Author: Gugu Lourie

Telkom has successfully implemented a major upgrade to its Business Support Systems (BSS), reinforcing its commitment to delivering frictionless digital experiences for customers. This milestone marks a key step in Telkom’s ongoing transformation, enhancing efficiency, service delivery and customer relationship management. BSS handle customer services, billing and products efficiently. They make operations smoother, improve customer satisfaction, and help companies adapt to market needs, keeping users happy and loyal. Telkom Consumer embarked on a BSS upgrade project to address operational risks. The upgrade will ensure a secure BSS solution with increased stability and fewer outages. These enhancements are designed to boost operational…

South Africa’s premium car market is undergoing a historic shift as Audi, BMW, and Volvo scale back dealerships – raising the question: Will they pivot to online sales? The move mirrors a worldwide push toward direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales. In the US, Volkswagen’s Scout Motors will bypass dealers entirely when its electric vehicles (EVs) launch in 2027, sparking backlash from traditional retailers like Marc White. According to a Bloomberg report, second-generation car dealer White faced rejection when he proposed building a $10 million showroom in South Carolina, USA, to sell Volkswagen’s new EV line. White, who hoped to be among the first retailers for the vehicles, discovered Volkswagen…

The State Information Technology Agency (SITA) has recently published its *Strategic Plan 2025-2030*, titled “Gearing towards a digital services agency to enable a digital government.” The document outlines an ambitious vision for transforming South Africa’s public sector through digital innovation. However, critical questions remain: How will SITA execute this plan when its Roadmap for the Digital Transformation of Government is still in draft form and has not yet been finalised? More importantly, with funding unconfirmed and priority services still being determined, can SITA realistically deliver on its promises? This article examines SITA’s strategic initiatives, challenges, and the feasibility of its digital transformation agenda. SITA’s…

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…