Some take the Challenge in Africa

Fund managers casting their eyes on hot African ventures. Investing in Africa is still seen as a risky venture, but the quest for higher returns and margins makes this continent attractive for global investors in the long-term. Double digit returns in fixed income investments in selected countries can be attractive in the current low interest rate environment and provide some diversification. Diana Buraka with a report from Fund Forum Africa 2016 in London.

A few years ago one would wonder 'why' investing in Africa, whereas now the question is 'why not'. Considering the growing consumer demand and increasingly liberalised industries it is no surprise that Africa has become a popular destination for business investment. 

Diana Buraka, correspondent at FundForum Africa: "Investment in Africa is a very diverse topic. A broad range of views were presented at this year's FundForum Africa conference. Talking to delegates, fund managers and analysts here it was interesting to see the difference in perspective. Investors and managers based in Africa come up with an assessment which is in contrast to the views of international investors. Overall, Africa is still a continent of opportunities. New technologies, FinTech and innovation in energy and telecom markets as well as financial services represent substantial growth potential."

Liquidity is a challenge in Africa

But there are also enough reasons to be sceptical about Africa's sunny growth prospects. Besides corruption, political and systemic risks the number of businesses that are big enough to attract large private equity funds is still limited.

Even when managers have found a promising deal, the owners are often reluctant to give up control. And those who managed to spot the right company and improve its performance within a few years after buying it, struggle to exit by means of an IPO listing due to low liquidity on local stock markets.

Institutional investors face challenges in Africa

For an institutional investor in particular it is very challenging to extract money out of the country or repatriate dividends. This represents a significant risk.

"The biggest fear is getting your money out. Nigeria has imposed capital controls. Egypt has followed a similar approach. If you are an institutional investor or if you are a fiduciary acting on behalf of the pension holders or other investors, you just cannot take such kind of lock up risk in a liquid market. It is just too irresponsible investment, and this is a huge barrier in two of the most liquid markets on the continent" said Adam Choppin, Manager Research – International Equities, Investment Strategy, at FIS Group, Inc at the Fund Forum Africa 2016. 

Sound institutional set-up is key for development

Albert Reiter, CEO of e-fundresearch.com and investRFP.com who chaired a high-profile panel at FundForum Africa this year adds: "The institutional set-up in a number of countries is already well developed but the track-record of good governance is still short". Olusegun Omoniwa, Head of Managed Investments at the Wealth Management Unit of Standard Chartered in Nigeria confirms that there would be a good basis for development of strong local institutional markets: "The pension system in Nigeria is very similar to the one in Chile. Strong domestic institutions and a developed framework could stabilize markets in times of crisis."

Investors evaluate Frontier Markets in the search for yield

"Talking to institutional bond investors this week I hear that more and more investors start looking at frontier markets also in the search for yield. In the fixed income markets it makes sense to add a few percentage points of double-digit coupons in currencies which have underperformed recently", explains Albert Reiter from e-fundresearch.com.

The brave will take the risk

Besides the currency risks and plummeting commodity prices, political unrests have lowered the appetite of the more risk-averse fund managers. This may bring down the price tags of the overvalued companies and open up new opportunities for those who are brave enough to take the risk.

"The policies of the Zuma government in South Africa had a negative impact on growth but they've been unlucky with the economic cycle also. Both things happened at the same time and that's a rough cocktail to overcome. I don't see either of those things changing in the next year"added Adam Choppin by FIS Group, Inc.

More upside on the horizon

Despite some caution there was a rather optimistic outlook on investing in Africa during panel discussions at the FundForum Africa 2016. Stephan Breban, Investment Consultant at RisCura reminded that the biggest headwind for investments in Africa remains to be the misperception and a lack of knowledge also.

"The people will tell you about the oil price collapse, about the political instability, the currency instability, but the reality is, that the number one headwind for in Africa is misperception. People tell you that Africa is failing, but every problem you see is not unique and it was just repeated again. Probably the answer has already been found somewhere."

Entrepreneurship is Africa's biggest asset

South Africa is still an important power-house in Africa and home to very dynamic companies and entrepreneurs. With the right policies the country could return to growth. Although the current climate is rather defensive and there is talk about rating downgrades there is also reason to be optimistic.

Albert Reiter: "The most recent elections resulted in some surprises for a number of market participants. Herman Mashaba, the new mayor of Johannesburg who made his money as an entrepreneur in the hair-care business, was offered this job by the Democratic Alliance. He is one of the people to watch as he governs and manages a city of 5 million people - close to 10 percent of the country's population. If he succeeds it would be very promising for the future of the whole country. He is definitely one to take up the challenge."

Diana BurakaCorrespondent, Londone-fundresearch.com 

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Source: Some take the Challenge in Africa

KTM newbies feel Kerala is wow-package

KOCHI: Kerala could well be the next Mauritius on account of the diversity of tourism products and destinations offered by the state, said delegates from South Korea and South Africa, wowed by their first experience.

"Kerala can expect quite a stampede from South Africa very soon, now that we get to know what the destination offers," said Paula Job, a tour operator from South Africa.

"The state offers astounding variety of destinations from hill stations to beaches and adventure sports to tranquil retreats.It's an all-in-one package which is not as popular as it deserves to be in our part of the world," said Job.

Like Job, many of the new entrants pointed to the lack of proper marketing of Kerala tourism in their respective countries.

"The exposure that KTM provides for destination-oriented tourism is brilliant. The mart provides a stage for even smallscale enterprises and an assortment of choices for all kinds of buyers, which is wonderful.However, despite being the neighbouring country , China is acquainted only with traditions like Ayurveda and Yoga. Natural beauty of the state should be cornerstone of tourism marketing here," said Julie Hu from China. Delegates from Japan and South Korea said Kerala Tourism can effectively tap East Asian countries. "This is my fifth visit to India. But I've explored only the northern triangle of the country, as is the case with my colleagues. Given the potential of the state, proper marketing is bound to yield remarkable results," said Eunji Kim, delegate from South Korea. Responsible tourism, the focus of KTM 2016, is a driving factor for many of the new entrants, who signed up for the event. "Little was known to us about Kerala, but such a novel effort to promote sustainable and responsible tourism grabbed eyeballs and that is what has brought us here for this expo," said Tomasz Liptak, a Polish tour agent. The responsible tourism campaign drew a significant number of homestay and farm stay sellers as well, catering to the growing demand for eco and village tourism amongst international buyers at the event.
Source: KTM newbies feel Kerala is wow-package

Journey Around South Africa in 180 days with #TrekSouthAfrica

If you are looking to do some serious travelling - without even leaving home, then you may want to follow the #TrekSouthAfrica journey.

Six South Africans have embarked on a six-month adventure throughout South Africa, exploring the country's leading wilderness trails and hiking paths, in a bid to inspire people from all over the world to experience Mzansi's best attractions.

Dubbed the #TrekSouthAfrica project, the team will travel through all nine provinces, exploring 21 South African National Parks, 18 nature reserves and eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 180 days.

Sam Chevallier - game ranger, environmentalist and leader of the #TrekSouthAfrica project, hopes that by sharing their travel experiences, it will encourage more international travellers to make South Africa their chosen holiday destination.

"South Africa is known as the third most biologically diverse ecosystem in the world, there is also a rich diversity of languages and cultures. A large portion of the country's economy is based within tourism, with the majority of wildlife dependant on it - so through documenting our travels we hope to inspire people to experience South Africa."

Here's a little teaser video to win your interest.

How to follow #TrekSouthAfrica

The #TrekSouthAfrica team will be sharing all their imagery, video as well as 360-degree media of their experiences via Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. You can also follow them via an Instagram 'pop-up' account - which will only be available for the duration of their six month journey.

Source: Journey Around South Africa in 180 days with #TrekSouthAfrica

Kenyan Journalist Aggrey Mutambo Wins APO Invitation to Attend the Africa Hotel Investment Forum 2016 in Kigali

APO (www.APO-opa.com), the press release distribution service dedicated to Africa and the Middle East, and the global leader in media relations related to Africa and Middle East, today announced that reporter Aggrey Mutambo (@agmutambo) from Kenya has won APO's invitation to attend the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF) 2016, the leading hotel investment conference in Africa (www.Africa-Conference.com), to be held in Kigali, Rwanda, on 4-6 October 2016.

APO will offer one round trip ticket and accommodation in Kigali for Aggrey Mutambo to attend Africa Hotel Investment Forum.

