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54gene’s ACTG Awards $64,000 Scholarship to Further Genomics Research
54gene, the health technology company advancing African genomics research for improved global health outcomes, has announced the awarding of $64,000 in scholarships to four PhD candidates in Nigeria, Uganda and South Africa.
Through the African Centre for Translational Genetics (ACTG), a non-profit initiative launched by 54gene in February 2020, the grants awarded will be used to further develop translational genomics research capacity across Africa, and will cover all expenses of the recipients during their postgraduate study.
The ACTG’s mission is to invest in the continent’s health ecosystem by empowering the next generation of African genomics scientists through the provision of scholarships, grants, fellowships, internships and training programmes. The PhD scholarship awards were the primary focus for the ACTG in 2021.
Following a three month pan-African call for applications and a rigorous selection process, four successful recipients were handpicked from a total of 46 applications and were awarded grants to advance their genomics research studies in the areas of cardiometabolic diseases, cancers, neurological diseases and sickle cell disorders.
The four candidates that have now been awarded the PhD scholarships are studying at different institutions spread across Africa – two are based at Makerere University, Uganda, one at University of Pretoria, South Africa and the last awardee is based at Covenant University in NIgeria.
- Rejoice Gomera – University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Christopher Kintu – Makerere University, Uganda
- Abimbola Onyia – Covenant University, Nigeria
- Chisom Soremekun – Makerere University, Uganda
54gene, through the ACTG in 2020, launched the NCD-GHS Consortium composed of Nigerian geneticists in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) and the National Biotechnology Development Agency’s Center for Genomics Research and Innovation (NABDA-CGRI).
Preliminary findings from the Consortium’s landmark study into non-communicable and cardio-metabolic diseases were shared at the American Society of Human Genetics Conference in October, 2021.
The study found seven distinct clusters among the 50 under-studied ethnolinguistic groups in Nigeria with some groups showing evidence of shared genomic regions with northern African and European groups. In comparison to European populations, the study also replicated previous research showing lower levels of Neanderthal genome sharing in Nigerian groups.
Speaking on the scholarships, Dr. Abasi Ene-Obong, CEO of 54gene, said, “Developing the next generation of genomic scientists is critical in ensuring that the knowledge, resources and insights derived from homegrown research benefits not only Africans but the global population.
Access to funding as well as to our international team of genetic and bio-medical specialists is a unique opportunity for these talented African researchers who, like us, want to unlock the boundless potential offered by the human genomic diversity of African populations. The funding and available resources will put them at par with their counterparts in developed countries and make them more confident in leading future research studies.”
With over $45 million in investment raised by the company since its launch, the PhD candidates will receive up to $4,000 annually for four years, to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
Recipients will have the opportunity to work alongside leading researchers at 54gene and its partner institutions (NIMR and CGRI), who are experts in genomic data science, bioinformatics and molecular genetics. Recipients will also be given access to state-of-the-art genomic technologies and the opportunity to co-publish novel findings in collaboration with these leading scientists.
Aminu Yakubu, VP Research Governance and Ethics at 54gene and ACTG representative said, “There is incredible African talent in the genomics space, but opportunities to undertake research and conduct desired tests is limited due to inadequate infrastructure. Supporting and powering pan-African genomics research, especially for non-communicable diseases, has been a key impact marker for 54gene since the company launched in 2019.
“This is why we are thrilled to offer these outstanding researchers the opportunity to carry out ground-breaking research that will contribute to future health outcomes and benefit the field of genomics research on the continent and also globally.”
Prof. Babatunde Salako, Chairman NCD-GHS Steering Committee and Director-General, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR),said, “Despite the global health crisis of the past two years, genomic science has not ceased to be important, nor have our scientists allowed their thirst for ground-breaking research to become extinguished.
“It has been a great pleasure to serve the committee by reviewing the 46 applicants, who are some of the brightest minds on the continent. This initiative is also a massive win for Africa as we deepen our efforts to become leaders in genomic research.”
