HiPipo Money

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Firm nears exitof investment instate-of-the-art glass manufacturer Sphinx Glassas part of its strategy to divest non-core assets

Citadel Capital (CCAP.CA on the Egyptian Exchange), aleading investment company in Africa and the Middle East, has received a binding offer to sell 100% of non-core portfolio company Sphinx Glass Ltd. for an equity value ofapproximatelyUS$ 112 million.

Sphinx Glass,a 200,000 ton per annum, state-of-the-art float glass production facility,began full operations in April 2010 and is today one of the largest independently operated float glass producers in the MENA region. In addition to beinga key player in the Egyptian market, Sphinx Glass is also a significant regional and international exporter. The company specializes in the production of clear and tinted float glass and online coated glassin varying thicknesses. The company recorded USD 55.78million in sales in 2013 and is currently on target to exceed its budget for the second consecutive year.

Citadel Capital will be divesting its 73.3% ownership stake in the company; the balance of the equity subject to sale in the transaction is held by co-investors.

“Sphinx Glass is one of the most technologically advanced facilities of its kind in Egypt.Witha strong management team and the proper infrastructure already in place to build a second line, the company undoubtedly has the potential to grow into a major regional exporter,” said Citadel Capital Co-Founder and Managing Director Hisham El-Khazindar.

“We are exiting our investment in the companyas part of the execution of our new strategy to divest non-core assets in a timely manner at the right valuations as we transform into an investment holding company with a narrower focus,” he added.

Citadel Capital has acquired majority stakes in most of its core subsidiaries in the energy, transportation, agrifoods, mining and cement industries following the conclusion of a capital increase to USD 1.14 billion.

The Sphinx Glass factory was designed by and operates under license of world-renowned float glass technology provider PPG Industries andwas built by a leading Italian contractor. The investment leveragesEgypt’s abundance of high-quality raw materials and the supply ofskilled labor, both of which are key elements in the production of float glass. With the distinguished geographical location of the manufacturing base  in Egypt;Sphinx Glassis well suited to serviceboth domestic as well as export markets.

Due diligence on Sphinx Glass has been completedin the past period. Subject to the finalization of a sale and purchase agreement, the transaction for the sale of 100% of Sphinx Glass is expected to close during the next two months.

The divestiture of non-core industries, the most recent of which was the US$ 22 million sale of a 66.1% stake in the Sudanese Egyptian Bank, will continue over the coming three years.   

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MTN Uganda has started with its 2014 Internet Expos in Kampala where after it will go regional. The 2014 Expos areInternet themed exhibitions toshowcaseamong other, MTN’s data products and services in an engaging, entertaining and informative set up.

Launchingin Kampala,this year’s expos will provideinteractive platforms through partnerships with device providers to offer a complete unique customer experience.

Under the theme, Touch, Feel and Experience,consumers are called upon to come experience World-class Internet, the gateway toa bold, newDigital World which MTN is delivering.

Throughout the year, MTN will take the expos to Jinja, Mbarara, Kabale, andLira.

Mr. Ernst Fonternel,MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, said MTN will continue to enhance theirofferings to meet and exceed their customer’s needs to make their lives a whole lot brighter.

“MTN’s vision of leading the delivery of a bold,new Digital World to our customers is one of the reasons why we need to continue extending our connectivity drive into the greater world with our planned data themed Expos.We shall continue with our strategy to drive data penetration in the different regions. Using the Expo platform, we plan to avail a cross section of our customers in various strategic regional venues with education about MTN’s Mobile Internet services, the USSD self-provisioning, the various attributes of our Internet products and the vast portfolio of devices that we have.” Fonternel said.

In 2013 MTN becamethe first operator in Uganda, and one of the very first in Africa to launch the LTE service. The launch of LTE represented a major jump in mobile connectivity capabilities with speeds of up to 100Mbps. MTN is further covering the country with speeds up to 42Mbps and ensuring great quality Internet and speeds for the broader Uganda population. During 2013, MTN more than doubled its Internet utilization and with innovative solutions such each customer receiving access to 15MB Free Internet each month and Free Unlimited Facebook use through 0.Facebook.com MTN’s 2.6 million customers who are already accessing the Internet each month is projected to exponentially grow by end of year.

