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Apple Announces “Let Loose” Event: What to Expect

By
Boses Muhinda
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0

Apple has just announced its upcoming event titled “Let Loose,” scheduled for May 7. Unlike recent in-person events, this one seems to be happening exclusively online, maintaining a format that became common during the pandemic. While Apple has gradually returned to in-person events, such as WWDC starting on June 10 in Cupertino, this event appears to stick with the online-only trend.

Given its online nature, the “Let Loose” event is expected to focus on one or two select products, possibly indicating smaller announcements. Apple likely has some bigger news reserved for its upcoming developer conference, which takes place about a month later.

The event’s artwork prominently features an image of a hand holding an Apple Pencil, accompanied by the handwritten tagline “Let Loose.” This suggests that we might see new iPad models or accessories introduced, as Apple hasn’t updated its tablet line since 2022. Rumors suggest that the new iPad Pro and iPad Air models could feature the M2 and M3 chips, respectively.

Regarding the Apple Pencil, early references found in the iOS 17.5 beta hint at a potential “squeeze” feature for the upcoming fourth-generation version. Additionally, there are rumors of an updated version of the Magic Keyboard case for the iPad Pro.

The event kicks off May 7 at 5p.m. EAT in Ugandan time.

Meet the Mountain Gorillas Virtually Via My Gorilla Family App

By
Doryn Crystal
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0

In August 2023, Uganda unveiled a pioneering solution to safeguard the endangered mountain gorillas: the “My Gorilla Family” app. Developed by RoundBob and the Naturalist, two Ugandan conservation enterprises, this subscription-based mobile application has transformed the landscape of wildlife conservation in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

For a modest fee starting at just US$2 per month, users are invited to immerse themselves in the captivating world of mountain gorillas. The app offers exclusive content and regular updates about these magnificent creatures, allowing subscribers to embark on a virtual journey alongside their adopted gorilla family while simultaneously supporting crucial conservation initiatives.

At the core of this groundbreaking initiative stands Fidelis Kanyamunyu, a former poacher turned honorary wildlife officer. Having grown up in the vicinity of Bwindi Forest, Kanyamunyu witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of poaching on gorilla populations. Driven by a fervent desire to enact positive change, he partnered with David Gonahosa to devise a solution that harnesses the power of technology for conservation.

The My Gorilla Family app not only fosters a profound sense of connection between users and the mountain gorillas but also serves as a catalyst for global engagement in conservation efforts. By capitalizing on the widespread appeal of digital platforms, Uganda aims to secure sustainable funding streams crucial for the long-term protection of mountain gorillas.

Gonahosa underscores the significance of this initiative, emphasizing its potential to raise awareness and inspire a new generation of gorilla ambassadors worldwide. Through innovative features such as real-time updates on gorilla birthdays and births, the app fosters a deeper appreciation for these majestic creatures and their delicate ecosystem.

Uganda’s embrace of technological conservation mirrors similar initiatives across the African continent. From Rwanda’s Gorilla Gram campaign to Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Friend a Gorilla Campaign, countries are increasingly turning to digital solutions to amplify conservation efforts and engage a global audience.

In a world where the survival of endangered species hangs in the balance, the My Gorilla Family app emerges as a beacon of hope. It symbolizes a collaborative endeavor to protect not only the mountain gorillas of Uganda but also the rich biodiversity of our planet for generations to come. As users embark on their virtual safari, they become active participants in the ongoing quest to ensure a future where humans and gorillas coexist harmoniously.

The app’s innovative approach to conservation has garnered widespread acclaim, attracting attention from wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and tech enthusiasts alike. Its user-friendly interface and compelling content have captivated audiences around the globe, sparking a renewed interest in gorilla conservation and environmental stewardship.

Moreover, the success of the My Gorilla Family app has paved the way for further advancements in technological conservation. Its model serves as a blueprint for future endeavors aimed at leveraging digital platforms to protect endangered species and preserve critical habitats.

As the global community grapples with the urgent need to address environmental challenges, initiatives like the My Gorilla Family app offer a ray of hope. They demonstrate that by combining innovation, collaboration, and passion, we can forge a path towards a more sustainable future for all life on Earth.

GorillaGram: Using Instagram to Protect Mountain Gorillas

By
Boses Muhinda
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0

In the heart of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, amidst the lush greenery and mist-covered peaks, resides a community of gentle giants—the mountain gorillas. These majestic creatures, with their soulful eyes and powerful presence, captivate the hearts of all who encounter them. Yet, their existence teeters on the brink of extinction, threatened by poaching, habitat loss, and human encroachment.

