Christian Li Named New Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana – International Edition (English)

Accra, April 1 – Christian Li has been named as the new Managing Director at Vivo Energy Ghana, which handles Shell-branded fuel and lubricant products.

Following the departure of ex-Managing Director, Jean-Michel Arlandis, this has occurred.

Christian, who hails from Mauritius, boasts close to three decades of expertise in general management, business expansion, and sales and marketing across over 20 African nations.

Starting from 2022, he has taken up the position of Head of International Business at Engen. In this role, he oversees and supports Engen’s activities outside South Africa, which encompass operations in various countries such as DRC, Namibia, Botswana, Mauritius, Lesotho, and Eswatini.

Before this, he spent four years as the Managing Director of Engen Namibia, during which he was consistently ranked among the top 10 executives for three consecutive years.

Christian has also previously taken on various leadership positions in South Africa, Mauritius, and the Republic of Congo.

He was associated with Chevron for approximately eight years prior to moving to Engen Mauritius in 2011.

When announcing his appointment, Franck Konan-Yahaut, the Executive Vice President for West and Central Africa at Vivo Energy, showed faith in Christian, stating: “With his extensive expertise, dedication to achieving outstanding results, and drive for ongoing enhancement, Christian will be a highly valuable asset to our team.”

Thankful for his nomination, Christian committed to collaborating with the team and various stakeholders such as industry leaders to foster innovation and achieve excellence within the downstream sector.

“Given my experience spanning several industries, I’m confident that we can raise our already strong business to unparalleled levels,” states Christian.

GNA

GRB

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Monrovia’s Innovative Pilot: Turning Trash into Treasure

To address Monrovia’s pressing waste problem, officials have initiated a groundbreaking pilot program designed to convert garbage into a useful asset and encourage eco-friendly urban development.

The program dubbed the Solid Waste Management Transformative Pilot Project commenced operations at the Jorkpen Town Market composting facility. This joint venture involves the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC), and various community members, supported financially by the Canadian government via Novasphere. Organizations such as the Liberia Marketing Association (LMA) along with Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs) and neighborhood groups are contributing significantly to executing this endeavor.

In Monrovia, approximately 800 tons of solid waste are produced daily, with less than half being adequately collected. As a result, uncollected garbage blocks drainage systems, contaminates water bodies, and poses risks to public health. Vermon Sangah Lloyd, who leads the project, states that this effort marks a significant departure from previous approaches.

“Managing waste isn’t all this initiative covers; it’s also about reshaping our perspective and approach towards it,” stated Lloyd. “Our aim is to build a world where waste ceases to be an obstacle and becomes a cornerstone of both ecological and financial advancement.”

A preliminary investigation carried out in four key markets in Monrovia—namely Old Road, Fiamah, Rally Town, and West Point—found that these areas generate approximately 89.3 kilograms of organic refuse per day on average. This waste predominantly comprises items like leaves, fruit, and veggies, highlighting the feasibility of using composting as an effective, environmentally conscious approach.

The pilot initiative aims to pinpoint steady streams of organic refuse from city marketplaces, set up communal composting facilities, and educate national and local “waste leaders” to drive transformation aligned with Liberia’s commitments to tackling climate issues. Currently, four Community-Based Enterprises have received certification to gather and move waste to the Jorkpen Town Market compost location, turning it into reusable compost.

To facilitate efficient collaboration and supervision, a Solid Waste Coordination Committee has been established, led by the EPA with the MCC as co-chair. Participants have gained valuable insights through an educational trip to Tanzania, where they were trained in practical methods of composting and sustainable waste handling practices. Mapping activities within communities have assisted in identifying crucial collection sites to enhance operational efficiency and amplify overall effectiveness.

During the unveiling, Lloyd emphasized that the initiative extends beyond mere construction—it aims to catalyze a cultural and ecological transformation. He stated, “This composting hub signifies much more than an installation; it heralds the start of a revolution.” According to him, by decreasing methane output, revitalizing markets, and generating eco-friendly employment opportunities, they aim to establish a model for the nation to follow.

President Ma Elizabeth Sambola of LMA supported this view, encouraging significant local involvement in the project. She stated, “This endeavor restores control to the citizens.” Adding, “As market women, we should spearhead this effort—while involving young people as well. It’s an occasion for us to create a more sanitary and healthy environment in Monrovia.”