“We are entering the Post-PC world. A world where the traditional computer is facing growth challenges from smartphone and tabletdevices.While this might still take some time for Uganda to arrive at, MTN is bringing the experience closer through the expos. We want people to Touch, Feel and Experience World-class Internet. The MTN regional Expos are the company’s way to take services closer to its audiences. It’s also intended to create awareness for the vast opportunities available through the use of ICT as well as expose customers to the various data options available from MTN” Fonternel added.

MTN Uganda is the leading investor in technology with an investment of over $70million in 2013 alone to upgrade infrastructure, but also extend services to previously uncovered areas.

“Our investment into Ugandashows MTN’s commitment to continue providing services relevant to our customer’s current and future needs, and this firmly positions MTN as a leader with a clear vision for the future; leading the way for others to follow.”

Ernst explained that over the next five years, data and digital services will be the primary focus of MTN Uganda.

“Our strategic objectives are dynamic and provide a comprehensive roadmap to maintain MTN as a clear Number One for Customer Experience and Superior Quality,” Fonternel concluded.

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·        2014 CATEGORIES REFLECT VIBRANT AFRICAN MEDIA LANDSCAPE

CNN International and MultiChoice this week officially launched the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist 2014 Awards. 

The competition for African nationals based on the continent welcomes entries from journalists creating content targeting an African audience.

Also this year, the competition has become even easier for journalists to enter, with submissions being made via the entry form website http://www.cnnmcaja.cnn.com.

Tony Maddox, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of CNN International, said: “Since the very beginning, these Awards have discovered and rewarded superlative African journalism across the continent.  With even more of Africa’s storytellers now able to share their work with us, we expect even more outstanding entries.  The categories this year also perfectly mirror the reality of today’s Africa’s multi-platform media scene. As Africa’s leading news provider, we’re delighted to play our part in supporting the excellent journalism these Awards yield annually.”

Nico Meyer, CEO MultiChoice Africa, said: “As we enter our 10^th year as partners to the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist Awards, we continue to be amazed and honoured by the phenomenal impact that this initiative has had on the continent. It certainly has been a game changer for the advancement of media development and quality journalism, showcasing top-class journalists who can compete heads and shoulders with their peers on the world stage. This year promises to once again highlight Africa’s best journalistic talent.”

South Africans Msindisi Fengu and Yandisa Monakali, from South Africa were awarded the top prize at the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist 2013 Awards ceremony. Their work ‘Investigation series: School hostels of Shame’, which appeared in South African daily print newspaper Daily Dispatch investigated the appalling conditions being experienced by thousands of pupils in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, uncovering hygiene and safety risks in school hostels and lifting the lid on corruption within the education department. It was chosen from 1387 entries from 42 nations across the African continent.

Over the past 19 years, the competition has grown in size and status to become Africa’s most prestigious media event. In 2013, a ‘Highlights Programme’ of the ceremony, held in Cape Town, South Africa, was broadcast in 46 African countries, plus the UK, USA and the Caribbean.

Open to journalists working in any medium, this year the competition will recognise excellence in the following categories:

• ·         Culture Award
• ·         The Coca-Cola Company Economics & Business Award
• ·         *GE Energy & Infrastructure Award (*NEW*)
• ·         Environment Award
• ·         MSD Health & Medical Award
• ·         *News Impact Award (*NEW*)
• ·         Mohamed Amin Photographic Award
• ·         Press Freedom Award
• ·         Sport Reporting Award
• ·         Francophone General News Awards – Electronic media & Print
• ·         Portuguese Language General News Awards – Electronic media & Print

From these category winners, an independent judging panel choose the overall winner – The CNN MultiChoice African Journalist 2014.

Finalists in the 2014 competition will participate in a finalists’ programme that will include a media forum and networking opportunities with senior journalists, editors, business leaders and media owners from across the continent, culminating in a gala awards ceremony later in the year. The CNN MultiChoice African Journalist 2014 will have the opportunity to participate in the CNN Journalism Fellowship at CNN Headquarters in Atlanta.

www.cnn.com/africanawards

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…as Fresh Dairy whole milk and full cream milk getextended shelf life.

Sameer Agriculture and Livestock Ltd (SALL), the makers of Fresh Dairy milk have today unveiledtwo new variants of the Fresh Dairy brand that will cater for the ever increasing demand for milk in Uganda.

The new variants of whole milk and full cream milk will now have an extended shelf life of 30 days from the normal 3 days thanks to new technology employed by Sameer that will see them have zero bacteria.

