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Peanut butter is a beloved staple in many households, known for its creamy texture, rich flavour, and versatility in the kitchen. From satisfying snacks to gourmet dishes, peanut butter offers endless possibilities. The Essence of Peanut Butter: A Culinary Delight Peanut butter’s popularity is no surprise, given its delicious taste and nutritional benefits. It …
In event management, creating memorable and immersive experiences is paramount. One technique that has revolutionised the way events are orchestrated is projection mapping. This innovative technology transforms ordinary surfaces into dynamic displays, captivating audiences and elevating the overall event atmosphere. Understanding Projection Mapping Projection mapping, also known as spatial augmented reality, involves projecting images, …
Introduction Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular as a sustainable energy solution. With the growing concern for the environment and rising energy costs, many people are considering solar panels for sale as a viable option. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of solar panels and why they are a smart investment. Understanding …
Introduction When it comes to versatile and durable wooden structures, Wendys Online stands out as a leading provider in Gauteng. Offering a wide range of wooden Wendy houses, the company has established a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and excellent customer service. This article delves into the offerings of Wendys Online, highlighting their commitment to …
On 1 August 2024, iSchoolAfrica (www.iSchoolAfrica.com) proudly commemorates 15 years of driving educational change across South Africa. Since its inception, iSchoolAfrica has leveraged the world's best technology and educational practices to reduce inequalities, enhance opportunities for exceptional employment, and stimulate economic growth.
iSchoolAfrica's 15 years of success and sustainability stem from an unwavering commitment to making quality technology affordable and accessible. A key element of the programme is the rotation of mobile iPad labs from classroom to classroom – ensuring accessibility, security, longevity, usability, and durability.
The technology solution has a remarkable 5% failure rate, which demonstrates the reliability and durability of their technology. With iPads lasting an estimated 5-6 years within school environments, iSchoolAfrica ensures minimal downtime in schools, contributing to uninterrupted learning and significant cost savings on technical support. This is boosted by the iPads' Mobile Device Management system, which allows for quick and easy remote support.
By upskilling and empowering project champions to execute programs independently, iSchoolAfrica ensures lasting, impactful education solutions with zero compromise on quality and best practices. The fact that there is no compromise gives educators and learners alike the confidence that they matter and this is seen through the improved engagement and performance of the students.
“Over the last 15 years, against all odds we've achieved some incredible things, inspiring teachers to love their jobs again, helping children discover their love of learning through iPad lessons, while sparking hope for countless young learners' futures,“ says Michelle Lissoos, Executive Director of iSchoolAfrica.
Through strategic collaborations with partners, iSchoolAfrica equips South Africa's youth with the tools needed to thrive. The initiative focuses on under-resourced township and rural schools, from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Grade 12, including mainstream and special needs education. Each school receives a secure mobile lab of 20 iPads, loaded with curriculum software and teacher training and mentoring. The built-in accessibility features of iPads also support children with disabilities, ensuring inclusive education for all.
Another key aspect to iSchoolAfrica's endurance has been the partnerships it has formed along the way. Growthpoint is one such long-term partner, having supported over 25 schools since 2014.
Commenting on their involvement, head of Growthpoint CSR Shawn Theunissen, says: “In order for us to provide support for education, we also needed to ensure that we provide a digital solution. You want to ensure that you are future proofing the youth of South Africa.”
Since its launch, iSchoolAfrica has reached all nine provinces in South Africa, impacting 341 schools and training over 3,000 teachers — impacting over 100,000 learners. Later this year, in partnership with the Imbeleko Foundation, they plan to launch the first Apple Training Authorised Centre in Africa, located in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Key Educational Programmes
iSchoolAfrica is focused on four key educational programmes. These include:
1. Early Learning
Recognising the critical importance of a child's early years, iSchoolAfrica integrates technology into preschool and Grade R to help teachers address core developmental skills essential for young learners. The Early Learning Programme supports the NCF and CAPS curriculum frameworks through interactive social stories and learn-through-play activities.
2. Numeracy and Literacy
iSchoolAfrica addresses South Africa's literacy and numeracy crisis by ensuring learners grasp foundational skills. Partnering with the Unlocking Talent Through Technology Initiative, iSchoolAfrica brings the one billion numeracy programme to primary schools, achieving an average increase of 15% in numeracy results since 2009.