"APO congratulates Aggrey and is proud to offer this opportunity to an experienced reporter with a rich background. APO offers invitations each year to major African events as part of our commitment to supporting journalism in Africa and creating opportunities for journalists to learn and grow across Africa," says Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and CEO of APO.

A trained journalist, Aggrey Mutambo joined the Nation Media Group in 2009 and currently writes for the Daily Nation. He holds a Masters Degree in Diplomacy from the Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies, University of Nairobi.

Each year APO offers journalists the opportunity to attend major African events such as the African Development Bank Annual Meeting and AfricaCom as a part of its commitment to supporting journalism in Africa.

For instance, the three previous recipients of the AfricaCom invitation were science journalist Aimable Twahirwa from Rwanda (http://apo.af/nsQpxT), journalist John Churu from Botswana (http://apo.af/QpEYBG) and  journalist Lilian Murugi Mutegi (http://apo.af/OObhll).

APO also sponsors the APO Energy Media Award (http://apo.af/IVnNJR) and the APO Media Award (http://apo.af/erwHiu) where a journalist wins $500 a month for one year, one laptop and one intercontinental flight ticket to a destination of his or her choice as well as one year of access to over 600 airport VIP lounges.

More information about Africa Hotel Investment Forum: www.Africa-Conference.com

Distributed by APO on behalf of APO.

About APO: APO (http://www.APO-opa.com ) owns and manages Africa Wire® and MENA Wire®, the press release distribution services dedicated to Africa and the Middle East. Founded in 2007, APO is the sole press release wire in Africa, and the global leader in media relations related to Africa and the Middle East.  With offices in Senegal, Switzerland, Dubai, APO has a media database comprising over 150,000 contacts in Africa, 45,000 in the MENA region, and is the main online community for news relating to Africa. It offers a complete range of services, including press release distribution and monitoring, online press conferences, interactive webcasts, media interactions, strategic advice, public diplomacy, government relations and events promotion. To find out more, please visit www.APO-opa.com .

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/apo_source  Follow us on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/african-press-organization   Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/africanpressorganization 

Source: Kenyan Journalist Aggrey Mutambo Wins APO Invitation to Attend the Africa Hotel Investment Forum 2016 in Kigali

Eco-projects to recognise KZN South Coast as a ‘great birding destination’

If southern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) was once a Cinderella birding destination in this birder's paradise of a province, recent developments are changing this, reports the South Coast Herald.

Thanks to various eco-projects, birders and birding photographers are beginning to find out that the diverse and interesting birdlife in this corner of the world has been somewhat overlooked.

Local birders pointed out that birding and bird photography were pastimes that were growing exponentially worldwide and that KZN's South Coast was fast positioning itself to take advantage of this lucrative ecotourism trend.

ALSO READ: Driver dies after crashing into Jacaranda tree

First came Birdlife South Africa's Southern KwaZulu-Natal birding route, which highlighted the fact that our good mix of habitats, including coast, wetland, forest, woodland and grassland, made the South Coast a winner from a birding point of view.

Popular local birding hotspots highlighted by this project include Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve near Umzinto, Umdoni Park near Scottburgh, Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve and Lake Eland in the Oribi area, Ivungu River Nature Reserve in Uvongo, Mpenjati Nature Reserve near Trafalgar and Umtamvuna Nature Reserve near Port Edward.

To enhance its birding routes, Birdlife South Africa started a very successsful training programme for birding guides.

For the South Coast, the next big step towards gaining recognition as a great birding destination was the construction of the Barry Porter Memorial Hide overlooking a Cape vulture feeding station on private property in the Oribi area. Originally a Birdlife Trogons project, it is now administered by project coordinator Andy Ruffle.

He said the success of the hide had exceeded all expectations and that it was attracting hundreds of birders, photographers and nature lovers not only from South Africa but from all over the world.

"It is a major South Coast tourist attraction in this area. Many South African and international visitors come here specifically to see the vultures. The Oribi Cape vulture colony is world famous," Ruffle said.

A new South Coast birding initiative, the Umkhobi Lagoon bird hide in Marina Beach, is also boosting this area's reputation as an eco-destination. It is proving very popular with South Coast wildlife photographers, whose wonderful photographs taken from the hide are causing a stir on various websites. With a number of shots going viral, bird photographers from all over the world are asking how to access this new hide.

ALSO READ: Lions Clubs spread warmth to people on the streets

Both the popular bird hides are serving another, less obvious but very important function. They are being used as educational tools, teaching children and adults to appreciate their environment and to realise that everything in nature in an important link in the chain of life – even the vultures, which are often misunderstood.

Visiting birders can find out more by contacting Bird Life Trogons chairman Sandra Olver at 039 9761869 or 083 7961869 or sandra111@scottburgh.co.za

They can also look at birdlifetrogons.blogspot or the Southern KZN Birding Route website at birdlife.org.za/get-involved/join-birdlife-south-africa

For information about the vulture hide contact Andy at 072 8933794 or bookings.vulturehide@yahoo.co.za or vulturehide.blogspot.co.za

The Oribi Vulture Viewing Hide facebook group can be reached at facebook.com/groups/oribivulturehide and the Oribi Vulture Viewing Hide facebook page can be reached at facebook.com/Mzimkuluvultures

– Caxton News Service

Source: Eco-projects to recognise KZN South Coast as a 'great birding destination'

Africa Travel Awards to celebrate the best of Travels in Africa

The 2016 edition of Africa Travel Awards will kick off on Monday 19th September with the release of the questionnaire online for Africans to choose what they consider the best players on the Travel and Tourism Landscape in Africa.

A pan African committee of Travel Professionals from different countries in Africa Drew up a Shortlist of nominees to be voted for by The public. The criteria for the choices were listed alongside the Nominees.  http://atqnews.com/akwaaba2016.html

Africa Travel Awards promoted by the online Africa Travel News website www.atqnews.com will be having its 4th outing. The awards will be coming up on the 30th of October at the Travellers Night Dinner at Akwaaba African Travel Market.22 awards will be given out by the Awards. The committee members are drawn from East , West, South and central Africa and it is not surprising that most of the Nominees are from Sub Saharan Africa.

The committee members include…Denis Gathanju, a passionate journalist and photographer based in East Africa. He travels the length and breath of the continent to capture the very best of the African life, culture and sights. He is also a tourism promoter within the East African region. He is a founder of Safari Communications, a company that publishes national tourism guidebooks for a number of African countries as well as producing corporate marketing material for tourism companies in the private sector.

Sandra IDOSSOU is an Afropolitan hotelier, trainer, mystery shopper, consultant, writer, author, traveler, publisher who has been expatriate in 8 African countries since 2000.very passionate about everything African, Quality of Service, Hospitality, Branding, Sales & Marketing, Communication, Consumers rights, Capacity Building especially among youth and entrepreneurs.

She has trained people in more than 21 African countries and have travelled across 31 countries in Africa and in all continents, a multi cultured person that speak 7 languages.Her numerous travellings throughout Africa have made her realize the great opportunities the continent has and have become an advocate for anything than can positively brand Africa.

The company specialises on training for the hospitality and Service Industry on customer relationship, Sales, Marketing and Mystery Shopping. In Rwanda www.theservicemag.com publishes a free educative business magazine aimed at providing hands-on articles to business owners and top managers that support them in becoming more competitive. She also consult on Corporate Communication, branding and social media. She is a strong believer of Africa's potential and a great advocate of all things "African"

Chiquita Afuluenu Johnson is the former National Tourism Consultant for the Republic of Liberia and CEO of West Tourism Management. Launched in 2015, this boutique tour operator is known for providing unique experiences in African destinations with special focus on luxury, responsible tourism, and tourism investment relations. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, along with a BSc in Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management from Penn State University, and an Advance Diploma in Travel & Tourism from The Institute of Travel & Tourism The Gambia, it is truly safe to say that hospitality and tourism is her greatest passion, most especially in the African context.

Monique Swart who is the Founder of the African Business Travel Association (ABTA). She has worked within the association environment for the corporate travel industry for 17 years after initially starting her career with the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) in 1999. Monique is known as an expert 'connector' and assists travel professionals to build their network across Africa by connecting them with their peers and potential partners and clients through ABTA education and networking events. ABTA is the only association of its kind in Africa focusing purely on the Corporate travel industry and is active in Angola, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa.

