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Network International Launches In-Person Payment Solutions in Kenya

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Network International (Network), a leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, has launched innovative in-person payment solutions in Kenya, as part of its plans to transform payment across Africa. “Launching our point-of-sale solutions is part of our strategy to enter the in-person payments market in Kenya. As a...
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DHL Expands Heavy Cargo Service

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Heavy Weight Express enables global heavyweight express shipping up to 1,000 kg per piece / 3,000 kg per shipment Proactive shipment control through dedicated Heavy Weight Priority Desks ensures high reliability and customer service support DHL Express expands in the heavyweight segment, responding to growing demand
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Africa Powers Carbon Market Delivery

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As global carbon markets shift from rule‑setting to real transactions, with Article 6 mechanisms advancing and compliance‑driven demand such as CORSIA coming into sharper focus, attention is turning to where credible supply and policy certainty can be delivered at scale. For Africa, this marks a transition from carbon market readiness to delivery. Against this backdrop, the Carbon Markets Africa Summit (CMAS) 2026 will take place from 13–15 October 2026 in Kigali, Rwanda, bringing together policymakers, investors, buyers, project developers and market enablers at a pivotal moment for global carbon markets. The Summit is delivered with the support of the Ministry of Environment of Rwanda, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) and AUDA‑NEPAD, and with support from private sector partners such as SGS and Anthesis. Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s most advanced carbon market jurisdictions, with active engagement under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and a strong focus on mobilising climate finance. “Rwanda has made a deliberate choice to position carbon markets as a tool for climate action, investment mobilisation and long-term development,” said Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye, Minister of Environment, Rwanda. “Hosting CMAS 2026 reflects our commitment to building credible and investable carbon projects that deliver real value for our economy, communities and climate goals.” At a continental level, carbon markets are increasingly seen as a strategic financing mechanism for development. “The Summit provides a timely platform for African countries to shape the future of carbon markets in line with the continent’s development priorities, and reflects the growing momentum to build credible, high-integrity markets that deliver real value”, said Olufunso Somorin, Regional Principal Officer, Climate Change and Green Growth Programme, African Development Bank. “The Bank remains committed to working with our countries and partners to strengthen the policy, regulatory, and institutional frameworks needed to scale carbon markets, attract investments, and ensure Africa is well-positioned in global carbon markets.” “As Africa transitions to a low‑carbon economy, the mobilisation of private capital is needed at scale to support climate mitigation activities and build climate‑resilient infrastructure,” said Kumesh Naidoo, Carbon Markets Lead at the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA). “As a regional DFI, the DBSA recognises the importance of carbon markets as a climate finance tool and has intentionally stepped forward to support their development through carbon financial instruments, capacitation support and the building of a robust carbon project pipeline. Partnering with CMAS 2026 provides the DBSA with a platform to advance these objectives.” CMAS 2026 is held under the theme: “Africa’s Carbon Markets on the Global Stage: Delivering a Strong Pipeline of Projects, Capital and Transactions at Scale”. As scrutiny on carbon market integrity intensifies, Africa’s carbon assets are increasingly viewed as tools for financing development and strengthening economic sovereignty. “High‑quality carbon markets offer Africa a unique opportunity to translate its vast natural capital into tangible economic value – mobilising finance at scale while empowering countries to pursue development pathways that are both sustainable and sovereign,” said Maxwell Gomera, UNDP Resident Representative in South Africa and Director of the Africa Sustainable Finance Hub. Designed as a market‑enabling platform, CMAS 2026 focuses on alignment between policy, capital and delivery. “We are deliberately shifting the focus from readiness to delivery,” said Emmanuelle Nicholls, Group Director: Green Economy at VUKA Group, the Summit organisers. “CMAS brings policy, capital and projects into the same space to support real transactions and long‑term market credibility.” The programme includes Article 6 and CORSIA workshops, investor and buyer roundtables, curated project presentations, deal rooms and solution‑labs addressing key bottlenecks such as early‑stage finance, MRV capacity and authorisation in practice. Ministerial roundtable and targeted networking formats support coordination and commercial outcomes. Register: https://apo-opa.co/49Kcmpy Get involved: https://apo-opa.co/3R8m6DR
As global carbon markets shift from rule‑setting to real transactions, with Article 6 mechanisms advancing and compliance‑driven demand such as CORSIA coming into sharper focus, attention is turning to where credible supply and policy certainty can be delivered at scale. For Africa, this marks a transition from carbon market readiness to delivery.
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Strengthening Africa’s Export Finance Future

