<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="410" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/004-kv-product-galaxy-zfold6-main-OOH-horizontal-1-820x410.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-567089" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/004-kv-product-galaxy-zfold6-main-OOH-horizontal-1-820x410.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/004-kv-product-galaxy-zfold6-main-OOH-horizontal-1-300x150.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/004-kv-product-galaxy-zfold6-main-OOH-horizontal-1-160x80.jpg 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/004-kv-product-galaxy-zfold6-main-OOH-horizontal-1-768x384.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/004-kv-product-galaxy-zfold6-main-OOH-horizontal-1-1536x768.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/004-kv-product-galaxy-zfold6-main-OOH-horizontal-1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 13 December 2024 – Today’s smartphones need to do more than ever. From simple communication to content creation and complex workflows, the smartphone has quickly become a hub for working life. With the Galaxy Z Fold6, Samsung gives users access to a variety of powerful productivity features, putting the power of a PC in your pocket.



And now, with the integration of Galaxy AI, these productivity features are intelligently optimised, making the most of the unique foldable form factor to maximise performance when working from anywhere, more especially for small and mid-size businesses (SMBs).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-powered-productivity-for-smbs-on-the-large-screen">AI-Powered Productivity for SMBs on the Large Screen</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Maximised Productivity: Galaxy AI enables more efficient work with features such as Note Assist, Browsing Assist and Transcript Assist, across areas including meeting recaps and research projects. New S Pen Assist also offers shortcuts to intuitive AI capabilities with just a few simple gestures.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Barrier-Free Communication: Collaboration and communicating with people from any background is made easy with Interpreter, Chat Assist and Live Translate, removing language barriers and helping to accelerate business at a global level. Use Interpreter in dual-screen mode to communicate clearly in your own language in real-time when meeting international colleagues.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Seamless Search: Circle to Search in partnership with Google helps deliver more productive searches and intuitive presentation of results using the large, dual screen format.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Flexible Form: With FlexMode, efficient video conferencing is enabled and enhanced further with new interpreter dual screen experience.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-device-security-and-data-privacy">Advanced Device Security and Data Privacy</h2>



One of the most important questions that Samsung is asked by business people is whether it safe to use AI at work? And the answer to that is simple: Mobile AI is&nbsp;<a href="https://insights.samsung.com/2024/03/06/mobile-ai-shapes-the-future-of-smart-devices/?cid=com-btb-sky-blg-us-other-na-100219-112001-na-na-na&amp;attributioncampaignid=7011Q000001VMa2QAG" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shaping the future of smart devices</a>. Business leaders rightfully have concerns about security and privacy with AI in the workplace. However, as AI proliferates &#8211; so do its security features, thanks to the mobile security innovations from Samsung.



For Samsung, keeping&nbsp;<a href="https://insights.samsung.com/2024/03/06/mobile-ai-shapes-the-future-of-smart-devices/?cid=com-btb-sky-blg-us-other-na-100219-112001-na-na-na&amp;attributioncampaignid=7011Q000001VMa2QAG" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI secure for businesses</a>&nbsp;centres on having the right data security measures and architecture in place to provide both on-device and cloud protection. <a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/business/solutions/samsung-knox/?cid=com-btb-sky-blg-us-other-na-100219-112001-na-na-na&amp;attributioncampaignid=7011Q000001VMa2QAG" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Samsung Knox</a>&nbsp;can accomplish all of that and continuously manage it, so you and your team can use Live Translate and Note Assist as well as all the other exciting features Galaxy AI has to offer with confidence and without hindrance.



With On-device AI &amp; Knox Service: Users can now select the ‘on-device only’ option in settings for better security. Plus, Knox Service Plug-in is available for major EMMs (Enterprise Mobility Management), allowing the use of the Knox platform for enterprise features.&nbsp;



Galaxy Z Fold6 offers plenty of additional features that make them go-to devices for SMBs. These include Microsoft integrations, Google Meet Live Sharing and the ability to store payment cards, digital IDs and more with Samsung Wallet. In the meantime, AI innovations will continue to unfold — and using foldables may be the best way to experience them.



For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.samsung.com/za">www.samsung.com/za</a>. The recommended retail prices for Samsung Galaxy Foldable devices and accessories are as follows:



•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Galaxy Z Fold6 512 GB – R49 999



•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Galaxy Z Fold6 256 GB – R46&nbsp;999

004-kv-product-galaxy-zfold6-main-OOH-horizontal (1)

Galaxy AI For Business: Empowering SMBs to do more with less time & effort by leveraging powerful AI in a secure environment

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="564" height="800" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG-20241217-WA0007-564x800.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-567040" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG-20241217-WA0007-564x800.jpg 564w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG-20241217-WA0007-211x300.jpg 211w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG-20241217-WA0007-63x90.jpg 63w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG-20241217-WA0007-768x1090.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG-20241217-WA0007-1082x1536.jpg 1082w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG-20241217-WA0007-scaled.jpg 1443w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 564px) 100vw, 564px" /></figure></div>


The Rwanda Film Office (RFO) has unveiled its Creative Grants Initiative, providing €360,000 in funding to support Rwandan filmmakers.



This initiative, accessible at <a href="https://rdb.rw/creative-grants-initiative-2024/">https://rdb.rw/creative-grants-initiative-2024/</a> , is supported by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), and the ACP-EU. It will provide funding for two production support projects and two post-production support projects.



The Creative Grants Initiative aims to empower individual filmmakers, film-related NGOs, and production companies, enabling them to advance their projects and contribute to the growth of Rwanda’s audiovisual sector.



Rwanda’s audiovisual sector is a vital contributor to job creation and revenue generation while promoting the country&#8217;s culture and enhancing its global visibility.



The RFO, established at RDB in 2019, continues to streamline services for the film and audiovisual industries, with the ambition to position Rwanda as a premier film destination on the continent.



With the support of partners such as GIZ and OIF, the office is entering a new phase of growth, emphasizing innovation and professional development within the sector.



The Creative Grants Initiative has been designed in consultation with the RFO Advisory Committee, ensuring it aligns with the needs of Rwanda’s film professionals.



The selection process will include input from local industry experts to identify and support the most promising projects.

IMG-20241217-WA0007

Rwanda Film Office Launches Creative Grants Initiative 2024 with €360,000 to Support Filmmakers

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="460" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AdobeStock_1104449386-Cyber-Security-Image-for-article-820x460.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-565228" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AdobeStock_1104449386-Cyber-Security-Image-for-article-820x460.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AdobeStock_1104449386-Cyber-Security-Image-for-article-300x168.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AdobeStock_1104449386-Cyber-Security-Image-for-article-160x90.jpg 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AdobeStock_1104449386-Cyber-Security-Image-for-article-768x430.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AdobeStock_1104449386-Cyber-Security-Image-for-article-1536x861.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AdobeStock_1104449386-Cyber-Security-Image-for-article-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">#BusinessDoneBetter with Cyber Security Solutions from MTN Business</figcaption></figure>



In today’s interconnected world, where technology underpins virtually every business operation, the threat of cybercrime has become increasingly significant. Cyberattacks are not only growing in frequency but are also becoming more sophisticated, making robust cybersecurity a critical necessity for organizations of all sizes. At MTN Business, we understand the scale of this challenge and are dedicated to equipping businesses with the tools and strategies needed to secure their digital futures.&nbsp;



The rapid pace of digital transformation has created both opportunities and vulnerabilities for businesses. While technology advances drive efficiency and innovation, they also expose organizations to cybercriminals who exploit weaknesses in systems, networks, and even human behavior. Cyber risks range from ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure to phishing schemes that compromise sensitive data, with potential consequences that are both pervasive and costly.&nbsp;



As businesses adopt cloud computing, IoT, and artificial intelligence (AI) to maintain their competitive edge, their cybersecurity requirements grow increasingly complex. Threat actors, too, are leveraging AI and quantum computing to create sophisticated tactics capable of bypassing traditional defenses. For instance, AI-powered cyberattacks can exploit vulnerabilities faster than many organizations can respond, highlighting the necessity of proactive defense strategies. Cyber resilience provides a solution to these challenges, focusing on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents while minimizing disruption and ensuring business continuity. At MTN Business, we champion a holistic approach to cybersecurity that integrates people, processes, and technology.&nbsp;



Proactive defense mechanisms, such as real-time threat detection, incident response planning, and endpoint protection, are critical in today’s evolving threat landscape. Managed solutions, like those provided by MTN, ensure that threats are identified and neutralized before causing harm, supported by expert guidance and continuous monitoring. Building awareness among employees is equally important, as human error remains a leading cause of security breaches. Regular training helps employees recognize phishing attempts, manage sensitive data responsibly, and adhere to security protocols, strengthening the first line of defense against cyberattacks.&nbsp;



Cutting-edge technologies, including AI and machine learning, enable businesses to predict and counter threats more effectively. MTN’s AI-driven cybersecurity solutions provide real-time analytics and monitoring, empowering organizations to stay ahead of attackers and maintain operational confidence. Effective incident response and recovery strategies play a pivotal role in minimizing the impact of breaches. MTN’s Security Operations Centre operates around the clock, offering clients tailored response plans, digital forensics, and robust communication strategies to ensure business continuity and mitigate reputational risks.