The packaging has multiple layers with hermetic sealing that gives no chance for bacteria to survive hence its ability survive for up to 30 days.

Making the announcement at their head offices in Industrial area in Kampala,SALL’s Business Head Mr. Sudhir Mathulla said that the innovative move has been spurred by the growing demand for milk and convenience of the longer shelf life with no refrigeration.

“The move is intended to simplify the lives of our consumers.They do not have to worry about contamination of the milkanymore because the milk is heated under sterile conditions,” Sudhir said.

The new variants are available in a half litre poly pouch at UGX 850 in all retail centers.

Sameer Agriculture and Livestock Limited answers today’s fast-paced consumer demands by launching fresh milk with a longer shelf life onto the Ugandan market with the aim of bringing to the fore the goodness in milk.

“Milk and dairy products are important in diversifying an individual’s diet. They are nutrient compressed and provide high quality protein and micronutrients in an easily absorbable form. These benefit both nutritionally vulnerable people and healthy people when consumed in appropriate amounts, “added Mr.Sudhir Mathulla.

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Huawei’s new 4G LTE smartphone delivers stand-out design, unparalleled camera experience, access to ultra-fast connectivity and superb battery performance 

Huawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, today unveiled the highly anticipated Huawei Ascend P7. Building on the success of Huawei Ascend P6, the new 4G LTE-enabled smartphone redefines smartphone excellence with top-notch features,ultra-fast connectivity,and easier navigation in a beautifully crafted design that places it in a class of its own. With a 5-inch full high definition display, industry-leading 8MP front-facing and 13MP rear-facing cameras, and thelatest intuitive Emotion UI 2.3, HuaweiAscend P7 will Make it Possible for people to express excellence with edge, anytime, anywhere.

Huawei redesigned Ascend P7 from the inside out, significantly improving the performance of the smartphone’s hardware and software to redefine user experience. At 6.5mm slim, Ascend P7 sets a new record as one of the slimmest 4G LTE smartphones in the market. To relentlessly pursue excellence with edge for discerning global users, Huawei incorporated a perfect harmony of design influences from the West with attention to detail from the East.

“Huawei’s relentless commitment to developing premium quality smartphones over the past three years has paid off.We are now ranked number three globally in terms of smartphone shipments, and our brand recognition is growing steadily in key regions such as China and Western Europe,” said, Richard Yu, CEO, Huawei Consumer Business Group (BG). “Today, the launch of Huawei Ascend P7 once again challenges existing industry standards by redefining smartphone design, camera experience, and connectivity, to provide people with an unprecedented mobile experience.”

“Orange is pleased to witness how Huawei’s products and brand have developed since we first identified Huawei as a global contender several years ago. Today’s launch of the best-in-class Ascend P7 is an illustration of a strategy and investment that is now paying dividends,” said Yves Maître, Executive Vice President, Connected Object and Partnerships, Orange. “As a long-term partner, Orange is delighted to provide its customers with the results of this successful relationship.”

Redefining craftsmanship

Huawei Ascend P7 provides an edge with enhanced strength and durability against everyday use with Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 front and rear covers. It stands out from the crowd with a sleek, sophisticated metallic appearance created by a seven-layered rear surface treatment with a refined “spin effect” micro-pattern design.

“HuaweiAscend P7 was inspired by the natural curves of a water dropletwhich instills the phone with a sense of natural purity, and also gives users a more comfortable grip,” said Joon Suh Kim, Mobile Device Vice President, Consumer Experience Design Center, Huawei Consumer BG. “It took us months of extensive design refinements to achieve this excellent balance of form and function.”

For intense visual clarity when viewing multimedia, Ascend P7has a 5-inch FHD touchscreen display with 1920 x 1080 resolution, 445ppi and 16:9 aspect ratio.To suit any style, Ascend P7 is available in a range of fashionable colors including black, white, and pink.

Redefining camera experience

HuaweiAscend P7gives users an edge in low-light settings withSony’s 4^thgeneration BSI sensor, Image Signal Processer (ISP), IMAGESmart 2.0 softwareand f/2.0 aperture on its 13MP 5P non-spherical lens rear-facing camera to create unparalleled clear, rich pictures at night or indoors.

