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Government of Alberta invests in CCS knowledge sharing hub to advance carbon capture and storage projects across Canada and around the world

Regina, Sask. and Calgary, Alta., April 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The world's first open–source repository of knowledge and information about the development of carbon capture and storage (CCS/CCUS) projects will be established by the International CCS Knowledge Centre (Knowledge Centre) with foundational support from the Government of Alberta.

As a key action item included in Alberta's Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan released April 19, 2023, the Government of Alberta is providing $3 million for the creation of a national CCS knowledge sharing hub that will be an important tool for Canada to meet its ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The mandate of the CCS knowledge sharing hub will be to collect and curate best practices and lessons learned from Canadian CCS projects past, present and future "" drawing on knowledge from as many projects as possible from initial planning and feasibility studies, through to construction and ongoing operations "" to enhance the success of CCS projects and promote continuous learning and improvement in CCS technology. Expansion of CCS is also a crucial step for creating and maintaining vital jobs in all heavy emitting sectors provincially and nationally in such areas as cement, iron and steel, power generation, petrochemicals, fertilizer, and oil and gas.

"Bringing large–scale CCS projects to life at the speed and scale that is required to reach net–zero emissions by 2050 requires unprecedented collaboration between industry, government, academia and other partners. The most effective way of reducing risk, lowering costs and improving performance of these multi–billion–dollar infrastructure projects is to share our proven expertise and apply the experience gained across heavy–emitting industries in order to build a sustainable future for all," said James Millar, president and chief executive officer of the International CCS Knowledge Centre.

"We are very grateful to the Government of Alberta for stepping up with this critical support, allowing us to launch the CCS knowledge sharing hub and ensure lessons learned from dozens of CCS projects planned across Canada are documented and made available to anyone who can benefit from them," Millar added. "I would be remiss in not singling out the strong leadership of Environment and Protected Areas Minister Sonya Savage in helping to ensure this initiative moves forward."

"Carbon capture and storage is a critical part of Alberta's path to achieving a net–zero economy. With projects such as the Quest CCS facility operated by Shell Canada, and the Alberta Carbon Trunk Line, we have led the world in developing CCUS facilities and proving the capability of this technology to drastically cut CO₂ emissions from the industries that are the bedrock of our economy and are the lifeblood of our communities. We look forward to working with the Knowledge Centre to ensure that Alberta and Canada remain at the forefront and capture the enormous opportunities that are before us as the world undertakes an aggressive expansion of CCS to curb rising emissions and address climate change," said Alberta's Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Sonya Savage.

The CCS knowledge sharing hub will be developed and operated by the International CCS Knowledge Centre to assess and identify best practices and frameworks to get CCS projects to final investment decision. Key to the initiative's long–term success will be coordination and proactive promotion of the sharing of knowledge on CCS gathered from companies large and small to ensure the timely and efficient transfer of CCS best practices across Alberta, Canada and the globe "" outcomes where industry and government jointly benefit. Sharing critical information on the development of projects from study stage into operation will greatly increase the transfer of crucial learnings, leading to better outcomes and inevitably a greater level of CO₂ emission reductions in Canada.

At a global level, the world can't afford not to pursue large–scale CCS as a key tool for meeting international climate commitments. The International Energy Agency and the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) have concluded a massive investment in large–scale CCS is required in order to achieve the emissions reductions needed to meet the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global warming to 2 C. The IPCC's Fifth Assessment Synthesis Report Summary for Policy Makers forecast that the cost of climate mitigation would increase by 138 per cent without the application of CCS technologies.

Background:

The International CCS Knowledge Centre provides independent consultation and technical advisory services on large–scale CCS projects around the world, including a number of Alberta companies pursuing CCS projects as part of their long–term sustainability plans, including:

Completing the feasibility study (with funding provided by Emissions Reduction Alberta) and supporting front–end engineering and design (FEED) planning for the world's first full–scale CCS facility on a cement plant at Heidelberg Materials' Edmonton plant.

Supporting early–stage engineering work on CCS projects planned by several members of the Pathways Alliance, a coalition of the six largest oil sands producers that is planning to invest more than $24 billion in CCS and other emissions reduction technologies by the end of the decade in order to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

Partnering with Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) to provide successful applicants of the ERA's Carbon Capture Kickstart with up to 200 hours of support on their pre–construction design and engineering studies for carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) projects, with funding provided by ERA. The 11 successful projects represent an estimated $20 billion in capital expenditures in a wide range of industrial sectors, including power generation, cement, fertilizer, forest products and oil and gas.

About the International CCS Knowledge Centre
The International CCS Knowledge Centre is a non–profit organization founded in 2016 by BHP and SaskPower to advance large–scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects as a critical means of managing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving the world's ambitious climate goals.