Certain industries are however, more susceptible to cyberattacks due to the critical nature of the data they handle or the services they provide. Healthcare organizations, for instance, are prime targets for ransomware attacks due to the sensitivity of patient data. Financial services are similarly attractive to cybercriminals because of the high volume of financial transactions and sensitive information involved. Additionally, critical infrastructure sectors, such as energy and water utilities, face unique risks, as successful attacks could have far-reaching consequences for society. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires tailored cybersecurity solutions that consider the unique challenges of each industry.&nbsp;



As businesses navigate the complexities of the digital era, the significance of cybersecurity extends beyond asset protection. It is also essential for fostering trust with customers, partners, and stakeholders. MTN Business aims to be a trusted partner in this journey, providing end-to-end security solutions that empower organizations to innovate without compromising their safety. Our offerings, including managed firewalls, enterprise mobility management, cloud security, and data encryption, are designed to adapt to an ever-changing threat landscape. By partnering with globally recognized providers such as Cloudflare, MTN ensures access to best-in-class technologies while tailoring these solutions to meet local business needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Addressing cybercrime requires collective effort. Businesses must prioritize cybersecurity at the executive level, allocate resources for continuous improvements, and cultivate a culture of accountability and awareness. Cyber resilience is an ongoing journey rather than a one-time investment. By working together, we can build a safer, more innovative future for everyone.&nbsp;



For more information on MTN Businesses Cyber Security solutions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mtnbusiness.co.za/en/Security-as-a-service/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.mtnbusiness.co.za</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Yellow Digital Padlock with Binary Code: AI Encryption and Cyber

Cyber Resilience in the Digital Age: A Call to Action for Business Leaders

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC4167-Enhanced-NR-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-565126" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC4167-Enhanced-NR-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC4167-Enhanced-NR-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC4167-Enhanced-NR-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC4167-Enhanced-NR-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC4167-Enhanced-NR-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC4167-Enhanced-NR-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Future Minerals Forum brings together governments, international organizations, and stakeholders to collectively shape the future of minerals.</figcaption></figure>



The global demand for minerals is surging, fuelled by the transition to clean energy and the rise of advanced technologies.



The&nbsp;Future Minerals Forum (FMF), held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has become the epicenter for shaping global mineral strategies. Its latest report,&nbsp;“Shaping the Future of Minerals”, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.



The report, developed with contributions from Wood Mackenzie, CRU, Clareo, GlobalAI and the Baker Institute, reveals an urgent reality: the world needs&nbsp;$5.4 trillion in mineral investment by 2035&nbsp;to sustain and expand mining and processing capacity. This figure is a call to rethink global minerals supply.



Minerals are essential for global development and the transition to electrification. But the report highlights a daunting challenge: mineral demand for renewable energy and manufacture of electric goods, and powering the AI revolution is outpacing the supply chain’s ability to deliver these materials. For instance, lithium processing alone is projected to grow fifteenfold by 2040, but infrastructure and resource depletion threaten supply stability.



Patrick Barnes,&nbsp;Global Head of Metals and Mining Consulting at Wood Mackenzie, highlighted the sector&#8217;s challenges, “The effort to de-risk supply chains and, in parallel, accelerate the energy transition represents an opportunity for a lot of investment – not just in mines but in the midstream and downstream of these minerals. Emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Sub-Saharan Africa, are poised to capture over 40% of global mineral capital investment, a dramatic shift in capital flows and geopolitical priorities.”



Despite challenges, there is significant economic potential for countries investing in mineral value addition. Nations like Indonesia have successfully transitioned from raw mineral exporters to leading players in processed commodities like nickel. This transformation is a blueprint for other resource-rich regions.



The report also challenges traditional extractive practices, urging a shift towards shared value creation. Historically, mining has been criticized for its &#8220;extract-and-ship&#8221; or “pit-to-port” mindset, which often sidelines local economic development. But as resource nationalism grows and societal expectations shift, mining companies face increasing pressure to balance profits with community benefits. “The focus on critical minerals has opened up the debate of role of mining in society more generally. It’s focus is now on how we make mines can contribute to development more broadly,” explained Mark Cutifani, Chairman at Vale Base Metals. “We need local communities to see us as partners, and we want them to benefit from the development of mines. it’s not a matter of engagement; it’s involvement.”



This sentiment is echoed across the sector, with shared value creation emerging as a cornerstone for sustainable development. Aldo Pennini, FMF Director for Strategy and Content adds, “The Future Minerals Forum brings countries together at a time when the world is fragmenting, putting forward practical actions for minerals to make a bigger contribution to host communities, national economies, and global development.”



Governments and companies must collaborate to create frameworks that ensure shared prosperity. Peter Bryant,&nbsp;Board Chair of Clareo, stressed: “Government plays a key role in creating shared value by providing the springboards to investment and not being overly prescriptive.”



The report outlines strategies for achieving this:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Targeted investment: Policymakers should prioritize projects that align with national competitiveness and market dynamics. For example, Indonesia’s ban on raw nickel exports led to a thriving domestic processing industry.</li>



<li>Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborative models like Anglo American’s regional development initiatives highlight the potential for multi-sectoral impact.</li>



<li>ESG-driven approaches: From water recycling to community engagement, sustainable practices are essential to addressing the growing scrutiny of the mining sector.</li>
</ul>



Ali Al-Mutairi, FMF’s Executive Director, emphasises the importance of action: “The minerals industry is at a turning point. Companies are taking on the responsibility of fostering shared value through deeper stakeholder collaboration.”



The Future Minerals Forum plays a crucial role in shifting perceptions about the mining industry. The energy transition will depend heavily on minerals, and unlocking the required funds demands collaboration and a shared vision.



This transformative era of minerals offers challenges and immense opportunities to reshape the global mineral landscape for the better. The question now is whether stakeholders will seize the moment to ensure that mineral wealth truly benefits all.

DSC4167-Enhanced-NR

Shared Value Creation: A Turning Point for the Mineral Industry

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="596" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Esha-Mansingh_landscape-820x596.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-563982" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Esha-Mansingh_landscape-820x596.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Esha-Mansingh_landscape-300x218.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Esha-Mansingh_landscape-124x90.jpg 124w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Esha-Mansingh_landscape-768x559.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Esha-Mansingh_landscape-1536x1117.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Esha-Mansingh_landscape.jpg 1815w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Esha Mansingh, Head: Corporate Affairs &amp; Sustainability for sub-Saharan Africa at DP World</figcaption></figure>



Sub-Saharan Africa is a rapidly growing market with vast potential to reshape the global trade landscape and drive holistic, positive change for communities that rely on trade as the lifeblood of access to quality products and services. Its pivotal impact makes everyday life better for millions of people in the region.



In June, DP World released the findings of its independently commissioned Socio-Economic Impact Assessment (SEIA) reports, prepared by Accenture, which reveal that the company created direct and indirect value of USD 6,75 billion (₦3,46 trillion) in Nigeria and USD 6,24 billion (R111,9 billion) in South Africa during its 2022 and 2023 financial years.



The SEIA report provides a comprehensive analysis of how DP World’s logistics, trade and infrastructure projects have impacted economic drivers such as job creation, economic growth, healthcare, resource efficiency and community development. The report highlights the substantial direct and indirect socio-economic benefits of DP World’s operations in Nigeria and South Africa despite macro-economic challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that the organisation leaves a lasting impact for good on the communities in which it operates.



&#8220;In these challenging times, our commitment to sustainable development and community well-being is more critical than ever,” said Esha Mansingh, Head: Corporate Affairs &amp; Sustainability for sub-Saharan Africa at DP World. “Our efforts in Nigeria and South Africa have not only supported direct and indirect jobs and improved healthcare access but have also strengthened supply chains and facilitated trade, laying the foundation for long-term economic stability and growth. We believe that our resilience and innovation are key to transforming the regions and communities in which we operate.”



In sub-Saharan Africa, DP World employs more than 28,000 people and operates across 48 markets. Its presence in the region, through its significant logistics, market access, and ports and terminals capabilities, is marked by DP World’s commitment to developing the continent and improving people’s lives through access to quality food, medicine, fuel, and many other necessities.



DP World plays a key role in connecting Africa to the world. The company invests in infrastructure, technology and talent to empower businesses, drive sustainable growth and shape the continent&#8217;s trade narrative.



Despite a challenging macroeconomic environment impacted by volatile commodity prices, high inflation, and geo-political tensions, DP World showed good progress over the reported period through the innovation and resilience of its people, and embedding sustainability throughout operations in both countries.



Mansingh stated, “We are proud to have sustained 19,000 direct jobs across the two countries and have solidified our market presence through strategic acquisitions that widen our business reach. We acknowledge the interconnectedness of the region and are intentional about widening connectivity throughout the continent for our customers.”



The organisation’s impact on communities transcends job creation and access to goods and services; it encompasses a commitment to catalysing positive transformation and effecting tangible social change in the markets in which it operates. This includes initiatives ranging from providing accessible healthcare solutions in underserved communities to leading efforts aimed at enhancing infrastructure and stimulating development.



In Nigeria, the company operates road freight, logistics warehousing, and Market Access Consumer and Healthcare businesses, managing over 17,000 sqm of healthcare warehousing, 28,000 healthcare outlets, and 240,000 distribution points.



In South Africa, DP World provides freight forwarding, bulk transport, contract logistics, and 4PL services, with a fleet of 4,250 vehicles, and over 719,250 sqm of managed warehouse space.



In South Africa alone, DP World’s initiatives have improved access to healthcare solutions in underserved communities, driving savings of USD 11 million for patients.



The trade landscape cannot thrive without a conducive and sustainable environment – which has been made all the more urgent as the world acknowledges the impact of climate change. Natural resources have become increasingly strained, placing an obligation on the shoulders of businesses to lower their carbon emissions and create sustainable practices in their operations.



DP World globally is advancing its decarbonisation strategy, targeting a 42% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions and 28% reduction in Scope 3 carbon emissions by 2030, and net-zero across all scopes by 2050.



Greenhouse gas emissions are grouped into three scopes, the first being emissions that are owned by the company such as from the burning of fuel in fleet. Scope 2 emissions arise from electricity use and Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions incurred in the value chain because of the company’s activities.



By actively pursuing opportunities to minimise its environmental impact and promote efficient use of natural resources, DP World continuously embraces innovation across various fronts, including fleet management, alternative fuels, and water and waste recycling initiatives.



In South Africa, over the reporting period, this included achieving a 4,911-tonne reduction in emissions by recycling and using solar energy; a 4,911 MWh reduction in grid electricity using solar energy; and 2,2 million litres reduction in water usage through re-use initiatives. Fuel efficiency improvements for the commercial fleet continues to be a priority focus area.



In Nigeria, DP World demonstrated its resource efficiency through adding 150 new Euro 3 specification trucks, realising an 8% fuel efficiency improvement against Euro 2 equivalents.



