Author: Staff Writer
Customer experience has fundamentally changed. In fact, today it is in a state of constant evolution alongside the development of technologies such as generative AI, automation and personalised computing. Technology is shifting the way businesses facilitate the customer experience, be it through customer touchpoints such as built-in games, chatbots, personalised shopping experiences or otherwise. From insurance, to banking, retail and even public services, customers are becoming more expectant of digital and tech-enabled experiences that make their interactions with businesses more seamless, stress-free and pleasurable. Here are six ways businesses will leverage tech to ensure these experiences for consumers in 2024.…
Africa has emerged as a hub for fintech innovation as multiple factors converge to catalyse transformative change within the financial services sector, with South Africa serving as an entry point into the continent for numerous providers. “The absence of traditional banking infrastructure in many regions has paved the way for innovative fintech solutions to fill the gaps and meet the diverse financial needs of the population, with mobile penetration rates supporting a digital-first shift in how Africans transact and bank,” says Mia Pieterse, Partner and fintech specialist at Mazars in South Africa. Additional factors driving fintech growth on the continent…
Sage, the leader in accounting, financial, HR and payroll technology for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), celebrates its five-year partnership between Sage Foundation and GirlCode. GirlCode, a registered non-profit organisation, is committed to empowering young girls and women in the technology field by equipping them with the skills they need to become proficient software developers, readying them for careers in the technology sector. Sage Foundation will support 1,000 aspiring young South African GirlCoders this year, enabling them to acquire coding and technology skills, which include education and mentorship focused on developing their Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) skills. “It’s…
For more than a century, Rooibos has solely grown in the botanically diverse Cederberg region of the Western Cape, and nowhere else in the world. That is until now… A new action-packed survival game, called Enshrouded, has Rooibos growing in the virtual Nomad Highlands – an expanse of land located in the heart of the game that is filled with valuable resources. German-based gaming developer, Keen Games, recently launched Enshrouded via early access for Windows PC users on 24 January, which requires players to obtain resources, such as Rooibos to survive. According to Keen Games, Enshrouded, has already attracted more…
The concept of smart cities has become more prevalent over the last decade as more cities around the world adopt the Internet of Things (IoT) to increase operational efficiency, share information and improve both infrastructure and the safety and quality of life of citizens. “While South African cities may not be as prepared as their global counterparts to adopt IoT into the running of municipalities, the private sector is more than ready to embrace smart city technology into their businesses,” says Rodney Taylor, Managing Director of Guardian Eye. While many may think that smart city technology is all about connectivity,…
Two budding SA young scientists have received awards at the 2024 Taiwan International Science Fair (TISF), after successfully showcasing their research projects to judges and their peers at the National Taiwan Science Education Centre in Taipei. Johannes Jacobus (Jaco) Deysel, a Grade 11 learner at Hoërskool Jim Fouché in the Free State’s Bloemfontein region was awarded the Third Award in the Computer Science and Information Engineering category; while Lethabo Molobi, a Grade 12 learner at Zinniaville Secondary School in the North West’s Bojanala region, was awarded the Fourth Award and the Viewer’s Choice Award in the Behavioural and Social Sciences…
Starting today, Google is introducing a fresh mobile experience for Gemini and Gemini Advanced (formerly Google Bard). This entails the launch of a dedicated Gemini app on Android and integration within the Google app on iOS. Initially available exclusively in English within the US, this update will extend to South Africa in English starting next week. With Gemini on your phone, you can type, talk or add an image for all kinds of help while you’re on the go: take a picture of your flat tyre and ask for instructions, generate a custom image for your dinner party invitation or…
The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) has brought about an insight on the e-commerce and this in turn has also created a platform for criminals to target unsuspecting victims, especially those using e-hailing services and selling or buying products on social media, particularly “Facebook Marketplace”. This trend has become a point of concern for some time, especially in Loate and Rietgat policing precincts. In an effort to address this criminal trend, a task team of detectives was established in Tshwane District to deal with these cases. The team has continued to make inroads in arresting suspects in connection to this robberies…
Impact Amplifier, with the financial support of Google.org, today launched its African Online Safety Platform (AOSP). The Africa Online Safety Platform is an Africa-wide project and part of Impact Amplifier’s broader intention to address African Online Safety at a systemic level. The African internet safety ecosystem is hindered by several issues, key among them is the lack of a central repository of all the online safety research that has been conducted on a broad spectrum of issues in Africa; lack of a central repository for education material for the plethora of online safety challenges relevant for African users; the absence…
