The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) has appointed Dr. Léandre Bassole, a seasoned economic development specialist, as Deputy Director General for the East African Region, effective June 1, 2024.

Dr. Bassole, a Burkina Faso national, has over 18 years of experience in high-level policy dialogue, advisory services, and the design of country programs and strategies. He has successfully delivered impactful operations and programs across various African regions, including West, Central, East, and Southern Africa, working in middle-income countries and transition states.

Before this appointment, Bassole served as Country Manager for Guinea. In this role, he coordinated and led policy reforms, engaged in high-level dialogue with government authorities and development partners, and focused on preparing and implementing economic development strategies.

He also oversaw co-financing, regional integration, domestic resource mobilization, public sector reforms, private sector development reforms, public financial management, governance, and strategic partnerships. Under his leadership, the Bank’s engagement in Guinea increased from $240 million in 2017 to $728 million in 2023, establishing the Bank as the preferred partner for supporting high-impact development operations.

Bassole joined the Bank Group in 2009 as a Young Professional and later served as a Senior Macroeconomist (2012-2017) covering seven countries: Cabo Verde, Comoros, Mali, Burundi, Madagascar, Senegal, and Rwanda. In these roles, he designed and implemented policy reforms and institutional support operations across various sectors, including governance, agriculture, industry, mining, transport, infrastructure, energy, health, education, and climate change.

One of his notable achievements was leading the most innovative budget support program, combining lending and Partial Credit Guarantee instruments for the first time for an African Development Fund country (Madagascar in 2016). This initiative leveraged the Bank’s operations to support fiscal policy and structural reforms, facilitating economic growth and poverty alleviation, and helping the country access capital markets.

Before joining the African Development Bank, Bassole worked as a researcher and development impact specialist in various academic and international institutions, including the French National Center for Scientific Research, and the World Bank Group, where he was a core team member for the World Development Report on Agriculture for Development (2008).

Commenting on his appointment, Dr. Bassole said, “I am very grateful to President Adesina for the confidence and trust bestowed upon me by this appointment. I am also humbled and deeply honored to work under his leadership in the East Africa region, working with a talented and high-performing team and contributing to improving the quality of life of the people of this region.”

Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the Bank Group, remarked, “I am pleased to appoint Dr. Léandre Bassole as Deputy Director General designated for the East Africa Region. Léandre, a seasoned economist and respected professional, has deep knowledge and experience in developing and managing country strategies and operations. His solid track record of field-level delivery as Country Manager and good reputation in building partnerships, managing large portfolios, and providing team leadership will help the Bank accelerate delivery on its mandate in East Africa.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact:
Kwasi Kpodo,
Communication and External Relations
media@afdb.org

“We believe in technology for the growth of our businesses and for the national economic diversification” said Oscar Ondo, CEO of GITGE, the company responsible for managing Equatorial Guinea’s submarine and terrestrial fiber optic network. 

GITGE, BANGE, IDENTIC GE, and the Ministry of Posts, Transport and Telecommunications, marked their presence at GITEX Africa 2024, held in Marrakech, Morocco, from June 19-21. The event brought together over 10,000 visitors and 400 exhibitors from around the world, including major players in the technology and information sector. The objective was to promote innovation and collaboration in the African region. 

From the Equatoguinean perspective, attending such events is strategic for future entry into the continent’s telecommunications map. Africa has the most active tech space globally, with various companies growing and prospering daily. Seizing current opportunities in this sector can guarantee a significant impact on the country’s GDP and constitutes a smart step towards economic diversification. 

Tech&Startups 
Today, the African startup map resembles a marathon. From within countries that lead the market, it is observed that both public and private sectors are walking hand-in-hand with accelerators and incubators, and also investing in talent development and digital literacy. This is all to attract numerous seed capital opportunities available in the international market. “Literally, they can come from anywhere: companies, philanthropists, investment funds, business angels, foundations, advisory&invest investors. It is a very dynamic sector that constantly receives capital injections” added Oscar Ondo. 

Equatorial Guinea commits to the sector 
GITGE used its participation to promote Ecuatoguinean talents, present an overview of the national insights, and provide support to IDENTIC GE. The foundation debuted at the event with its four most prominent projects in 2024: Chicas en Tecnología (Girls in Technology), Robótica (Robotics), Educa (Education), and Alfabeto (Alphabet). At present, Identical operates at its maximum capacity but would like to expand its scope. “There is much to do and improve; our projects have a lot of success, but we need resources to expand their reach,” said Sylvia Makaryo, director of IDENTIC GE. 

The delegation composed by the National Bank of Equatorial Guinea (BANGE), reported that they are very satisfied with their participation in GITEX Africa 2024. “The event has been a success for us,” they said, “as we have been able to establish important contacts and discover a new portfolio of Fintech products and services. There is certainly an interested audience in Equatorial Guinea for more efficient financial services.” 

In addition to networking, seminars and conferences were held on key topics such as the development of the African technology industry, cybersecurity, and the digitalization of the economy. A panel on the future of African connectivity featured Olivia García, GITGE’s CTO, as an expert speaker. She shared her impressions and experiences in the national and international market as well as discussing the latest opportunities and challenges faced by the CEMAC region in Africa. 

From sunny Marrakech, clear digital skies have been observed; ICT is where the key lies for economic diversification of some African countries. Technology, innovation, and science are the driving force that can propel growth and prosperity in the continent. The CEMAC region recognizes that participating in events like GITEX Africa is crucial for connecting with the latest trends and opportunities in the technology sector. By discussing their own topics and exchanging experiences, the region can generate common solutions that benefit not only involved countries but also the region as a whole. 

