Month: August 2023

AI-Media and Middleman Announce Ad Insertion Partnership

Middleman and AI-Media Enter New Ad Insertion Partnership

Middleman and AI-Media Enter New Ad Insertion Partnership

BROOKLYN, N.Y., Aug. 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AI-Media, and Middleman Software, Inc., a leading provider of SCTE 104 and 35 messaging solutions, have joined forces to offer broadcasters a powerful, unified SCTE 104/35 messaging solution for live production workflows.

AdIT: Middleman Software’s AdIT Live revolutionizes the generation of SCTE 104 and 35 messages in real-time, enabling monetization of direct-to-stream live events where a playout automation system is not required.

Alta: AI-Media’s Alta Caption Encoder Software integrates live closed captioning, subtitling, and SCTE 104/35 message injection into live IP video production environments, making it a natural choice for broadcasters.

Simplified Architecture

Through the seamless integration of AdIT Live and Alta, broadcasters can automatically generate and inject any SCTE 104 and 35 messages directly into ST 2110 and MPEG transport streams, alongside closed captioning and subtitling data. No additional components in the signal chain are required.

Multiple Profiles in a Single Stream

AdIT Live and Alta Software support the entire SCTE 104/35 standard, offering advanced capabilities that empower broadcasters. One notable feature is the ability to route multiple “streams” of distinct SCTE 104/35 messages to individual recipients via the same video stream by leveraging DPI PID index values to identify unique services, ensuring efficient and parallel distribution without wasted bandwidth.

This joint solution simplifies and enhances live production workflows to provide broadcasters unprecedented control and flexibility to maximize advertising revenue at scale.

Middleman’s CEO James Heliker stated: “We are thrilled to partner with AI-Media to deliver a comprehensive and modern solution for SCTE 104/35 messaging for live production. Our collaboration sets a new benchmark for the industry, empowering broadcasters with advanced control, flexibility, and monetization capabilities in their live productions.”

Bill McLaughlin, Chief Product Officer, AI-Media, commented about the partnership: “Our Alta systems have gained significant popularity among traditional large broadcast networks and world-leading OTT sports channels due to their unique flexibility in injecting real-time SCTE triggers into compressed or SMPTE-2110 workflows. However, many of our customers struggle to fill these trigger messages with detailed live data from other sources of business intelligence.

To address this challenge, we have partnered with Middleman to incorporate their AdIT system to offer an integration layer that optimizes the automation and content monetization advantages of a complete end-to-end SCTE-35 solution. By combining AdIT with Alta, the triggering system can transcend traditional on/off signalling, unlocking a multitude of possibilities. We look forward to working with Middleman on this and future collaborations.”

About AI-Media

Founded in Australia in 2003, technology company AI-Media is a global leader in live and recorded captioning, transcription and translation solutions. The company helps the world’s leading broadcasters, enterprises and government agencies ensure high accuracy, secure and cost-effective captioning via its AI-powered LEXI automatic captioning solution. LEXI captions are delivered to millions of screens worldwide via AI-Media’s range of captioning encoders and its iCap Cloud Network – the world’s largest, most secure caption delivery network. Globally, AI-Media delivers over 8 million minutes of live and recorded media monthly. AI-Media trades on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX:AIM. For more information, please visit AI-Media.tv.

About Middleman

Since its inception in 2017, Middleman Software, Inc. has been at the forefront of revolutionizing media workflows through automation. The company has emerged as a leading provider of advanced ad monetization technologies, delivering cutting-edge capabilities to major networks and station groups. Their flagship product, AdIT, automates the generation of SCTE 104 and 35 messages so broadcasters can seamlessly implement frame-accurate dynamic ad insertion on their OTT feeds. With AdIT, broadcasters experience significantly increased revenues without disrupting existing broadcast operations. To learn more about Middleman Software, Inc. and AdIT, please visit Middleman.tv.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5845b76f-8bf0-4aae-a882-c1bf42246f57

Media Contact:
Fiona Habben
Senior Marketing Manager – Global
Fiona.habben@ai-media.tv

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8914123

Lifezone Metals Reports Completion of Tembo Zone Infill Drilling at the Kabanga Nickel Project with 41 m Intersect at 2.07% Ni, including 16.4 m at 2.77% Ni

Infill Drilling Continues at North Zone Intersecting 52.0 m at 2.37% Ni, including 39.8 m at 3.03% Ni; Safari Link Drill Plan Connecting Tembo and Safari Zones to Commence in September 2023

New York (United States), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Aug. 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lifezone Metals Limited (“Lifezone Metals” or the “Company”) (NYSE: LZM), a modern metals company creating value across the battery metals supply chain from mine to metals production and recycling, is pleased to announce an update on its resource definition drilling programme at its Kabanga Nickel project (“Kabanga”) in North-West Tanzania. The Kabanga Nickel project is owned jointly by Lifezone Metals, through its subsidiary Kabanga Nickel Ltd (“KNL”) and BHP Billiton (UK) DDS Limited (“BHPB”), forming Tembo Nickel Corporation Limited (“TNCL”), the operating entity, together with the Government of Tanzania.

Infill and extensional drilling at the Tembo Zone, which will support an upcoming Mineral Resource estimate (“MRE”) and the Definitive Feasibility Study (“DFS”), was successfully completed in July 2023 using four diamond drill rigs on average. Tembo Zone drilling completed from 2021 through July 2023 (see Figure 1) by TNCL comprised of 49 holes, resulting in a total of 23,748 m of diamond drill core available for geological logging and sampling. A further nine holes for a total of 2,596 m were drilled at the Tembo Zone for metallurgical sampling, plus six geotechnical holes (2,312 m) to support the ongoing DFS. Drill core was logged to capture geological and geotechnical features in the on-site drillhole database, and samples were submitted for analysis to SGS’s laboratory in Mwanza, Tanzania.

Highlights from Tembo Zone drilling includes:

  • Hole KL22-10 intersected 41 m at 2.07% Ni, 0.39% Cu, and 0.16% Co, (2.67% NiEq23[1]), including 16.4 m at 2.77% Ni, 0.45% Cu, and 0.23% Co, (3.59% NiEq23),
    (see     Figure 4 and Figure 5).
  • Hole KL22-12 intersected 39.6 m at 2.04% Ni, 0.37% Cu, and 0.13% Co, (2.55% NiEq23), including 19.9 m at 2.83% Ni, 0.44% Cu, and 0.19% Co, (3.53% NiEq23),
    (see     Figure 6 and Figure 7); and
  • Hole KL21-01 intersected 29.7 m at 1.94% Ni, 0.29% Cu, and 0.16% Co, (2.51% NiEq23), including 17.0 m at 2.42% Ni, 0.38% Cu, and 0.21% Co, (3.15% NiEq23).

Lifezone Metals’ CEO, Chris Showalter said: “Even after years of exploration and >620 km of drilling to date, the Kabanga orebody continues to showcase its quality differential with world-class nickel grades. The most recent infill drilling at the Tembo Zone ensures we can progress towards an updated Mineral Resource estimate, which is crucial for the Definitive Feasibility Study and ultimately support the mine plan.”

Please refer to the Figure in the Press Release as attached or on our website at Lifezone Metals – News – Press Releases 

Figure 1 Oblique Long Section of Kabanga Project Mineralisation Zones showing Drilling Eras and Mineralised Intercepts >0.58% NiEq23
(looking north-west)

Infill drilling continues at the North Zone, with five diamond drill rigs in operation since late‑June 2023. Three holes have since been completed and seven are underway (two currently pre-collared only) for a total of 6,626 m of drill core (to 18 August 2023).

