Canon Central and North Africa (www.Canon-CNA.com) is expanding its lineup with the debut of the EOS C400 featuring an RF mount, alongside the CN7x17 KAS T lens engineered to elevate large scale productions to greater heights.

Adapting to the evolving needs of the market and designed with versatility in mind, the EOS C400 offers an all-in-one solution tailored to support a vast range of different productions, from indie cinema and documentary, live and virtual broadcasts to the electronic news gathering field.

The EOS C400 is the first high-end RF mount cinema EOS camera, ushering in a groundbreaking new era for Canon products particularly within the EOS R System. Compact yet mighty, the innovative design packs advanced features and specifications typically found in larger cameras into a more nimble box shaped design, prioritising ease of use and operability without compromising on capability. Moreover, specific in-camera connectivity such as genlock, return input and 12-pin lens terminal all support live multi-camera productions.

BSI sensor and triple ISO

The EOS C400 is equipped with a cutting-edge 6K full frame backside-illuminated, stacked CMOS sensor (BSI), boasting 16 stops of dynamic range. The technology enhances light capture efficiency and facilitates faster readouts, ensuring superior image quality.

Setting a new standard, the camera introduces the Canon triple base ISO technology, crafted for optimal performance in low light environments and delivering the cleanest optical results. With base ISO levels of 800, 3,200 and 12,800 when shooting in Canon Log 2 or 3, users have greater flexibility when it comes to shooting in challenging lighting conditions.

To make the shooting process that much easier, an automatic switching mode detects ambient lighting and adjusts the base ISO level accordingly, enhancing the overall user experience.

RF mount

Supporting Canon RF mount technology, the EOS C400 seamlessly integrates with a wide array of RF prime, zoom, hybrid, cinema and VR lenses. For added flexibility without the need for third party accessories, the camera also supports the option to use a variety of Canon’s EF-EOS R mount adapters as well as the new PL-RF mount adaptor. Additionally, the camera has enhanced metadata capabilities and connectivity options facilitating real time frame-by-frame data capture enhancing both VFX and Virtual Production workflows.

Dual Pixel CMOS AF II

Canon is now introducing its Dual Pixel CMOS AF II to its cinema EOS system, providing filmmakers with improved autofocus features. With comprehensive 100% coverage across the sensor plane, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF II delivers swift and precise performance, upgrading filmmaking clarity and reliability whilst providing piece-of-mind that you are nailing the shot every time.

This latest system also unlocks additional benefits such as face/ eye/ body tracking and animal detection and tracking, especially useful when working solo in a fast-paced environment.

Recording formats

With more options when it comes to internal recording formats, users can now tailor the format to suit their specific needs. Options include Canon’s scalable 12-bit Cinema RAW Light LT/ ST/ HQ, reliable 4:2:2 10-bit XF-AVC and all-new MP4 based XF-AVC S and XF-HEVC S formats, accommodating several types of professional requirements.  All of which accommodate detailed filmmaking workflows with professional filename and metadata support.

Compact design

Users familiar with the EOS C500 Mark II will appreciate the EOS C400’s recognisable design, now upgraded with an even more compact form while still offering an extensive array of connectivity. This enables operators to access the full suite of features typically associated with larger scale production cameras without the burden of size, weight or attaching additional modules.

The new compact design and enhanced accessories such as a versatile LCD bracket, advanced top handle and improved hand grip offer compatibility with a range of shooting styles whether handheld, on a gimbal, drone or shoulder-mounted.

Introducing the latest Cine Servo lens

The all new CN7x17 KAS T available with either RF or PL mount sits within the Canon Cine Servo lens range, an evolution to the previous CN7x lens but with improved updates designed to bolster operational performance and extend compatibility with virtual and VFX workflows.

With an expansive 7x optical zoom and 17-120mm focal length, the lens appeals to live sports and news, documentary, film, remote and virtual productions.11 iris blades produce softly diffused highlights and silky out of focus backgrounds.

Among its standout features are improved connectivity between the lens and camera, streamlining processes such as real-time lens distortion correction, frame by frame lens metadata and virtual production workflows with an Unreal Engine plug-in tailored for the EOS C400. The PL mount variant of the lens supports both Cooke /i TechnologyTM and ZEISS eXtended DataTM for lens metadata and distortion/ shading correction  [1].

Decked with the state-of-the art next-generation e-Xs V digital drive unit, the CN7x17 KAS T features advanced functionalities including optical focus breathing correction, faster iris control and a convenient USB-C interface for remote control and user setting transfer.