3. Disability and Inclusion
The Inclusion Programme provides solutions for children with various disabilities, including autism, low vision, and cerebral palsy. With 36 special needs schools, iSchoolAfrica has the distinction of having the first Apple Distinguished Special Needs School in the world. Collaborations with CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA and CORE have also helped introduce iPads to hospital schools in Gauteng, supporting paediatric oncology patients' education during treatment.
“We have seen a total change in the nature of our learners. They have become a lot more disciplined, creative and enthusiastic. Our kids now have a sense of pride. It empowers them,” says Ishwarlal Reggie, Deputy Principal, MCK Special School.
4. Coding and Robotics
Empowering learners to become innovators, leaders, and builders of their futures, iSchoolAfrica introduces coding and robotics through Apple's Everyone Can Code Curriculum. This program, spanning from ECD to higher education, exposes learners to coding and app design via interactive puzzles and code walkthroughs.
“As iSchoolAfrica celebrates this milestone, our commitment to educational excellence and reducing inequalities remains stronger than ever. We look forward to continuing this journey of empowering South Africa's youth and transforming the educational landscape for years to come,” concludes Lissoos.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of iSchoolAfrica.
NOTE TO EDITORS
MEDIA CONTACT:
Ima Peter
+27 11 268 6388
ima.peter@razorpr.co.za
About iSchoolAfrica:
Since 2009, iSchoolAfrica has provided over 100 000 South African learners, from ECD to Grade 12, with state-of-the-art technology and education practices. Together with our partners, school leaders and educators, we have changed teaching and learning in the most under resourced and vulnerable communities across South Africa, giving youth the opportunity to learn, create and succeed.
Impact and Awards
· Active in nine provinces
· 341 schools in the programme
· 300+ trained teachers
· 200+ rural youth facilitators
· 500+ trained media changemakers
• 22 Excellence in Education Awards
• 2023 Foundation Disability Empowerment Award
• 2023 Gauteng Women's Excellence Award for Innovation
• 2018 New Generation Award
• 2017 Eduweek Award, Inclusion
Programmes
• Early Learning
• Numeracy and Literacy
• Disability and Inclusion
• Coding and Robotics
• Media Changemaker
President Ramaphosa assents to IPID Amendment Bill
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) Amendment Bill has been signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
According to the Presidency, the new law is aimed at “affirming the institutional and operational independence” of IPID and empowers the directorate to “investigate serious alleged offences committed by police officers, whether they were off duty or not”.
“The new law entrenches the institutional and operational independence of IPID and makes it clear that the directorate must be independent, impartial and must exercise its powers and functions without fear, favour or prejudice.
“This amended law gives effect to an earlier Constitutional Court judgment in the McBride v Minister of Police and Another matter, which invalidated provisions in the IPID Act that enabled the Minister of Police to take disciplinary measures against the Executive Director of IPID without parliamentary oversight,” the Presidency said.
The newly assented to law also amends provisions in certain appointments, what the IPID can investigate and savings provisions for officials working in that office.
This includes:
“The newly enacted Independent Police Investigative Directorate Amendment Act is an outcome of a comprehensive review of the principal IPID Act of 2011 initiated by the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service.
“The Civilian Secretariat provides the Minister of Police with policy advice and research support; develops departmental policy; provides civilian oversight of the South African Police Service and mobilises stakeholders outside the department around crime prevention and policing matters,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 07/31/2024 - 15:21
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law legislation affirming the institutional and operational independence of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and empowering IPID to investigate serious alleged offences committed by police officers whether they were off duty or not.
The newly enacted Independent Police Investigative Directorate Amendment Act is an outcome of a comprehensive review of the principal IPID Act of 2011 initiated by the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service.
The Civilian Secretariat provides the Minister of Police with policy advice and research support; develops departmental policy; provides civilian oversight of the South African Police Service and mobilises stakeholders outside the department around crime prevention and policing matters.
The new law entrenches the institutional and operational independence of IPID and makes it clear that the directorate must be independent, impartial and must exercise its powers and functions without fear, favour or prejudice.