Recent highlights from the North Zone infill drilling includes:

  • Hole KN22-03 intersected 52.0 m at 2.37% Ni, 0.25% Cu, and 0.14% Co, (2.85% NiEq23), including 39.8 m at 3.03% Ni, 0.32% Cu, and 0.18% Co, (3.65% NiEq23); and
  • Hole KN22-01A intersected 27.7 m at 2.56% Ni, 0.32% Cu, and 0.22% Co, (3.29% NiEq23).

Gerick Mouton, COO added: “We are working well on the ground with the rigs and local laboratories, and I am pleased to see this package of work for the Tembo Zone infill drilling campaign come together. With these intersects and grades on both Tembo and North Zones it undoubtably underscores Kabanga’s immense quality. Other ongoing drilling activities, undertaken by four additional rigs, relate to surface and mine geotechnical and hydrological drilling supporting the DFS designs and water balance.”

Since December 2021, TNCL has completed 82 holes for more than 35 km of diamond core drilling at Tembo, North, and Safari (to 18 August 2023).

All field work since December 2021 has been conducted on Special Mining Licence ‘SML 651 / 2021’.

Table 1 shows composites of assay results received to 18 August 2023 from drilling completed by TNCL since late-2021, with a lower cut-off of 0.58% NiEq23.

Table 1 Composited Assay Results >0.58% NiEq23 for Holes Drilled between
2021–18 August 2023

BHID From To Length Ni Cu Co S Density NiEq23 NiEq23 x length
#
(m) (m) (m) (%) (%) (%) (%) (g/cm3)
*		 (%)
TEMBO ZONE
KL22-10 361.0 402.0 41.0 2.07 0.39 0.16 – 3.93 2.67   110
..includes 363.0 364.0 1.0 0.65 0.07 0.01 – 2.85 0.70  
365.0 373.0 8.0 1.29 0.45 0.06 – 3.29 1.65  
373.8 380.8 7.0 2.67 0.44 0.20 – 4.37 3.40  
381.8 398.2 16.4 2.77 0.45 0.23 – 4.62 3.59  
KL22-12 383.0 422.6 39.6 2.04 0.37 0.13 – 3.92 2.55   101
..includes 385.0 393.4 8.4 1.44 0.44 0.06 – 3.24 1.78  
397.7 417.6 19.9 2.83 0.44 0.19 – 4.66 3.53  
418.3 419.6 1.2 1.45 0.26 0.10 – 3.89 1.83  
KL21-01 367.2 396.9 29.7 1.94 0.29 0.16 – 3.00 2.51   74
..includes 370.2 376.3 6.1 2.40 0.28 0.21 – 3.00 3.10  
376.9 393.9 17.0 2.42 0.38 0.21 – 3.00 3.15  
KL22-14 292.3 321.0 28.7 1.94 0.29 0.16 – 4.10 2.49   72
..includes 295.3 304.2 8.9 1.95 0.30 0.14 – 4.29 2.47  
304.9 317.9 13.1 2.53 0.37 0.21 – 4.59 3.27  
KL22-01 367.0 395.5 28.5 1.61 0.24 0.14 – 3.00 2.10   60
..includes 369.0 369.3 0.3 1.76 0.11 0.19 – 3.00 2.34  
371.3 371.6 0.4 0.59 0.08 0.07 – 3.00 0.82  
371.9 372.7 0.7 0.69 0.56 0.08 – 3.00 1.14  
373.0 391.6 18.7 2.27 0.33 0.20 – 3.00 2.97  
391.9 392.5 0.6 2.04 0.18 0.18 – 3.00 2.62  
KL21-02 572.3 596.0 23.7 1.80 0.25 0.17 – 3.00 2.37   56
..includes 572.0 572.3 0.3 1.57 0.07 0.12 – 3.00 1.93  
572.3 574.3 2.0 0.65 0.15 0.00 – 3.00 0.72  
575.3 575.7 0.4 0.80 0.15 0.06 – 3.00 1.02  
576.3 593.6 17.3 2.31 0.31 0.23 – 3.00 3.08  
316.3 333.4 17.1 2.24 0.30 0.21 – 3.00 2.94  
335.4 335.5 0.1 2.49 0.23 0.21 – 3.00 3.17  
KL22-13 398.3 421.3 23.0 1.73 0.27 0.11 – 3.89 2.14   49
..includes 383.0 384.0 1.0 0.59 0.19 0.01 – 2.86 0.70  
384.8 386.3 1.5 0.69 0.58 0.02 – 3.06 0.97  
387.0 398.3 11.3 2.44 0.39 0.17 – 4.46 3.07  
398.3 413.2 14.9 2.21 0.34 0.14 – 4.33 2.74  
416.8 418.3 1.6 1.50 0.17 0.12 – 3.56 1.88  
KL22-11A 433.2 464.0 30.8 1.08 0.16 0.09 – 3.54 1.40   43
..includes 436.2 437.9 1.7 2.39 0.19 0.20 – 4.46 3.01  
446.1 457.0 10.9 1.87 0.24 0.16 – 4.13 2.40  
459.0 461.0 2.0 0.64 0.07 0.05 – 3.27 0.82  
KL22-20 321.6 340.6 19.0 1.65 0.23 0.11 – 3.65 2.04   39
..includes 325.6 337.6 12.0 2.19 0.29 0.15 – 4.13 2.72  
KL22-09 221.3 241.0 19.7 1.43 0.27 0.12 – 3.74 1.87   37
..includes 224.3 236.0 11.7 2.02 0.36 0.17 – 4.19 2.63  
KL22-11 430.0 457.0 27.0 1.07 0.16 0.07 – 3.44 1.32   36
..includes 434.6 436.6 2.0 0.71 0.19 0.06 – 3.39 0.96  
437.5 440.3 2.8 2.73 0.20 0.19 – 4.53 3.33  
441.0 448.0 7.0 1.50 0.22 0.10 – 3.76 1.86  
449.0 452.3 3.3 1.08 0.19 0.02 – 3.43 1.23  
KL23-23 644.3 667.7 23.4 1.18 0.13 0.08 11.73 3.24 1.47   34
..includes 647.3 663.4 16.1 1.54 0.16 0.11 15.22 3.42 1.90  
679.0 682.0 3.0 0.71 0.06 0.04 3.77 2.73 0.84  
KL22-04 485.4 510.0 24.6 0.96 0.16 0.10 – 3.66 1.31   32
..includes 488.4 502.0 13.6 1.38 0.22 0.15 – 4.06 1.89  
KL22-23 274.4 296.0 21.6 0.96 0.12 0.08 – 3.09 1.22   26
..includes 276.8 286.0 9.3 1.50 0.19 0.12 – 3.48 1.91  
288.0 290.1 2.1 0.90 0.10 0.07 – 3.06 1.15  
291.9 292.2 0.3 1.97 0.11 0.15 – 3.77 2.42  
KL23-21 675.2 693.1 17.9 1.12 0.13 0.08 12.03 3.35 1.40   25
..includes 678.2 688.5 10.3 1.69 0.17 0.13 18.22 3.48 2.12  
KL22-08 221.0 242.4 21.4 0.86 0.16 0.08 – 3.54 1.15   25
..includes 224.0 225.8 1.8 1.53 0.24 0.16 – 4.34 2.08  
226.3 237.4 11.1 1.11 0.21 0.11 – 3.79 1.49  
KL22-03 578.5 591.1 12.6 1.45 0.22 0.15 – 3.00 1.94   24
..includes 580.5 591.1 10.6 1.71 0.25 0.17 – 3.00 2.29  
591.6 593.0 1.4 1.03 0.29 0.11 – 3.00 1.44  
KL22-17 270.7 288.5 17.8 0.98 0.17 0.08 – 3.43 1.28   23
..includes 272.7 285.5 12.8 1.23 0.21 0.10 – 3.63 1.61  
KL22-05 428.5 445.1 16.6 0.84 0.18 0.08 – 3.44 1.14   19
..includes 431.5 434.6 3.1 1.93 0.28 0.19 – 4.57 2.57  
436.6 438.6 2.0 0.70 0.14 0.07 – 3.38 0.94  
439.6 442.1 2.5 0.76 0.11 0.08 – 3.31 1.02  
KL23-01 291.5 305.5 14.0 1.03 0.14 0.08 – 3.20 1.32   18
..includes 295.2 301.8 6.6 1.73 0.18 0.14 – 3.64 2.19  
KL22-06 380.3 395.0 14.7 0.89 0.14 0.08 – 3.50 1.17   17
..includes 383.3 392.3 9.0 1.25 0.20 0.11 – 3.82 1.64  
KL22-19 431.0 445.0 14.0 0.66 0.09 0.04 – 2.97 0.80   11
..includes 433.5 436.6 3.1 1.01 0.12 0.05 – 3.09 1.19  
439.2 439.8 0.7 1.09 0.12 0.07 – 3.32 1.33  
442.3 443.1 0.9 2.64 0.16 0.17 – 4.22 3.17  
468.1 468.4 0.4 1.18 0.04 0.09 – 3.73 1.45  
KL23-02 279.0 288.7 9.7 0.93 0.10 0.05 – 2.97 1.11   11
..includes 283.1 285.7 2.6 2.22 0.24 0.12 – 3.74 2.66  
KL22-16 280.2 294.6 14.4 0.53 0.12 0.05 – 3.25 0.71   10
..includes 283.2 288.4 5.2 0.97 0.22 0.09 – 3.57 1.32  
KL22-15 192.0 203.5 11.5 0.50 0.10 0.04 – 3.15 0.66   8
..includes 195.3 196.6 1.3 1.93 0.45 0.16 – 4.09 2.55  
197.4 198.5 1.1 0.96 0.15 0.08 – 3.50 1.24  
KL22-24 324.0 330.8 6.8 0.63 0.10 0.02 – 2.93 0.72   5
..includes 326.8 327.8 1.0 2.54 0.25 0.05 – 4.20 2.78  
707.4 707.4 0.1 2.15 0.29 0.21 31.00 4.22 2.85  
708.3 709.1 0.8 2.33 0.30 0.22 31.00 4.31 3.07  
KL22-07 402.3 402.5 0.2 3.70 0.03 0.16 – 3.27 4.15   1
KL22-22 317.0 317.8 0.8 1.31 0.19 0.10 – 3.53 1.68   1
KL23-22 763.5 764.5 1.0 0.68 0.04 0.04 5.84 2.90 0.81   1
NORTH ZONE
KN22-03 238.0 290.0 52.0 2.37 0.25 0.14 – 3.00 2.85   148
..includes 239.0 240.0 1.0 1.10 0.11 0.02 – 3.00 1.20  
244.1 283.9 39.8 3.03 0.32 0.18 – 3.00 3.65  
KN22-01A 369.3 397.0 27.7 2.56 0.32 0.22 – 3.00 3.29   91
KN22-01 366.1 399.5 33.4 1.96 0.27 0.15 – 3.00 2.49   83
..includes 322.9 323.9 1.0 2.52 0.20 0.17 – 3.00 3.06  
360.0 360.5 0.5 19.16 0.59 0.79 – 3.00 21.58  
368.8 393.0 24.2 2.43 0.32 0.18 – 3.00 3.07  
393.5 396.5 3.0 1.93 0.29 0.19 – 3.00 2.58  
KN22-02 434.0 466.2 32.2 1.23 0.19 0.09 – 3.00 1.56   50
..includes 437.2 451.9 14.7 2.52 0.40 0.19 – 3.00 3.21  

