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Introduction Vaping has become a popular trend in South Africa, offering a modern alternative to traditional smoking. For enthusiasts or those new to vaping, finding the right shop is crucial. Enter Downtown Vapoury, a premier vape shop known for its wide selection and excellent customer service. Why Choose Downtown Vapoury? Downtown Vapoury stands out in …
Cushman & Wakefield | BROLL says operators seek sites to the north and east of Johannesburg, in well-located nodes with power supply, while in the smaller Cape Town market data centres are expanding, and there’s growing interest in Nigeria and Kenya. The surge in AI technology deployment and demand for more efficient cloud storage drives …
Between April 20-27, the Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition (www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org), a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, hosted 40 participants—consisting of top 10 Heroes, other finalists and partners from across Africa—in Hangzhou, China. Participants engaged in an immersive experience at Alibaba's headquarters in Hangzhou and have returned to their home countries enriched with valuable insights to further enhance their entrepreneurial endeavors on the continent.
During their visit, the ABH Heroes (spanning cohorts from 2019 to 2023) participated in a wide range of activities. These included deep dives that explored various facets of the digital economy from cloud computing, AI-driven logistics to e-commerce villages. They participated in a series of workshops and site visits—all designed to elevate entrepreneurs to a higher level of success. The Heroes also exchanged knowledge and explored opportunities for collaboration with business leaders from Alibaba and with each other. These activities provided the participants with new knowledge and perspectives that they can potentially apply to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and scale their businesses.
Diarra BOUSSO, Founder & Creative Director of Diarrablu and ABH 2020 top 10 Hero, who was among the participants in the trip to China, expresses her gratitude for the experience, stating: “This trip was so inspiring in so many ways. First, meeting all these entrepreneurs who are the top entrepreneurs on the African continent and spending a week together was an incredible experience. And second: being immersed in the world of Alibaba and all the companies Jack Ma and his team built over time and understanding the vision behind it was like a dream come true.”
In another exciting development, ABH is extending its deadline for 2024 entries from May 19 to June 9 to accommodate more entrepreneurs eager to participate in the competition. Candidates selected for the top 50 will gain access to a host of resources, including training, mentorship and networking opportunities, as well as a supportive network of fellow African business leaders. US$1.5 million in grant funding will be distributed among the top 10 finalists; the first prize winner will receive an award of US$300,000.
This year, ABH has also hosted information sessions and community events across the continent to facilitate the application process and nurture a vibrant entrepreneurial community. These events have taken place in South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire, with upcoming sessions scheduled for Egypt, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Senegal. These events are conducted in partnership with local entrepreneur organizations and key ABH stakeholders including judges, Heroes and partners.
To date, ABH has received applications from entrepreneurs spanning all 54 African countries. Entrepreneurs from across the continent – regardless of sector, age or gender – are invited to participate. Applications can be submitted in English or French at: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/apply-now.
Individuals are also encouraged to nominate eligible entrepreneurs who they believe are creating impactful and sustainable solutions to challenging issues here: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/nominate
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).
Press Contact:
Africa's Business Heroes Press Room:
abh.press@list.alibaba-inc.com
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
English:
Tracy Walakira
tracy.walakira@apo-opa.com
French / Arabic:
Malika Bouayad
malika.bouayad@apo-opa.com
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For more information about ABH 2024, please visit https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/.
About Africa's Business Heroes:
The Africa's Business Heroes Prize Competition is a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy. It aims to support, inspire and enable the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors who are building a brighter future for the continent, by offering grant funding, training programs and support for the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over 10 years, each year the ABH Prize Competition features 10 entrepreneur finalists as they pitch their business to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
In the dynamic realm of IT, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) represent a crucial component in the infrastructure of businesses ranging from small enterprises to large corporations. An MSP assumes the responsibility of managing and maintaining company IT systems, offering services that allow businesses to operate more efficiently without the burden of handling all IT issues …
In the digital age, cloud computing has become pivotal in reshaping how businesses operate, offering them a plethora of benefits that drive efficiency, innovation, and scalability. South Africa, in particular, has embraced this technology, with local cloud service providers playing a crucial role in facilitating this transformation. The Transformational Benefits of Cloud Computing Cost Efficiency: …
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a leading cloud platform globally, and in South Africa, AWS partners play a crucial role in enabling businesses to leverage cloud solutions effectively. These partners, integral to the AWS ecosystem, offer specialized services that help organizations integrate AWS technologies seamlessly into their operations. The Strategic Importance of AWS Partners Expertise …
Govt committed to upholding the rights of all, regardless of beliefs
Government is committed to engaging in continuous dialogue with inter-faith organisations on any issue affecting society, as it strives to provide equal respect and protection to both believers and non-believers, as well as to different religious denominations.