Enter Gorilla Gram, a pioneering initiative born out of the collaboration between Visit Rwanda and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Launched in September 2022, Gorilla Gram harnesses the power of social media, particularly Instagram, to rally support for the conservation of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

At its essence, Gorilla Gram serves as a channel for conservation and awareness. It invites visitors to become active participants in the protection of these endangered creatures by sharing their experiences on Instagram. With a simple click of their smartphone cameras, visitors capture moments of awe and wonder as they trek through the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park, coming face to face with gorilla families in their natural habitat.

But Gorilla Gram goes beyond mere photo-sharing. It empowers visitors to make a tangible impact through the use of designated tags on their Instagram posts. These tags, carefully curated by Gorilla Gram, serve as digital breadcrumbs, guiding rangers, researchers, and monitoring teams to track the movements and behaviors of gorilla families and individual gorillas. Through sophisticated aggregation systems, the posted photos are organized into smart galleries, providing valuable insights into the lives of these gentle giants.

For followers and visitors alike, Gorilla Gram offers a window into the world of gorilla conservation. In real time, they can engage with rangers and researchers, learning about the challenges facing these endangered species and the efforts being made to ensure their survival. By actively participating in the conversation, followers become stewards of conservation, spreading awareness and garnering support for the protection of Rwanda’s 12 habituated gorilla families.

Rwanda, renowned as one of the premier destinations for gorilla trekking, holds a special place in the hearts of wildlife enthusiasts. The Rwanda Volcanoes are home to nearly a third of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas, making it a critical stronghold for their conservation. Gorilla Gram serves as a beacon of hope for these magnificent creatures, offering a lifeline in the face of mounting threats.

The story of the mountain gorillas is one of resilience and triumph against the odds. In the 1970s, their population dwindled to a mere 200 individuals, pushing them to the brink of extinction. Today, thanks to concerted conservation efforts, their numbers have rebounded to over 1,060 individuals. Yet, the journey is far from over.

As guardians of the forest, it falls upon us to ensure the continued survival of these remarkable creatures. Gorilla Gram reminds us that each photo shared, each tag added, is a step towards a brighter future for Rwanda’s mountain gorillas. Through collective action and unwavering dedication, we can safeguard their habitat, preserve their legacy, and ensure that generations to come will marvel at their beauty and grace.

Vivendi’s Canal Plus Makes $1.7 Billion Bid for MultiChoice Group

By
Brian Code
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0

Vivendi’s Canal Plus, the largest shareholder in South Africa’s MultiChoice Group (MCGJ.J) with a 31.67% stake, has made an offer to acquire all remaining shares in the company in a deal valued at approximately $1.7 billion. The move aims to bolster MultiChoice’s position in the competitive international market for pay TV services.

Under the proposed deal, Canal Plus plans to offer 105 rand per share in cash, representing a 40% premium to MultiChoice’s closing share price on the preceding Wednesday. Although MultiChoice’s shares surged following the announcement, they remained below the offer price, reflecting investor uncertainty about the deal’s certainty.

Canal Plus emphasized that its offer is non-binding and indicative at this stage. However, once due diligence is completed, the company intends to submit a formal letter of firm intention to MultiChoice’s board. MultiChoice confirmed receipt of the letter from Canal Plus and pledged to keep shareholders informed of any further developments.

Maxime Saada, Chairman and CEO of Canal Plus, highlighted the strategic importance of the potential acquisition for MultiChoice’s future growth in Africa. He emphasized the need for enhanced scale and expertise to navigate the evolving market landscape, which includes competition from international streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon, and Disney.

Saada emphasized that if the deal is successful, it would provide MultiChoice with the resources needed to invest in scaling up operations, supporting local African talent, and creating compelling content. MultiChoice has previously invested significantly to combat competition and strengthen its offerings, including partnering with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky to enhance its Showmax streaming service.

Canal Plus also indicated its intention to pursue a listing, following proposals by parent company Vivendi to split into four entities. The company expressed interest in eventually listing in South Africa as part of its strategic plans.

Vivendi’s Canal Plus, the largest shareholder in South Africa’s MultiChoice Group (MCGJ.J) with a 31.67% stake, has made an offer to acquire all remaining shares in the company in a deal valued at approximately $1.7 billion. The move aims to bolster MultiChoice’s position in the competitive international market for pay TV services.