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Mwananchi Credit Overhauls Operations to Tackle Non-Performing Loan Crisis


An increase in bad debts has led Mwananchi Credit, an immediate lender, to revise its operations by discontinuing Checkoff loan distributions.

According to a memo obtained by The Star, the decision was made following several discussions, starting with a meeting on February 25th.

Nevertheless, the firm has swiftly refuted allegations that it has dismissed employees from its check-off loan division, maintaining that it is merely optimizing processes to enhance customer service.


The human resources manager at Mwananchi Credit, Collins Okello, stated that everyone who was employed in the department has been requested to resubmit their applications for their positions. Job interviews are scheduled to begin on Tuesday.


“Even with extensive efforts to improve the portfolio and tighten financial responsibility, the product has kept falling short. Multiple team leaders have failed to reach their set goals, leading to considerable monetary losses,” stated Okello.


The restructuring comes after a series of high-level discussions, during which key concerns about loan collections, non-performing loans, and commission structures were raised.


Even with attempts to boost financial responsibility and increase revenue collection, the checkoff loan item kept performing poorly, leading to significant monetary losses for the business.


The firm has recognized the efforts of staff members from the checkoff loan division and has guaranteed their continued support throughout this transitional phase.


This choice underscores an increasing issue across the finance industry, with non-performing loans and ineffective collection methods compelling firms to reassess their lending policies.


This action might indicate a larger trend within the sector, where additional companies could follow to reduce financial hazards and boost earnings.


As part of ongoing restructuring initiatives, Mwananchi must now focus on relocating impacted staff members while also guaranteeing adherence to fiscal responsibility standards.


This choice will probably influence the firm’s upcoming fiscal approach as it aims to reinforce its corporate structure.


The company is most recognized for its logbook loans, enabling vehicle owners to utilize their logbooks as security in order to obtain rapid funding.


Mwananchi has been providing the finest loan options to customers across the nation.


It includes salary deduction loans, which are commonly utilized by public sector workers like educators, law enforcement personnel, and various civil service members.

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India’s Growing Footprint at Arabian Travel Market 2025

India’s Growing Footprint at Arabian Travel Market 2025

ATK

New Delhi [India], March 31: India plans to showcase its significant role at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 (ATM Dubai), reinforcing its status as a global frontrunner in outbound tourism. The delegation will be headed by the Ministry of
Tourism
In India, the country aims to showcase its expanding role in the global travel and hospitality sector at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

India’s Rising Profile in Worldwide Tourism and Hotel Industry

As per the latest reports, India’s outbound tourism sector is anticipated to hit $55 billion by 2034, playing a crucial role in this field. As an increasing number of Indians explore international locations, Dubai remains among the top choices for travelers, attracting several million visitors each year.

Arabian Travel Market Dubai is an important platform for India to enhance its travel partnership and accelerate the promotion of tourism prospects.

ATM 2025: “Worldwide Travel: Shaping Tomorrow’s Future”
Tourism
Through Enhanced Connectivity”

The Arabian Travel Market 2025 will focus on the theme “Worldwide Travel: Shaping Tomorrow’s”
Tourism
By shifting the spotlight onto “Enhanced Connectivity,” where seamless travel experiences take precedence, the Arabian Travel Week (from April 28 to May 1) aims to bring together key figures from the tourism industry, travel experts, and international corporations to explore the future of tourism. At ATM 2025, India will showcase its dynamic role and initiatives in the global travel market.

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Job Centers Cut Support Due to Shortages: A Global Perspective

Job Centers Cut Support Due to Shortages: A Global Perspective

Over half of the employment centers are cutting back on assistance for individuals receiving Universal Credit because of a lack of available work coaches, as stated in a report by the government oversight body focused on public expenditure.

The National Audit Office cited insufficient funding and difficulties in hiring and keeping employees as causes for the reductions.

This increase follows a rise in the number of individuals classified as needing assistance, which has climbed from 2.6 million to 3 million over the course of one year.

The government stated they were reallocating 1,000 job counselors to assist; however, a charity advocating against poverty claimed this shortage exacerbated the issue.
proposals unveiled in the chancellor’s Spring Statement
To employ more individuals with disabilities.

Iain Porter, a senior policy advisor for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, stated that the government’s commitment to increase employment was utilized as justification for cutting disability benefits more drastically than has been seen in recent times.

