global

7 March 2024

Innovative businesses gain more access to global markets, study finds

Location: News

Innovative businesses gain more access to global markets, study finds

Innovation-active South African businesses have more skilled labour and greater access to the global markets compared to non-innovation enterprises, according to results from the latest round of the South African Business Innovation Survey (BIS).

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) survey revealed that during the 2019 to 2021 period, 62% of South African businesses took scientific, technological, organisational, financial, or commercial steps aimed at realising an innovation.

According to the statement, training emerged as the most common innovation activity for 47% of innovation-active businesses, followed by software and database activities (29%), and marketing initiatives (25%).

Of the employees involved in these innovation activities, only 38 in 100 workers were female and 62 in 100 were African.

In addition, the computer sector had the highest proportions of businesses with innovation activities and innovation.

“There remains significant scope for businesses in South Africa to undertake innovation activities that result in novel innovations, and do so in an inclusive manner.

“In South Africa, where we face multiple challenges, a more innovative business sector can contribute to productivity and business resilience as well as job creation, improved working conditions and quality of life," said the HSRC’s Dr Amy Kahn, who led the BIS.

South Africa’s BIS, covering the period between 2019 and 2021, examined the innovation activities in about 5 500 enterprises — from small to very large, and across a range of industries.

Among these innovation-active enterprises, 37% introduced both product and process innovations, while 23% had only product innovations and another 23% only process innovations.

The remaining 17% of innovation-active businesses either did not have innovations or abandoned their innovation projects by the end of 2021.

Among advanced and emerging technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies were most widely used or developed by 80% of all innovative businesses.

The IoT describes devices with sensors, processing ability, software and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet or other communications networks.

The survey report, prepared for the Department of Science and Innovation by the HSRC’s Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII), provides new evidence for policymakers to foster business innovation and offers new insights for business leaders and industry associations regarding the innovation landscape in South Africa.

“The innovation situation for all South African businesses should concern us, including why firms do or do not innovate,” added CeSTII Research Director, Dr Moses Sithole.

Meanwhile, high costs were a significant barrier to innovation for 27% of all businesses, the survey found, as well as too much competition (25%) and lack of funds (24%).

“Product and process innovations tended toward quality improvements, including enhanced working conditions, product quality, and overall quality of life and well-being, rather than cost-related outcomes,” explained Sithole.

The BIS report also delves into the distinct innovation practices of a wide range of South African businesses.

“The analysis conducted in this round of the Business Innovation Survey takes us significantly closer to understanding the South African business innovation practices that shift the needle. This informs how we should design support for greater business innovation in our country,” said Executive Head of CeSTII, Dr Glenda Kruss.

For example, HSRC said the survey highlighted that businesses without formal innovation processes, such as research and development (R&D), patenting or not collaborating with external entities, were more likely to abandon their innovation projects.

On the other hand, companies with the capability to develop their innovations in-house and more novel product innovations had the highest turnover in 2021.

Also, businesses more connected to global markets and with higher product innovation novelty held greater intellectual property rights.

“A fine-grained understanding of the patterns of innovation exhibited in South African businesses enables us to build the capabilities suited to South Africa’s context and its challenges.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 03/07/2024 - 14:48

154 views

7 March 2024

RS PRO Expands Electronics Engineering Range With 1900 New Products

Location: Business

RS South Africa (https://Africa.RSdelivers.com/), a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a global provider of product and service solutions for industrial customers, has expanded its RS PRO (https://apo-opa.co/3uZFEzs) electronics engineering range with 1 900 new products across 20 technologies. It offers high-quality electronics components from industrial connectors and passives to the latest test and measurement equipment.

This expansion is specifically curated for professionals engaged in R&D, PCB development, equipment and machinery design, and production line engineering. The electronics engineering range stands as a testament to RS PRO's commitment to providing high-calibre components and precision measuring instruments of the highest quality.

RS PRO stands out as a competitive option between other leading brands. It is synonymous with high-quality products that have undergone rigorous testing and comply with industry standards.

The RS PRO product line boasts an extensive selection of over 80 000 items, boosting its capability to meet any requirement and provide complete solutions. A high inventory availability ensures customers can find everything they need in a simple, efficient, and straightforward way, all under one brand.

The expanded range encompasses the following electronic products: resistors, capacitors, inductors, circuit protection, industrial and AV connectors, fuses, LED indicators, electronic test and measurement, soldering equipment and more.

All products feature the RS PRO Seal of Approval, a guarantee of professional, industrial-grade quality and performance, tested by the brand's team of experienced engineers. RS PRO provides customers with a comprehensive choice of quality solutions, meeting design and compliance specifications at all stages of the product lifecycle.

More information on the expanded RS PRO electronics range is available on the RS website (https://apo-opa.co/4c7HNtQ).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.

PR Contact Person – RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
Africa Exports
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366

Media Contact Person – NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763

Further information is available via these links:
Twitter : https://apo-opa.co/3T0ICwS
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3I5UIyE
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3T2j16J
RS Africa Exports: https://apo-opa.co/42GY3gZ
RS South Africa: https://apo-opa.co/48m0si7
DesignSpark: https://apo-opa.co/4bJaCwo
RS Group plc: https://apo-opa.co/49isz2Z

About RS Group:
RS is a trading brand of RS Group plc, providing product and service solutions that help our customers design, build, maintain, repair and operate industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 750,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to 1.1 million customers.

