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MOPPETS CEO Roberta Edu Declares Spar Market the Undisputed Champion of Nigerian Retail—Here’s Why!

MOPPETS CEO Roberta Edu Declares Spar Market the Undisputed Champion of Nigerian Retail—Here’s Why!

 

Roberta Edu, the visionary CEO of MOPPETS, Nigeria’s pioneering indigenous baby formula brand, has just dropped a bombshell revelation: Spar Market isn’t just another supermarket—it’s the Harvard of retail operations in Nigeria. And if you’re in the business of selling products, you’d better take notes.

In an electrifying endorsement that’s sending shockwaves through the retail sector, Edu didn’t just praise Spar—she crowned them the undisputed kings of automation, efficiency, and supplier satisfaction. Forget Shoprite, forget the rest—when it comes to seamless operations, Spar is playing chess while others struggle with checkers.

“Certified by Spar or Bust!” – Why Every Supermarket Should Bow to Spar’s Genius

Edu’s message was clear: If you’re launching a supermarket chain and want a winning team, poach Spar’s talent. In fact, she boldly declared that every Nigerian retailer—from the biggest giants to the smallest corner stores—should stand in a straight line and beg Spar for lessons.

“Spar should issue ‘Certified Operations by Spar’ diplomas because nobody does it like them,” she proclaimed. And after hearing her breakdown, it’s impossible to disagree.

The Spar Advantage: A Masterclass in Retail Domination

What makes Spar so unstoppable? Let’s dive in:

  1. FULL AUTOMATION OR NOTHING
    While other supermarkets drown in paperwork, Spar runs like a well-oiled AI-powered machine. From supplier onboarding to inventory tracking, every process is digitized. No delays, no excuses—just pure efficiency.
  2. THE LPO THAT THINKS FOR ITSELF
    Spar’s Local Purchase Order (LPO) system is pure genius. Stock running low? Boom—an instant order hits your inbox. But here’s the kicker: Ignore it for 14 days, and it self-destructs. Suppliers scramble to justify why they deserve a second chance, meaning Spar never waits around for slackers.

    Even crazier? The system auto-adjusts orders based on sales. Sell out fast? Next shipment increases. Slow month? Orders shrink. No guesswork, no waste—just ruthless, data-driven precision.

  3. NO EXPIRED STOCK ALLOWED
    While other stores let products rot on shelves, Spar fights for your sales. Slow-moving items trigger real-time alerts, complete with sales analytics and shelf-optimization tips. Sometimes, they’ll even move your product to prime shelf space to save the day.
  4. PAYMENTS SO FAST IT’LL MAKE YOUR HEAD SPIN
    Need your money two hours after delivery? Spar can make it happen. Their payment system is flexible, transparent, and lightning-fast—because they know cash flow is king.

“Are They Even Operating in Nigeria?” – The Spar Professionalism Shock

Edu saved her most jaw-dropping observation for last: Spar’s staff operate at a level of professionalism so high, it feels surreal.

“I sometimes wonder if they’re really in Nigeria,” she admitted. “No other chain comes remotely close to their structure.”

Final Verdict: Spar Isn’t Just Leading—They’re Redefining the Game

Roberta Edu’s verdict? If you’re a supplier, Spar should be your #1 target. If you’re a competitor, study them or get left behind. And if you’re a shopper? Well, now you know why Spar feels different.

One thing’s certain: The future of Nigerian retail has a name—and it’s SPAR.

🔥 HOT TAKE 🔥
Think another supermarket can dethrone Spar? Prove it. Until then, the crown stays put.

#SparDominance #RetailRevolution #MOPPETSUnfiltered

Reported by Anthony Emeka Nwosu 
© Tech and Biz News NG– Cutting Through the Noise

Discover Drinks.ng: Anambra’s Hidden Gem for Luxury and Vibes

Discover Drinks.ng: Anambra’s Hidden Gem for Luxury and Vibes

 

There’s a place in Onitsha that changes everything you thought you knew about Anambra’s social scene. The moment you step into Drinks.ng, you feel it – that electric energy of a space designed for those who appreciate the finer things. The sleek modern interior, the expertly crafted cocktails, the impressive selection of premium spirits displayed like works of art – this isn’t just a bar, it’s a destination.

