19th February 2024
Twitter to Engage Fired Ghana Staff Over Severance Dispute
Twitter Inc. has agreed to negotiate with terminated employees from its Ghana office after complaints of inadequate severance packages. The move follows requests to adhere to local labor laws, with around 20 employees affected. Lawyer Carla Olympio confirms talks, seeking adherence to Ghanaian redundancy provisions. Elon Musk's recent acquisition led to widespread layoffs globally, with Ghana staff initially offered less than promised severance. The ministry of employment in Ghana has engaged with affected workers. Twitter representatives have yet to comment on the matter.
African Economic Growth Slows Amid Political Instability and External Shocks
The African Development Bank reports a decline in Africa's economic growth to 3.2% in 2023 from 4.1% in 2022, attributing it to political instability and external factors like China's economic slowdown and the Ukraine war. Despite projections for improved growth in most regions except central Africa, the final figure fell below forecasts. The report highlights the challenges facing countries like Nigeria, with devaluation impacting inflation, and Egypt, where inflation and forex shortages dampen growth. South Africa's sluggish performance continues, hindering democratic progress despite upcoming elections.
Ethiopia Inks Deal for Data Mining and AI Infrastructure
Ethiopia's strategic investment arm has signed a preliminary agreement for infrastructure development in data mining and artificial intelligence training operations. While initial reports suggested a $250 million deal with a subsidiary of Hong Kong's West Data Group, details were later removed. Neither Ethiopian Investment Holdings nor West Data Group commented on the deal. Ethiopia's emergence as a bitcoin mining hub, driven by low power costs, contrasts with China's ban on crypto activities in 2021. With 90% of its power from hydropower, Ethiopia aims to leverage its energy resources for tech development.
Israel’s Offensive in Gaza Condemned at African Union Summit
Leaders at an African Union summit in Addis Ababa denounced Israel's actions in Gaza, labelling it a "flagrant violation" of international law. Moussa Faki, chair of the African Union Commission, and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh addressed the summit, with Faki affirming solidarity with Palestine. Azali Assoumani, outgoing AU chairperson, praised South Africa's legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice and condemned what he termed "genocide" by Israel in Palestine. The summit also highlighted concerns over conflicts and coups across Africa.
