MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, many parents and students are exploring alternative avenues to traditional schooling. Whether it’s the desire for a personalised learning experience, the need for remedial assistance, or the quest for excellence in standardised tests like the SAT, NBT, or GED, there’s a diverse range of educational solutions available. In this …
Malicious objects of all types were detected and blocked on 34% of Industrial Control System (ICS) computers in the first half of 2023, according to the ICS CERT landscape report (https://apo-opa.info/3LwG719) by Kaspersky (www.Kaspersky.co.za). In Africa over this period attacks were detected on 40,3% of ICS computers, placing it in first place among the other regions. The top industries under attack were energy (45,9%), engineering & integration (44%) and building automation (40%). All these attacks were blocked after detection.
ICS computers are used in oil & gas, energy, automotive manufacturing, building automation infrastructures and other spheres to perform a range of operational technology (OT) functions – from the workstations of engineers and operators to supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) servers and Human Machine Interface (HMI). Cyberattacks on industrial computers are considered to be extremely dangerous as they may cause material losses and production downtime for the controlled production line and even the facility as a whole. Moreover, industrial enterprises put out of service can seriously undermine a region's social welfare, ecology and macroeconomics.
An analysis of the most significant and targeted threats detected on ICS computers in selected countries of Africa in the first half of 2023 shows that the threat landscape can vary between countries and between industries due to the differences in the security maturity of different countries/industries and the current focus of threat actors. In South Africa in the first half of 2023 malware was detected and blocked on 29,1% of ICS computers, in Nigeria on 32,6%, in Kenya on 34,5% of machines.
There are different types of cyberthreats that OT-related computers face – malicious scripts, spy trojans, worms, ransomware, and others. In the first half of 2023 Africa had the highest percentage of ICS computers on which spyware was blocked (9,8%). The Middle East and Southeast Asia had similarly high percentages (8,3% and 8,1%). The global average stands at 6,1%.
Africa was also the region with the highest percentage of ICS computers (14,8%) on which attacks from denylisted Internet resources were blocked (these are web resources associated with distributing or controlling malware). The global average is 11,3%.
Viruses and worms spread across ICS networks by means of removable media, shared folders, infected files, such as backups, and network attacks on outdated software. The percentage of ICS computers on which worms were detected was very high in Africa (7% vs. 2,3% global average), making this region the leader by percentage of ICS computers on which threats were detected after removable devices were connected.
“Africa's industrial landscape is diverse, ranging from large-scale mining operations to small-scale agriculture. This means that ICS cybersecurity solutions need to be adaptable to various sectors and technologies. In some regions, legacy ICS systems that lack modern security features are still in use. These systems are often more vulnerable to cyberthreats and require significant upgrades. Lastly, some critical infrastructure in Africa is located in remote areas with limited connectivity, which can make it difficult to monitor and secure ICS assets effectively,” comments Evgeny Goncharov, Head of Kaspersky ICS CERT. “By understanding these risks, organisations can make informed decisions, allocate resources wisely, and efficiently fortify their defenses. In doing so, they not only protect their bottom line but also contribute to a safer and more secure digital ecosystem for all.”
Read more about the ICS threat landscape in the first half of 2023 on the Kaspersky ICS CERT website (https://apo-opa.info/3LwG719).
To keep your OT computers protected from various threats, Kaspersky experts recommend:
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.
For further information please contact:
Nicole Allman | INK&Co.
nicole@inkandco.co.za
Social Media:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3M3uy0L
Twitter: https://apo-opa.info/3OaLeGw
YouTube: https://apo-opa.info/41wO7V6
Instagram: https://apo-opa.info/42BZnRq
Blog: https://apo-opa.info/42Apbxn
About Kaspersky:
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. Kaspersky's deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection, specialized security products and services, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky technologies and we help over 220,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.Kaspersky.co.za.
Loadshedding has become a significant concern for many South Africans. The frequent power outages not only disrupt daily life but also impact businesses and the economy. However, with the rise of innovative loadshedding solutions, there’s hope for a brighter and more consistent future. Understanding Loadshedding Loadshedding is a measure taken to prevent the power …
The Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) (https://www.AWIEForum.org) is delighted to announce the finalists for its 2023 AWIEF Awards.
