We're back and better
VA Weekly
Dear Venturer,
We know that we’ve been a little quiet but we’re fully back now and wanted to share a quick update regarding what happened in 2020 and what Ventures Africa’s plans are for 2021.
Like most businesses, 2020 was an equally challenging year for us. But thanks to a dedicated team and amazing clients, the company was able to keep growing.
At the beginning of the year, we released a multimedia issue titled ‘Is waste the future?’ followed by a series of feature articles and stories around some of the hottest topics in business, policy and innovation around Africa. We had also begun working on our next big issue before COVID-19 hit. When this happened, we had no choice but to make a few changes that included everyone working from home, efforts to improve our social media presence, website modifications and processes.
However, despite the uncertainties, we are happy to announce that we closed the year 2020 on a good note and remain committed to providing you with stories that showcase an emerging Africa.
What’s new
Herstory: The VA Podcast
On the latest episode of Herstory, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is set to become the first female Director-General of the WTO, Nigerian-born Lawyer, Eno T. Ebong, has been appointed the Acting Director of the USTDA, and more interesting stories. Listen to the full podcast here.
Rising demand for migrant workers moves Kenya to vet employment agencies
A recent surge in demand for migrant workers abroad moved Kenya’s government to license over 300 recruitment companies to secure jobs for its citizens. Below is an explainer video which covers everything you need to know about this move.
Betty Kibaara discusses Rockefeller Foundation’s approach to nourishment, food security and agri development in East Africa.
Ventures Africa had an interview with Betty Kibaara, Director, Food Initiative, of the Rockefeller Foundation where she sheds light on some of the Foundation’s approach to nourishment, food security and agricultural development. Read it here.
Pearl Recycling’s simple but creative approach towards tackling climate change in Nigeria
Pearl Recycling is a green innovation social enterprise whose aim is to create job opportunities through the creative reuse of solid waste. Click here to read more about the company’s work and what makes them unique.
At the end of 2020, we were also able to:
Release a round up issue for the year 2020. Ventures Africa put a spotlight on unique individuals and businesses, who despite the pandemic and economic downturn made a difference by either creating local solutions or providing valuable services within their immediate communities. This collection of stories is also our very first VA Ladder issue- a compelling multimedia series. See the full list of articles below:
T Spices Kitchen takes us through the creation of food content while simplifying recipes for Nigerians
Oluwatosin Samuel is an accidental content creator who is creating simple food recipes for Nigerians on social media. In an interview with Ventures Africa she talks about building a thriving food brand and what keeps her going irrespective of certain challenges. Listen to our podcast discussion here. There is also an engaging article available via this link.
Meet EBlack Jewel, the tailoring brand on a mission to restore credibility in Nigeria’s fashion space
It is nearly impossible to find credible tailors in Nigeria. However, during a chat with Ebieritei Itaita, the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of EBlack Jewel, he emphasized that the brand seeks to establish trust and effective communication with customers while paying detailed attention to tailoring their thoughts to life. Read the full interview here.
How Omoregie Osakporlor is using photography to preserve culture and recreate stories of the average Nigerian
Lagos based documentary photographer, Omoregie Osakpolor is using his art for two core purposes-to preserve culture and to capture underreported stories of everyday Nigerians. Since venturing into this space, Osakplolor has shown exceptional interest in creating photo documentaries and films. Click here to read about him and view his work.
Nigerian SME, Mekino shares insight on surviving 2020 and beyond in the Nigerian market
“The lockdown grounded our entire business operations. Everything was on a standstill. In fact, the COVID-19 pandemic paralyzed our entire business activity,” explained Usman Aliyu, Co-Founder & Director of Business Operations, Marketing and Sales, Mekino. But that didn’t discourage the Abuja-based SME, which strives to promote made-in-Nigeria products. Click here to read Mekino’s inspiring story.
Mercurie’s Managing Director, Damola Bangboye discusses building a business image in the modern world
In today’s business world, a company’s image is just as important as the functionality of its products. In an exclusive interview with Ventures Africa, Damola Bangboye, Managing Director at Mercurie, a software and marketing technology company on a mission to accelerate Africa’s digital economy, shares some insight on image creation. Read here.
#VANUGGET
Remember to Stay Safe!
In light of the coronavirus pandemic, we hope that you’re keeping safe. Please observe social distancing, ensure to wear your face mask in public, regularly and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol based sanitizer. Also, stay home if you feel unwell with symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty breathing.