Latest news with #PanAfrican
Zawya
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Zawya
ORUN Studios unveils its immersive narrative universe in Abidjan, on the sidelines of International Exhibition of Audiovisual Content (SICA) 2025
On the occasion of the International Exhibition of Audiovisual Content (SICA), ORUN Studios ( officially launched at the Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire in Abidjan. Conceived as a Pan-African studio for visual storytelling, animation, and immersive creation, ORUN Studios aims to give Africa back the power to tell its own worlds — through its forms, rhythms, and symbols. This launch is more than just an inauguration: it is a manifesto. A manifesto from a continent choosing to craft its narratives from within, using a contemporary language while honoring its legacies. ORUN thus opens up a new narrative space that is rooted, bold, and intergenerational. For the first time, the public is invited to discover the universe of ORUN, envisioned as a creative empire built around seven symbolic kingdoms, each representing a core priority for Africa: health, education, culture, ecology, craftsmanship, circular economy, and sustainable infrastructure. Through these worlds, ORUN Studios lays the foundation for a contemporary African mythology, designed to reconnect younger generations with their living memory — using a language they understand: 3D animation, comics, and immersive design — to help them build the future. An immersive, sensory, and proudly Pan-African launch The highlight of the event is an immersive installation inside a 6-meter geodesic dome, conceived as an audiovisual portal into the worlds of ORUN. Video mapping, spatialized sound, dance, and visual storytelling are combined to offer a 360° artistic experience. The program also includes: Thematic talks on contemporary African imagination A Pan-African creative challenge around the ORUN universe B2B meetings between studios, creators, investors, and institutions Contributions from artists, thinkers, and influencers from the continent and the diaspora Exclusive immersive sessions for the media On the occasion of its launch at SICA, ORUN Studios had the pleasure of collaborating with Loza Maleombho — a visionary designer committed to the continent's development — who led the artistic direction of the stand. A vision rooted in autonomy and transmission 'ORUN Studios is a house of stories for an Africa that no longer waits to be narrated but speaks out with confidence. Our ambition is to build a bridge between African roots and future technologies. ORUN Studios aims to heal forgetting through image — it speaks to youth in their language, so they can remember, take root, and rise,' says Habyba Thiero, Founder of ORUN Studios. An initiative led by Africa Currency Network (ACN) ORUN is an initiative by the Africa Currency Network (ACN), a strategic group of Pan-African experts committed to the continent's structural transformation and a member of the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC). Driven by the belief that Africa must build its own systems, stories, and talents, ACN designs sustainable solutions in the fields of finance, culture, digital inclusion, and creative education. Its approach is based on three core pillars: Financial inclusion Intergenerational impact Africa's internationalization Through these interconnected pillars, Africa Currency Network envisions a continent that is financially autonomous, culturally vibrant, and globally influential. By combining economic strategies with cultural affirmation, ACN fosters an ecosystem where African talent thrives and takes the lead — recognizing that transformation requires strong social, cultural, and economic frameworks centered on African agency. Location: Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire – Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire Dates: June 26–28, 2025 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of ORUN Studios. Media contact&RSVP: contact@ +225 05 00 54 68 68 Follow Social Media (@ OrunAfrica on): Instagram TikTok YouTube LinkedIn Official Website:
IOL News
11-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Pan African Resources achieves record gold production while significantly reducing debt
Pan African Resources on Wednesday reported record second-half gold production and a sharp reduction in debt for the 2025 financial year, as the miner looks to ramp up output by more than 40% in the coming year. The announcement, however, was overshadowed by a fatal accident at its Barberton operation earlier this month. The South Africa-focused gold producer said one employee lost their life at the Sheba Mine on June 6. The company said it will continue efforts to achieve 'zero harm' across its operations. Despite the tragedy, operationally the company ended the fiscal year on a strong note. Gold production for the second half of 2025 is estimated at approximately 112 000 ounces, a 32% increase from the first half (84 705 ounces), driven by improved grades, stronger performance from underground operations, and the ramp-up of tailings retreatment projects. Full-year production is expected at about 197 000 ounces, a 6% increase year-on-year. Cobus Loots, Pan African's CEO, said, "I believe the Group has never been better positioned to take advantage of record gold prices, with record second half gold production being testament to that achievement. Increased cashflow generation and de-gearing is allowing our business to continue to invest and grow, whilst also increasing cash returns to shareholders. The share buy back programme approved by our board demonstrates our confidence in the Group and its prospects." Loots said the commissioning during May 2025 of the processing plant at Tennant Mines in Australia is a significant achievement for the group and maintains its track record of delivering new mining projects on time and within budget. "We have also now demonstrated our ability to commission large scale projects outside of South Africa," he said. In addition to a notable immediate increase in Pan African's production capacity, Loots said Pan African's investment in Tennant also provides for exciting growth in a Tier-1 mining jurisdiction, with some 1700 square kilometres of prospective exploration ground, and our