nairobi National Park, the world’s only national park within a capital city, is just a short drive out of the Central Business District. We are thrilled to open our doors and offer a warm Kenyan welcome, world-class service, and generous hospitality to our guests.”

Westlands is a social and entertainment hotspot within close proximity to Nairobi’s Central Business District and a number of top local attractions, including Nairobi National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum, Maasai Market, Bomas of Kenya, and Karura Forest, an urban upland forest on the outskirts of Nairobi. The Nairobi expressway links the area to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which is just a 20-minute drive away.

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