Mansingh added, “In the broader trade ecosystem, our suppliers have the unique opportunity to harness the strength of DP World’s globally recognised brand and expansive international presence to fuel their own business growth. Through our procurement activities, we have not only reinforced their financial stability but also empowered them to scale and thrive within a highly competitive market.”



DP World has invested c. USD 3 billion in ports and logistics in Africa to date, including the acquisition of JSE listed Imperial Logistics in 2022 &#8211; a testament to the&nbsp;organisation’s&nbsp;long-term commitment to the region. Looking ahead, DP World remains&nbsp;committed to furthering&nbsp;its&nbsp;impact in Africa, with an additional c. USD&nbsp;3 billion investment in ports infrastructure and logistics development planned over the next 3&nbsp;to&nbsp;5 years. These investments will not only enhance&nbsp;DP World’s&nbsp;operational capabilities but also contribute to economic development across the continent.



DP World operates within a complex business ecosystem of external stakeholders, including governments, regulatory bodies, industry associations, shareholders, and financial institutions. By maintaining strict compliance with local regulations and fostering collaborative relationships with regulatory authorities, the company mitigates risks while building trust and transparency across its markets.



Mansingh concluded: “Recognising the deeply interconnected nature of regional economies, DP World understands that its influence extends beyond national borders, shaping the economic landscape of neighbouring countries. With a strategic focus on enhancing connectivity across Africa, we are committed to driving seamless trade flows and unlocking transformative opportunities for all stakeholders involved, creating a more integrated and prosperous future for the continent.”

Esha Mansingh_landscape

Changing what’s possible, and creating positive impact in sub-Saharan Africa’s trade environment

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="442" height="490" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Linda-Oniwe.png" alt="" class="wp-image-562892" style="width:440px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Linda-Oniwe.png 442w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Linda-Oniwe-271x300.png 271w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Linda-Oniwe-81x90.png 81w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 442px) 100vw, 442px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Linda Oniwe, Vice President for Technology, Media and Telecommunication at Standard Bank</figcaption></figure></div>


The global data centre industry has emerged as a cornerstone of the digital age, facilitating the storage, processing, and management of vast amounts of data. As businesses and individuals increasingly adopt advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud-based solutions and edge computing, the demand for robust data centres is growing exponentially.



Over the past decade, the global data centre industry has witnessed unprecedented growth. Valued at USD93.7 billion in 2023, the market is projected to maintain a strong growth trajectory with a CAGR of approximately 22% from 2018 to 2025. As digital transformation becomes a strategic imperative across various sectors, the need for secure, scalable, and reliable data storage and processing solutions has and will continue to skyrocket. Concerns about data privacy, data nationalism and data localization requirements further accelerate digital transformation initiatives, driving demand for local data centres.&nbsp;



In Africa, the industry, though still in its infancy, is rapidly growing and evolving, propelled by the continent’s burgeoning digital economy and its ability to leapfrog basic services through technological innovation. The increasing access to the internet and data usage, primarily via mobile phones, is fueling a digital revolution, positioning Africa as the next frontier of the global data centre industry.



We continue seeing strong demand fundamentals that favour Africa as a destination for data centres. Growing interest from the major global cloud service providers such as AWS, Google Cloud and Microsoft, along with content delivery network providers over the last few years continues to drive demand for data centre infrastructure.



Enterprise demand from governments and private companies migrating their servers to third-party leased space, as well as demand from connectivity providers are also significantly increasing demand. Many global, pan-African, and local data centre operators are recognizing this potential and are now investing in building robust data centre ecosystems to meet the growing demand for digital services. For example, Equinix which has invested USD160 million into its first facility in South Africa that will offer 1 860sq m of rack space with 4MW of IT load. Similarly, it also acquired MainOne, a West African data center provider. This acquisition allowed Equinix to expand its presence in Africa and leverage MainOne’s established infrastructure to strengthen its position in the region. Africa Data Centres, one of the largest pan African operators on the continent, has various facilities in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Lagos, and Nairobi and continues to have a strong pipeline of expansion sites. Digital Realty, another key player in the global data center industry, finalized a deal to acquire a majority stake in Teraco, an African data center provider with multiple facilities across South Africa. Private equity firms have likewise been actively involved in data centre investments across Africa. Notable names include Actis and Helios Investment Partners, who have invested in several data center projects across the continent.



However, the region faces challenges due to insufficient infrastructure investment, high temperatures requiring advanced cooling systems and late adoption, resulting in a disproportionate capacity gap. The African data centre colocation market also remains highly concentrated in a few countries, namely South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, and Kenya representing majority of the available white space. South Africa is the largest market in Africa, with approximately 300MW of live supply and accounting for around 70% of the continent’s IT load.



South Africa, with its advanced telecommunications infrastructure, strategic geographic location, and robust regulatory environment, stands as a prime destination for data centre investments in Africa, serving as a hub for the region. The country boasts a vibrant digital ecosystem, a growing tech-savvy population, a strong financial sector, and has various initiatives promoting the Information and Communications industry. Favorable land prices (compared to other countries on the continent and in developed markets), connectivity and infrastructure make it an attractive choice for hyperscale tenants expanding their operations across the continent, therefore driving demand for data centre infrastructure in country.



Despite this potential, several country specific challenges could inhibit growth. These include energy supply issues and costs, other environmental concerns such as cooling and water consumption, security concerns including crime, the construction mafia and cybersecurity, and a shortage of skilled labour.



International and local data centre operators continue to express strong interest in investing in Africa, particularly South Africa, with demand remaining robust. However, establishing strategic public-private partnerships is crucial for fostering industry growth and addressing current challenges. These initiatives may include investments in renewable energy sources which can support both a reduction in power costs and environmental impact of these facilities, enhanced security measures deployed to building sites as well as innovation and skills development by educational institutions.



The demand for cloud-computing and data centres in Africa plays a crucial role in driving digital transformation. Businesses benefit from increased processing speeds, reduced latency, and enhanced reliability, leading to improved operational efficiency and contributing to the digital success of organisations, ultimately resulting in improved service delivery and enhanced user experiences.&nbsp;

Linda Oniwe

Powering the Digital Age: The Rise of the African Data Centre Industry

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="707" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jeanne-Marie-Fatti-1-820x707.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-562872" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jeanne-Marie-Fatti-1-820x707.jpeg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jeanne-Marie-Fatti-1-300x259.jpeg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jeanne-Marie-Fatti-1-104x90.jpeg 104w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jeanne-Marie-Fatti-1-768x662.jpeg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jeanne-Marie-Fatti-1-1536x1324.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jeanne-Marie-Fatti-1-scaled.jpeg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jeanne-Marie Fatti, Senior Vice President: Energy &amp; Infrastructure, Corporate and Investment Banking at the Standard Bank of South Africa</figcaption></figure>



Johannesburg – 02 December 2024 – CrossBoundary Energy has secured a US$140M senior debt commitment from the Standard Bank of South Africa on a fully underwritten basis. The groundbreaking transaction highlights the potential role of commercial funders in supporting the adoption of renewable energy solutions by businesses across Africa.



The financing is being undertaken as a first tranche within a broader mandate with the Standard Bank of South Africa, which has been appointed to lead and arrange up to US$300M senior debt to support the scaling of CrossBoundary Energy&#8217;s renewable energy portfolio serving Commercial and Industrial (C&amp;I) clients across Africa.



CrossBoundary Energy was supported by Cygnum Capital acting as exclusive financial adviser, and by Bracewell (UK) LLP as borrower’s counsel. Trinity International LLP acted as lenders’ counsel on the transaction.



In Africa, access to reliable and affordable power is one of the largest impediments to business growth. While service providers can solve this, access to finance remains an immense barrier to companies accessing that power. The IEA estimates that the energy transition <a href="https://www.iea.org/reports/scaling-up-private-finance-for-clean-energy-in-emerging-and-developing-economies/executive-summary">will require US$160B annual </a>investment between 2026—2030 to align with climate goals, the bulk of which will come from the private sector.



Jeanne-Marie Fatti, Senior Vice President: Energy &amp; Infrastructure, Corporate and Investment Banking at the Standard Bank of South Africa, remarked, “There is a growing need for innovative energy solutions in Africa. Companies like CrossBoundary Energy are addressing this block holistically through energy systems that are financed, distributed, and led by renewables. Standard Bank is committed to supporting pioneers like CrossBoundary Energy on their growth trajectory”.



Pieter Joubert, President and Chief Investment Officer at CrossBoundary Energy, added, “Scalable, affordable infrastructure financing solutions are a catalyst to unlock reliable and affordable power access for businesses on the continent. Our partnership with Standard Bank will allow us to expand and accelerate energy-as-a-service to African customers, ultimately improving the sustainability and competitiveness of businesses across Africa”. 



CrossBoundary Energy provides financed renewable-led power solutions to African enterprises. Its current awarded portfolio comprises $570M of projects across 18 African countries, with 330 MW of solar and wind assets and 178 MWh of battery energy storage solutions. CrossBoundary Energy’s clients include leading businesses in the mining, industrial, and telecommunications sectors such as Rio Tinto, Unilever, Diageo, Heineken, the Devki Group, and IHS Africa. The portfolio features large-scale renewable-led hybrid power plants for mines, rooftop and ground-mount solar PV plants for industrial clients, and distributed solar PV and battery power solutions for telecommunications sites. CrossBoundary Energy is headquartered in Mauritius, with offices in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana.

Evoto

CrossBoundary Energy secures US$140M senior debt from the Standard Bank of South Africa to scale renewable energy portfolio across Africa

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Capetown-Landscape-2-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-562851" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Capetown-Landscape-2-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Capetown-Landscape-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Capetown-Landscape-2-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Capetown-Landscape-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Capetown-Landscape-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Capetown-Landscape-2-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">South Africa boasts an impressive 22,000 km of train tracks, weaving through its stunning landscapes. Image credit, Credit is the  Railway Safety Regulator </figcaption></figure>



When the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) unveiled the State of Safety Report 2023/24 on 30 October, it presented a pivotal moment for South Africa&#8217;s rail sector—a mirror reflecting not just its challenges but also its resilience and potential for transformation.