What makes Drinks.ng special isn’t just what’s in your glass (though trust me, their mixologists are artists). It’s the atmosphere – the kind of place where business deals get sealed with a clink of crystal tumblers, where friends celebrate milestones with champagne showers, and where every visit feels like an occasion. The attention to detail here would impress even the most discerning connoisseur, from the temperature-controlled wine storage to the knowledgeable staff who can recommend the perfect pairing for your mood.

But here’s what really excites me – Drinks.ng represents the new Anambra spirit. It’s proof that our entrepreneurs aren’t just keeping up with global trends, they’re setting them. This is homegrown excellence, created by Anambra talent for Anambra’s vibrant community of professionals, creatives, and business leaders.

The magic doesn’t stop at drinks. Just a short distance away, Manestman Mall and Hospital is redefining what a modern urban experience looks like in our state. Imagine unwinding with friends at a world-class lounge, then stepping into a state-of-the-art medical facility – all within the same premium complex. This is the Anambra we’re building – where luxury meets practicality, where ambition meets execution.

What I love most is how these developments showcase our unique Anambra identity. We’re not copying anyone – we’re creating spaces that reflect our values of enterprise, excellence, and community. Drinks.ng isn’t trying to be anything but the best version of itself, just like Anambra itself.

So here’s my challenge to you: Next weekend, skip the usual spots and experience Anambra’s rising luxury scene for yourself. Start with sunset cocktails at Drinks.ng, then explore what else our state’s innovators are creating. I promise you’ll see Onitsha – and Anambra – with new eyes.

Have you visited Drinks.ng yet? What’s your favorite Anambra hidden gem? Share your experiences below!

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

#AnambraRising #DrinksNGExperience #DiscoverAnambra

 

Roberta Edu’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, persistence, and emotional intelligence in business

Roberta Edu’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, persistence, and emotional intelligence in business

Roberta Edu’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, persistence, and emotional intelligence in business. Here are the key takeaways from her journey with MOPPETS BABY FOOD and Market Square:

1. Relentless Persistence Pays Off

  • She pursued Market Square for 4 years, facing rejections, bureaucratic delays, and even tragedy (the death of the initial buying director).
  • Instead of giving up after setbacks, she kept adapting her approach.

2. Turning Rejections into Motivation

  • When told she needed to first get into Spar, Everyday Supermarket, and Shoprite, she didn’t complain—she made it happen within a year.
  • Each “no” became a stepping stone rather than a roadblock.

3. Emotional Resilience in the Face of Tragedy

  • The sudden death of the buying director could have ended her chances, but she regrouped and continued.
  • She channeled frustration (like the staff member’s delays) into strategic patience rather than burning bridges.

4. The Power of Relationships & Emotional Intelligence

  • Despite her anger at the delaying staff member, she swallowed her pride, rebuilt the relationship, and ultimately relied on his recommendation.
  • Had she escalated or cut ties, the final approval might never have happened.

5. Strategic Hustle & Creativity

  • When blocked by the new director, she researched him thoroughly, used LinkedIn Premium, and crafted a data-driven pitch that impressed him in minutes.
  • She leveraged AI tools to make her proposal compelling.

6. Success is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

  • 6 registration attempts, multiple policy changes, and years of follow-ups—yet she kept going.
  • Her story proves that overnight success is a myth; real wins are earned through grit.

7. Humility & Humor in Tough Times

  • Even in frustration, she joked about reporting to “MC Oluomo in Teni’s voice,” showing the importance of laughter in tough situations.
  • She acknowledged her low moments but never let them define the outcome.

Final Lesson:

“The path is difficult, but those who want to succeed must persevere and try over and over again.”

Roberta’s journey is a masterclass in entrepreneurial tenacity. Whether you’re building a business, chasing a career goal, or pushing through personal challenges, her story reminds us:

  • Fall down 7 times, stand up 8.
  • Burn no bridges—you might need them later.
  • When one door closes, find a window (or make one).

Walk with her—and with that same unstoppable energy in your own journey. 🚀

#Resilience #Entrepreneurship #NeverGiveUp

UNIZIK Establishes Center for Traditional Medicine, Plans Degree Programs in Indigenous Healing Practices

UNIZIK Establishes Center for Traditional Medicine, Plans Degree Programs in Indigenous Healing Practices

 

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) has announced the creation of a Center for Traditional Medicine aimed at preserving and institutionalizing Igbo Indigenous healing practices, with plans to introduce academic degree programs in the field.