* Default density of 3.0 g/cm3 used (along with sample length) for assay grade weighting where density results not yet returned from the laboratory
# Table sorted highest to lowest NiEq23 x Length of main composite interval per hole
Composited interval average grades weighted by sample length and density.
Main composite interval permitted to include individual samples <0.58% NiEq23 but only reported if entire interval meets cut-off of 0.58% NiEq23.
Sub-composite intervals break at samples <0.58% NiEq23.

Figure 2 TNCL Geologist Team Inspecting Drill Core from the Tembo Zone. From left to right: Jackline Bahati (Geologist), Innocent Ntabala (Senior Geotechnician), and Marry Mushi (Geologist)

Please refer to the Figure in the Press Release as attached or on our website at Lifezone Metals – News – Press Releases 

The current North Zone drilling programme is expected to be complete by mid-September 2023, after which focus will shift to a new drilling programme that has been developed for the currently untested zone between Tembo North and Safari, known as the Safari Link programme.

Drilling in Tembo North and Safari shows that the shallow mineralisation trend is open along strike. The Safari Link drilling programme aims to test for the presence of Tembo-style mineralisation, as signalled by airborne EM/magnetics and ground EM coverage, which shows no significant gaps along strike to the north-east of Tembo.

The Safari Link drilling programme, which covers a strike length of approximately 1.5 km and comprises 62 diamond core drillholes for approximately 34 km of drilling, has been approved by TNCL. This programme (see Figure 3) is expected to require approximately six months to complete with six diamond drill rigs and will proceed in three phases: the first of which will test the presence of mineralisation in the Safari Link Zone, and the subsequent phases will infill as required to increase confidence in the characteristics and volume of any mineralisation that is identified to enable its incorporation into subsequent geological modelling.

Please refer to the Figures in the Press Release as attached or on our website at Lifezone Metals – News – Press Releases 

Figure 3 Plan View showing Safari Link Planned Drilling Programme against backdrop of Kabanga Project Mineralisation Zones Drilling Eras and Mineralised Intercepts >0.58% NiEq23 (plan rotated 055°)

Figure 4 Core Photo showing Massive Sulfide Mineralisation in KL22-10
Mineralised Interval 376.14–389.48 m = 13.34 m at 2.56% Ni, 0.44% Cu, and 0.20% Co, (3.28% NiEq23) (includes 0.96 m of internal waste (<0.58% NiEq23) 380.82‍–‍381.78 m (shown by red arrows))

Figure 5 Core Photo showing Massive Sulfide Mineralisation in KL22-10
Mineralised Interval 389.48–398.18 m = 8.7 m at 2.77% Ni, 0.46% Cu, and 0.24% Co, (3.63% NiEq23) (end of mineralised interval shown by red arrow)

Figure 6 Core Photo showing Massive Sulfide Mineralisation in KL22-12
Mineralised Interval 397.7–410.94 m = 13.24 m at 2.84% Ni, 0.43% Cu and 0.19% Co, (3.54% NiEq23)

Figure 7 Core Photo showing Massive Sulfide Mineralisation in KL22-12
Mineralised Interval 410.94–417.57 m = 6.63 m at 2.81% Ni, 0.45% Cu, and 0.19% Co, (3.51% NiEq23) (end of mineralised interval shown by red arrow)

Figure 8 Jumbe Maulid (Geology Superintendent) from TNCL showing Massive Sulphide in Drill Core from Hole KN22-03 at North Zone, which intersected 52.0 m at 2.37% Ni, 0.25% Cu, and 0.14% Co, (2.85% NiEq23)

Additional Information Attached: Kabanga Geological History and MRE Overview

Qualified Person

The exploration results disclosed in this news release were prepared under the supervision of and approved by Ms. Sharron Sylvester, Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (2512), and RPGeo (10125) in the fields of Mining and Mineral Resource Estimation. Ms. Sylvester is employed by OreWin Pty Ltd and engaged by Lifezone Metals Ltd. to act as independent Qualified Person for purposes of Subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K (“S-K 1300”) for the Kabanga project. She has appropriate qualifications and sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and has reviewed the technical and scientific data disclosed herein and conducted appropriate verification of the underlying data.