Other members Include Ali Diouf an Experienced Journalist from Senegal, Sheikh Tejan an Experienced Tourism Administrator from The Gambia. Charity Githinju a travel expert based in Tanzania. Siphelele Luthuliis a travel consultant and communication expert from South Africa. Khomotso Kelsall also a South African Based Travel Consultant. From Uganda is Barbra Adoso a leading Tour Operator, Nancy Sam Quartey from Ghana. Other Tour Operators include Benin Republic based Olanma Ojukwu, Ms. Josephine Fifi Rurangwa,Rwandan national, born in Uganda, she is the Head of Africa Expansion of Wakanow.com. Kenya based Rwandan Operator. Rwanda based Catherine Mutuale, Nigeria based Atinuke Nwakohu. Kenyan Annet Nashipae are all Travel consultantsThe Ghanaian Journalist Samuel Doe is joined by Nigerian Blogger Olori Supergal and Tunis Silas from The Gambia.Some of the short listed Nominees include

A. African award for Sustainable Tourism.This award is to any group or destination that is involved in best practices in Sustainable tourism as a way of encouraging others to emulate and improve.1. Libassa Ecolodge, Liberia. 2. Rwanda Tourism. 3. Seychelles

B. Best Business Class in Africa (restricted only to African Airlines)1. Kenya Airways. 2. South African Airways. 3. Ethiopian Airlines.

C. Best Economy Class in Africa( restricted to only African Airlines)Kenya Airways. 2. South African Airways. 3. Ethiopian Airlines. 4. RwandAir.

D. Airline with the Best inflight service in Africa (restricted to only African Airlines)1. Ethiopian Airlines 2. Kenya Airways. 3. RwandAir.

E. Most Passenger friendly Airport in Africa.This is Self explanatory and doesn't go to the biggest or grandest Airport but to that Airport that provides the best travel experience to passengers.1. Banjul Airport, Gambia. 2. OR Tambo Airport, Jo'burg, South Africa. 3. Cape Town Airport, South Africa. 4. Kotoka Airport, Accra Ghana. 5. Lome Airport, Togo.

F. African Aviation Personality.This is to an individual, an institution or product that best exemplifies great Aviation innovation or great value in Africa that has played a great role in growing Aviation in Africa.1. Carla Da Silva. Air Mauritius 2. John Mirenge . RwandAir.

G. Best Airline in AfricaThis award is to the Airline that has given the best in Services, connections and good value for money to Travellers within and outside Africa.1.Ethiopian Airlines. 2. Qatar. 3. Turkish

H. Best short haul Airline in AfricaThis is to all the regional Airlines without intercontinental connections that fly to distances of about 4hours or less.1. RwandAir. 2. Kulula. 3. ASKY . 4. SAA.

I. Best online Booking platform in Africa1.Wakanow.com. 2. Kenya Airways.3. Tala Tours Ghana. 4. Travelstart. 5. Jumia Travels.

J. Tourism Marketing Award ( for Marketing within Africa)1. South Africa Tourism. 2. Magical Kenya.

K. Best International Airline in Africa( for Non African Airlines)This award includes all international Airlines that fly into Africa.1.Turkish Airlines 2.Qatar Airways. 3. Brussels.

L . Best Business Hotel in Africa1.Villa Rosa Kempinski, Kenya. 2. The Maslow Hotel, Jo'burg , South Africa. 3. Radisson Blu, Dakar, Senegal. 4. Coconut Grove, Accra, Ghana

M. Best Resort in Africa.1.Maia Resort & Spa Seychelles, 2. Hotel Palace Royal Garden Tunisia. 3. Kempinski Ole Mara, Kenya

N. Best African Hotel chain (owned by an African registered Company )Based on quality of service, Perception and value for money1. Serena Hotels 2.Protea Hotel. 3. Sun International . 4. Azalal Hotel

O. Best Hotel chain in Africa( this is open to all hotels operating in Africa)Based on quality of service, Perception and value for money.1. Serena 2. Starwood Hotels. 3. Tsogo Sun/Southern Sun . 4. Radisson

P. Hotel of the year(all hotels qualify)1. The Maslow Hotel, Jo'burg South Africa. 2. Villa Rosa Kempinski, Nairobi, Kenya 3.Radisson Kigali. Rwanda . 4 . Table Bay Cape Town, South Africa

Q. Best Tourism Minister in Africa – the award goes to recognize the endeavors of a tourismminister from Africa who has played a significant role in not only driving the tourism agenda of his/her country, but also helping forge ties between African nations with a view to enhancing regional tourism.1. Mrs. Elizabeth Ofosu-Agyare from Ghana. 2. Walter Mzembi from Zimbabwe 3. Fatou mas Jobe Njie from Gambia 4. Allain St. Ange from Seychelles

R. African Tourism Personality – the award goes to recognize the work(s) of a tourism professional and/or institution in Africa that has played a critical role in advancing the tourism agenda. The scope of the works could be anything from wildlife conservation, advocacy to eco-tourism et al. The said person can be from either the public of private sector, but NOT an activist of whatever kind.1.Late Ms. Belinda Mutihiri from Zimbabwe 2. Adama Bah from The Gambia. 3. Carmen Nigibira 4. Minister Malusa Gigaba from South Africa

S .Best Emerging Destination – this award will seek to identify a new and emerging tourism destination in Africa. This could be a country or a tourism circuit within a country or that transcends international boundaries. Facts to consider will be tourism potential of the destination and its impact to the people around the said destination .1.Ghana .2 Rwanda. 3 Diani, Kenya

T .Best Tourism Blog/Blogger – 1. Kojo Bentum of Tourist Watch – Ghana, 2. Charlie Beauvoiser Diary of a muzungu Based in Uganda, 3. Natalia Rosa of Big Ambitions Based in South Africa

U. African Culture Award1. Carnival Calabar, Nigeria.2. Kwita Izina, Rwanda 3. Seychelles Carnival

V. African Restaurant of the year.1. Pili pili, Cotonou, Benin. 2. La Tante, Accra, Ghana. 3. Country Kitchen , Accra, Ghana. 4. The Tasting Room at La Quartier Francaise, Cape Town, South Africa

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Source: Africa Travel Awards to celebrate the best of Travels in Africa

Urbanisation in Africa: a blessing or a curse?

Leapfrogging has been Africa's prominent strategy towards dominating the global territory. Africa's burgeoning global image as a top destination for investment is fostering a massive inflow of Foreign Direct Investment into the continent. Countries' progressive strides in implementing growth strategies — such as Rwanda in executing its 2020 vision — have proven that focus and positive determination by government and business leaders can achieve tremendous growth within Africa. Tanzania's economy is estimated to grow by 7.2 percent in 2016, compared to 7 percent from last year. With the success of sectors such as financial technology, Africa proves that it could join developed economies in creating endogenous growth.

Africa's prospect for growth is very positive despite current economic trends. A recently released Mckinsey Global Institute Report (Lions on the move II: Realizing the Potentials of African Economies) reveals that Africa's real GDP growth dropped to 3.3 percent a year between 2010 and 2015, compared to 5.4 percent between 2000 and 2010. Looking critically at the cause of the decline, the political turmoil in Northern Africa and drop in oil prices led to the growth decline in the continent.

Oil-exporting economies in Africa contribute 40 percent of Africa's GDP. These oil exporting countries in Africa had a decline in GDP growth from 7.3 percent yearly between 2000 and 2010 to 4.0 percent between 2010 and 2015. Arab Spring countries such as Egypt, Libya, and Tunisia accounting for 18 percent had no growth between 2010 and 2015, compared to 4.8 percent GDP growth between 2000 and 2010. Despite this decline, research reveals that the prospects for growth within African economies are still high. By 2025, Africa is expected to double its manufacturing output; $2.1 trillion would be spent on household consumption and $3.5 trillion on Business to Business (B2B) in Africa.

Taking a cue in the development of Africa, it's important to critically analyse the factors that led to the current level of the continent's economic growth. It's also significant to determine whether these catalysts can adequately lead Africa to achieve its projected potentials.

Realizing Africa's Potential

Research has shown that Africa's move towards industrialization and infrastructural development has led to mass migration from rural areas to urban centres. Citizens and their search for better education, higher incomes, healthcare facilities, good roads, and water have led millions to leave villages and small towns for cities. Foreign migration into these cities has also being a reason for rapid urbanization growth. Cities like Cairo, Lagos, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Johannesburg have experienced a rapid increase in the population over the years. Lagos, whose population was about 1.4 million in 1970, is currently estimated at 21 million in 2016. The city's population is expected to double by 2050.

