Author: Gugu Lourie

The telecommunications industry is undergoing a radical shift, pushed by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and automation. The recent SATNAC 2024 panel discussion, “Redefining Telecommunications: Telcos of the Future,” hosted by Sello Mmakau, Group Chief Digital Officer of Telkom SA, brought together global experts to explore how these innovations are reshaping the telco landscape. The panellists, including Prof. Thomas Magedanz from Technische Universität Berlin, Dr. Adrian Tiplady of the National Research Foundation (NRF), Naeem Seedat from Telkom SA, and Manav Daby, Specialist in Data & AI at Google, shared their insights on the role of AI…

At SATNAC 2024, Dr. Noxolo Kubheka-Dlamini, Telkom’s Chief Digital & Information Officer for Consumer and Small Business, delivered a forward-looking keynote address titled “AI-Driven Hyper-Personalised Future.” This annual event, hosted by Telkom, took place from October 6-9 in the heart of Kruger National Park, Skukuza Rest Camp. Dr. Kubheka-Dlamini’s thought-provoking speech centred around the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping hyper-personalised customer experiences, urging industry stakeholders to embrace change or risk becoming irrelevant. Dr. Kubheka-Dlamini began by acknowledging the exponential pace of AI’s development. “If you look at the evolution of AI,” she remarked, “it has moved from basic…

A recent raid by the Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA) has put the future of 200 StarSat employees in jeopardy, while also impacting over 1,000 dealers and sales agents. The regulatory body’s search and seizure operation has disrupted Starsat’s business, raising concerns about widespread unemployment and financial instability across the company’s network. “The latest situation orchestrated by ICASA’s vehement rejection of constructive engagement with StarSat TV will undoubtedly affect the livelihoods of more than 200 workers and disrupt the broader network of over 1000 dealers and sales agents who rely on its operations for their subsistence and ongoing earnings…

Kagiso Modise, Executive: Technology Lifecycle Management & NMS Operations at Openserve brought the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into sharp focus. He was speaking at the at the Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (SATNAC) at Skukuza Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park. Modise emphasised how AI can be harnessed to drive sustainability efforts globally while navigating the delicate balance between resource use and environmental responsibility. His speech emphasised the critical role technology must play in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges, from climate change to social inequality. The butterfly effect:…

Minister of Communications & Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi highlighted South Africa’s leadership in using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive economic growth and social change. Malatsi delivered a speech at the 27th Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (SATNAC) at Kruger National Park. Recognising SATNAC as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration within the ICT sector, Malatsi expressed deep appreciation for the event’s legacy of innovation. “SATNAC has become a beacon of innovation and collaboration in our ICT sector, a platform that has grown over the years into a vital space for research, discussion, and partnership between industry, government,…

Prepare to be dazzled as Sandton welcomes its newest and most exciting dining destination: Vaagh Sandton. Launching on the 18th of October 2024, Vaagh is more than just a restaurant; it’s a fusion of culinary mastery and world-class live entertainment that promises to redefine your night out. Located in the chic Parkmore district, Vaagh offers an extraordinary experience where every evening feels like a grand celebration. The restaurant’s meticulously curated menu by renowned Chef Nas is a symphony of flavours, designed to delight even the most discerning palates. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere where…

The Empire Partner Foundation (EPF), under the leadership of its founder, Nathan Mariemuthu, stands as a beacon of hope for young South Africans, empowering them to unlock their potential and pursue greatness. Speaking at EPF Tech Awards held in Montecassino this weekend, Mariemuthu emphasised the vital role EPF plays as a partner foundation in nurturing young innovators and giving them the confidence to become leaders in their fields. “I have a birthday every day,” Mariemuthu remarked in his speech. “I don’t look forward to one specific day because every single day of my life, I get to meet incredible young…

The Empire Partner Foundation (EPF) continues to make significant strides in creating an environment where innovation thrives, and visionaries are empowered to shape Africa’s future. With a powerful presence at the 2024 EPF Tech Awards, Joanna Govender, CEO of EPF Tech Fund and EPF, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to supporting young African innovators and expanding its footprint across southern Africa. In her opening remarks, Govender drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela’s focus on youth empowerment and education, emphasising that “by investing in our youth, we invest in the future of Africa.” This vision aligns with EPF’s broader mission to create opportunities…

Justin Hughes, HR Executive for HR Operations at Openserve, shares his thoughts on why SATNAC is important. In the latest episode of TFS Bag of Words, Justin Hughes talks about how Openserve’s involvement in SATNAC helps improve Africa’s telecommunications infrastructure. SATNAC 2024, hosted by Telkom, will be held from 6–9 October at the Skukuza Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park. This year’s theme is “The AI-Driven Hyperconnected Future: Co-creating Shared Value,” focusing on how AI is changing the industry. In this episode, Hughes also discusses Openserve’s commitment to supporting research and development in the ICT sector through SATNAC. You…

For over 27 years, Telkom’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) programme has been a beacon of progress in South Africa’s ICT industry, playing a critical role in developing the nation’s talent pool and addressing crucial technological gaps. Established in 1997, the CoE initiative is designed to empower students by fostering research, innovation, and skills development, particularly in the fields of Computer Science and Engineering (CS&E). By enabling access to advanced education and research opportunities, Telkom’s CoE programme has significantly contributed to the creation of a future-fit, skilled workforce that is driving South Africa’s digital transformation. A visionary programme rooted in collaboration…