Author: Staff Writer

When was the last time you didn’t have cash on hand to pay for the minibus taxi or were a few rands short on your taxi money? Never mind having to make sure you have enough cash on you. These days, cash isn’t always the best way to pay. Fortunately, Standard Bank is working on a way to help simplify minibus taxi payments for commuters and drivers. Carrying cash comes with risks. And it isn’t as convenient as we might think. From waiting in line at the ATM to having a wallet filled with coins, cash presents its fair share…

Ride-hailing platform Bolt has introduced driver scores and driver trip-sharing features in South Africa, which will improve the quality and safety of drivers on the platform. The launch features further enforce Bolt’s commitment to drivers’ well-being, giving them more control over their ride performance. The driver score feature is a transparent metric that allows drivers to understand their in-app performance better better, encourages improvements in driver habits and helps them offer the best possible rider experience. The feature is designed to increase the quality of service, thus being at the core of positive driver and rider experience. The driver trip-sharing…

Mercedes‑Benz Vans, full range provider of electric private and commercial vans, and electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian, have today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to initiate a strategic partnership. The partnership will enable the companies to cooperate on the production of electric vans. Subject to the parties entering into final binding agreements and to obtaining the relevant regulatory clearances, the companies intend to establish a new joint venture manufacturing company with the purpose of investing in, and operating, a factory in Europe to produce large electric vans for both Mercedes-Benz Vans and Rivian, starting in a few years.…

MTN SA today announced a review of its executive structure as the company gears up to deliver on its Ambition 2025 strategy to transform from a Telco to a TechCo. In line with this strategic shift, the company has appointed Ernst Fonternel into the role of Chief Consumer Officer and Divyesh Joshi into the role of Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer. Both appointments were recruited internally and are effective 1 October. The new executive structure also sees the introduction of two new roles including that of Chief Commercial Operations Officer and Chief Risk Officer. Active recruiting for these positions is…

Canada-based neobank Be Mobile has announced its official launch in South Africa to target the unbanked and underbanked in South Africa and offers ‘low to no-fee’ banking products through its app. According to Oxford Business School, an estimated 23.5% of the population is unbanked, and R12 billion or $1.04 billion, in cash is believed to be held outside of banks. The company aims to accelerate financial inclusion throughout Africa by delivering innovative digital banking solutions to serve these users. By opening a Be Mobile Africa account, customers can hold, send and receive funds in multiple currencies including USD and EUR,…

Binance, the world’s leading blockchain ecosystem and cryptocurrency infrastructure provider, has announced that it is eliminating fees on South African Rand (ZAR) deposits for a time period as it continues to establish itself as the global leader in pricing. Just recently, Binance launched its fiat gateway, enabling users to instantly deposit South African Rands (ZAR) into their Binance wallet and buy crypto. From September 7, users can enjoy zero fees when making those deposits. Binance continues to drive financial accessibility through safe, secure and affordable payments across the industry. “Binance is, at its core, an inclusive platform designed with accessibility…

In an increasingly online world, digital literacy is key to communicating, connecting, finding employment and accessing services. In South Africa, where the skills gap and the digital divide converge, developing basic literacy skills and digital literacy go hand in hand in ensuring that young people are able to access opportunities and grow their potential. This World Literacy Day, businesses delve into why digital literacy is key and how investment into tools and infrastructure can help tackle inequality. Digital literacy to tackle the skills gap:  If South Africa is to address high youth unemployment rates, it is imperative that the public…

Anthropics Technology presents Zyler – AI-powered virtual fitting technology for shoppers and retailers that allows customers to try on hundreds of outfits quickly and easily on a smartphone, desktop or in store. A selfie and a few measurements are all that is needed. Simple and fun, Zyler transforms customers’ shopping experience, creating a virtual fitting room. Customers can discover their style and fit remotely. Zyler’s patented technology uniquely produces personal results. Shoppers can use technology on their phone, desktop and in-store try on clothes from hundreds of brands or a certain brand find the best fit and style save time…

Eskom announced today that Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented from 16:00 – 22:00 tonight. The energy provider added that thereafter Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented daily at 05:00 – 22:00 until Saturday night. The loadshedding has been caused by a shortage of generation capacity owing to breakdowns and delays in returning some generating units to service, said Eskom. “We therefore urge all South Africans to continue using electricity sparingly. Eskom will promptly communicate should there be any significant changes,” said Eskom in a statement. “The breakdown of a generation unit at Arnot, Duvha, Kendal, Medupi and Tutuka power…