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he Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) (http://ICIEC.IsDB.org), a Shariah-based multilateral insurer and member of the Islamic Development Bank Group, and Oesterreichische Kontrollbank Aktiengesellschaft (OeKB), acting as agent of the Republic of Austria under the Export Guarantees Act, are pleased to announce  the signing of a Framework Reinsurance Agreement designed to expand...
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Fueling Africa’s Energy Industrial Rise

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The Africa Energy Forum returns from 16-19 June 2026, bringing together the companies, investors and governments driving Africa's move from energy access to industrial-scale infrastructure. The companies gathering in Cape Town are deploying capital into transmission infrastructure, building mining corridors that will define trade routes for decades, financing baseload capacity that can power heavy...
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KENYAN SPECIALTY TEA FARMERS GAIN DIRECT ACCESS TO PREMIUM GLOBAL MARKETS IN LANDMARK OFFTAKE DEAL

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Kenyan specialty tea farmers and  producers are set to gain direct access to premium international markets following the signing of a landmark offtake and promotional agreement in Nairobi ahead of the Africa Forward: Africa–France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth Summit - witnessed by both French President H.E Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President H.E Dr. William Ruto. The...
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Africa’s Financial Future Is Domestically Funded

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Africa’s development challenge is increasingly shifting from capital raising to productive capital deployment in infrastructure and industry, according to AFC's State of Africa’s Infrastructure Report 2026 Non-bank domestic capital pools now exceed US$2 trillion, surpassing ~US$1.7 trillion in cumulative external flows to Africa (2014–2024) Official development assistance fell from US$83.8 billion in 2020 to US$73.5 billion in 2023, with further declines expected for 2025–2026 Sovereign issuance dropped from over US$29 billion in 2018 to US$4–6 billion annually in 2022–2023, with only limited recovery through 2024–2025 Domestic pension and insurance assets crossed US$1 trillion for first time Central bank reserves at US$530 billion in 2025, from US$480 billion in 2024 Gold now represents ~17% of reserves, up from less than 10% in 2022–2023 Africa’s biggest infrastructure opportunity lies in integrated systems—connecting energy, transport, industry and digital layers into demand‑anchored ecosystems that improve bankability and enable scale Africa’s domestic capital base has reached a scale that now exceeds external financing flows over the past decade, marking a turning point in how the continent funds its growth and industrialisation, according to the Africa Finance Corporation’s (www.AfricaFC.org) State of Africa’s Infrastructure Report 2026. SAIR 2026 finds that cumulative external flows to Africa totalled approximately US$1.7 trillion between 2014 and 2024, while Africa’s non-bank domestic capital pools exceed US$2 trillion. The implication is clear: African capital now has a stronger foundation to play a significantly larger role in financing the continent’s development. Launched at The Africa We Build Summit in Nairobi, co-hosted by AFC and H.E. Dr William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, the SAIR 2026 report argues that the overarching development priority has shifted from capital mobilisation to intermediation—converting savings into infrastructure, industry, and productive investment at scale. “The constraint is no longer capital—it is intermediation," Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of AFC, said at the The Africa We Build Summit today. "We have the savings, but not yet the systems to channel them into infrastructure and industry at scale. Closing that gap is now Africa’s most important economic task. The next phase of Africa’s infrastructure story must move beyond standalone assets towards integrated systems." Local Capital on the Rise Driving the increase in domestic institutional capital, pension and insurance assets have surpassed US$1 trillion for the first time. Public development bank assets stand at US$276 billion, and sovereign wealth funds at US$164 billion, while central bank reserves increased from US$480 billion in 2024 to US$530 billion in 2025. This increase has been supported in part by stronger commodity dynamics and rising gold accumulation. Gold now represents approximately 17% of Africa’s total reserves, up from less than 10% in 2022–2023, while physical holdings rose from 663 tonnes in 2022 to an estimated 738 tonnes in 2025. Despite its increased scale, domestic capital remains largely concentrated in short-term, low-risk assets—particularly government securities—reflecting limited investable pipelines, regulatory incentives favouring liquidity, and insufficient risk-sharing mechanisms. The result is a persistent gap between available savings and long-term productive investment. External Financing Recedes At the same time, external financing is becoming less reliable, reinforcing the case for a domestic capital-led development model. Official development assistance to Africa fell from US$83.8 billion in 2020 to US$73.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to decline further. The OECD estimates global official development assistance fell 23.1% in 2025, the largest annual contraction on record. Sovereign issuance remains well below pre-2019 levels, falling from over US$29 billion in 2018 to US$4–6 billion annually in 2022–2023, while foreign direct investment has remained concentrated at roughly US$45–55 billion annually, insufficient to meet the continent’s broad investment needs. As a result, external capital is increasingly complementary, rather than foundational , to Africa’s development model. From Assets to Integrated Systems The biggest potential for capital deployment lies in demand-driven integrated infrastructure, according to SAIR 2026. In transport and logistics, corridors deliver the greatest value when designed as production ecosystems rather than transit routes—linking ports, rail, roads, logistics, storage, and trade facilitation to industrial demand. A continental backbone is already taking shape; the opportunity now is to improve performance, execution, and coordination. This is particularly evident in East Africa. Mombasa—one of Africa’s busiest ports—handles more than 45 million tonnes of cargo annually, while rail investments are extending connectivity inland, including along the Naivasha–Kisumu corridor. In aviation, SAIR 2026 identifies air transport as the most immediate and scalable lever for integration. Across Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, aviation contributes a combined US$5.5 billion to GDP and supports around one million jobs, demonstrating how connectivity can rapidly translate into trade and growth. Similarly, in energy, the priority is no longer incremental capacity additions alone, but integrated systems combining generation, transmission, storage, fuels, and industrial demand. Cross-border infrastructure such as the Ethiopia–Kenya interconnector shows how regional systems can move power to where it is needed most and improve system-wide efficiency. Resilience Gap Recent shocks—from Russia–Ukraine to the 2026 Gulf crisis—underscore the cost of fragmented systems and the urgency of building domestic processing, storage, and supply-chain resilience. The continent continues to import over 70% of its refined fuel and faces an estimated US$230 billion annual import bill across essential goods—including fuel, food, plastics, steel, and fertiliser, according to SAIR 2026. In digital infrastructure, while connectivity has expanded rapidly, the next opportunity lies in building the “missing middle”—terrestrial backbone networks, metro fibre, data centres, Internet Exchange Points, and enterprise platforms that convert connectivity into productivity, services exports, and job creation. Across all sectors and African countries, the report’s conclusion is consistent: the development challenge is increasingly institutional and systemic. Capital exists, and infrastructure assets are expanding. The next breakthrough will come from linking finance, energy, transport, industry, and digital systems into coherent ecosystems capable of supporting growth at scale. “Africa is not capital-poor—it is capital-rich but system-poor,” said Zubairu. “The priority must be to build the institutions, instruments, and project pipelines required to deploy that capital into infrastructure and industry at scale.”
Africa’s development challenge is increasingly shifting from capital raising to productive capital deployment in infrastructure and industry, according to AFC's State of Africa’s Infrastructure Report 2026 Non-bank domestic capital pools now exceed US$2 trillion, surpassing ~US$1.7 trillion in cumulative external flows to Africa (2014–2024) Official development assistance fell from US$83.8 billion in 2020 to US$73.5...
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Capture and control: Canon expands professional video ecosystem with ultra-telephoto Cinema zoom lens and Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ) controller

