Author: Gugu Lourie

South Africa’s internet watchdog, ISPA, is calling on ICASA to crack down hard on call centres illegally using mobile numbers to bombard citizens with spam calls. ISPA is South Africa’s official internet Industry Representative Body (IRB). This shady practice violates the Numbering Plan Regulations 2016 and gives fraudsters an unfair advantage. Why Are Spammers Hijacking Mobile Numbers? With consumers ignoring calls from unknown landlines, scammers are now faking mobile numbers (especially older 082, 083, 072, and 073 ranges) to trick people into answering. “Firm action must be taken to prevent the unlawful use of mobile number ranges,” warns Dominic Cull, ISPA regulatory advisor. “As cold calls from…

Amazon has reported a strong first quarter in 2025, with net income surging to $17.1billion or R315 billion, up from $10.4 billion in Q1 2024. The e-commerce giant’s net sales climbed 9% year-over-year to $155.7 billion, fueled by growth across its North America, International, and AWS segments. Key Financial Highlights Net sales: $155.7 billion (+9% YoY) Operating income: $18.4 billion (+20% YoY) AWS revenue: $29.3 billion (+17% YoY) Free cash flow: $25.9 billion (down from $25.9 billion) Amazon CEO Andy Jassy credited innovation, such as Alexa+, Project Kuiper satellite internet and AI advancements, for driving growth. However, analysts note that Trump-era tariffs, reinstated in late 2024,…

South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is undergoing a massive digital transformation, partnering with the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to launch a cutting-edge digital identity system. The move aims to eliminate fraud, streamline services, and boost economic growth. Home Affairs’ Digital Revolution According to the DHA’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, the department is shifting from outdated paper-based processes to a fully digital, automated system. Key goals include: “Home Affairs from Home” – Citizens will apply for IDs, passports, and visas online using facial recognition and biometrics. Instant digital visa approvals – Travel authorizations will be processed in real-time, with human intervention only for flagged…

South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is pushing to break free from the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) due to persistent system failures, delays, and high costs. The move aims to boost efficiency, cybersecurity, and service delivery by partnering with private IT providers. Why Home Affairs Wants Out of SITA According to the DHA’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, the department has long struggled with SITA’s inefficiencies, including: Frequent system outages disrupting critical services like immigration and biometric systems. Delayed procurement processes, leading to irregular expenditure. Excessive costs compared to market rates, straining budgets. Poor third-party management, worsening service disruptions. These issues have hampered key…

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) proudly marks the 15th anniversary of King Shaka International Airport (KSIA) today, 1 May 2025. Since opening in May 2010, KSIA has grown into a world-class travel hub, driving tourism, trade, and economic growth in KwaZulu-Natal. Nestled near Durban’s vibrant coastline, it remains a key gateway to the region. Nkosinathi Myataza, KSIA’s Regional General Manager, reflects: “For us, travel transcends mere arrivals and departures; it’s about fostering meaningful connections and crafting unforgettable experiences. Over the past 15 years, we have proudly facilitated millions of journeys, ensuring travellers feel secure and supported at every stage. We are deeply committed to being a trusted partner in their travel experience.” KSIA’s post-pandemic…

As we commemorate Workers’ Day, a chilling reality confronts us: South Africa stands at the most dangerous crossroads in its labor history. While the world races to harness the AI revolution, we’re perilously close to being left behind – not just in technology, but in basic worker survival. The data paints an alarming picture of what’s at stake. The Global AI Divide: South Africa vs. The World In Germany, 69% of workers receive employer-funded AI training . Singapore has invested $3.4 billion in AI skills since 2020. Meanwhile, South Africa allocates a pitiful 0.3% of GDP to digital skills. This isn’t just a…