The Knowledge Centre provides independent, expert advisory services for CCS projects across heavy–emitting industries based on our team's unique experience developing the world's first fully integrated post–combustion CCS facility on a coal–fired power plant. We have a proven track record of helping our clients lower costs, reduce risk and improve the performance of CCS projects across industries and technology platforms using the latest knowledge and lessons learned from major projects across the globe.

We also provide input to policy development and promote broad collaboration between stakeholders to enhance understanding of the critical role CCS plays in global decarbonization efforts and accelerate the deployment of new CCS projects around the world.

Learn more at ccsknowledge.com

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8827721)

Denmark takes first place in second annual World Citizenship Report, global ‘powerhouses’ lose their lustre among the mass affluent

London, United Kingdom, April 20, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Denmark, Switzerland and Finland took the top three spots in the 2023 World Citizenship Report, which launched today. The World Citizenship Report ranks 188 countries across five key motivators defining citizenship for the global citizen.

Published by CS Global Partners, the world's leading government and investment migration advisory firm, the World Citizenship Report showcases the World Citizenship Index (WCI), an innovative tool that takes a holistic approach to rank the world's citizenships across multiple dimensions including the motivators of Safety and Security, Quality of Life, Economic Opportunity, Global Mobility and Financial Freedom.

The World Citizenship Index is the product of a research–driven approach that goes beyond ordinary concepts of passport strength by placing greater emphasis on the diverse attitudes regarding key facets of citizenship. Unlike other rating tools, the World Citizenship Index ranking is designed to reflect a citizenship's value through the lens of high–net–worth–individuals (HNWIs) and the newest generation of global citizens: the mass affluent population.

"This year, we looked beyond HNWIs and extended our survey to the new mass affluent, a globally mobile generation who is providing fresh impetus for a renewed drive towards global citizenship. As the world around continues to change at an exponential rate, bringing with it new crises and opportunities "" individuals across the globe are increasingly calling their own citizenships into question in terms of the safety, freedoms, and the prosperity they provide," said Micha Emmett, CEO of CS Global Partners.

"This Report stands apart from other reports in the industry because it examines which countries offer the most benefits for global citizens, particularly in a post–COVID world where those that have the means are consistently searching for greater opportunities.”

This year, Denmark kicked Switzerland out of the top spot and scored the highest points. Switzerland ranked in second place and Finland retained the third spot for a second year in a row.

Notably, global superpowers such as the United States and China did not rank in the top ten, symbolising a significant shift in what these economic giants can tangibly offer the global elite. HNWIs and mass affluent citizens are searching for a better quality of life, security and financial freedoms, all aspects which have been on shaky ground since the pandemic.

The surveyed cohort chose "Quality of Life' as the most important feature of citizenship, which ranked first across the World Citizenship Index's five pillars, eclipsing both Physical Safety and Financial Freedom.

The Report found that a competitive economy, public services, and environmental sustainability are the three areas mass affluent individuals feel most let down by their governments."

We are unfortunately living through a period where the standard of living is falling at the fastest rate in over a generation. At the end of 2022, the UK Office for Budget Responsibility reported that UK households are set to suffer a 7.1 per cent fall in living standards over the next two years, the largest decline in six decades. Furthermore, according to the latest United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report published in the same period, living conditions in 90 per cent of the world's countries deteriorated in 2021 "" something that hasn't been seen since the height of the previous global recession caused by the financial crisis in 2007. Moreover, the UNDP report marked the first consecutive year of decline in the 32–year history of the Human Development Index (HDI) "" these trends are reflected in the current World Citizenship Index scores. For example, the United States dropped to 29th position for the Quality–of–Life motivator from 20th position previously, which shows how living standards are coming under pressure even in the world's economic powerhouses.

“The World Citizenship Report aims to capture what truly concerns and affects a global citizen,” added Emmet. “When there are options to gain a second or third citizenship, the first question in a HNWIs mind is 'where is the next place to be associated with?'”

“High–net–worth individuals and the mass affluent must consider a myriad of factors when deciding something as monumental as where to obtain second citizenship and build a second home. While passport strength is, of course, an important component, it is also one that is subject to the greatest change as evidenced by pandemic related travel restrictions,” she added.

As many parts of the globe recover from COVID–19 and find means to bolster their economies, a new chain of threats has emerged. The conflict in the Ukraine has not only made many nations in the northern hemisphere realise just how fragile the concept of safety and freedom is but has severely impacted energy and food security across the world.

With so much change happening so rapidly around us, it can be challenging to keep up with how all these disparate factors coming to bear on the prevailing attitudes toward global citizenship. And this is where the value of the World Citizenship Report comes into the picture. The Report continues to build on its reputation as an ambitious product reflecting the evolving nature of these attitudes toward citizenship, and one that is in tune with the defining issues of our time with respect to global citizens, including health and wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and shifting investment priorities.