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Canon (www.Canon-CNA.com) announces two additions to its professional cinema and AV lineups: the CN30×40 IAS J R1/P1 ultra-telephoto cinema zoom lens (https://apo-opa.co/4egKrku) with a new updated drive unit and the RC‑IP300 multi-camera PTZ controller (https://apo-opa.co/41YXW0L) . Designed for high-end filmmaking and live events, the new zoom will provide filmmakers with even more power and flexibility, while the new controller offers an entry-level route into multi-camera PTZ control. Both products strengthen Canon’s film and broadcast ecosystem with tools that deliver precise control and cinematic image quality. The CN30×40 IAS J R1/P1 brings exceptional reach and optical performance to wildlife filmmakers and live productions. Featuring an ultra-telephoto 30x zoom range of 40-1200mm or 60-1800mm with extender, the lens provides native Super35mm coverage, and the renowned optical quality associated with Canon cinema lenses, enabling detailed 4K and 8K imagery – even from extreme distances. A new drive unit further enhances operability and functionality for professional applications, with features such as focus breathing correction, improved servo control, an info display and USB Type-C terminal for easy setup and maintenance. With a 1.5x extender, the lens increases focal reach while enabling full-frame coverage, offering filmmakers additional creative flexibility. Despite its powerful range, it remains comparatively light for its class and is built with a rugged construction suited to demanding environments such as wildlife hides, stadium gantries and remote production locations. Advanced autofocus and subject-tracking capabilities, combined with Canon’s Focus Guide, help operators maintain precise and accurate focus in fast-moving scenes. Canon is also introducing the RC‑IP300, a compact yet powerful PTZ controller built for modern multi-camera productions. Designed to enable single operators to manage complex camera setups, the controller controls up to 200 cameras, organises them into groups and stores up to 100 presets per camera for instant recall and repeatable shot framing. The controller features a 3.5-inch touchscreen preview, IP video inputs and an intuitive layout of joystick, touchscreen and programmable controls that streamline operation in broadcast studios, lecture halls and corporate production environments. Support for Canon’s PTZ Auto Tracking application and integration with tools such as Stream Deck further enhances workflow efficiency and automation. Together, these launches demonstrate Canon’s continued commitment to evolving production demands, from cinematic long-range storytelling to scalable IP-based multi-camera workflows. By combining advanced optics with intelligent control systems, Canon continues to develop its ever-expanding ecosystem of tools that enable creators and production teams to capture and control content with precision and creative freedom. CN30×40 IAS J R1/P1 (https://apo-opa.co/4egKrku) – key highlights Unrivalled 4K/8K optics with minimal flare and organic colour Powerful 30x focal range 40-1200mm or 60-1800mm with extender Native Super35mm, with 1.5x extender to increase reach and cover full frame sensors Portable and built for the field, light for its class, providing exceptional coverage RF or PL Mount data support with lens metadata capture for Zeiss eXtended dataTM and Cooke/iTM technology Advanced Autofocus with support for Dual Pixel AF II Auto Exposure Ramping Compensation to keep consistent brightness throughout the zoom range New drive unit with focus breathing correction, improved servo, info display and USB-C RC‑IP300 (https://apo-opa.co/41YXW0L) – key highlights Compact and control‑room ready, fitting studios, classrooms, and mobile setups Single‑operator control with intuitive joystick, touchscreen, and preset selections Scale up to 200 cameras with centralised control of multi‑cam setups Up to 100 presets per camera with instant, repeatable shots and moves 3.5" touchscreen preview with on‑board monitoring for quick checks and framing IP video inputs for streamlined networking, fewer cables, and enhanced workflows Supports Canon applications such as Auto Tracking and Auto Loop
Canon (www.Canon-CNA.com) announces two additions to its professional cinema and AV lineups: the CN30×40 IAS J R1/P1 ultra-telephoto cinema zoom lens (https://apo-opa.co/4egKrku) with a new updated drive unit and the RC‑IP300 multi-camera PTZ controller (https://apo-opa.co/41YXW0L) . Designed for high-end filmmaking and live events, the new zoom will provide filmmakers with even more power and flexibility, while the new controller offers an entry-level route...
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Infinix Smart 20: The smart choice for Kenya’s everyday hustlers

