An excited hard worker, looking for hardcore assignments to expose.
Exploring myself, down to earth friendly but very strict for my work.

Saudi Arabia needs a sea change in higher education

01 Feb 2024  |  www.agbi.com  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Saudi Arabia's higher education system needs significant changes to align with Vision 2030 and support economic diversification. The focus should shift towards fields like AI, robotics, nuclear energy, and renewable energy to meet the evolving job market demands. The government aims to increase private sector participation in education, moving from a service provider to a regulator role. The decline in Saudi students studying abroad presents opportunities for international universities to expand in the kingdom. The growing population will drive demand for higher education, healthcare, and hospitality services, necessitating more qualified professionals and advanced training programs.

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Economic Diversification Higher Education Vision 2030

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Paul Cochrane is a freelance journalist based in Udine, Italy. He lived in Beirut, Lebanon from 2002 to 2019, and in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa from 2019 until 2024.

He has written for over 80 publications worldwide, covering financial crime, business, higher education and skills developments, ...

Saudi Arabia’s digital dream: Silicon Valley for the Middle East

01 Oct 2023  |  Middle East Eye  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Saudi Arabia is investing heavily to become the digital hub of the Middle East, attracting global tech giants like Microsoft, Google, Oracle, Meta, and Apple. Under its Vision 2030 plan, the kingdom aims to diversify its economy by enhancing its ICT infrastructure. Challenges include the need for more data centers, the ongoing US-China tech war, and concerns over human rights and digital privacy. Despite these hurdles, significant investments are being made in cloud services, data centers, and smart city projects like Neom. The success of these ambitions will depend on economic viability and the ability to navigate geopolitical tensions.

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Economic Diversification Digital Transformation Technology Investment

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Political View

Steven Crook is a journalist based in Tainan City, Taiwan.

Taiwan’s Farm Exporters Look to Unlock New Markets

01 Apr 2023  |  Taiwan Business TOPICS  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Taiwanese farm exporters are striving to diversify their markets beyond China due to recent trade disruptions and political tensions. The Council of Agriculture (COA) is working to expand export channels and stabilize supply chains. Notable successes include exporting orchids and mangoes to New Zealand, and pineapples to Australia. However, exporters face challenges such as stringent import regulations and lack of government support. The COA is investing in cold chain logistics and quality assurance to meet international standards. Experts call for a comprehensive overhaul of the agricultural sector to address climate change impacts and support young farmers.

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Economic Diversification Agricultural Exports Trade Relations

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Salim Essaid is an American TV/online presenter/producer specializing in technology, business, energy and innovation. 

From 2018 to 2020 he was the lead reporter on the Euronews feature program Inspire Middle East, covering topics ranging from culture & the arts to business & innovation in ...

Saudi holdings of US Treasuries hit record low, signaling push to diversify from dollar

20 Aug 2023  |  Al-Monitor  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Saudi Arabia's US Treasury holdings fell to a six-year low in June, reflecting a broader trend among countries with significant US Treasury investments to diversify away from the dollar. Saudi Arabia sold over $3 billion in June, reducing its holdings to $108.1 billion, the lowest since December 2016. The UAE also reduced its holdings by $4 billion, aligning with Gulf states' strategies to invest in higher-risk, higher-return assets and initiatives to diversify their economies away from oil dependence.

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Economic Diversification Financial Markets Investment Strategies

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Amanda Fisher is an award-winning journalist and photographer based in Nairobi, Kenya. She writes primarily feature articles on a range of topics like women's rights, humanitarian issues and conservation, for a number of publications including Al Jazeera, Thomson Reuters and Middle East Eye, having ...