Under the proposed deal, Canal Plus plans to offer 105 rand per share in cash, representing a 40% premium to MultiChoice’s closing share price on the preceding Wednesday. Although MultiChoice’s shares surged following the announcement, they remained below the offer price, reflecting investor uncertainty about the deal’s certainty.

Canal Plus emphasized that its offer is non-binding and indicative at this stage. However, once due diligence is completed, the company intends to submit a formal letter of firm intention to MultiChoice’s board. MultiChoice confirmed receipt of the letter from Canal Plus and pledged to keep shareholders informed of any further developments.

Maxime Saada, Chairman and CEO of Canal Plus, highlighted the strategic importance of the potential acquisition for MultiChoice’s future growth in Africa. He emphasized the need for enhanced scale and expertise to navigate the evolving market landscape, which includes competition from international streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon, and Disney.

Saada emphasized that if the deal is successful, it would provide MultiChoice with the resources needed to invest in scaling up operations, supporting local African talent, and creating compelling content. MultiChoice has previously invested significantly to combat competition and strengthen its offerings, including partnering with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky to enhance its Showmax streaming service.

Canal Plus also indicated its intention to pursue a listing, following proposals by parent company Vivendi to split into four entities. The company expressed interest in eventually listing in South Africa as part of its strategic plans.

(Conversion rate: $1 = 18.7137 rand)

URA, South Sudan Revenue Authority partner to fight smuggling, and dumping

By
GURU8 Staff
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0

The government of South Sudan through its National Revenue authority (NRA) has partnered with Uganda Revenue Authority to weed out smuggling and dumping.

The Commissioner General of South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) Africano Mande paid a visit to URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi to discuss his country’s plans to apply new cargo monitoring system.

Commissioner Mande announced the collaboration between SSRA and INVESCO, Ugandan company that will provide cargo-tracking technology.

“Collections from customs have been low, pushing us to make tough decisions to improve. Invesco’s services will help us improve collections and even exceed our targets’ Commissioner Mande said.

He further said that SSRA hope to learn from URA.

The Democratic Republic of Congo signed Invesco in 2021 when its revenue collections at border points were low. DRC was collecting $9 million per month but as per statistic from the revenue body in DRC, it is estimated that they collect approximately, $220 million per month as compared to $9 which represents 600% growth in revenue collection.

Previous efforts by South Sudan government and Revenue Authority to curb this revenue loss has failed through a company called K-Polygon and hence, they reverted to URA and Invesco to give them a solution like they did in Congo and this should help raise revenue for both URA and South Sudan Revenue Authority(SSRA) in a bid to raise revenue and help curb smuggling and dumping.

Uganda has been losing a lot of revenue on dumping which also causes inflation in the economy.

This will also reduce the VAT refund racket where people claimed to heading to South Sudan and leave goods on the market while claiming for VAT refund from URA. It is estimated that Uganda has been losing about Shs10 billion a day while South Sudan could have lost more.

Elon Musk’s Acquisition, X (Formerly Twitter), Sees a 71% Depreciation in Value Since Purchase

By
Brian Code
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0

Elon Musk’s social media venture, X, is currently assessed at approximately $12.5 billion, according to a recent evaluation conducted by mutual fund Fidelity. Notably, this valuation represents a significant decline of 71.5 percent since Musk’s acquisition of the platform in October 2002 when he, along with a consortium of investors, paid a substantial $44 billion for what was then known as Twitter. Fidelity, an equity holder in X, conducted the analysis through November 2023, encompassing the period during which the platform experienced notable setbacks, primarily linked to an advertiser exodus triggered by Musk’s controversial actions.

In mid-November, Musk’s endorsement of an antisemitic and white supremacist conspiracy theory on X led to severe repercussions. A subsequent report by Media Matters for America exposed major brands’ ads appearing alongside pro-Nazi content on the platform, prompting companies like Apple and Disney to suspend advertising. The fallout contributed to a significant portion of the losses incurred by X, with Axios reporting a 10.7 percent decline in November alone.

The final weeks of 2023 proved challenging for X, with an estimated $75 million in advertising losses due to the boycott. Musk’s confrontational stance, exemplified by telling advertisers to “go [themselves]” during an interview, further strained the platform’s standing. Musk continued his provocations in December, taunting Disney CEO Bob Iger on X for Disney’s continued advertising on other platforms.

