ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP) will soon boost its African industrial park investments, particularly in Togo. The firm recently secured a $450 million commitment from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank).
In detail, $300 million will help bolster existing parks, including Togo’s Industrial Platform of Adétikopé (PIA), and launch new projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Chad, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire. The remaining $150 million will help build an industrial park in Malawi and bolster agricultural export activities.
The $450 million investment is part of a broader $800 million initiative to boost African industrialization.
“This $450 million facility represents a major step forward in supporting Africa’s industrialization efforts,” said Arvind Arora, Treasury Director of ARISE IIP. “This financing covers critical working capital and capital expenditure requirements in various countries, addressing the diverse needs of industrial development.”
Last year, many major global shipping firms joined the PIA in Togo. They include MSC (Italy-Switzerland), MAERSK (Denmark), CMA CGM (France), PIL (Singapore), and ONE (Japan). However, most (around 60%) of the companies on the site are regional and local; they operate in various sectors, such as textiles, agrifood, and pharmaceuticals.
About the author
Italy Appoints World Cup Winner Gennaro Gattuso as Head Coach
On June 15, 2025, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed Gennaro Gattuso as the new head coach of the Italy national team, succeeding Luciano Spalletti, who resigned after a 3-0 loss to Norway. Gattuso signed an initial one-year contract aimed at guiding Italy through the remainder of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, with critical fixtures against Estonia (Sept 5) and Israel. 1. A Symbol of Italian Football The 47-year-old Gattuso is a revered figure in Italian football—capped 73 times, part of the 2006 World Cup-winning squad, and remembered for his fiery leadership on the pitch. FIGC President Gabriele Gravina echoed this sentiment: “The Azzurra jersey is like a second skin for him”, praising his passion, professionalism, and suitability to lead Italy forward. 2. Coaching Track Record Gattuso brings varied managerial experience, having led clubs such as AC Milan, Napoli (winning the […]
Mass “No Kings” Protests Sweep U.S. as Trump Celebrates with Military Parade
On June 14, 2025, aligning with the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and President Trump’s 79th birthday, massive protests erupted in over 2,000 cities, while Trump oversaw a high-profile military parade in Washington, D.C. 1. Scale & Coordination Dubbed the “No Kings” protests, the events may represent the largest single-day demonstrations in U.S. history—drawing 4–6 million people, or 1–2% of the population. Major urban centers such as New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Denver saw large turnouts. The organizing coalition featured the 50501 Movement and activist groups like NAACP, Indivisible, and the Women’s March. 2. Protest Motivations Participants rallied around concerns about: Perceived authoritarian drift and militarization of domestic governance. Use of National Guard and Marines in protests, especially in Los Angeles. Immigration policies, ICE raids, and erosion of democratic norms. 3. Celebrity and Civic Voice Actor Mark Ruffalo likened protestors […]
Education Ministry Consoles Families of Drowned Lawra SHS Students
In response to the tragic drowning of seven students from Lawra Senior High School, Ghana’s Ministry of Education, along with the Ghana Education Service (GES) and NADMO, has offered heartfelt condolences and support to the bereaved families. 1. Rescue Recovery Efforts The canoe carrying ten cadet-based SHS students capsized on the Black Volta River (River Dikpe) on Saturday, June 14, 2025, during a routine jogging session. While three students managed to swim to safety, seven tragically drowned. The final two bodies were recovered early Sunday morning, ending a nearly 24-hour search operation by a combined team of volunteers, police, GES officials, and NADMO personnel. 2. Ministry’s Consolation Role As verification of the recovery effort, officials from the Ministry of Education, GES, and regional disaster managers visited the affected families to express condolences and coordinate psychosocial and financial assistance. The Director-General […]
2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Guide to All 32 Teams and Format
1. Dates & Format When & Where: June 14 – July 13, 2025, across 12 venues in 11 US cities. Format: 32 clubs split into 8 groups of 4; group stage → top two advance to the Round of 16 → knockouts → final (no third-place play-off) . Prize Money: Nearly £100 million total, with significant financial rewards for participating and advancing clubs. 2. Qualified Clubs by Confederation Allocation follows FIFA’s approved slot system: UEFA (12 spots): Powerhouses like Manchester City, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, PSG, Chelsea, Juventus, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, Porto, Borussia Dortmund, Benfica, Red Bull Salzburg. CONMEBOL (6): Champions such as Flamengo, River Plate, Fluminense, Palmeiras, Boca Juniors, Botafogo. AFC (4): Al-Hilal, Ulsan Hyundai, J-League side Urawa Red Diamonds, Al Ain. CAF (3): Likely Al Ahly, Esperance, Wydad AC. CONCACAF (3): Inter Miami (host), Monterrey, Pachuca, plus Seattle […]