We support customers across the product lifecycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance, repair and operation phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.

RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2023 reported revenue of £2,982 million.

Media files

Download logo

7 March 2024

Road safety initiative for children launched in Gauteng

Location: News

Road safety initiative for children launched in Gauteng

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has partnered with Santam on an initiative to reduce the high proportion of children who lose their lives in road-related incidents.

Santam Head of Market Development, Neptal Khoza, said they have identified a need to roll out scholar patrol projects in townships where many children walk or commute to school without adult supervision and often need to cross dangerous, multi-lane roads.

The scholar patrol initiative will be set up in at 10 schools in the Sedibeng District Municipality in Gauteng.

Safety patrollers on duty will be trained effectively, given the appropriate uniform and equipment, including umbrellas and rain ponchos during the rainy season.

Patrollers will also receive certificates of recognition for their participation. The initiative will provide much-needed temporary employment opportunities for the surrounding communities.

Post-matric, unemployed youth will be recruited as patrollers in a bid to contribute towards the government’s objective to provide an avenue for labour absorption and income transfers to poor households in the short- to medium-term.

“The project has the potential to prepare youth for future careers in road safety, traffic police and general law enforcement. This project is one of many initiatives that we will plug into the existing community enhancement structures in achieving our broader goal of building communities that are more resilient. We foresee that learners, as well as their families and communities, will benefit immensely form this service.

“We call on other corporate and private sector entities to join us in partnering with the public sector in ways that can benefit greater society and ultimately provide existing initiatives with the boost they need to reach their full potential,” Khoza said on Wednesday.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Status Report on Road Safety of 2023 cites that road traffic injuries remains the leading cause of death for children.

“Pedestrian safety remains the most significant road safety challenge in South Africa. Our records as the RTMC indicate that on average 10.2% of pedestrian fatalities are of the 0 to 14 age brackets. For the past three years, 47% of fatal crashes involved pedestrians, with Gauteng as one of the main contributors to the high pedestrian fatality rate.

“Funding for road safety remains a challenge for the RTMC. There has been continuous effort to engage the private sector for collaboration on the implementation of road safety initiatives. The school intervention by Santam in the road safety programme will go a long way in creating safer communities and save more lives,” said RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane.

ChildSafe spokesperson and Executive Director, Zaitoon Rabaney, said they will continue to advocate for the 30 km/h speed restriction around schools, as well as environmental modifications that influence driver behaviour to adhere to slower speeds in school areas.

“Equipping our children and their families with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate roads safely is paramount. Through educational programmes, campaigns and targeted outreach efforts, such as the scholar patrol initiative, we can foster a lasting positive impact on the safety culture on our roads, especially around schools.

“These alarming statistics, however, highlight the urgent need for comprehensive road safety measures, particularly those focused on protecting our most vulnerable road users – children,” Rabaney said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 03/07/2024 - 09:12

83 views

6 March 2024

Survive or thrive: SA’s SMEs are needing fast capital

Location: MyPR

For more information on Quick Capital and how Zapper is empowering South African businesses, follow this link: https://www.zapper.com/quick-capital/

6 March 2024

Government welcomes slight GDP growth

Location: News

Government welcomes slight GDP growth

Government has welcomed the release of the latest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures by Statistics South Africa, which show a slight growth of 0.1% in the fourth quarter of 2023.

“This growth is particularly encouraging as it surpasses pre-pandemic levels. This indicates a resilient economy showing signs of recovery, and bettering previous strength,” Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said on Wednesday.

In the fourth quarter, real GDP reached R1 158 billion, marking continuous improvement from the pre-COVID-19 level of R1 150 billion, although still below the peak recorded in the third quarter of 2022.

READ | GDP increases by 0.1% in the fourth quarter of 2023

“The increase, though slight, signifies continued progress in the country’s economic recovery. It signifies the resilience of our economy and the positive impact of government interventions. We are particularly pleased to see the transport, storage and communication industries leading the growth.

“This modest uptick in GDP is testament to the concerted efforts of various sectors and stakeholders in navigating the complexities that were posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and other domestic and global challenges,” Ntshavheni said.

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said the modest growth signifies a positive turning point.

“Government remains committed to implementing policies that foster a conducive environment for further economic expansion, and to continue to invest in infrastructure development, support small businesses, and create an environment that attracts investment. Working together, we can build a stronger and more inclusive South African economy for all,” GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 03/06/2024 - 09:59

552 views

6 March 2024

Intellectual Property and AI: Who Owns Machine-Created Content?