“As interfaith leaders, you represent the starting point from which acts of kindness and generosity should originate. I greatly esteem you as the leaders of our society, as you are the individuals who regularly interact with communities on a daily basis,” Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Friday.
He was speaking at an engagement between inter-faith leaders and government in Cape Town.
The Deputy President said through weaving together the threads of different faiths and the tireless work of numerous organisations, the dark cloud of apartheid was finally vanquished, paving the way for a freedom that the country cherishes.
“It is important to always maintain a sense of gratitude for the achievements we have made and not let the pessimistic voices that solely focus on the negative aspects overshadow our progress.
“We built our progress on the unity of diverse faiths, treating every religion with equal respect. In stark contrast, the apartheid era unfairly elevated Christianity as the sole faith, causing division among South Africans.
“Today, it is truly remarkable to see people from diverse backgrounds joining forces to achieve great things, overcoming obstacles, and fostering unity for the betterment of our communities,” the Deputy President said.
Mashatile said government is committed to upholding the rights of all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or religious affiliations.
“We strive to provide equal respect and protection to both believers and non-believers, as well as to different religious denominations. Equally, our commitment to addressing social issues has been unwavering. Over the past 30 years, we have made remarkable strides in enhancing the well-being of South Africans.
“We have transitioned from an authoritarian state apparatus that overlooked the lives and living conditions of millions of our citizens to a democratic nation that guarantees equal protection for every individual,” Mashatile said.
He said a significant number of South Africans, especially those who are less fortunate, now have the opportunity to access education, healthcare and basic services.
“More than ever before, millions of our citizens are shielded from abject poverty by means of among others the redistribution policies that represent progress, such as the Land Reform Programme.
“Today, our churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples serve as cornerstones of society, providing vital education, feeding the poor and needy, and speaking out against injustices in our nation with a consistent and strong approach,” the Deputy President said.
Mashatile commended the work that the inter-faith communities in the Western Cape have done.
“I also appreciate the Western Cape inter-faith leaders for uniting most of these diverse religions and denominations under one umbrella body. We have a shared responsibility to bring all religions together in our efforts to promote national unity and social cohesion.
“This is a task that I began while serving as Minister of Arts and Culture, and it remains important to me even today.
“South Africa, with its widely diversified community, has encountered enormous obstacles to social cohesion and togetherness,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 13:17
Matilda Gasela headed several forensic audits despite facing allegations herself
In the contemporary business landscape, understanding the intricacies of various technological services is crucial for staying competitive and innovative. From software development to cloud computing, managed services, and digital payment solutions, these components are pivotal in enhancing operational efficiency, security, and scalability. Here’s how these services are shaping the future of business and where you …
Entertainer Lebo Molax earned R200,000 for participating in three National Lotteries Commission events
While training concerns around AI exist, HR professionals believe the technology will ease workload, boost competitiveness, and create jobs The freeing up of time through AI and tech will also dramatically improve job satisfaction 15 April, 2024 – A new global report from Sage reveals that HR professionals welcome AI to ease the burden of …
In the dynamic landscape of South African businesses, efficiency is key. From managing fleets to handling finances, every aspect demands careful attention and streamlined processes. This is where modern software solutions step in, offering a plethora of tools to optimize operations and enhance productivity. Let’s delve into the world of software solutions tailored to the …
In an era of rapid technological change, software development companies are not just participants but pioneers, shaping the digital landscape. They blend cutting-edge technology training and development with the implementation of sophisticated cloud-based solutions, playing a vital role in digital transformation across industries. These companies offer a wide range of services, from cloud computing and …
Africa Data Centres (www.AfricaDataCentres.com/) and DPA SA have broken ground on their solar farm in the Free State; The first phase will see power getting wheeled to its CPT1 facility; The second phase will see power being supplied to JHB1 and JHB2 once wheeling agreements with relevant municipalities conclude.