This amended law gives effect to an earlier Constitutional Court judgment in the McBride v Minister of Police and Another matter which invalidated provisions in the IPID Act that enabled the Minister of Police to take disciplinary measures against the Executive Director of IPID without parliamentary oversight.
The updated legislation amends provisions relating to the appointment of the Executive Director of IPID and broadens the Executive Director's responsibilities in respect of the referral of recommendations on disciplinary matters.
The Amendment Act provides for pre-employment security screening investigations to be conducted by the directorate.
The law now empowers IPID to investigate any deaths caused by the actions of a member of the South African Police Service or a member of a municipal police service, whether such member was on or off duty.
IPID is enabled to investigate rape by a member of the SAPS or a member of a municipal police service, whether such member was on or off duty.
The law also provides for a savings provision in the conditions of service of existing IPID investigators and provincial heads.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Fund members urged to get financial advice on pension fund withdrawals
With the President signing into law the Pension Funds Amendment Act (31 of 2024), National Treasury has urged fund members to seek trustworthy financial advice to consider the implications for withdrawals from the savings component.
“Fund members should also note that administration costs and tax at marginal rates will be deducted from such withdrawals. Members will lose out on all related future growth and the retirement benefit originally intended for those funds,” National Treasury said on Tuesday.
The signing into law of the Pension Funds Amendment Act ushers in the last part of the significant amendments required to implement the two-pot system to commence on 1 September 2024 after proclamation by the President.
The Pension Funds Amendment Act provides for certain amendments to the Pension Funds Act, 1956, the Post and Telecommunications-related Matters Act, 1958, the Transnet Pension Funds Act, 1990 and the Government Employees Pension Law, 1996, which are necessary to enable retirement funds, including public sector funds, to implement the two-pot reform.
READ | President Ramaphosa signs Pension Funds Amendment Bill into law
These changes follow the related amendments to the Income Tax Act, which are contained in the Revenue Laws Amendment Act (12 of 2024).
“The main intention of the two-pot system reform is to improve South Africa’s retirement outcomes for members at retirement through the preservation of a larger portion of the retirement savings.
“At the same time the reform allows some measured access in cases of financial distress without a member having to resign from employment.
“The new two-pot retirement system creates a more sustainable retirement fund system, while increasing flexibility to cater to the differing needs of members. The system will provide a welcomed relief mechanism for people in real crises to access emergency funds without resorting to loan sharks or having to quit their jobs to access their retirement savings, while ensuring a larger portion of those savings are preserved until retirement,” National Treasury said.
Retirement funds and trustees are now in the process of aligning their fund rules with the changes to the acts and should be communicating with fund members about these rule changes and processes to be followed for savings benefit withdrawal claims.
Fund rule amendments still need to be submitted to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority for approval before implementation.
“Most funds are set to implement the new split for contributions to the two new components (i.e. savings component and retirement component) on 1 September 2024, as planned.
“They will also calculate the once-off seeding capital value using the vested component (i.e. retirement savings accumulated before implementation date) on 31 August 2024, that will be available for transfer to the savings component and accessible to members from 1 September 2024.
“However, not all funds will likely be able to process withdrawal requests immediately on 1 September 2024, as the systems to do so and the mechanics to request such withdrawals will still be new or are being installed. Funds that are ready for such withdrawals will also need some time to process requests,” National Treasury said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 07/30/2024 - 09:12
Saving is one of the most important aspects of personal financial management, offering many benefits and serving as a vital part of a sound financial strategy. However, saving is different from investing. Investing is an effective way to make your money work for you. Kerryn Campion, COO of Aions Exchange, states that, “Through smart investment …
By now you’ve probably heard that as of 1 September this year, National Treasury is introducing changes to the rules around accessing your retirement funds, known as the two-pot system. But what are these pots, why are there three pots in a two-pot system and what does this all mean for you? Natasha Huggett Henchie, …
Stian de Witt, Head of Financial Planning at financial advisory firm NMG Benefits, says that having honest conversations with your financial adviser isn’t just a right; it’s a responsibility. “In much the same way that you explain your health concerns to your doctor and then question the treatment plan, you should be comfortable sharing your …
The Awareness Company, founded by Priaash Ramadeen, Shazia Vawda, and Estelle Lubbe, brings together nearly six decades of collective experience in fields ranging from border control and defense to municipal processes and conservation. Their situational awareness software has been instrumental in protecting over 10,000 rhinos, utilized by more than 200 organizations worldwide. Ramadeen highlights the …
Solar geyser rollout benefits Woodyglen residents
The Woodyglen community in Hammarsdale in KwaZulu-Natal will now enjoy cost savings and reduced energy consumption as the area goes green following the installation of new solar geysers in their households.