The World Citizenship Index's unique methodology relies on the experience gained through CS Global Partners unparalleled work in the citizenship solutions industry, as well as comprehensive research to evaluate 188 jurisdictions across the five motivators of citizenship out of a maximum attainable score of 100 points.

The Report's multidimensional approach ensured that the attitudes under investigation were captured as accurately and meaningfully as possible. Consequently, rather than relying exclusively on value judgments to construct and weight the World Citizenship Index, CS Global Partners also leveraged its unparalleled network of industry experts and access to global citizens to isolate the major motivations for attaining a second citizenship. These factors were then further explored and validated by surveying the global mass affluent population on the value of second citizenship.

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8812232)

Ethiopia and the Netherlands Endorse the Launch of a Groundbreaking Private Sector Water Management Initiative by Nedamco Africa to Improve Water Needs for Over 10 Million People

“In a joint press statement today, the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, along with their partners, endorsed the launch by Nedamco Africa of an innovative initiative to implement Water Management through a fully digital approach. This groundbreaking endeavor has the potential to significantly improve the water quality, facilitate direct access, and increase the availability of water volumes for approximately 10 million individuals residing in the metropolitan area of Addis Ababa.”

NEW YORK, March 24, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today at the UN23 Water Conference in New York, H.E. Dr. Eng. Habtamu Itefa Geleta, Minister for the Ministry of Water and Energy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, and Kitty van der Heijden, Director–General International Cooperation at Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, endorsed the launch of the Ethiopian SDG6 Water Management initiative. The initiative has the aim to improve the water needs of millions of people and will be based on digitally verifiable outcomes focused on the reduction of non–revenue water, increase of water quality, increased access to water, and higher availability of water. In a "first–ever", leveraging the latest available technologies, the solution will measure, report, and verify outcomes of Water Management, starting in Addis Ababa, a city of 10 million inhabitants, starting in a sub–set of the city, using Digital Twins in a fully digital and transparent manner. This project is a collaboration of the Ethiopian local and federal government and multiple innovators in the profit and non–profit sectors like Microsoft, Bentley Systems, Deltares and VEI. The launch is endorsed by the Dutch Government. The SDG6 Water Management initiative has the potential to be rolled out to over nineteen other countries in fifty–five cities, improving the water needs of half a billion people.

Changing lives "" African water challenges "" In this era of climate disruption, African cities are grappling with a plethora of water–related challenges that are impacting the lives of their residents. The lack of infrastructure and investment is one of the main obstacles, resulting in restricted access to clean and safe water for many people. In addition, water pollution and contamination are prevalent, especially in informal settlements where residents have limited means of obtaining clean water. Furthermore, climate change and rising water demand are putting additional pressure on already scarce water resources, compounding the existing water challenges in African cities. These challenges must be addressed with innovative and sustainable solutions that improve access to safe water and ensure the long–term sustainability of water resources.

“We Africans are highly affected by the carbon emission released by the developed nations, and we are way behind to achieve the SDGs with the current pace unless we deploy new technologies and innovations. By synergizing the vision and mission of the two most committed and robust partners on the planet, along with the latest digital technologies available for water management at scale, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to transform the daily lives of hundreds of millions of people in Africa, who are suffering a lot in search of clean water. Therefore, call to action for Africans to join for cooperation and integration to transform the lives of our citizens,” stated H.E. Dr. Eng. Habtamu Itefa Geleta, Minister for the Ministry of Water and Energy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

True impact through results–based financing "" The parties are adopting a results–based financing approach. Through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the use of innovative technologies and best practices, we aim to unite the world around water and pool global resources and expertise. The innovative solution, jointly developed by Dutch and international water eco–system players will help us overcome the water challenges that we face worldwide. The SDG6 Water Management initiative will ensure that partnerships between governments, businesses, and civil society are forged, leading to sustainable and equitable use of water that benefits all.

“Water management is at the heart of our nation's identity. We have been facing the challenges of water for centuries, and through collaboration and innovation, we have found ways to turn these challenges into opportunities. In the Netherlands, I am proud to say that we have a long history of working together to manage our water resources. From our world–renowned systems of dykes and pumps, to our innovative approaches to water treatment and reuse, we have shown that it is possible to turn the challenges of water into opportunities for progress and prosperity. By working together, the world can do the same. Together, we can build a future where everyone has access to the clean water they need to thrive, where our rivers and lakes are protected from pollution and overuse, and where we are able to adapt to the changing demands of a rapidly changing world,” said Kitty van der Heijden, Director–General International Cooperation at Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

Technology for good – Digital twin technology has the potential to significantly enhance water management in Africa, leading to better outcomes for communities in need. By creating a virtual replica of physical assets, such as water distribution systems, digital twins can be used to analyze, monitor, and optimize water usage and distribution in real–time. This, in turn, can lead to more efficient and effective management of water resources, reducing waste and improving water security. Digital twin technology can also help detect and prevent water leaks and other issues, thereby enhancing the access to clean water for communities, which is especially critical in areas with water scarcity. Additionally, digital twin technology can aid in the development of new water infrastructure projects, such as reservoirs, by simulating and assessing these projects in a virtual environment. This approach can provide valuable insights into the potential impact and effectiveness of these projects, reducing the risk of failure and improving outcomes.