The disclosure was made during the Igu Aro UNIZIK 2025 festival by Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Bonachristus Umeogu, Director of the Igbo Village and Institute for African Heritage Studies (IVIAHS). The event, organized in collaboration with the Anambra State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, drew a diverse audience, including government officials, university administrators, students, traditional rulers, cultural troupes, and representatives from the Chinese community at UNIZIK, alongside business and industry leaders.

In his address, Fr. Umeogu highlighted IVIAHS’s mission to advance Igbo knowledge systems through academic research and structured programs. He revealed that the newly established Center for Traditional Medicine seeks to integrate indigenous healing practices into formal education, with plans to roll out degree programs in the discipline.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK, Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu, lauded Fr. Umeogu and his team for their exceptional work in organizing cultural festivals such as Iri-Ji UNIZIK, Ohazurume Igbo Festival, and Igu Aro UNIZIK. He commended the directorate’s dedication to preserving and promoting Igbo heritage.

This groundbreaking initiative positions UNIZIK as a pioneer in the academic recognition of traditional medicine, fostering cultural preservation while advancing scholarly research in indigenous knowledge systems.

— Admin Nibo

Peter Obi Lands in London for Commonwealth Trade Summit, Commends Air Peace and Champions SME Growth as Key to Nigeria’s Economic Future

Peter Obi Lands in London for Commonwealth Trade Summit, Commends Air Peace and Champions SME Growth as Key to Nigeria’s Economic Future

Renowned Nigerian statesman and presidential hopeful, Mr. Peter Obi, touched down at London Gatwick Airport earlier today, arriving aboard an Air Peace flight ahead of his participation at the 2025 Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) Trade and Investment Summit. The event, which will take place at the prestigious Mansion House in London on April 7 and 8, is expected to attract leading global business leaders, policymakers, and investors from across the Commonwealth.

Obi, a consistent advocate of homegrown solutions to Africa’s economic challenges, proudly acknowledged that this marked his third trip to the United Kingdom aboard Air Peace Airline — Nigeria’s foremost indigenous carrier. The airline, he noted, continues to demonstrate the resilience and capacity of Nigerian enterprises to compete and excel on international platforms.

“Aboard the flight were other notable Nigerians, including Apostle Johnson Suleman. Each time I fly Air Peace, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and hope. This airline is a testament to what is possible when Nigerian businesses are given the environment to thrive. It represents our entrepreneurial spirit and capacity to scale beyond borders,” Obi remarked.

Obi’s presence at the CWEIC Summit is not merely symbolic. As a founding member of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council’s Governing Board — a role he has held since the council’s inception in 1997 — he is expected to deliver a keynote address, lending his voice to critical discussions on trade, investment, and sustainable development across member nations.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Obi emphasized that meaningful development in Nigeria, and indeed across Africa, will only be achieved through deliberate investment in sectors that directly impact human capital and economic empowerment.

“For Nigeria to be on the path of sustainable growth and inclusive development, we must invest heavily in critical sectors — education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. These areas directly influence productivity and long-term stability. In particular, we must focus on strengthening small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), which remain the lifeblood of any economy,” Obi stated.

He argued that SMEs serve as the engine room for innovation, job creation, and equitable wealth distribution, stressing that targeted policies and access to capital can unlock their full potential and reposition Nigeria as a leading economy in Africa and beyond.

Obi’s participation at the summit is also expected to strengthen Nigeria’s ties with key international stakeholders, including investors seeking opportunities within Africa’s largest economy. As global attention turns to sustainable partnerships and enterprise-led development within the Commonwealth, Obi is poised to make a strong case for investing in Nigeria’s economic transformation through a people-focused and transparent governance framework.

Concluding his remarks, Obi reiterated his belief in a brighter future for Nigeria, built on discipline, vision, and inclusive development:
“We have all it takes to reposition Nigeria as a beacon of hope and productivity. The key lies in our commitment to invest in our people, empower our businesses, and build institutions that serve. Indeed, a new Nigeria is POssible.”