Fidelity’s assessment of X’s value has consistently dwindled over the past year. In May 2023, the company valued X at approximately $15 billion. The current trajectory suggests that unless Musk implements significant changes, the decline in X’s valuation may persist. The unfolding developments in 2024 are poised to be pivotal for the future trajectory of X.

ICEA LION Addresses Client Concerns Transparently Amidst Social Media Buzz

By
Brian Code
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0

Recent social media claims by Mr. Andrew Kyamagero regarding his insurance claim for vehicle registration number UBK 291B under the insurance policy of his employers, Africa Broadcasting Uganda Limited (ABUL), have stirred discussion in the tech community. Recognizing the stress associated with unexpected vehicle breakdowns, ICEA LION aims to provide a transparent response to these concerns within the tech landscape.

Highlighting the swift acknowledgment of Mr. Kyamagero’s claim on November 21, 2023, and the subsequent thorough investigations, the article emphasizes the settlement offer (Discharge Voucher) issued to ABUL. This voucher instructed payment to EASY RIDE, an automotive repair garage chosen by Mr. Kyamagero but not part of ICEA LION’s approved panel of partner automotive repair garages. The offer covered expenses such as the purchase and installation of a new engine, towing costs, and more.

Underlining the significance of the post-repair inspection on December 14, 2023, revealing that the engine had been repaired instead of being replaced as agreed upon, the article sheds light on the subsequent delay in settling Mr. Kyamagero’s claim due to the need for engine replacement. ICEA LION’s stance is reinforced, stating that once a client chooses a preferred garage, the insurer cannot be held liable for any resulting substandard repairs.

The piece underscores ICEA LION’s proactive approach in reaching out to and meeting Mr. Kyamagero on January 2, 2024. This meeting signifies ICEA LION’s unwavering commitment to resolving the matter within the tech community with utmost priority, diligence, and dedication to ensuring complete client satisfaction.

Acknowledging ICEA LION’s significant presence in Uganda for nearly twenty-five years, the article emphasizes the insurer’s commitment to exceeding customer expectations within the tech industry. It reassures Mr. Kyamagero and all ICEA LION clients that the company actively addresses concerns, aiming to provide transparent and human-centered solutions.

For inquiries, claims notifications, or complaints with ICEA LION, users can contact them on their Toll-Free: 0800 100311 / 0800 100120 or Email: contactcentre@icea.co.ug

WhatsApp Web Enhancements: Dark Mode in the Works for a Consistent Visual Experience

By
Brian Code
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0

WhatsApp is currently undergoing significant enhancements, particularly in the realm of its web client. One of the anticipated updates is the introduction of a new dark theme, aligning its aesthetics with the popular Android app.

The proposed dark theme for WhatsApp Web is part of the platform’s broader strategy to offer users a consistent visual experience across different platforms. Dark themes have gained popularity due to their reduced eye strain and improved user comfort, especially in low-light conditions.

Source: WABetaInfo

The impetus for this change follows recent improvements to the Android app’s dark mode color scheme in December. Despite these positive changes, the web client did not undergo a similar makeover during that period. However, recent reports indicate that WhatsApp is actively working on bringing a darker theme to its web version.

The updated color scheme for WhatsApp Web is expected to be a shade darker than its current state, providing users with a more refined and visually appealing interface. This move is in response to users’ expectations for a consistent look and feel whether they are using WhatsApp on their mobile devices or accessing it through a web browser.

In addition to the dark theme, WhatsApp is also investing efforts in refining the sidebar of its web client. This improved sidebar is designed to complement the new dark mode and contribute to an overall cohesive visual redesign. The sidebar is a crucial element of the user interface, offering navigation and quick access to various features.

Recent developments also saw WhatsApp testing the ability to share status updates through its web client, indicating a broader set of enhancements for this platform. The web client is becoming increasingly important, especially given its versatility – it can be accessed on any system with a browser, providing an alternative for users who may not have a native WhatsApp client or prefer using a web interface.

Despite being one of the largest messaging platforms globally, WhatsApp continues to actively update and test new features to enhance user experience. In December, the platform introduced features like pinned messages and the ability to search for users by username. This ongoing commitment to improvement aligns with WhatsApp’s goals of staying at the forefront of user expectations.

While the new dark theme for WhatsApp Web is still in the development stage, its eventual release is anticipated to provide users with a refreshed and visually cohesive experience, bringing the web client more in line with the aesthetics of the Android app.

Source: Android Police

Kisoro Industrial Park Makes Strides in Economic Transformation

By
Brian Code
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0
UIA Director General Robert Mukiza

The noteworthy progress of the Kisoro Industrial Park takes center stage. Spearheaded by the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), the allocation of 620 acres in Bunagana and Rukundo Town councils by Kisoro district authorities signals a significant shift in the economic landscape.

During the 2023 Isangane Festival, where Director General Robert Mukiza played a prominent role as the chief guest, expressions of gratitude were extended to local authorities for their vital support. UIA’s meticulous approach, from obtaining a land title to initiating a feasibility study and defining the park’s borders, underscores a dedicated commitment to the project. The next phase involves crucial discussions on financing, bringing the vision of an industrial park in Kisoro one step closer to realization.

Beyond the cultural festivities, the Isangane Festival, organized by the Ubuntu Bafumbira United Association (UBUA), carries a noble mission of supporting Maternal Health Care in the hard-to-reach Health Centre III in Kisoro district. Mukiza’s commendation of Ubuntu’s role in fostering global connections among Bafumbira underscores the importance of identity and unity in developmental pursuits.

This development aligns seamlessly with President Museveni’s vision for the economic upliftment of the region. As Uganda embraces industrialization, with President Museveni approving 25 industrial parks across all sub-regions in May 2021, Kisoro’s narrative emerges as a compelling chapter. Stay tuned to [Your Publication’s Name] for in-depth updates on this unfolding story of economic growth and transformation.

The Influence of Agile Culture on Business Outcomes

By
Brian Code
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0

In today’s dynamic business landscape, adopting Agile methods has become a pivotal factor for companies aiming to enhance their operational efficiency and market responsiveness. This article delves into how embedding an Agile culture influences business outcomes, advocating for utilising services from Agile companies, agile consulting firms, and Agile development companies to foster a transformation into a fully-fledged Agile company.

Agile Ways of Working: A Catalyst for Change

Agile is an approach that embodies a set of values and principles focused on flexibility, collaboration, and customer-centricity. It’s not merely a methodology but an attitude towards product and service development, aligning with specific values and principles.

The Core Values of Agile

  1. Individuals and interactions over processes and tools.
  2. Working software over comprehensive documentation.
  3. Customer collaboration over contract negotiation.
  4. Responding to change by following a plan.

These values highlight the essence of Agile: adaptability, client-focused solutions, and a preference for practical results over rigid processes.

The Strategic Impact of Agile Principles

Agile principles revolve around frequent delivery, embracing change, and continuous improvement. Companies adopting these principles notice significant improvements in:

  • Speed to Market – Agile firms quickly respond to market changes, giving them a competitive edge.
  • Quality Improvement – Regular reviews and adaptations lead to higher-quality products.
  • Customer Satisfaction – Close collaboration with customers ensures that final products meet their needs.

Role of Agile Entities in Business Transformation

Engaging with an agile coaching company or an agile consulting firm can be instrumental in steering your organisation towards becoming an agile company. They provide expert guidance, facilitate the adoption of Agile practices, and help teach an Agile mindset among employees.

Why Choose an Agile Development Company

An agile development company specialises in implementing Agile practices in software development. This includes rapid iterations, continuous feedback, and adaptive planning, which are crucial for timely and effective software delivery.

The Benefits of Agile Coaching

An agile coaching company is vital in mentoring teams, helping them effectively understand and implement Agile values and principles. This guidance is critical in nurturing an Agile culture within the organisation.

The Path to Becoming an Agile Company

Transitioning to an Agile way of working involves several key steps:

  1. Understanding Agile Values – It starts with comprehending the core Agile values and how they can be applied to your business processes.
  2. Implementing Agile Practices – Integrating Agile practices like Scrum, Kanban, or Lean into daily operations.
  3. Continuous Learning and Adaptation – Encouraging a culture of ongoing learning and flexibility to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

The Role of Scrum Master and Product Owner

The Scrum Master and Product Owner are pivotal in Agile teams. The Scrum Master facilitates the process, ensuring the team adheres to Agile practices. At the same time, the Product Owner bridges the gap between the customer and the development team, ensuring that the product aligns with customer needs.

Summary

In conclusion, embedding an Agile culture in your organisation increases productivity, product quality, and customer satisfaction. Collaboration with agile consulting, coaching, and development companies is a wise investment towards becoming a robust, agile company.

Transform your business with Agile. Discover how at Meirik.

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