Ablakwa Announces Stricter Visa Regulations to Block Illegal Mining Nationals
Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced stricter visa requirements aimed at preventing the entry of foreign nationals intending to participate in illegal small-scale mining (galamsey). The announcement follows his recent diplomatic talks in China, where the focus was on stemming the flow of would-be galamsey operators from regions such as Nanning. 1. Why the New Visa Rules? Officials warn that some visas are being exploited by foreign nationals looking to engage in illegal mining. The new procedures will screen applicants more closely for intended engagement in galamsey, especially in regions known for sending illegal miners to Ghana. 2. Diplomatic Push in China During a June 14 meeting with Nanning city officials—including the Vice Mayor—Ablakwa described discussions as "frank and positive." He emphasized that the Mahama administration will not tolerate illegal mining whether by locals or foreigners, and […]
GRA Postpones Implementation of Energy Sector Levy Scheduled for June 16
Ghana’s Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has indefinitely postponed the roll-out of the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL)—a GH¢1 per litre fuel surcharge slated for June 16, 2025—after stakeholder consultations and a directive from the Finance Ministry. 1. Levy Background Introduced under the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141), the levy was fast-tracked through Parliament—with an estimated GH¢5.7 billion in annual revenue intended to cover energy-sector debts and stabilize power supply. 2. Reason for Postponement The GRA cited a directive from the Minister of Finance, following input from industry stakeholders such as AOMCs, NPA, and Ghana Link Network Services, requiring further operational and technical readiness before implementation. 3. Official Spokesperson’s Statement In a June 13 public notice, Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong confirmed the levy deferral. All relevant agencies—from ports to oil-marketing companies—have been alerted and told to await […]
Related
Togo’s Digital Revolution: e-ID Project Brings Biometric Identity to All
A Transformational Initiative for National Development The Togolese government is making significant strides in its e-ID project, with biometric registration now actively underway in the Gulf prefecture. Citizens are flocking to centers across Lomé and surrounding areas to obtain their Unique Identification Number (NIU) - a crucial document that's becoming essential for accessing services and rights. Key Features of the e-ID System ✔ Universal coverage: Available to all residents regardless of age or nationality✔ Biometric security: Advanced technology prevents fraud and identity theft✔ Multi-purpose use: Serves as gateway to numerous government services Beyond Identification: A Tool for Social and Economic Inclusion The NIU represents much more than just an ID card - it's a powerful instrument for development: Social Benefits 🏥 Universal health coverage access🌾 Agricultural subsidies for farmers🛠 Support programs for informal workers♀ Financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs Economic Advantages 💳 Bank account opening made easier📈 Business formalization for informal sector💰 Microcredit access to grow enterprises Strengthening Governance and Security […]
Changement de Garde à la Tête de la DMP : Brigitte Adjamagbo-Johnson Passe le Relais
Une Transition Programmée La Dynamique pour la Majorité du Peuple (DMP) connaît un changement de leadership :✔ Brigitte Kafui Adjamagbo-Johnson (députée et figure historique de l'opposition) quitte son poste de coordinatrice✔ Sambiri N'wakim Targone (président des Démocrates Socialistes Africains) prend la relève Contexte Institutionnel ◼ Passation prévue par les textes fondateurs du mouvement◼ Continuité assurée malgré ce changement Origines et Positionnement de la DMP Naissance dans la Contestation ➡ Scission en 2023 de la Dynamique Monseigneur Kpodzro (DMK)➡ Choix stratégique : Participation aux élections législatives et régionales de 2024 Ligne Politique Affirmée ✔ Opposition constructive (contrairement au boycott de la DMK)✔ Maintien du cap pour le changement politique Perspectives Sous Nouvelle Direction Les Défis de Sambiri N'wakim Targone ✅ Unifier les différentes sensibilités du mouvement✅ Consolider la stratégie électorale✅ Élargir l'influence de la DMP 💬 Et Vous ?Ce changement de leadership peut-il renforcer l'opposition togolaise ? Qu'attendez-vous de la nouvelle direction ? Exprimez-vous en commentaires !