The 2025 CWEIC Trade and Investment Summit is expected to set the tone for renewed Commonwealth cooperation in areas such as technology, energy transition, finance, infrastructure, and inclusive growth — all areas where Obi has consistently urged strategic focus and international collaboration.

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

NASENI and Caverton Helicopters Launch Training of Female staff on UAV

NASENI and Caverton Helicopters Launch Training of Female staff on UAV

 

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and Caverton Helicopters have commenced the second batch of training for 10 selected female engineers and scientists from NASENI system-wide in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) technology.

 

The six-week training program, which kicked off on Monday 7th of April 2025 at Caverton’s training school in Ikeja, Lagos, is part of the NASENI-Caverton, (NASCAV) ongoing partnership agreement to strengthen the aviation mandate of NASENI.

 

The training is a key component of the SHEFLY project, a pioneering initiative by the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, aimed at empowering rural women to leverage drone technology for precision farming and increased agricultural yields, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

In his remarks, Dr. Abayomi Okesola, the team Lead NASCAV project, who spoke on behalf of NASENI management, welcomed the trainees to the epoch training exercise with CAVERTON, citing them as worthy partners due to their impressive track record in aviation and marine spaces.

 

He said the SHEFLY project is very dear to the heart of the EVC/CEO NASENI who perceived the exercise as a valuable initiative to promote women in STEM fields and bridge the existing gender gap. Dr Abayomi said the selection of female trainees from the various institutes across different zones was a deliberate effort to enable them manage clusters that will be set up to train rural women in drone technology for enhanced agricultural activities nationwide.Shell Extends Helicopter Contract with Caverton - Caverton Offshore Support Group

 

In his welcome address, the MD CAVERTON Helicopters Captain Bello Ibrahim, who was represented by the Director Corporate Services Mr. Ayodele Omueti noted that CAVERTON is a conglomerate with diverse interests in aviation, marine and training, emphasizing that training is essential for ensuring safety and accountability.

 

He stated that UAVs are among the modern aircraft in the aviation sector, stressing that “the training is timely to ensure we remain current with global technological advancements”. He therefore urged the trainees to stay focused to acquire the knowledge they have come for.

 

On his part, the Project Coordinator CAVERTON Drones, Mr. Ese Obukonise stated that the training adheres to aerodynamic principles and is certified by a UK license Authority, ensuring compliance with international standards and best practices. He said this would enable the trainees maximize their potentials and contribute effectively to NASENI’s initiatives.

 

He noted that the demand for UAV pilots in the world is exceptionally high and the SHEFLY project would not only promote gender inclusiveness in a male dominated field but also empower women to capitalize on emerging opportunities in UAV technology. Upon completion, the female trainees will in turn, train rural women farmers to utilize drone technology to improve and boost farm yields.

 

The SHEFLY project, which will be launched soon at the Aeronautic and Air Vehicle Development Institute, AAVDI, of NASENI in Kaduna, is designed to enhance food security, improve crop yields, and increase the income of rural women farmers. The project’s objectives include training and deploying female drone pilots to support precision farming, enhancing agricultural productivity and food security, empowering rural women to adopt innovative technologies, and fostering sustainable agriculture practices.

 

NCC Launches Groundbreaking Protection for Nigerians’ Unused Airtime, Introduces 12-Month Recovery Window

NCC Launches Groundbreaking Protection for Nigerians’ Unused Airtime, Introduces 12-Month Recovery Window

 

In a historic move for Nigeria’s telecom sector, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today announced sweeping reforms that will safeguard millions of naira in unused airtime from disappearing when phone lines are deactivated. The bold new protections, unveiled during a national stakeholder forum, represent the most significant consumer rights advancement in Nigeria’s digital age.

Speaking at the virtual gathering, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, NCC’s Head of Legal & Regulatory Services, painted a vivid picture of the human impact behind the policy shift. “We’re talking about market women who save for weeks to buy airtime, students rationing credit for online classes, and entrepreneurs depending on every naira for their business communications,” she said. “These aren’t just numbers on a balance sheet—they’re the lifeblood of Nigeria’s digital economy.”

The centerpiece of the new framework gives subscribers an unprecedented 12-month window to reclaim unused airtime after their line is deactivated, a dramatic departure from current industry practice where balances vanish immediately. Telecom operators will now be required to preserve these funds and offer affected customers options to convert them into usable services like call minutes, data bundles, or other value-added offerings.