Africa Data Centres, a business of the Cassava Technologies group, is pleased to announce that it has broken ground on the construction of a solar farm in the Free State in collaboration with DPA Southern Africa.
This announcement forms a crucial component of the 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) inked in March 2023 with DPA Southern Africa a joint company of the French utility, EDF. The objective of the Free State farm is to furnish renewable energy to Africa Data Centres sites, commencing with its cutting-edge, carrier-neutral data centre in Cape Town, the CPT1 facility.
According to Cassava Technologies' President and Group CEO, Hardy Pemhiwa, “This initiative positions Africa Data Centres as a trailblaser in the data centre industry in responding to South Africa's energy crisis through sustainable technology solutions. This is in line with a broader industry shift towards innovative, eco-friendly practices. The strategic use of solar power showcases technology's role in pioneering solutions for energy challenges and environmental sustainability”.
Furthermore, Tesh Durvasula, CEO of Africa Data Centres, underscores the commitment to powering all data centres with clean, renewable energy sources. "Today's announcement represents a significant stride in our initiative to energise South African data centres sustainably, advancing our objective of achieving carbon neutrality. The first phase involves constructing the 12MW solar infrastructure to power our Cape Town data centre, with subsequent phases extending to our Johannesburg data centres.”
Nawfal El Fadil, the CEO of DPA SA, states, "Africa Data Centres, as a pioneer in the data centre industry, has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, aligning seamlessly with our company's values. We are thrilled and honoured to contribute to Africa Data Centres' mission of achieving carbon neutrality, beginning with the establishment of this solar power plant in the Free State to serve their data centre in Cape Town. At the heart of our collaboration lies a shared understanding that the path to carbon neutrality extends beyond infrastructure—it demands innovation, expertise, and collective determination to overcome challenges. DPA SA, backed by EDF's legacy, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in delivering high-quality, sustainable energy solutions to this partnership."
"We take immense pride in supporting Africa Data Centres on this journey, being among the pioneers in launching a wheeling solar plant, thereby paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future in South Africa," adds Nawfal El Fadil.
This project is a key element of Africa Data Centres' ambitious plans to emerge as the most sustainable colocation provider on the continent. "Beyond procuring renewable energy, our commitment to an efficiency strategy has earned us the internationally recognised ISO50001 certification for the effective operation of our data centres," Durvasula elaborates.
"Data centres worldwide face scrutiny for their reliance on grid power and renewables, and Africa is no exception. Africa Data Centres is actively addressing this issue by generating renewable energy, alleviating strain on the local grid. Additionally, our sustainability objectives encompass achieving net-zero status at all facilities, making this project another significant stride towards reaching that goal," concludes Durvasula.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Data Centres.
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About Africa Data Centres:
Africa Data Centres is your trusted partner for rapid and secure data centre services and interconnections across the African continent.
Africa Data Centres is Africa's largest network of interconnected, carrier and cloud-neutral data centre facilities. Bringing international experts to the pan-African market. We are your trusted partner for rapid and secure data centre services and interconnections across the African continent. Strategically located, our world-class facilities provide a home for all your business-critical data. Proudly African, we are dedicated to being the heart that beats your business.