The report is a narrative of contrasts, blending progress with persistent hurdles. It paints a picture of decreasing operational fatalities yet exposes rising threats in security-related incidents. At its core, the report underscores the intricate tapestry of rail safety in South Africa, one where operational efficiency must coexist with security and infrastructural integrity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-progress-amid-adversities">Progress amid adversities</h2>



The strides made in reducing train accidents and operational fatalities are commendable. With an overall decrease in Fatalities Weighted Injuries (FWI) related to operational occurrences by 6% compared to the previous reporting period, the sector showcased the effectiveness of enhanced safety protocols and dedicated efforts from railway operators like Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).



Yet, the shadow of recurring incidents—like the 14% increase in train collisions and a sharp rise in people-related occurrences at station platforms—serves as a stark reminder that the safety journey is far from complete.



KwaZulu-Natal, contributing to 36% of the operational occurrences, remains a focal point, demanding urgent, tailored interventions. The province’s alarming rate of 896 recorded occurrences not only highlights systemic vulnerabilities but also calls for community-centric solutions, strengthened enforcement, and infrastructural upgrades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-security-conundrum">The security conundrum</h2>



The report unearths a troubling rise in security-related fatalities, with incidents escalating by 345.74% from the previous period. The new reporting category, &#8220;human bodies found within railway reserves,&#8221; alone contributed to a significant portion of these numbers, emphasizing the harsh realities within the railway environment.



Theft and vandalism, impacting 74% of security-related incidents, reveal systemic gaps in asset protection and the urgent need for robust collaboration between law enforcement and rail operators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-operational-challenges-and-the-way-forward">Operational challenges and the way forward</h2>



Operationally, South Africa&#8217;s railways faced unique stressors, not least of which was the ongoing electricity crisis. Frequent power outages disrupted services, amplified risks, and tested the resilience of safety systems. However, these challenges also became a crucible for innovation, as teams adapted to maintain operations under extraordinary pressures.



Amid these adversities, PRASA’s 116% surge in train kilometres and increased passenger rail usage reflects renewed public trust in rail as a viable transport option. This progress must be safeguarded with relentless vigilance and strategic investments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-collective-call-to-action">A collective call to action</h2>



The State of Safety Report is more than a ledger of incidents—it is a blueprint for transformation. The RSR’s mandate to oversee safety and collaborate with stakeholders provides a solid foundation, but real progress will require a unified effort from government, operators, communities, and regulatory bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-towards-a-safer-tomorrow">Towards a safer tomorrow</h2>



The 2023/24 State of Safety Report is a clarion call for change. South Africa&#8217;s rail sector stands at a crossroads where decisions made today will echo into the future. The question that looms is not just how challenges will be tackled but how the industry will seize this moment to reimagine a safer, more inclusive rail network.



The journey to transforming these insights into actionable progress is long, but the destination—a rail system that prioritises safety without compromise—is worth the effort.



For an in-depth look at the findings and the full report, visit <a href="http://www.rsr.org.za">www.rsr.org.za</a>.

Capetown Landscape  2

Rail safety in South Africa — Charting the path to a safer future

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="429" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/BrandVoice-Picture-820x429.png" alt="" class="wp-image-562004" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/BrandVoice-Picture-820x429.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/BrandVoice-Picture-300x157.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/BrandVoice-Picture-160x84.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/BrandVoice-Picture-768x402.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/BrandVoice-Picture.png 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



The Cambridge dictionary of an entrepreneur is, “someone who starts their own business, especially when this involves seeing a new opportunity,” underpinning the concepts of material gain from identifying an external need. Yet, for many, entrepreneurship holds a different meaning. In South Africa, a country with high unemployment and poverty rates, entrepreneurship often comes from desperation – the need to have enough to escape the present situation of no income, and a scarcity of opportunities that will alleviate the circumstances.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="500" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CoffeeMM-LOGO.png" alt="" class="wp-image-562003" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CoffeeMM-LOGO.png 500w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CoffeeMM-LOGO-300x300.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CoffeeMM-LOGO-90x90.png 90w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


Now a business valued at over two million rands, CoffeeMM was started by young entrepreneur Mhlengi Ngcobo from the nexus of his love for coffee and the dire need to improve his livelihood, eventually also morphing into the personal calling that he felt towards improving the livelihoods of others. Starting in 2017 as a small-batch and artisanal coffee roastery based in Stellenbosch, CoffeeMM opened its first coffee shop in 2021 with assistance from Ranyaka Community Transformation at the CoCreate Hub. In 2023, the CoffeeMM Academy opened, allowing for a holistic undertaking of the coffee industry and exponentially increasing the social impact that CoffeeMM could have. March 2024 saw the opening of Maties Coffee Hub, a coffee shop established in the heart of Stellenbosch University’s campus in collaboration with Stellenbosch University to offer students good quality and ethically sourced coffee.



Beyond this growth in operations, Ngcobo has received many accolades, inclusive of being listed in Forbes 30 under 30, recently being the African Young Business Leader of the Year finalist at the AABLA Awards 2024, and receiving multiple features in big publishing houses in South Africa. Despite CoffeeMM only selling one bag of coffee beans in its first year of operating in 2017, the success in the subsequent years is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship to mobilize and empower individuals to change their lives. Beyond that, entrepreneurship is also providing Ngcobo with the agency to challenge and redefine the status quo, and he is proud of the positive impact that CoffeeMM has.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-entrepreneur-mhlengi-ngcobo">Meet Entrepreneur Mhlengi Ngcobo</h2>



In the face of adversity, Ngcobo sees opportunity – the basis of his entrepreneurship journey and the motto that he wishes to spread, especially amongst the youth of South Africa where unemployment rates are highest amongst persons between the ages of 18 and 35. Over the last two years, Ngcobo, through the CoffeeMM Academy, has presented Entrepreneurship Courses at nine low-income high schools in and around Stellenbosch and Cape Town to over 300 learners, directly addressing the economic crisis and decreased morale that youth unemployment causes. The curriculum takes learners through the steps of starting their businesses firstly by identifying problems they see around them and then empowering them with the skills and knowledge to change their situations, despite the lack of opportunities or support that they might face. Learners are then challenged to work in groups to come up with solutions to the identified problems and turn the solutions into a profitable business.



A fundamental teaching of the Entrepreneurship Course is to urge students to take the pain points in their lives and to use them as ideas for their business – mimicking Ngcobo’s entrepreneurship history. During his high school career, Ngcobo was diagnosed with young hypertension and prescribed to limit his caffeine intake. In pursuit of understanding this diagnosis, Ngcobo sought to understand the science of caffeine, developing a keen interest in coffee in the process and empowering him with the knowledge of how to keep hypertension at bay while still enjoying his daily brew. Furthermore, when completing a project management module at Stellenbosch University, he decided to focus on developing a coffee roastery, building on his passion for coffee without knowing that the knowledge gained would soon become advantageous.



At 22, during his final year of completing a Bachelor&#8217;s Degree in Civil Engineering from Stellenbosch University, Ngcobo received a letter of academic exclusion stating that he could not continue his studies. After moving from Johannesburg to Stellenbosch for university, Ngcobo found himself in a desperate situation financially and with limited opportunities, impelling him to respond quickly to secure his livelihood. Thus, CoffeeMM was born out of necessity and entrepreneurship became the lifeline that allowed Ngcobo to transform a dire situation into an opportunity, building on his existing interest and knowledge of coffee. He set off on a pursuit of distributing excellent quality roasted coffee with bigger dreams of how coffee can be a mobilizer of good for others in positions similar to what he found himself in.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coffee-fuels-our-dreams">Coffee Fuels Our Dreams</h2>



While CoffeeMM is dedicated to supplying excellent coffee and services, in the bigger context, coffee is considered the vehicle that Ngcobo can use to mobilize the change that he wants to impart to the world. The focus points for Ngcobo include a long-term goal for the coffee industry on the African continent, whereas the second is reflected in the social work done through the CoffeeMM Academy.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The Coffee Industry on the African Continent</li>
</ul>



While coffee is depicted as a luxurious commodity, each cup also portrays the meeting point of various complex aspects of the coffee industry. In fact, among many elements of the coffee industry inequality is present, especially in coffee bean farming. On average, a coffee farmer earns only seven to ten percent of the retail price of coffee as the coffee beans are sold to middlemen, leaving the farmer impoverished. As with many other commodities, value is added through processing raw products – which would be the sorting and roasting of coffee beans – yet, due to the rural nature of where the biggest coffee farms are located, the infrastructure to process coffee beans is not present, thereby perpetuating the disparity in incomes of coffee traders.



These are systemic challenges that stem from various factors, inclusive of language and technological barriers, and, as complex problems do, they require complex solutions. While CoffeeMM sources ethical coffee, the long-term goal is to build route-to-market infrastructure for small-scale coffee farmers on the African continent to access the market directly, thereby increasing their income by removing the middleman and giving them bargaining power to negotiate the prices of their product. This is a radical and expansive undertaking for CoffeeMM that will unfold over a long time but is reflected in each decision that it makes as each deal or new venture takes the business closer to realizing it.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The Social Impact of the CoffeeMM Academy</li>
</ul>



<ol class="wp-block-list"></ol>



CoffeeMM is dedicated to developing the local coffee culture and making it more inclusive and diverse. This year, the CoffeeMM Academy hosted its second Barista Battle, a competition designed for baristas to come together and network amongst themselves and the broader coffee community, compete for prizes, get exposure through the CoffeeMM social media channels, and – most importantly – get the recognition that they deserve for the vital role that they play in the success of coffee shops. Being a barista can be challenging, from the technical skills that go into preparing coffee to maintaining the coffee station and the customer service aspect – and they often go unnoticed or unappreciated.