Launched in 2017, the prestigious annual AWIEF Awards is an initiative to recognise, honour, and celebrate women entrepreneurs and business owners in Africa across various industry sectors for their achievements and contribution to the continent's inclusive economic growth and social development.
An international and independent Panel of Judges selected the twenty-four (24) finalists across eight (8) categories. These outstanding women founders and business leaders operate in a diverse range of sectors and represent companies from fourteen (14) different African countries: Cameroon, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The 2023 AWIEF Awards winners will be announced and celebrated at a special ceremony and gala dinner at the AWIEF2023 Conference and Awards, taking place on 9 and 10 November at the Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali, Rwanda.
AWIEF Founder and CEO, Irene Ochem, said: “Given the huge number and calibre of the nominations received this year, it is clear that female entrepreneurship and business leadership is thriving across Africa. It is our honour to recognise and celebrate the achievements and contributions of these women to the inclusive growth of their respective sectors, their countries and the continent's economy.”
A member of the 2023 AWIEF Awards Panel of Judges, John-Paul Iwuoha, Founder of Smallstarter Africa, said: "As a Judge, I was thoroughly impressed by the quality of applications in all the categories. It is great to see how AWIEF continues to attract innovative women across Africa who are creating enormous value for society."
The finalists for the 2023 AWIEF Awards are (listed in alphabetical order):
Young Entrepreneur Award
Salamba Diene, CEO, BIOSENE SARL, Senegal
Joyce Kamande, Co-founder & CEO, Safi Organics, Kenya
Jovia Kisakye, CEO, Sparkle Agro Brand, Uganda
Tech Entrepreneur Award
Norah Magero, Founder & CEO, Drop Access Limited, Kenya
Kathryn Malherbe, CEO, Med Sol AI Solutions, South Africa
Kidist Tesfaye, Founder & CEO, YeneHealth, Ethiopia
Agri Entrepreneur Award
Chinwendu Nweke, CEO, Bridge Merchant Enterprise, Nigeria
Forget Shareka, Founder, Chashi Foods, Zimbabwe
Nonopa Tenza, Founder & MD, Kevinot Farming, South Africa
Energy Entrepreneur Award
Linda Mabhena-Olagunju, Founder & CEO, DLO Energy Resources Group, South Africa
Ifeoma Malo, CEO, Clean Technology Hub, Nigeria
Margaret Yainkain Mansaray, Founder & CEO, Women in Energy Sierra Leone Limited, Sierra Leone
Creative Industry Award
Yasmina Belahsen, Founder, MayaDigital, Morocco
Gladys Chibanda, Founder & CEO, Krafted Ink, Zimbabwe
Ararat Tamirat, Founder & GM, Tuba By Ararat, Ethiopia
Social Entrepreneur Award
Damilola Aminat Adeyemi, Co-founder & CEO, D-Olivette Global Enterprise, Nigeria
Kayumba Chiwele, Founder & Principal Psychologist, MindAid Zambia, Zambia
Mundih Noelar Njohjam, Medical Doctor, Epilepsy Awareness, Aid and Research Association, Cameroon
Empowerment Award
Aya Chebbi, Founder & President, Nalafem Collective, Tunisia
Zulfat Mukarubega, Founder, University of Tourism, Technology and Business Studies, Rwanda
Catherine Wijnberg, Founder & CEO, Fetola, South Africa
Lifetime Achievement Award
Rina Gunter, Founding Partner, Gunter Attorneys, South Africa
Dalia Ibrahim, CEO, Nahdet Misr Publishing House, Egypt
Anke Weisheit, Co-founder & Chair, PHARMBIOTRAC, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda
Tickets for the AWIEF2023 Conference and Awards are available online at: https://apo-opa.info/3JHKUem
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF).
For more information and media enquiries, email: info@awieforum.org
Science must be at the centre of water policy formulations
Policymakers in the water sector have been urged to put science at the centre of their policy formulations to ensure informed decisions are made that will propel the country to greater heights.
The appeal was made by Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, who was speaking at the opening of the 50th Congress of International Association of Hydrogeologists, currently underway in Cape Town.
The congress, taking place from 19 to 22 September 2023, brings together speakers from several institutions across the globe and groundwater experts who are engaging on alternative water sources, particularly surface water and underground water governance and charting a way forward on water security.
In his address, Mahlobo warned that a country that does not invest in science will perish and emphasised that South Africa needs to improve on this aspect.