Africa Data Centres' aim is to unveil various business opportunities and to develop a strategic network of partnerships. This will further strengthen Africa Data Centres' superiority in providing our customers with the highest standard of interconnected, carrier and cloud-neutral data centre facilities throughout Africa. www.AfricaDataCentres.com/
About Cassava Technologies:
Cassava Technologies is a technology leader providing a vertically integrated ecosystem of digital services and infrastructure enabling digital transformation. Launched in 2021, the company was born out of a need to create a digitally connected future that leaves no African behind. Through its subsidiaries, namely, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Liquid Dataport, Liquid C2, Africa Data Centres, Distributed Power Africa, Sasai Fintech and Telrad, Cassava is a multinational technology company that has operations across key growth markets like Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and the United States of America. Cassava provides its customers in 94 countries with offerings that will help them grow, transform, and expand their operations. https://apo-opa.co/3U7rdmB
About DPA Southern Africa:
DPA Southern Africa, a joint company of the French utility EDF and Distributed Power Africa, is at the forefront of the Southern African renewable energy market for businesses, laying the foundation for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future in South Africa and beyond.
Our commitment is to assist companies in achieving carbon neutrality and cost savings simultaneously by providing tailor-made renewable energy solutions that meet the specific needs of businesses. Our comprehensive offerings include on-site, wheeling, and storage solutions, offering businesses a holistic approach to sustainable energy management.
MSG, owner of Power FM, channelled the money for the National Lotteries Commision
Johannesburg, South Africa, 2 April 2023 – A story of resilience and reinvention takes centre stage as South African communications powerhouse, JT Communication Solutions, celebrates its 20th anniversary on April 1st, 2024. Founded by Vanessa Perumal, a resilient business trailblazer and cancer survivor who defied the odds, JT Comms remains the first Black woman-owned communications …
Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property, demystifies the journey with this step-by-step guide to buying your first residential property in South Africa. Buying a property in South Africa is a significant financial commitment, and the process can feel overwhelming. The good news is that with the current market leaning in favour of buyers, it’s a …
Proactive financial management is more than just good business practice, it’s a strategic approach that involves anticipating future financial challenges and opportunities, rather than merely reacting to them. Proactive financial management involves a comprehensive approach, encompassing everything from budgeting and cash flow forecasting to strategic planning and careful risk assessment. Unlike reactive management, which deals …
SAP ordered to pay SIU half a billion Rand over 'invalid' Eskom contracts
German software company, SAP, has been ordered by the Special Tribunal to pay some R500 million to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) within seven days following a settlement reached between the company and the unit.
According to the SIU, the settlement stems from an agreement on the validity of two Eskom contracts awarded to SAP between 2013 and 2016.
“Eskom and SAP entered into two contracts, the Enabling Agreement and the Cloud Services Agreement, worth approximately R1.1 billion. The Special Tribunal order has also declared that the two contracts are constitutionally invalid and therefore set aside.
“The order of the Special Tribunal is part of the implementation of the SIU investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover financial losses suffered by State institutions due to negligence or corruption. The settlement agreement does not absolve SAP or any implicated party from possible prosecution,” the SIU said.
The corruption-busting unit explained that an investigation into Eskom found that the contracts were entered into illegally.
“Thereafter, SAP entered into a Sale Commission Agreement with CAD House CC, a Gupta-linked company. Furthermore, Eskom and SAP signed an agreement for Cloud services at a contract value of R21 712 514.82. Following payments from Eskom to SAP, CAD House received funds from SAP.
“SIU findings revealed that the Enabling Agreement and the Cloud Services Agreement did not comply with the Public Finance Management Act, which resulted in Eskom incurring fruitless and wasteful expenditures in respect of the agreements.
“The SIU is empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name, to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigations caused by acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration. In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence pointing to criminal conduct to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 03/25/2024 - 15:01
SevenC, a leading IT infrastructure and network service provider striving to identify and make available the best possible ICT strategies for its clients’ unique needs, explores the unique offerings of specific cloud platforms and how businesses can choose the right one. “Chances are, if you’ve navigated the web or used an app recently, you’ve interacted …
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called for private-led investment in infrastructure development at the 2024 edition of the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) on in Cape Town on Tuesday.
“It is estimated that to achieve our infrastructure goals, we need almost R4.8 trillion to address the challenges we face as a country. We need that from both the public sector and the private sector – from a much larger extent,” stated President Ramaphosa.
Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za.
The South African government has been working to streamline its infrastructure sector and attract investment in strategic projects. Regulatory reforms, according to President Ramaphosa, include “the amendment within our own realm of the Division of Revenue Act, to enable provincial government to use their provincial grants to crowd in the private sector to finance large-scale infrastructure, and to open up opportunities for the private sector to work alongside government to create revenue generating projects.”