In a move towards embracing green energy, the eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal has completed the installation of solar geysers in 700 homes in Woodyglen.
The project aims to significantly reduce electricity consumption and costs for residents.
Ward 6 councillor, Bless Majola, commended the project’s completion and announced plans for expansion of the project into other areas of the ward.
Majola said the municipality has ensured the transfer of skills during the installation process.
“Young people from the community have been trained to install and maintain the geysers, creating around 30 temporary jobs. We expect to employ more young people as the project progresses,” Majola said.
Project Manager of Gemmed Services, Lungelo Ngcobo, emphasised the geysers’ durability, with a lifespan of up to 15 years and a one-year warranty.
“Our work adheres to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy standards. Beyond installation, we prioritise skills transfer to empower the community for future maintenance needs,” Ngcobo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 12:04
What's your flavour?
A venture that started as a passion project for creating ice cream recipes to indulge friends and family during a difficult period in the life of a former architect, has evolved into a successful artisanal ice cream business.
With a presence at various SUPERSPAR outlets, popular stockists, hotel groups and high-end restaurants, the Johannesburg-based business plans to grow its customer base to offer premium ice cream to consumers in various cities in the country.
Established in 2019 by Kamal Manilal, Roska Artisan Ice Cream has experienced a steady growth, enabling it to employ 12 people.
Manilal started making ice cream in his home with an ice cream machine he had received as a gift from a friend 14 years prior.
“Just before the COVID-19 pandemic, I was going through a rough patch in my career. There were quite a few retrenchments that were being implemented. It was a very taxing time in my life as I had just lost my father.”
At the time, he had also recently completed his Master of Business Administration.
“One morning as I was on Facebook and a picture of an ice-cream machine appeared on my feed.”
This inspired Manilal to use his ice-cream maker and explore recipes.
“I started making ice cream and I took it to work for tasting. I started getting orders,” he said.
In March 2020, Manilal posted pictures of the ice cream on Instagram, which generated interest from consumers. This move took his business to greater heights.
“Before I knew it, I was making ice-cream at home. In October 2021, I realised that I needed more space so I decided to move into a commercial property to start making ice cream on a bigger scale. Since that time, we have on-boarded 140 customers and we are now in our second premises because we outgrew the first premises,” he said.
The journey of building Roska Artisan Ice Cream has not been easy as there were hurdles that the business had to overcome.
“The biggest challenge is cash flow. To start the business, we needed to have an investor to fund freezer rooms, generators and facilities. Cash flow is very important because sometimes you are not paid on time but the business still needs to cover the expenses for production, rental and utilities. We also used our corporate savings to fund the business to buy the machines that we needed,” he said.
Manilal co-founded the business with his wife Roshni Morar, who has played a fundamental role in positioning the business's brand.
With capital being essential in running a business, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) funded the expansion and growth of the business for about 30% while a private investor paid for the rest.
“The highlight of our journey has been moving into our second premises. We have proper facilities that include offices, freezer rooms for storage, and an industrial generator. When we showcased the product at the Paris Food Show, the chief executive officer of Checkers saw our product and offered our company an opportunity to work with them. We now have a store inside the Checkers Hyper in Sandton City,” he concluded.
For more information about Roska Artisan Ice Cream visit www.roska.co.za. Log on to www.thedtic.gov.za if you would like to find out about financial assistance for your business.