“As scientists and engineers gathered here, you need to make your mark and direct future policy positions of the water sector, particularly the use of groundwater as an alternate measure that will ensure universal access.
“We need you to guide us and take us to task to come up with policies that will get us into finding lasting and sustainable solutions to the water challenges around the globe,” Mahlobo said.
Challenging the delegates, Mahlobo said the weeklong convergence should not be just a talk shop, but come up with solutions that will benefit generations to come.
Mahlobo reflected on South Africa’s progress in meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation for all.
He said the country has attained a lot in redressing the dignity of people who were previously unserved, while acknowledging that a lot still needs to be done.
The country has achieved almost 90% of its target of ensuring access to water, and the Deputy Minister emphasised that access to water should have meaningful impact in terms of economic benefits to the country, food security, social and environmental benefits, among other things.
Mahlobo admitted that the country still has enormous challenges, including assurance to water supply which has declined due to a number of factors.
“Communities can go for days on end without water supply, and this is caused by our neglect of operation and maintenance of our infrastructure. Because we have not invested in operations and maintenance, we are experiencing a lot of water losses in our system which is between 30% to 45%.
“The other challenge is the lack of investment in our infrastructure that matches the population growth and migration from other countries and people moving from rural to urban areas,” he pointed out.
Work is underway to ensure more funds are sourced from the private sector and other private partners to build more infrastructure across the nine provinces.
In addition, the department is addressing the issue of skills shortages that has hindered the efficiency of the water sector to ensure that all systems function optimally, and communities have reliable and uninterrupted water supply.
The Deputy Minister called on the department, as a regulator of the sector, to bite more and take to task all the mining companies that are degrading the quality of groundwater.
The International Association of Hydrogeologists is a scientific and educational charitable organisation of more than 4 000 scientists, engineers, water managers and other professionals working in the fields of groundwater resource planning, management and protection. It was founded in 1956. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 11:42
Holding those accountable for financial misconduct imperative for public trust
With South Africa’s public finances being under strain, Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has emphasised the importance of holding individuals and entities accountable for financial misconduct, as it is vital for public trust.
“Without swift and fitting consequences, we risk eroding public trust in our capacity to manage public funds effectively, with less and less funding available to deliver much-needed services to our people,” Godongwana said on Wednesday.
Virtually addressing the 3rd Public Finance Management Conference, the Minister said rigorous and independent audit practices play a pivotal role in unearthing corruption and financial mismanagement, providing invaluable insights and recommendations for the judicious utilisation of public funds.
“Our public finances are currently in a difficult position, one that is increasing in complexity and uncertainty. The short-term risks to the local and global economy that we predicted in the February Budget have now materialised.
“Government has collected much lower-than-expected tax revenue. At the same time, tighter financial conditions have made it difficult to borrow more and at affordable rates.
“Continued load shedding, the poor performance of our logistics sectors, and the lasting damage done by State capture to our institutions, have made the difficult fiscal situation even more challenging,” the Minister said.
He noted that these and other factors have put tremendous strain on the financial resources available to address the country’s most urgent service delivery priorities.
“Furthermore, ethical sourcing of goods and services through public procurement stands as an unassailable priority. Non-compliance with ethical standards in procurement can have far-reaching consequences, compromising the integrity of our financial processes,” Godongwana said.
He said being innovative, adaptive, agile and solutions-driven during these volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) times is important.
“It is important to note that we have faced similar challenges in the past and managed to make the necessary policy decisions and trade-offs to navigate the storm.
“The path forward is not devoid of challenges; however, we are not powerless. With innovation, adaptability, and a resolute commitment to ethical financial management, we can surmount these obstacles and forge a luminous future for South Africa.
“We must leverage technology, collaborate across sectors, and put our citizens at the centre of our decisions. Together, we hold the power to rekindle public trust, to advance good governance, and to fortify our nation's public financial management,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 11:43
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for any business. Whether you’re a local shop in Johannesburg or an international corporation, search engine optimisation (SEO) can significantly impact your visibility and customer reach. If you’re looking to improve your website’s performance, click here for top SEO solutions. Why is SEO Important? …
In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, staying ahead of the competition is crucial. Especially in a vibrant city like Johannesburg, where businesses are continually evolving, you need a solid online strategy to make your mark. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through SEO. If you’re looking for Johannesburg SEO solutions …
Electricity Minister to co-host South African Transmission Financing Seminar
Minister in The Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, is expected to co-host a Transmission Financing Seminar with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) on Thursday.