Africa is the world's fastest urbanizing region. Over the next decade, the meteoric rise in economic growth is estimated to increase the number of citizens in African cities by 187 million. It is also estimated that between 2015 and 2045, an average of 24 million additional people is projected to live in cities each year, compared with 11 million in India and nine million in China.

In several parts of the world, urbanization has been accompanied by industrialization and economic development, as increases in productivity in manufacturing and services benefited from proximity and concentration of activities and inputs.

Is Africa's urbanization target achievable?

Africa has the potential to achieve its forecasts of rapid growth and industrialization. However, the continent's industrialization projections are questionable because there are several limitations to the achievement of these goals. The African dream could be achieved if some of these issues could be improved upon:

Revenue base of African countries

African countries still have low mediums of generating revenue. Statistics reveal that tax collection is relatively low in Africa as compared to other regions. In Nigeria, analysts reveal that 70 percent of the country's GDP does not generate revenue. This is also evident in other African economies; Angola, Kenya, and Ghana's tax revenues are lower than 12 percent of their GDPs.

Life insurance and pension funds remain underutilized in Africa. In 2013, life insurance premiums amounted to two percent of GDP, compared with an average of 4.3 percent in OECD countries. Out of this two percent, South Africa accounts for 90 percent of the continent's life insurance business by volume.

Pension funds amounted to 28 percent of GDP in 2014. In Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria, the percentage of GDP was less than 15 percent. Increasing the utilization of these investment vehicles could boost domestic investment by approximately $55 billion yearly by 2025, which is 65 percent higher than 2014 levels.

African countries need to diversify. The slump in commodity prices globally proved the instability of top exporting countries within the continent.  Diversification aids the increase in revenue channels for the government to boost growth and development.

Africa's infrastructural state

Outside South Africa and North Africa, Africa spends only 1.3 percent of GDP on infrastructure. The saddening figure reveals that minimal efforts are being made to facilitate the improvement of infrastructure on the continent. Infrastructural deficits are a major cause of the high costs of production in most areas within Africa. Africa needs to double its infrastructural investments from $80 billion in 2015 to $150 billion in 2025 to reduce this deficit and to meet our industrialisation growth target.

Roads in Africa are still poorly connected. Africa has the worst road network of all regions globally. High transport costs add to the high fragmentation of the continent. Transportation costs from West Africa to the United States are twice those of other regions. It takes more than 40 days for goods to pass the border in Africa; less than half that time in Latin America. For landlocked countries, the constraints are even bigger.

Africa's housing deficit is a big cause for concern. Africa's most populous country, Nigeria, currently faces a housing deficit of over 19 million houses. The estimated number is set to increase due to the inflow of new urbanites within the next decade. Housing facilities would be needed for an estimated 190 million expected to migrate to urban cities by 2025.

Regulatory standards and legal frameworks in Africa

The bureaucratic nature of most African economies has slowed the pace of development within these economies. Governments need to improve the process of approving projects to boost the pace at which projects are executed.

John G. Rice, Global Vice Chairman of General Electric (GE), in a panel of the World Economic Forum on Africa held in May 2016 said, "We are working on an Emergency Power Project in Ghana that is taking us 16 months to get to the purchase price agreement approval by parliament. That's an "emergency power project". I don't know how long it will take if it wasn't an emergency project."

In Nigeria, the Treasury Single Account (TSA) was introduced in 2012 by the Federal Government. The financial policy was however not implemented till 2015 by President Muhammadu Buhari's administration. Even after implementation, SystemSpecs, the company that created and manages the TSA through their payment platform – Remita – are still in a feud with the federal government over their payment agreement. John Tani-Obaro, the Managing Director of SystemSpecs, complained about the situation. He said in August 2016 that "it has been 17 months of working without getting paid."

Political interests and short-term expediencies have stalled the development of projects within the continent. This reflects in the low Public Private Partnerships in Africa which is estimated at 4.5 percent in the region.

Regulatory standards also have to be improved upon to ensure the quality of processes and products are in line with the authorized criteria. Last Thursday, the BBC reported that "dirty fuel" is been sold by Swiss commodity companies to African countries. These unethical practices are seen around Africa and they stifle the efforts of indigenous companies in competition with global companies.

The textile industry in Nigeria was a victim of poor regulations. Cheap and poor quality materials brought into the country affected the indigenous companies whose prices could not compete with those foreign products. Regulatory standards require more thoroughness to help grow companies within the continent.

African economies need to improve on bureaucratic processes in order to eliminate inefficiencies and speed up the rate of development within the region.

A blessing or a curse?

Africa's rapid growth in development raises the argument whether Africa is adequately prepared or not. The non-preparation for this growth poses a big threat to the sustainability and livelihoods of Africans living within these communities.

Africa's leap towards urbanization growth would pose great challenges. In an interview with Ventures Africa, Chidiogo Akunyili, Senior Manager, Global Shapers Community, Africa & Global Leadership Fellow at the World Economic Forum said that "attention should be on concrete measures to mitigate against the potential challenges of rapid urbanisation and support the many benefits of, not least of all, its contribution to growth". These potential challenges need to be addressed as growth increases, some which are highlighted below:

Traffic and internal congestion

The traffic problem in African cities is a big problem for the continent. Traffic congestion affects the health of citizens. Traffic congestion reduces the productivity of citizens within cities and this leads to a loss of potential revenue that cities could generate. In Kenya, World Health Organisation estimates that 13, 000 Kenyan citizens lose their lives to road traffic accidents yearly. It is estimated that Kenya loses about 50 million shillings daily due to unproductivity caused by traffic congestions.

On Mondays in Ikeja, Lagos, the traffic is usually at a standstill for hours. Transports cost are usually doubled, and sometimes, scores of Lagosians are forced to trek to their destinations. Some African cities have seen reduced traffic congestions. However, these cities are still slow in creating and maintaining transport systems to cater for their fast growth.

Traffic congestion in Capetown

Climate change, flooding and drought

Flooding has been a major crisis that Africa has battled with over the years. The continent has experienced excessive flooding throughout 2016; being estimated as the highest rate in 50 years.

South Sudan has experienced 98 deaths and over 200,000 people have been affected by flooding in only 2016. On Tuesday it was reported that in Jigawa state, Nigeria, 18 people have died and 6,637 houses have been destroyed as a result of flooding during this rainy season. Poor drainage systems, poor sewage disposal habits, and poor structural plans (illegal structures) have led to the increase in flooding in cities.

In July, it was reported that a flooding incident that occurred in Cape Town and Durban led to a death toll of 9 people. Between 10,000 and 15,000 people were affected by the flood.

A major cause of this extreme flooding situation is climate change. Climate change has been a major discussion among policy circles. Forums such as the United Nations Climate Change Conference have increased the commitments of African leaders towards reducing the effect of climate change on the continent. However, more efforts need to be placed by political leaders and organisations towards climate change in Africa. Drought, desertification, flooding and other extreme weather changes are areas that need proper planning.

Beijing's climate dilemma is a situation for Africa to learn from. The blanketing effect of smog within the city has affected the affect the productivity and health of the citizens. China's slow action towards solving the issue should be a warning on effective planning towards the threats of climate change in Africa.

Flooding in Lagos

Technology

Technology has greatly helped in boosting the economic growth in Africa. The success of mobile money, smartphones, and Internet penetration has pushed the growth of the African economy and also boosted social inclusion. Technology has also improved production processes by providing more efficient operations systems resulting in increased profitability and reduction in unemployment.

Arguments have been made in favour and against the effect of technology on enhancing sustainable development globally. The emergence of technological breakthroughs in the areas of artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things, autonomous vehicles, 3D printing, nanotechnology, biotechnology, materials science, energy storage, and quantum computing have changed the mode of living globally. Fears have arisen that the rapid pace of technological innovations could reduce the availability of employment opportunities.

In Africa, the worries are greater because of the high illiteracy rate and slow pace of educational growth. Analysts predict that the future would be taken over by fully automated processes reducing the number of jobs within the continent.

The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) globally reflects the rising pace of technology improvements in production processes and development. Focusing on economies with large populations such as China, massive retrenchments have been undertaken based on the growth of AI. Foxconn, Apple's production partner in China in 2016, reduced their workforce from 1.1 million to 500,000 staff by replacing them with robots. In India, Wipro threatened it could sack 3000 engineers due to the company's business automation process. Companies looking towards improving profitability are replacing human labour machines to boost productivity efficiency.

