World Bank [to 8 February 2014]
http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/all

Region/Global actions and announcements
Access to High Speed Internet is Key to Job Creation and Social Inclusion in the Arab World
ABU DHABI, February 6, 2014 – The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries lag behind when compared with other regions in the development of broadband networks, internet access and use, and creation of digital content.  The demand for widespread access to broadband internet, a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and social inclusion, has never been greater. According to the latest regional report by the World Bank on broadband in the Arab world, open competition and policy and regulatory changes could transform the region into a global leader in high speed internet.“The Middle East and North Africa region has been the cradle of science and technology and can again use modern technology to address the contemporary problems faced by the region,” said Inger Andersen, World Bank Vice President for the MENA region.  “We at the World Bank Group are committed to working closely with all countries in MENA to improve access and quality of broadband internet connecti Show Less –
Date: February 6, 2014

Fish Farms to Produce Nearly Two Thirds of Global Food Fish Supply by 2030, Report Shows
WASHINGTON, February 5, 2014 – Aquaculture – or fish farming – will provide close to two thirds of global food fish consumption by 2030 as catches from wild capture fisheries level off and demand from an emerging global middle class, especially in China, substantially increases.These are among the key findings of “Fish to 2030: Prospects for Fisheries and Aquaculture” – a collaboration between the World Bank, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), released today. The report highlights the extent of global trade in seafood which tends to flow heavily from developing to developed countries.According to the FAO, at present 38 percent of all fish produced in the world is exported and in value terms, over two thirds of fishery exports by developing countries are directed to developed countries. The “Fish to 2030” report finds that a major and growing market for fish is coming from China which is projected…
Date: February 5, 2014

Kenya to Host African Institute for Remittances Secretariat: Institute to be fully operational in 2015
ADDIS ABABA, February 3, 2014 – The African Union (AU) Executive Council, has selected the Republic of Kenya to host the African Institute for Remittances (AIR). The Council asked the African Union Commission to conclude the Host Agreement with the Republic of Kenya so as to ensure the formal take-off of the Institute this year.   It also asked the World Bank and other development partners to support the Institute. The Institute is scheduled to be fully operational by 2015.“I am delighted that the Executive Council has decided that the Republic of Kenya will host the AIR. The establishment of AIR, the first of its kind in the world, is a cornerstone in harnessing Diaspora resources for social and economic development in Africa”, said Dr. Mustapha S. Kaloko, Commissioner of Social Affairs of the African Union Commission. He also called upon development partners to continue supporting the Institute.  Kenya is one of four member countries that had expressed interest…
Date: February 3, 2014