Anke den Ouden, General Manager of Microsoft Netherlands, stated, “The introduction of digital twin technology in water management has the potential to significantly improve access to clean water and water security in Africa. It can optimize water usage and distribution, leading to a better quality of life for people in the region. We at Microsoft are proud to be a part of this initiative.”

Impact Investments for a better world – Nedamco Africa is a company that invests in, and is fully committed to making a positive impact on Africa and the global environment. They recognize the crucial role that water management plays in the sustainability of the continent and are focused on finding innovative solutions to the challenges facing Africa's water supply. Nedamco Africa's investment strategy prioritizes the measurement of impact over financial returns, emphasizing sustainable solutions that benefit the environment and communities in Africa. They invest in cutting–edge technologies, such as cloud skills, digital twins, and climate–friendly solutions to create a lasting positive impact. In water management, Nedamco Africa is working to improve access to safe drinking water, reduce water waste, and promote water conservation. Nedamco Africa is a driving force for impact investments that contribute to creating a better world for everyone.

Michael Kogeler, CEO of Nedamco Africa, expressed, “With a complete commitment to Africa and the planet, Nedamco Africa is at the forefront of impact investments that prioritize sustainability and positive impact. Our emphasis on innovative technologies and measurement of the impact of our investments is driving positive change and creating a better future for Africa and the world.”

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b5195295–2181–4470–8e4c–80fb8959bc4e

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1000800016)

Open Society Announces $1.7 Million to Support Middle East and North Africa Debt Swap for Sustainable Development

Amman, March 15, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Open Society Foundations today announced that they are giving $1.7 million to a United Nations initiative in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) that seeks to catalyze increased public spending on achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals by negotiating reduced national debt service payments. Importantly, the initiative provides a channel for MENA civil society organizations to have a voice about where such kinds of innovative financing is needed most.

The two–and–a–half–year project partnership, which will last from April 2023 through September 2025, will support work by the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) with interested member states and civil society to identify investment projects that prioritize the most urgent needs of MENA societies. ESCWA will support member states in reaching agreements with their creditors to redirect scheduled debt service payments into sustainable local investments.

An emphasis on robust project monitoring and evaluation provides an incentive to creditors who are ready to deliver on their own commitments to climate and sustainable development goals financing in MENA. The initiative is further strengthened by the role of ESCWA's Advisory Committee, made up of experts with experience implementing debt swaps and providing economic policy advice on inclusive growth in other parts of the world.

Heavily indebted MENA countries have pressing financing needs to address climate adaptation and sustainable development goals, while struggling to recover from fallouts of the COVID–19 pandemic and repercussions of the war in Ukraine, including growing food insecurity. As middle–income countries, they are both excluded from debt relief frameworks and find it difficult to access the financing they need.

The combined public debt burden of Arab countries was $1.5 trillion, equivalent to about 54 percent of the region's GDP in 2021. In addition, the Arab region continues to suffer disproportionately from climate change and 90 percent of the population resides in water–scarce countries. Conflicts in the region have devastated institutions and infrastructure and some 66 million persons in Arab countries affected by conflict are dependent on humanitarian aid.

"The ESCWA initiative is a win–win strategy for all stakeholders involved," said Issandr Amrani, executive director for Open Society""Middle East and North Africa. "As a multilateral institution with a commitment to human rights and civil society engagements, ESCWA provides a new opportunity for civil society to engage with governments on borrowing, spending, and development priorities. Open Society is committed to backing innovative projects that can help deliver economic justice."

Yamide Dagnet, Open Society's director for Climate Justice, added: "Climate disruption poses exponential risks to MENA's economic and political challenges. Open Society's pro–climate and fiscal–forward support can pave the way for catalytic investment in a just and inclusive climate transformation. From spurring dynamic and higher quality, green new employment opportunities that spark optimism among youth, women, and other marginalized communities, to addressing adaptation issues such as water scarcity that risks amplifying conflict. The fiscal space and just opportunities this pledge creates expands how we must put climate justice into action."