Location: MyPR

Defining machine-created content Machine or AI-generated content refers to any work or output produced by artificial intelligence (AI) systems rather than by human creators. This type of content can encompass a wide range of forms, including but not limited to text, images, music, and more. AI systems generate this content by processing large datasets, learning …

6 March 2024

Google and Facebook are killing local news

Location: News

The Limpopo Mirror is published in Louis Trichardt, a town in the north of South Africa’s Limpopo province. This week the Competition Commission is probing how online news is affected by AI chatbots, search and advertising technology. The outcome of the hearings is important for the future of news reporting in South Africa. In this …

6 March 2024

African Polystyrene Alliance Launch Event: Paving The Way For A Sustainable And Circular PS Economy

Location: MyPR

The African Polystyrene Industry Alliance (APIA), a pioneering non-profit industry body, is thrilled to announce its official launch event scheduled for Thursday, 29 February 2024, at the Plastics SA office in Midrand. The event will mark a significant milestone in the polystyrene industry’s journey towards sustainability, circular economy practices, and responsible production. As an industry …

6 March 2024

SA, Czech Republic to collaborate on science, tech and innovation

Location: News

SA, Czech Republic to collaborate on science, tech and innovation

The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Jiří Kozák, recently visited the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to explore potential areas of collaboration with South Africa.

The Deputy Minister was in South Africa for bilateral political consultations with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).

Organised by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), Kozák toured the CSIR’s National Centre for Nanostructured Materials and the Cybersecurity Operations Centre this week.

The visit, according to the DSI, laid the foundation for future discussions in science, technology and innovation (STI) between the countries.

“The potential areas of collaboration included food security, academies of science, hydrogen, nanotechnology, cybersecurity, technology transfer, aerospace technologies, and partnering under the Square Kilometre Array mega-science project,” the statement read.

Both the CSIR CEO, Dr Thulani Dlamini, and Kozák expressed their commitment to continue the discussions on these topics.

“A follow-up meeting is planned to concretise the discussions,” the department said.

The department said the relationship between South Africa and the Czech Republic exemplifies the growing significance of science diplomacy.

In a dialogue on science diplomacy, Kozák said the Czech Republic government had established a department on science diplomacy, as international collaboration in research and innovation was a very important task in furthering the country's unique qualities.

Through joint initiatives, exchange programmes and diplomatic engagements, both nations could leverage scientific cooperation as a vehicle for fostering diplomatic ties and addressing global challenges.

DSI’s Deputy Director-General for International Cooperation and Resources, Daan du Toit, said science diplomacy enhances mutual understanding and facilitates the exchange of knowledge, expertise and resources, ultimately paving the way for sustainable development and prosperity.

“In this context, the partnership between South Africa and the Czech Republic transcends traditional diplomatic channels, embracing a forward-looking approach that harnesses the transformative power of science and technology for the betterment of society,” said Du Toit.

South Africa and the Czech Republic are expected to sign a bilateral agreement that will enable the establishment of long-term relations in STI and serve as a cornerstone for progress in both countries.

Meanwhile, South Africa will host a delegation of Czech Republic start-ups in November 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 03/06/2024 - 10:29

112 views

6 March 2024

SA ranks number 1 in Africa for safety systems in aviation

Location: News

SA ranks number 1 in Africa for safety systems in aviation

The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has rated South Africa’s safety oversight system at 91.11% thereby placing it at number one in Africa and number 18 in the world, alongside Norway.

Addressing a media briefing on the state of the aviation sector on Tuesday, Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga said the ICAO also did not raise any significant safety and security concerns in both the safety and security audits, which happened within eight months of each other.

In the past two to three years, South Africa has participated in four key international safety and security audits and assessments by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the United States safety and security regulators namely, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as well as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

“I am elated to announce that South Africa performed very well in all these audits and assessments. The US-Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recognised South Africa's safety oversight system as meeting ICAO’s safety standards and recommended practices and therefore confirmed that South Africa retains its Category 1 status with the standards of the United States International Oversight Safety Audit (IOSA) Programme.

“The Transport Security Administration granted South Africa’s cargo security system permanent recognition following an assessment of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). South Africa still holds the European Union (EU) recognition for the States cargo security system,” Chikunga said in Pretoria.

The Minister said these outcomes do not only validate the quality of South Africa’s global aviation footprint, but it also confirms that South Africa's systems are competing favourably with the best in the world of aviation.

“South Africa is proud of the continued 0% fatal accident rate held in the commercial airlines sector for nearly four decades. Our target is to maintain this record for decades to come. One of the current administration’s strategic targets is to reduce accidents in the general aviation sector by 50%.

“At the end of the previous 2022/23 financial year, the number of accidents had decreased from 147 to 113 accidents, which translated into a 23% decrease from the 2021/22 period. The fatal accidents decreased from 12 to 9 fatal accidents, translating into a 25% decrease with the number of fatalities decreasing by 29.4%,” the Minister said.

During the 2021/22 period at the height of COVID-19, South Africa recorded a spike in accidents in a non-scheduled private flying space. This has been attributed to pilots being “out of practice” caused by a lack of refresher training during the hard lock down periods of the pandemic.

“As we head towards closing off this 2023/24 financial year, we have recorded 97 accidents to date. While we are projecting these numbers to marginally be lower than the previous reporting period, the number of fatal accidents has increased to 13, which is four more than data from the 2022/23 financial year.

“To curb these accidents which happen in a non-scheduled private flying space, the SACAA has developed and implemented a General Aviation Safety Strategy in consultation with the industry where we are employing reputable safety strategies to attain a reduction in both categories - accidents and fatalities,” she said.

