MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
What is a Distribution Board? A distribution board is a critical component of an electrical supply system that divides an electrical power feed into subsidiary circuits, providing a protective fuse or circuit breaker for each circuit within a common enclosure. Exploring Types and Features of Distribution Boards There are various types of distribution boards …
GITEX Africa 2024 (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent's largest tech and startup exhibition scheduled from 29-31 May in Marrakech, Morocco, emerges as a pivotal platform for exploring the intersections of digital transformation, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment. As South Africa's banking of finance sector takes center stage in this global dialogue, the event promises to be a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth.
In South Africa, digital transformation has become imperative across industries, and the financial sector is no exception. From the convenience of online banking to mobile payment solutions, banks are leveraging digital technologies to enhance efficiency, improve customer experience, and expand access to financial services.
With a growing youth population favoring digital banking, financial institutions are investing in user-friendly mobile apps and online platforms to meet evolving customer preferences.
Banks Face Competition from Fintech and Innovative Platforms
These digital banking platforms provide users with convenient access to a wide range of financial services, including account management, payments, and lending, all through intuitive user-friendly mobile and online interfaces.
However, amidst this digital transformation, banks face stiff competition from a diverse array of players, including agile fintech startups and innovative tech-driven platforms. These disruptors offer innovative solutions that challenge traditional norms and cater to evolving customer needs.
South African fintech startups, recognized locally and globally, provide convenient digital banking services, investment platforms, and innovative lending solutions, drawing customers away from traditional banks with their agility and customer-centric approach. In 2021, South Africa boasted the highest number of fintech startups in the African region with 154 companies (https://apo-opa.co/3KjmVTL). As of May 2022, fintech startups in South Africa secured close to $US77 million (https://apo-opa.co/3ys79ms).
The fintech value chain encompasses a wide range of services including banking, infrastructure, crowdfunding, digital currencies, lending, payment, and regulation technology.
By facilitating dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, GITEX Africa accelerates the pace of digital transformation in the financial services sector, driving inclusive growth and economic empowerment across the African continent. Among the more than 35 esteemed speakers from South Africa include Lillian Barnard, President at Microsoft Africa; Zondwa Mandela from Mandela Legacy; and Chipo Mushwana, Executive of Emerging Innovation and Payments, Nedbank.
Major South African investment funds, unicorns, and start-ups fast-forwarding cross-continental progress at GITEX AFRICA 2024 include SAVANT, Zindi, and go1.
Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, said: “Africa has long been recognised for its formidable growth prospects and AI is the long-awaited key to help unlock that potential.”
“The AI-powered innovation we're seeing today is poised to reinvent every aspect of society from healthcare to financial services, manufacturing and beyond. If Africa is to benefit from the paradigm shift currently sweeping the globe, we must make the promise of AI real for people and organisations across the continent – and do so responsibly.”
Hands-on Support Required for Startups
Bongani Sithole, CEO of Founders Factory Africa and a speaker at GITEX Africa outlines key challenges facing African startups: difficulties in finding product-market fit, hiring the right talent, maintaining company culture while expanding into new markets and securing funding.
Despite these challenges, Sithole highlights opportunities for startups to tap into, including the “development of new products and services to meet the needs of their growing customer base. This can lead to increased innovation and competitiveness.”
In terms of specific trends within the African startup ecosystem, Sithole says we can expect to see more mergers and acquisitions (M&As) continue this year, primarily driven by larger companies seeking to acquire earlier-stage companies. “M&As are strengthening the startup ecosystem by offering a guarantee of revenue and funding for founders.” Additionally, he notes the potential of AI applications to address societal challenges and drive economic growth.
As Africa's tech ecosystem evolves, he sees opportunities for cross-regional collaboration through initiatives like cross-border agreements for trade and talent, full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), fast-tracking of regulatory approvals.
Reflecting on lessons from leading African unicorns, he highlights the importance of solving societal problems and embracing failure as part of the startup journey. “Many successful founders are not first-time successes. Founders are encouraged to remain within the ecosystem even after failures to create potential unicorn by leveraging their experience.”
At GITEX Africa, Sithole aims to emphasize the importance of “hands-on support” for early-stage ventures beyond just capital. He also hopes to develop actionable steps to stimulate innovation and funding across Africa, advancing the tech and startup ecosystems.
Financial Inclusion and Economic Empowerment
Recognizing the significance of digital transformation, the South African government has taken proactive steps to promote financial inclusion and economic growth. In 2023, the National Treasury released a policy framework to broaden financial inclusion (https://apo-opa.co/4bff3OC), to achieve 90 percent banked status by 2030. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to leveraging digital technologies to drive socioeconomic development and create opportunities for all South Africans.
While progress has been significant, challenges persist, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to ensure equal access to financial services. As South Africa continues to ride the wave of digital finance, the possibilities are boundless. By embracing innovation and strengthening collaboration, the country is charting a journey toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.