Open Society's president announced the launch of the grant during a high–level plenary session of the Arab Forum on Sustainable Development in Beirut, Lebanon, on March 15, 2023.

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8789008)

U.N. Member States Remove Islamic Republic of Iran from Commission on the Status of Women

NEW YORK, Dec. 14, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

This fall, a coalition of Iranian women, along with Vital Voices Global Partnership and For Freedoms launched a campaign calling for the immediate removal of the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI) from the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) after the tragic death of Mahsa Jina Amini and ensuing protests. The following is a statement issued by the group in response to today's vote by the Commission in favor of the IRI's removal:

Today the United Nations and its Member States heeded the call of Iranian women to remove the Islamic Republic of Iran from the U.N. Commission on the Status of Women. Earlier this year, to the dismay of women's rights advocates around the world, the Islamic Republic began a second four"'year term on the 45"'member entity that serves as the preeminent global body dedicated to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment. The final decision included 29 Member States voting in favor of removing the Islamic Republic of Iran from the Commision.

Today's vote marks a pivotal step forward with the U.N. Member States removing a country from the Commission with an appalling record on women's rights from its membership. Every day that the Islamic Republic of Iran was a member of the Commission on the Status of Women, the body lost credibility.

As we previously stated in an open letter published in The New York Times, the IRI's long"'standing, systematic oppression of women and the absence of tangible improvements after decades of engagement, should have disqualified them from election to the Commission on the Status of Women.

Yesterday, Iranian women currently imprisoned inside the notorious Evin prison came out with tremendous courage in listing their names in support of this effort.

For decades, gender inequality and discrimination against women have been legally enshrined in the IRI. Under the regime's penal code and other laws and regulations, Iranian women's rights are severely restricted in marriage, divorce, inheritance and custody. In addition, they must comply with the IRI's mandatory hijab laws from the onset of puberty.

Yet, the IRI was elected to the Commission on the Status of Women.

Today, we commend the Member States for upholding their duty to mandate and defend values that support gender equality and for standing on the right side of history by showing their outrage in the face of blatant state violence.

This is a critical moment for leaders in the international community to continue to vocally and unequivocally demonstrate their support for women's rights by standing in solidarity with Iranian women and girls.

In solidarity with Iranian women and girls who are courageously demonstrating for their fundamental human rights, we condemn the brutal violence against peaceful protesters and the violence at the forceful hands of the Islamic Republic's regime that includes executions, targeted attacks on women's bodies, sham trials, mass imprisonment, sexual assault, beatings and torture.

To world leaders who are watching, we urge you to continue to meet the courage of the women leading this revolution and act within your realm of power and influence in favor of women's rights, fairness and equality.

To the Iranian women who are on the ground continuing to fight tirelessly for basic human rights, we will continue to listen to you, support you, and boldly move in ways that provoke justice, fairness and equality for you and all women, all life and all freedom.

In Solidarity,

– Coalition of Iranian women leaders alongside Vital Voices and For Freedoms
www.womenlifefreedom.today

Visual Assets Available for Use: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqiBdtq2nnI

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8714699)

St Kitts and Nevis – the perfect choice for astute investors concerned about global instability

BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Oct. 11, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The world is changing and is at an unpredictable place. The aftermath of the global pandemic has plagued the world with instability and many people are looking for options to escape the challenges and restrictions imposed by their countries of origin. At some point in life, almost everyone has fantasized about escaping from their highly stressed lives to live in the peaceful and calm surroundings of a beautiful island. Making this dream a reality is now more accessible than ever before as the world rallies to recover from the devastation caused by the Covid–19 pandemic.

Instability caused by political conflict or malfunctioning societies has been experienced by both developing and developed countries. With the world in crisis and a number of protectionist regimes gaining power, exacerbated by tightening of borders and increased measures to prevent flight out of capitals, people feel like their freedom is under threat. In these situations, looking to relocate to a different country while seeking peace and stability is neither a far–fetched thought nor a selfish act. Families and entrepreneurs who have both the resources and the will to relocate to a different country, seeking better opportunities and living conditions for themselves and their families, are one of the most well–suited groups for investing in CBI programmes offered by a number of countries throughout the world.

St Kitts and Nevis, located in the Eastern Caribbean, is one of the most sought–after destinations when it comes to travel and tourism. But in addition to that, the country is home to the world's first and one of the most trusted Citizenship by Investment Programmes. With a stable, safe and peaceful environment, it is a welcome space for those who choose to make it their home.

The CBI Programme of St Kitts and Nevis was launched in 1984 and has been the pride of the Caribbean ever since. The idyllic islands' stunning natural beauty, rich history, and friendly locals make it a perfect destination for people looking for the traditional Caribbean experience.

The island nation in the western hemisphere has become a favourite destination for wealthy people from countries in East Africa, and it is especially attractive to High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) globally.