SACAA has been on an automation journey migrating their internal business processes to ensure a paperless entity.

In the last year, the regulator has launched an eServices portal where operators can submit their certificate renewal applications online and also pay online.

“In August 2022, the South African National Blood Services was licensed to deliver blood and essential medical samples, using drones in what became a ground-breaking achievement for the country. The value of this initiative is understated, more so when we consider that 32% of South Africans live in rural, and in most cases, hard-to-reach destinations.

“Blood delivery to local clinics that may not be accessible by road transport is now possible and has now been made easier and much faster to access. This is an innovative step in the history of blood transportation. Every second you gain in saving a life is critical,” the Minister said.

International Air Service Licensing

As of 1 February 2024, the regulator is administering the domestic and international air service licensing councils.

“This means that all administrative support will include developing effective systems that will enable the smooth processing of air service license applications and Foreign Operator Permits (FOPs) and includes the issuance and storage of related information thereof.

“The Department of Transport will still be responsible for the budget allocation to the respective Councils for each financial year, and such allocation shall be used towards the activities and functions of the Councils,” the Minister said.

Since this decision took effect from 1 February 2024, SACAA launched an automated system, which is done in a phased approach.

“The first phase, which commenced from 01 February, saw the processing of foreign operators permits through a newly developed system. The next phase, which is currently in progress, is to automate the submission and processing of domestic and international air service licences. In the interim, the SACAA has given clarity to the industry in how the applications for air service licence will be processed until automation is implemented,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 12:20

730 views

5 March 2024

R21.7 billion allocated for airport infrastructure development

Location: News

R21.7 billion allocated for airport infrastructure development

The Airports Company of South Africa Limited (ACSA) has earmarked R21.7 billion for the development of airport infrastructure.

This investment primarily targets refurbishments, efficiency improvements, and statutory compliance measures, with the aim of enhancing asset availability, airport safety and passenger experiences across airports.

Addressing a media briefing on the state of the aviation sector, Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga said this was the largest capital investment programme by ACSA since preparing for the 2010 World Cup.

“This will see our already world class airports increasing the airport facilities to continue leading as Africa’s best airports and increasing our position globally. Over the next two years, ACSA plans to embark on crucial capacity expansion projects at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (Gqeberha) and George Airport, focusing on expansion of their terminal facilities.

“The terminal expansion project at George Airport is set to commence at the earliest opportunity due to the airport passenger throughput having passed its design capacity pre-COVID-19. This will be followed by Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport within the next year or two.

“Furthermore, ACSA is set to embark on the development of a new cargo terminal, known as Mid-field Cargo, at O.R Tambo International Airport on a prioritised basis given the demand and later the development of a Mid-field Passenger Terminal.

“Other significant projects at O.R Tambo International Airport will include extension of the bussing gates, which will entail adding six new bussing gates to the existing Terminal A bussing terminal, along with augmenting retail, seating, and holding lounge areas,” the Minister said.

Additionally, as part of phase 2 of this project, a new mezzanine level will be constructed to enhance circulation and optimise seating and holding space.

“At Cape Town International Airport, priority will be the domestic arrivals terminal reconfiguration to meet growing capacity needs. This encompasses enlarging the meet and greet area, expansion of the baggage claim area, an additional baggage carousel, expansion of the domestic departures lounge, retail spaces, and ablution facilities, as well as the addition of three new contact gates and fixed boarding bridges.

“Secondly, the initiation and development of the realigned runway development project is anticipated within permission period,” Chikunga said.

King Shaka International Airport will see the development of a hotel, given that it is a relatively new airport, with terminal expansion during the final year of the permission period.

At King Phalo airport, the focus during the permission period will be on expansion of the departure lounge, relocation of the security check point, upgrading of ablution facilities, improving retail options in the departure lounge, and adding offices and lounge space on the first floor.

“ACSA continues to diligently review the master plans of its airports, driven by twofold objectives: to meet the current infrastructure needs while also ensuring preparedness to fulfil future demands.

“This ongoing process is crucial in strengthening the foundation for a resilient air transport system for South Africa, a cornerstone for advancing our country's economic development and growth,” the Minister said.

In the year 2022/23, the Air Traffic and Navigation Services SOC Limited (ATNS) invested R128 million in support of its goal of having reliable and stable air traffic management infrastructure, which ultimately boosts the country’s aviation economy and contributes up to 3% to the national gross domestic product (GDP).

“In ATNS’ pursuit of more essential infrastructure upgrades to ensure that the entity is future-fit to continue delivering on its national mandate, up to R155 million is required in the next financial year for investment into its Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Network (AFTN),” the Minister said.

Air Cargo innovations

As part of innovations within the sector to enhance efficiency and competitiveness, eAirwaybill have been introduced in air cargo industry.

Innovations such as real-time tracking systems, data analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence can streamline operations, improve visibility, and optimise resource allocation.

“Embracing this digitalisation can only lead to greater transparency, cost savings and a better customer experience within this space.

“While we also embrace innovation, we are equally mindful of cyber threats. Cybersecurity is essential for maintaining the integrity, safety, and resilience of the aviation system. We are collaborating more to effectively mitigate risks and enhance cybersecurity across the sector.

