Canon Inc. (www.Canon-CNA.com) announced today that its SELPHY series of compact photo printers, which enables users to easily print high-quality photos and continues to offer a wide range of ways to enjoy photo printing, will celebrate its 20th  anniversary in 2024.

The SELPHY series was created in 2004 in response to heightened demand for photo prints due to the rapid spread of digital cameras in the early 2000s. As of April 2024, the SELPHY series has launched 31 products1 and sold a combined total of more than 17 million units2 worldwide.

The name SELPHY, a combination of “self” and “photography,” was given to convey Canon’s hope that easily printing photos on one’s own would allow people to experience new ways of enjoying photography. SELPHY printers produce photo prints that possess both high-quality and excellent durability through the adoption of a dye sublimation printing process, in which ink is printed by vaporising it with heat. They are also easy to use and feature a small, lightweight body which makes them convenient for transport. The SELPHY series has earned support from a wide variety of users as it offers user-friendly photo printing on the spot, which not only helps to share memorable moments but can also be used to produce a work of one’s choice or in various situations, from wedding decorations to ID photos.

Canon staked its claim as a pioneer in the market of photo printing when it introduced the CP-10 dye sublimation printer in April 2001. Then in 2004, it released SELPHY CP500 and SELPHY CP400 (October 2004). At the same time, Canon launched the SELPHY brand, weaving the product concept into the brand name.

From that point on, Canon continued to develop products in line with generational changes and technological advancement. SELPHY CP710, equipped with a colour LCD monitor and capable of printing photos directly from memory cards, was released in September 2005. Then, with the release of SELPHY CP900 in September 2012, SELPHY printers became compatible with wireless LAN (Wi-Fi3) and achieved wireless linkage with smartphones and tablet devices. SELPHY SQUARE QX10, a compact and lightweight model equipped with an internal battery, making it ideal for carrying, was newly added to the lineup in April 2020. Following that, Canon continued to further develop product functions and designs and in September 2022 released the SELPHY CP1500, the latest model in the CP series which enables vivid colour expression through its automated colour correction function.

Additionally, the SELPHY Photo Layout application, exclusively for the SELPHY series, features a function to create collages by automatically combining several photos and makes it possible to produce images using filters and stamps, as well as create layouts in various paper sizes such as for printable stickers. SELPHY printers also address demand that has risen alongside the popularisation of smartphones, by producing prints in square formats, for instance, which have become familiar thanks to social media.

Going forward, Canon will continue to provide new ways of enjoying and using photos and aim to make contributions to photo and video culture by continuing to expand the SELPHY series in line with evolving user needs. 

1 Total number may differ by market or region

2 As of December 31, 2023

3 Wi-Fi® is a registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa 
Mai Youssef 
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com 

APO Group – PR Agency 
Rania ElRafie 
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com  

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market. 

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.  

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/3SvVhrS) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better. 

For more information: Canon-CNA.com

ENGIE Energy Access (www.ENGIE-EnergyAccess.com) is pleased to share the publication of its white paper, “Towards Universal Access to Energy: Enabling a Multi-Technology Approach in a Mini-Grid Environment.” a blueprint for action towards achieving the ambitious Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) by the 2030 deadline set by the United Nations.

Download Document here: https://apo-opa.co/3UhWpj3

With just six years left to achieve the energy-related United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the task of bringing universal energy access (https://apo-opa.co/43XaK83) to Sub-Saharan Africa within the confines of current business models is increasingly challenging. Rapid population growth, pandemic fallout, detrimental macro-economics and geopolitical uncertainties have only intensified the urgency.

In response, this white paper advocates for an impact-driven integrated approach powered by a multi-technology paradigm. This approach emphasizes the need to combine suitable technologies to address the needs of millions without access to energy while reducing the required initial investments. While solar minigrids (https://apo-opa.co/3xEDkyY) have been identified as a key component of the solution, their deployment is facing significant challenges that a multi-technology approach could solve.

Paramount is the call for collaborative efforts. Achieving SDG7 is not a solo journey. It requires the collective wisdom, resources, and commitment of industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and communities. This white paper serves as a starting point for a much-needed dialogue and joint action.

The full report can be downloaded here : https://apo-opa.co/3vV8Cky

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Engie Energy Access.

Press contact ENGIE Energy Access:
katja.damman@engie.com

About ENGIE Energy Access: 
ENGIE Energy Access (www.ENGIE-EnergyAccess.com) is the leading Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) and mini-grids solutions provider in Africa. The company develops innovative, off-grid solar solutions for homes, public services and businesses, enabling customers and distribution partners access to clean, affordable energy. The PAYGO solar home systems are financed through affordable instalments and the mini-grids foster economic development by enabling electrical productive use and triggering business opportunities for entrepreneurs in rural communities. With over 1,800 employees, operations in nine countries across Africa (Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia), 2.5 million customers and more than 12.5 million lives impacted so far, ENGIE Energy Access aims to impact 20 million lives across Africa by 2025.