CoffeeMM also creates a positive social impact through the courses offered by the CoffeeMM Academy, inclusive of barista training, coffee roasting, and hospitality training. These courses focus on vocational and skills training to equip graduates with the confidence and competence to excel in the coffee industry, and graduates have gone on to find employment all over the world. The courses are offered at competitive prices and payment plans can be arranged, plus, multiple courses are sponsored for competition prizes or those in need. This year, CoffeeMM sponsored four barista training courses, valued at R2&nbsp;650 each, and two coffee roasting courses, valued at R5&nbsp;000 each, of which one went to a CoffeeMM employee to develop their skills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conclusion">Conclusion</h2>



A cup of coffee from CoffeeMM is the tangible product of entrepreneur Ngcobo’s craft mastered through diligent work and his dream of creating a life different from the one that he was handed, and that so many face. Ngcobo is a purveyor of entrepreneurship, especially in the South African context with inflated poverty and unemployment rates, realizing the power that it holds to not only create personal opportunities from hardship but to also produce positive change on a bigger scale. When you support CoffeeMM, you support intentional decision-making that not only minimizes harm but aims to actively improve the world in which it operates. You support a business that is passionate, yet critical, about the coffee industry and dedicated to the betterment of South Africa.

BrandVoice Picture

Using Coffee as a Catalyst for Positive Change in Africa

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="273" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_1-820x273.png" alt="" class="wp-image-561209" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_1-820x273.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_1-300x100.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_1-160x53.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_1-768x256.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_1-1536x512.png 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_1.png 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



As Africa stands on the verge of an urban mobility transformation, we are at a critical crossroads. The decisions made today will shape the future of transportation across the continent for decades to come. The objective is not merely to increase the number of vehicles on our roads but to ensure these vehicles are sustainable, efficient, and equitable. Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer just a trend; they are integral to achieving Africa’s sustainable transportation future.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-imperative-for-sustainable-mobility-in-africa"><a></a>The Imperative for Sustainable Mobility in Africa</h3>



Africa is urbanizing at an extraordinary pace. Cities such as Lagos, Accra, Johannesburg and Nairobi are expanding rapidly, and with this growth comes an increased demand for efficient and reliable transportation solutions. However, this urban growth also brings significant challenges: rising carbon emissions, air pollution, and traffic congestion. The dominance of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles only exacerbates these issues.



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According to global mobility experts Andreas Herrmann, Walter Brenner, and Rupert Stadler in Reinventing the Wheel: The Future of Mobility, adopting electric vehicles is about more than just reducing carbon footprints. It is about building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable transportation ecosystems for the future.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-case-for-electric-vehicles-in-africa"><a></a>The Case for Electric Vehicles in Africa</h3>



Why electric vehicles? The reasons are clear.



EVs offer a comprehensive solution to Africa’s mobility challenges, aligning well with the continent’s broader goals of sustainable development. They come with multiple advantages over traditional vehicles. Environmentally, electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, which can significantly reduce air pollution in densely populated cities across Africa. This is particularly critical in regions like Nigeria, where respiratory illnesses linked to poor air quality are on the rise.



Economically, EVs are more competitive. We are seeing a shift from the “green premium” to a “green discount”. The acquisition cost of an EV is now comparable to that of an ICE vehicle. The total cost of ownership is significantly lower due to reduced maintenance needs and lower energy costs. This is an especially crucial factor in Africa, where the price of petrol has increased recently. The acquisition cost of an EV is now comparable to that of an ICE vehicle. The total cost of ownership is significantly lower due to reduced maintenance needs and lower energy costs. This is an especially crucial factor in Africa, where the price of petrol has increased recently. For example, in Nigeria, fuel prices surged by over 215% between July 2022 and July 2023, and by 360% between July 2023 and October 2024. For drivers across the continent, cost efficiency will be a significant driver of EV adoption. For drivers across the continent, cost efficiency will be a significant driver of EV adoption.



Moreover, Africa is well-positioned to power its EVs through renewable energy sources like solar and wind, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="616" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_4-820x616.png" alt="" class="wp-image-561211" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_4-820x616.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_4-300x225.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_4-120x90.png 120w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_4-768x577.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_4-1536x1153.png 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_4.png 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



&nbsp;This presents a unique opportunity to lower operational costs and invest in local energy resources. The transition to electric mobility also promises job creation across various sectors—manufacturing, infrastructure development, and vehicle maintenance—as charging networks are built and maintained.



Like the continent&#8217;s rapid adoption of mobile banking and decentralized solar energy, Africa could leapfrog older transportation technologies by embracing electric vehicles.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-the-challenges"><a></a>Overcoming the Challenges</h3>



However, the shift to widespread electric vehicle adoption in Africa does present challenges. Limited charging infrastructure, high infrastructure development costs, low awareness, and limited product choices remain barriers to EV adoption. Yet, these hurdles are not insurmountable. Addressing them will require strategic collaborations across the value chain, including OEMs, financial institutions, investors, energy providers, fleet operators, auto distributors and Governments.



Several initiatives are already underway to expand EV infrastructure, including projects being developed by companies like MAX, Spiro, Kofa, and Oando Clean Energy.



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These innovators are building and scaling charging networks, EV assembly, and financing programs across Nigeria and other African nations. Innovative financing models will help make EVs more affordable for consumers, particularly in markets where upfront cost is a primary concern.



Public awareness is another key factor. Educating communities about the environmental and economic benefits of EVs will help shape perception and increase demand. A coordinated approach that includes infrastructure development, financial innovation, and community engagement will be critical to overcoming the challenges of EV adoption in Africa.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-mobility-in-africa"><a></a>The Future of Mobility in Africa</h3>



The vision for Africa’s future is one where transportation is not only efficient but also sustainable and inclusive. By embracing electric vehicles, we can reduce carbon emissions, improve public health, and create new economic opportunities. Our ultimate goal is to build a transportation system that is resilient, innovative, and equitable—one that leaves no one behind.



The road to sustainable transportation in Africa may be long, but with collaboration, vision, and determination, the continent can accelerate its transition to a greener, cleaner future.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="348" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_5-820x348.png" alt="" class="wp-image-561213" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_5-820x348.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_5-300x127.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_5-160x68.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_5-768x325.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_5-1536x651.png 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Max_Publication_Banner_5.png 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Electric vehicles will be central to this journey, serving as a driving force behind Africa’s sustainable mobility revolution.



The future of transportation in Africa depends on the choices we make today. By investing in electrification, we will create a cleaner, more sustainable continent. Whether you’re a business operator, community leader, or policymaker, now is the time to join the movement toward sustainable mobility on the Continent.

Max_Publication_Banner_5

On the Road to Sustainable Transportation Across Africa: Making a Case for Electric Vehicles

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="579" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Visit-Rwanda-F1-1-820x579.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-560078" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Visit-Rwanda-F1-1-820x579.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Visit-Rwanda-F1-1-300x212.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Visit-Rwanda-F1-1-127x90.jpg 127w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Visit-Rwanda-F1-1-768x543.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Visit-Rwanda-F1-1-1536x1085.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Visit-Rwanda-F1-1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



This weekend, Visit Rwanda is showcasing its unique and sustainable tourism experiences at the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix 2024. Located in the F1 FanZone, the booth highlights Rwanda’s vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes.



The activation also shines a spotlight on the upcoming FIA Awards 2024, set to take place in Kigali this December. Formula 1 fans can learn about exclusive travel packages and experiences tailored for the event, highlighting Rwanda as the host of this prestigious gathering.



Led by the Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, the Rwandan delegation includes representatives from RwandAir and the Rwandan Embassy in Qatar, and the Rwanda Motorsport Federation promoting Rwanda’s tourism and investment opportunities.



Visitors to the booth can enjoy premium Rwandan coffee, and insights into attractions like mountain gorilla trekking, luxury eco-lodges, and the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism.



&#8220;Rwanda’s presence at the Qatar Grand Prix underscores our dedication to promoting sustainable tourism globally. We invite Formula 1 fans to explore the incredible experiences Rwanda has to offer, especially during the FIA Awards this December,” said Janet Karemera, CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau.

Visit Rwanda – F1

Visit Rwanda to Showcase Unique Tourist Attractions at Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="461" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Africa-Collective-Davos-2025-Theme-Visual-820x461.png" alt="" class="wp-image-559802" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Africa-Collective-Davos-2025-Theme-Visual-820x461.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Africa-Collective-Davos-2025-Theme-Visual-300x169.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Africa-Collective-Davos-2025-Theme-Visual-160x90.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Africa-Collective-Davos-2025-Theme-Visual-768x432.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Africa-Collective-Davos-2025-Theme-Visual-1536x864.png 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Africa-Collective-Davos-2025-Theme-Visual.png 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Davos, Switzerland – 27 November 2024 – Africa Collective, in partnership with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) as Host Partner and under the patronage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, is proud to announce its overarching theme for Davos 2025: “Leading in 2025: From Regional Consolidation to Driving the Global Africa Agenda.” The announcement comes as Africa Collective gears up for a series of high-impact events on the margins of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting from 20 &#8211; 24 January 2025 at the Hard Rock Hotel in Davos, Switzerland.



This theme comes at a pivotal moment for the continent. For the first time, an African nation, South Africa, has assumed the presidency of the G20, taking over from Brazil in November 2024. This historic milestone marks a critical opportunity for Africa to place its development priorities and those of the Global South at the centre of the G20 agenda. South Africa’s presidency, coupled with the African Union’s (AU) newly secured permanent seat in the G20, is a key opportunity for the continent to shape global economic and geopolitical discussions in 2025.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rationale-for-the-theme">Rationale for the Theme</h2>



The theme “Leading in 2025: From Regional Consolidation to Driving the Global Africa Agenda” underscores Africa’s ongoing journey toward regional integration, a fundamental pillar of the AU’s Agenda 2063. The vision of a unified and economically empowered Africa hinges on consolidating regional efforts to position the continent as a formidable global economic actor.



With transformative initiatives led by Pan-African institutions such as the AU, AfCFTA Secretariat, and Afreximbank, Africa is making significant strides in industrialisation, trade harmonisation, and private sector development. These efforts will drive local productivity, reducing the cost of doing business, and enhancing intra-African trade and investment.



The continent’s global leadership position offers a unique opportunity to ensure the continent’s voice is not only heard but actively shapes international discourse. However, coordination and collaboration between Africa’s public and private sectors will be essential to fully harness this potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-africa-collective-s-program-at-davos-2025">Africa Collective&#8217;s Program at Davos 2025</h2>



One of the key features of the programme will be a high-level closing lunch on 23 January at the Hard Rock Hotel, where the Africa Collective Davos 2025 theme will be unpacked in greater detail. The exclusive event will conclude the week with a high-level panel dialoguewith panellists and participants, including decision-makers from the public and private sectors, exploring how Africa can consolidate its regional gains and leverage its growing influence on the global stage.