The need for companies to improve productivity efficiency and profitability is beneficial to business growth. However, when this growth favours only a few within the economy and discourages financial inclusiveness, then there this is cause for concern. Africa is faced with the dilemma of embracing the fourth industrial revolution and providing employment opportunities to its over 1.2 billion population.

The sporadic rate of technological innovations calls for the determination of whether Africa would embrace absolute adoption of technological waves or governments will focus on how technology can be adopted sustainably within the continent to enable the disruptive blessing of urbanisation to not be a curse.

The need for urgency

Africa's rapid growth stresses the urgent need for broad strategic sustainability plans by all stakeholders to accommodate the fast development of the continent.  As Chidiogo said, "As long as infrastructural development and access to basic housing, water, electricity, roads, schools, hospitals, government services, markets and so on do not keep up with population growth, the cities in question will literally crumble under their overflowing load to a shell of their full potential."

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Source: Urbanisation in Africa: a blessing or a curse?

The 10 cheapest exotic holiday destinations outside of Europe

GETTY

EXOTIC: The Post Office Travel Money has revealed the cheapest long-haul destinations

Venturing outside of Europe can be an expensive exercise, but going to far-flung places doesn't have to break the bank.

To help travellers budget, the Post Office Travel Money compares the cost of travel items in destinations around the world to find the cheapest places for a long-haul holiday.

The report compares the cost of everyday items including the price of coffee, beer, water, suncream, insect repellent, and a three-course dinner for two with a bottle of wine.

From idyllic beach resorts in Mauritius to city breaks in Tokyo, the result of the ninth annual report might shock you.

The extensive list revealed that Cape Town in South Africa is by far the best value long-haul destination.

*** The cheapest holiday destinations in the WORLD revealed *** 

10 cheapest exotic holiday destinations travel summer 2016 in pictures

The adventurous city will set you back just £48.89 a day, according to the latest statistics.

In second place was Bali, with a daily cost of just £62.56. And with breathtaking beaches, ancient temples and vibrant rainforests, it's day to see why the island in the Indonesian province is so poplar with British tourists.

Bali actually held the top spot for the past three years, but has slipped back a place after a 30% rise in local prices and a 50% rise in eating out.

Surprisingly Tokyo was named as the third cheapest destination, with an averagely daily spend totting up to just £63.87.

Here is the full list of the 10 cheapest exotic holiday destinations:

1. Cape Town, South Africa — £48.89

GETTY

ADVENTUROUS: A visit to Table Mountain is a must while in Cape Town

Coffee: £1.10

Beer: £1.37

Bottle of water: £0.66

Suncream: £6.58

Insect repellent: £4.38

3-course dinner with wine: £27.40

2. Bali, Indonesia — £62.56

GETTY

RELAX: A visit to Table Mountain is a must while in Cape Town

Coffee: £1.57

Beer: £1.06

Bottle of water: £0.31

Suncream: £10.99

Insect repellent: £0.63

3-course dinner with wine: £37.58

3. Tokyo, Japan — £63.87

GETTY

VIBRANT: Tokyo is the third cheapest long-haul destination

Coffee: £2.06

Beer: £4.13

Bottle of water: £1.61

Suncream: £3.04

Insect repellent: £4.11

3-course dinner with wine: £39.79

4. Mombasa, Kenya — £69.41

GETTY

BLISS: Chill on the beautiful beaches of Mombasa

best beaches world trip advisor Carribean in pictures

Coffee: £1.59

Beer: £1.99

Bottle of water: £1.08

Suncream: £11.16

Insect repellent: £3.19

3-course dinner with wine: £41.85

5. Colombo, Sri Lanka — £70.61

GETTY

WILD: Visit the elephant sancturary in Colombo

Coffee: £1.27

Beer: £2.16

Bottle of water: £0.69

Suncream: £4.90

Insect repellent: £4.04

3-course dinner with wine: £46.12

6. Cancun, Mexico — £74.26

GETTY

FOODIE: Feast on tacos and swim in the sea in beautiful Cancun

Coffee: £1.89

Beer: £2.07

Bottle of water: £0.78

Suncream: £8.23

Insect repellent: £3.53

3-course dinner with wine: £44.79

7. Phuket, Thailand — £75.72

GETTY

POPULAR: Phuket is one of Brits' favourite holiday hotspots

Coffee: £1.38

Beer: £1.72

Bottle of water: £0.47

Suncream: £3.62

Insect repellent: £2.02

3-course dinner with wine: £57.44

8. Lima, Peru — £78.52

GETTY

CULTURAL: Lima in Peru is a wonderful mixture of old and new

Coffee: £2.91

Beer: £2.42

Bottle of water: £1.45

Suncream: £12.12

Insect repellent: £4.85

3-course dinner with wine: £43.63

9. Orlando, US — £79.76 

GETTY

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Coffee: £1.52

Beer: £3.80

Bottle of water: £1.52

Suncream: £6.08

Insect repellent: £3.80

3-course dinner with wine: £49.44

10. Grand Baie, Mauritius — £83.70

GETTY

HEAVEN: Mauritius is a dream honeymoon destination and the 10th cheapest long-haul hotspot

Coffee: £1.72

Beer: £2.86

Bottle of water: £1.52

Suncream: £13.04

Insect repellent: £4.24

3-course dinner with wine: £49.26

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Source: The 10 cheapest exotic holiday destinations outside of Europe

The amazing destination no one cares about

There's this amazing destination, and it's about a 14-hour direct flight from the east coast of Australia.

Cape Town's iconic Camps Bay beach. Photo: iStock

Just a 14-hour direct flight from the east coast of Australia: Cape Town. Photo: iStock

The Kalahari Desert, Namibia

The view from Tabletop Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa. Photo: iStock

exit

There's this amazing destination, and it's about a 14-hour direct flight from the east coast of Australia.

That's the same as LA, or Dubai. It's closer than Lima or Rio de Janeiro. Far closer than London or New York. And the flights are cheap, too – keep an eye out for fares and you'll get one for less than $1500 return.

And when you take that flight, you'll arrive somewhere like no other place in the world. You'll find a mix of cultures; a mix of landscapes. You'll find a destination that feels completely foreign, and yet strangely recognisable. And it's so cheap – at least half the price of Australia for everything.

You can swan about in fancy hotels there, or you can camp out under the stars. You can eat at some of the world's best restaurants, or you can cook your own food over a fire. You can surf, or hike, or drive, or cycle, or jump off high things, or just hang out at a bar. It's great.

And yet the weird thing is that Australians don't care about it. They don't go there, and they're not interested.

See also: Best travel destinations for 2016

This amazing place is southern Africa. Though you, like most Australians, are probably not interested in going there, or maybe even hearing about it. I had to trick you with the headline of this story just to make you read it. What gives?

Australians just aren't big on travelling to countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Mozambique. Stories on those destinations on Traveller.com.au don't get half as many reads as places like New York or Bali. And those destinations never go anywhere near the top 10 destinations that Australians like to visit.

I've just returned from a month spent driving and camping around southern Africa, and you know how many fellow Australians I met in that entire time? Two. I met hundreds of Germans, and Swiss, and Dutch, and even a few Americans and Canadians. But pretty much no Australians whatsoever, even in world-famous tourist destinations such as Cape Town, Etosha National Park and the Okavango Delta.

Compare that to the experience you'd have in Peru, or Vietnam, or the UAE, or Italy. You'd bump into loads of your compatriots, whether you wanted to or not.

But no one cares about southern Africa.

It seems crazy to me. These are legitimately some of the best destinations on the planet, and we don't visit. They're affordable and accessible. There's no language barrier. They're also extremely friendly and surprisingly safe - Namibia and Botswana both get the Smart Traveller's green "exercise normal safety precautions" stamp of approval, while even South Africa is only rated a yellow "high degree of caution".

Read also: The island where the earth will move for you

And yet, when I announced I was going to southern Africa for a month, a few friends asked me, completely seriously, if I was taking a gun. To shoot what? People? Elephants? Lions?

The only explanation I can come up with for Australian travellers' lack of a care factor over southern Africa is that it has an image problem here. People think of it as this violent, scary place. Which it's not. They associate it with things like Ebola, even though London is closer to the source of that outbreak than Cape Town. They think malaria will get them, which also isn't true.

People seem intimidated by southern Africa, thinking you'd never want to drive yourself around there, never want to risk camping there, or going out on the town there. But that's just a weird assumption that Australians seem to make. The Germans don't think that way, and neither do the Swiss nor the Dutch. They're all driving around there with little to no experience, having a ball.