As 54gene expands its operations and partnerships in the coming years, the ACTG looks forward to equally expanding the coverage of its empowerment activities to reach more research scientists in academia and research institutes.
Through these efforts, the ACTG is building on the giant precedent work undertaken by organizations like the Human Hereditary and Health in Africa (H3Africa) Consortium, and the African Academy of Sciences among others.
Thembi Alfreds was driving home from a soccer match in Johannesburg when she stopped at a traffic light. A thief suddenly appeared and smashed the window of her car, grabbing her phone. She struggled with the thief but they managed to get away with the phone.
The incident left her feeling violated and unsafe. Not only did she lose personal memories, like photos of her children, but her personal and financial information stored on the phone was now compromised.
Phone theft is a serious concern in many countries across Africa, including South Africa, where Thembi’s situation highlights the need for better phone theft solutions.
Smartphone usage is on the rise in Sub-Saharan Africa, with adoption rates reaching 61% in Kenya, 31% in Uganda, and 24-25% in Rwanda and Burundi. This increased uptake has been accompanied by a rise in cellphone theft, as these devices become attractive targets for criminals due to their resale value and sensitive data within. This poses a significant challenge that can have serious consequences for both individuals and businesses in the region.
According to the GSMA Consumer Survey 2023, 19% of mobile phone users in South Africa experienced theft or loss of their device in the past year.The GSMA reports millions of devices stolen every year, and the numbers continue to grow. With our phones becoming increasingly more valuable & central to storing sensitive data, like payment information and personal details, losing one can be an unsettling experience.
Phone theft can be a traumatic experience, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk and protect personal information. That’s why we have developed and thoroughly beta tested, a full suite of features designed to protect you and your data at every stage – before, during, and after device theft.
These advanced theft protection features are now available to users around the world through Android 15 and a Google Play Services update (Android 10+ devices).
Theft Detection Lock uses powerful AI to proactively protect you at the moment of a theft attempt. By using on-device machine learning, Theft Detection Lock is able to analyze various device signals to detect potential theft attempts. If the algorithm detects a potential theft attempt on your unlocked device, it locks your screen to keep thieves out.To protect your sensitive data if your phone is stolen, Theft Detection Lock uses device sensors to identify theft attempts.
This feature is rolling out gradually to ensure compatibility with various devices, starting today with Android devices that cover 90% of active users worldwide. Check your theft protection settings page periodically to see if your device is currently supported.
In addition to Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock protects you if a thief tries to take your device offline to extract data or avoid a remote wipe via Android’s Find My Device. If an unlocked device goes offline for prolonged periods, this feature locks the screen to ensure your phone can’t be used in the hands of a thief.
If your Android device is lost or stolen, Remote Lock can quickly help you secure it. Even if you can’t remember your Google account credentials in the moment of theft, you can use any device to visit Android.com/lock and lock your phone with just a verified phone number. Remote Lock secures your device while you regain access through Android’s Find My Device – which lets you secure, locate or remotely wipe your device. As a security best practice, we always recommend backing up your device on a continuous basis, so remotely wiping your device is not an issue.
These features are now available on most Android 10+ devices via a Google Play Services update and must be enabled in settings.
Advanced security to deter theft before it happens
Android 15 introduces new security features to deter theft before it happens by making it harder for thieves to access sensitive settings, apps, or reset your device for resale:
- Changes to sensitive settings like Find My Device now require your PIN, password, or biometric authentication.
- Multiple failed login attempts, which could be a sign that a thief is trying to guess your password, will lock down your device, preventing unauthorized access.
- And enhanced factory reset protection makes it even harder for thieves to reset your device without your Google account credentials, significantly reducing its resale value and protecting your data.
Later this year, we’ll launch Identity Check, an opt-in feature that will add an extra layer of protection by requiring biometric authentication when accessing critical Google account and device settings, like changing your PIN, disabling theft protection, or accessing Passkeys from an untrusted location. This helps prevent unauthorized access even if your device PIN is compromised.