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Pure voice calls: Turn noise into business In real life, business doesn’t happen in quiet rooms. It happens in busy streets, markets, and on the move. The SMART20 is built for this reality with Pure Voice Calls powered by Voiceprint Noise Reduction, ensuring your voice cuts through background noise clearly. Whether you’re closing a deal or coordinating daily tasks, every conversation remains sharp and uninterrupted, allowing you to communicate with confidence wherever you are. Military-grade durability: Tough enough to survive The SMART 20 is engineered with military-grade durability, meaning it’s designed to withstand the kind of rough, unpredictable conditions users face every day. With up to 1.5 metres drop resistance, the device can survive accidental falls onto hard surfaces without cracking or failing, giving users confidence in high-movement environments. Beyond drops, the phone is built with a reinforced structure and strengthened screen, allowing it to handle pressure and impact better than typical smartphones. In practical terms, it’s tough enough to handle extreme scenarios – even being used to tap a small nail into a wooden surface without damaging the screen, showcasing its structural strength and resilience. Additionally, with IP64 water and dust resistance, the SMART 20 is protected against splashes, light rain, and dust exposure, making it reliable in outdoor and work-heavy environments. Power marathon: Energy that keeps you going Long days require a phone that can keep up. Equipped with a 5200mAh endurable battery, the SMART20 is built for extended use without constant charging. Even at just five percent battery, users can enjoy up to 2 hours of continuous calling or up to 24 hours on standby, ensuring you stay connected when it matters most. It’s power designed for those who don’t stop, and need a device that won’t either. A shift towards practical innovation Across Kenya, consumers are increasingly choosing products that deliver real value. Technology is no longer just a lifestyle accessory but a tool for productivity and growth. Powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 Ultimate, the SMART20 delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks, communication, and content consumption. It strikes a balance between affordability, durability, and efficiency, aligning with the realities of daily life. Built for real life The SMART20 is designed to perform where it matters the most. Despite its strength, the phone maintains a 7.7mm ultra-slim design, combining comfort with durability. It features IP64 water and dust resistance, and can withstand drops of up to 1.5 metres, making it reliable in unpredictable conditions. Additionally, the UltraLink feature enables offline communication up to 1km, offering connectivity even in areas with limited network access. The SMART20 enhances everyday experience with a 6.78-inch punch-hole screen and a 120Hz smooth display, delivering clear visuals and fluid interaction whether for work or entertainment. A phone for everyday achievers For many, the SMART20 reflects their journey. From entrepreneurs managing businesses on the go to young professionals balancing responsibilities, it fits seamlessly into demanding lifestyles. It is a phone for people who don’t show off –but get things done. Product availability The SMART20 is available in four colours:Sunlike Orange, Shadow Black, Polaris Titanium and Cloudline Blue. It is available in: 8GB + 64GB at Ksh12,499 RRP 8GB + 128GB at Ksh13,999 RRP Redefining smart The SMART20 is helping redefine what it means to be smart in today’s Kenya. It is not about owning the most expensive device. Rather, it is about owning one that works for you. Because in the end, it’s not about what you show but what you build. Hashtags: #TheSmartestPhone #SMART20Challenge About Infinix Established in 2013, Infinix is an innovation-driven brand dedicated to delivering cutting-edge technology, bold design, and outstanding performance. The brand provides smart, enjoyable mobile experiences that enhance everyday life. Beyond smartphones, Infinix has expanded its portfolio to include TWS earbuds, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and more, building a comprehensive ecosystem of smart devices. Currently, Infinix products are available in over 70 countries and regions worldwide, including Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. For more information, please visit: http://ke.infinixmobility.com/
In a country where ambition is high, but opportunities are often limited, a new mindset is shaping how Kenyans define success. It is no longer about showing off. It is about building, growing, and making smart decisions that move life forward. This thinking drives the launch of the Infinix SMART20, a device now referred...
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African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Launches Artificial intelligence (AI) and Data Center Platform

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African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Launches Artificial intelligence (AI) and Data Center Platform, Bridging Africa’s Digital and Energy Transformation
The African Energy Week (AEW) Conference and Exhibition - taking place October 12-16 in Cape Town - will host the first-ever AI and Data Center Track, positioning the continent at the intersection of digital infrastructure expansion and energy system transformation. Led by the African Energy Chamber (AEC), the track is designed as a platform to align policymakers,...
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50 Days to FIFA World Cup 2026™ The Countdown is ON!

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With just 50 days to go, the world stands on the brink of football’s most anticipated spectacle - the FIFA World Cup 2026™. This milestone represents more than a countdown; it signals a rare opportunity for discerning clients, corporate leaders, and high-net-worth individuals to secure privileged access to football’s biggest global event. On Location, appointed by FIFA as the Official Hospitality Provider of the tournament, is proud to affirm that Integral has been appointed as the Exclusive Sales Agent in Nigeria for the official hospitality programme. Through this exclusive mandate, Integral offers official, ticket-inclusive hospitality packages designed to elevate every moment of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. From premium seating and private suites to exceptional culinary experiences, world-class service, and sophisticated lounge environments, each offering is curated for those who value access, comfort, and distinction. Whether hosting high-value clients, strengthening strategic relationships, or simply experiencing the tournament at an elite level, these hospitality experiences provide the ultimate platform to engage, entertain, and inspire. With only 50 days remaining, availability across hospitality packages is expected to be extremely limited, with global demand already accelerating. While there may be offers of unauthorized ticket-inclusive hospitality packages on unofficial platforms, On Location is the only official hospitality provider of the FIFA World Cup 26™ and https://FIFAWorldCup26.Hospitality.FIFA.com/ is the only official hospitality sales page. Hospitality packages and tickets sourced from unofficial sales channels may not be valid. Authorized global sales agents are published and will be continually updated at https://FIFAWorldCup26.Hospitality.FIFA.com/. Integral invites its distinguished clientele to act decisively - secure your official FIFA World Cup 2026™ hospitality package today and guarantee your place at the heart of the action. Be match-ready. Be part of history. Moments like this won’t wait. To reserve your preferred package, including shared lounges or private suites connect with Integral via: www.IntegralSande.com or Call/WhatsApp: +2348093677272, +2348168039329
With just 50 days to go, the world stands on the brink of football’s most anticipated spectacle - the FIFA World Cup 2026™. This milestone represents more than a countdown; it signals a rare opportunity for discerning clients, corporate leaders, and high-net-worth individuals to secure privileged access to football’s biggest global event. On Location,...
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