The Shoprite Group invites high-performing students keen to join the retail industry to apply for its comprehensive bursary programme. Students enrolled for degree studies in Accounting, Biological Sciences, Criminology, Information Technology, Logistics and Supply Chain, Retail Business Management, Food Sciences as well as Agricultural Sciences can apply for funding between 1 February and 30 April 2024. The comprehensive bursary covers tuition and accommodation. Employment after graduation is guaranteed, giving beneficiaries a seamless entry into the business allowing them to learn from the industry’s top talent, experts and mentors. In addition, bursary holders receive a monthly grocery allowance and enjoy access to…
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is looking to attract “modern investors” to develop its $24 trillion of untapped mineral deposits in partnership with Congolese companies, the leader of its private sector regulatory body told the mining industry at the 30th annual Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa. Miguel Kashal Katemb, Director General of the Regulatory Authority for Subcontracting in the Private Sector (ARSP), told a packed auditorium that the “DRC is open to all investors” but is looking to partner with “modern investors” who can support the country’s economic development. With a responsible approach, Miguel Katemb assured the…
Mobile networks must not be complacent about SIM swap fraud and they need to prioritise the protection of customers. This is according to Gur Geva, Founder and CEO of iiDENTIFii. “Although SABRIC has noted a slight decline in reported SIM swap fraud in its latest report, mobile service providers still need to tighten up their data security to protect against fraudsters using false identities and SIM swap scams,” says Geva. This is particularly relevant as telecommunications and banking industries become increasingly intertwined. Banks now offer mobile services, while mobile network operators provide financial services, and so there is a convergence…
The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) takes immense pride in its role as a leading public entity rendering Infrastructure Media Release Implementing Agency (IA) services, and responsible for multi-billion rand infrastructure development and maintenance projects in South Africa. Coega has 24 years of expertise in infrastructure development and maintenance, including the development of Africa’s leading 9003ha Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), in Gqeberha, in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications. To effectively execute its services across the country, Coega has offices in the provinces of the Eastern Cape (Gqeberha, East London…
Maltento is transforming South Africa’s recycling landscape by breeding Black Soldier Flies to convert agro-processing waste, including spent grains from the beer industry, into high-performance, nutrient-dense proteins, and oils for pet and aquaculture feed. Based in Cape Town, the Maltento team offers a true testament to the quality of South Africa’s highly skilled scientists and engineers, leading sustainability practices, and world-renowned innovation in the insect biotechnology space. After winning the Startup Club ZA award in November last year, and having recently secured a substantial R12 million grant from the German Development Bank, Maltento is carving its path as a key…
The recent assessment of working conditions within the platform economy, conducted by Oxford University’s Fairwork, unveils significant safety concerns and instances of discrimination encountered by South African platform workers in their daily routines. This unsettling reality is compounded by mounting uncertainty regarding remuneration, as take-home earnings have markedly dwindled. Despite the absence of official recognition from unions and associations, workers are increasingly mobilizing in response to these challenges. The study represents the latest phase of Fairwork’s ongoing examination of working conditions across digital labour platforms in South Africa, scrutinising the ride-hailing, food delivery, home maintenance, and domestic services sectors. Five…
Over a bustling weekend of law enforcement activities, Cape Town city officials made significant confiscations, retrieving backup batteries, stolen clothing, a cache of Schedule 2 medication, and mandrax with a street value exceeding R120,000. These accomplishments contributed to the week’s enforcement endeavors, resulting in 313 arrests and the issuance of 53,614 fines. In an operation conducted by officers attached to the Law Enforcement Metal Theft Unit in Elsies River just before 09:00 on Saturday, February 3rd, a heavily loaded car drew attention. Upon inspection, officers discovered two cellphone tower backup batteries in the vehicle. Subsequently, a search led to the…
Pick n Pay has announced the recall of three peanut butter brands – No Name Smooth Peanut Butter, Eden Smooth Peanut Butter, and Eden Crunch Peanut Butter. Pick n Pay said on Saturday that all affected products had been promptly removed from store shelves. “The recall is specifically for products with an expiry date falling between the present and July 2025,” Pick n Pay said. “Customers are encouraged to return any such products to Pick n Pay for a full refund. “Additionally, the recall extends to products irrespective of their expiry date or whether they have been opened, reflecting the…