*This story first appeared in Vukuzenzele
Janine
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 12:14
The Crazy Store marks another milestone with crazy birthday deals! It’s The Crazy Store’s 27th birthday and they will be celebrating with fantastic offers! Young or old, you are invited to join the party. The Crazy Store is cranking it up, so be sure to take advantage of their crazy savings. From shadow box picture …
A father of three can sleep comfortably on his back for the first time in 15 years after having a massive tumor – weighing 11lbs (5kgs) – removed by surgical charity Mercy Ships (www.MercyShips.org).
Malagasy builder and rice farmer Fidisoa was 38 when what appeared to be a tiny pimple on his back started to grow, first into a lump and then into the size of a fist. It continued to grow until Fidisoa looked as if he carried a backpack underneath his shirt.
By age 53, Fidisoa struggled to do the high level of manual labor required from his livelihood and laying down on his back was painful for him.
Despite his best efforts to have the tumor removed using his life savings to pay for three surgeries at hospitals in his home country in 2015, 2018 and 2021, each time the tumor just regrew.
He said: “The first surgery was 600,000 Ariary (about $135 USD) since the tumor was comparatively smaller then. The second surgery was 1,300,000 Ariary ($290 USD) and the third surgery was 5,000,000 Ariary ($1,250 USD).”
“The first and second surgeries were paid for, using all the money I had worked and saved over the years.” Then, in order to pay for his third surgery in 2021, Fidisoa took on a new contract abroad to raise the final funds he needed – all of which was spent on the treatment.
A family man with three children aged five, 22 and 25, Fidisoa felt driven to continue working hard in the fields and providing for his loved ones despite the fact he was in physical pain and struggled to remain active.
Hope finally came in the form of a news announcement explaining that international charity Mercy Ships was offering free surgeries for conditions such as his on hospital ship the Africa Mercy®.
“I heard of Mercy Ships in 2015 on the news, but at the time, I didn't know how to get selected,” he admitted. When Mercy Ships returned to Madagascar in 2024, Fidisoa was able to be seen by the volunteer medical team and was welcomed on board the Africa Mercy® to receive his long-awaited surgery.
The day Fidisoa finally boarded the hospital ship was unforgettable – for more reasons than one. “Today, June 6, is my 53rd birthday and to be going in for free surgery tomorrow is like the best birthday gift I have ever received. The nurses here are so kind and even sang a happy birthday song for me,” Fidisoa shared.
After the four-hour surgery, Fidisoa's family, including his wife, daughter, and sister, were all waiting for him outside the operating room and were elated to see the tumor had gone.
“They were amazed at how different I looked,” Fidisoa said with a smile. “Thank you to all the loving, humble people at Mercy Ships and to everyone who made this possible.”
Dr. Tertius Venter, a volunteer reconstructive plastics surgeon from South Africa, was among the team who operated on Fidisoa in a procedure called a back hibernoma excision. He said that the benign tumor, a soft lobular fibroma which weighed 5 kilograms (11 lbs.), was now gone for good. After past surgeries regrowth occurred because not all abnormal tissue was removed.
“In his case, we spent quite a lot of time because it [abnormal tissue] also infiltrated into his muscles, so we had to go thoroughly and find every bit and remove it as far we could. We have removed it completely now,” explained Dr. Venter.
Finally free from the weight he had long carried, Fidisoa would now be able to live a normal life.
After his healing journey was complete, Fidisoa was filled with fresh ideas for the future. Without the physical limitations of his tumor, the work that had long been challenging now felt like a new beginning.
“I look forward to getting back to work immediately on the farm where I grow rice. I intend to fix an old motorbike I have back home and use that to supply sacks of rice to my customers. Maybe with time, I will travel to the Comoros Islands to do construction work, but for now, I'll stay in Madagascar,” he said with optimism.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.
Video link: https://apo-opa.co/4cPqspq
For more Information about Mercy Ships, contact:
Sophie Barnett
Mercy Ships International PR Manager
sophie.barnett@mercyships.org
About Mercy Ships:
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.
Each year, more than 3,000 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world's two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical, obstetric and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit www.MercyShips.org and follow @ MercyShips on social media.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented to the Pension Funds Amendment Bill which amends pension-related legislation to enable the implementation of the recently legislated two-pot retirement system, geared towards bolstering retirement savings.