LG Electronics (LG) announced today it had launched its very own non-fungible token (NFT) platform, LG Art Lab. Now available in the U.S. on the company’s TVs running webOS 5.0 or later, and accessible directly from the Home Screen, the new platform enables users to buy, sell and enjoy high-quality digital artwork. Delivering outstanding picture quality and offering several, large screen sizes to choose from, LG’s state-of-the-art TVs are the perfect medium for displaying one’s NFT collection. A convenient, one-stop solution for viewing and trading NFTs at home, the platform includes the LG Art Lab Drops feature, which profiles artists…

MTN Group today announces the further deleveraging of the balance sheet with the early settlement of $300 million or R5.2 billion in eurobonds with a 2024 maturity date. This brings MTN’s dollar-denominated debt down to 35% of total holding company (Holdco) debt on a H1 2022 proforma basis. In late August, MTN invited eligible holders of the US$750 million eurobond – due to mature in November 2024 – to tender their notes for purchase by the company for cash. The offer attracted tenders of more than US$482 million. This was significantly more than the $250 million originally intended for early…

Huawei Digital Power recently launched its talent development programme in Southern Africa. The programme aims to upskill 1 000 practitioners and tertiary students within the region with technical knowledge and skills in the digital power space. Announced at Solar Show Africa 2022, the programme is part of the tech giant’s commitment to work with stakeholders to drive growth and ecosystem building of Africa’s solar sector. “Africa has immense potential when it comes to renewables and solar energy in particular,” said Mr. Xia Hesheng: President of Huawei Southern Africa Digital Power Business. “In fact, African countries have more than 40% of…

FIFA is excited to announce ‘FIFA+ Collect,’ launching on FIFA+ later this month that will provide football fans around the world with the chance to affordably own unique digital collectibles – from the greatest game moments to the most iconic FIFA World Cup™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup™ art and imagery. “Fandom is changing and football fans around the world engage with the game in new and exciting ways,” said FIFA Chief Business Officer Romy Gai. “This exciting announcement makes FIFA collectibles available to any football fan, democratising the ability to own a part of the FIFA World Cup. Just…

Draft .ZA Registry and Registrar Licensing Regulations and Procedures proposed by the .ZA Domain Name Regulatory Authority (.ZADNA) place burdensome restrictions on domain name registrars and registrants which will lead to brand owners abandoning the .ZA Internet country code in favour of one of the multitude of generic domains (such as .COM or .BUSINESS) that are easier to register. “.ZADNA’s draft regulations and procedures as they stand threaten to undo 34 years of local and international goodwill towards domains ending in .ZA. The regulations are heavy-handed and cumbersome and as such will disincentivise adoption of .ZA registrations,” said William Stucke,…

JSE-listed technology company Altron has announced the appointment of Werner Kapp as Group Chief Executive from 1 October 2022. Altron Executive Chairman Stewart van Graan said: “After a rigorous search and recruitment process by the Board, we are very pleased to appoint a well-recognised leader with extensive expertise and sector experience. “Werner will drive our vision as Altron to become a preeminent technology services provider with ambitions to strengthen our local and global presence in the digital solutions market. This is a market where the opportunity is substantial.” Kapp was at Dimension Data where over a twenty-two-year period, he held…

South Africa’s Internet Service Providers’ Association (ISPA) invites applications for its “ISPA Inspires Educational Sponsorship” for the 2023 academic year. Applications open today, Thursday, 1 September and close on Friday, 30 September 2022. Visit the ISPA Inspires website for more information and to register and submit your application. Sponsorship for the 2023 academic year will be awarded to one or more promising young candidates interested in pursuing a career in the ISP (Internet Service Provider) sector. Sponsorship is available not only for universities, TVET and technical colleges but also for any institution providing accredited ICT training or sector-specific courses where…

South African gym management software platform Octiv has reached a monumental milestone in closing their eight-figure Series A funding round from a leading venture capital firm, Knife Capital. The startup previously raised seed capital from prominent South African angel investors and this round also included an angel investment from an executive at BVNK. This investment will allow Octiv to fast-track its global expansion drive, add innovative product enhancements, and scale customer service levels to keep up with aggressive growth. Octiv started as a workout tracking app for CrossFit gyms in South Africa. Mark Fawzy, the CEO and founder of Octiv,…