Real-world protection for billions of Android users
By integrating advanced technology like AI and biometric authentication, we’re making Android devices less appealing targets for thieves to give you greater peace of mind. These theft protection features are just one example of how Android is working to provide real-world protection for everyone. We’re dedicated to working with our partners around the world to continuously improve Android security and help you and your data stay safe.
You can turn on the new Android theft features by clicking here on a supported Android device. Learn more about our theft protection features by visiting our help center.
Lagos State Government has awarded a whooping sum of N100 million in grants to 26 successful young agripreneurs at the maiden edition of Agrinnovation.
The grant award ceremony took place yesterday, Tuesday 14, November 2024 at Marcelina house Ikeja Lagos, and was attended by top government official from the Lagos State Government and technocrats of renown.
Agrinnovation, was not only the the very first of its kind, but an audacious step which was organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, in conjunction with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), and the Eko Innovation Centre and designed to foster meaningful conversations, collaboration, and groundbreaking innovations within the agricultural sector.
Some of the successful young startup agriprenuer who benefitted from the Lagos State Government include; Farmcraft Foods limited, Rehoboth 910, Foodie world, Hommal foods, Ofadahub Nigeria limited, Dharkag Empire limited, D-olivette Renewable Energy and Green Mall.
Others are; Dehydrator hub, Agricfood Technology limited, Corporate farmers international limited, Ultra Farms Integrated Ventures limited, Eti Farms Global limited, Hairat Ajao & Co ( Fisherwoman, Happy Coffee, Ecotutu Limited, Ofadaboy Company, Leky Mills Limited, Yellow fish limited, Ufarmy Ecoedu-Tech Solution Limited, Fauzziyah’s Honey Limited, Green Republic Limited, Price Pally Limited among others.
In his address, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ably represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde, stated that the state will not stop until she achieves food security and production serving as an example to other parts of the nation and Africa.
He also said that the gesture is a symbol of what the state can achieve when it trusts the youth to lead and supports them in doing so.
His words, “We gather here with the purpose to build sustainable agriculture and food system for the next generation and to ensure that Lagos not only sustains itself but leads Nigeria and Africa towards food security and agricultural excellence.
“As a government, we understand that agriculture development depends on more than just traditional practices. It requires us to embrace technology, foster collaboration and create sustainable practices that endure.
“I want to commend particularly the creation of the Lagos Agrinnovation Club. This club is not just an initiative, it has become a community of young agriprenuers, a hub of creativity and a platform for those who dare to reimagine agriculture.
“This year’s Agrithon saw 316 business case entries from dynamic startups, championed by young people who are driven by their vision to transform agriculture and build sustainable solutions.
The 26 finalists we honour today have not only made it through a rigorous selection process but have also shown us that the future of food in Lagos is brought. With access to mentorship, network and share of the N100 million Agrinnovation Fund, these entrepreneurs will have the resources to take their enterprise’s solutions further”.
He also said that the young entrepreneurs will be monitored to ensure that they use the grant well. “To our Agrithon finalists I urge you to put this funding to excellent use, as you’ve demonstrated through your impressive and innovative ideas”, he added.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Abisola Olusanya, Honourable Commissioner of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems of Lagos state expressed her appreciation to all in attendance and especially to the jurors who worked tirelessly in the selection process of the 26 finalists.
“We would like to thank everyone for being here, especially our jurors, who worked throughout the rigorous process on the Agrithon programme, helping us with the selection process from 316 business entries to 26.
“We are here to celebrate young entrepreneurs who have not waited for the government to give them opportunities but have looked within themselves and others for inspiration. They have made themselves and their enterprises something to be proud of and we are proud to be associated with them.
“They have shown that agriculture is indeed a pathway towards being prosperous as a nation, they have shown passion and connectivity. We are proud to celebrate them, to encourage other people to come into the state.