To capture spontaneous moments before they are gone, Huawei Ascend P7’s unique Ultra Snapshot function enables the user to be camera-ready 1.2seconds after double-clicking the down volume button intuitively while in locked mode, instead of spending time trying to unlock the screen.

Take better selfies, or the ultimate group selfie — a “groufie” –with the leading 8MP 5P non-spherical lens front-facing camera that comes with a panorama function for panoramic selfie shooting, and 10 level auto-facial enhancement in beauty mode. Users can also take a selfie video with the 1080pHD video playback. Huawei Ascend P7 ensures picture-perfect moments every time with the innovative built-in mirror function and selfie preview window.

Add an extra dimension to photos with the “Voice Photo” function which takes photos accompanied by 10-second audio clips for users to upload photos with special audio expressions on a variety of social media platforms.

In addition to camera improvements, Huawei’s proprietary Image Signal Processor (ISP) allows the smartphone to control a whole range of functions that mimic those found in professional digital SLRs, including autofocus, white balance, and noise reduction, for beautifully-optimized photos under any conditions. Users can also select the focus and exposure metering function with just one touch so the preferred focus and exposure position can be set to maximize image precision.

Redefining connectivity and battery performance

For people seeking even faster and seamless connectivity, Huawei Ascend P7 enables unlimited media viewing with ultra-fast 4G LTE speed and Huawei’s unique dual antenna design to improve signal reception. Ascend P7 also uses smart network switching technology that stabilizes the connection even during weak signal reception to minimize battery drainage.

Enjoy long-lasting continuous media viewing and data sharing thanks to the robust 2500mAh lithium polymer battery and proprietary battery saving technology. In addition, the power saving management function enables users to save battery by switching off any applications running in the background that are consuming unnecessary power.

The super power-saving mode enables Ascend P7 to adopt the most suitable use of powerwhen it is running on less than 10 percent of the total battery. When enabled, the screen will dim and only the basic functions of the phone will remain activated, including voice calls and the contact page. It will also stretch the remaining 10 percent of battery power to last 24 hours on standby.

Redefining user experience

Huawei Ascend P7 gives smartphone newbies the edge of an expert with the latest version of the intuitive, easy-to-use interface, Emotion UI 2.3, providing customizable lock and home screens, with two enhanced UIs for effortless navigation. Easily personalize the smartphone management software, including a harassment filter, permission manager, network and notification management, and power saving modes.

The recommended retail price of Huawei Ascend P7 is 449 euros and it will be available in China, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Serbia, Greece, Norway, Hungary, Denmark, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Austria, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates from May, with other markets to follow. Accessories include HUAWEI TalkBand B1, colorful protective cases, clamshell protective screen covers, and portable batteries.

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Operations and Maintenance contract with Cimento Nacionale Ltd, a major cement producer in Mozambique, is the first step in ASEC Engineering’s plans for geographical expansion into Sub-Saharan Africa.

ASEC Engineering and Management, a subsidiary of Citadel Capital (CCAP.CA on the Egyptian Exchange), the leading investment company in Africa and the Middle East, has just signed an operations and maintenance (O&M) contract with Mozambican cement producer, Cimento Nacionale Ltda.

“This contract with Cimento Nacionale Ltda is the first step in ASEC Engineering’s plans to expand its footprint outside the MENA region into Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Khaled El Sebaie, CEO of ASEC Engineering.  “Our ability move into new territories is the result of the well-established reputation that ASEC Holding has earned as a regional cement, engineering and construction group.”

ASEC Engineering, the engineering and construction services arm of ASEC Holding, is a leading provider of O&M services for cement plants in Egypt and the MENA region. The company will utilize its know-how and expertise to boost production volumes, reduce costs, and improve quality at Cimento Nationale Ltda, located near Maputo, the capital of Mozambique.

The one-year contract, renewable for an additional five years, will see ASEC Engineering introduce and implement new systems for all aspects of the production and business process including quality assurance, maintenance, warehousing and human resources. The scope of the contract will also cover training for local staff in Mozambique to be carried out through programs at ASEC Academy, ASEC Holding’s technical training arm.

ASEC Engineering currently operates and maintains 10 cement production lines in Egypt, which represents approximately 25% of the country’s combined cement production capacity. The company also holds various O&M contracts in the region. The Mozambique contract marks its first entry into Sub-Saharan Africa. 