“The truth of the matter is that the future of freight is digital; and that is our reality. Therefore, a robust air cargo system is essential for global trade, speed, efficiency, connectivity, supply chain resilience, economic growth, and the timely delivery of essential goods and services,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 12:55

554 views

5 March 2024

Celebrating 21 years of PR prowess: A Founder’s journey of success

Location: MyPR

As Red Ribbon Communications commemorates its remarkable 21-year journey in the PR industry, founder Ronelle Bester reflects on the factors contributing to making it one of the most successful independent PR agencies in South Africa. In an era where the digital landscape undergoes rapid transformations, enduring for over two decades is a significant feat. “We’ve …

5 March 2024

In the race to digital wallets, don’t forget cash (By Juan Seco)

Location: News

Mukuru
Download logo

Success in the digital payment space will hinge on the ability of new players and incumbents to converge the physical and digital experience into a seamless continuum for the customer. Extending the digital solution to a cash-based customer requires a “phygital” approach, writes Juan Seco, Chief Growth Officer at Mukuru (www.Mukuru.com).

Digital wallet use, especially in Africa, makes sense when so many people live in rural areas where there isn't easy access to another way of accessing money, such as through ATMs. Bank of America predicts that (https://apo-opa.co/49Y1X7z) by 2026, digital wallets will be used by more than 5.3-billion people, which is more than 50% of the world's population. Other estimates suggest this number may even be as high as two-thirds of the world's population, growth that is being driven by emerging markets, particularly African economies.

Globally, the main driver for digital products was COVID-19, which forced people indoors and encouraged the use of digital products. This, says Bank of America, was particularly prevalent globally among older customers and those who had previously stuck to traditional ways of purchasing goods or banking.

In Africa, the local e-payments market is likely to see revenues gain by around 20% percent a year, according to McKinsey (https://apo-opa.co/49PsfJ8). This means that the market will be worth about $40-billion by 2025. By comparison, the global market is expected to grow at 7% a year over the same time.

However, cash is still king. McKinsey (https://apo-opa.co/49PsfJ8) says that while digital is growing rapidly as a payment form, cash is still used for 90% of all transactions on the continent, adding that because cash still dominates, offline channels and large cash network points such as Mukuru's 320,000 access points where people can interact with cash at a booth or through an agent are still vital.

It is also important to recognise that not having a smartphone or access to 4G shouldn't be a limiting factor for financial inclusion, which is why making use of USSD and WhatsApp (which consumes less data) is often a critical factor determining whether a financial service provider will be relevant in many African markets.

Convergence and continuum from cash to digital

As eWallets have evolved, they have moved on from being a cash-in and cash-out system to a system that enables and unlocks financial inclusion digitally. The transition happened organically because trust was built over time on the ability to move and store cash seamlessly, making life easier for cash-based customers. As trust grew, more digital financial products have been offered to customers. As customers transact, they build a financial record that can unlock multiple products, as well as access to credit.

At Mukuru, we have remained focused on this layering of services, underpinned by trust and market education. As customers have become more digitally savvy, we were able to offer insurance and then loans, leveraging the customer's transaction history to assess their credit capacity.

McKinsey calls this Wallet 2.0 and points out that there is now a move to Wallet 3.0, which is an offering that adds in-app shopping.

Mukuru customers can access multiple billers through digital channels, such as airtime, utilities or DSTV, and more services will be added in the future. The objective is to enable the other side of the equation, so to speak, by empowering merchants whose customers have more solutions and options to use their digitally stored money.

In practice, we have found that most merchants still prefer cash due to its immediacy and perceived lower cost of business — they have to pay to accept card or mobile money and sometimes that payment is not received until several days after the transaction.

The International Monetary Fund (https://apo-opa.co/49D6NaB) says that the informal economy is a large part of most economies in sub-Saharan Africa. This sector accounts for between 25% and 65% of GDP, and between 30% and 90% percent of all non-agricultural employment. This situation is not likely to change any time soon and so merchants would do well to offer both digital and cash options, in other words take a phygital approach, to take advantage of the growth opportunity in sub-Saharan Africa.

Transforming a cash-based economy into a digital one requires multiple actors in the economy to act in unison, but when done deliberately, it becomes an extension of people's natural behaviour, taking them from cashing out transfers to the realisation they can store money digitally, transfer it to another person or seamlessly pay for any goods or services.

However, without understanding that cash still plays an important role in this process, those who only operate in the digital space will be confined to a niche market and be left behind in Africa's fast-paced digital revolution.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mukuru.

About Mukuru:
Mukuru is a leading next generation financial services platform in Southern Africa that offers affordable and reliable financial services to a customer base of over 13 million across Africa, Asia and Europe.

With over 100 million transactions to date, our core was built providing international money transfers and from this base, we've developed a set of services to address the broader financial needs of our customers. We now operate in over 50 countries and across over 300 remittance corridors.

We are a business that puts the customer at the centre of everything we do, and for that reason, we serve clients across physical and digital channels, by various payment methods (cash, card, wallet) as well as a range of engagement platforms including WhatsApp, USSD, contact centre, App, website, agents and a branch and booth network.