Christianisme et Spiritualités Africaines : Un Dialogue des Traditions au Togo
Rencontre Inédite Entre Foi Chrétienne et Héritage Spirituel Africain La Paroisse Universitaire Saint Jean Apôtre de Lomé a organisé samedi une conférence internationale sur le thème "Christianisme et Religions Traditionnelles Africaines", réunissant : ✝ Responsables religieux chrétiens🌿 Représentants des spiritualités africaines Deux Visions, Un Dialogue ✔ Togbui Dagban Ayivon IV (Chef d'Adakpamé) :"La spiritualité africaine ne se limite pas au vodun, c'est toute une école de pensée"→ Plaidoyer pour une revalorisation des traditions ancestrales ✔ Père Charles Kuzo :"Les sources pures sont une illusion"→ Mise en garde contre une vision idéalisée du passé Vers une Coexistence Apaisée Malgré les divergences, un consensus émerge :✅ Respect mutuel entre les traditions✅ Complémentarité possible des spiritualités✅ Importance du vivre-ensemble au Togo Enjeux Clés 🌍 Préservation de l'identité culturelle🕊 Harmonie interreligieuse📚 Transmission aux jeunes générations 💬 Et Vous ?Comment concilier christianisme et traditions africaines ? Ces spiritualités peuvent-elles coexister ? Partagez votre point de vue en commentaires !
Fête des Pères au Togo : Une Journée de Tendresse et de Reconnaissance
Hommage National aux Héros du Quotidien Ce dimanche, le Togo célèbre avec chaleur la Fête des Pères, rendant hommage à : 👨👧👦 Pères de famille👴 Grands-pères🛡 Tuteurs et figures paternelles Ambiance Festive à Travers le Pays ✏️ Poèmes et dessins d'enfants🍛 Repas familiaux partagés🎶 Chansons dédiées aux pères dans les salons et marchés Le Père Togolais : Un Pilier Silencieux Rôle Essentiel ✔ Protecteur discret mais constant✔ Pourvoyeur de l'éducation des enfants✔ Transmetteur des valeurs de travail et de dignité "Merci pour vos sacrifices, votre patience et vos conseils parfois stricts mais toujours bienveillants", murmurent des milliers d'enfants à travers le pays. Faure Gnassingbé Salue les Pères Togolais Le Président du Conseil a adressé un message de félicitations à tous les pères, soulignant leur contribution essentielle à la société togolaise. 💬 Et Vous ?Comment avez-vous célébré votre père aujourd'hui ? Quel est votre plus beau souvenir avec lui ? Partagez votre hommage en […]
Faure Gnassingbé Invité au Premier Sommet Économique Ouest-Africain
Une Invitation Stratégique pour le Togo Le Président du Conseil, Faure Gnassingbé, a reçu ce dimanche Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Ministre d'État nigériane aux Affaires étrangères et envoyée spéciale du Président Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Lors de cette rencontre, une invitation officielle a été transmise pour participer au : 🌍 Premier Sommet Économique Ouest-Africain (WAES)📅 20-21 juin 2025 à Abuja, Nigeria Objectifs Clés du Sommet WAES 1. Renforcer l'Intégration Régionale ✔ Dynamiser le commerce intra-africain✔ Harmoniser les politiques économiques 2. Favoriser les Partenariats Stratégiques 🤝 Public-Privé pour un développement durable💡 Innovation et industrialisation 3. Répondre aux Défis Continentaux ◼ Adaptation aux changements géopolitiques◼ Sécurité alimentaire et énergétique◼ Autonomisation économique Une Coopération Régionale Renforcée Ce sommet s'inscrit dans la dynamique de :✅ Solidarité ouest-africaine (CEDEAO)✅ Souveraineté économique collective✅ Stratégie commune face aux enjeux globaux 💬 Perspectives TogolaisesQuels dossiers prioritaires le Togo devrait-il porter à ce sommet ? Comment optimiser les retombées pour l'économie nationale ? Partagez vos suggestions […]
Les Évêques Togolais Entre Prêche et Engagement Politique : Jusqu’où Doivent-ils Aller ?
Une Prise de Position Forte qui Fait Débat Lors de leur 139ème session ordinaire, les évêques togolais ont une nouvelle fois commenté la situation sociopolitique du pays, mêlant : ✝ Messages spirituels traditionnels🗣 Prises de position militantes sur l'actualité Déclarations Clés de la CET ✔ "Nous condamnons fermement toutes les formes de violence"✔ "Dénonciation de la culture du mensonge et de la désinformation" Une Frontière Floue Entre Spiritualité et Politique Pour Certains Observateurs : ⚠ Risque de dérive vers un rôle d'opposition politique⚠ Instrumentalisation possible des messages religieux⚠ Nécessité de recentrage sur la mission spirituelle Pour les Défenseurs de cette Position : ✅ Devoir moral d'interpellation✅ Rôle historique de l'Église comme conscience nationale✅ Légitimité à parler des enjeux de société Analyse : Quelle Place pour l'Église dans le Débat Public ? Arguments Pour 🔹 Tradition d'engagement social de l'Église catholique🔹 Besoin de voix indépendantes dans l'espace public Arguments Contre 🔸 Risque de politisation excessive🔸 Possible perte de crédibilité spirituelle […]