MTN Group today announced the appointment of Christian Bombrun as CEO: Digital Platforms, effective 1 September 2022. Bombrun takes over from Minnie Harris, who has been acting in the role since April 2022. Harris, who has been double-hatting over the past four months, will now focus solely on her responsibilities as Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Digital Platforms. In his role, Bombrun will be responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining the long-term growth and commercial strategy for Digital in MTN. “Bombrun is a seasoned professional in the areas of entertainment, digital and technologies, and brings 25 years of experience to MTN,”…

Microsoft veteran and Africa expert Kunle Awosika assumes the position of Managing Director for the Africa Transformation Office as Wael Elkabbany steps into a new role heading up the Africa Regional Cluster. With more than 22 years’ experience working in multiple countries across the continent, Awosika has a deep understanding of, and passion for Africa. He was one of the three pioneer team members when Microsoft opened its Nigeria office, and has played various roles in the company, including Director of Enterprise Business, Country Manager: Microsoft Kenya and Director: Small and Medium Corporates, Emerging Markets. In these roles, he has…

Vodacom Financial Services has launched VodaLend Cash Advance, a product that gives customers quick and secure access to money when they need it most. VodaLend Cash Advance is the latest product to be added to the VodaLend financial services suite, which includes VodaLend Compare, Voucher Advance, and Airtime Advance. The new addition is geared towards underbanked consumers who need quick and barrier-free access to funds, whether it’s an emergency doctor’s visit or topping up pre-paid electricity just before payday. Available exclusively to Vodacom customers through the VodaPay super app, the financial services offering forms part of the telco’s purpose-led ambition…

Discussions about femicide and gender-based violence are often framed in cold statistics that are bereft of any human element, yet the survivors of this scourge are real people from all walks of life. In response to the unintended dehumanisation of gender-based violence, Avon Justine has sought to put a human face to the narrative of gender-based violence by hosting a Women’s Month high tea at the Palazzo Hotel in Johannesburg, where Josina Machel, one of the millions of survivors of this savagery, will gave a keynote address and shared her story of being brutalised by her former partner. Machel lost…

Social network platform Twitter announced that it is integrating podcasts into its platform as part of its newly designed Spaces Tab. “Starting Thursday, August 25, we’re integrating podcasts into Twitter as a part of our newly redesigned Spaces Tab,” Twitter said in a blog post. “We know that some discussions need more than 280 characters, and bringing people closer to the ideas, content, and creators they know and love is core to Twitter no matter where the conversations take place.” So how will it all work, and how can you check out Twitter’s new podcasts for yourself? Integrating podcasts into Twitter…

A mere 24 hours after Volvo Car South Africa’s second all-electric variant – the XC40 P6 Recharge – went on sale locally, the entire initial allocation was sold out. The order books for the XC40 P6 Recharge officially opened early on Tuesday 26 July and every one of the 25 units was snapped up by the following morning. The highly anticipated single-motor version of the electric XC40 was available exclusively online through Volvo’s www.myvolvo.co.za website from a starting price of R1 075 000. Greg Maruszewski, Managing Director at Volvo Car South Africa, believes the overwhelming customer response to the XC40…

Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS), an Amazon.com, Inc. company, announced that Pick n Pay had migrated its entire on-premises information technology (IT) infrastructure to AWS. Pick n Pay worked with Lemongrass Consulting—an AWS Premier Consulting Partner with Migration and SAP Consulting Competencies—to migrate its on-premises SAP environment to AWS and implement a modern SAP HANA platform. Moving to the cloud will enable Pick n Pay to streamline its operations and modernise the supply chain network for its stores, develop new digital customer experiences in omnichannel grocery, and expand into new areas of business. “Leveraging the cloud to achieve greater operational…

Pick n Pay has completed migrating its IT infrastructure to Amazon Web Services, and will now work to extend into other cloud-based applications to deliver better digital services and cost savings for customers. The move has seen Pick n Pay reduce its infrastructure cost by approximately 40% while driving up its competitiveness. This project forms part of the retailer’s Project Future to drive efficiencies across the business and reinvest savings into lower prices for customers. Pick n Pay’s core infrastructure estate has moved completely to AWS. This includes the vast majority systems used to run the company ranging from finance…