Mrs. Whyte emphasized that the reforms address a longstanding injustice in the sector, where an estimated ₦3 billion in subscriber airtime goes unclaimed annually. “This is about restoring fairness and transparency,” she told attendees. “When Nigerians pay for services, they deserve to know their money is protected—even if life circumstances temporarily take them offline.”

“Today, Nigeria sends a clear message that in our digital economy, every naira counts and every subscriber matters.” The Commission continues to welcome public input through its website until May 15, ensuring final guidelines reflect the needs of all stakeholders.

The policy introduces rigorous new requirements for telecom providers, including mandatory pre-deactivation notifications to warn subscribers about impending service termination and clear instructions for reclaiming balances. Operators will also face stringent auditing requirements, compelling them to maintain detailed records of all unclaimed balances and submit regular reports to the NCC.

Consumer advocates at the forum welcomed the changes, sharing emotional testimonies about the real-world impact. Nurse Adeola K. described losing ₦8,500 during a hectic hospital rotation, while tech entrepreneur Emeka O. noted the policy finally aligns telecom practices with the financial accountability expected in other sectors.Unused different smart phones | Premium AI-generated PSD

Implementation will move swiftly, with operators given just 90 days from the policy’s final adoption to establish compliant systems. The NCC plans to support the transition with public awareness campaigns, including multilingual FAQs and social media guides to help Nigerians navigate the new protections.

As the forum concluded, Mrs. Whyte issued a powerful reminder of the policy’s broader significance: “Today, Nigeria sends a clear message that in our digital economy, every naira counts and every subscriber matters.” The Commission continues to welcome public input through its website until May 15, ensuring final guidelines reflect the needs of all stakeholders.

For millions of Nigerian telecom users, the reforms promise something simple yet revolutionary—the peace of mind that their hard-earned airtime will no longer vanish without recourse. As the policy takes effect in coming months, subscribers are encouraged to watch for notifications from their providers and visit NCC platforms for guidance on claiming past balances.

This landmark decision positions Nigeria as a regional leader in consumer-focused telecom regulation, proving that robust protections can coexist with a thriving digital marketplace. The NCC’s bold stance sets a new standard for putting people first in Africa’s largest telecom sector.

NCC Introduces Progressive Guidelines to Protect Subscribers’ Unused Airtime

NCC Introduces Progressive Guidelines to Protect Subscribers’ Unused Airtime

 

In a bold move to safeguard telecom consumers, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a draft regulatory framework ensuring that subscribers can reclaim unused airtime on deactivated lines—a first-of-its-kind policy in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

Empowering Subscribers

The proposed guidelines prioritize consumer rights by:

  1. Guaranteeing 12-Month Recovery Window: Subscribers can reclaim unutilized airtime within one year of line deactivation, preventing unnecessary losses.
  2. Banning Monetization, Promoting Service Benefits: While cash refunds remain restricted, users will have flexible service options (data, calls, SMS) to utilize their balances.
  3. Transparent Audits: Operators must conduct detailed audits of inactive lines and submit reports to the NCC, ensuring accountability.
  4. Mandatory Consumer Awareness: Telecom companies must notify users via SMS, websites, and multilingual campaigns about their rights under the new policy.

NCC’s Pro-Consumer Stance

The Commission’s draft addresses longstanding gaps in the sector, where inactive subscribers often lose unused airtime without recourse. By adopting global best practices while tailoring them to Nigeria’s context, the NCC demonstrates its commitment to:

  • Fairness: Unlike some countries where balances are forfeited immediately, Nigeria’s 12-month window offers a reasonable claim period.
  • Innovation: The service-option model ensures subscribers derive value even without cash refunds.
  • Regulatory Leadership: The NCC’s proactive engagement with operators ensures policies are practical yet consumer-centric.

Responsive to Operator Concerns

While telecom providers like Airtel, Smile, and MTN raised implementation concerns, the NCC has shown flexibility by:

  • Considering Extended Timelines: Evaluating requests for a 180-day compliance period instead of 90 days.
  • Clarifying Reporting Requirements: Streamlining audit processes to reduce operator burdens while maintaining transparency.
  • Setting Minimum Thresholds: Reviewing proposals to exclude negligible balances (e.g., ₦1) from retention mandates.

