United Arab Emirates Ambassador has once again reaffirmed its commitment to establishing Ghana's $1 billion Innovation and Technology Hub

On the 24th of this month, the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) CEO, Mr. Simon Madjie has praised the UAE's proposed $1 billion innovation hub as a transformative project for Ghana's digital economy and global competitiveness.

During a meeting with UAE Ambassador Dr. Abdulla Almandoos, Madjie, highlighted the initiative's potential to accelerate Ghana's technological excellence.

"This initiative can accelerate Ghana’s digital transformation and position the country as a hub for technological excellence in the region “he said.

The project, fully funded by the UAE's Ports, Customs, and Free Zones Corporation (PCFC) with Ghana providing the land, is set to begin in 2026 and complete by late 2027. Ambassador Almandoos emphasized mutual benefits and encouraged telecom companies to establish operations, offering UAE licenses to hub occupants.

He explained that “this Ghana-UAE Innovation and Technology Hub aims to drive sustainable growth, foster collaboration, and boost innovation across various sectors.

Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, officially inaugurated the newly established Technical and Vocational Education and Training College, GTC Enugu, during her recent two-day working visit to Enugu State. This institution represents the first of eight technical and vocational colleges that Governor Peter Mbah is establishing across the federal constituencies of Enugu State, signifying a distinct shift from traditional, rote-based education to experiential, skill-driven learning. GTC Enugu boasts 24 ultra-modern training centers, including facilities dedicated to ICT and digital innovation, renewable energy, welding and fabrication, auto-mechatronics, refrigeration and air conditioning, fashion design and garment making, hospitality, and more. The facility also includes two modern hostels capable of housing up to 1,000 resident male and female students.

The deal, signed on June 16, 2025, during the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) in Changsha, China, includes a large-scale titanium extraction project in Salima and the creation of a state-of-the-art mineral processing facility in the country.

Following the signing, the country’s Minister of Mining, Dr. Ken Zikhale Ng’oma, hailed the deal as a strategic breakthrough, emphasizing its alignment with President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera’s long-term vision of transforming mining into a key driver of the national economy.

“This MoU signals a new era; anchored on sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth. It aligns squarely with President Chakwera’s agenda to turn mining into a driver of national development,” Ng’oma said.

Notably, Hunan Sunwalk CEO and Founder Hou Xingwang described the agreement as a strategic milestone for both nations, stating that it will, “facilitate the flow of capital, technology, and skilled human resources between China and Malawi”

He also expressed interest in exploring investments in agriculture and other sectors to contribute to Malawi’s broader economic development.

Ng’oma emphasized that the partnership goes beyond raw material extraction, delivering technological transfer, strict environmental compliance, and human resource development.

He highlighted Hunan Sunwalk’s successful performance in Zimbabwe as a testament to the company’s capabilities.

Reassuring the public, the Minister said, “This is the first time Malawi has entered into such a comprehensive MoU with a multinational mining corporation.”

“We ensured that due diligence was conducted thoroughly, and we are confident that the interests of Malawians are well protected.” He added.

Officials from both parties described the agreement as a “win-win” venture, with potential to create thousands of new jobs, infrastructure development, and enhance economic growth.

The Chinese company has reportedly commenced exploration and feasibility studies in the Salima District.

Did You Know? Before the onset of the war, the Igbo region had the distinction of being the most literate in Nigeria. In the early 1960s, the Eastern Region had achieved the highest school enrollment and literacy rate in the country. Between 1960 and 1967, a remarkable over 90% of children in the East were enrolled in primary schools. The presence of thriving missionary and community-led schools in the region was a notable feature. The establishment of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria's first indigenous university, in the East in 1960, was a significant milestone. It highlighted the Igbo people's strong emphasis on education. The Eastern Region's rapid development, earned it the nickname "The African Japan", driven as it was by education, trade, and innovation. This progress is all the more remarkable given that it predated the discovery of oil, the war, and federal allocations. It was a testament to the Igbo values of self-help, community, and knowledge. Now you know. The Igbo people have consistently demonstrated their pioneering spirit, not just in the realm of business, but also in education.