The new Pension Funds Amendment Act amends the Pension Funds Act of 1956, the Post and Telecommunications-Related Matters Act of 1958, the Transnet Pension Fund Act of 1990 and the Government Employees Pension Law of 1996.
The law provides for the introduction of the savings withdrawal benefit; the appropriate account of a member's interest in the savings; retirement and vested components, and the deductions that may be made.
The Act requires pension funds to amend their rules, adjust their investment portfolios and prepare administrative systems for pension fund members to apply to access portions of their pension funds from 1 September 2024.
This law complements the Revenues Laws Amendment Act, 2024 (Act No. 12 of 2024), which was signed by the President on 11 June 2024.
Government has proposed a reform to the retirement saving regime, which will see the introduction of the “two-pot” retirement system. From the proposed date of 1 September 2024, one-third of retirement contributions will be split into a savings component and two-thirds into a retirement component.
What is in the “savings component” will be available for withdrawal at any time before retirement. The ability to unconditionally access amounts from the “savings component” will be provided without the member having to cease employment or having to resign. A member will be allowed to make a single withdrawal within a year of assessment.
The minimum withdrawal amount is R2 000. The ability to withdraw from the “savings component” will be applicable on a per fund or per contract basis.
Withdrawals from the “savings component” will be added to the individual's taxable income and will be taxed at their marginal tax rates.
Retirement funds will on or soon after 1 September 2024, be required to create another component known as the “retirement component”, which will be housed within the current retirement fund.
Individuals will be required to contribute an amount of two-thirds of the total individual retirement fund contributions to the “retirement component”.
The assets in the “retirement component” will be required to be preserved until retirement (i.e. withdrawals from this component can only be accessed by the member upon retirement as per the fund rules).
Once a member has reached retirement age and retires, the “retirement component” is to be paid in the form of an annuity (including a living annuity).
This dispensation gives members of retirement funds access to retirement savings without having to resign or cash out entire pension funds.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Financial technology, or “FinTech,” is the term used to describe any technology or software that tries to improve and automate the delivery and use of financial services. Everyday examples include online banking, invoicing, mobile payment apps and more. We are probably preaching to the choir here, but keeping track of every last cent that moves …
PalmPay (www.PalmPay.com), a leading Africa-focused fintech platform, has been included in the 2024 edition of CNBC and Statista's prestigious list of the “Top 250 Fintech Companies in the World.” This recognition underscores PalmPay's rapid growth and significant contributions to advancing financial inclusion.
The CNBC/Statista list honours fintech pioneers significantly transforming the financial services industry through technology. More than 2000 companies were evaluated globally based on general and sector-specific KPIs to determine the final selection. In 2024, some of the most influential fintechs in the world were included in the list, including Alipay, Nubank, Monzo, and Revolut. Six other African firms made the list: Flutterwave (Nigeria/US) – Payments; Kuda (Nigeria/UK) – Neobanking; MTN (South Africa) – Payments; Piggyvest (Nigeria) – Financial planning; and Yoco (South Africa) – Payments.
PalmPay has developed an integrated platform that caters to consumers and businesses in the African market. The startup, which has been operating since 2019, pioneered a unique model in Nigeria that provides financial services such as money transfers, bill payment, credit services and savings via a one-stop-shop fintech ‘superapp' and mobile money agents.
This dual approach of easy-to-use digital banking, combined with offline touchpoints for those without smartphones, has contributed to driving financial inclusion in a market where more than 40% of adults remain unbanked.
In 2023, PalmPay announced a major milestone of reaching 30 million registered users on its smartphone apps and 1.1 million businesses in its network of mobile money agents and retail merchants. A third of PalmPay customers report that the platform was their first-ever financial account.
PalmPay has quickly grown to become a market leader in Nigeria thanks to its user-friendly interface, reliable transactions, and focus on driving market share through fee-free transfers and promotions. PalmPay processes 15 million transactions on its consumer app daily and maintains a 99.5% transaction success rate.
To achieve this scale in a market where 10% transaction failure rates were common, the company built out its payment infrastructure, channel integrations and transaction routing systems. In addition to its consumer wallet, PalmPay offers services to businesses that leverage the PalmPay platform via its suite of POS machines, APIs and checkout solutions.