Mukuru has, for the fourth consecutive year, been listed as one of the top 100 Cross Border Payments businesses in the world in the 2023 FXC Intelligence Top 100 Cross-Border Payment Companies (https://apo-opa.co/48HwI0k), one of only six African companies to receive this accolade.

In April 2023, Mukuru officially ranked sixth on the 2023 LinkedIn Top Companies List in South Africa.

Further information can be found at www.Mukuru.com.

5 March 2024

SA commemorates World Obesity Day

Location: News

SA commemorates World Obesity Day

As the country joins the global community to mark World Obesity Day, the Department of Health has urged people to engage in regular physical activity and follow a balanced eating plan.

World Obesity Day is aimed at raising awareness and improving understanding of obesity root causes and actions needed to address them, and tackling the associated stigma.

Obesity has become one of the biggest health crises faced by people today around the world.

According to the World Health Organization, obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, claiming at least 2.8 million lives annually, while 1 in 8 people in the world were living with obesity in 2022.

“Evidence shows that interventions (such as improved diet and physical activity) introduced to tackle obesity have the potential benefits to reduce the incidence of NCDs and its burden on healthcare spending, individuals and their families.

“The Department of Health urges people to engage in regular physical activity; drink [sufficient] water; serve the correct amount of food to avoid overeating; limit the consumption of foods and drinks high in sugar, salt and fat, and snack on fresh vegetables and fruits instead of salty snacks or sugary treats,” the department said in a statement.

The department highlighted that the rise in obesity poses a serious challenge to public health worldwide, with South Africa being amongst the countries with the highest overweight and obesity rates.

According to the 2016 national survey, 68% of women and 31% of men are either overweight or obese, while 13% of children under the age of 5 are overweight.

In terms of obesity, at least 41% of women have obesity, with 20% of them falling in the severe obesity category. In contrast, only 11% of men have obesity. The prevalence of obesity among women rose from 27% in 1998 to 41% in 2016. There was very little change in obesity amongst men, with only a 2% increase during the same period.

“These worrying figures underscore the need for effective prevention interventions to address obesity and promote healthier lifestyles and setting nutrition standards for food and beverages provided in places like Early Child Development Centres, schools, community nutrition development centres and other feeding programmes,” the department said.

The department said the increased prevalence of overweight and obesity among people contributes to the onset of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and cancer, which are currently the biggest threats to health and development among populations.

Women with obesity are at increased risk of miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, induced labour, and are less likely to initiate breastfeeding. On the other hand, obese men are at a higher risk of developing cancers of the colon, rectum and erectile dysfunction.

“The words obesity and overweight are often confused and used interchangeably. However, these are two related health conditions with slightly different meanings. Overweight is when a body mass index (a value derived from the mass and height of a person) is greater than or equal to 25, whereas obesity is a BMI greater than or equal to 30,” the department explained.

The department said while many people exercise day and night to keep fit and healthy, it is important to know the 80/20 rule for weight loss, which emphasises that nutrition contributes 80% and routine exercise contributes only 20% when it comes to losing weight.

“This means that as long as you don’t make healthier food choices, physical activities will do less to reduce obesity.

“The department urges employers to support efforts by government and other stakeholders by creating healthy and productive working environments for employees as part of health and wellness programmes.

“This includes establishing wellness centres and serving healthier food menus in their canteens,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 11:54

653 views

4 March 2024

Skin cancer vs skin colour – More melanin may mean more protection, but risks remain.

Location: MyPR

As summer wanes, South Africans are advised to always exercise caution when out and about. Skin cancer ranks as one of the most common cancers in South Africa, but what does that mean for a country with such a diverse array of skin colours? According to Functional Head: Oncology Management Dr Jenni Noble at the …

4 March 2024

Celebrating 30 years of human rights

Location: News

Celebrating 30 years of human rights

The year 2024 coincides with several historic milestones in the nation’s fight for fundamental human rights and freedoms, says Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa.

“South Africans from all walks of life will be participating in the seventh National Elections since the dawn of democracy and the country, in April, will be celebrating 30 years of democracy in South Africa,” the Minister said on Monday in Pretoria.

He was addressing the launch of Human Rights Month, which is taking place under the theme: “Three Decades of Respect For and Promotion of Human Rights.”

Human Rights Month is observed to remind South Africans about the sacrifices that accompanied the struggle for the attainment of democracy.

“Overall, Human Rights Month serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to uphold and protect human rights for all individuals worldwide. It encourages reflection, action, and solidarity in the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.

“From 1994 to date, South Africa underwent a radical transition from the oppressive apartheid regime, with its system founded on parliamentary sovereignty, to a constitutional democracy committed to the creation of a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights,” the Minister said.

Outlining the programme for Human Rights Month, he said the commemoration of the National Human Rights Day is planned for 21 March 2024 at the George Thabe Stadium, in Sharpeville.

“The hosting of the event in Sharpeville symbolises government’s commitment to honour sacrifices made by those who fought and died for our liberation in Sharpeville and other townships across the land. It makes sense that we take the commemoration of the day to the place where it originated.