A Win for Nigeria’s Digital Economy

This policy reinforces the NCC’s role as a forward-thinking regulator, aligning with the federal government’s push for a more inclusive digital economy. By protecting subscribers’ airtime investments, the Commission boosts confidence in telecom services, fostering growth and innovation.

Next Steps: The NCC will finalize the framework after further stakeholder consultations, ensuring a balanced and enforceable policy.

NCC Opens National Conversation on Unclaimed Recharges, Says “Consumers Must Not Be Left Behind”

NCC Opens National Conversation on Unclaimed Recharges, Says “Consumers Must Not Be Left Behind”

 In what many are describing as a bold step toward consumer-centric reform in Nigeria’s telecom space, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today convened a virtual stakeholder forum focused on the growing concern of unclaimed prepaid airtime balances—a topic that has sparked debates across boardrooms, consumer circles, and policy spaces.

The event, which attracted major players from telecom companies, consumer advocacy groups, regulators, and tech analysts, was opened with a welcome address by the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, delivered on his behalf by the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, Ms. Rimini Makama.

In his heartfelt message, Dr. Maida didn’t mince words about the urgent need to find clarity and fairness in how dormant prepaid balances are handled, especially as mobile communication continues to define life and commerce in Nigeria.

“This is more than just policy—it’s about people,” the EVC emphasized. “Millions of Nigerians rely on prepaid services because of the flexibility and affordability they offer. But as our sector evolves, we must ensure that no consumer is left behind or shortchanged.”

A System That Must Work for Everyone

For many Nigerians, topping up airtime is a daily ritual. But what happens when a SIM card goes silent for too long—due to loss, theft, or simply not being in use? That’s the grey area the NCC is now confronting head-on.

“According to the Quality-of-Service Business Rules 2024,” Dr. Maida explained, “a prepaid line that has no revenue-generating event for six months must be deactivated. If that inactivity continues for another six months, the line can be recycled for reassignment.”

He quickly added that this is not a free-for-all for operators, pointing out that the rights of subscribers must be preserved.

“Subscribers still have the right to reclaim their unused credit within one year, as long as they can prove ownership of the line,” he said. “This is a protection mechanism to make sure customers are not stripped of their credit simply because of unforeseen inactivity.”

“Use It or Lose It”? Not So Fast…

One of the most engaging parts of Dr. Maida’s address was his openness in acknowledging the controversy surrounding unclaimed recharges. Should telecom operators refund them? Should unused balances expire? Where do you draw the line between consumer rights and operational realities?

“There’s an ongoing debate,” he noted, “on whether the principle of ‘use it or lose it’ should prevail, or if we must create new mechanisms for refunding unused airtime. It’s not a simple question. But that’s exactly why we’re here—to listen, to debate, and to co-create a policy direction.”

He added that the Commission was not positioning itself as an arbiter, but rather as a facilitator of solutions.

“We’re not here with fixed answers,” Dr. Maida said. “We’re here to ask the right questions and engage with stakeholders—both operators and consumers—in shaping policies that are inclusive, fair, and forward-thinking.”

Consumer Trust Is Currency

In a sector where trust can be easily eroded by service glitches or billing issues, the NCC made it clear that restoring and maintaining consumer confidence is non-negotiable.

“We know that consumer trust is the currency that sustains this industry,” Dr. Maida declared. “If people begin to feel that their airtime can disappear without trace or recourse, we risk losing the very foundation upon which telecom services are built.”

A Call for Collaborative Action

In closing, Dr. Maida made a passionate appeal for continued collaboration among all parties—regulators, telcos, consumer groups, and the media—to ensure that policy remains dynamic, inclusive, and adaptable.

“Striking the right balance between safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring regulatory oversight, while maintaining industry sustainability, requires a collective effort,” he said. “This forum is a vital opportunity for us to ask hard questions and find practical, actionable answers.”

“Let’s talk honestly. Let’s listen openly. And let’s build a telecom ecosystem that works for everyone.”

The forum continues with presentations and breakout discussions expected to shape a whitepaper or policy recommendation in the coming weeks.