City in the sky: Dubai’s constructed identity set to get even taller

01 Oct 2023  |  Middle East Eye  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Dubai's skyline, already renowned for its architectural boldness, is set to become even more dramatic with plans for the world's tallest commercial, residential, and twin towers. Despite past financial crises, Dubai has rebounded with a diversified economy, focusing on aviation, tourism, and property. Key projects include the Royal Atlantis Resorts and Residences, Entisar Tower, Burj 2020, Dubai One Tower, and RP One. Experts highlight Dubai's strategic urban planning, stable bedrock, and minimal red tape as factors enabling rapid and affordable construction. The city's ambitious vision continues to attract global attention and investment, solidifying its status as a mega global city.

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Economic Diversification Urban Development Architecture

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Cyril Fourneris is a freelance journalist based in Paris, France, with 7 years of experience in international broadcast. He speaks English, French, Spanish and Portuguese.

Riyadh's Ambitions as a Candidate to Host the 2030 World Expo

23 Jun 2023  |  fr.euronews.com  |  French  |  Economic Diversification

Saudi Arabia is vying to host the 2030 World Expo in Riyadh, presenting a theme focused on change and future preparedness. The bid aligns with the country's Vision 2030, aiming to attract over 40 million visitors. Key figures, including Adel Al Jubeir and Haifa Al Mogrin, emphasize the Expo's role in showcasing Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainability and economic diversification. The proposed site near Riyadh's airport will feature pavilions for each participating country, partially funded by Saudi Arabia, and a symbolic monument representing global equality. The bid also aims to boost tourism and leisure sectors, with significant international collaboration and investment. The Kingdom promises a carbon-negative Expo, reflecting its dedication to sustainable development.

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Economic Diversification World Expo 2030 Sustainability

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Journaliste freelance basé à Luanda, capitale de l'Angola, avec plus de 15 ans d'expérience, spécialisé dans la rédaction de nouvelles, le reportage et l'analyse d'informations dans des contextes économique, financier, politique, social et culturel. 
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Freelance journalist based in ...

Sale of Surplus Electricity: A Step Towards Diversifying the Angolan Economy

06 Oct 2024  |  www.voaportugues.com  |  Portuguese  |  Economic Diversification

Angola plans to diversify its economy by selling surplus electricity to neighboring countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, and Namibia. This initiative aims to stabilize external accounts, reduce trade deficits, and strengthen international reserves. However, challenges remain, such as ensuring effective use of surplus energy and improving domestic electricity coverage, which currently stands at 43%. The project involves constructing a 1,200-kilometer power line and several dams, with private sector involvement. Analysts express mixed opinions, highlighting the need for efficient management and cautioning against premature exportation given Angola's internal energy needs. The success of this initiative depends on infrastructure management, international collaboration, and internal organization.

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Economic Diversification Angolan Economy Energy Export

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Melinda Healy is a journalist based in Sydney, Australia. She has 20 years of industry experience and has worked within the Australian and Middle Eastern media.  
Mel is a contributor for Conde Nast Traveler, Culture Trip and a destination expert for Telegraph Travel. She has written for ...

Bahrain to host world’s largest culinary tourism event

29 Oct 2024  |  www.connectingtravel.com  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Bahrain will host the ninth edition of the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in November 2024, marking the first time the event is held in the Middle East. The forum, themed 'Gastronomy Tourism: A Driver of Economic Diversification and Inclusion', will gather over 400 participants, including top chefs and industry experts, to discuss the role of gastronomy in cultural diplomacy and economic diversification. Key topics include destination branding and sustainable practices in gastronomy tourism. The event is organized by the UNWTO, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, and the Basque Culinary Centre.

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Economic Diversification Culinary Tourism Gastronomy

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Elena Kaniadakis is a journalist based in Athens, Greece.