Read more on ENGIE-EnergyAccess.com

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany marks “World Art Day 2024” through their pan African Community of “Art and Fashion with Purpose”, established by Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation to raise awareness about sensitive health and social issues in Africa and beyond.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and One of 100 Most Influential Africans 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 stated, “I am very happy to mark the ‘World Art Day 2024’, as I firmly believe that Art, Fashion and Media play a very significant role in raising awareness and address critical social and health issues thus bringing a culture shift in our communities. I have always said that Art and fashion have a purpose much beyond entertainment and looking good. With this thought, we came up with our first-ever Pan African TV program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” which discusses and addresses various social and health issues relevant to Africa in a very unique way through our African Community of Fashion and Art with Purpose. Through this first-of-its-kind interactive Tv show, we are addressing and raising awareness about a wide range of issues  like Ending Child marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV, Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education and Women Empowerment and Diabetes and Hypertension Awareness and more.”

‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation’ is a pan African TV program that is conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation to feature African Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent experts from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa. The program has captured the attention and hearts of millions of viewers across Africa.

The TV program has been broadcasted on prime TV stations of many countries like KTN HOME (Kenya), GH One&TV3 (Ghana), NTV (Uganda), BTV (Botswana) Mashariki TV (Burundi), QTV (The Gambia), LNTV (Liberia), Deffi Media (Mauritius), AYV (Sierra Leone), and ZNBC (Zambia) and many more. It will soon be broadcast on TV3 in Ghana, KTN in Kenya, Mibawa TV in Malawi, NTV in Uganda and ZTN in Zimbabwe. “Our Africa” TV Program is currently on social media handles of Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/48Jpjxo), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3St4oc8), Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/3Ss45yo) and YouTube(https://apo-opa.co/3vE1SqC)) and Merck Foundation (Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/47HPK5u), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/494Vib1), Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/3U8RG3y) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/49BNHAO)).

Watch the Promo of the Program here: https://apo-opa.co/3W0eHXr

Merck Foundation in partnership with Africa’s First Ladies, announces annually 8 important Awards, under two themes, for Media, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers and Musicians/ Singers, and potential young African talents in these fields. The themes of the two categories of awards are: 1) Breaking Infertility Stigma, Support Girls’ Education, End Child Marriage, End FGM, Stopping GBV and/ or Women Empowerment at all levels and 2) promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. The 2024 editions were announced during the 10th edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary held in India in November 2023.

“It is very well known that in Africa, Art has a very rich cultural legacy and history. Hence, we launch these awards annually, with my dear sisters, the African First Ladies who are also the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”. Through our Awards, we aim to inspire the continent’s youth to use their talents  to address our  important and critical social and health issues, by raising awareness through their creative work at all levels.” Added Senator Kelej.

As a part of their Community Awareness Programs, Merck Foundation has created over 30 songs with many African Artists, in English, French, Portuguese and also local African languages to address critical issues like breaking infertility stigma, empowering women, supporting girl education, ending child marriage, diabetes awareness, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and more.

“Music and Art can influence us to make the problem felt, which further stimulates emotions and leads to engagement and action. Music has the power to touch the hearts and souls of people, bind communities, and bring about a cultural shift in society”, says Dr. Kelej.

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Ladies of Africa has also launched 8 Children’s Storybooks in English, French, Portuguese.

“We have created 4 Animation Films in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish language to instill early awareness of social and health matters, fostering empathy, understanding, and informed decision-making in young minds, we focused on Diabetes and Hypertension awareness through “Sugar Free Jude” and “Mark’s  Pressure”, and the other two films are about supporting girl education “Jackline’s Rescue” and “Ride into the Future”. We aim to inspire our youth and children to lead a brighter, healthier future in our beautiful continent, Africa”, emphasized Dr. Rasha Kelej.

To listen to the Merck Foundation songs and read the Merck Foundation storybooks, please visit: https://apo-opa.co/3T09uvK

Watch “Ride into the Future” Animation Film to emphasize on the importance of Girls Education, here: https://apo-opa.co/3I8VFGt

Watch “Sugar Free Jude” First Diabetes Awareness Animation Film, here: https://apo-opa.co/3VXLHzy

“We will continue to use Art as a medium, to bring positive changes in our communities, in unique ways”, concluded Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

More Image: https://apo-opa.co/3Q35Tw8

Media contact:
Mehak Handa 
Community Awareness Program Manager 
+91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669  
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com 

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. To know more, reach out to our social media: Merck Foundation (Merck-Foundation.com); Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3Ykd3hH), Twitter (https://apo-opa.info/3Yo3y11), Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3lsqM7q), YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3CNFGLa), and Flickr (https://apo-opa.info/3JT8BSC).

The Host Agreement Signing Ceremony for the Intra-African Trade Fair 2025 (IATF2025) took place in Algiers on 15 April 2024. The Ceremony, which was hosted by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), in collaboration with the African Union and the AfCFTA Secretariat, and the Government of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, paves the way for the fourth edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair to take place from 4 – 10 September 2025 in Algiers, Algeria.