The Minister will deliver a keynote address at the seminar.
According to a statement, the seminar is aimed at galvanising “discussions on the financing of South Africa’s Transmission Development Plan, which seeks to expand, support and secure the sustainability of South Africa’s energy mix and electricity supply”.
“The development and expansion of South Africa’s electricity transmission infrastructure is a critical cog to enabling diverse energy solutions, which are geographically located in various parts of the country, to contribute to the country’s electricity grid.
“This will significantly strengthen and increase South Africa’s electricity supply and capacitate the energy sector in meeting global decarbonisation targets and ensuring South Africa’s long-term energy security and energy sovereignty,” the statement read.
Various industry stakeholders are expected to attend the seminar.
“The seminar will bring together government, energy industry veterans and potential private sector investors to engage in a critical conversation on South Africa’s transmission infrastructure requirements for long-term energy security; explore alternative funding mechanisms for maintaining, modernising and expanding the national grid and an exchange on international experience of countries that have had similar challenges and what models were pursued to overcome these challenges,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 09:25
South Africa is witnessing a transformative shift in the energy landscape, and at the forefront of this change is a dedicated team committed to saving South Africans one solar installation at a time. Welcome to the heart of the country’s solar industry, where innovation, sustainability, and a brighter future unite. In this blog, we delve into the ethos …
Government turned down Limpopo-based Nekwana Trading Enterprise’s application because of shortcomings in basic impact assessment
In a world where health is paramount and choices are significant, a dedicated healthcare provider stands as a beacon of empowerment and well-being. Offering a range of essential services, this provider is committed to fostering healthier lives and informed decisions for all. Wellness Clinic: Comprehensive Health and Wellness The Wellness Clinic, one of the services …
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, adaptability and versatility are key to success. Businesses must be ready to meet changing needs and seize new opportunities. This blog introduces a provider that offers a diverse range of services tailored to modern business requirements, adding substantial value to their clients. Smart Call Answering Services: Elevating Customer …
In the digital age, managing the ever-expanding universe of documents is a challenge businesses face daily. Enter a comprehensive document solution that caters to a wide range of industries, offering streamlined processes and increased efficiency. In this blog, we explore the diverse applications of this solution across various sectors. Logistics (POD): Tracking and Delivery …
In the quest for perfect lighting, one destination shines brightly as a beacon of illumination. Offering an extensive range of lighting solutions, this establishment has become a haven for those seeking to transform their spaces, both indoor and outdoor. Dive into the world of radiant possibilities as we explore the dazzling selection of fixtures and …
[Durban, South Africa – 13 September, 2023] – Kwikspace, Africa’s leading provider of prefabricated buildings, has recently completed a project in partnership with Broll and Padel Perfect, delivering essential materials for office spaces and ablutions for the new padel tennis court at Musgrave Centre in Durban. The project marks an important milestone in Kwikspace’s commitment …
In the vast and intricate web of global commerce and transportation, having a reliable logistics partner is paramount. This article explores the diverse range of services offered by a logistics company that stands tall among its peers, providing solutions to cater to various industry needs. General Courier Services For businesses seeking swift and efficient …
In the ever-evolving world of tech and gaming, enthusiasts have a wide array of choices when it comes to their favourite brands and products. From industry giants like Amazon, Google, Oculus, and Apple to niche specialists such as Bluetti, Ecoflow, and Gizzu, the options are limitless. Brands That Define Excellence Whether you’re seeking cutting-edge gadgets or gaming essentials, these brands have set …
12 September 2023, Johannesburg – The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd (FEM) will be hosting its annual Safetember Conference this month. FEM is a mutual insurer that provides workmen’s compensation cover to the construction industry. The conference is part of a broader “Safetember” campaign that uses the month of September to shine …
Africa's boldest and most ambitious cleantech start-ups will take part in the Energy Investment Village (https://apo-opa.info/468SsAw), an exciting deal-pitching event at the Green Energy Africa Summit (https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com), to be held in the heart of South Africa's Cape Town on 10-11 October at the CTICC2.