The Mineral Resource estimates discussed in this news release were first published in a Technical Report Summary (TRS) titled ‘Kabanga 2023 Mineral Resource’ dated 30 March 2023 and effective as at 15 February 2023. The reader is encouraged to review the 2023 Kabanga TRS, which is available as Exhibit 15.2 filed with LZM’s Form 20‑F on with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s EDGAR system (sec.gov) on 11July 2023and is available at the following link: https://sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1958217/000121390023030343/ff42023ex96-1_lifezone.htm

About Lifezone Metals 

Lifezone Metals (NYSE: LZM) is a modern metals company creating value across the battery metals supply chain from resource to metals production and recycling. Our mission is to provide commercial access to proprietary technology and cleaner metals production through a scalable platform underpinned by our tailored hydromet technology. This technology has the potential to be a cleaner and lower cost alternative to smelting, allowing us to responsibly and cost-effectively provide cleaner metals.

By pairing the Kabanga Project in Tanzania, which we believe is one of the largest and highest-grade undeveloped nickel sulphide deposits in the world, with our proprietary Hydromet Technology, we will work to unlock the value of a key new source of supply to global battery metals markets. We have a long-standing partnership with BHP on the Kabanga Project, with BHP having invested USD100 million, as we work to empower Tanzania to achieve full value creation in-country and become the next premier source of nickel.
www.lifezonemetals.com

Additional Information: Kabanga Geological History and MRE Overview  

Geology Overview

The Kabanga nickel deposit is located within the East African Nickel Belt (EANB), which extends approximately 1,500 km along a north-east trend from Zambia to Uganda.

The northern and central sections of the EANB are characterised by a thick package of Paleoproterozoic to Mesoproterozoic metasedimentary rocks, known as the Karagwe–Ankole Belt (KAB), within which occurs a suite of broadly coeval, igneous intrusions that correspond to the Kibaran tectonothermal event (1,350–1,400 Ma).

At the project area, the metasediments, which comprise pelites, sandstones, and quartzites, are overturned steeply dipping (70° to 80° to the west), with a north–north-east strike orientation (025°) from Main to North, changing to a north-east strike orientation (055°) from North to Safari (see Figure 9).

The potentially economic nickel-bearing massive sulfides are hosted within igneous chonoliths that are concentrically zoned with a gabbronorite margin and an ultramafic cumulate core. The project comprises six distinct sulfide mineralisation zones, namely (from south-west to north-east) Main, MNB, Kima, North, Tembo, and Safari, which occur over a strike length exceeding 7.5 km.

Kabanga sulfide mineralisation occurs both as:

  • Disseminated to net textured interstitial sulfides within the cumulate core zone of the chonoliths, as well as externally; and
  • Massive and semi-massive sulfide bodies along the side margins of the chonoliths.

The massive sulfides, which comprise dominantly pyrrhotite, with trace-to-15% pentlandite, account for the majority of the Mineral Resource estimates.

Please refer to the Figures in the Press Release as attached or on our website at Lifezone Metals – News – Press Releases 

Figure 9 Plan View Schematic of Geology of the Kabanga Area

Exploration/Drilling/History Overview

Exploration at Kabanga has been undertaken in several different phases spanning over 45 years, with more than 621 km of drilling having been completed in total over that time (see Table 2), less than 5% of which was on regional targets. The North and Tembo mineralised zones are the most densely drilled of all the mineralised zones identified to date.

The first drilling programme was undertaken by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) between 1976 and 1979. Following a ten-year moratorium on foreign company exploration, Sutton Resources (Sutton) entered into several different joint ventures (JV) to explore between 1988–1999, after which Barrick Gold took over control of the project through the purchase of Sutton and progressed through several more drilling programmes independently and within JVs with Glencore. Several studies were completed from 2003 onwards, including scoping and prefeasibility studies, followed by an unpublished draft feasibility study undertaken by the Glencore–Barrick Gold JV in 2014. By the end of 2014, approximately 586 km of diamond drilling had been completed.

In 2019, Kabanga Nickel Ltd (KNL) acquired the project. KNL is jointly owned by LHL (83%) through its 100% entity, Lifezone Limited, with the remaining 17% directly owned by BHP Billiton (UK) DDS Limited (BHPB). KNL owns 84% of the project, with the remaining 16% held by the Government of Tanzania under the terms of a framework agreement.

Since December 2021, KNL has completed 82 holes for more than 35 km of diamond core drilling at Tembo, North, and Safari (up to 18 August 2023) (see Table 2).

Table 2 Holes Completed Since Project First Discovered (to 18 August 2023)

Years Company/Companies Metres Drilled Discovery (purpose)
1976–1979 UNDP Regional Exploration 20,068 Main
1991–1992 Sutton Resources 12,974 Main
1993–1995 Sutton–BHP JV 37,947 North
1997–1999 Sutton–Anglo American JV 56,227 North
2000–2004 Barrick Gold Corporation 39,931 MNB
2005–2008 Glencore–Barrick Gold JV 64,957
81,256
242,347		 North Deep (Scoping Study 1)
Tembo (Scoping Study 2)
Safari / Kima (PFS)
2008–2009
2011–2012
2014		 Glencore–Barrick Gold JV 21,368
5,303
3,320		 North (draft FS)
Regional
Regional and Tembo North
2021–18/8/23 KNL 23,748
768
4,116
4,416
2,312		 Tembo (infill and extension)
Safari (extension)
North (infill)
Tembo and North (metallurgical)
Tembo and North (geotechnical)
Total 621,058

All field work since December 2021 has been conducted on Special Mining Licence ‘SML 651 / 2021’ (see Figure 10 and Figure 11).

Permitting Overview

In Tanzania, minerals and natural resources are state owned and the rights to explore and mine minerals and to use natural resources are obtained from regulatory bodies defined in legislation that have a defined duration and are conditioned.

Mineral rights are held in the form of prospecting licences and mining licences. There are several types of prospecting licences and mining licences, depending on the nature of the minerals being mined and the size of the mine. A Special Mining Licence (SML) is the type of licence required for large scale mining operations (‘large scale’ being defined as those requiring a capital investment not less than US$100 million), and so this is the type of licence required for Kabanga.

Please refer to the Figures in the Press Release as attached or on our website at Lifezone Metals – News – Press Releases 

Figure 10 Location of the Project showing Tenements

Figure 11 Location of the Project showing Detail of SML 651 / 2021

Mineral Resources Overview

Ordinary kriged resource estimates were completed in 2008 as part of the Glencore–Barrick Gold JV prefeasibility study. A thorough independent technical audit of the database, QA/QC, and the resource estimates was completed in 2009. The final resource estimate updates were completed in 2010 following an infill drilling campaign. The 2010 estimates form the basis of the Glencore–Barrick Gold JV 2014 draft feasibility study (unpublished).

Check models were completed by KNL for North and Tembo in 2021 using the same drillhole database as the 2010 estimates with a different interpretation and modelling approach. The 2010 and 2021 models were validated and compared visually and statistically for all grade elements estimated and for density.