Rethinking Rome's Economy: Trastevere's Challenge Amidst Pandemic

05 Apr 2023  |  euronews  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

The article by Elena Kaniadakis discusses the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Rome's tourism-dependent economy, particularly in the Trastevere district. With a significant drop in tourist numbers, local businesses and residents are facing challenges. Housing expert Sarah Gainsforth and local residents like Roberta D'Onofrio are finding innovative solutions, such as converting holiday homes into workspaces. The article highlights the over-reliance on tourism and the need for economic diversification. It also touches on the broader issue of 'touristification' in cities worldwide and the potential for regulatory measures to balance tourism with local quality of life. The pandemic is seen as an opportunity to rethink and potentially revitalize local communities, but there is also a risk of increased speculation and loss of public assets if timely actions are not taken.

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Economic Diversification Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism Urban Depopulation Local Community and Identity Regulation of Accommodations Overtourism

Clarkson Mambo is a multi-skilled journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe primarily skilled in print and photo journalism, focused on covering multi-sectoral issues (social, political, business, finance) across the SADC region, with a bias towards developmental journalism.

Steady progress in SADC’s manufacturing sector

30 Jun 2023  |  www.herald.co.zw  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

The article discusses the progress made by Southern Africa in developing its manufacturing sector, as highlighted in the '40 Years of SADC: Enhancing Regional Cooperation and Integration' publication. The publication, launched at the SADC Extraordinary Summit in Maputo, Mozambique, indicates an increase in the manufacturing sector's contribution to the region's GDP from 10.3% in 2013 to 11.9% in 2018. Despite this growth, the sector remains largely undiversified, with agriculture and mining still dominating. SADC's chairperson, President Felipe Nyusi, emphasizes the need for enhanced value addition and beneficiation of natural resources, as outlined in the SADC Industrialization Strategy and Roadmap. The strategy aims to strengthen the region's economies and reduce dependency on exporting raw materials. The article also mentions the need for innovative funding, reliable energy, and a strong human resources base to further expand manufacturing. The publication is a collaborative effort between the SADC Secretariat and SARDC, aiming to showcase the region's achievements and the benefits of regional integration to its citizens.

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Economic Diversification Regional Integration Manufacturing Sector Development

Andrew Maramwidze is a Freelance journalist based in Gaborone, Botswana, a diamond rich country in Southern Africa. Have worked with several editors across the globe on various projects.

BDC breathes life to Lobatse

04 Oct 2024  |  guardiansun.co.bw  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) is revitalizing Lobatse's economy through strategic investments in industries like Delta Automotive Technologies and Milk Afric. The latest project, Lobatse Clay Works (LCW), aligns with Botswana's Vision 2036 for economic diversification. Mayor Mosimanegape Dithebe and Minister of Trade and Industry Mmusi Kgafela commend BDC's efforts, highlighting the government's support in creating a conducive environment for industrial growth. The new LCW plant, featuring advanced technologies, is set to be one of the most modern and energy-efficient facilities in the region.

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Economic Diversification Industrial Development

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Kevin McGwin is a journalist based on the Danish island of Bornholm.

Greenland’s Inuit to use membership of Arctic commerce group to push pro-mining message

01 Oct 2023  |  www.arctictoday.com  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Greenland's Inuit, represented by ICC-Greenland, have joined the Arctic Economic Council independently to promote mining and tourism as part of efforts to diversify Greenland's economy. This move aims to reduce reliance on fishing and decrease dependency on subsidies from Denmark. The new Greenland government, while opposing mining of radioactive minerals, supports the development of the mining sector. ICC-Greenland seeks to use its new platform to attract miners and ensure profits from Arctic resources benefit the region.

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Economic Diversification Mining Indigenous Rights

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Mbongeni Mguni is a journalist with 16 years experience in business, economy and financial reporting, with 14 years of these spent at the level of senior reporter and above. I have worked and been published in Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Botswana with the last having been my home since 2004.
...

BoB releases P2bn to banks as govt cash crunch spills over

09 Dec 2024  |  www.mmegi.bw  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

The Bank of Botswana (BoB) has reduced the Primary Reserve Ratio to zero, releasing P2.1 billion to banks to address a liquidity crunch exacerbated by declining diamond revenues affecting Debswana and government finances. The liquidity in the banking sector has significantly decreased, with government spending and Debswana sales being major contributors. The Finance Ministry forecasts a record budget deficit, prompting measures to control public expenditure and enhance revenue collection. The BoB anticipates economic contraction this year with a moderate recovery in 2025.