These reforms, as well as SIDSSA, “enables us to close the infrastructure investment gap in our country,” stated President Ramaphosa. “This is a valuable platform to enable us to have an introspective look at the opportunities that we have.”
SIDSSA 2024 is hosted by South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala, who said, “We will use this platform to outline the progress of the country since the SIDSSA in 2020. As we convene, we must emerge with tangible actions to finance infrastructure as a critical corridor to Africa's development. Infrastructure should be a flywheel of our country's economic recovery.”
Platforms such as SIDSSA – in tandem with the establishment of Infrastructure South Africa in 2020 – have been pivotal for uniting the public and private sectors, driving investment in strategic projects. According to Zikalala, “we have been able to unlock more than 195 licenses, permits and approvals within 47 projects alone. South Africa established the Infrastructure Fund to unlock more private investment in the infrastructure pipeline using a variety of blended financing tools. So far, 13 mega blended finance projects or programs have been approved to date.”
This year's SIDSSA draws insight into the progress made to transform the economy through infrastructure development. According to Tertuis Simmers, Provincial Minister of Infrastructure in the Western Cape, “The Western Cape stands as Africa's premier digital hub, and Cape Town is swiftly solidifying its position as the cloud computing hub of South Africa. Our province has ambitious vision…Central to this strategy is our commitment to infrastructure development: the bedrock of our provinces' economic advancement.”
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
When searching for the best cloud hosting solutions, the multitude of options can be overwhelming. However, a standout provider in managed cloud hosting is Cloudways. A platform serving over 90,000 SMBs, agencies, developers, and e-commerce sites, it has carved a niche in hosting more than a million websites. Clients are not just seeking hosting but a blend of scalability, reliability, and expertise, …
Dube-Ncube commends setting up of victim-friendly rooms at police stations
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has commended the installation of victim-friendly rooms at 28 police stations, boreholes and streetlights at a gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) hotspot in Nongoma.
The victim-friendly rooms were installed by lsibaya Casino, while Vodacom installed the boreholes and streetlights.
Dube-Ncube said at least 755 survivors of GBVF accessed services in government supported GBVF shelters, with 112 964 survivors receiving psychosocial support services from the Department of Social Development and their partners.
“A total of 3 540 victims of GBV and crime accessed Khuseleka/White Door houses and shelters. District focal points and stakeholders from 11 districts were trained as master trainers,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier said there are currently 74 functional ward-based rapid response teams integrated into war rooms.
The Premier emphasised that one of the best ways is to assist GBV survivors through economic empowerment, highlighting that 26 401 women were reached with economic empowerment programmes this year.
“Three hundred women in business have been supported with card machines by the Office of the Premier. A GBVF App with a panic button is being developed by the Moses Kotane Institute, with funds from lsibaya Casino.
“We are determined to ensure that women are continuously empowered and in this regard, through the Department of Social Development, SEDA [Small Enterprise Development Agency] and EDTEA [Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental], we have trained over 500 women in business skills,” the Premier said.
She said most of these women were survivors of GBV and to this end, they have received start-up packs to set up and run their own businesses.
Forging partnerships for GBV response programmes
Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal Office of the Premier has forged strategic partnerships for the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Response Programmes.
The office, as the coordinating office, is leading the implementation of the Provincial GBVF Strategic Implementation Plan, which was approved by the provincial Executive Council in 2022.
“These partners include the KZN Gaming Board, lsibaya Casino, United Nations Population Fund, AIDS Foundation of South Africa, TBHIV Care, Cloud Therapist, Vodacom, lmbumba Foundation, SAB, and Spar Group. This structure is responsible for addressing high profile cases and supporting District Rapid Response Teams,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 15:11
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses are continually seeking innovative solutions to stay ahead of the curve. This guide delves into a suite of services that are pivotal for organizations aiming to harness the power of technology and digital transformation. These offerings span from educational initiatives to cloud computing, data intelligence, and beyond, showcasing …