Author: Gugu Lourie
Vodacom Business’s Mezzanine’s Connected Farmer platform, branded as eVuna, is revolutionising agriculture in Africa by digitally empowering small-scale farmers. The platform connects farmers to vital resources – information, inputs, credit, and markets – boosting productivity and income. In Kenya, the eVuna eVouchering programme has seen remarkable success, with over 6 million farmers registered and 3.5 million vouchers redeemed. Farmers using eVuna have accessed more than $1 million in capital, leading to an 80% increase in yields and an additional $600 in revenue per farmer. “eVuna plays a crucial role in linking the small-scale farming community to the people and resources they need to thrive. ,” says Videsha Proothveerajh, Director of Vodacom Business. “Over a…
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has issued a public warning, urging caution against dealing with Neo Forex Institute. The regulator has found that the entity is offering unauthorised forex trading signals through Instagram and Telegram, leading to financial losses for investors. Unauthorised Forex Signals Operation The FSCA has received multiple complaints from individuals who paid for trading signals from Neo Forex Institute, only to suffer losses. “Providing forex signals without a licence is a criminal offence,” the FSCA stated. Forex signal providers often: Charge subscription fees or take a percentage of profits. Share fake trading patterns to lure investors. Profit even when clients lose money through broker commissions. Neo Forex Institute Not Authorised The FSCA confirmed that Neo Forex…
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has issued a public warning, urging caution when dealing with Forex Venus SA and Mr. Ofentse Maluleke. The regulator has found that the two are soliciting funds from the public for investments while promising unrealistic returns. Unauthorised Financial Services According to the FSCA, Forex Venus SA and Mr. Maluleke are not authorised to provide financial services in South Africa. Despite attempts to contact them, the FSCA could not reach them using available details. “Unrealistic returns must be viewed with great suspicion,” the FSCA stated. How They Operate Recruiting members via Facebook. Offering trading signals and investment services. Promising high, unsustainable returns. How to Protect Yourself The FSCA strongly advises…
Vuma is urging customers, particularly those in Vuma REACH areas, to stay alert as the company combats isolated incidents of fraudsters falsely posing as its representatives. Beware of Fake Representatives Recent reports indicate that individuals have been approaching residents, claiming to offer fibre installations or promotions while requesting upfront cash payments or transfers to personal accounts. Vuma does not operate this way – all legitimate billing and sign-ups are processed securely through official ISP partners. Key Safety Measures: Vuma never requests direct cash or EFT payments from customers. Always verify a representative’s ID or uniform before engaging. Confirm promotions via Vuma’s official website or trusted…
Vodacom Group has announced the appointment of Mohamed Abdallah as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Vodacom International Markets and Vodafone Egypt. This strategic move aligns with Vodacom’s Vision 2030, aimed at simplifying operations, accelerating growth, and enhancing customer experiences across its African markets. Expanding Leadership for Strategic Growth Currently serving as CEO of Vodafone Egypt, Abdallah will now take on an expanded role, overseeing operations in Egypt, the DRC, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Tanzania. This unified leadership structure is designed to strengthen operational efficiency and drive Vodacom’s strategic priorities across its International Markets portfolio. A Proven Leader with a Strong Track Record Abdallah brings over 25 years…
In a major shift for South Africa’s digital governance, government departments can now procure IT services from providers other than the struggling State Information Technology Agency (SITA). The move comes after consultation with National Treasury and aims to address chronic system failures that have paralysed services from Home Affairs to Social Development. DA Spokesperson on Communications & Digital Technologies Tsholofelo Bodlani welcomed the reform: “For years, South Africans have suffered because SITA couldn’t keep systems online. This change means departments can finally choose competent providers, ending the endless ‘system offline’ excuses that delay services.” Under the new framework: Departments can procure…
Eskom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Korea Plant Service & Engineering Co. to establish a strategic partnership focused on non-commercial research, technical consulting, and innovation. This agreement sets a framework for collaboration aimed at enhancing Eskom’s operational performance and supporting its long-term sustainability goals. Under the MoU, the two organizations will cooperate across six key areas: Strategic cooperation and information exchange on critical spare parts replenishment, including remanufacturing, reproducing, repairing, or retrofitting obsolete components. Identification and implementation of research projects supporting asset development, plant performance improvements, and asset management. Digitalization initiatives, such as artificial intelligence, IoT, and data analytics,…
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has reduced its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points, effective 30 May 2025, citing subdued inflation and global economic risks. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 5-1 in favour of the cut, with one member advocating for a deeper 50bps reduction. Governor Lesetja Kganyago stated, “Given lower inflation and persistent global uncertainties, we see scope for modest monetary easing to support growth while maintaining price stability.” Global Economic Volatility Weighs on Growth Since the last MPC meeting, global markets have faced turbulence due to shifting US trade policies, fluctuating asset prices, and weaker growth projections. While…
In a major boost for South Africa’s green industrial future, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has been appointed as the sole financial adviser for the R31.5-billion SUISO coal-to-fertiliser project in Mpumalanga. This landmark initiative reinforces global confidence in South Africa’s ability to lead a just energy transition while creating jobs, strengthening food security, and building sustainable industries. SUISO is a pioneering South African company specialising in blue ammonia production at its state-of-the-art facility in Kriel, Mpumalanga. Established in 2019 by four local entrepreneurs, SUISO focuses on sustainable energy solutions, food security and responsible resource management. By transforming residuals into resources, the company is committed to shaping a greener future…
In the bustling townships of South Africa, where unemployment hovers at 32.9% and economic exclusion remains a daily reality, a groundbreaking digital platform is rewriting the rules of engagement. SwapVend, founded by Ashmita Singh, is not just another fintech solution – it’s a radical reimagining of how the informal economy can participate in the digital age. “SwapVend acts as a digital taxi, connecting people to opportunity and creating a space where their value is seen and exchanged on their own terms,” explains Singh, whose own journey from the townships of Chatsworth and Phoenix to social entrepreneur informs every aspect of…