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Musa Kisibo, an employee of Uchumi Super Market is the latest winner of an all-expense paid trip to Brazil,the land synonymous with fun, merry making, beauty and the famous Samba culture in the ongoing Sip Sip Samba Promotion by Uganda Breweries Limited.

The promotion will give forty Ugandans the opportunity of a lifetime to enjoy the beautiful scenery that has become synonymous with this South American nation and Ronald is among the winners drawn last week who will enjoy this South American paradise for three days.

In addition to the trip, consumers also have the chance to win other prizes like instant cash as well as other customized memorabilia. 

To participate in the Sip Sip Samba promotion, customers have to buy a bottle of any of the four brands, check under the crown for a five-digit code then send an SMS with the code to 6050 for the chance to enter the weekly draw to win the trip. The more codes one sends, the higher their chances of winning.

The draws will be carried out every Monday at 8:35pmonNTV Uganda to pick the winners of the cash award prize of UGX 100, 000 and tickets to Brazil.

The campaign will not only offer the most amazing prize of experiencing Brazil, it will also seek to reward those who will be here at home. There will be lots of prizes like free beer, instant cash via mobile money.”

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The Village Mall Bugolobi in partnership with its sponsors has announced the final winners of its inaugural promotion dubbed “Easter Bonanza”.

During a colourful event marking the completion of the two week Easter promotion twenty nine lucky winners walked away with prizes courtesy of the sponsors Qatar Airways, Vivo Energy, AON Uganda and Sheraton Kampala.

Paul Nkore and Juan Cheng were the lucky winners of the grand prize of a ticket to the US and China respectively courtesy of Qatar Airways. The winners would get to select the destination of choice.

Others won fuel vouchers worth Ugx 100,000 from Vivo Energy (10 winners), life insurance for a year worth Ugx 1,000,000 from AON Uganda (10 winners) and couple dinners at Sheraton Kampala (2 winners).

Tenants from The Village Mall, Elite Digital, Eye Care Center, LaCara  Costmetics and Il Rafinato, were the other sponsors who offered a mini ipad, designer glasses, gift bags and mens accessories respectively.

A statement from Knight Frank (U) Limited, the managers of The Village Mall stated: “We are honored to announce and reward these winners. This was the first time for The Village Mall to hold such a promotion since we opened and we are pleased to share this experience with our shoppers as a way of saying thank you”.

The promotion has been running since April 14th to April 27th where shoppers were given a raffle ticket for ever Ugx 20,000 spent at the mall.

About The Village Mall, Bugolobi

The Village Mall is located in Kampala’s prime mixed use Suburb of Bugolobi. Anchored by Nakumatt it has already been labeled as Kampala’s most “intimate” yet “classy” mall by its patrons. It has a spread of both local and regional tenants with exciting offerings ranging from fashion, lifestyle, fine dining and entertainment, all under one roof. The Food Court and soon to be opened children’s play area provides a safe and comfortable environment for the whole family to enjoy.

The Village Mall (9,700 square metres GLA (gross lettable area) is arranged over 3 floors with ample surface and basement parking fitting in 36 tenants in professionally finished interiors. Its Tuscan meets Baroque architectural style has distinguished The Village Mall from the rest by providing an interesting, exciting, and yet functional layout of the floors and shops, providing an enjoyable shopping experience for everyone.

The Village Mall is managed by Knight Frank a leading global property consultancy and largest independent real estate agency in the world with operations in over 370 offices in 48 countries on 6 continents in mainly established and emerging property markets.

Tenants who will be opening soon include: Java Coffee and Tea Limited, Liquid Silk, Era Salon, Sound City, Dynapharm, CBA, The Clinic-Diagnostic Centre, Javi Investments Limited-Soothing Spa, MTN and 4Life.

Tenants already trading include: Nakumatt, Banana Boat, C&A pharmacy, Kings Gagdets & Accessories, Orange (U) Limited, Brood, La Cara, Dazzle, Design Me, Eye Care Centre, Spot Clean Dry Cleaners, Zain Forex Bureau, KFC, Nawab restaurant, Elite Computers, China Bowl, Olives Kitchen, Big Mama restaurant, Ndahura S Trading, Riders Pub, Parad-Ice U Ltd, Kids World, Book Point, The Groom, Dead Sea Cosmetics, Planet Yogurt, Laville Wines, Stanbic Bank, Fotogenix, JH Kreation and Men’s Refinery. 