The Africa Collective Davos 2025 programme will provide a weeklong permanent space dedicated to advancing African business topics. It will also feature a series of thematic sessions, networking receptions, and strategic discussions attended by key decision-makers from African corporations, inventors, multinationals, institutions, and development finance organisations. These sessions will tackle critical issues shaping Africa’s future, fostering collaboration and partnerships essential for achieving Africa’s economic goals.



Africa Collective’s presence in Davos builds on its successful engagement and presence on the sidelines of the WEF since 2020. The 2025 edition promises to elevate the dialogue around Africa’s role in driving global prosperity and to deepen partnerships that further the continent&#8217;s agenda.



Please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/africacollective/?viewAsMember=true">LinkedIn Page</a>&nbsp;for more information about Africa Collective and updates on the programme and activities in Davos and beyond.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-the-african-continental-free-trade-area-afcfta-secretariat-nbsp">About the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat&nbsp;</h2>



The AfCFTA is the world’s largest free trade area, bringing together the 55 countries of the African Union (AU) and eight (8) Regional Economic Communities (RECs). The overall mandate of the AfCFTA is to create a single continental market with a population of about 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP of approximately US$ 3.4 trillion. The AfCFTA is one of the flagship projects of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, the African Union’s long-term development strategy for transforming the continent into a global powerhouse.&nbsp;



The AfCFTA Secretariat coordinates and facilitates the implementation of the AfCFTA agreement among African states.&nbsp; It also engages stakeholders to promote the AfCFTA and undertakes trade and investment promotion activities to enhance intra-African trade, among other duties.&nbsp;



For more information, visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.au-afcfta.org/">www.au-afcfta.org</a>&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-afreximbank-nbsp">About Afreximbank&nbsp;</h2>



African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra-and extra-African trade. For 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialization and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA.&nbsp;



Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank is setting up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2023, Afreximbank’s total assets and guarantees stood at over US$37.3 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$6.1 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.&nbsp;



For more information, visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.afreximbank.com/">www.afreximbank.com</a>&nbsp;



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-africa-collective-nbsp">About Africa Collective&nbsp;</h3>



Africa Collective is an information, exchange and collaboration platform for Africa. Its network, events and publications are focused on advancing the African continent globally. Through its network, events, and publications, Africa Collective champions the continent’s interests and opportunities on the global stage. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat has proudly supported the initiative as Patronage Partner from the beginning, while Africa Unlimited is the Management Partner. Together with key partners—including Afreximbank, Novartis, Standard Bank, Old Mutual, and Ventures Platform Fund, amongst others. Africa Collective combines forces, resources and existing initiatives to amplify Africa’s voice and advance its position on the global stage.&nbsp;



Africa Collective was formed during a high-level business roundtable on Africa in Davos, Switzerland, at the time of the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in January 2020. Based on the impactful discussions between pan-African and global leaders held on the occasion, Africa Collective was formally launched together with the AfCFTA Secretariat as a patronage partner and in the presence of H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, at an inaugural luncheon held on&nbsp;19 January 2023.&nbsp;



The platform is an all-year, pan-African initiative by and for private &amp; public sector players on the continent. Besides its yearly flagship representation in Davos since 2020, the platform has a strong presence at critical events in Africa and beyond, including the Africa CEO Forum, AfCFTA Business Forum “Biashara Afrika” and AfCFTA Intra-African Trade Fair.&nbsp;&nbsp;



For more information, visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.africacollective.xyz/">www.africacollective.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/africacollective/?viewAsMember=true">LinkedIn Page</a>&nbsp;

Africa Collective Davos 2025- Theme Visual

Africa Collective Announces Davos 2025 Theme: “Leading in 2025: From Regional Consolidation to Driving the Global Africa Agenda”

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="461" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-1-820x461.png" alt="" class="wp-image-558434" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-1-820x461.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-1-300x169.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-1-160x90.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-1-768x432.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-1-1536x864.png 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-1.png 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Counder Conference 2025, set to take place in Cape Town, South Africa from January 29 to 31 2025, is poised to be a landmark event for Africa’s investment landscape, bringing together top global and African investors &amp; capital allocators/industry leaders.</figcaption></figure>



Counder Conference 2025, set to take place in Cape Town, South Africa from January 29 to 31 2025, is poised to be a landmark event for Africa’s investment landscape, bringing together top global and African investors &amp; capital allocators/industry leaders.



Designed for a trusted audience of just 500 high-profile attendees, this gathering offers a unique platform to discuss Africa’s immense growth potential and foster impactful collaborations. This year’s theme, “Investing in Africa &amp; Beyond,” underscores the opportunities at Counder Conference to explore Africa’s dynamic growth opportunities &#8211; and look beyond in a global technology outlook.



Iconic Venues to Inspire Connection



Counder Conference 2025 has selected Cape Town’s most prestigious venues to create a collaborative and inspiring atmosphere. Each of them highlights different aspects of the world-class environment Cape Town offers, from sea to mountains and from art to cuisine.



•&nbsp;Opening Reception&nbsp;– Official Residence of the German Consul in Cape Town: The conference will be kicked off at this private, exclusive venue in Bishopscourt, offering a refined environment for thought-provoking dialogue.



•&nbsp;Main Conference Day&nbsp;– Norval Foundation: The main panels and program will happen at the renowned Norval Foundation, a cultural landmark celebrated for its contemporary African art and serene gardens. This elegant venue sets the tone for the conference, blending sophistication with inspiration.



•&nbsp;Closing Day&nbsp;– The Lawns: The final day will be hosted at The Lawns, a picturesque venue overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This relaxed and scenic setting will be perfect for consolidating connections and reflecting on the conference insights. It will also be the base for interactive activities, like a conference hike.



High-Profile Attendees Shaping The Future



Counder Conference 2025 will host an exceptional lineup of global and African leaders, including representatives from family offices, funds, and investors. A small selection of confirmed attendees include the following.



International investors from an entrepreneurial background, like:&nbsp;



• Shola Akinlade, Co-founder and CEO of Paystack, a fintech pioneer building scalable solutions for Africa’s digital economy. Paystack was sold to Stripe for USD 200m in 2020.&nbsp;



• Fedor Holz, World Series of Poker Champion, CEO of Pokercode, with poker career earnings of USD 35m, now applying his strategic expertise to leadership and innovation as an investor.



International family offices and businesses like Ringier, Schauenburg, Elleke, Schwarz, Vogel and others.



Pan-African investment leaders from various backgrounds like:&nbsp;



• Olumide Soyombo, Co-founder of Bluechip Technologies and one of Africa’s leading angel investors, driving tech innovation across the continent.&nbsp;



• Aguil Deng, Corporate Philanthropy leader at Bloomberg LP, dedicated to driving impactful social change and advancing economic opportunities globally.



South Africa-based investors, like:&nbsp;



• Tom Boardman, Non-Executive Director at African Rainbow Capital, TymeBank, and Ubuntu-Botho Investments, and former CEO of Nedbank Group Limited, a leader in sustainable business practices and philanthropy.



• Dr. Michael Jordaan, CEO of Montegray Capital and former CEO of FNB, recognized for his transformative leadership in banking and disruptive tech investments across Africa.



Business veterans/capital allocators like:&nbsp;



• Kuseni Dlamini, Chairman of Massmart &amp; Aspen Pharma, with extensive experience in corporate leadership, strategic investments, and driving South Africa’s industrial growth.



• Eric Idiahi, CEO of Evercorp Industries, a platform for energy, beverages and financial services companies out of Nigeria.



As well as the partners of international funds like Novastar Ventures, Norrsken22, TLCom, Grey Heron Venture Partners, E4E, 4Di Capital, w3 fund &amp; CVVC.



The conference’s Host Partner is Carlsquare and Lead Media Partner is CNBC Africa.



This exceptional roster represents just a fraction of the visionary leaders and investors shaping the conversation at Counder Conference 2025.



A Global Platform for Transformative Collaboration



Counder Conference 2025 is more than an event—it’s a trusted and unique platform for sparking ideas and forging partnerships that will shape the future of investment in Africa &amp; beyond. With a focus on high-growth sectors, technology innovation and sustainability the conference creates a trusted space for building connections and driving impactful action.



How to Participate



Whether you’re an investor, fund manager, or industry leader, Counder Conference 2025 offers unparalleled networking opportunities and exclusive insights.



For more details on attendance and partnership opportunities, visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.counder.com/conference" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.counder.com/conference</a>



Counder Conference 2025: Because real change happens face-to-face and in trusted environments.

image (1)

Counder Conference Confirms High-Profile Venues & Attendees for Cape Town, January 2025

The drive to innovate across Africa is on the rise, with a thriving startup ecosystem underpinning its potential as a technological powerhouse. Home to the youngest and fastest-growing population in the world, the continent today is more connected than ever before,<a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1124283/internet-penetration-in-africa-by-country/"> with internet users jumping more than 350%</a> in the past ten years.



Amid this rapid digital evolution, fintech continues to be the leading vertical for investment within the broader African tech landscape. Since 2000, African fintechs have cumulatively<a href="https://www.bcg.com/publications/2023/africa-unlocking-the-fintech-potential"> raised $6 billion in equity financing</a>, reflecting strong investor confidence in a sector expected to<a href="https://www.bcg.com/publications/2023/africa-unlocking-the-fintech-potential"> reach $65 billion in revenue by 2030 – a 13-fold increase from 2021</a>. Despite a global <a href="https://www.fintechfutures.com/2024/07/global-fintech-investment-fell-by-19-in-h1-2024-according-to-new-innovate-finance-report/">slowdown in fintech funding in the past year</a>, the long-term forecast for Africa appears optimistic, driven by a young and tech-savvy demographic that creates fertile ground for fintech solutions, coupled with an increasingly supportive ecosystem.



