Author: Gugu Lourie
Gauteng unveiled last november a cutting-edge number plate system designed to bolster security and create exciting business opportunities for young entrepreneurs. The new prototype, introduced by the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG), features advanced security measures aimed at curbing crime and ensuring traceability. According to the GPG’s 2023/24 Annual Report, the system will enable law enforcement officers to track and trace number plates issued by authorized embossers. By scanning the plates, officials can verify details such as the embosser, vehicle information, and owner data, making it easier to combat illegal activities. As part of its empowerment strategy, the Gauteng Department of…
JSE-listed retail giant Woolworths revealed a stellar performance for the 26 weeks ending 29 December 2024, with online sales skyrocketing by 37.2%, driven largely by its on-demand service, Woolies Dash, which saw a 49.2% surge. Online sales now make up 6.4% of total Food sales. The retailer’s South African operations reported a 9.1% growth in turnover and concession sales, with its Food business leading the charge at 11.4% growth. Excluding Absolute Pets, acquired last year, Food sales still rose by 9.0%. Price increases averaged 6%, while trading space grew by 1.3%. Despite a 3.7% dip in its Financial Services book,…
In the latest episode of TFS Bag of Words, the TechFinancials podcast, Verina Mohanlal, Head of Financial Services Industry: Applications & Cloud at NTT DATA for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) division, takes centre stage to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of financial services. As the sector undergoes a sweeping digital transformation, Mohanlal unpacks how NTT DATA’s newly established Financial Services Industry practice is addressing industry-specific challenges and unlocking opportunities for innovation. She delves into critical topics, from the shift toward upgrading legacy systems and embracing agility, to the pivotal role of AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity in shaping…
Mpilo Technologies has announced the appointment of Motsholane Sebola as Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Deputy CEO) and Sizwe Mabanga as Chief Technology Officer (CTO). These appointments come as the company enters its next phase of growth, focusing on driving digital transformation and delivering scalable, impactful solutions for businesses across Africa. Motsholane Sebola, who has held key leadership roles at Mpilo Technologies, brings extensive experience in technology, digital transformation, and strategic partnerships. His deep understanding of the African market will be crucial as the company strengthens its position as a leader in digital innovation. “We are excited to announce Motsholane’s new…
JSE-listed retail group TFG has reported significant growth in its online sales, driven by the success of its e-commerce platform, Bash. For the first nine months of the 2025 financial year, TFG’s online sales surged by 41.4%, now accounting for 5.6% of the company’s total sales. Launched in February 2023, Bash has also achieved notable market share gains, particularly in December 2024, outperforming several pure-play retailers that experienced declines during the same period. TFG, which owns popular clothing brands such as Foschini and Markham, revealed that group online sales grew by 47.2% in the third quarter of FY2025. In TFG…
The recent seizure of R52 million in illegal coal mining proceeds by the NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit, in cooperation with Namibia, is a positive step in tackling illicit cross-border transactions. However, this isolated success is not enough to address the systemic failures that have landed South Africa on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. Adv. Glynnis Breytenbach MP, DA Spokesperson on Justice and Constitutional Development, warns that while such victories are commendable, they do not signify a turning point. “One swallow does not equate to a summer,” she said. “The reality is that South Africa remains grey-listed because…
South African insurtech pioneer Naked has raised $38 million or R700 million in its latest funding round, marking the largest insurtech investment in Africa to date. The Series B2 round, joined by global impact investment firm BlueOrchard, alongside continued support from existing investors Hollard,, Yellowwoods, International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Germany’s DEG, will accelerate Naked’s mission to transform insurance through technology-driven convenience, transparency, and cost-effectiveness. Founded in 2018 by actuaries Alex Thomson, Sumarié Greybe, and Ernest North, Naked has redefined insurance with its fully digital platform powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. The app allows customers to obtain final…
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday, granting TikTok an additional 75 days before a law banning the popular video-sharing platform takes effect. The move comes as the administration seeks to carefully evaluate the next steps in addressing national security concerns while avoiding a sudden disruption for millions of American users. In the order, President Trump instructed the Attorney General to refrain from enforcing the ban, allowing his administration time to “determine the appropriate course forward in an orderly way that protects national security while avoiding an abrupt shutdown of a communications platform used by millions of Americans.”…
Hudaco has entered into an agreement with Insulation Advanced Technologies, Isotec Balancing, Isomec, and Moholi Supplies, collectively referred to as Isotec, to acquire its trading assets and liabilities. The acquisition price will be based on a multiple of Isotec’s average annual profit after tax over the three years following the effective date, with a maximum consideration of R709 million. Hudaco will fund the acquisition using internally generated cash, existing financial facilities, and, if necessary, new financing. An initial amount between R250 million and R287 million will be payable in cash on the effective date, while three additional tranches will be…
Airtel Africa, a telecommunications and mobile money provider across 14 African countries, has teamed up with three internationally acclaimed African artistes – Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo), Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania), and Simi (Nigeria). This partnership aims to help customers maximise their digital experience by making smarter use of their data bundles. As part of this collaboration, the artistes have worked with Airtel Africa to create a special song that provides practical tips and tools for optimizing data usage. Whether for browsing, streaming, or accessing essential apps, the initiative is designed to help customers make informed decisions about their data…