In March 2023, the current Mineral Resource estimates (see Table 3) were published in a Technical Report Summary under US SEC Regulation S‑K subpart 1300 rules for Property Disclosures for Mining Registrants (S‑K 1300) (effective date 15 February 2023). This is the first time the Kabanga Mineral Resource estimates have been reported under S‑K 1300 guidelines.

As the Kabanga North and Tembo zones contain multi element mineralisation, a nickel equivalent (NiEq) formula updated for current metal prices, costs and other modifying factors has been used for reporting from the Mineral Resource.

The 2023 nickel equivalent (NiEq23) formula is as follows:

NiEq23 (%) = Ni% + Cu% x 0.411 + Co% x 2.765

The 2023 NiEq cut‑off grade is 0.58% NiEq.

Metal price assumptions used for cut‑off grade determination were $9.50/lb for nickel, $4.00/lb for copper, and $26.00/lb for cobalt.

The Initial Assessment assumes an underground mining rate of 2.2 Mtpa. The mining method is underground stoping with backfill, and the extracted mineralised material will feed into an on‑site concentrator. Concentrate is assumed to be transported to an off‑site hydrometallurgical processing facility to produce final nickel, copper, and cobalt metal, with transport of the final metal to Dar es Salaam and export to markets for sale.

A cash flow analysis was not performed for the Project. The Initial Assessment has been prepared to demonstrate reasonable prospects of economic extraction, not the economic viability of the Mineral Resource estimates. The Initial Assessment is preliminary in nature, it includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have modifying factors applied to them that would enable them to be categorised as Mineral Reserves, and there is no certainty that this economic assessment will be realised.

Table 3   Kabanga Mineral Resource Estimates as at 15 February 2023
Based on Metal Prices: $9.50/lb Nickel, $4.00/lb Copper, and $26.00/lb Cobalt

Mineral Resource Classification LHL Tonnage (Mt) Grades Recovery
NiEq23
(%)		 Ni
(%)		 Cu
(%)		 Co
(%)		 Nickel
(%)		 Copper
(%)		 Cobalt
(%)
MAIN
Measured – – – – – – – –
Indicated 2.14 2.44 1.92 0.28 0.15 87.2 85.1 88.1
Measured+Indicated 2.14 2.44 1.92 0.28 0.15 87.2 85.1 88.1
Inferred – – – – – – – –
MNB
Measured – – – – – – – –
Indicated – – – – – – – –
Measured+Indicated – – – – – – – –
Inferred 0.51 1.98 1.52 0.20 0.13  87.2  85.1  88.1
NORTH
Measured 4.7 3.37 2.64 0.35 0.21  87.2  85.1  88.1
Indicated 11.9 3.80 3.05 0.41 0.21  87.2  85.1  88.1
Measured+Indicated  16.6  3.68  2.93  0.39  0.21  87.2  85.1  88.1
Inferred 12.0 3.29 2.64 0.35 0.18  87.2  85.1  88.1
TEMBO
Measured 4.9 3.03 2.34 0.32 0.20  87.2  85.1  88.1
Indicated 2.2 2.20 1.69 0.22 0.15  87.2  85.1  88.1
Measured+Indicated  7.1  2.77  2.14  0.29 0.19  87.2  85.1  88.1
Inferred 2.1 3.05 2.41 0.31 0.18  87.2  85.1  88.1
OVERALL MINERAL RESOURCE
Measured 9.6 3.20 2.49 0.34 0.21  87.2  85.1  88.1
Indicated 16.3 3.40 2.71 0.36 0.19  87.2  85.1  88.1
Measured+Indicated  25.8  3.33  2.63  0.35  0.20  87.2  85.1  88.1
Inferred 14.6 3.21 2.57 0.34 0.18  87.2  85.1  88.1
  1. Mineral Resources are reported exclusive of Mineral Reserves. There are no Mineral Reserves to report.
  2. Mineral Resources are reported showing only the LHL attributable tonnage portion, which is 69.713% of the total.
  3. Cut‑off uses the NiEq23 using a nickel price of $9.50/lb, copper price of $4.00/lb, and cobalt price of $26.00/lb with allowances for recoveries, payability, deductions, transport, and royalties.
    NiEq23% = Ni% + Cu% x 0. 411 + Co% x 2.765.
  4. The point of reference for Mineral Resources is the point of feed into a processing facility.
  5. All Mineral Resources in the 2023MRE were assessed for reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction by reporting only material above a cut‑off grade of 0.58% NiEq23.
  6. Totals may vary due to rounding.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made herein are not historical facts but may be considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and the “safe harbor” provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook” or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology or expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding future events, the business combination between GoGreen Investments Corporation (“GoGreen”) and Lifezone Holdings Limited (“LHL”) that formed Lifezone Metals, the estimated or anticipated future results of Lifezone Metals, future opportunities for Lifezone Metals, including the efficacy of Lifezone Metals’ hydromet technology (“Hydromet Technology”) and the development of, and processing of mineral resources at, the Kabanga Project, and other statements that are not historical facts.

These statements are based on the current expectations of Lifezone Metals’ management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on, by any investor as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of Lifezone Metals. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties regarding Lifezone Metals’ business, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: general economic, political and business conditions, including but not limited to the economic and operational disruptions and other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the Lifezone Metals in connection with the business combination; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the business combination, including difficulty in integrating the businesses of LHL and GoGreen; the risks related to the rollout of Lifezone Metals’ business, the efficacy of the Hydromet Technology, and the timing of expected business milestones; Lifezone Metals’ development of, and processing of mineral resources at, the Kabanga Project; the effects of competition on Lifezone Metals’ business; the ability of Lifezone Metals to execute its growth strategy, manage growth profitably and retain its key employees; the ability of Lifezone Metals to maintain the listing of its securities on a U.S. national securities exchange; costs related to the business combination; and other risks that will be detailed from time to time in filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. There may be additional risks that Lifezone Metals presently does not know or that Lifezone Metals currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide Lifezone Metals’ expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this release. Lifezone Metals anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Lifezone Metals’ assessments to change. However, while Lifezone Metals may elect to update these forward-looking statements in the future, Lifezone Metals specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Lifezone Metals’ assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. Nothing herein should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that any of the contemplated results in such forward-looking statements will be achieved.  You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements herein, which speak only as of the date they are made and are qualified in their entirety by reference to the cautionary statements herein.

Certain statements made herein include references to “clean” or “green” metals, methods of production of such metals, energy or the future in general. Such references relate to environmental benefits such as lower green-house gas (“GHG”) emissions and energy consumption involved in the production of metals using the Hydromet Technology relative to the use of traditional methods of production and the use of metals such as nickel in the batteries used in electric vehicles. While studies by third parties (commissioned by Lifezone Metals) have shown that the Hydromet Technology, under certain conditions, results in lower GHG emissions and lower consumption of electricity compared to smelting with respect to refining platinum group metals, no active refinery currently licenses Lifezone Metals’ Hydromet Technology. Accordingly, Lifezone Metals’ Hydromet Technology and the resultant metals may not achieve the environmental benefits to the extent Lifezone Metals expects or at all. Any overstatement of the environmental benefits in this regard may have adverse implications for Lifezone Metals and its stakeholders.