EOS C300 Mark III firmware update

Canon is also releasing a free-of-charge firmware update for the EOS C300 Mark III, adding 12-bit Cinema RAW Light formats: LT (Light), ST (Standard) and HQ (High Quality), improving workflow flexibility and providing more options post-production. An Auto ISO feature will also be made available to seamlessly transition between dynamic lighting conditions in a continuous shot.

Canon today also introduces the RF 35mm F1.4L VCM, a first of its kind hybrid lens designed to capture both stills and video, along with the new Speedlite EL-10 for elevating portraits with controllable lighting.

For more information about these products, please visit:

EOS C400: https://apo-opa.co/4bFrXpv

CN7x17 KAS T:   https://apo-opa.co/4ebZfy8

EOS C300 Mark III firmware update: https://apo-opa.co/4efTLTd

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/4ebZklq)– ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: Canon-CNA.com

Crossware Email Signature, a leader in email signature management solutions, has successfully concluded its participation in GITEX Africa 2024 (www.GITEXAfrica.com) held in Marrakesh, Morocco. The event, renowned for highlighting the latest technological advancements, provided a valuable platform for Crossware (www.Crossware365.com/) to engage with industry leaders and showcase its innovative solutions.

Download document 1: https://apo-opa.co/3VwxRUg
Download document 2: https://apo-opa.co/3VujeAW

Throughout the event, Crossware demonstrated how its email signature management software can enhance communication and branding for businesses. The company’s booth attracted numerous visitors interested in learning how Crossware’s solutions can ensure consistency, compliance, and professional branding in every email. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with over 120 badges scanned throughout the event.

“We were thrilled with the response we received at GITEX Africa 2024”, said Al Schaeffer, Head of Sales of Crossware. “The event exceeded our expectations, providing us with numerous opportunities to engage with potential customers and partners. We are excited about the future possibilities this exposure has opened up for us in the African market and extended territories”.

“Presenting our work and receiving such positive feedback was a highlight for us at the conference”, added Al Schaeffer. “We were delighted to demonstrate our technological advancements, which showcased our industry-leading services and paved the way for discussions on future collaboration opportunities with global innovators interested in our work”.

Event Highlights:

Networking Opportunities: Crossware connected with key industry stakeholders and potential partners, paving the way for future collaborations. Notable interactions included meetings with 4Sight Cloud, Mindware, and the Chief Commercial Officer for Morocco Telco, all positive and hinted at fruitful partnerships. Securing a new channel partner for North Africa, and servicing clients across government sectors, financial services, and healthcare was a significant highlight.

Live Demonstrations: Attendees experienced live demonstrations of Crossware’s email signature management solutions, highlighting their ease of use and effectiveness. These demonstrations showcased our product’s capabilities to prospective clients and partners, reinforcing its value and driving interest.

Market Expansion: The event solidified Crossware’s commitment to expanding its presence in Africa, helping businesses streamline their email communications. Key opportunities emerged in various sectors, including finance, insurance, distribution, and cloud services. Moreover, Crossware identified substantial user opportunities with prominent organizations in Morocco. The total number of users interested in our software exceeded 39,500, and we have developed promising opportunities with several key partners and potential distributors.

By strategically engaging with these stakeholders and demonstrating the robust capabilities of our solutions, Crossware has significantly strengthened its market presence and laid the groundwork for continued growth and success in the African region and beyond.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

For interviews, images or further information please contact:
Crossware Managing Director
Troy Adams
tadams@crossware365.com

About Crossware:
Crossware’s powerful tools allow its clients to personalise company emails with intelligently applied ad banners, email signatures, disclaimers and more.

In 2013 as Microsoft business solutions grew, Crossware was the first to introduce an Email Signature Solution for Microsoft Office 365. Today, Crossware Email Signature has over a million users across 80 countries.

For more information about Crossware Email Signature and to explore our innovative solutions, please visit www.Crossware365.com.

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (“ETI”) (www.EcoBank.com), the parent company of the Ecobank Group, today held its 36th Annual General Meeting in Lomé, Togo, which was followed by an Extraordinary General Meeting. Shareholders applauded the Group’s strong performance in 2023 with its net revenues exceeding US$2 billion mark for the first time in nearly 10 years. They also noted that this performance was achieved in the face of significant macro-economic headwinds such as high inflationary and interest rate environment, local currency depreciation, and geopolitical tensions.