Maybe Australians also haven't got their heads around what's so great about southern Africa. Maybe they're not picturing the wide-open spaces, the landscapes that go from barren desert to savannah plains to coastal beauty. They're not thinking about places like the Okavango Delta and Kruger, or Etosha and the Kalahari, places you can visit for a very small amount of money and have the time of your life.

Read also: The home of perfect coffee, but they can't make a decent cup

A week ago, I was sitting around a campfire in Botswana, drinking a whisky, when an elephant wandered in to our little clearing, rubbed itself up against a tree, munched on a few leaves, and then disappeared into the darkness. And that's just a normal thing.

And then you have Cape Town, where you can dine at Luke Dale-Roberts' restaurant, The Test Kitchen, which was just named number 22 in the world by the 50 Best, or you can hang out at the Woodstock markets with all the hipsters. You can tour wineries in Franschhoek.

You can go dune-bashing near Swakopmund in Namibia.

You can explore the colonial architecture of Maputo in Mozambique.

I'm not saying these experiences are necessarily better than those you'd have in, say, Japan, or Peru, or Italy. But they're up there. Easily up there. Which makes you wonder why no one cares about southern Africa.

Have you travelled in southern Africa? Did you meet many Australians? Why aren't more people interested in going there?

Email: b.groundwater@fairfaxmedia.com.au

Instagram: instagram.com/bengroundwater

See also: Three amazing countries tourists won't go to

See also: The one dish you won't be able to eat

The story The amazing destination no one cares about first appeared on The Sydney Morning Herald.

Source: The amazing destination no one cares about

Africa becomes dumping ground for old aircraft

Business News of Tuesday, 20 September 2016

Source: B&FT

2016-09-20

File photo

Just like other products, Africa has become a scrapyard for aircraft that have outlived their usefulness in Europe, Thabani Mthiyane, CEO of South Africa's Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) has said, calling on leaders on the continent to take their seat at the decision making table.

In an interview with the B&FT in Accra, Thabani Mthiyane, who is also the Vice Chair of the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), said the irony of the situation is that after dumping such aircraft in Africa, western countries ban them from flying to their territories.

"If you look at the Chapter 2 aircraft as far as the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations is concerned, they are banned from Europe. The worst part is that most of these aircraft are actually coming from Europe. They use Africa as a dumping zone. So once they don't need them they bring them here and tell us you can't fly them to the West."

The chapter two aircraft are deemed to emit more pollution and have higher noise levels than modern fleet of planes, by ICAO experts. They are mostly older subsonic jet aeroplanes.

"We need to take our position at the top table and not allow Europe and other Western countries make a decision for us," Thabani Mthiyane, who was appointed to the CANSO Council only this year said.

"…it is important to have African representatives on Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), because you find out that the decisions taken out there are made to favour the Western States."

The European Union regularly updates its blacklist of banned airlines and planes which do not meet its regulatory standards.

This EU blacklist includes nearly 300 airlines and aircraft that are either banned from flying into the EU or only able to fly to the EU under certain restrictions. More than 18 airlines or planes are on the EU's banned list.

Aside the restrictive prohibition on the operation of seemingly old aircraft from the continent to Europe, there are still challenges with intra-Africa connectivity.

Henok Tefferra, Managing Director of ASKY Airlines, which operates within Africa, is of the view that connectivity gaps still exist in West Africa for two reasons: one, because the aviation policy environment is not very conducive, and two, because operation costs are high.

"To be very frank, you still have traffic rights restrictions. I, for example, cannot fly as many times as I want, to all the destinations that I want," he said.

"There are still restrictions which I don't understand because over 20 years ago, the Yamasukuro decision was adopted by the leaders of Africa, liberalising African skies for African airlines, especially fifth freedom. But implementation has been slow.

The African Union wants to create a single African aviation market which we support, we want to push, but fragmented and the traffic right restri ction is a very difficult issue, the environment is not conducive."

He added that: "Secondly, the cost of environment in West and Central Africa is prohibitive. Why is it that the cost of over-flying here is twice as expensive as in East Africa? Why is it that ground handling is 30-40 percent more expensive here? Why is it that the same aircraft fuel which I know aircraft everywhere consume is 20- 30 percent more expensive here?

In the sub-region, he argued, aviation is considered "a luxury sector," and a "cash cow," a reason governments slap innumerable taxes it and render it uncompetitive.

"With that mindset, aviation in this part of the world will have difficulty in providing initial air connectivity; it is not conducive."

Source: Africa becomes dumping ground for old aircraft

Final Destination: Maintaining a Heavenly Mindset

Some time ago my wife and I flew to Europe from our home in South Africa. We first had to take a domestic flight from Durban to the international airport in Johannesburg. Everyone on that domestic flight was appropriately dressed for the blazing heat and oppressive humidity of midsummer—shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. We were wearing jeans, boots, long-sleeved tops, and were carrying sweaters and snow jackets.

We disembarked at the uncomfortably warm domestic terminal and we made our sticky, sweaty way to the international terminal. That's when we started seeing more folk with the northern hemisphere in mind. It was easy to tell who was leaving and who was staying by their clothing. The travelers were not concerned about appearances at the airport because they would only be there for a few hours, and in a short while would be grateful for their warm clothes.

Why? Because they had set their minds on a European winter, not an African summer.

Can onlookers tell what your final destination is by the way you behave? Or do you live like this life is your final destination?

This is what the Apostle Paul addresses in Colossians 3:1-4

Four facts to keep in mind so that you can keep a heavenly mindset

1. Keep in mind your heavenly reality

Colossians 3:1 If [since] then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.

Paul has just completed two chapters on the doctrine of our salvation and from chapter three proceeds with the outworking of this doctrine. If you believe the doctrine of the first two chapters…then live like it.

This belief impacts your speech, your prayer, your family, your work environment, and your evangelism.

2. Keep in mind your heavenly realm

Colossians 3:1-2 … seek the things that are above, …Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

The word "seek" could be translated as keep seeking, pursue, search after, deliberately focus your thoughts on something.

There are some things in life that don't just happen to you, you have to seek them. No one just ends up serendipitously at the summit of Mount Everest. You have to decide to get there, and then pursue it with all your might.

When you set your mind on comfort, investments, education, fashion, food, career and vacation you are taking up Satan's agenda for your life, not God's. God wants you to set your mind on your final destination, not the sweaty airport of earth.

3. Keep in mind your heavenly relationship

Colossians 3:3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

Your motives should be fueled by your relationship with Christ. We don't become Christians so that we can have better families, feel great about ourselves, feel forgiven, get healed, or even to go to heaven.

We become Christians to get Christ.

John Piper writes:

God is the gospel….God is the final and highest gift that makes the good news good. Until people use the gospel to get to God, they use it wrongly."

Jesus died so that we can get God!  Do you live like you are satisfied in God? That is a heavenly mindset, not an earthly one.

Christian, your reason for living is to please Jesus. He is asking you to shift your values off the earthly and onto the heavenly. Will you do it? Paul didn't invent this. Jesus said "If anyone comes to me and does not hate …[fill in what is most precious to you] …he cannot be my disciple."

4. Keep in mind your heavenly reward

Colossians 3:4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Paul is not telling you to hate reward; he is advocating that you love heavenly reward instead of earthly reward. He's not eschewing incentives, he's offering one.

Remember Luke 12 when Jesus told the parable of the rich fool? Jesus concluded in verse 34: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

How do I set my mind on heavenly things? Give to causes that affect the kingdom of heaven. Volunteer time to serve God through the local church. Sacrifice some aspects of your hobby/sport/entertainment to free up money and time for the treasure of your heavenly priorities.

Imagine you gave your secretary a stationery allowance of $500 for the year, but she spends it on a $500 fountain pen for her personal use. No files, no stapler, no sticky-notes. Just her own fountain pen. That's how you behave when you spend all God's gifts on maximizing your own comfort instead of blessing others by being a good steward.

So pray for God to give you a heavenly mindset. Make deliberate choices in your life to prevent growing too attached to this life.

If we are a church full of heaven-set people, willing to make decisions that would be nonsensical except in the light of heavenly reality, realm, and reward, then when we share the gospel, others will know we believe it.

Source: Final Destination: Maintaining a Heavenly Mindset

Marriott International : Tourism Investors Rate Africa’s Prospects High

Stories by Demola Ojo

Hotel and hospitality industry stakeholders in Africa who recently met in Tanzania have said that the African continent remains the world's most attractive investment area in tourism despite the low figures of tourist inflow from key global travel markets. This was during the Fourth Annual Africa Hotel Expansion Summit and Hospitality Round Table in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This is as Marriott International announced six new property signings across Africa so far in 2016.