[1] NiEq23 = Ni% + (Cu% * 0.411) + (Co% * 2.765)

Attachment

Natasha Liddell
Chief Sustainability & Communications Officer, Lifezone Metals
info@lifezonemetals.com

Ingo Hofmair
Chief Financial Officer, Lifezone Metals
ingo.hofmaier@lifezonemetals.com

ICR, Inc.
Investor Relations, ICR, Inc.
+1 (646) 200 8879
LifezoneMetalsIR@icrinc.com

Bronwyn Wallace
US Media Enquiries, H+K Strategies
+1 (713) 724 3627
Bronwyn.Wallace@hkstrategies.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8914329

Sweegen’s Rebaudioside M sweetener technology receives regulatory approval in Taiwan

Foothill Ranch, Calif., Aug. 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global sweetness and flavor innovator Sweegen has announced that its Bestevia® Rebaudiosides M (Reb M), D, and E have received full authorization from the Taiwan FDA for use in food and beverages. This recent regulatory approval marks another milestone in Sweegen successfully opening new markets in countries where brands seek new generation stevia ingredients to expand their sugar reduction solutions.

Reb M, a high-purity steviol glycoside derived from the stevia plant, is renowned for its clean and sugar-like taste profile. The best-tasting part of the stevia leaf, such as Reb M is found in trace quantities of the leaf’s composition.

For food and beverage producers, Sweegen’s Reb M technology offers several commercially significant advantages. Sweegen’s Signature Stevia starts with stevia, not GMO corn or sugar beets. The ingredient innovator leverages proprietary bioconversion technology to produce a range of zero-calorie sweeteners with assured quality, regulatory compliance, and competitive prices. These products generate a lower carbon footprint.

As Sweegen continues to excel in commercialization and secures essential regulatory approvals in key markets like the EMEA and the U.K., the company witnesses substantial sales growth throughout 2023.

In addition to those critical regulatory approvals, Sweegen now offers its food and beverage manufacturing customers the right to use its Reb M in all non-alcoholic beverages anywhere in the world without infringing the relevant application patents. Customers already use Sweegen’s Reb M in other applications.

“At Sweegen, our focus revolves around safety, quality, and adherence to regulatory standards,” said Vice President of Technical and Regulatory Affairs, Hadi Omrani. “We are expanding our global footprint by opening new markets to create access to innovative sweetener technologies.”

With increased interest from the global CPG companies and their desire for guaranteed capacity and supply chain redundancy, Sweegen has been working to establish and expand production facilities in major markets, including EMEA, North America, and APAC.

“The approval of Bestevia Reb M in Taiwan represents a breakthrough for brands aiming to create better-for-you foods and beverages,” said Vice President of Global Innovation, Casey McCormick. “Bestevia Reb M opens innovative avenues for reducing and even eliminating sugar, surpassing consumer expectations and contributing to public health goals aimed at curtailing sugar intake.”

Sweegen has recently achieved FEMA GRAS status for its sweet proteins, brazzein and thaumatin II, which serve as valuable complements to steviol glycosides in the realm of food and beverage production. This addition reinforces Sweegen’s commitment to broadening its portfolio of innovative taste-modulating flavors. These sweet proteins are pivotal in assisting food and beverage manufacturers in meeting the rising demand for better-for-you products, aligning seamlessly with consumers’ holistic wellness preferences. The brazzein technology takes center stage in Sweegen’s newly launched Sweetensify™ flavor technology for taste modulation. It is an ideal tool for brands aiming to replicate sugar-like tastes in their food and beverage offerings.

Sweegen is dedicated to revolutionizing the sweetener market with innovative solutions that promote healthier choices without compromising taste. The full authorization of Bestevia Reb M in Taiwan reinforces Sweegen’s leadership in the nature-based sweetener space and positions the company as a trusted partner for food and beverage manufacturers worldwide.Top of FormBottom of Form

About Sweegen

Sweegen provides sweet-taste solutions for food and beverage manufacturers around the world.

The company aims to reduce sugar and artificial sweeteners in the global diet. Partnering with customers, Sweegen creates delicious zero-sugar products that consumers love. With the best modern sweeteners in its portfolio, such as Bestevia® Rebs B, D, E, I, M, and N, and sweet proteins brazzein and thaumatin, along with its deep knowledge of flavor modulators and texturants, Sweegen delivers market-leading solutions that customers want, and consumers prefer. Well. Into the Future.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1996. Sweegen’s actual results may differ from the estimates, assumptions, and other illustrative material contained herein, and consequently, a reader should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, illustrative information regarding Sweegen’s bottom-up assumed market potential, assumed hit rate, and the resulting revenue based on these model inputs. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results.

Industry, Market, and Other Data

In this press release, we rely on and refer to information and statistics regarding market participants in the sectors in which Sweegen competes and other data. We obtained this information and statistics from our own internal estimates and third-party sources, including reports by market research firms and company filings. We do not expressly refer to these sources. All of this information involves a number of assumptions and limitations, and the sources of such information cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information. The industry in which Sweegen operates is subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of important factors, any of which could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the estimates made by Sweegen or third parties.

Further Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, among other statements, statements regarding the future prospects for Reb M stevia leaf sweetener, brazzein, and thaumatin. These statements are based on current expectations but are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and beyond Sweegen’s control.

Relevant risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements and, therefore, should be carefully considered. Sweegen assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information or future events or developments.

Attachments

Ana Capretz, Head of Public Relations and Communications
Sweegen
949-709-0583
ana.capretz@sweegen.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8914192

Philanthropist supports Bishop Herman Basic school at Keta

Madam Odelia Tsukplornu Gamor, a philanthropist in the Keta Municipality of the Volta region has presented a laptop computer and a projector to the Bishop Herman Basic school in the Municipality.

The move was to improve and promote the learning of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the school.

Madam Gamor, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said the gesture was to equip teachers for effective teaching and learning.

‘I visited the school some months ago, and l noticed that learning of ICT here was not encouraging,’ she said.

She stated that the projector would enable teachers to project and display clearer pictures of what they would be teaching.

She noted that her outfit would seek more assistance from other Non-Governmental Organisations and individuals to support schools in the Municipality.

Madam Christine Tsikplornu, the headteacher of the school, who received the items on behalf of management of the school, expressed appreciation to the donors for the kind gesture.

She pledged to put the items to proper use for the purposes of which they were donated.

She outlined other school challenges including lack of teaching and learning materials, inadequate furniture, and others.

‘The school needs fence wall to protect the lives of children and school property.’

Madam Tsikplornu also appealed to government, philanthropists, individuals, and others to help solve the remaining challenges facing the school.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Natives from Western North urged to speak local dialects in public

Mr Tony Tsina Addai, President of Western North Development Association (WENDA), a Non-Governmental organization (NGO) has urged natives of Western North Region especially parents to imbibe the culture of speaking their local dialects in public in their children to preserve them for future generations.

He said language formed part of every society’s cultural heritage, thus, teaching children during their early development stages how to speak the local dialects could help develop a sense of inclusion in them as they grew up.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview, he expressed worry over the emerging trend where parents from the Region preferred to introduce other languages to their children but paid less attention to the local ones like sehwi, anyi and brossa which formed part of their origin and culture.

Mr Addai feared that if parents, traditional authorities, and opinion leaders from the area did not put in place measures to avert the growing trend, the local languages could be forgotten with time.

‘It is worrying to see a native from the Western North Region that has decided not to speak our local dialects to their children and do not allow them to speak as well,’ he noted.

He encouraged natives to speak these languages in public to identify who they were.

‘I firmly believe that, if we speak sehwi, ayin, and brossa in public gatherings, we will help to maintain them and pass on to generations so that these languages will not fade out like other languages,’ he added.

Mr Addai quizzed: ‘If we do not speak and learn our own languages, who do we expect to promote them for us?’

He indicated that WENDA as a group had started advocating to religious institutions to translate the scriptures into the local languages.

He further revealed that they had started a sensitization campaign on radio stations to educate the people in the area on the need to speak the local languages to help build an inclusive society for development.