Recognizing this vast potential, the Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator program continues its commitment to uplifting fintech. Since its inception in 2023, the Accelerator has enabled up to 45 startups a year to take part in an intensive 12-week program offering mentorship, resources, and opportunities to secure funding, reflecting Visa’s mission to champion fintech solutions across industries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accelerator-momentum-continues">‘Accelerator’ momentum continues</h2>



Now in its 3rd cohort, the Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator has announced 19 new startups shortlisted to participate in its biannual program. Representing 21 African countries and diverse subsectors—from embedded finance and SME lending to digital banking—the startups will gain access to tools, connections, and expertise to scale their solutions, aligning with Visa&#8217;s ongoing investment in Africa’s digital transformation. Supporting the entrepreneurial drive of women across the continent, 85% of the startups feature female leadership, rising from less than 50% in the inaugural edition<a href="#_ftn5" id="_ftnref5">[5]</a>.



The three-month program will conclude with an exclusive in-person Demo Day, offering startups the opportunity to showcase their groundbreaking solutions to an audience of investors, industry leaders, and potential partners.



Support for participating startups extends beyond the parameters of the program. Recently, Visa announced strategic investments in four fintechs—Oze, Workpay, OkHi, and ORDA—that graduated from the Accelerator’s inaugural cohort. This continued commitment spotlights Visa’s dedication to fostering digital growth throughout Africa, helping to bolster financial development and inclusion in every corner of the continent.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-19-startups-participating-in-cohort-3-of-the-visa-africa-fintech-accelerator-include">The 19 startups participating in Cohort 3 of the Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator include:</h3>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="http://www.credable.io/">Credable</a> (Kenya) Credable is a digital banking platform that helps businesses and financial institutions across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) embed financial services into their core offerings.</li>



<li><a href="https://fixarwanda.com/">Fixa</a> (Rwanda) Fixa is an end-to-end staffing platform. Their software enables quick sourcing and deployment of on-demand blue-collar workers to businesses across Africa.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.kacha.et/">Kacha</a> (Ethiopia) Kacha is the first fully licensed private payment instrument issuer in Ethiopia, offering mobile money, bill payments, and remittances through their platform.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.melaninkapital.com/">Melanin Kapital</a> (Kenya) Melanin Kapital is building a carbon neobank for African businesses to access green loans and carbon credits.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.umba.com/kenya/umba-business">Umba</a> (Kenya) Umba is a fully licensed digital microfinance bank, offering bank accounts and financial services to customers in Kenya and Nigeria.</li>



<li><a href="https://zendawa.africa/#/">Zendawa</a> (Kenya) Zendawa is enabling neighborhood pharmacies to sell online and use embedded finance services.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.enzagroup.global/">Enza</a> (Egypt) Enza helps banks better engage SMEs with mobile-led acceptance and extends banks’ current offerings to SMEs with lending and deposits.</li>



<li><a href="https://moneco.app/">Moneco</a> (Algeria) Moneco is a neobank that links Europe to Africa with the aim of easing access to bank accounts for the African diaspora.</li>



<li><a href="https://moneyhash.io/">MoneyHash</a> (Egypt) MoneyHash consolidates multiple payment APIs into a single integration point, simplifying the payment and routing process for their merchants.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.wafr.co/">WafR</a> (Morocco) WafR has developed a digital wallet that allows informal merchants to market financial services across Morocco.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.blockmarketsafrica.com/">Block Markets Africa</a> (South Africa) Block Markets Africa uses real-world asset tokenization to build open financial markets infrastructure (FMI) and institutional applications.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.gojabu.com/">Jabu</a> (Namibia) Jabu provides a suite of cash management and digital financial service products across Southern Africa.</li>



<li><a href="https://ordev.io/">Ordev</a> (South Africa) Ordev is an aggregated middleware platform that integrates digital services and providers for retail and hospitality businesses across Africa.</li>



<li><a href="https://sticitt.co.za/">Sticitt</a> (South Africa) Sticitt simplifies school-related payments to increase collections from parents and the wider community while reducing admin work.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.getbumpa.com/">Bumpa</a> (Nigeria) Bumpa is powering digital commerce for retail and D2C businesses in Africa.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.kredete.com/">Kredete</a> (Nigeria) Kredete is a digital lending marketplace that provides an all-in-one credit infrastructure for borrowers and lenders across the continent.</li>



<li><a href="https://nearpays.com/">NearPays</a> (Nigeria) NearPays is a full-service payment platform for businesses to pay, accept payments, transfer funds, and track cash flow.</li>



<li><a href="https://paysika.co/en/">PaySika</a> (Cameroon) PaySika is building the first challenger bank in Central Africa, empowering both individuals and SMEs to receive IBANs and transfer money across Africa.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.wewire.com/">WeWire</a> (Ghana) WeWire is a B2B cross-border payments solution to help businesses easily collect and pay their vendors, suppliers, and trade partners.</li>
</ol>

277A9374

Visa’s commitment to fintech continues with 3rd cohort of Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator

Zakhele Mayisa, Co-Head of Africa Infrastructure at Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking, South Africa and Geoffrey Gangla, Chief Representative Officer and Head of East Africa Coverage at Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking, Kenya



Stories abound of how young school children in rural areas across Africa walk long distances to reach their places of learning and of pregnant women who must be carried in wheelbarrows to receive medical attention at clinics in outlying areas. There are also tales of how poor road infrastructure has and continues to hinder the transportation of goods across the region, which, in some areas, become inaccessible during the rainy season.



Congested and inefficient port and harbour infrastructure has also caused inordinate delays to move goods or resulted in ships taking weeks to berth to unload their cargo. Inadequate border infrastructure means transporting people and goods takes longer than it should – a frustrating experience for businesses and individuals. This affects efforts to not only boost intraregional trade and investment but tourism and intraregional travel as well.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="533" height="800" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ZakheleMayisa.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555798" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ZakheleMayisa.jpg 533w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ZakheleMayisa-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ZakheleMayisa-60x90.jpg 60w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Zakhele Mayisa, Co-Head of Africa Infrastructure at Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking, South Africa.</figcaption></figure></div>


These examples emphasise the importance of adequate and modern transport networks and infrastructure to facilitate economic growth and achieve better lives in a continent where inequality persists. Poor national and regional road networks, fragmented rail systems, and inadequate airports and ports increase logistics costs and hamper economic diversification and industrialisation efforts. This limits the competitiveness of African goods in both regional and global markets.&nbsp;



All is not lost though. African governments have acknowledged the importance of investments in infrastructure, in particular transport infrastructure, because it is the backbone of any economy, let alone the region. They also realise that infrastructure development is critical owing to its significant impact on economic growth and social progress. Infrastructure development is also crucial to thrive under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which aim to improve the continent’s trade position in the global economy.



To unlock growth and trade opportunities and to bring meaningful development to communities, a coordinated approach between public and private investors is needed to attract investment in infrastructure, including efficient and modern integrated transport and logistic networks. Current estimates from the <a href="https://www.afdb.org/en/news-and-events/public-private-partnerships-needed-bridge-africas-infrastructure-development-gap-65936">African Development Bank</a> (AfDB) show that Africa needs between $130 and $170 billion in annual infrastructure funding, with a financing gap of $68 to $108 billion. At least 15% of this total relates to transport infrastructure.



Prioritising cross-border transport infrastructure as part of economic development plans has become even more critical if the region is to achieve its developmental, economic, and social goals. For instance, Tanzania has identified transport as a key focus area under its &#8216;Tanzania Development Vision 2025&#8217;, aiming to improve roads, railways, as well as air and water transport systems.



Similar projects are underway in Kenya, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), focusing on integrated transport corridors, highways, and border posts, as well as ports and harbours. While these investments are commendable, additional capital is needed to expand and achieve modern, cost-effective, integrated transport infrastructure.



Cross-border connectivity remains a challenge, even in regions with increasing integration, like east and southern Africa. Concessionary funding from Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) will therefore be crucial for developing cross-border transport systems beyond pit-to-port models, expanding railways and roads to support multi-sector growth and private sector development.



The significant investment required for large-scale, cross-border projects demands innovative financing solutions. This will involve public-private partnerships (PPPs) to leverage risk-sharing mechanisms and blend funding sources. DFI support is especially crucial for low-income countries with underdeveloped financial markets, enabling them to secure necessary infrastructure investment.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="715" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1000097535-1-820x715.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-555799" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1000097535-1-820x715.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1000097535-1-300x262.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1000097535-1-103x90.jpg 103w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1000097535-1-768x669.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1000097535-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Geoffrey Gangla, Chief Representative officer and head of East Africa coverage at Nedbank Corporate and investment Banking, Kenya&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>



A successful PPP model requires supportive policies, government guarantees, and flexible project frameworks, since no &#8216;one-size-fits-all&#8217; strategy works across Africa’s diverse markets. Well-structured contract drafting ensures clarity in operations and maintenance responsibilities, attracting private investors and spreading financial risk.



Financial institutions like Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking will play a critical role in unlocking investment for transport infrastructure and improving cross-border connectivity across Africa. With a growing presence in Tanzania and east Africa, Nedbank is well-positioned to facilitate these investments.



Regional governments should therefore continue to implement macroeconomic and financial reforms to attract large-scale private sector capital for transport infrastructure. Addressing sovereign and political risks will be critical in enhancing investor confidence in the transport infrastructure sector. These reforms are essential for facilitating the movement of goods and promoting trade and growth across Africa.



Investing in transport infrastructure today will pave the way for a connected, prosperous Africa tomorrow; one that can trade competitively, grow sustainably, and thrive regionally. It will also address the inequality that exists between the impoverished and the wealthier people across the continent, because better infrastructure is essential for better lives.