Media Contact:
Tayce Marchesi – PR Executive
Tel.: + 971 58 552 3994
Tayce.Marchesi@dwtc.com
On social media:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3JwCSp0
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Qjatqj
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/3w8Pbom
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3QluZGW
Youtube: https://apo-opa.co/3UdDFAb
Hashtag: #GITEXAFRICA
Website: www.GITEXAfrica.com
About KAOUN International:
KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word ‘universe', KAOUN International's mission is to ‘Create Limitless Connections' for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC's events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC's extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine.
Pretoria, South Africa – 13 May 2024: Jaguar TCS Racing secured its second podium of the weekend and leaves Berlin extending the lead in the Teams’ World Championship. Nick Cassidy achieved his most successful weekend in Formula E with Jaguar TCS Racing, taking the win on Saturday, a second-place finish on Sunday and two Fastest …
Dear Editor Mineral Resources and Energy minister Gwede Mantashe has just said the quiet part out loud. He’s reported to have said that because Shell wants to exit its downstream, filling station business in South Africa he will be more reluctant to grant the company exploration and drilling rights for oil and gas. This statement …
They failed to provide audited financial statements
Introduction In the contemporary educational landscape, the demand for personalised learning experiences is growing exponentially. Parents and students alike are seeking specialised assistance outside the traditional classroom setting to enhance understanding and improve academic performance. Among the subjects that often require additional support are Maths, English, Afrikaans, Science, and Physics. In this blog, we …
So, here’s the latest scoop: Microsoft, the big tech player known for its fancy software and services, is getting slapped with some serious competition charges from the EU, all because of its Teams software. And let me tell you, investors and industry experts are not happy about it. They’re all wondering how this whole mess …
Today, we’re diving into the thrilling world of trading values and volumes for the Satrix 40 bundle. If you’re not familiar with it, the Satrix 40 bundle is an index tracking fund listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. It’s designed to give you exposure to the top 40 companies in South Africa. Satrix is wholly …
Introduction In the realm of home automation, the fusion of technology and convenience has transformed the way we interact with our living spaces. Smart switches and electric window treatments are at the forefront of this revolution, offering homeowners a seamless way to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of their homes. This article explores the …
Government activities for the week 13 - 17 May 2024
On Monday, 13 May, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala will lead a delegation comprising of built environment professionals and experts to the George building disaster.
Also on Monday, the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, will lead the International Nurses Day commemorative event in Cape Town.
On Tuesday, 14 May, to Thursday, 16 May, the Department of Tourism will be hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.
On Tuesday, 14 May, the Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga will deliver the main address at the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s passing out parade, where 410 newly trained traffic officers will become ready to save lives on the country’s roads.
On Wednesday, 15 May, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the memorial lecture on the life of Elijah Barayi.
Also on Wednesday, the Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga and the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will undertake various road safety activations during a three-day visit.
On Thursday, 16 May, and Friday, 17 May, the Department of Employment and Labour will host a joint inter-departmental Jobs Fair in KwaZulu-Natal.
Janine
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:48
Hey there, fellow traders! Let’s dive into the thrilling world of the FTSE 100 and explore what’s happening in the trading scene today. The FTSE 100, also known as the Financial Times Stock Exchange 100 Index, is like a crystal ball that shows us how the top 100 companies listed on the London Stock Exchange …
In the world of padel, where precision, power, and finesse converge, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Enter Babolat, a brand synonymous with innovation and excellence in the realm of racket sports. Renowned for their tennis gear, Babolat has also made significant strides in the padel world, offering a range of high-performance …
The second edition of the Invest in African Energy (IAE) forum will kick off on Tuesday, May 14 in Paris, uniting the African and global energy industry for two days of discussions, networking and deal-making opportunities.
The two-day forum has confirmed the participation of African energy ministries, NOCs, service providers and regulators from Angola, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea-Conakry, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, Senegal and South Africa. These target markets will showcase key projects open to private sector participation – including licensing rounds, farm-in opportunities and more – through technical presentations, country-specific sessions and regional market spotlights. A highly anticipated ministerial panel on Day 2 will map Africa's path in the just energy transition, amid shifting energy priorities and global environmental policies.
IAE 2024 is an exclusive forum designed to foster collaboration between European investors and African energy markets. Taking place May 14-15, 2024, in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors, and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com.
The event has also attracted the attention of global investors, bringing together operators, exploration and production companies, technology and service providers, development finance institutions, multilateral banks, investment platforms and trade and development organizations from the Middle East, Europe, the U.S. and Asia. IAE 2024's international, high-level attendance speaks to sustained interest in developing Africa's energy resources for enhanced energy security on the continent and across the globe. A series of panel discussions will explore future proofing Africa's gas and LNG industry; creating opportunities in Africa's energy system; financing African renewable energy projects; unlocking midstream and downstream investment; new opportunities in key growth markets; and more.
“IAE 2024 is set to be the premier African energy project showcase taking place outside of the African continent. We invite energy industry stakeholders to register and attend the forum – kicking off tomorrow – as we look forward to two productive days of deal-making and discussions in Paris,” says Sandra Jeque, Event & Project Director at Energy Capital & Power, forum organizers.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Introduction Embarking on a weight loss journey can be daunting, yet with the right tools and information, it becomes a manageable endeavour. This guide will explore various supplements and dietary plans that could assist in achieving your weight loss goals. We’ll delve into the roles of collagen powder, weight loss pills, meal replacement shakes, and …
Upgrade of Ogunjini Water Treatment Works resumes
The EThekwini Municipality has appointed a contractor to commence with the upgrade of the Ogunjini Water Treatment Works, which will help to improve water supply in areas in the north of Durban.