"It's an honour for PalmPay to be recognised by CNBC and Statista as one of the World's Top Fintech Companies," said Sofia Zab, Global CMO, "This recognition validates our unique approach to financial services and our commitment to driving financial inclusion. We are actively expanding PalmPay's reach and offerings, ensuring more people have access to essential financial services and promoting economic development in emerging markets"
PalmPay operates in several key markets across Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana and Tanzania, with plans to expand further in the region and other emerging markets. The company has global HQs in China and London.
For more information, visit www.PalmPay.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of PalmPay.
Cape Town, South Africa – Designer Pool Covers Cape Town, a leading provider of high-quality pool cover solutions, has announced an expansion of its product offerings to meet the increasing demand for pool safety and energy efficiency in the Western Cape region. The company has introduced several new automatic and safety cover options to complement …
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – July 2024 – In the quest for the perfect laundry routine, the choice between a front loader and a top loader washing machine can significantly impact your household’s efficiency and convenience. Both types offer unique advantages tailored to different needs and lifestyles. Here is a detailed guide to help you decide …
Smart homes are becoming increasingly popular, offering convenience, security, and energy efficiency. One of the standout products in this category is the Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor, which integrates seamlessly with various smart home systems. Available at GeeWiz, this advanced presence sensor enhances the functionality and responsiveness of your smart home setup. Let’s dive into its …
EcoFlow (www.EcoFlow.com/za) is pleased to announce its Annual Winter Sale, running from 15th July to 19th August. This year's sale features exclusive promotions on top-tier products, specially curated for those looking to prepare for energy interruption and the rising energy cost for a warm and load-shedding-free winter season.
The sale includes a wide array of products ranging from the best-selling portable power stations to the newly launched Alternator Charger. These deals include but are not limited to –
This dynamic duo, priced at R19,999 with a 32% discount, is perfect for providing whole-home backup power during winter load-shedding. The DELTA 2's powerful capacity combined with the efficiency of the 220W bifacial solar panels makes for an unbeatable combination.
For those seeking more versatile power solutions, this combo offers reliable performance and on-the-go power convenience. The RIVER 2 Max weighs only 6.1kg and is an ideal energy partner for users who fancy a winter outdoor escapade. The 160W Bifacial Portable Solar Panel ensures the RIVER 2 Max stays powered up and ready, wherever you are. This combo is available at R8,999 with a 40% discount during the winter sale.
The newly launched 800W Alternator Charger is a 3-in-1 charger, jump starter and battery maintainer. With demand for accessible energy and off-grid comfort across the RV, overlanding and van life communities, there is a need for unrestricted access to electricity that isn't dependent on fixed power locations or gas generators. The charger offers an exceptionally convenient and effective solution. During the winter sale, consumers can purchase the DELTA 2 Max along with the 800W Alternator Charger and receive an additional 220W solar panel at no extra cost.
EcoFlow is committed to delivering simple, flexible and reliable eco-friendly energy solutions. In face of rising energy costs and increased energy needs during winter, the seasonal sale provides a wonderful opportunity for people to integrate solar energy systems into their daily energy consumption routine.
The EcoFlow Annual Winter Sale kicks off on 15th July and runs until 19th August. Visit the EcoFlow South Africa website store (https://apo-opa.co/4cWYR5a) for more unbeatable savings and product details. For more information, please visit: https://za.EcoFlow.com/
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EcoFlow.
Media Contact:
Haochen Zhang
haochen.zhang@ecoflow.com
About EcoFlow:
EcoFlow is a leading eco-friendly energy solutions company with the vision to power a new world. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow aims to become a reliable and trusted energy companion for individuals and families across the world, providing accessible and renewable power solutions at home, outdoors, and in mobile spaces. Today, with operational headquarters located in the USA, Germany, and Japan, EcoFlow has empowered more than 3 million users in over 100 markets worldwide. For more information, visit: https://www.EcoFlow.com/au
Think back a number of years to when we used to have groceries, medicine and meat delivered by bicycle. Mom or Granny would phone the store and a fit man on a ‘dik wiel’ would cycle around to drop off your purchases. It worked, provided employment, saved time and was environmentally friendly. Soon after we …