South African thermal coal producer and exporter Thungela Resources, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Education, unveils the Thungela Education Initiative. This programme is dedicated to enhancing access to high-quality education for students in the foundational and intermediate phases, spanning from grades R to 4, across 45 “no-fee” schools. Additionally, it aims to offer support to educators. With a dynamic five-year plan and an investment totaling R160 million, the initiative will roll out in two of Mpumalanga’s district municipalities where Thungela operations are situated. “We are proud to launch an initiative that seeks to deliver solutions to one of…
A fraudulent contractor deceived an elderly individual into providing over R500,000, purportedly for his “brother’s wedding,” his “daughter’s operation,” and his “tax debt.” The Hawks’ Gqeberha serious commercial crime investigation unit, with support from their counterparts in Bellville, Cape Town, has apprehended a second suspect linked to the scheme. The Gqeberha based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation of the Hawks with the assistance of Bellville Serious Commercial Crime Investigation of the Hawks arrested Thembeka Bendon (47) for allegations of fraud. Bendon is the second accused to be arrested after the arrest of Thina Mpuhlu (42) who was arrested on 26 October…
Thungela, a pure-play producer and exporter of high-quality thermal coal, has been honoured with the Top Employer Certification, securing an impressive score of 87.86%. This prestigious certification reflects Thungela’s commitment to excellence in various key areas of organisational development. Showcasing excellence, Thungela achieved an impeccable 100% score in business strategy, employer branding, talent acquisition, ethics, and integrity. This accomplishment not only reinforces Thungela’s status as a leader but highlights its commitment to maintaining high standards for vital operational standards. These achievements are indicative of Thungela’s persistent efforts to promote transparency, uphold integrity, and pursue a strategic vision that aligns with…
Vumacam and NAVIC are joining forces in an alliance aimed at extending the reach and influence of the SafeCity initiative throughout South Africa. Up until now, the initiative has solely relied on Vumacam technology and cameras. This collaboration, supported by infrastructure and technology, strengthens SafeCity’s fundamental principles of community, collective accountability, and the ability to foster a safer environment for all communities, irrespective of socio-economic backgrounds. The alliance will support the SafeCity initiative and is set to immediately enhance coordinated efforts to tackle crime in South Africa. Vumacam and NAVIC will combine their technology and extensive networks to combat crime…
The Pretoria High Court on Tuesday dismissed an application by Kwaito music guru Arthur Mafokate to have his property released from a preservation order. On 21 December 2022, the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) obtained an order to preserve Property 85 Carslwald Road, Midrand belonging to Mafokate, the sole member of 999 Music. FILE PHOTO: The R7.5 million guest house known as La Villa Rosa in Midrand Allegations are that Mofokate used his nonprofit organisation (NPO), the SA Arts and Development Association (SAADA), to siphon the funds, which he used to buy property. The allegations…
Huawei, the leading global vendor of digital power products and solutions, underlined the importance of energy storage and safety for residential Solar PV systems during the launch of its Fusionsolar Residential Luna 2.0 Smart PV solution into the South African market. The launch, which took place in Sandton, highlighted the growing importance of residential solar PV in addressing South Africa’s energy needs, while also showcasing its superior safety measures and their importance. Energy storage systems in particular have become increasingly vital in addressing the challenges of an unstable power grid and frequent power outages. The country faces issues of electricity…
Each year, sales of fully electric vehicles (EVs) are more than doubling, with the used car market seeing a 133% increase in EV sales in 2023 when compared to 2022 sales¹. However, South African consumers are still anxious about range, expressing specific concerns about the distance that EVs can travel on a single charge on the open road. Now in its third year, AutoTrader’s annual #ElectricCarChallenge is designed to address these concerns and set a national benchmark for electric mobility in South Africa. The intention of the #ElectricCarChallenge is to establish the distance that EVs can achieve on a single…
Cell C today announced it has appointed Darius Badenhorst to the role of Chief Growth Officer, effective February 2024. His exceptional track record and 14 years’ experience in Financial Services and Telecommunications bring a new level of ability to propel Cell C’s growth and innovation strategies. As Chief Growth Officer, Badenhorst will be responsible for overseeing crucial areas of business development, customer retention, and customer relationship management throughout the value chain and lifecycle to further accelerate growth. His extensive background in quantitative analysis and financial engineering will be instrumental in navigating the evolving telecommunications landscape . Jorge Mendes, CEO of…