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Economic Diversification Government Cash Crunch Bank Liquidity

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Timothy Obiezu is a multimedia journalist with years of reporting and broadcast experience. He freelances for global media outlets like VOA, TRT World, Vice News, etc from his current based in Abuja, Nigeria.

Nigeria's Mining Week Sharpens Focus On Long-Neglected Sector

21 Nov 2024  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Nigeria concluded its National Mining Week with a focus on expanding investments in the mining sector to diversify the economy. The government emphasized local processing of minerals to create jobs and increase revenue. Despite rich mineral deposits, illegal mining remains a challenge, with authorities pledging to enhance enforcement and technology. The Mining Marshal Corps has arrested over 300 illegal miners. However, critics like Eze Onyekpere argue that the government's efforts are insufficient, as the mining sector contributed only 0.77% to GDP last year.

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Economic Diversification Mining Industry Illegal Mining

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Afolake Oyinloye is a journalist based in Limoges, France.
Journalist/Travel & Business enthusiast/Moderator

Botswana: The Challenges of Economic Diversification

07 Nov 2024  |  fr.africanews.com  |  French  |  Economic Diversification

Botswana faces economic uncertainty with rising unemployment and declining global demand for diamonds, its economic cornerstone. As the world's second-largest producer of natural diamonds, the country must diversify its economy. Experts suggest firm negotiations with key players like De Beers are crucial. Analyst Marisa Lourenço discusses the government's approach, considering the impact of lab-grown diamonds and the viability of other economic sectors.

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Economic Diversification Diamond Industry

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Gabriela Pérez is a journalist based in México.

Businessmen seek to diversify the economy and demand stable fuel supply by 2025

08 Nov 2024  |  Radio Fides  |  Spanish  |  Economic Diversification

Business leaders in La Paz, led by Rolando Kempff, emphasize the region's significant contribution to Bolivia's GDP and propose strategies to diversify the economy, including promoting green economy initiatives and exploring emerging sectors like tourism and artificial intelligence. They highlight recent collaborative efforts with the central government to boost production and access international markets. Guillermo Morales, former president of the National Chamber of Commerce, underscores the role of private enterprises in sustaining the national economy but raises concerns over fuel shortages and blockades, advocating for transparent dialogue with the state to ensure a stable fuel supply by 2025.

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Economic Diversification Fuel Supply

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Allyson Portee is a journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon.

This is how Saudi Arabia is revolutionizing the fashion industry

01 Oct 2023  |  Forbes España  |  Spanish  |  Economic Diversification

Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in the fashion industry as part of its Saudi Vision 2030 initiative, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudi Commission for Fashion, established in 2020 and headed by Burak Çakmak, aims to contribute significantly to the Kingdom's GDP by fostering a robust fashion ecosystem. The Commission's efforts include launching the Saudi 100 Brands program, partnering with the Institut Français de la Mode for educational courses, and creating comprehensive market data reports. The fashion sector is seen as a key area for economic diversification, with a strong focus on local talent and female participation. The initiatives are designed to integrate traditional Saudi heritage with modern fashion, positioning Saudi Arabia as a unique player in the global fashion industry.

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Economic Diversification Fashion Industry Saudi Vision 2030

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Richie Santosdiaz is a known international trade and economic development subject matter expert - both as a consultant as well as commentator on this realm in both print and also video (live and pre-recorded). He is bilingual (English and Spanish) and has done 100+ pieces/interviews mainly in the ...

How is Senegal Leveraging Fintech to Overcome Major Inclusion and Economic Challenges?