Held under the theme, “Unlocking Africa's Sustainable Energy Potential,” the Green Energy Africa Summit (GEAS) will provide unrivalled opportunities throughout its two-day programme for the continent's leaders in energy, finance, and social development, to meet with international investors, to find sustainable solutions to Africa's energy needs and a just transition to a green economy.
This highly anticipated event advocates for the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, as well as policy reforms, to help usher in an energy transition that ensures the continent remains competitive and attractive to global finance. With over 1000 delegates from 67 countries, GEAS invites both public and private stakeholders across the energy value chain to collaborate, offer solutions, and build partnerships to help unlock Africa's true socioeconomic potential.
GEAS is thrilled to welcome its strategic industry partners, including The Banking Association of South Africa (https://www.Banking.org.za/) and The African Forum for Utility Regulators (https://AFURnet.org/). This year's agenda features a strong mix of discussions within dedicated content streams, from the Energy Strategy Forum on day one, to the Green Energy and Green Finance Forums on day two. Attendees can look forward to country and regional spotlights on South Africa and West Africa, as well as sessions led by finance and energy heavyweights. Find the full GEAS 2023 agenda here: https://apo-opa.info/3rfJNxm
The Energy Investment Village (EIV) is the GEAS's Lion's Den-style pitching event for cleantech companies, which will be held on 11 October. The finalists will be given an extraordinary opportunity to gain exposure, network with potential clients, and receive vital market validation. Most importantly, they will be given the chance to pitch for funding (https://apo-opa.info/468SsAw) from international investors.
“Africa's traditional, fossil-fuel-based energy cannot keep pace with its swift development. While the continent's abundance of natural resources can enable clean energy innovations, constraints like access to finance impedes the opportunities for local clean-tech innovators. Events such as the EIV open up direct pathways to decision-makers and funders, and are a critical enabler of the clean-tech ecosystem,” says RIIS CEO Davis Cook.
In partnership with Saldanha Bay Innovation Campus (https://www.InnovationCampus.co.za/), RIIS (https://EnablingInnovation.Africa/), and Anza Capital (https://Anza.Holdings/), and supported by Africa Scotland, JSE, Oceanhub-Africa, Savant, Firecracker, CHIETA, and SASOL, the EIV is delighted to introduce the outstanding finalists that have been selected to present their projects, which aim to revolutionise the energy landscape and promote sustainable development in Africa:
Don't miss out on the chance to engage with these visionary entrepreneurs and experts, as they demonstrate how their projects will address the energy challenges across Africa. From scalable solutions for rural communities, to innovative grid technologies, these finalists promise to inspire, educate, and shape a greener future for the continent.
Organised by Hyve Group Plc., the Green Energy Africa Summit is where the world connects with the African Energy sector. Register to attend here https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com/. Attend the Green Energy Africa Summit to be part of the solution and connect with industry leaders, charting the way towards a sustainable clean energy transition for Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Green Energy Africa Summit.
Media Contact:
Amie Sparrow
PR Manager
amie.sparrow@hyve.group
About Green Energy Africa Summit:
The Green Energy Africa Summit is a high-level gathering advocating for policy reforms and the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, to help pave the way for a just energy transition to ensure Africa remains competitive and attractive to global finance. Green Energy Africa Summit takes place in the heart of Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC2) from 10-11 October 2023.
14 September 2023 – The Eastern Cape, renowned for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty, has long been home to hundreds of bird and tree species. However, the region has faced significant challenges due to pastoral activities, habitat destruction, deforestation, and overgrazing, resulting in the loss of many valuable species. Recent research indicates that half …
SevenC, a leading IT infrastructure and network service provider striving to identify and make available the best possible IT strategies for its clients’ unique needs, delves into why cloud power remains undefeated by load shedding. As load shedding continues to challenge businesses and individuals alike, there emerges a beacon of hope and efficiency: cloud computing. …
In the world of wastewater management, maintaining efficient and effective sewage systems is paramount. One essential component that has become increasingly vital in modern systems is the grinder. But what is a grinder in a sewage system, and why is it so crucial? The Basics of Grinders in Sewage Systems A grinder, in the …
In a rapidly evolving world where technology, sustainability, and efficiency are critical, it’s more important than ever to find innovative solutions for complex engineering challenges. Companies have to work smart to stay ahead, and this is where engineered solutions come into play. Let’s explore how tailored solutions are revolutionising sectors from mining to agriculture. …