The investors stated that the continent is endowed with diversified natural resources, attractive geographical features, and rich history and cultures – all of which attract international tourists.The hotel and hospitality industry executives also harped on the need for intra-Africa travel packages to attract tourists within the continent.

"Africa needs to encourage intra-Africa travel programs that would attract more people to travel from one country to another country within the continent," said Amaechi Ndili, President and Chief Executive Officer, Lionstone Group and Golden Tulip West Africa Hospitality Group in Nigeria.

"We need to stimulate intra-Africa tourism and business travel while governments across the continent take serious steps and policies to create more open skies for Africans," Ndili noted.The hotel executives further noted that more than 80 percent of Africans don't know tourist attractive sites available in their own countries compared to Europe, America, and other continents where the citizens outnumber foreign tourists. Nigeria is the leading country in Africa to generate outbound tourists to other countries within the continent, mostly to other West African states, as well as East and Southern Africa.

Kenya was rated among top African countries looking to develop tourism by encouraging its residents to visit attractive sites within this country and book the hotels as a move to attract more hotel and accommodation investments.Rwanda is another African country rated with friendly and positive growth in the tourism and hospitality industry in Africa. Top-level international investors, business leaders, hotel industry experts, and travel market leaders from the world are currently focusing their eyes on Rwanda.

Kigali, the Rwandan capital, has been rated the most attractive city in Eastern Africa for the global hospitality industry. Several international conferences and gatherings have been held there, attracting a high level of tourists from Africa and other parts of the world.

Among the key global gatherings to hold in Kigali later this year is the 41st Congress of the Africa Travel Association (ATA) to be held in Kigali from November 14 to 17 and which is expected to bring delegates from Africa, the United States, Europe, and other parts of the world.

To be held with the theme "Destination Africa: The Future of African Tourism," the ATA's 41st Congress is set to focus the East African region as the single tourist destination in Africa best for a combined African safari.

Meanwhile, Marriott International has continued to pursue an ambitious growth strategy across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region announcing an impressive 14 new property signings so far in 2016. The latest collection of signings will see Marriott International expand its Middle East footprint by eight properties across the UAE, Egypt, Qatar and Kuwait, encompassing the Marriott Hotels, Courtyard by Marriott, Marriott Executive Apartments, Residence Inn by Marriott and Protea Hotels by Marriott brands.

The company has also announced further growth to its African pipeline with the signing of six new properties under the JW Marriott Hotels, Autograph Collection and Protea Hotels by Marriott brands."Our 2016 property signings further illustrate the scale of our ambition to expand as a leading travel company within the Middle East and Africa as well as internationally," said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa of Marriott International. "This is driven by a clear objective to increase representation in all major gateway cities, commercial centers and established resort destinations while catering to a wide variety of market segments. Each of Marriott International's brands, including those hotels in ourpipeline, target a specific segment and support the increased inflow of travelers into the hotel's location.

Within the Middle East, Marriott International currently operates a total of 40 properties spanning eight brands. Today's announcement will add a further five properties to Marriott International's UAE presence as well as one property each in Egypt, Qatar and Kuwait.

In Africa, Marriott International's acquisition of Protea Hospitality Holding in 2014 is continuing to yield positive returns as the company signs a further six hotels in 2016 adding 1,040 rooms to its Africa pipeline. That pipeline will include two properties in Uganda and one property each in Nairobi, Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. Amongst the signed properties is a JW Marriott brand hotel in Nairobi and an Autograph Collection hotel in South Africa.

Aside from the 14 new property signings in 2016, Marriott International has also confirmed that 11 new properties are set to open across the Middle East and Africa in Q4 2016. This will include Al Forsan Marriott Hotel in Abu Dhabi, Fes Marriott Hotel in Morocco, Accra Marriott Hotel in Ghana, La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk, Dubai, Autograph Collection; Lapita Hotel Dubai, Autograph Collection; Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Olaya in Saudi Arabia, and Renaissance Lagos Ikeja Hotel in Nigeria.

By 2020, Marriott International plans to add a further 74 properties and approximately 16,169 rooms within the Middle East and Africa region bolstering its total regional footprint to 221 properties and 40,816 rooms.

(c) 2016 THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LTD. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info)., source Middle East & North African Newspapers

Source: Marriott International : Tourism Investors Rate Africa's Prospects High

Which city is now the cheapest long-haul destination in the world?

Escape to Cape Town for the best value far-flung holidays – South Africa's spectacular Mother City is today revealed as the world's cheapest long-haul destination.

After three years in the No1 slot, Far East tropical favourite Bali has slipped back a place to runner-up following 30% local price rises, including a whopping 50% increase in the cost of eating out.

But despite the weak post-Brexit pound slumping 24% against the yen, Tokyo has seen intense competition between shops, restaurants and bars.

That's driven prices down by 8% in the pulsating Japanese capital and kept it at third place in the ninth annual league table by Post Office Travel Money.

Read More A beach in Cancun, Mexico

Using prices of typical tourist purchases such as meals, drinks, snacks and sunscreen researched by long-haul tailor-made holiday specialist Travelbag, the Post Office created a 'shopping basket' for 34 leading long-haul destinations and put them in a league table.

With a basket of £48.89, Cape Town was a clear winner ahead of Bali (£62.56).

Of course, flights to South Africa are generally pricey, but Thomas Cook Airlines is launching a route from Gatwick in December, with fares starting at £599 return.

After Team GB's triumph at the Rio Olympics, Tokyo – host city for the 2020 Games – will be on many Brits' wish-lists, especially as what was once an expensive destination is now at the value end of the travel spectrum with a basket at £63.87.

Colourful houses in Lima

Handily, air fares there are coming down too.

Direct flights are still a little costly, but if you don't mind an indirect route there are some good value fares.

Cheapflights.co.uk has returns from Heathrow via Amsterdam with KLM in February for £406, and you can get under £400 with a longer layover in the likes of Dusseldorf and Beijing.

The USA and Canada have proved exceptionally popular for Brits this year and, despite ­sterling struggling against the dollar, theme park capital Orlando (£79.76) is back in the Post Office Top 10 in ninth place, its highest ranking in three years.

The price of meals in particular makes ever-popular New York City more expensive at £93.90, with Vancouver's dinner bills bringing its basket to £100.88.

Temple on Lake Bali

Latin America is looking like a real 2017 hotspot, helped by new direct air routes to Costa Rica, Peru and Chile.

Peruvian capital Lima makes the Top 10 at number eight with a basket at £78.52, while Tamarindo, Costa Rica, and the Chilean capital Santiago are a little pricier at £87.03 and £99.03 respectively.

And there's good news for Cancun fans because the Caribbean livewire is sixth at £74.26 on the back of a relatively weak Mexican peso.

Inevitably, desert dazzler Dubai was the most expensive long-haul destination researched. The basket of £199.34 – more than four times Cape Town's – reflects the eye-watering cost of meals and drinks there.

The rising sun over the Tokyo skyline

However, the sun-soaked Emirate has a vast number of good quality hotel rooms, so plenty of accommodation value can be found.

And there's fierce competition on air routes available – look for fares around or under £300.

A Post Office spokesman said: "Costs may be higher in long-haul holiday resorts this year for British travellers but the good news is that local price cuts in many of the most popular destinations will help to lessen the impact of the weaker pound.

"More than ever before, it will pay dividends to do some holiday homework before booking."

Table showing the prices of products in 14 destinations
Source: Which city is now the cheapest long-haul destination in the world?

These 5 African countries have the highest number of child refugees in the world

According to a new report by UNICEF, the number of child refugees around the world has increased by 80 percent in the last 5 years. These children are looking for a new home free of conflicts, poverty, extreme weather and are looking for a better life.

Africa has experienced several wars and conflicts. These have led to a high number of children refugees. In Africa, eight countries have experienced conflicts in the past five years. These countries are Côte d'Ivoire, Central African Republic, Libya, Mali, Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and most recently, Burundi.

Roughly one-third of all refugees around the world under UNHCR's mandate originate from and are hosted by Africa. Approximately 5.4 million refugees come from African countries, and children are disproportionately represented among them. An estimated 53 percent of all African refugees are children – that is, nearly 3 million children.

