Digital transformation among the priorities of Germany’s new strategy for Africa
Access, Capacity development, E-commerce and trade, Telecommunications infrastructure Access, Capacity development, E-commerce and trade, Telecommunications infrastructure UpdatesGermany's new Africa Strategy emphasizes digital transformation as a key priority among other goals, aiming to support African development in alignment with the continent's initiatives. The strategy focuses on engaging in respectful dialogue with Africa, advocating for African representation in international forums, and contributing to the growth of digital economies. Additionally, Germany plans to support various sectors like women's economic participation, healthcare, and the public sector through digitalization efforts.
Nigeria and Rwanda sign Artemis Accords
Space diplomacy Space diplomacy UpdatesNigeria and Rwanda have become the first two African countries to sign the Artemis Accords, a set of nonbinding commitments aimed at promoting peaceful and safe exploration of outer space. The accords outline principles and guidelines for governing civil space activities, focusing on issues like transparency, emergency assistance, and protection of space heritage.
Gender equality in space diplomacy
Gender and diplomacy, Space diplomacy Space diplomacy UpdatesSpace diplomacy should become more gender-inclusive – from changes in the language used in space negotiations, to greater involvement of women in space diplomacy.
US government launches Digital Transformation with Africa initiative
Access, Capacity development, Critical infrastructure, E-commerce and trade, Telecommunications infrastructure Access, Capacity development, Critical infrastructure UpdatesThe US government has launched the Digital Transformation with Africa initiative, committing over $350 million to expand digital access and literacy in Africa. The initiative focuses on three pillars: digital economy and infrastructure, human capital development, and digital enabling environments, aiming to support African Union and sub-Saharan Africa strategies.
Horizon Worlds losing users, reports show
Metaverse Diplomacy UpdatesHorizon Worlds, Meta's metaverse platform, is suffering from a decline in users, falling below its target of 280,000 active users, with less than 200,000 currently. Reports suggest that many users are leaving after the first month, with only 9% of worlds having more than 50 visitors.
Israeli embassy opens in Virtual environment
UpdatesThe Israeli embassy in Korea marks the 60th diplomatic anniversary by unveiling a virtual pavilion in the metaverse. The initiative aims to enhance public diplomacy, fostering Israel-Korea relations. The virtual space allows immersive experiences, interaction, and virtual events, bridging the distance between the two nations. The embassy aspires to continuously update the metaverse pavilion as a new standard for diplomatic outreach.
Kuleba to make the first tour of African countries in history of Ukrainian diplomacy
UpdatesUkrainian Foreign Affairs Minister Kuleba embarks on a historic tour of African nations from October 3 to 14. The aim is to strengthen support against territorial threats, enhance Ukraine's food security role globally, boost educational cooperation, and promote Ukrainian products like the Diia platform, aiming to expand export opportunities through the Nazovni system.
Metaverse, an important digital opportunity according to EU officials
Metaverse Diplomacy UpdatesEuropean Commission president Ursula von der Leyen has published her ‘2022 State of the Union Letter of Intent ', underpinning the Metaverse as an important digital opportunity and trend. While Thierry Breton, the Commissioner for Internal Market of the European Union, explained in a blog post that the Metaverse was one of the European Commission's (EC) most pressing challenges, and that its plan to foster the virtual world will focus on people, technologies, and infrastructure.
Hermès enters the metaverse
UpdatesHermès files trademark for metaverse entry, planning virtual retail, fashion shows, and virtual currency. Other luxury brands have also shown interest by participating in virtual events.
iHeartMedia plans to stage metaverse concerts
Metaverse Diplomacy UpdatesiHeartMedia plans to stage Metaverse concerts. Virtual world mixes engaging gameplay with a regular schedule of amusing events, programming, and unique fan experiences.