Africa’s largest payments gateway, Onafriq, joins forces with Circle, the USDC stablecoin issuer, to transform cross-border transactions, slash fees, and boost financial inclusion. Onafriq, Africa’s leading payments gateway, and Circle, the global leader in stablecoins and issuer of USDC, have announced a strategic partnership to revolutionize cross-border payments and digital financial services. This collaboration will integrate blockchain technology to enhance Onafriq’s network, positioning it at the forefront of Africa’s digital payments revolution. Dare Okoudjou, Onafriq Founder & CEO, stated:“Our  partnership with Circle reinforces Onafriq’s commitment to removing complexity from cross-border payments. By integrating USDC, we aim to simplify transactions, reduce costs, and strengthen trust. We’re not just envisioning…

In recent months, a concerning trend has emerged in South African media: professionals conducting TV interviews from their cars via Microsoft Teams or Zoom. While remote work offers flexibility, this practice damages professionalism, brand trust and audience perception. Here’s why it must stop and what to do instead. 1. It Looks Unprofessional & Sloppy First impressions matter. A car interior: -with distracting backgrounds, poor lighting and awkward camera angles -screams “unprepared.” Viewers associate quality with credibility; a haphazard setup undermines expertise. 2. Audio & Visual Quality Suffers Cars aren’t soundproof. Background noise (traffic, honking, or engine hum) disrupts clarity. Glare…

South Africa’s hospitality industry is facing a seismic shift as artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud technologies redefine everything from guest engagement to revenue management. At Micros Hospitality Tech Connect 2025, industry leaders gathered to confront the AI revolution head-on—and the message was clear: adapt now or risk irrelevance. “AI is not just another technology upgrade – it’s reinventing how we operate and how we compete,” said Reginald Sibeko, Managing Director, Micros. Micros is a hospitality tech provider, helping businesses streamline operations, enhance guest experiences, and drive profitability through AI, cloud solutions, and integrated ecosystems. With a focus on innovation, Micros empowers…

Jozi’s streets don’t just walk – they strut. Where creativity fuels the pavement and runway alike, Mzansi’s heartbeat thrives on unapologetic self-expression. And when PURA Beverage steps into the scene, it’s not just about refreshment – it’s about culture. This past weekend at SA Fashion Week, PURA didn’t just show up – it showed out. Front-row sips for designers, backstage fuel for models, and street-side vibes with Shelf Life Run Crew led by style kingpin Tokyo Black. More than a drink, PURA became the ultimate fashion accessory – clean, bold, and effortlessly cool. “For us, fashion isn’t what you wear…

Naspers has announced the unanimous approval by the boards of Naspers and Prosus to appoint Nico Marais (51) as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for both Prosus and Naspers Group, effective immediately. With over 25 years of financial management experience within the Group, including his role as interim CFO since December 2024, Marais brings deep expertise to the position. A Track Record of Strategic Leadership Marais previously served as General Manager of Finance, where he played a key role in major initiatives such as: The successful listing of Prosus Unwinding cross-holdings Executing open-ended share repurchases Leading Prosus’ debt capital market activities…

South Africa’s minibus taxis, bus rapid transit (BRT) systems, and train stations serve millions of commuters daily, making them ideal locations for smart locker hubs. Integrating parcel lockers with public transport could:  Boost accessibility for low-income earners who rely on taxis and trains  Reduce last-mile delivery costs by using existing transport routes  Drive e-commerce growth in townships and peri-urban areas Potential Integration Points 1. Taxi Ranks & Major Interchanges (e.g., Johannesburg’s Bree Street, Cape Town’s Bellville) Why? Taxis serve 70% of SA’s commuters, placing lockers here would reach the informal economy. However, safety may be a concern and partnership with the taxi associations could help and…

Africa’s digital divide remains one of the continent’s most pressing challenges, with millions still lacking reliable internet access. However, Sthembiso Dlamini, the visionary CEO and founder of Quadrupleplay, is determined to change that. His company, an innovative internet managed service provider, is bridging the connectivity gap through a mix of fibre, wireless and community-driven solutions. In an exclusive interview with TechFinancials, Dlamini shares how Quadrupleplay is expanding access, overcoming rural deployment hurdles and promoting partnerships to ensure seamless connectivity across Africa. Quadrupleplay’s Footprint Currently operating in 11 towns across South Africa, including Northam, Thabazimbi, Rustenburg, Johannesburg, Bethlehem, Kroonstad, Mbombela, Siyabuswa, Kwa Mhlanga, Cape Town,and Qwaqwa,…