“On 21 March, the national Human Rights Day is commemorated to honour the Sharpeville massacre of 1960 where peaceful protestors marched against discriminatory pass laws and were fatally shot by police. The Sharpeville massacre stands as a potent symbol of the brutal realities of apartheid.

“Sharpeville's historical significance extended beyond its national borders, receiving global attention, which culminated in the United Nations (UN) Security Council passing a resolution condemning the killings and calling for the South African government to abandon its policy of apartheid and the UN General Assembly declaring apartheid as a violation of the UN Charter,” the Minister said.

Six years after the massacre, the UN declared March 21 to be the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

“The Sharpeville massacre galvanised the anti-apartheid movement both within South Africa and internationally. It energized resistance efforts and led to increased solidarity among activists and organizations working towards the dismantling of apartheid.

“The massacre served as a catalyst for global awareness of the oppressive nature of apartheid and prompted increased international pressure on the South African government. Over the following decades, the anti-apartheid movement gained momentum, ultimately contributing to the dismantling of apartheid in the early 1990s.”

Activities

The Minister called on all South Africans to participate in the activities planned for Human Rights Month.

“This year’s National Human Rights Day will be preceded by an International National Human Rights Conference, bringing together key stakeholders from across the globe as well as other government departments, to assess progress on the advancement of human rights since 1994.

“The Conference will be hosted by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development from the 18th to 20th of March 2024 and is premised on the department’s core mandate to uphold and administer the Constitution, deepening constitutional democracy, and promoting the values of human dignity, equality and the advancement of human rights and freedoms,” the Minister said.

Through this Conference, South Africa will conduct critical assessment of its state of human rights almost three decades into its constitutional democracy.

“There will be other activations across the country, amongst others, the Social Cohesion Dialogue to be hosted by the Eastern Cape province in Gqeberha on the 20th of March.

“Panellists in this programme include leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to building bridges across diverse communities. Amongst them will be Dr Brigalia Bam, former Chairperson of IEC and Dr Bonisile John Kani and Ms Rochelle de Kock from [the] Herald Newspaper,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 12:12

261 views

4 March 2024

SA Team Ready For DICC T20 World Cup

Location: Sport

JOHANNESBURG: Deaf Cricket South Africa (DCSA) has proudly capped their official squad for the much-anticipated DICC T20 World Cup UAE...

3 March 2024

Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Location: News

Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams will host the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC+Africa) in Cape Town from 13 - 14 March.

The Department of Small Business Development has partnered with 22 on Sloane and other public and private sector players, who are committed to advancing entrepreneurial activity on the continent, to stage GEC+Africa 2024.

GEC+Africa is a gathering of entrepreneurs, thought leaders and practitioners, who have become part of the global movement that advances entrepreneurship as a vehicle for building economies and expanding access to a better life for all.

Over 1 500 delegates from more than 50 African nations are expected to participate during the congress. This will include start-ups; small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs); investors; policymakers and organisations that support entrepreneurship development.

GEC+Africa will seek to achieve some of the following objectives:

- Support the development of innovative start-ups and SMMEs in Africa.

- Create an enabling environment for African entrepreneurs to create jobs.

- Create market linkages for African start-ups and SMMEs.

- Support the development of a credible global investor pipeline that will invest in African start-ups and SMMEs.

- Establish a strong GEC-affiliated organisation in each African country to build and strengthen its entrepreneurship ecosystem.

According to the Department of Small Business Development, GEC+Africa will be a platform to showcase the significant progress the country has made in producing some of the most innovative and successful entrepreneurs on the continent.

“South Africa has one of the most mature start-up ecosystems in Africa, with stronger supporting institutions,” the department said in a statement.

“The Department of Small Business Development will continue to work with its partners to create an enabling environment for the growth and sustainability of small enterprises, and to strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 10:31

830 views

1 March 2024

Pandor travels to Türkiye for Antalya Diplomacy Forum

Location: News

Pandor travels to Türkiye for Antalya Diplomacy Forum

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Dr Naledi Pandor will participate in the 3rd Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) in Antalya in the Republic of Türkiye.

“The Minister will use the opportunity of her visit to Antalya to hold a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan,” DIRCO said on Friday.

The ADF, which is scheduled to take place from 1 – 3 March 2024, is attended by Heads of State and Government, foreign ministers, high-level officials, diplomats, non-government organisations, media and the business community from around the world.

This year’s forum takes place under the overarching theme, 'Advancing Diplomacy in Times of Turmoil'.

Pandor is scheduled to participate as a panellist on the topic, 'Understanding the Global South', on Saturday 2 March at 1:30 pm.

Other topics to be discussed during the forum include:

The Gaza Contact Group.
Building Blocks for Permanent Peace in the Middle East.
Realising the Potential of Africa.

On the sidelines of the ADF, the First Lady of the Republic of Turkey, Madam Emine Erdogan, will host a High-Level Session on Women, Peace and Security. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 09:33

579 views

1 March 2024

DWS kick-starts National Water Month

Location: News

DWS kick-starts National Water Month

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) will be embarking on advocacy programmes as part of National Water Month.

Today, the department kick-starts National Water Month, which is conceptualised along the annual commemoration of World Water Day.