East Africa includes a diversified set of nations, with these countries not only home to many HNWIs, but also a wide range of issues that might cause internal conflict or instability. At least three East African nations, including Kenya, are among the seven most populous nations on the continent, thus making the area into one of the fastest–growing populations in the world.

However, at the same time, the East–African region is plagued with a number of concerns, which make the area less desirable. Over the last few years, East Africa has experienced insecurity, a lack of stability and good governance. The nations in the East Africa have, for a long time, struggled to cope with and resolve some major security concerns such as security breaches, widespread terrorism, and disputes. With these challenges individuals question whether their home country is the ideal environment to raise a family, start a business or invest ones wealth.

High Net Worth Individuals residing in such a political area often find it easier and more comfortable to switch to a more peaceful and stable nation. The friendly and peaceful shores of St Kitts and Nevis are an ideal destination for individuals seeking a respite from the chaos of the world.

St Kitts and Nevis is jointly managed via the efforts of the Governor–General, who is the crown's official representative in the country, along with the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, and the Premier, who is responsible for overseeing the management and administration of Nevis Island.

The distribution of power between the three entities who are answerable to the people of the federation, ensures that there is a fair distribution of power amongst the representative entities. As a result, St Kitts and Nevis is able to provide a politically stable home to those who seek to invest in the CBI Programme of the country to attain alternative citizenship.

The country has a deep–rooted history which has been passed down through generations of people who lived on the islands and has for generations attracted historians and enthusiasts of history to its shores.

The CBI Programme of St Kitts and Nevis provides an opportunity to obtain alternative citizenship for the investor and their family. An investor's spouse, children, parents and siblings are eligible for citizenship along with the investor. Another benefit is that once a person has citizenship of St Kitts and Nevis, children can inherit citizenship from their parents.

Many countries all over the world have been dubbed insensitive and non–inclusive of a certain group of people; accordingly, people find it hard at times to ensure their safety and the safety of their families. St Kitts and Nevis is a country of inclusivity and provides citizens with a place they can live their life the way they want without the fear of discrimination. St Kitts and Nevis is known for its welcoming and warm nature to all those who grace its shores, whether for tourism or citizenship.

As one of the oldest CBI programmes on offer in the Caribbean, St Kitts and Nevis has been recognised several times as the best running CBI Programme in the world. In 2022 the Professional Wealth Management Magazine, a publication of the Financial Times, ranked it jointly as the number one programme in the 2022 CBI Index Report. Amongst others it was recognised for its "Ease of Processing" and "Due Diligence" Pillars.

In a time when the world is less certain than ever before and where a growing number of people are considering their options, relocating to St Kitts and Nevis to enjoy the peace, stability and opportunities afforded by the country seems to be the perfect option for a number of high net worth individuals, for economic, financial, political and social reasons.

Alternative citizenship of St Kitts and Nevis emerges as a platform to alleviate the risk of uncertainty and works as an insurance policy. There is no better plan than having the option to set up a new home and escape to a better lifestyle.

Like every other person on the planet, people from East Africa require alternative citizenship to protect their families and in a secure and stable environment. It offers peace of mind in an uncertain world "" it's the perfect backup plan (Plan B).

Contact Information:
St Kitts and Nevis PR
pr@csglobalpartners.com
T: (1–869) 467 1474

Dominica paves clear path to climate resiliency amid climate-related disasters

ROSEAU, Dominica, Sept. 26, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The climate crisis is real. Several severe weather patterns are confirming this.

Take Pakistan, the scale of the recent deadly flooding in that country is staggering to say the least. Floods triggered by early monsoon rains began in June and remained intense throughout the season. A full one–third of Pakistan is underwater""an amount of land that exceeds the total area of the United Kingdom. More than 30 million people or 15 percent of the population have been affected – 1,200 people have lost their lives and half a million are homeless.

After Hurricane Maria left an estimated 90 percent of buildings damaged or destroyed in Dominica in 2019, the small Caribbean Island of just 70,000 has been on a clear path to become the first climate–resilient nation by 2030.

According to Germanwatch's 2021 Global Climate Risk Index "" an Index that analyses to what extent countries and regions have been affected by impacts of weather–related loss event "" Dominica ranked 11th out of 150 countries at risk based on an analysis of extreme weather events between 2000 and 2019. Two factors were cited for Dominica: the impact of global warming on rising sea levels that increase the risk of storm surges, and the increase in the strength of hurricanes. Dominica is at risk to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, floods and landslides, and hurricanes.

The Prime Minister of Dominica, Dr Roosevelt Skerrit, has been an advocate and voice for sustainability, urging nations across the globe to implement serious and tangible measures to deal with global warming as they impact smaller nations more acutely.