1000097535 1

Driving Africa’s future through transport infrastructure

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1365" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GettyImages-1770718226-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-554129" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GettyImages-1770718226-scaled.jpg 2048w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GettyImages-1770718226-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GettyImages-1770718226-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GettyImages-1770718226-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GettyImages-1770718226-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GettyImages-1770718226-1536x1024.jpg 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Schoolgirl sitting at group desk working on digital tablet</figcaption></figure>



Social media has been described as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it connects us globally, helps to break barriers and is a platform&nbsp;for&nbsp;self-expression&nbsp;and&nbsp;creativity. On the other, it is also often blamed for eroding real-world, in-person connections.&nbsp;



However, the increased penetration of internet connectivity, mobile, and smart devices in Africa has seen young people on the continent embrace the use of social media to advance their education by accessing information and learning materials in real-time, helping them connect with other learners, educators, and mentors across geographical boundaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;



To give deeper insights into how young people are using social media for education and learning, the November edition of the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Mondays Africa featured views and opinions of undergraduate students from the United States International University of Africa (USIU-Africa) in Nairobi, Kenya. The discussions contextualized how young people at higher-learning institutions use social media to research, participate in discussion groups, communicate with lecturers, and collaborate with peers on group assignments. Through social media tools and platforms, young people are understanding the world in a way previous generations did not and are gaining exposure to diverse learning experiences. &nbsp;



“I spend almost eight hours a day on social media platforms. It has influenced my learning space tremendously. It also helps me complete my assignments and meet people who are more advanced in my career path, such as data scientists,” says Martin Kyaremateng, a Ghanaian undergraduate student in Data Science and Analytics at USIU-Africa.&nbsp;



Kyaremateng, who juggles his time between 20 WhatsApp groups adds, “I have also benefited from the influx of new social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Instagram. This is the best thing that has ever happened to the world of technology because when I was in high school, we only had WhatsApp as an information-sharing tool, but a lot of my connections today come because of my presence on platforms like LinkedIn.”&nbsp; &nbsp;



Carine Ishimwe from Rwanda is another undergraduate student at USIU-Africa, pursuing a degree in Information Systems and Technology and majoring in Cyberspace and Forensics. She uses social media not only for entertainment, but as a learning tool too.&nbsp;



Ishimwe spends close to 10 hours a day on social media, interacting with other learners and educators across 50 WhatsApp groups. And while some of her activities on social media are related to entertainment, many others, she says, are related to schoolwork. “Social media has changed my life for the better. I got scholarship links from one of my friends on WhatsApp,” says Ishimwe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



Global studies show educators are becoming increasingly aware of social media’s effect on the learning process. According to Georgetown University, students were said to react positively whenever a teacher was willing to use social media as a learning tool since “an online chat discussing a certain book gives students the ability to open up and share their opinions.”&nbsp;



That is how Dr. Collins Oduor, an Assistant Professor of Information Systems at USIU-Africa’s School of Science and Technology, prefers to look at technology – as an interactive communication tool for both learners and educators. Dr. Oduor engages his students on the school’s WhatsApp group where important messages are shared not only within his department but university wide.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Dr. Oduor says social media has opened up and enlarged the scope of education, since students are learning to do more research, learn more than what is presented in lectures, and assess the information&#8217;s value. It also makes student-teacher communication more convenient.



“My work has become very easy in terms of reaching out directly to the students because social media gets us close with each other in terms of breaking the barriers. I am able to reach them at any time, even after the official hours. They can also reach out to me at any given time. To me, the benefits of social media far outweigh the disadvantages,” says Dr. Oduor.&nbsp;



Dr. Oduor advises that rather than reduce their use of social media, learners need to be empowered to learn how to use it productively so that when they come to class, they can share meaningful ideas, have deep discussions, and see how the knowledge acquired can be applied for better outcomes.&nbsp;



However, there are also the dangers that come with the uncontrolled use of social media. Grace Makwaza, a student from Lesotho studying International Relations and Criminal Justice at the university, says she thinks social media presents a “challenge [to] our intrinsic values as human beings”.&nbsp;



Makwaza urges young people to strike a balance, rather than categorize social media as a good or bad tool. “Social media is a tool. However, the moment I see myself spending more than 12 hours there, I question my capacity to hold on to my value of discipline. Perhaps that discipline is not as strong as it is supposed to be,” she says. “So more than anything, I think we need to gauge how strong our intrinsic values are, instead of polarizing social media as either a good or a bad tool.”&nbsp;&nbsp;



Another major drawback of social media is the distraction caused by the constant flow of information. During class or examination time, Dr. Oduor ensures that school rules regulating the use of social media are strictly adhered to, including the prohibition of using phones in the exam room “unless the exam is an open book.”&nbsp;&nbsp;



There are also fears that social media distraction can interfere with the learning of subjects that require strict discipline. Jennifer Bessie, a Psychology student, says her professors will not allow them to be distracted by phones because that will interfere with work ethics as practicing psychologists in future.&nbsp;According to Bessie, uncontrolled use of social media is detrimental to the emotional and mental growth of learners in the younger brackets.&nbsp;



&#8220;As a student in the psychology field, we have learnt much about cyber bullying and its effects on mental health.&nbsp;Teenagers and other young learners have started to compare themselves with what they see on social media and that is very worrisome. Too much screen time affects the development of such young children,” she says.&nbsp;



However, Bessie says social media has key advantages&nbsp;in psychology, including online counselling.&nbsp;



“Due to the limited number of psychologists in the world and the rise in mental health issues, we found out that having online tools at USIU-Africa&#8217;s counselling centre where I trained as a peer counsellor is good because&nbsp;we can have online counselling sessions with those we can&#8217;t meet physically. You can still get in touch with such people and help them manage certain mental health issues. So, social media may have some distractions, but it has a lot of mental health advantages for those of us in the psychology field,” says Bessie.&nbsp;



Dr. Oduor says that “most institutions of learning do not have social media policies,” a challenge that both governments and learning institutions share.&nbsp;



As a way forward, he suggests that there is a need to craft policies that support the use of social media to achieve the true impact in education across board.&nbsp;



While more public schools are embracing usage of tablets and adding computer literacy to curricula, a lot more work needs to be done to streamline national and institutional-wide policies to promote positive use of social media in the learning environment. &nbsp;



With social media now an invaluable tool for learning in education and the work environment, such policies will need to be both protective and productive, unlike the reactive nature of current laws. In the meantime, it will require discipline and parental regulation on screen time for young learners, for all to benefit from social media while avoiding unintended drawbacks.&nbsp;



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-watch-the-full-episode">Watch the full episode:</h3>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="EdTech Monday: The Impact of Social Media on Education and Learning" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pzY7hfwvLvg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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The Impact of Social Media on Education and Learning in Africa

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="2048" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_1-scaled.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-553716" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_1-scaled.jpeg 2048w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_1-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_1-800x800.jpeg 800w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_1-90x90.jpeg 90w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_1-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_1-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></figure>



[Cape Town, South Africa – 12 November 2024] — HONOR, a global technology leader, spearheaded a panel discussion at AfricaCom and was joined by prominent leaders from Google and Cell C to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and foldable smartphones are set to revolutionise the African market and transform people’s lives.



The fireside chat, led by Fred Zhou, CEO of HONOR South Africa featured Jorge Mendes, CEO of Cell C and Vinod Nenwani, Android Partnerships for North and South Africa at Google. The panel shed light on the potential of emerging technologies to drive sustained growth, boost digital inclusion, and accelerate connectivity across Africa. It also highlighted the need for collaboration among multiple stakeholders to fully unlock the continent’s digital potential.



In the discussion, HONOR reiterated its commitment to leveraging AI for good and working with stakeholders. “HONOR ensures it follows local regulations wherever we operate. We support the Ministry of Communications and Digital Technologies’ balanced approach to unlock AI&#8217;s full potential while ensuring its equitable benefits for all Africans,” says Fred Zhou, CEO of HONOR South Africa. In particular, HONOR shares the Ministry’s belief that responsible AI deployment must serve the greater good without compromising fundamental human rights.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionising-connectivity-and-inclusion-through-innovation">Revolutionising connectivity and inclusion through innovation</h2>



The panelists emphasised that AI-powered smartphones and the proliferation of devices represent a new era in mobile technology. These innovations promise to make technology more accessible, intuitive, and beneficial for people in Africa. By improving user experiences, expanding possibilities for multitasking, and driving new applications for both personal and professional use, these advancements could significantly elevate the quality of digital life for millions.



“Technology has the power to change lives, and the amazing capabilities of smartphones is allowing us to use it for education and driving the growth of the digital economy,” comments Mendes. “We’re committed to working closely with partners like HONOR to ensure these advancements contribute meaningfully to bridging the digital divide.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="2048" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_2-scaled.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-553717" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_2-scaled.jpeg 2048w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_2-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_2-800x800.jpeg 800w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_2-90x90.jpeg 90w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_2-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HONOR-AfricaCom_2-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">From Left: Fred Zhou, HONOR South Africa CEO, Minister of Communications and Digital Communications, Solly Malatsi and Daniel Wang, President of MEA, HONOR</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honor-s-commitment-to-africa-s-digital-economy">HONOR’s commitment to Africa’s digital economy</h2>



HONOR’s involvement in the discussion comes as the company continues to make major investments in the South African economy, with over R400 million invested to date. These contributions include support for impactful initiatives such as the Youth Employment Service (YES) Program and the Code with HONOR initiative, which focuses on empowering the next generation with technological skills.



“HONOR is deeply committed to fostering local innovation and youth empowerment in South Africa,” add Zhou. “Our investment in projects like the YES Program and Code with HONOR not only supports job creation but also ensures young people are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-collaboration-for-sustained-growth">The role of collaboration for sustained growth</h2>



The technology leaders agreed that the future of Africa’s smartphone market depends on multi-stakeholder collaboration. By working together, companies can address the unique challenges of the continent, from infrastructure limitations to affordability and digital literacy. Vinod Nenwani,&nbsp; Android Partnerships for North and South Africa, highlighted the importance of partnership-driven efforts to sustain rapid growth and economic development.



“What we are seeing is a platform shift. As we continue our mission to make information universally accessible, Google is dedicated to enhancing connectivity across Africa,” explains Nenwani. “As responsible players, we can ensure that the technology reaches even the most underserved communities, providing opportunities for economic empowerment and inclusion.”



Commenting on how AI needs to be inclusive, Zhou explains how the brand is making AI features accessible even in its midrange devices, a differentiator he believes to be paramount.



HONOR marked its debut participation at AfricaCom 2024 where it hosted a walk-through with the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, showcasing its industry-leading technology.

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