The Prudential Authority (PA), responsible for enforcing compliance with the Financial Intelligence Centre Act 38 of 2001 (FIC Act), has imposed administrative sanctions on Absa Bank following a 2022 inspection. The bank failed to meet key regulatory requirements, resulting in a R10 million fine, a reprimand, and two formal cautions. Key Compliance Failures Leading to Sanctions Inadequate Customer Due Diligence (CDD) & Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) Absa failed to properly screen four foreign prominent public officials (FPPOs) and two politically exposed persons (PEPs) linked to state-owned enterprises. The bank also neglected enhanced due diligence on three domestic prominent influential persons (DPIPs) and five FPPOs. Penalty: R7 million, a reprimand, and a caution.…

The demand for seamless, secure, and contactless deliveries in South Africa has turned smart lockers into a critical logistics solution. Pargo remains the dominant player, but new entrants – including banks like Nedbank and global logistics firm DSV – are shaking up the market. Meanwhile, competitors like Aramex MyBox, The Courier Guy’s Pudo, and Pepkor’s Paxi are expanding their reach. Pargo: Still the Market Leader Why Pargo Dominates: 4,000+ pickup points (largest network in SA) E-commerce integrations (Takealot, Woolworths, Superbalist) Strong rural & township coverage 24/7 self-service smart lockers Competitors & New Entrants 1. Aramex MyBox (100+ Lockers) Urban-focused, mostly in…

Imagine waking up one day to find your words are no longer your own. Mid-sentence, your mouth hijacked by corporate algorithms, spouting ads for insurance, meal kits, or worse political propaganda. This isn’t a dystopian fantasy. It’s the premise of Netflix’s Black Mirror’s latest episode, “Common People”, where a woman named Amanda becomes a literal advertising billboard for the medtech company keeping her alive. But let’s stop pretending this is just fiction. When Subscriptions Become Extortion In the episode, Rivermind offers a brutal bargain: pay escalating fees to sustain Amanda’s digitised consciousness or be downgraded to a walking ad space. Sound familiar?…

As South Africa faces escalating water scarcity – driven by climate change, crumbling infrastructure, and systemic inequities – three powerhouse institutions are uniting to drive solutions. The Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), Ferguson Media (919FM), and the Empire Partner Foundation (EPF) are launching a high-impact campaign under the Problem-Solving Methodology, kicking off with a pivotal dialogue on 30 April 2025: “Water Scarcity, Resource Management, and Future Planning in South Africa” This isn’t just another discussion: it’s a catalyst for action. With 100+ in-person and virtual attendees and a projected digital reach of 10,000+, the session will mobilise policymakers, engineers, activists and innovators to confront…

The following note from Lip-Bu Tan was emailed to all Intel Corporation employees on April 24, 2025: Team, Today we reported our Q1 2025 results. It was a step in the right direction as we delivered revenue, gross margin and EPS (earnings per share) above our guidance, driven by Dave and Michelle’s leadership. I want to thank them both, and all of you, for the good execution. We need to build on this progress — and it won’t be easy. We are navigating an increasingly volatile and uncertain macroeconomic environment, which is reflected in our Q2 outlook. On top of that,…

Telkom Group CEO Serame Taukobong has pledged that the telecom giant will intervene to ensure South Africa avoids “digital loadshedding” if the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) fails. Speaking at the 45th Southern African Telecommunications Association (SATA) Annual Conference, Taukobong stated that Telkom, through its subsidiaries BCX, Openserve, and Telkom Consumer, is ready to step in and stabilise the country’s digital infrastructure. SITA Crisis Sparks Government Clash SITA has become a contentious issue between Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi and Portfolio Committee Chairperson Khusela Diko. Malatsi has proposed new regulations allowing government departments to bypass SITA for IT procurement, arguing…