Source: Ghana News Agency

KATH management sanctions 16 staff members for flouting the hospital’s disciplinary code

The management of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi, has from January to June 2023, sanctioned 16 members of staff as part of efforts to improve discipline at the hospital.

The sanctions, which included dismissals, warnings and suspensions without pay, were for various infractions of the disciplinary codes of the hospital.

Professor Otchere Addai-Mensah, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the hospital, who made this known, said management was working to instil discipline in the members of staff to ensure better patient care practices at the second largest referral facility in the country.

Management has also intensified supervision of staff and clinical services with the maintenance of physical presence at all the operational areas.

Prof. Addai-Mensah was speaking at the opening of the mid-year performance review meeting of the hospital in Kumasi.

The meeting was on the theme ‘Driving A Customer – Centric Agenda for Health Care Delivery: The Role of the KATH Management, Staff and Stakeholders’.

Prof Addai-Mensah, however, indicated that, ensuring discipline among staff alone was not enough to ensure quality healthcare delivery.

Therefore, management had taken a few steps to enhance staff motivation packages to encourage them to give out their best.

He said allowances had been increased, medical packages for staff and families had also been increased by 25 per cent.

Additionally, outstanding promotions had been cleared and 13-months allowances owed members of the health services workers union had been paid.

The CEO said it was expected that these sets of motivations and others, would encourage staff members to go extra mile to meet patients’ expectations for quality clinical services at the hospital.

Prof Addai-Mensah, noted that, a cursory look around the hospital clearly showed remarkable improvements in its infrastructure and work environment.

He said priority attention was being given to the Asantehene – led initiative of raising 10,000.00 United States dollars for the comprehensive renovation of the old ‘GEE’ blocks, which served as the main in-patient facilities of the hospitals.

As part of the hospital’s beautification exercise, the doctors’ flats, laundry, breast care unit, finance, human resource blocks and the family welfare directorate had all received a major face-lift.

He said the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Centre, Patients relatives’ hostel, the Dialysis Centre and others, would also receive massive renovation by the close of the year.

Prof. Addai Mensah said the hospital performed well by recording 133,267 out – patients (OPD) cases as against a target of 123,971, representing a positive variance of 7.50.

He said that primary care OPD cases also went up to 31,378 which was 14 per cent above the set target of 27,500 cases.

Surgical Operations for the period were 10.375, that was 27 per cent above the set target of 8,100, and the target for radio therapy services, laboratory deliveries, emergency admissions and others were all met.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Enzee Group partner Edify to organise 6th Annual Education Technology Conference

Enzee Group, an events management company, has formed a partnership with Edify to curate an immersive experience at the 6th Annual Education Technology Conference.

The Conference, which has become an annual staple, draws educators, school proprietors, and institutions associated with Edify partner schools to delve into the latest trends in educational technology.

A statement issued in Accra by Mr Samuel Gador, the Events Lead of Enzee Group, said this year’s Conference was on the theme: ‘The Future of Learning: Harnessing the Potential of E-Learning.’

It said the event sought to catalyze a transformative shift in how technology enriches the learning journey.

The statement said at its core, the Education Technology Conference aimed to underscore the importance of integrating technology into the teaching and learning process.

It said the Conference would provide attendees with the tools they needed to create an engaging and innovative learning environment and serves as a forum for discussing current trends and strategies in educational technology, promoting collaboration and idea exchange among educators.

The statement said 300 young minds were equipped with the tools needed to navigate the digital age, reflecting the Conference’s dedication to nurturing the potential of youth.

‘The event is not merely a forum for discourse but a dynamic convergence of thought-provoking dialogues and hands-on experiences,’ it said.

It said Enzee Group’s dedication to meaningful events, meticulous planning, and flawless execution brought finesse to the conference, ensuring seamless activities.

The statement said This effort emphasized the idea that technology is a transformative catalyst, not just an educational supplement.

‘Edify’s partnership echoed this sentiment, as both entities shared a vision of harnessing technology to empower educators and students alike,’ it said.

The Conference’s appeal lay in its holistic approach, encouraging exploration of technology’s potential to enhance creativity, curiosity, and innovation in education.

The event agenda featured a diverse range of topics, from innovative teaching techniques to technological integration in project-based learning. Keynote speakers and education pioneers led engaging sessions that ignited conversations and inspired attendees.

The statement said beyond these enlightening discussions, the event provided a valuable networking opportunity, uniting educators with a shared vision for reshaping the educational landscape.

It said Enzee Group’s event management prowess and Edify’s commitment to educational transformation shone brightly.

This partnership demonstrated that impactful events aren’t just about logistics; they’re about translating passion into purpose and ideas into tangible actions.

The statement said through this partnership, a new path forward emerged, the one that champions technology’s pivotal role in shaping education and paving the way for a brighter future of enriched minds and revolutionary learning experiences.

Mr Gador said, ‘Our goal at Enzee was to create a conference that transcended the ordinary, one that resonated with educators and education enthusiasts alike.’

He said the culmination of this event was a testament to the power of collaboration in shaping meaningful experiences.

‘We believe that when minds come together with a shared purpose, remarkable transformations can occur,’ he said.

Mr Gador expressed gratitude to the dedicated team at Enzee Group and the visionary partnership with Edify.

‘This achievement is a collective effort and a reflection of the dedication and passion our team poured into every detail. The synergy with Edify was instrumental in infusing this Conference with innovation and purpose. Together, we have ignited a spark of inspiration that will continue to guide the evolution of education through technology,’ he added.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Educationist urges GES to prioritise French language in schools

Mr Mawuli Joel Degue, a French scholar and an author at Keta in the Volta Region has urged the Ghana Education Service (GES) to prioritise the teaching of French language in all levels of education in the country.

‘French language must be the topmost priority in our schools since it is the fifth most widely spoken language in the world.’

Mr Degue, who is also a certified and licensed private tour guide, told the Ghana News Agency that over 3,000 million people spoke French on the five continents in the world and the second most widely learned foreign language after English.

He mentioned that French was the only language alongside English that was taught in every country in the world and Ghana must not be left out.

‘French should be a compulsory subject that must be taught in all levels of education from primary up to the tertiary stage since all our neighboring countries remained French speaking countries,’ he said.

Mr Degue explained that prioritising French language in schools would promote international relationship as well as transaction of businesses.

He noted that French created opportunities to study at renowned French Universities and Business Schools which were ranked among the top highest education institutions in Europe and beyond.

‘Learning French is the pleasure of learning a beautiful, rich, melodious language that is often called the language of love,’ he said.

Mr Degue also explained that French was a language that structured thought and developed critical thinking which was a valuable skill for discussions and negotiations.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Lagdo dam and challenge of flood risk management in Nigeria

The Republic of Cameroon, in a recent letter to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs signified intension to open flood gates of Lagdo dam.

To riverine areas within the River Benue catchment area, temporarily vacating their homes and relocating to higher grounds in the coming days or weeks can be the wisest decision now given the nightmare release of water from the dam has caused them in the past; 2022 episode was the worst in reent years.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant agencies have also advised the residents to take actions to stay safe and protect their property and farms.

Data from NEMA shows that the 2022 floods arising from the release of water from the dam displaced no fewer than 1.4 million people, killed over 603 people, and injured more than 2,400 others.

It also damaged 82,035 houses and 332,327 hectares of land were affected.

Nigeria’s immediate past minister of humanitarian affairs, Sadiya Farouq, blamed the scale of the disaster on the failure by branches of government to take action.

“There was enough warning and information about the 2022 flood, but states, local governments and communities appear not to take heed,” the minister wrote on Twitter in apparent exoneration of Federal Government.