He stated that the government needs to quickly clarify its plan for supportingdisabled individuals in finding employment, given the current shortage ofwork coaches.

Released on Monday, the document indicated that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) had 2,100 fewer work coaches working in England, Wales, and Scotland compared to what was deemed necessary. These staff members provide guidance and job referrals to claimants.

According to reports, approximately 57% of job centers utilized the flexibilities provided by the DWP to decrease support for claimants during periods of high caseloads from September 2023 through November 2024.

Revisions in income guidelines led to an additional 400,000 individuals becoming eligible for this form of assistance during the period ending in October.

The number of individuals claiming benefits who have moved into employment has decreased monthly over the last two years.

During the presentation of her Spring Statement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves mentioned changes to the “damaged” welfare system that will result in savings of approximately £4.8 billion by the end of the decade. Additionally, she announced an investment of £1 billion aimed at offering assured, individualized job assistance to aid individuals in returning to employment.

The DWP mentioned that they were reallocating employees to assist sick anddisabled individuals in finding employment, as well as updating job centerswith advanced digital equipment.

A spokesperson said: “Our job centres are full of brilliant work coaches – but they are held back by a system that is too focused on ticking boxes and monitoring benefits instead of genuinely supporting people back into work.

This is precisely why we are reallocating 1,000 work coaches to provide more focused employment assistance for those who are ill or have disabilities. We will also be updating our job centers with cutting-edge digital technology and enhancing accessibility so that work coaches can dedicate more of their time towards integrating services with the National Careers Service.

More on this story

  • ‘I feel overwhelmed and scrutinized at the Jobcentre.’
  • Security staff at Job Centres stage new strikes over pay disagreements

Nigerian and Chinese Firms Team Up to Mass Produce Affordable Tricycles Internationally

Easytech Integrated Services Limited, a company from Nigeria, has joined forces with Guangzhou Dayun Motorcycle Company Limited, a prominent producer of motorcycles and tricycles based in China, to manufacture affordable yet superior quality tricycles designed specifically for improving the transport of farm products in countryside regions.

A press release provided to reporters in Lokoja by Oyigu Elijah outlined that the collaboration intends to manufacture tricycles tailored for effective cargo and baggage transport.

During a joint meeting with its partners, the Managing Director and CEO of Easytech Integrated Services Limited, Alhaji Abdulsalam Iyaji—a retired Assistant Inspector General of Police from Kogi State—highlighted the significant impact that transportation has on Nigeria’s socioeconomic growth.

“Our mission is to tackle issues, and our objective here is to resolve the transportation difficulties affecting the everyday routines and economic endeavors of our community members, with special emphasis on those residing in rural regions,” Iyaji noted.

“We decided to collaborate with Dayun due to their established success and stellar standing in the market for crafting robust and effective items,” he noted.

Edo government collaborates with LAPO to address issues affecting women and girls; Okun Development Association organizes security conference; Abia government plans to work with NASS on renewable energy projects

Alhaji Iyaji emphasized the advantages of the newly introduced pickup tricycles. These vehicles are well-suited for carrying merchandise and farm products. He pointed out their efficient fuel usage, robust construction, and ability to handle demanding tasks effectively.

“These tricycles are specifically designed for transporting goods and baggage. They are robust, dependable, and boast great fuel efficiency, which makes them an ideal choice for small enterprises and personal use,” he clarified.

The partnership is set to launch cutting-edge tricycle designs powered by alternative energy sources. Iyaji shared intentions to produce electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) tricycles aimed at decreasing dependence on fuel-driven versions and adhering to international environmental objectives.

“We are currently investigating methods to manufacture electric tricycles and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) compliant versions. Our objective is to reduce the difficulties related to transport, thereby simplifying and lowering costs for people in Nigeria,” he stated additionally.

Ms. Heidi, the Sales Manager at Guangzhou Dayun Motorcycle Co. Ltd., conveyed her company’s excitement about the collaboration during the event.

“We are delighted to join forces with Easytech Integrated Services Limited, a reliable and forward-thinking firm. This partnership represents a crucial move toward enhancing our reach and influence in Nigeria, which stands as the continent’s most populated nation,” she stated.

The event saw the presence of important delegates from both organizations, featuring Mr. Niu, who holds the position of Technical Officer at Dayun, alongside Mr. Suleiman Iyaji, serving as the Sales Director for Easytech Integrated Services Limited.

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