In a passionate call to action at the 45th Southern African Telecommunications Association (SATA) Annual Conference, Telkom Group CEO Serame Taukobong challenged African leaders to seize the moment: “Africa’s time is now. “We have the networks, the fibre, the youth – what’s stopping us? We must invest beyond just profitability.” The urgent declaration came during a high-level panel discussion in Sandton, where business and tech leaders mapped out Africa’s priorities for the B20 and G20 summits that South Africa will host in 2025. The SATA conference is hosted by Telkom and Openserve. Taukobong emphasised Africa’s unique ability to innovate with limited resources. “Africa…

As Africa experiences the world’s fastest growth in international bandwidth (44% CAGR, 2019–2023), Openserve, Telkom’s infrastructure arm, is pioneering a borderless digital ecosystem across Southern Africa. Through strategic submarine cable investments, terrestrial fibre expansion, and regional partnerships, Openserve is transforming the SADC region into a globally competitive digital hub. The Connectivity Imperative: Why Africa’s Internet Boom Matters “We’re holding the internet in our pockets, yet millions remain unconnected,” said Motlalepula Ramaisa, Openserve’s representative at the 45th SATA Annual Conference. Ramaisa outlined Openserve’s mission to close this gap, not just with access, but with quality connectivity that doesn’t buffer when you need it most. Openserve’s…

Botswana Fibre Networks (BoFiNet), the state-owned wholesale telecommunications infrastructure provider, is modernizing its network to improve digital connectivity and affordability across the region. The company recently announced a P100 million (R136 million) investment to upgrade Botswana’s internet gateway, addressing the country’s surging demand for high-speed, reliable internet. BoFiNet’s Commitment to Regional Connectivity Speaking at the 45th Southern African Telecommunications Association (SATA) Annual Conference in Johannesburg, Keabetswe Segole, BoFiNet’s Commercial Executive, emphasised the company’s mission to position Botswana as a digital hub. “Your transit to the heart of Africa, this is more than just a message at our company store. It is a commitment to facilitating…

Telkom Group CEO Serame Taukobong has championed the creation of a borderless fibre network ecosystem across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, linking all 14 member states from South Africa to Angola. Speaking at the 45th Southern African Telecommunications Association (SATA) Annual Conference, Taukobong outlined Telkom’s bold vision for regional digital transformation during its tenure as SATA Chair (2025-2026). “Our mission is clear: to make SATA the most dynamic, value-adding ICT regional organisation, fostering a prosperous information society for SADC,” declared Taukobong. “This requires bold action—starting with a seamless fibre network, a Tier 4 data centre hub, and One SADC Roaming Flat Tariff.” Telkom’s 3-Pillar Plan for…

At the 45th Southern African Telecommunication Association (SATA) Annual Conference, South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, delivered a powerful call for regional collaboration, affordable connectivity, and inclusive digital transformation. Hosted by Telkom Group and Openserve, the conference brings together key stakeholders to advance ICT infrastructure and service delivery across Southern Africa. A Historic Moment for Africa Minister Malatsi highlighted the significance of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, emphasizing its role in amplifying Africa’s voice in global digital policy.  “This year marks a historic milestone—not just for South Africa, but for the entire continent. As the first African…

At Auto Shanghai, Intel unveiled its second-generation AI-enhanced software-defined vehicle (SDV) SoC—the first multi-node chiplet architecture for the automotive industry. Designed for intelligent, connected vehicles, this breakthrough SoC delivers scalable performance, cutting-edge AI, and cost efficiency for automakers. Intel also announced strategic partnerships with ModelBest and Black Sesame Technologies, accelerating innovation in AI-powered cockpits, ADAS, and energy-efficient vehicle computing. Why Intel’s Chiplet Tech is Revolutionizing Automotive The second-gen SDV SoC is a game-changer, offering: 10X AI performance boost for generative & multimodal AI 3X graphics power for immersive in-car experiences 12 camera lanes for enhanced image processing Scalable, cost-efficient design for faster time-to-market New Collaborations Driving the Future of Mobility ModelBest – Integrates on-device LLM with Intel’s SDV SoC,…