“We want newcomers to know that there is a lot to gain in the agricultural space and particularly in the direction that the government of Governor Samwo-olu is going, there is enough to unearth in the coming months. It is up to you newcomers to come in and plug into what is happening in the sector.”
Also speaking at event and charging benefiacries of the grants, was Mr Victor Afolabi, the Founder of Eko Innovation Centre, according to him, it was important that entrepreneurs understand that investments should be meant for businesses and not for personal upliftment.
His words; “It’s very important for founders to understand that you are not a celebrity, when you raise funds, use it for the business that it was meant for.”
Afolabi who is a serial entrepreneur, noted that it was necessary for young founders to embody discipline when it came to work, addding that this was contributing to the demise of many young startups in the country.
Corroborating his thoughts, Aisha Raheem, the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Farmz2u, noted the importance of plan and vision.
According to her, many startups lose this vision when they become profitable at the first instance.
This was also echoed by Jummai Abalaka, Founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO) who noted that it was necessary to have a positive attitude towards work.
She said that this works hand in hand to ensure the success of enterprises in the country. They pressed on the matter of separating work from personal wants.
Also speaking at the event, was Prince SJ Samuel, the Chairman of Origin Tech Group who noted that innovation was facing a lot of challenges in the Nigerian landscape.
He pointed out that the average farmer earns about two thousand dollars and takes home about 40%, with more than half of the earnings going into logistics and other expenses.
He also noted that Inflation is very high in the Nigerian economy and food inflation makes up about 38% of that which serves as a major concern in the country.
The entrepreneur stated that the agricultural space contributes about 37% to gdp of the country. Although he a plauded the current administration for its investment in the agricultural sector in the country, compared to its predecessors.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, Mobile Money (MoMo) services have become essential for managing financial transactions conveniently and securely. MTN’s MoMo service offers a plethora of features that can enhance your financial management.
Here are six effective ways to utilise MoMo PSB (Payment Service Bank) to streamline your financial activities.
Cash Deposits and withdrawals
One of the key functions of MoMo PSB is for cash deposits and withdrawals. Users can easily deposit cash into their MoMo Wallets through authorised ATM or POS agents that support the service.
This feature allows you to manage your cash flow efficiently without needing a traditional bank account. To withdraw cash, simply visit a nearby MoMo agent, provide your wallet number, and receive your funds immediately.
Business Transactions
MoMo PSB recently announced their partnership with Vendy LTD, a marketplace on WhatsApp for business owners to get closer to their customers on their favourite apps.
Interested buyers browse inventory, place orders, get invoiced automatically and pay directly on WhatsApp using the MoMo PSB in app payment. You can now say bye to taking screenshots of payment receipts and say hello to a swift payment method.
Bill Payment
With MoMo PSB, paying bills has never been easier. You can settle utility bills, school fees, and other recurring payments directly from your mobile device using USSD codes or the MoMo app. It eliminates the need for physical visits to payment centres and helps you avoid late payment penalties by ensuring timely transactions.
Airtime Purchases
Another convenient feature of MoMo PSB is the ability to purchase airtime directly from your wallet. Whether you need to recharge your phone or buy data bundles, you can do so quickly without needing cash or credit cards. Simply select the amount you wish to purchase and confirm the transaction using your MoMo PIN.
Peer-to-Peer Transfers
Transferring money between friends and family is seamless with MoMo PSB. You can send money instantly to anyone with a MoMo wallet by entering their phone number and the desired amount.
This feature is particularly useful for splitting bills or sending money to loved ones in need without incurring high transfer fees associated with traditional banking methods.
Linking your Wallet to Other Financial Services
To maximise the benefits of using MoMo PSB, consider linking your wallet to other financial services such as savings accounts or Investment platforms. This integration allows for easy fund transfer between accounts and provides better control over your finances by consolidating all transactions in one place.
By leveraging these five functionalities of MoMo PSB, users can enjoy greater convenience in managing their finances while benefiting from the security that comes with mobile money services.
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