News
Maad Secures $3.2 Million Funding to Revolutionize B2B E-commerce in Western Africa

Maad, a rapidly growing B2B e-commerce startup based in Senegal, has announced that it has secured $3.2 million in debt-equity funding from a consortium of investors led by prominent venture capital firms, CDC Group and Proparco, and angel investors. The funding, which was finalized on June 1, 2023, aims to support Maad’s expansion plans across Western Africa. Maad’s platform connects suppliers with businesses, offering a wide range of products, including food, beverages, personal care items, and more. Since its inception in 2020, the startup has made significant strides in Senegal and neighboring countries, with its user base growing exponentially.
The fresh funding will enable Maad to enhance its logistics and technology infra- structure, expand its product offerings, and strengthen its presence in the region. “This investment is a testament to our commitment to revolutionize the B2B e-commerce space in Western Africa,” said Amadou Ba, CEO of Maad. “We’re poised to make a significant impact on the region’s economy by empowering businesses and entrepreneurs.” Maad’s platform has already made a significant impact on the region’s economy by providing businesses with access to a wide range of products, improving supply chain efficiency, and reducing costs. With this funding, Maad plans to expand its operations to other countries in Western Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire. The funding is a significant milestone for Maad, which has been gaining traction in the region’s e-commerce landscape. “We’re thrilled to support Maad’s growth plans,” said CDC Group’s Investment Director, Fatoumata Camara. “Their innovative approach to B2B e-commerce has the potential to trans- form the way businesses operate in Western Africa.” Maad’s success has also attracted the attention of angel investors, who see huge
potential in the startup’s business model. “Maad’s platform has the potential to disrupt the traditional supply chain model in West- ern Africa,” said angel investor, Dr. Abdoulaye Djire. “I’m excited to be part of this journey.” With this funding, Maad is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for e-commerce solutions in Western Africa. The startup’s expansion plans are expected to create jobs, improve economic opportunities, and contribute to the region’s economic growth. In conclusion, Maad’s $3.2 million funding is a significant milestone for the startup and the region’s e-commerce landscape. As Maad continues to innovate and expand, it’s clear that the future of B2B e-commerce in Western Africa looks bright.
News
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 32 – January 6 to 12, 2025

Welcome to the 32nd edition of Diaspora Watch, your premier source of news, insights, and analysis on the global diaspora community. In this edition, we delve into the most pressing issues affecting diaspora communities worldwide, from politics and economics to social justice and culture.
FREE Digital View & Print on Demand:
https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/2984125?__r=1069759
Diaspora Watch Vol. 32 on our website:
https://diasporawatch.com/diaspora-watch-vol-32-january-6-to-12-2025/
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/
Our cover headlines are as diverse as they are impactful. We examine Nigeria’s lavish military retirement perks, which have raised eyebrows and ire among citizens. We also report on the devastating earthquake that struck Tibet, killing at least 95 people and injuring 130 others.
In the world of politics, we cover President Biden’s honoring of 19 exceptional individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, as well as Austria’s precarious political situation as coalition talks collapse.
In addition, we celebrate the achievements of outstanding individuals, including Abbie Stockard, the newly crowned Miss America 2025, and Demi Moore, who won her first Golden Globe Award for her role in “The Substance.” We also report on Microsoft’s record $80 billion investment in AI infrastructure and CARICOM Chair Mia Mottley’s ambitious agenda for 2025.
Other notable stories in this edition include the massive fire that destroyed Kantamanto Market in Ghana, affecting over 30,000 traders, and Nigeria’s travel advisory for citizens traveling to Australia.
We also profile Nigeria-born Derek Obialo, who was sworn in as Associate Judge of the 240th District Court in Texas.
As always, Diaspora Watch is committed to providing you with the most comprehensive and engaging coverage of the global diaspora community. We hope you enjoy this edition and look forward to your feedback.
Lifestyle
PCNI Austin Branch Celebrates End of Year Party in Texas