The Group achieved profit before tax of US$581 million, up 8 per cent from US$540 million in 2022. In constant currency (i.e. excluding the adverse effects of translating local currencies into ETI’s reporting currency the US dollar), the increase in profit before tax is 34 per cent. The Group recorded a record low cost-to-income ratio of 54.9 per cent.

Alain Nkontchou, Chairman, Ecobank Group, said: “2023 was an encouraging year for our Group. Our organisation has shown resilience in a rapidly changing operating environment. The Board is proud of what our employees around the continent and in our affiliates in other regions have achieved, collectively and individually.”

Jeremy Awori, Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Group, commented: “Ecobank delivered a strong performance in 2023, demonstrating the competitive advantages of our resilient, diversified business model and the early results of our new Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy.We demonstrated financial prudence by carefully managing our shareholders’ capital, ensuring customer satisfaction at every touchpoint, and making informed decisions about pricing our assets and liabilities. We are confident that our strategy is paving the way for our continued success and growth.”

The AGM also approved the appointments of Papa Madiaw Ndiaye, Louis Adande and Terence G. Sibiya as Non-Executive Directors succeeding the retiring Directors. Alain Nkontchou, Mfundo Nkuhlu and Hervé Assah stepped down from the Board after completing their terms of office.

Immediately after the General Meetings, the Board of Directors appointed Papa Madiaw Ndiaye as the incoming Chairman of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated. He is taking over from Alain Nkontchou. Papa Ndiaye is the Chief Executive Officer and Founding Partner of AFIG Funds, a leading private equity fund management company focused on Africa. He has a proven track record of leadership and the creation of shareholder value and a deep commitment to Ecobank’s mission and strategic agenda.

Papa Ndiaye, ETI’s new Chairman, said: “I have long admired Ecobank Group’s successful development across Africa, and I am looking forward to working with Jeremy and ETI’s Board to steer the Bank through the next and exciting phase of its journey. With its strong foundation and numerous competitive advantages, I see Ecobank as strongly positioned to accelerate its growth trajectory and play an even greater role in driving the continent’s economic development in this era of rapid technological changes.”

Jeremy added that: “With his strong experience and knowledge, particularly in investing in financial services, Papa Ndiaye’s appointment as ETI’s Chairman is a significant step in reinforcing our position as the leading pan-African banking Group. We are excited about the future under his guidance and look forward to achieving our Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy, while enhancing our service delivery.”

Ecobank has recently implemented its new Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy to create shareholder value and deliver sustainable growth. The strategy’s multiple initiatives and actions include entrenching its leadership position in affiliates in which it has high market shares; transforming its business performance in Nigeria and in subscale markets; solidifying its leadership in Corporate and Investment Banking; growing its Commercial Banking and Consumer Banking businesses; and growing volumes and total value on its payment ecosystem.

The Shareholders approved all the resolutions presented at the AGM, including the Approval of the Accounts, the Appropriation of the Profits, the renewal of mandates of Directors, and the election of Directors.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated.

Media Contact: 
Christiane Mbimbe Bossom, 
Group Corporate Communications Manager 
Email: groupcorporatecomms@ecobank.com
Tel: +228 22 21 03 03 

About Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (‘ETI’ or ‘The Group’): 
Ecobank Group is the leading private pan-African banking group with unrivalled African expertise. Present in 35 sub-Saharan African countries, as well as France, the UK, UAE and China, its unique pan-African platform provides a single gateway for payments, cash management, trade and investment. The Group employs over 15,000 people and offers Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking products, services and solutions across multiple channels, including digital, to over 32 million customers. For further information, please visit EcoBank.com.

Rhea is a dynamic agritech start-up that is revolutionizing soil health management with innovative IoT sensors, empowering smallholder farmers to practice precision agriculture for sustainable and profitable crop cultivation.

GITEX Africa 2024, was held in Marrakech, Morocco from May 29th to 31st, 2024. The event was an incredible platform for tech enthusiasts, startups, and industry leaders to converge, showcasing the dynamic growth and potential of Africa’s tech ecosystem.

Participating at GITEX AFRICA (https://apo-opa.co/45gfiHc) allowed Rhea (https://apo-opa.co/3Rinscm) to make meaningful connections with service providers who will be instrumental for our growth. The showcases by established market players were a source of invaluable learning and inspiration as we continue to build our vision.

Additionally, engaging in insightful conversations with ecosystem drivers has opened new avenues for collaboration and support. Rhea is looking forward to the days and months ahead, the organization is excited to foster collaborations with the connections that were made during GITEX Africa 2024.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.