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On May 3^rd, 2014, Kampala club challenged and defeated Lugogo club at a return game in the British Airways Tennis tournament.The one day tournament that took place at Kampala Club saw the hosts beat their rivals Lugogo Club, 13 to 7 points, to retain the trophy they previously won in the first Leg, which was hosted by Lugogo Tennis Club in November 2013

Commenting on the tournament, Faith Chaitezvi CountryCommercial Manager British Airways Uganda, said, “British Airways is once again happy to sponsor the 2^nd League of the British Airways inter-club corporate tennis. As promised last year, the games will be played every quarter by participating clubs with each hosting the other. This time, we had Kampala Club challenge and host Lugogo Tennis Club. We hope to engage more clubs to increase the well-being of more of our customers whilst growing the game of tennis in Uganda.”

The games format were outlined as :Fourteen players from each club to makeeight men four women, one veteran (over 55) and a youth player (under 13). Theseplayed a series of double and single matches over the course of the day. The winner of the challenge was determined as the club that won the most matches over the course of the day.

Commenting on their second win of the tournament, AggreyMwesigwa the Captain of Kampala Club stated that it was necessary to retain the trophy in our backyard because Kampala Club has this reputation. “We have always had a strong team which contains a mixture of youth with a lot of experience, and always performed to the best of our capabilities, this is the reason why I was very confident we would win once again. It is also our hope that the tournament expands in the near future to let more clubs join to make it a bigger competition”.

Victor Drile the LugogoTennis Club Captain in reaction to their loss to Kampala Club said, ‘As LugogoTennis Club we have not been deterred by our loss in the last two legs. We shall continue playing until we take the trophy home. We hope that it will be our turn in the next Leg. It was a good match, and we hope to do better in the next Leg. “

The Tennis interclub challenge’s main aim is to promote health benefits as one of British Airways’ main priorities for its passengers. 

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1. Young aspiring footballers get world class professionally -run football training with Arsenal coaches
2. Over 20 boys and girls from a select group of Rising Stars spotted last year attend the  Soccer clinic

A total of 26 boys and girls from five African countries have started a week’s football training at the Federation Rwandese de Football Association (FERWAFA) football grounds in Kigali. The training will be facilitated by Arsenal Soccer School coaches. The participants are from Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia and Uganda jetted into the country on Sunday joining their Rwanda counterparts for the much anticipated Airtel Soccer Clinic. The training will take place and will focus on teaching professional football.

Airtel partnered with Arsenal football club to facilitate the hosting of a week-long football tournament for select players identified through the last season of the Airtel Rising Stars tournament.  These young talents will be trained by two UEFA qualified coaches. The young footballers will have once in a life time chance to meet an ex- Arsenal player who will attend the training sessions later this week. This soccer clinic takes place before the launch of the fourth season of Airtel Rising Stars. 

“Football is not just a fun sport but it can also be a career path that can change a player’s life. We know that through this football clinic that Airtel has organized in partnership with Arsenal will equip young talent for professional football careers. We anticipate that the skills gained will empower the young stars to play for national teams in their respective countries,” said FERWAFA president, Vincent DeGauleNzamwita.

The training involves physical, behavioral and technical ways of playing football with emphasis in both practical and theory lessons. It includes dribbling, passing and shooting tactics and most importantly equips the footballers with discipline measures. This soccer clinic offers the young footballers an opportunity to get football knowledge, improved skills and experience from the Arsenal Soccer School coaches.

In his remarks, Airtel Uganda Managing Director, Mr. ArindamChakrabarty said, “Airtel is dedicated to nurture young talent through the Under 17 grassroots football initiative that enables us to reach out to the youth. It is our desire to see young Africans live their dream and soccer is one of our major platforms in doing so .This Soccer Clinic provides world-class training to the youngsters and creates a great opportunity for the young players to engage more in the game. We believe that this training will earn them skills that will empower them in this career path.”

The Airtel Rising Stars initiative is the biggest Under-17 grassroots tournament on the African continent that aims at identifying talent and nurturing upcoming footballers. One of the aspects of this initiative is the soccer clinics where selected talent gets the opportunity to sharpen their raw skills.  This football initiative gives equal opportunity to both boys and girls to get a chance to love their dreams of playing on a national stage. This football tournament has yielded many success stories and has enabled several upcoming soccer talents to join Africa Premier League clubs and their respective countries’ national teams.