Dignitaries, Chiefs, Others In Attendance As PCNI Austin Branch Celebrates End of Year Party In Texas
It was a night of glamour and excitement as the Austin Branch of the People’s Club of Nigeria International (PCNI) held its end of year party on Saturday, November 30, 2024.Diaspora Watch reports that the well-attended event, which took place at Wingate by Wyndham Round Rock Hotel and Conference Center, Texas, was a celebration of the branch’s achievements and a show of appreciation to God for His blessings throughout the year.
In his address, Hon. Chief Chris Lemchi, the Action Chairman of PCNI Austin Branch who doubles as Akudo 1 of Okwelle Ancient Kingdom welcomed guests and appreciated the presence of dignitaries from various branches of the club.
The event was also graced by the presence of Patron-Elect Ichie Napoleon Onyeje, Mirienweiro, Hon. Patron Chief Dr. Don Ibekwe, Ulu Nimo from Galveston Branch, Patron, Chief Dr. Onyekachi Okoro, Patron-Elect, First National PCNI Vice President Emeritus, Chairman Emeritus, Secretary Emeritus Dallas Branch and the Sponsoring Chairman of our awesome Austin Branch, Assistant National Secretary Hon. Emmanuel Onwukamuche, Secretary Emeritus, First International Branch Houston, High Chief Humphrey Enyioha, Ikoroukwu Texarkana Branch, Hon. Chief Bright Nwokocha, Ugwumba, Chairman Emeritus, First International Branch – Houston, Hon. Nze Dr. Bon Ikwuagwu, Omekaozuo, Chairman 1st International Branch Houston, Hon. Ichie High Chief Sir Dr. Peter I. Okafor, Agbawodike Izu, Chairman Emeritus Dallas, Hon. Chief Chris Ogbuehi, Chairman-Elect – Dallas, Hon. Prince Ike Ginigeme, Founding Chairman Waco Branch, Hon. Chief Dr. Emma Igwe – Founding Chairman Texarkana Branch, Hon. Chief Dr. Emma Igwe, Founding Chairman Texarkana Branch, and Hon. Chief Clara Obidike-Egbim, Okwuru Okarisia 1 of Ebikoro Kingdom, Anyanwu Nwanneka – Founding Chairman of People’s Club of Nigeria- Gainesville Branch and PA to PCNI International President.
Other dignitaries included the President General of Enyimba, Honorable Ubabuike, UBA, Chief Martin Osuji, president Coal City, Chief Francis Odu, president Enyimba Austin, and Chief Fred Ojiyi, President IPC, Hon. Chief Chris Lemchi, Akudo 1 Of Okwelle Ancient Kingdom, Action Chairman PCNI Austin Branch, First Lady, Lolo Rachel Lemchi, Kpakpandudiya, Adakekeocha and Patron-Elect Ichie Napoleon Onyeje, Mirienweiro.
News
Cybersecurity Expert Kimma Wreh Releases Two Essential Books To Empower Digital Safety

To promote cybersecurity education and awareness, Excel TeKay LLC has announced the release of two critical books, “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” and “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim,” written by renowned cybersecurity expert Kimma Wreh. Now available on Amazon in paperback and hardcover, these books aim to equip readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and protect themselves in today’s digital world.
Diaspora Watch reports that “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” is a comprehensive resource that simplifies complex cybersecurity topics, offering step-by-step guidance for individuals, families, and small businesses. Readers will learn practical tips for creating strong passwords, enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), managing IoT devices, and defending against threats like malware and phishing.
The book also explores mobile security, incident response, and pathways for pursuing cybersecurity careers, making it an accessible resource for anyone seeking to improve their digital safety. Wreh’s expertise and experience in the field shine through in this book, pro-viding readers with a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles.
In “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim”, Wreh exposes common online scams, including phishing, romance fraud, and malware attacks. Using real-world examples, including her personal experiences, she equips readers with tools to detect red flags, protect sensitive in-formation, and recover from breaches.
Highlighting the staggering $10 billion lost to cyber scams in 2023, Wreh provides actionable strategies to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals in today’s digital landscape. Her expertise and in-sights in this book are in-valuable, helping readers to develop a deeper under-standing of the tactics used by cyber scammers and how to protect themselves.
Kimma Wreh, a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), draws on over 15 years of expertise in cybersecurity and digital literacy. She is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of Excel Global Media Group Inc. and a Principal Consultant at Excel TeKay LLC.
“I want readers to feel confident about their digital safety and see cybersecurity as something they can master,” said Wreh. Her passion for empowering individuals and businesses to take control of their digital safety is evident throughout both books.
Both “Intro to Cybersecurity: Guide for Beginners” and “Cyber Scams: Don’t Be A Victim” are available now on Amazon.