05 Feb 2025  |  thefintechtimes.com  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Senegal is leveraging fintech to address financial inclusion and economic diversification challenges. Historically reliant on agriculture, the country is diversifying into sectors like tourism and natural resources. Despite high mobile phone usage, traditional financial services are underutilized, especially in rural areas. Fintech solutions, particularly mobile money, are improving financial access, with companies like Wave, Bayseddo, and Sudpay leading the charge. Key organizations such as the Central Bank of the West African States and the Senegalese Information Technology Association play significant roles in this transformation.

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Economic Diversification Financial Inclusion Fintech

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Nayan Seth is a multimedia journalist based in Washington, DC. He has worked in leading newsrooms in India and China for over a decade. He covers the diversification of critical minerals supply chains and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. His expertise is in India-China relations, India-...

De-risking in the Pacific: Mariana Islands eye Japan, South Korea for Tourism Reboot

01 Jul 2024  |  Asia Matters for America  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

The Northern Mariana Islands are shifting their tourism focus from China to Japan and South Korea amid geopolitical tensions and economic challenges. The islands, a US territory, are grappling with the need to diversify their economy, heavily reliant on tourism, while addressing security concerns due to their strategic location near Guam. Efforts to attract tourists from Japan and South Korea have been hampered by logistical issues and economic factors, while the government faces criticism for its anti-China stance. The US Department of Defense is investing in military projects on the islands, and Google is enhancing connectivity with undersea cables. The islands' future is influenced by their geopolitical significance and economic dependencies.

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Economic Diversification Tourism Geopolitics

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Ben Shemang is a journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

Nigeria Aims to Tap Into the Global Lithium Market

19 Oct 2023  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Nigeria is shifting its economic focus from oil to mining, particularly targeting the booming global lithium market. The government has implemented stricter regulations to ensure that lithium mining includes local processing and benefits local communities. This move aims to create jobs and prevent environmental degradation. The Chinese company Ganfeng Lithium Industry Ltd. is already building a lithium processing plant in Nasarawa state. The Nigerian government is also investing in the National Integrated Mineral Exploration Project to gather data and promote sustainable mining practices. However, there are concerns about illegal mining and its environmental impact.

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Economic Diversification Mining Industry Lithium Market

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Suranjana Tewari is a journalist based in Mumbai, India.

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Pacific Island Fiji aims for a high-tech future

01 Oct 2023  |  BBC  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Fiji is looking to diversify its economy by investing in technology and business services, moving away from traditional industries and tourism. Entrepreneur Truman Bradley highlights the potential for tech sectors like app development to retain local graduates. The country faces challenges from climate change and geopolitical competition but sees opportunities in expanding markets for products like ginger, turmeric, and kava. The government and local leaders emphasize the importance of processing local resources to maximize economic benefits and employment opportunities.

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Economic Diversification Climate Change Technology

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Menekse Tokyay is a journalist based in Ankara, Turkey. 

Since 2010, I am a Turkey correspondent and writer to many international outlets, including Southeastern European Times, Al Arabiya English, Arab News, International Business Times -UK, Business News Europe, Deutsche Welle, Washington Post ...

Appointment of first EU special representative for Gulf region is proof of ambition to work together, Luigi Di Maio tells Arab News

23 Oct 2023  |  Arab News  |  English  |  Economic Diversification

Luigi Di Maio, the first EU special representative for the Gulf region, emphasized the EU's ambition to deepen ties with the Gulf states during his visit to Saudi Arabia. He highlighted the importance of new partnerships in a changing world, influenced by events like the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the pandemic. Di Maio discussed the alignment of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 with EU projects such as NextGenerationEU and the European Green Deal, particularly in the field of hydrogen energy. He also addressed security concerns and the EU's stance against the burning of holy texts. The visit included meetings with key figures and organizations, underscoring the EU's commitment to a strategic partnership with the Gulf region.

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Economic Diversification EU-Gulf Relations Russia-Ukraine Conflict Energy Vision 2030

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