“We hope to become a key player in the African technology sector’s development,” concluded the Vice-Minister of Telecommunications Candido Muatetema. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

As the first incubator for technological enterprises in Morocco, Technopark signed five major partnership agreements during Gitex Africa 2024, to strengthen the Moroccan startup ecosystem and promote innovation and sustainable development. One of these agreements was with Kaoun International, the organizer of GITEX Africa (https://GITEXAfrica.com/), aimed at exploring future collaboration opportunities and promoting mutual growth

Download document: https://apo-opa.co/3KCavGC

A Beacon of Success: Our operational sites in Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Agadir, Essaouira, and the Souss-Massa Innovation City collectively house 450 permanent resident startups. We boast an impressive 86% success rate for startups during their incubation period and a 95% overall satisfaction rate among our enterprises.

Empowering Entrepreneurs: Technopark Morocco is committed to empowering entrepreneurs. Our facilities provide a collaborative environment where ideas thrive, and businesses prosper. We are proud that 35% of our startups are exporting their services across four continents, demonstrating our global reach and influence.

A Thriving Startup Ecosystem: Based on Technopark’s extensive experience, several best practices have been instrumental in fostering a thriving startup ecosystem. Offering comprehensive support programs tailored to startups’ needs, including incubation, acceleration, mentorship, and access to funding, has been crucial. Cultivating strategic local and international partnerships with investors, corporations, academic institutions, and government entities has facilitated access to resources, expertise, and market opportunities.

Global Startup Success: Prioritizing innovation and technology-driven entrepreneurship at Technopark has enabled startups to develop scalable solutions and compete in global markets.   Encouraging startups to expand internationally and facilitating cross-border collaborations has broadened their market reach and enhanced their competitiveness. We have strong partnerships with Spanish, French, U.S., and Canadian accelerators, and proudly, over 35% of our startups are exporting internationally.

Key Performance Indicators Over the Last 20 Years: Over the past two decades, Technopark has tracked several key performance indicators to measure our impact and success, including the number of startups supported, which exceeds 3,000, and the creation of more than 15,000 direct and indirect jobs. Our success rate during incubation stands at 86%, with an overall satisfaction rate of 95%. Additionally, 36% of our startups are now exporting internationally.

Join Us in Our Journey: We invite all stakeholders to join us in this journey towards a more innovative Africa. Together, we can build a brighter future for the continent and its people.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

About Technopark Morocco:
Technopark Morocco is a leading technology park in Morocco, providing a dynamic ecosystem for startups and entrepreneurs in the ICT sector. Since its inception, Technopark Morocco has been at the forefront of promoting technological innovation and contributing to the economic development of Morocco and beyond.

Reload Logistics (www.ReloadLogistics.com/), a leading provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions, proudly unveils its new brand identity to better align with its innovative, modern approach to logistics. Founded in 2007, Reload has been strategically amassing assets across major routes and ports in Sub-Saharan Africa to provide clients with the most flexible and accessible solutions in the market.

The new brand embodies Reload’s commitment to constant innovation, ensuring clients receive the most efficient and forward-thinking solutions for their cargo. This fresh visual identity reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the supply chain sector.

Reload Logistics is rapidly accelerating its growth with an already vast asset portfolio, including warehouses, trucks, and rail capabilities across all major routes and ports in Sub-Saharan Africa, providing end-to-end services to global clients. In addition to the rebranding, several key developments will enhance Reload’s capabilities and service offerings:

Expansion of RGT Warehouse in Zambia: The RGT facility in Zambia has expanded to a total storage capacity of 80,000 sqm, with 60,000 sqm of covered storage and a 20,000 sqm secure bonded yard. This expansion provides Reload Logistics’ clients with more efficient cargo handling and ample space for diverse commodities.

Sulphur Bulk Terminal in Richards Bay: Reload has invested in a 50,000 sqm Sulphur Bulk Terminal in Richards Bay, South Africa. This strategic addition complements the company’s extensive portfolio, which includes a fleet of over 1,000 trucks, 200 wagons, and more than 1 million sqm of warehousing space across 13 countries.

Acquisition of Five Locomotives: To enhance service capabilities, Reload Logistics has acquired five diesel-electric mainline freight and passenger locomotives. These locomotives enable the company to handle larger cargo volumes, ensure timely deliveries, and offer greater routing flexibility while reducing its carbon footprint with energy-efficient technology.

“We are excited to unveil our new brand identity,” said Roger Graham, Chief Marketing Officer of Reload Logistics. “This new look represents our growth and innovation. Our expansions and acquisitions underscore our commitment to providing top-tier service enabled by our forward-thinking solutions designed for our clients.”

Visit our new website at www.ReloadLogistics.com to explore the refreshed brand and discover how Reload Logistics can provide tailored solutions for your logistics needs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Reload Logistics.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Roger Graham 
Chief Marketing Officer
Email: brand@reloadlogistics.com

About Reload Logistics:
Reload Logistics is one of Africa’s leading providers of end-to-end supply chain solutions for metals, minerals, soft commodities, and project cargo. With over 1,000 trucks, rail wagons, and more than 1 million sqm of storage, Reload Logistics operates in more than 13 countries, providing seamless freight solutions across Africa, Asia, and Europe. Fueled by cutting-edge technology, Reload Logistics ensures real-time updates for clients in challenging supply chain environments, reaffirming its position as an industry innovator.