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, together with eThekwini Municipality, introduced the contractor, who will commence with the R56 million upgrade, to the community during an event held at Osindisweni Sports Ground on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, Mchunu said the completion of the upgrades will improve water supply to Osindisweni, which is currently experiencing water supply shortages.
The water supply shortages affecting the area are due the water treatment work’s inability to sufficiently manage the growing demand from the community in the area.
Ogunjini Water Works was built to primarily supply water to Osindisweni Hospital. However, over time, there has been a significant number of homes reliant on the pump station.
“Once this project is complete, the treatment works will have a design capacity of three megalitres (ML) per day. Currently, it has a design capacity of 0.9 ML per day,” Mchunu said.
Mchunu said the project is part of the city’s efforts to ensure reliable water supply, particularly in rural areas.
“We are pleased that the municipality continues to invest in water infrastructure and a number of projects are currently underway including the upgrade of the Southern Aqueduct which will improve water supply in the southern areas.
“We have also increased the capacity of Hazelmere Dam, which will alleviate water challenges in areas such as Verulam and oThongathi up to Stanger,” Mchunu said.
eThekwini Infrastructure and Human Settlements Committee Deputy Chairperson, Bheki Mngwengwe, assured the community that the contractor, who will be on site from today, will be closely monitored to ensure that work is of quality and completed within 10 months. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:06
Bluegrass Property Developers is excited to announce Buyers Day at Shawu’s Hills Wildlife Estate, scheduled for 6 June, 2024. This exclusive event is tailored for those looking to invest in the unparalleled beauty and serenity of Shawu’s Hills Wildlife Estate, overlooking the majestic Kruger National Park. Nestled on the banks of the Crocodile River, Shawu’s …
In the realm of popular culture, there are certain characters that captivate our imagination and leave a lasting impact. One such character is Hannibal Lecter, the infamous fictional serial killer and cannibal created by American novelist Thomas Harris. But what makes Hannibal Lecter even more intriguing is the unexpected connection he shares with former President …
Public Works Minister to visit George building disaster site
Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) Minister, Sihle Zikalala, will today lead a delegation comprising built environment professionals and experts to the George building disaster.
Zikala’s visit follows last Monday’s collapse of the Victoria Street multi-storey site building in the Western Cape’s George Municipality.
In a brief statement on Monday morning, the George municipality confirmed 24 fatalities adding that rescue and recovery efforts are continuing.
The delegation will include leadership from DPWI senior executives, the Construction Industry and Development Board (CIDB), Council for the Built Environment (CBE) and its regulatory professional councils, namely Quantity Surveyors, Town Planners, Engineers, Environments Practitioners, Land Surveyors, Project and Construction Managers, Property Valuers, Architects and Landscape Architects.
The two entities of the DPWI are responsible for regulating the built environment and construction sector in the country.
The purpose of the visit is to ascertain the role of professionals who were involved with this project and assess if there was compliance with all built environment regulations or there was no misconduct committed by the professionals leading to the disaster.
Minister Zikalala will first visit the Joint Operations Center and get a briefing and update on the situation, then proceed to visit the disaster site.
The Minister will then address the media together with his delegation of professionals.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his condolences to the families of those who died in the tragedy.
Meanwhile, Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi visited the site of the collapsed building on Thursday.
READ | Condolences for families of George building collapse
READ | George building collapse: numbers revised
– SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 08:49
In today’s competitive business environment, standing out is more important than ever. One effective way to achieve this is through the use of promotional products, and one of the most timeless and versatile options is the promotional notebook. Across Australia, businesses of all sizes are discovering the benefits of incorporating promotional notebooks into their marketing …
Introduction to Soweto Soweto Tours , an emblematic township of Johannesburg, South Africa, offers a profound cultural and historical experience for visitors from all over the world. Known for its pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement, Soweto is not just about past struggles; it’s a vibrant hub of activity, art, and community life. Historical …
Completion of work at the James Kleynhans Water Treatment Works has been extended for the third time in six months
Introduction Magnetic separators are crucial in various industries, including mining, recycling, and food processing, to remove unwanted metal contaminants. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and strategic upgrades are essential to ensure efficiency and safety in operations. Recognising the Need for Repairs The first step in maintaining a magnetic separator is recognising signs of wear and …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) has been made aware of a falsified letter drafted in my name with a falsified signature as the DA Federal Chairperson to Mr. Mbalula requesting for a meeting between Mr. Steenhuisen and President Ramaphosa to discuss the feasibility of forming a coalition government. We have proven that the letter …
Dear Editor New revenue and expenditure figures released by the National Treasury would on face value suggest an accomplishment on the part of Government. It has certainly been labelled as such by those who sing the praise of a political party which has singlehandedly collapsed our economy and rendered it uninvestable. Following 15 years of …