newly established processing plant at Tennant Mines being the only such facility in the region. Debt Falls Sharply, Share Buyback Announced Pan African reduced its net debt by 32% to approximately $155 million (R2.8 billion) as of June 30, 2025, from $228.5m at the end of December. The company expects to be fully degeared during 2026 at current gold prices. The miner also plans to be fully unhedged from July, having exited its final zero-cost collar positions and synthetic forward contracts. In a move to return value to shareholders, Pan African's board has approved a share buyback programme of up to ZAR200 million, starting June 17. "The board believes that at the current share price, the company's shares offer significant value, given the quality and profitability of the group's existing operations and growth projects. The board has, therefore, taken the decision to implement the programme as part of the company's broader strategy to deliver value to shareholders," it said. Cost Guidance Rises The company acknowledged that full-year output fell short of guidance primarily due to slower-than-expected commissioning at two key projects: the Evander sub-vertical shaft and the tailings filter press section at the new Tennant Mines plant. Tennant, which achieved its first gold pour in May, is expected to reach steady-state production of around 50 000 ounces per annum by the first quarter of 2026. Pan African's all-in sustaining costs (AISC) for the second half of 2025 are now forecast between $1 525 and $1 550 per ounce, above prior guidance. For the full year, AISC is expected to range between $1 550 and $1 575/oz, impacted by lower-than-planned production and a $25/oz loss from expired hedge positions. Looking ahead, the company projects 2026 gold production between 275,000 and 292000 ounces - a 40% year-on-year increase - with group AISC expected to fall to between $1 475 and $1 525/oz. Growth will be supported by full-year contributions from the Mogale Tailings Retreatment (MTR) plant, higher production at Evander and Tennant Mines, and improved operating efficiencies at Barberton following a recent restructuring. At midday the share price was up 0.99% at R11.26 on the JSE. BUSINESS REPORT Visit:
New York Times
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
These Fantasy Novels Breathe New Life Into Old Myths
To read a fantasy novel is to allow yourself to be taken somewhere new, where magic is real and the usual rules do not apply. But sometimes those strange worlds can also feel familiar — like a layer of fresh paint on a canvas you've seen before. That's because the bedtime tales we pored over as kids, full of mythical monsters and gods, are a particularly potent source of inspiration for the fantasy novels we grew to adore as adults. And retellings are having their moment within the genre, with many authors drawing on mythology and folklore from across the world — India, Korea, Mexico, Poland — to tell enchanting new stories with ancient roots. If you're itching for a fantasy novel swirling with mythology, one of these books might do the trick. Beasts of Prey The residents of the city of Lkossa know two things to be true: Magic is dead, and the jungle is watching. Once a glorious center of supernatural power, Lkossa is now a shattered place — terrorized by the Shetani, a deadly monster that hunts the city's people at night. When 16-year-old Koffi ignites an unexpected power within herself, she's forced to enter into an uneasy alliance with Ekon, an elite warrior desperate for redemption, and hunt down the Shetani. The duo's quest takes them to the Greater Jungle, a treacherously magical place, where creatures from Pan-African folklore lie in wait. Eerie and creeping with a strong emotional heart, 'Beasts of Prey,' the first book in a trilogy, deftly explores the weight of generational trauma and the dangerous power of monstrous myths. Read our review. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Globe and Mail
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Minna LaFortune Drops Dance With Me Volume II – Live Celebration Concert on Facebook, June 7
Get ready to dance, feel, and celebrate—because Minna LaFortune is back with a powerful new album, Dance with Me Volume II, dropping June 7. A force in the reggae scene, Minna blends reggae, Afrobeat, dancehall, and amapiano into an electrifying mix of rhythm and soul, bringing messages of love, unity, empowerment, and social justice straight to your speakers. "This album is my heart, my roots, and my hope for a better world—where music unites, heals, and uplifts," says Minna LaFortune. "I want fans to move, to feel, to connect. Let's dance together!" With influences spanning rocksteady, ska, dub, Afrobeat, and dancehall, this album is more than just music—it's a movement. A standout track, The Black Star Liner, pays tribute to Marcus Garvey's vision of African unity, delivering a soundscape that resonates across generations. Dance with Me Volume II features an unforgettable lineup of songs, each carrying deep meaning and infectious grooves: - Don't Drink Your Sorrows – A soul-stirring anthem of resilience and hope - Reggae Music is Love to Me – A heartfelt tribute to the transformative power of reggae - The Black Star Liner – A musical journey toward pan-African solidarity - Shine di Light – A call for awakening and economic justice - Baby Baby I Love You – A romantic ballad filled with passion and tenderness - Global Warming & Global Warming Dub – An urgent message about climate change - This is the Time for Me – A fierce declaration of self-empowerment - Dance to the Afro Beat (Afrobeat) – A pulsating celebration of African heritage - Cease Fire & Cease Fire Dub – A compelling plea for a stop to gun violence in urban communities - The Message – A tribute to reggae legends and their lasting impact - Weekend Vibes (Amapiano) – The perfect feel-good party anthem Watch, Listen, Experience! Several of the album's songs feature lyrical videos available now on YouTube, immersing fans in the powerful storytelling behind the music. Cease Fire already has an official music video, and the video for Global Warming is set to premiere June 18—a must-watch moment. Be Part of the Celebration – Live Concert June 7 on Facebook To mark the release, Minna LaFortune is hosting a live concert on Facebook on June 7—a spectacular event filled with high-energy performances, exclusive insights, and a deep connection to the music. How to Get the Album Dance with Me Volume II will be available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and all major platforms. Want a physical copy? Preorder your CD today by sending your order to the email: minna154@ About Minna LaFortune A bold and soulful voice in reggae, Minna LaFortune is known for her passionate storytelling, socially conscious lyrics, and irresistible rhythms. She brings music that inspires, unites, and energizes, proving that reggae remains a powerful force for change. Watch on Youtube. For more details, visit Media Contact Company Name: Minna LaFortune Music Contact Person: Minna LaFortune Email: Send Email Phone: 9177717935 Country: United States Website:
India Gazette
29-05-2025
- Sport
- India Gazette
Record-breaking Season 3 marks continued growth for SA20
Johannesburg [South Africa], May 29 (ANI): SA20 has cemented its position as one of the best-supported live sport events in South Africa, with Season 3 data across broadcast, attendance and digital showcasing record-breaking performances and continued growth. Capacity crowds again marked the season, with the League witnessing a remarkable 70 per cent increase in sold-out matches and a sold-out Final for the third consecutive year, making this the best-attended SA20 season to date. Over four-hundred thousand fans streamed through the turnstiles at the six venues around the country. Newlands, the home of Season 3 champions MI Cape Town, made history by becoming the first venue to sell out all five home matches, as per a press release from SA20. The League also achieved a significant milestone by selling its 1 millionth ticket to a lucky recipient during the match between Joburg Super Kings and Sunrisers Eastern Cape at Wanderers. In the annual survey, fans confirmed that the stadium was the place to be, with 93 per cent describing their experience as 'excellent' and 90 per cent indicating they were likely to attend Season 4. Nielsen Sports SA data reveals that viewership continues to increase, with the overall audience reach on SuperSport up by a significant 47 per cent, a testimony to the collaboration of the League and SuperSport to grow new audiences. The opening match of the season between Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town was the most viewed opening match to date. South Africans were also glued to the Final with a 72 per cent uplift in viewership from Season 2 as viewers watched new champions, MI Cape Town, win the title. Nielsen Sport SA further reported that global television viewership across broadcasters including India, the UK, the US and Pan African markets increased by 37 per cent, revealing the growing appeal of South Africa's premier T20 competition as one of the top T20 franchise leagues around the world. In a fast-moving digital landscape, SA20 continues to show incredible growth with a 62 per cent increase in followers across all social media platforms, an 87 per cent increase in the following for Franchise teams, a 93 per cent increase in video views and a 233% rise in website traffic users from Season 2. As the awareness of the competition grows, this interest is reflected in exponential growth in the PR and media sectors in both South Africa and India. The League achieved a 30 per cent growth in media value in SA, while there were excellent results in India driving a 96 per cent increase in media value and a 231 per cent surge in print stories. League Commissioner, Graeme Smith, said: 'Season three of the SA20 has been an absolute game-changer. This is the third year running that we have seen unprecedented growth across broadcast, attendance and digital platforms; we have really made a mark as one of the leading sports and entertainment brands in the country. Globally, our numbers continue to increase and support our vision of being the biggest T20 cricket league outside of India. We could not have achieved this success without the fans, partners, world-class players, broadcasters, franchises and stakeholders, it is been incredible to see the passion and commitment towards the League.' SA20's commitment to youth and talent development both on and off the field was showcased via various initiatives in Season 3. Through its leadership programme, the League provided 26 young industry talent--including 4 Laureus YES (Youth Employment in Sport) programme recipients and 6 photography students--with the opportunity to work and gain experience as part of the competition's delivery team on the ground. The League also raised R630,000 for its social impact partner, the Laureus Sports for Good Foundation. Using sport including cricket programmes, the Foundation helps young people overcome limitations imposed by challenging social issues including poverty, homelessness, violence drug abuse and AIDS. Another highlight of the season was the opportunity to positively impact South African cricket's eco-system with the launch of the inaugural Schools SA20. Over 600 schools competed with a first-ever national girls' competition being incorporated. The competition reached a thrilling finish with the Schools SA20 Final Showdown at the Cricket SA High Performance Centre in Pretoria, where Steyn City School from Johannesburg and Bishops Diocesan College from Cape Town were crowned the inaugural girls' and boys' champions respectively. As part of the prize, the League and SACA also provided a full scholarship to two promising Grade 7 cricketers (one boy and one girl learner) to attend the winning schools, covering annual school fees, hostel fees (if applicable) and additional costs. 'The positive impact off the field is equally important and rewarding for us as the League,' Smith explained. 'The Schools SA20 was an excellent platform for the next generation in its debut season and will no doubt continue to give hundreds of young cricketers around the country opportunities. Planning is progressing well for Season 4 in the new holiday window, and we look forward to celebrating the festive season with all our fans.' The fourth season of the competition will get under on December 26, 2025, with major announcements around fixtures, player signings, and the auction to be communicated soon. (ANI)