Yearly, neighbouring Cameroon, which runs along Nigeria’s eastern border releases water from Lagdo dam in the north. This usually causes flooding downstream in Nigeria.

At the time of the dam’s construction in the 1980s the two countries agreed that a twin dam would be built on the Nigerian side to contain the overflow, but that was never realised.

So, to cushion the effect of possible flooding from the Lagdo dam in Cameroon, the Nigerian government agreed to build a shock-absorber dam tagged Dasin Hausa Dam in Adamawa State.

The effect of the release of water from this dam is largely felt on surrounding regions in about 13 states in Nigeria, including Kogi, Benue, Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe.

Others include Niger, Nasarawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Cross River, Rivers, and Bayelsa States.

The Dasin Hausa dam was supposed to be two and a half the size of the Lagdo dam, which was built to supply electricity to the northern part of Cameroon and allow the irrigation of 15,000 hectares of crops downstream.

Like the Lagdo dam, the dam project sited at the Dasin Village of Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State was supposed to generate 300 megawatts of electricity and irrigate about 150,000 hectares of land in Adamawa, Taraba, and Benue states.

But sadly, since 1982, the Nigerian government has yet to complete the building of the Dasin Hausa dam.

As a result, anytime the Cameroonian government releases excess water from the Lagdo dam, communities in Kogi, Benue, and north-eastern states get flooded.

To halt the yearly flooding, the Senate had urged the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation to revisit the proposed construction of Dasin Hausa Dam and any other dam to take in the flood waters from Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.

Furthermore, the ministry’s compendium which highlighted the status of the water resources sector revealed that the pre-2015 landscape was one dotted with multitudes of abandoned and uncompleted projects.

It showed that 116 Water Supply, Dams, Hydropower, and Irrigation projects were inherited, several uncompleted or abandoned, some of which construction started since the 1980s.

On infrastructure development, there are over 400 Dams in Nigeria located in various parts of the country, with capacity to provide 11.2 billion cubic metres (BCM) of water for irrigation, 900MCM for water supply and 18BCM for hydropower generation.

Unfortunately the Dasin Hausa dam does not seem to be a priority the parent ministry contrary to calls from stakeholders.

A look at the 2023 appropriation for the ministry revealed that the study and design of the Dasin Hausa dam was listed as ERGP28110523.

When contacted, the Director, Dams and Reservoir in the ministry declined comment on the status of the dam project, saying all questions should be directed to the Minister.

As the rains intensify, Mr Akugbe Iyamu the President, Environment Protection and Climate Change Experts urges Nigerian government and its sub-nationals to put in place contingency plans to forestall possible flooding.

Iyamu said a contingency plan would help stakeholders prepare and respond effectively and manage flood risks, including displacements, and food security.

According to him, water from the dam may contribute to flooding of more than 40 per cent to Nigeria land, and called on states in the downstream areas to take actions to prevent flood disaster.

Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, also called on the states to put measures in place to prevent flood emergencies.

Utsev said the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had observed an increase in the volume of flow along the River Benue system, registering a flow level of 8.97 meters today.

This, he said, was insignificant, as compared to a flow level of 8.80 meters on the same date in 2022.

Similarly, NIHSA Director-General, Mr Clement Nze, says the agency would continue to monitor water levels in rivers across the country to forestall possible flood emergencies.

“We maintain close watch on all of the rivers, and we are getting into the peak of the rainy season, there are many rivers within the Benue tributaries that could cause flooding whether Cameroon releases water into Nigeria or not.

“Most of those rivers are not dammed, apart from Katsina-Ala river where we have Kashimbilla dam, it contributes to 26 per cent of River Benue.

“ If the rainfall intensifies more and which we are monitoring, there could be flooding from that axis,” he said.

The director-general said states should complement Federal Government’s efforts by sensitising their populace on flood disaster prevention, saying FG cannot do it alone.

“States should follow the Federal Government to sensitise their people, they already know the flashpoints.

“The state emergency management agencies know the locations, when they need to relocate people they should do so on time.

“Flood issues occur in the communities and the states should take responsibility, they should take more action, sensitise and relocate their people to safer grounds.

“They should augment the relief materials that NEMA is providing so as to give succour to the people, they should be on standby in all those flood flashpoints”, he advised.

Nze recalled that after the 2012 flood incidents, the FG constituted the Presidential Committee for Flood Relief and Rehabilitation (PCFRR) to raise funds and provide succour to flood victims.

He said many states have functional flood hostels, adding that they were duty bound to support the committee’s effort to cushion the immediate effects of flooding and recovery of affected persons.

According to him, the committee, co-chaired by Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Dr Olisa Agbakoba SAN, had monies dominated from individuals, corporate entities to the tune of N12 billion.

He said the committee had been urging the states to take over these facilities for the people, and not only for flood emergencies.

Experts believe priority should be given to flood prevention, response and management.

They say flooding has had a major impact on lives, the country’s agriculture, social, economic and infrastructure, and environmental targets. No effort should be spared in addressing the challenge it poses.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Shettima harps on value of traditional institution

The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has reiterated the value of the traditional institutions in the country.

Shettima made the statement when he received a delegation led by the Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, retired Justice Sidi Bage I, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Wednesday.

He expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers, the government and people of the state for their love and support to President Bola Tinubu during the last electioneering campaign.

” You are the custodians of our rich cultural heritage, the people listen to you more than us because you are the closest to the people. We appreciate you and value you because you are our link to the past.”

” If we productively utilise our solid minerals, Nasarawa can be to the North what Lagos is to the South-West and can be the engine room in this region because of its proximity to the FCT; opportunities abound more in Nasarawa State,” he said.

He urged the people of the state to be peaceful in order to develop, adding that Nasarawa is home to all the solid minerals in the country.

In an interview with newsmen, Bage, said the aim of the visit was to reiterate the support of the people of Nasarawa to President Tinubu’s administration.

” We are here today on a courtesy visit to the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, by extension, we are here on a courtesy visit to this administration.

” This administration is our friend. It’s a friend of Nasarawa, it’s a friend of our people and added to it both Mr President and the Vice President all of them are our own.

” They know how close they are to Nassarawa State and since the assumption of office, we’ve not had the opportunity of coming around physically to and congratulate them that’s why we’re here today.

” It’s not very easy to see Mr President at his desk, but it could be slightly easier to see the Vice President at his desk.

” That’s why we booked the appointment first, to see the vice president at his desk, congratulate him and give him all our assurances that our people are with this administration.

” Our loyalty, our support to this administration is 100 per cent and we are there in support of all their aspirations, all the good things that they have laid out for this country.

Vice President Kashim Shettima in a warm handshake with the Emir of Keffi, Dr Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The traditional ruler expressed confidence in the ability and capacity of Tinubu’s administration to move the country to the desired level.

” They are people that we know and we know very well and people that we can give a trust to. We are sure that tomorrow will be better than today with the two at the helms of affairs in this country.

” What we are saying is that Mr President has started and we are confident that he has started right. The policies and all of those things that are laid out for this country are the best that should happen at this time.

” So we are here to tell Mr President to please carry on with the good work that he is doing for this country . Nasarawa State is with you. We are behind you.

” We give you all the support that is necessary for you to succeed in what you have laid out to do for this country. Thank you.

Among the delegation were the Emir of Keffi, Dr Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, Emir of Awe, Alhaji Isa Abubakar, Emir of Nasarawa, Alhaji Usman Jibrin, the Andoma of Doma, Alhaji Ahmadu Ogah, the Chun Mada, Chief Samson Gamu Yare II, among others.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria