E-Business
54gene Signs MoU with ANSTS to Announce Landmark SEN-GENOME Genetics Research Study
54gene, the health technology company advancing African genomics research for improved global health outcomes, has partnered on a new Senegal research study SEN-GENOME, which will establish a full genomic database of the Senegalese population.
Under the purview of the Ministry of Higher Education and Innovation of Senegal, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed in Dakar with the The National Academy of Sciences and Technology of Senegal (ANSTS) and the Department of Human Genetics of the Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odonto-Stomatology of Cheikh Anta Diop University, Dakar.
The groundbreaking study will involve Senegal’s principal ethnolinguistic groups and will be critical in gaining an understanding of human evolutionary history and how this influences disease risk in different human populations.
Studying the underlying genetic characteristics of the Senegalese population will give researchers and medical practitioners a clearer understanding of the hereditary links to health and disease in the country, as well as improving interventions for disease management and treatment.
As less than 3% of genomic data at present comes from African populations, SEN-GENOME has the potential to contribute to new discoveries, for the benefit of the Senegalese, Pan-African and global populations.
Through the SEN-GENOME study, Senegal will become one of the first African countries to establish a full ‘reference genome’, a database giving a full picture of the genetic characteristics of a given population. As such, Senegal is setting itself apart as an innovator in the field of genomic research.
Senegal has historically been a focal point of migration from the continent and a crucial piece in the formation of the African diaspora. As such, this study has the potential to contribute significantly towards extensive and life-changing research related to the health of the world African population.
In addition to important scientific discoveries, SEN-GENOME will pave the way for further research into ancestry and genealogy, providing fresh insight for people of African descent hoping to understand their ancestry.
Commenting on the signing of the agreement, 54gene founder and CEO Dr. Abasi Ene-Obong said, “Africans are the most genetically diverse population and this study is a significant step in enabling Senegal to advance the practice of Precision Medicine in the country.
“We’re honored to collaborate with our partners in Senegal as the country continues to consolidate leadership and innovation by becoming one of the few African countries where genomics research is a reality.”
The study will recruit participants from all regions of the West African country and is expected to establish a baseline genetic characterisation of the Sengalese population.
Through the collaboration, 54gene will bring its expertise and support the training of Senegalse scientists. 54gene is also committed to collaborating with their Senegalese partners on additional projects.
Professor Aynina Cisse, spokesperson for the National Academy of Sciences and Technology of Senegal, said, “SEN-GENOME is a research project initiated by the National Academy of Sciences and Techniques of Senegal (ANSTS), in collaboration with the Human Genetics Department of the Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odonto-Stomatology (UCAD).
The idea germinated, following the observation made by the researchers that the reference sequence of the human genome currently used, does not reflect the genetic diversity of the African populations in general and Senegalese in particular.”
Principal Investigator and Head of Human Genetic Department of the Cheikh Anta Diop University, Dakar, Professor Rokhaya Ndiaye Diallo commented, “The medicine of the future will depend on an understanding of the genetic heritage of each individual. The SEN-GENOME project, the first of its kind in Francophone Africa, aims to create a reference genome for Senegal, reflecting the genetic diversity of the population.
“This database will be used to establish personalized medicine in order to improve the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the most common diseases. It will also allow anthropologists to better understand the socio-cultural history of our communities in the interests of national cohesion.”
By Fabian Tarpael, Abuja
Hisense electronics unveiled a flagship showroom in Abuja over the weekend. Speaking at the event, Mr. Mustapha Khries, the Abuja Branch Manager of the Fouani Group, highlighted the significance of the flagship store, describing it as the first of its kind in the entire West African region.
He also addressed the challenges facing businesses in Nigeria, particularly the high exchange rates and transportation costs.
“The Fouani Group remains resilient and ready to overcome challenges, unlike others who often exit the market when faced with similar issues.”
Ms. Haifa Du, Senior Sales Manager for Hisense Electronics, emphasized the brand’s commitment to affordability and innovation, stating that Hisense offers the most cost-effective and advanced solutions in the market.
The event underscored Hisense’s dedication to technological innovation and sustainability while reaffirming its leadership position in the consumer electronics market.
Mr. Robbin Wei, Senior Sales Manager of Hisense Group, supported by Mr. Greg and Ms. Haifa Du, showcased various innovative products from the new flagship store.
Among the standout products showcased include; The Hisense 110″ Smart Ultra AMOLED TV, featuring unique capabilities such as a solar-powered remote control and a “locate remote” function to find misplaced remotes easily.
PalmPay, Africa-focused fintech operating Nigeria’s most used mobile wallet, and Jumia, Africa’s e-commerce giant, today announce a strategic partnership to enhance the digital payment ecosystem on the continent, starting with payment integrations and co-marketing efforts in Nigeria.
This partnership underscores both parties’ commitment to developing the digital payment ecosystem in Nigeria and grow the use of the cashless economy.
WIth PalmPay now available as a payment method, shoppers on Jumia will now be able to pay for their purchases with the option to check out with their PalmPay wallet, ensuring a seamless user experience and transaction reliability through the direct integration.
“We are proud to partner with Jumia as we bring together the best of fintech and e-commerce to redefine the online shopping experience,” said Sofia Zab, Chief Marketing Officer, PalmPay. “This strategic alliance aligns perfectly with our shared commitment to delivering a superior user experience and exceptional value to our customers.”
Speaking on the partnership, Sunil Natraj, CEO, Jumia Nigeria added: “At Jumia, we are dedicated to creating value for our customers by ensuring a convenient, reliable, and secure shopping experience.
“This partnership with PalmPay strengthens our commitment to enhancing the digital payments within our platform. By integrating PalmPay, we are providing more options for customers to access affordable and quality goods with the convenience of cashless transactions.”
This alliance marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between two industry giants, aiming to drive innovation, increase convenience for consumers, and foster the adoption of digital payments across Africa.
To celebrate the launch of the partnership, PalmPay and Jumia are launching a special Christmas campaign, running from December 11th to 30th. During this period, customers who make purchases on Jumia using the PalmPay payment method will stand a chance to win exciting cash rewards. More details can be found on the brands’ respective social media pages. @palmpay_ng and @JumiaNigeria.
Aero Contractors is thrilled to announce the launch of its “12 Days of Christmas” campaign, a festive and engaging social media initiative designed to spread holiday cheer and reward loyal customers.
Running from December 13 to December 24, 2024, this exciting campaign underscores Aero Contractors’ commitment to connecting families, friends, and communities during the holidays.
The “12 Days of Christmas” campaign invites travel enthusiasts, loyal customers, and holiday travelers to participate in fun and interactive activities on Aero Contractors’ social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). Each day will feature engaging posts such as trivia, puzzles, and challenges designed to ignite the festive spirit and encourage community participation.
Participants are encouraged to follow Aero Contractors’ social media pages, engage with the daily posts by liking, commenting, or sharing, and follow the specific instructions for each day’s activity.
Winners will be selected daily and announced on the respective platforms. Exciting prizes await participants, with the grand reward of a free return economy class ticket—a perfect gift for reconnecting with loved ones or exploring new destinations this holiday season.
“At Aero Contractors, we believe in the power of togetherness, especially during the holidays,” said Capt. Ado Sanusi, Managing Director of Aero Contractors.
“Our ‘12 Days of Christmas’ campaign is our way of giving back to the community that has supported us throughout the year. It’s an opportunity to engage, celebrate, and reward our customers while spreading joy and festive cheer.”
This campaign targets travel enthusiasts, loyal Aero Contractors customers, and families looking to make the most of the holiday season. Through this initiative, Aero Contractors reaffirms its dedication to safe, reliable, and efficient air travel, bringing people closer when it matters most.
Follow Aero Contractors on Instagram, Facebook, and X to join the “12 Days of Christmas” campaign. Engage daily for a chance to win a free return economy class ticket and other exciting offers.
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