World Water Day is spearheaded by the United Nations (UN) and is observed on 22 March.

The UN uses World Water Day to focus attention on the global water crisis and raise awareness of the 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water, with the aim of aspiring nations to commit to long-term action.

This is to ensure that everyone in the world has access to safe water by 2030, while not impacting the environment.

World Water Day also brings attention to the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

This year’s Water Day will be observed under the theme, 'Leveraging Water for Peace', which encourages communities and countries to use water as a tool for peace, when cooperating over this precious shared resource.

The theme also highlights that water can spark and intensify conflict when access is denied and usage unfairly shared.

The department said National Water Month will be used to reflect and deliver the department’s mandate in response to these challenges, with the strategies to avoid the projected deficit.

Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately-owned land

The ministerial launch of the Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately owned land, scheduled to take place in KwaZulu-Natal, will be the highlight of this year’s National Water Month.

“The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, will launch this holistic policy with the intention of unifying and simplifying the provision and regulation of sustainable and equitable water services to residents living on privately-owned land,” the department said.

The month-long activities will also see Mchunu visiting Limpopo to assess progress on the Giyani Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which will benefit 24 villages.

This follows his commitment to accelerate the project through, among others, optimisation of the Giyani water treatment works to its original capacity and increase the project scope to ensure 55 villages benefit from the scheme. This is through funds allocated for reticulation and expanding access to yard connections.

To this end, the department said 24 villages are in various stages of construction and some of the villages will soon be receiving water in their taps.

“Minister Mchunu will also meet with his four counterparts from Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to sign the amendment of the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) by the four riparian States which share the Limpopo River Basin and use water from the river to support various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, tourism, energy generation, as well as for domestic use.

“The agreement signed in 2003, will be amended to formalise the establishment of the LIMCOM Council of Ministers to be the main policy and decision-making body on transboundary, water resource management issues in the Limpopo River Basin,” the department said.

The department has reiterated its call to all South Africans to make a difference by changing the way they use, drink and manage water in their respective lives.

“South Africa is a dry and water-scarce country with an average annual rainfall of 470mm compared to the global annual average of 814mm. Thus, it has limited water availability, which is diminishing compared to other countries,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:58

756 views

1 March 2024

African academic sector preps for 40th AEAA conference

Location: News

African academic sector preps for 40th AEAA conference

Umalusi CEO Dr Mafu Rakometsi says the EXCO of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) is satisfied with the progress made in preparation of the hosting of the 40th AEAA Annual Conference in August.

The CEO was delivering remarks on Friday at a media briefing on the state of readiness for the hosting of the conference.

“Earlier today, Umalusi presented a report to the EXCO [executive committee] of the AEAA detailing progress made to date and the tasks that still need to be undertaken for the successful hosting of the 40th AEAA Annual Conference. I can confidently report that the EXCO of the AEAA is satisfied with the progress made,” Rakometsi said.

Umalusi is preparing to host the AEAA annual conference from 19 to 23 August 2024 at the Century City Conference Centre and Hotel in Cape Town. The conference will be held under the theme, 'Reimagining educational assessment in the age of multiple dimensions of learning in a global society'.

The AEAA plays a crucial role in facilitating member institutions to uphold best practices in educational assessment.

Rakometsi said that having hosted the 21st AEAA Conference back in 2003 in Cape Town, during the formative years of Umalusi, they feel privileged and honoured that the EXCO of the AEAA decided to bring back the conference to South Africa, 21 years later.

Rakometsi said this is a special birthday present for Umalusi because the 40th AEAA Conference is taking place just after the body celebrated two decades of its existence.

“... It is anticipated that the conference will attract upwards of 300 delegates, comprising assessment specialists, university academics and scholars, educationists, and policy makers from the African continent, Australia, Europe, the United Kingdom, and United States of America.

“This will provide us an invaluable opportunity to, within the context of complex and unequal educational contexts, discuss and debates various issues of mutual interest for Umalusi and the other education systems of the world,” the CEO said.

Rakometsi called on Umalusi partners in South Africa to support the conference by making it possible for the relevant officials to put together abstracts and papers for the consideration of the organising committee. He extended the same call to its partners continentally and globally.

The partners include the Department of Basic Education (DBE), Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Independent Examinations Board, South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI), Independent Schooling Sector, Private Further Education and Training Colleges and Adult Education and Training Colleges.

“In terms of its format, the main conference will be preceded by a workshop on assessment-related topic to build capacity amongst assessment practitioners. There will be ample opportunity for interested organisations to exhibit their services and products to the approximately 300 conference participants,” the CEO said.

Delivering his remarks during the media briefing, President of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA), Dr. David Njengere, appealed to all organisations involved in education and assessment in Africa and across the world to support the conference in whatever way possible.

He emphasised that one of the success factors for especially AEAA conferences is the support business entities sponsor and exhibit their services and products to conference delegates.

“In this regard, we are calling on all interested entities to partner with Umalusi and show case their products and services.

“Based on the report presented by Umalusi, the EXCO of the AEAA is satisfied with the progress made in preparation for the conference. We have no doubt that we are going to have a memorable conference in Cape Town in August this year,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 15:58

129 views

1 March 2024

DWS kickstarts National Water Month