He recently conveyed his condolences over material and human losses caused by the floods in Pakistan and again called upon the international community to stand together to act against climate change in order to mitigate its often–deadly consequences. He said, “Together, we must ensure a better future for our coming generations.”

Taking to Twitter he stated, “The Commonwealth of Dominica stands in solidarity with Pakistan at this time of crisis. Climate change is destroying the world, and it is now our time to take responsible actions.”

Dominica is leading the fight against climate change, and the government continues to invest in new projects and programmes to achieve their goal of resiliency and having the strength to fight back when catastrophic events occur.

This year marks five years since Dominica witnessed the deadliest Hurricane Maria.

Dominica's objective to become resilient by 2030 needs around EC$4 billion to EC$5 billion in funding and around 40 percent of that funding could come from funds generated through the country's citizenship by investment programme.

In response to the destruction caused by Hurricane Maria, Dominica launched a climate resilience policy framework to help guide its recovery journey in the form of the National Resilience Development Strategy 2030 (NRDS). The NRDS speaks to the overall policy framework of the government and summaries 43 resilience goals desired to assure that development is people centred.

The Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan of Dominica aims to build strong communities, build a robust economy, have a well–planned and durable infrastructure; strengthen institutional systems and, protect and sustain natural and other unique assets.

It centres around three pillars: structural resilience, financial resilience, and post–disaster resilience.

Pillar 1: Structural resilience:

Under this pillar, the government of Dominica strives to build a resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding natural disasters, including category five hurricanes. It includes the construction of climate–resilient homes, healthcare centres, roads, bridges, airports and schools.

The revolutionary “Housing Initiative” will deliver climate–resilient homes to the public, who were displaced as a result of Tropical Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria in 2015 and 2017, respectively. The government is aiming to construct more than 5 000 climate–resilient homes and has already handed over keys to about 1 500 families who were displaced by Hurricane Maria.

The construction of 40 climate–resilient homes in the Salybia constituency commenced in February 2022.

In July of this year, Dominica also launched the “Future Housing Programme” which provides reasonably priced homes to youth aged 45 or younger.

The World Bank Emergency Agriculture Livelihoods and Climate Resilience Project is a five–year projects worth US$25 million and it aims to restore agricultural livelihoods and enhance the climate resilience of farmers and fishers affected by Hurricane Maria.

The project will ensure:

Farmers adopt new technologies and climate–smart practices for increasing modification and climate resilience in the crop, livestock, and fishing sectors;
Reconstruction and climate proofing of key agriculture infrastructure.

Several bridges have been built and damaged roads have been rehabilitated with the inclusion of slope retention walls and expanded sections to increase capacity and facilitate the movement of larger construction machinery.

Pillar 2: Financial Resilience:

The government of Dominica is implementing institutional fiscal reform to ensure stronger fiscal resilience which will aid in the strengthening of debt sustainability utilising several key institutional fiscal areas.

Pillar 3: Post Disaster and Social Resilience

This pillar helps encourage farmers to plant more root crops which are more resilient to heavy rain and wind, increases farmer training programmes and government assistance with the provision of seeds and fertilizers. The government's plan to strengthen food security, includes specific policies for the resiliency of the agriculture and fisheries industries.

During a time when larger and more developed countries have been holding talk–shops about finding accurate solutions to climate change, Dominica has emerged with concrete and efficient plans and strategies to mitigate the effects of these global issues.

Nandi Canning (PR Dominica) nandi.canning@csglobalpartners.com +27828215664

Dominica paves clear path to climate resiliency amid climate-related disasters

ROSEAU, Dominica, Sept. 26, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The climate crisis is real. Several severe weather patterns are confirming this.

This year marks five years since Dominica witnessed the deadliest Hurricane Maria.

It centres around three pillars: structural resilience, financial resilience, and post–disaster resilience.

Pillar 1: Structural resilience:

The construction of 40 climate–resilient homes in the Salybia constituency commenced in February 2022.

In July of this year, Dominica also launched the “Future Housing Programme” which provides reasonably priced homes to youth aged 45 or younger.

The project will ensure:

Farmers adopt new technologies and climate–smart practices for increasing modification and climate resilience in the crop, livestock, and fishing sectors;
Reconstruction and climate proofing of key agriculture infrastructure.

