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First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO) unveil ₦20m agritech investment for startups

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In a bid to foster innovation and sustainability in agriculture, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) and the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO) have announced the launch of the FCMB–FMO AgriTech Investment Readiness Programme 2025.

This initiative aspires to identify, support, and finance Nigeria’s most promising agritech startups and Small- to Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

In collaboration with Heave Ventures, the programme is designed to enhance access to capital while fostering the scalability of innovative agritech businesses.

It will feature a competitive grant prize pool of ₦20 million, awarded to ventures recognised as best positioned for investment.

The programme will also include digital learning and fundability scoring through Zimara. This proprietary platform leverages alternative data and established readiness benchmarks to identify bankable ventures.

Applications for the programme are now open at http://on.fcmb.com/AgricTech-Hackathon will remain accessible from August 8 to September 12, 2025.

Following this period, the top twenty startups will participate in an intensive 6-week investment readiness programme, culminating in a pitch presentation to a panel of esteemed funders in October 2025.

Mr. Kudzai Gumunyu, Divisional Head of Agribusiness & Non-Oil Exports at First City Monument Bank, said: “This programme is more than providing traditional funding; it is a commitment to nurturing and empowering agritech startups to contribute to the agribusiness landscape and unlock its full potential.

“It reflects our mission to drive inclusive and sustainable growth through an African-rooted ecosystem that connects people, capital and markets. This initiative will help nurture and prepare these startups for investment opportunities, enhancing their potential to contribute to the agritech landscape in Nigeria’’.

The CEO of Heave Ventures, Abiodun Lawal, said:”Scaling agribusiness innovation has the potential to revitalise entire value chains — from production to processing to export — creating millions of decent jobs, boosting foreign exchange earnings, and positioning Africa not merely as a consumer but as a vital global food and agricultural technology supplier.

“Agriculture is a powerful lever in the fight against poverty and unemployment and in achieving food sovereignty. Investing in agribusiness is an investment in the continent’s economic independence, resilience against global challenges, and the dignity of its people. We are delighted by the commitment shown by FCMB and FMO in supporting agritech startups and assisting them in their developmental journey.”

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Politics

Say Goodbye To These Diseases By Eating Sugarcane Regularly

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Say Goodbye To These Diseases By Eating Sugarcane Regularly

Sugarcane is often enjoyed as a sweet, refreshing treat, especially on hot days.

But beyond its natural sweetness, sugarcane is packed with nutrients and health benefits that can help your body fight off and even prevent several diseases.

Eating sugarcane regularly—or drinking its fresh juice—can be a simple, natural way to boost your health and say goodbye to some common illnesses.

One of the biggest benefits of sugarcane is its ability to support liver health.

Sugarcane juice is a natural detoxifier, helping to flush out harmful toxins from the liver and bloodstream.

It’s especially beneficial for people suffering from jaundice, as it helps restore the liver’s function and maintain the right levels of electrolytes in the body.

Regular consumption can keep your liver healthy and improve digestion.

Sugarcane is also a great friend to your digestive system.

It contains potassium and natural fiber, which help prevent constipation, bloating, and stomach acidity.

Drinking sugarcane juice after meals can improve bowel movements and support the growth of good gut bacteria, making your digestive system stronger and more balanced over time.

Another major health benefit is its positive effect on the kidneys and urinary system.

Sugarcane juice acts as a natural diuretic, encouraging urine flow and helping to keep your kidneys clean.

This can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones.

It also helps maintain proper hydration, which is crucial for kidney function.

For those concerned about infections and low immunity, sugarcane offers a natural boost.

It is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which fight free radicals and strengthen the immune system.

This can help your body ward off infections like colds, flu, and fever.

Lastly, sugarcane supports healthy skin and prevents acne.

Its detoxifying properties clear impurities from the blood, leading to a clearer, glowing complexion over time.

In short, sugarcane is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a natural medicine.

By eating sugarcane regularly or drinking its fresh juice, you can protect your liver, boost digestion, improve kidney health, strengthen immunity, and even achieve healthier skin.

It’s a simple, affordable, and tasty way to say goodbye to several common diseases naturally.

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Lifestyle

What Your Urine Color Says About Your Kidney Health

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What Your Urine Color Says About Your Kidney Health

The color of your urine can tell a lot about your kidney health and overall well-being. It is often the first sign that something may be off in your body. Paying attention to it can help you catch problems early.

Clear or light yellow urine is usually a good sign. It means you are well-hydrated, and your kidneys are working properly to filter waste. Drinking plenty of water often leads to this healthy color.

Dark yellow or amber urine may indicate dehydration. Your kidneys are concentrating urine to save water. Drinking more water usually helps return it to a lighter color. However, some vitamins and supplements can also darken urine.

Orange or brown urine can be a warning. It may be caused by certain foods, medications, or liver problems. It can also indicate bile buildup or a kidney issue. If it persists, seeing a doctor is important.

Red or pink urine can be alarming. Sometimes it is caused by eating beets or berries, but it can also indicate blood in the urine. This could result from kidney stones, infections, or more serious kidney problems. Immediate medical attention is advised.

Foamy or bubbly urine may indicate protein in the urine. This can be a sign of kidney damage. Persistent foaminess should not be ignored.

Very dark, almost black urine is rare but serious. It may suggest severe dehydration, liver problems, or a rare kidney disorder. Urgent medical evaluation is needed.

In summary, normal urine color ranges from pale yellow to light amber. Changes in color, especially if persistent, should not be ignored. Monitoring your urine and staying hydrated helps maintain kidney health. If unusual colors continue, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

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