Five of the largest refugee populations in the world are in Africa – Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. Hosting countries take the responsibilities of immigrant countries and this affects the economic and social status of the destination countries. Seven out of the ten countries with the highest number of refugees relative to national resources are African, led by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, and Uganda.

In some host countries, the cost of maintaining refugee camps and the social pressure by the citizens threatens the re-displacement of refugees. In May, Kenyan authorities announced plans to close all its refugee camps. Kenya hosts the world's largest refugee camp, Dadaab. It's uncertain when the government is going to execute this plan. If undertaken, more than 600,000 people could be displaced yet again.

One out of every five child migrants lives in Africa. About three-quarter of all child refugees are from only 10 countries. Of these countries, 5 are African- South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Sudan and Somalia.

Here's what you need to know about these countries:

Somalia

About 1.1 million Somalis have been forced out of the country – half of them children – due to over two decades of internal conflict. Another estimated 1.2 million people are internally displaced within the country. The activities of the terrorist group, Al-Shabaab, in the country has led to the destabilization of families, destruction of properties, displacements of citizens. Severe malnutrition has intensified food security concerns in the country while outbreaks of polio, measles and cholera are an additional threat to children's lives. Aggravating floods in the southern central regions and droughts in Somalia has intensified both international and internal displacement.

South Sudan

Children are more disproportionately affected by displacement in South Sudan than nearly anywhere else in the world. In 2015, 65 percent of all refugees from the country were children.

The tussle for leadership in South Sudan between Salva Kiir and Riek Machar descended the country into a civil war. Many women and children, who are lucky not to have been killed in the conflicts, have migrated to Ethiopia, Uganda and other countries.

In just five years of existence, South Sudan has been plagued by violence. As of 2015, 800,000 South Sudanese were refugees and another 1.7 million were internally displaced. Between January and July of 2016, the number of refugees in the country had increased by at least 130,000.

Sudan

Children and families have been forced out of Sudan in search of safety, food security, better education, healthcare, and shelter. The secession of South Sudan from Sudan, internal conflicts and violence in Darfur, the Kordofan states, Blue Nile and Abyei regions have driven about 600,000 Sudanese out of the country. By 2015, 400,000 child refugees had left Sudan. Within the country, 2.1 million children under the age of five suffer from malnutrition.

The Central African Republic

The ongoing civil war in the Central African Republic has led to instability within the country. The civil war in the Central African Republic began in 2012  and led to a disruptive removal of President François Bozizé's government in 2013. Roughly half a million refugees have fled the country, of which 58 percent were children. In 2015, another 450,000 people had been displaced within the country. High child mortality rate, food insecurity and the prevalence of domestic violence has affected the fleece of people from the country.

The Democratic Republic of Congo

By 2015, 300,000 children refugees had left the country in search for better education, food, shelter, and security. This was caused by wars and outbreaks of violence. About 6 million lives have been lost to embroiling violence in the country. As of 2015, 1.5 million Congolese were internally displaced and an estimated 300,000 has been added in 2016. It is estimated that 2 million children in the country are acutely malnourished. At least, 3240 groups have been recruited as Child soldiers by militant groups.

"Migration is an expression of the human aspiration for dignity, safety, and a better future. It is part of the social fabric, part of our very makeup as a human family, said, Ban Ki-Moon. The stability of African countries could lead to lower migration, better respect for human dignity. Displacements in Africa have led to multiple cases of malaria, hunger, poverty and waterborne diseases, malnourishment and deaths. Urgent Interventions need to be made to prevent further occurrences of forced migrations. Peace and stability are required for Africa to advance development in the respective countries.

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Source: These 5 African countries have the highest number of child refugees in the world

African Aviation Displays Healthy Growth

Analysis of International air travel to Africa this year (January to August) by ForwardKeys, a company that predicts future travel patterns by crunching and analysing 14m booking transactions a day, reveals growth of 5.6% compared with the same period last year.

However, there is a tale of two Africas – North Africa, comprising Algeria, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia, which has seen little growth or even a decline, and other parts of Africa, particularly East Africa, which has displayed double digit growth.

Olivier Jager, CEO, ForwardKeys, said: "Despite their weak growth, North African countries still made it into the top 10 destinations in terms of volume of traffic but they have suffered from political instability and terror activities in the region."

In terms of market share, South Africa is the largest destination, with 13% of international air traffic; it is followed by Egypt with 9%, Morocco with 8%, Mauritius with 5%, Kenya, Algeria and Tunisia with 4%, Tanzania and Ethiopia with 3% and Nigeria with 2%.

When one looks at origin markets, Europe is the dominant force, providing 46.1% of air traffic to Africa, which has grown by 2.5% this year. However the other origin markets have shown much stronger growth with the Americas up 12.7%, Asia Pacific up 12.4%, the Middle East up 9.6% and travel within Africa up 5.4%.Looking ahead to the remainder of the year, the picture is highly encouraging. International bookings for travel to Africa as a whole, up to the end of December are 11.1% ahead of where they were at this time last year. Europe, which is the origin of over 60% of forward bookings is 11.3% ahead. Asia Pacific is 14.3% ahead, the Americas 12.5% ahead, the Middle East 6% ahead and travel within Africa 9.4% ahead.The data has been released ahead of AviaDev, a new airline route development conference and AHIF, Africa's highest profile hotel investment conference, which run concurrently at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre in Kigali from 4-6 October 2016.

Jonathan Worsley, Chairman of Bench Events, which is organising AHIF and AviaDev, said: "This is extremely interesting and timely data. It explains why we are seeing very serious interest in the market – over twenty airlines have signed up for this inaugural event to discuss new aviation routes in Africa and a scores of very senior executives, including the Global CEOs of the Rezidor Hotel Group, Marriott and Westmont, are also coming to Rwanda."

Arne Sorensen, President & CEO, Marriott, whose new hotel in Kigali will host the conferences' opening reception concluded: "AHIF has been fundamental in helping us meet local contacts and boost our profile in the African market."

Source: African Aviation Displays Healthy Growth

Tourism and hotel investors in Africa rate continent top for investment

Hotel and hospitality industry stakeholders in Africa who are meeting in Tanzania said the African continent remains the world's most attractive investment area in tourism despite the low figures of tourist inflow from key global travel markets.

They said Africa remains the leading continent in the world and that it is endowed with diversified natural resources, attractive geographical features, and rich history and cultures - all of which attract international tourists to visit this continent.

During their first day at the Fourth Annual Africa Hotel Expansion Summit and Hospitality Round Table in the Tanzanian commercial city of Dar es Salaam, hotel and hospitality industry executives noted that Africa needs to establish intra-Africa travel packages to attract tourists within the continent.

"Africa needs to encourage intra-Africa travel programs that would attract more people to travel from one country to another country within the continent," said Amaechi Ndili, President and Chief Executive Officer, Lionstone Group and Golden Tulip West Africa Hospitality Group in Nigeria.

"We need to stimulate intra-Africa tourism and business travel while governments across the continent take serious steps and policies to create more open skies for Africans," Ndili noted.

In the context of tourism competitiveness in Africa, most countries on the continent are still lacking competitive tools to support growth and competition in tourism at global market levels, despite the continent's rich and untapped natural resources.

The hotel executives further noted that more than 80 percent of Africans don't know tourist attractive sites available in their own countries compared to Europe, America, and other continents where the citizens outnumber foreign tourists.

Nigeria is the leading country in Africa to generate outbound tourists to other countries within the continent, mostly to other West African states, as well as East and Southern Africa.

Kenya was rated among top African countries looking to develop tourism by encouraging its residents to visit attractive sites within this country and book the hotels as a move to attract more hotel and accommodation investments.

Rwanda is the other African country rated with friendly and positive growth in the tourism and hospitality industry in Africa. Top-level international investors, business leaders, hotel industry experts, and travel market leaders from the world are currently focusing their eyes on Rwanda.

Kigali, the Rwandan capital, has been rated the most attractive city in Eastern Africa for the global hospitality industry. Several international conferences and gatherings have been taking place there, attracting a high level of tourists from Africa and other parts of the world.

Among the key global gatherings to be taking place in Kigali later this year is the 41st Congress of the Africa Travel Association (ATA) to be held in Kigali from November 14 to 17 and which is expected to bring delegates from Africa, the United States, Europe, and other parts of the world.

Bearing a theme of "Destination Africa: The Future of African Tourism," the ATA's 41st Congress is set to focus the East African region as the single tourist destination in Africa and best for a combined African safari.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com

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Source: Tourism and hotel investors in Africa rate continent top for investment