H.E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Chairperson of the IATF2025 Advisory Council and Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extolled the Intra-African Trade Fair as the go-to trade and investment event on the African continent. He added that “the IATF2025 Hosting Agreement represents more than just a contractual agreement; rather it symbolises a collective responsibility of the partners for excellence and innovation in continuing the tradition of the Intra-African Trade Fair, which has become established as the AfCFTA Marketplace and the go-to trade and investment event on the African continent. The IATF is now a foremost event in the African calendar of economic, social, trade and even policy events. It is in the passionate pursuit of these goals that Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union Commission and AfCFTA Secretariat are championing the noble cause of changing the socioeconomic landscape of Africa by devising progressive initiatives aimed at promoting intra-African trade and continental integration.”

Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade Bank, Afreximbank, said: “The Intra-African Trade Fair opens alternate routes for African trade. It has become the platform for actualising the AfCFTA vision. It expands and deepens knowledge of the continent’s trading environment and enhances the industrial capacity of African economies. Ultimately, IATF has become the engine accelerating trade and business flows within the continent. The last three fairs have generated combined trade and investment deals of no less than US$120 billion. To one who wonders what the US$120 billion represents, African businesses have found buyers in new markets across Africa, industries have found new sources of raw materials, investment and capital goods, government-to-government deals in critical sectors such as agriculture and agro-processing have been forged, and African contractors have won major government projects.” She also expressed her gratitude to the Government of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria for their unwavering commitment and support for the Intra-African Trade Fair.

A statement delivered on behalf of H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General, AfCFTA Secretariat described the importance of the Intra-African Trade Fair as “our strategic response to the challenge of trade information scarcity, aiming to enhance intra-African trade and investments, all without the need for outside help. And it serves as a symbol of hope and opportunity, breaking down conventional trade and investment barriers to unite the diverse yet cohesive African identity.“

A statement delivered on behalf of H.E. Ambassador Albert Muchanga, African Union Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, highlighted that other regions of the world have proved that “trade can be a powerful tool for economic growth. Whilst trade was able to lift millions out of poverty in those regions, the same has not reflected in Africa’s experience. Trade amongst African countries is low. The AfCFTA was designed to change this story. Not only was it meant to boost Intra African trade, but it was meant to deal with Africa’s perennial challenges of job creation, high levels of poverty and very low levels of manufacturing and industrial base. It was designed to create a predictable legal framework for trade and investment, hence offering more guarantees to investors thereby bringing certainty and predictability to the African trading environment.”

In his Closing Remarks, Jean-Louis Ekra, Former President of Afreximbank and Deputy Chairperson of the IATF2025 Advisory Council, praised “the power of African unity, shared purpose, and collective action towards a path taken to promote intra-African trade and investment. It is through our combined efforts that we can drive positive change, foster innovation, and create a better future for all the inhabitants of the African continent.”

The Ceremony was also attended by public and private sector institutions, African diplomatic corps, financial institutions, and trade and industry associations, and is intended to maximise awareness surrounding the upcoming IATF2025.

Attendees at the Signing Ceremony also had the opportunity to visit the Algerian Company of Fairs and Exports (SAFEX), which will be the venue for IATF2025.

The Intra-African Trade Fair is the African continent’s premier trade and investment event and provides a unique opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their goods and services, engage in Business to Business (B2B) and Business to Government (B2G) exchanges, network, establish new business contacts and conclude business deals. The event also gives delegates the opportunity to hear actionable insights from an array of experts on a wide range of trade and investment topics and opportunities at the IATF Trade and Investment Forum. The event also offers opportunities for participants from the Diaspora, creative industries including gastronomy and the culinary arts, to attend and showcase their goods, services and expertise. In addition, there will be training workshops covering exporting, standards and marketing.

Attendees at the IATF include businesses, buyers, sellers, traders and investors, captains of industry, senior government ministers, trade finance and advisory specialists, trade and economic organisations, senior executives from corporates and multinationals, innovative entrepreneurs and the media in one venue.  

The highly successful third edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2023) took place in Cairo, Egypt, from 9 – 15 November 2023, and attracted over 28,000 conference delegates, trade visitors and media, had 1,939 exhibitors from 130 countries, and witnessed US$43.8 billion of trade and investment deals being concluded.

For more information about IATF2025 please visit www.IntrAfricanTradeFair.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contact:
Mr Vincent Musumba
Manager, Communications and Events (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com
Tel: +20 2 24564100 /1/2/3
Mobile: +201030121123

Ms Lynette Lambert
Senior PR Director
Brand Communications
Email: lynette.lambert@brandcommsgroup.com
Direct Number: +44 20 7012 8748

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra-and extra-African trade. For 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialization and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank is setting up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries to effectively participate in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2023, Afreximbank’s total assets and guarantees stood at over US$37.3 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$6.1 billion. The Bank disbursed more than US$104 billion between 2016 and 2023. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure, (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com