Pillar 2: Financial Resilience:

Pillar 3: Post Disaster and Social Resilience

Nandi Canning (PR Dominica) nandi.canning@csglobalpartners.com +27828215664

CIVIL SOCIETY LEADERS URGE ACTION ON DEBT, INFLATION, AND CLIMATE CHANGE, RENEW CALLS FOR RUSSIA TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR WAR CRIMES

New York, Sept. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As world leaders gather for the United Nations General Assembly, the Open Society Foundations is calling for bold steps to address critical worldwide crises, including:

A global rescue plan that sees higher–income countries committing 2% of their GDP to tackle spiraling living costs and embracing solutions such as pricing regulations, IP waivers, and windfall taxes;
Immediate debt relief and financial assistance to lower–income countries, including by suspending IMF/World Bank surcharges and issuing a new round of Special Drawing Rights;
Creation of a Loss and Damage mechanism to support countries that have already experienced irreparable or severe harm due to climate change;
Russian accountability for war crimes in Ukraine and an end to the war there; and
More open, inclusive, and effective global institutions that reflect the make–up of the world.

"Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow isn't just a line from Macbeth," said Mark Malloch–Brown, President of the Open Society Foundations. "For too long, it has also been at the heart of world leaders' plan to tackle these mounting global challenges. That has to change."

Malloch–Brown and other Open Society Foundations representatives will be in New York in September and are available to comment on the above:

Mark Malloch–Brown, President, formerly served as UN Deputy Secretary–General to Kofi Annan, led the UN Development Programme and was vice–president at the World Bank and Minister with responsibility for Africa, Asia, and the UN under UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown. He can speak about the global fallout from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, debt relief, development assistance, and reform of international institutions.
Laura Carvalho, Director for Equity, is a leading Brazilian economist and co–founder and Director of the Research Center on Macroeconomics of Inequality at the University of So Paulo and has written extensively on development economics and inequality. She can speak about the global economy and the need to reduce inflationary and debt pressures in the Global South.
Yamide Dagnet, Director for Climate Justice, previously served as the Director of Climate Negotiations at the World Resources Institute, focusing on the equitable implementation of international climate agreements. She can speak about the need for climate action that is fair and equitable for all countries and communities.
Natalie Samarasinghe, Global Director of Advocacy, formerly served as CEO of the United Nations Association–UK and Speechwriter for the President of the UN General Assembly. She can speak about global crises and the need for international action, as well as UN reform.
Oleksandr Sushko, Executive Director, International Renaissance Foundation in Ukraine (not in New York during UNGA), was Director of the Centre for Peace, Conversion and Foreign Policy of Ukraine. He can speak about the work and needs of civil society in Ukraine and the Ukraine Democracy Fund.

The Open Society Foundations, founded by George Soros, is the world's leading funder of independent groups working for justice, democratic governance, and human rights.

Bow Valley College President and CEO honoured with a Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal

Calgary, Sept. 02, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bow Valley College is proud to announce its President and CEO, Dr. Misheck Mwaba, has been awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. Dr. Mwaba graciously accepted the award from the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta and the Premier of Alberta at a ceremony in downtown Calgary.

"Receiving this medal in honour of Her Majesty the Queen's Platinum Jubilee is an honour and a privilege," says Dr. Mwaba. "I am humbled by the distinguished meaning behind it and touched that it is in recognition of my service in post–secondary education, an industry I am passionate about and that continues to inspire me."

Dr. Mwaba is one of 7,000 Albertans who will be awarded the commemorative medal celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Queen's accession to the Throne. It is bestowed upon dedicated individuals who have contributed significantly to the province of Alberta.

Dr. Mwaba was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Bow Valley College in 2020, following his time as Vice President, Academic at the College. His contributions to the post–secondary system include finding innovative ways to make higher education more accessible. He has been recognized as a leader in implementing micro–credentials, including for his critical role in creating a national committee and a pan–Canadian College framework for micro–credentials.

In addition, Dr. Mwaba skillfully navigated Bow Valley College through the pandemic and was instrumental in developing cutting–edge virtual reality technology and a laboratory at the College. He has sat on many prestigious boards and committees at the federal and provincial levels.

"The Queen's Jubilee Medal is acknowledgement of Dr. Mwaba's dedication to post–secondary education, his enthusiasm for uncovering contemporary learning options, and removing barriers to students," says Shannon Bowen–Smed, Chair of the Bow Valley College Board of Governors. "He continues to support economic development in the province of Alberta, helping thousands of students realize their skills and build successful careers."

Dr. Mwaba is the first Black college president in Alberta history. Originally from Zambia, he is an inspiration to many, including the immigrant community.

About Bow Valley College

Calgary and region's largest Comprehensive Community College "" with 14,000 full– and part–time students, Bow Valley College helps Open Doors "" Open Minds to in–demand jobs in Calgary, Alberta, and Canada. Our graduates contribute to the digital economy, TV & film production, and serve on the frontlines for healthcare and social programs. One of Canada's top 50 research colleges, Bow Valley College invests in virtual reality (VR), Work Integrated Learning (WIL), micro–credentials, and foundational opportunities.

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Dr. Misheck Mwaba receives Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal

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