Community Wolf transforms WhatsApp into an AI-driven crime prevention platform for all South Africans

Community Wolf transforms WhatsApp into an AI-driven crime prevention platform for all South Africans

By 2026, the number of South Africans using WhatsApp is expected to reach 28 million. As the country’s most popular communication platform, imagine if WhatsApp could be transformed into a free, anonymous crime reporting tool that provides actionable insights for law enforcement. That’s exactly what Community Wolf, a pioneering community safety network, is working to achieve.
South Africa’s persistently high crime levels and the challenge of under-reporting make community-driven safety solutions a crucial part of fighting crime. Community Wolf leverages the power of WhatsApp, collective vigilance, and AI-driven insights to enhance crime prevention. The platform operates on two complementary levels: first, as a free and anonymous crime and incident reporting tool for individuals, and second, as an intelligence layer for local Community Policing Forums (CPFs), municipal law enforcement, SAPS, and private security businesses to optimise their response networks.
A supercharged AI agent for public safety
“What we’ve effectively done is create a supercharged AI agent fit for purpose within the public safety domain. And we’re delivering that to people all over South Africa, no matter their location, language, or socioeconomic background,” explains Nick Mills, Co-Founder of Community Wolf.
At its core, Community Wolf is a data-driven platform that extracts, structures, and distributes crime-related insights. It uses eight large language models (LLMs) trained to sift through vast amounts of WhatsApp group data almost instantaneously. The platform identifies key information, categorises incidents, and feeds actionable intelligence back to private security firms, CPFs, SAPS, and municipal authorities in a simple online dashboard.
In addition to offering a central reporting number, Community Wolf has introduced AI-driven “Wolf Agents” that can be easily added to existing community and security WhatsApp groups. These AI-driven agents sift through community messages in real-time, highlighting essential details and categorising incidents. By ensuring no critical information is overlooked, these Wolf Agents significantly enhance coordination, accelerate response times, and provide community members with peace of mind.
 
For individual South Africans, Community Wolf allows for entirely anonymous WhatsApp reporting, where users can send a message or voice note to a dedicated number without the need for downloads or additional apps.
The platform’s geolocation tracking and crime mapping capabilities allow incidents to be tagged and analysed in real time, providing a comprehensive overview of safety trends in specific areas. AI-driven pattern recognition further enhances this by detecting trends such as near-repeat crimes, enabling proactive intervention by security response teams.
Community Wolf also incorporates advanced license plate and facial recognition technology, offering vital verification and tracking tools for law enforcement and security providers. When vehicle details are shared through WhatsApp, an AI agent immediately checks the information against a national database, verifying license plates, vehicle registrations, and checking for any flags or associated incidents. With multilingual support, the platform aims for maximum accessibility for South Africans, allowing users to report incidents in their preferred language.
Investor support for AI-driven public safety
Following its initial pilot project in Stellenbosch, where Community Wolf collaborated with local security providers and local law enforcement to generate over 3,000 usable crime-related insights, the platform’s scalable model is now expanding its reach to other communities in South Africa.
“Our goal is to ensure that no community is left without access to smart, efficient crime reporting and prevention tools, and we are working to establish response networks in key locations across South Africa to make this a reality,” adds Mills.
Recognising the platform’s potential and the unique application of AI tooling within the public safety domain, Community Wolf recently secured $100,000 (approximately R2 million) in funding from The Baobab Network, a leading Africa-focused venture capital firm. This funding will be used to enhance Community Wolf’s AI capabilities, expand its geographic reach, and strengthen partnerships with security stakeholders across the country.
Closing the gap among citizens, law enforcement and private security providers
Community Wolf is actively engaging with community safety organisations, private security firms, neighbourhood watch groups, and municipal law enforcement agencies. Stakeholders interested in bringing the platform to their area can contact Community Wolf to set up localised response networks and integrate real-time reporting tools.
“Thousands of safety and crime-related messages are already exchanged over community and security WhatsApp groups in South Africa every day. Community Wolf can plug into and harness the power of AI and turn this data into meaningful, structured intelligence that improves safety outcomes for individuals and those tasked with keeping us safe. By enabling communities to harness AI-powered public safety tools, we are setting the foundation for a smarter, more responsive crime prevention ecosystem,” says Mills.
To sign up for Community Wolf and explore partnership opportunities, visit www.communitywolf.com or message the dedicated WhatsApp number.