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Enriching lives: A Guiding Principle (By Fhulu Badugela)

Enriching lives: A Guiding Principle (By Fhulu Badugela)

By Fhulu Badugela, CEO of Multichoice Africa (www.MultiChoice.com)

 

As MultiChoice published its annual ESG report earlier this month, I was struck by the aptness of the term sometimes used in relation to such documents: integrated reporting. Integration is fundamental to any kind of environmental, social and governance (ESG) impact.

MultiChoice Group has had three decades to find that particular sweet spot, refining its formula of enriching lives, while transforming African entertainment and broader society.

The beauty of the approach can be seen in the way key business touchpoints dovetail with ESG principles.

By way of illustration, the MultiChoice commitment to hyperlocal storytelling has meant a need to create homegrown, locally relevant content. This in turn has led MultiChoice to create regional MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) academies in Nairobi, Lagos and Lusaka, training aspiring filmmakers.

Not only has this created a rich pipeline of authentic talent, it has built a vast library of local content. This fuels the ongoing success of MultiChoice as an entertainment platform, where Africa’s people can see African creators telling African stories.

Social upliftment 
In ESG parlance, this supports the social-development pillar. To date, 467 filmmakers have been trained by the MTF. These young people have gone on to work on hit African shows on regional channels across the continent.

In East Africa, graduates secured story development grants, gained acclaim at international film festivals and showcased their commitment to environmental consciousness by presenting at the Youth and Climate Action meeting.

In West Africa, Azeezah Sama, produced by a student from the class of 2023, was selected for prestigious film festivals such as the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival. Africa Magic commissioned productions from three MTF alumni companies, generating employment opportunities and amplifying the programme’s impact in the region.

Meanwhile, in Southern Africa, MTF alumni feature films have premiered on Zambezi Magic, and interns have contributed to more than 30 professional productions, including hit shows like Idols, Adulting, My Brother’s Keeper, Champions, and Gen Zee.

Economic impact 
Besides skills development, MultiChoice makes direct investments in job creation and economic empowerment for emerging economic sectors. The MultiChoice Enterprise Development Trust oversees two key initiatives aimed at fostering the growth of startups and small enterprises: the Innovation Fund and the Africa Accelerator programme.

To date, the MultiChoice Innovation Fund has supported 77 black-owned small businesses with at least 50% female-black ownership and disbursed R407 million in loans, grants and business development expenses. This has created 1 400 employment opportunities.

MultiChoice Group has had three decades to find that particular sweet spot, refining its formula of enriching lives, while transforming African entertainment and broader society

Last year, the MultiChoice Accelerator programme helped 11 entrepreneurs from South Africa to secure more than $17 million in investments from investors in the United Arab Emirates.

Also last year, the Enterprise Development Fund funded four new tech-related companies, including two owned by black women, to the tune of R26.74 million, creating 395 jobs.

Developmental governance 
Integrated ESG principles mean that the crucial MultiChoice governance function must also have a developmental role, while still enabling the business generate value for all stakeholders.

That means ethical, developmental governance. The Group inculcates these principles in our people through mandatory training – anti-bribery, ethical conduct; and “better place to work” training on the MultiChoice Academy platform.

Another of the company’s biggest governance focus areas is the fight against content piracy, which poses a significant threat to the business and the wider industry. With Partners Against Piracy (PAP), MultiChoice has signed Memorandums of Understanding with governments across Africa to combat broadcasting piracy.

The MOUs establish partnerships for capacity building, benchmarking, and experience sharing, as well as intellectual-property rights protection, training, and skills development. In addition, a multi-governmental workshop in mid-2024 will review piracy policies and actions, with an eye to amending cybercrime legislation.

Environmental awareness 
Deeply conscious of how our operations impact the environment, MultiChoice takes direct steps to limit our emissions and energy efficiency – but always in ways that can be integrated into our ways of doing business.

We have taken proactive steps to enhance energy efficiency in our electricity consumption, air-conditioning systems, data centres, heating and ventilation. We have invested in green infrastructure, including installing light motion sensors within buildings, LEDs equipped with daylight harvesting capabilities, solar panels and energy-efficient inverter technology.

These initiatives have seen us reduce total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions to 67 675 tonnes of CO2 equivalent from 75 060 tonnes in 2023, a tangible move towards sustainability and responsible resource management through more eco-friendly operations.

We have managed to make these sustainability improvements in ways that continue to generate income for the group. The R10,7 billion we pay in taxes in 2024 underlines our integration into the continent’s economy.

Ultimately, the proof of our ESG impact will be in our ability to continue operating sustainably, into the future, in a way that enriches lives for all the people we touch.

We are proud to have met this challenge successfully for the past three decades, and we are confident we will continue doing so for decades to come, by integrating our purpose – enriching lives – into our way of doing business.

Africa Tech Festival 2024 celebrates the trailblazers shaping Africa’s tech future

Africa Tech Festival 2024 celebrates the trailblazers shaping Africa’s tech future

Africa Tech Festival (www.AfricaTechFestival.com) 2024 wrapped up last week, marking the most successful edition in the event’s 27-year history. Organised by Informa Tech, the event is Africa’s most extensive showcase of enterprise tech innovation, bringing together influential founders, business leaders, policymakers, investors, and startups.

 

Building on the momentum of the event’s first two days, the final day kicked off with an opening address by Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, City of Cape Town. Commenting on the host city’s standing as a leading tech hub hosting 51% of South Africa’s startups, he emphasised Cape Town’s focus on skills development in AI and tech in particular, reiterating his excitement at “making Cape Town a focal point for African innovation and setting an example of how tech can empower communities and social change.”

LeadersIn Africa Summit

Preceding the main event, the by-invitation LeadersIn Africa Summit was an exclusive VIP series of executive discussions designed to facilitate actionable dialogue between 100 of the continent’s most influential tech players. Panel sessions, fireside chats, networking events, and roundtables provided a platform for sharing insights and collaborating on solutions to Africa’s tech challenges. Topics ranged from emerging technologies to AI for startups, ESG, regulatory frameworks, fundraising strategies, and support for founders and investors.

Skills development and knowledge sharing

The final day of Africa Tech Festival 2024 also featured several keynote fireside discussions across the various event streams. Skills development was a theme of the day, including a masterclass session on AI content creation, a security fundamentals certification training session, and a technical workshop where participants worked in groups to develop scaling strategies for AI pilot projects.

We’re proud of the progress made in opening dialogue, sharing insights, and working together to advance Africa’s digital transformation journey

Key Highlights

The USAID Young African Leaders Initiative(YALI) hosted the YALI Alumni Expo and Trade Show running alongside Africa Tech Festival. The YALI Expo  connected and celebrated YALI alumni making positive change in their communities by creating  these networking opportunities and showcasing innovations for sustainable impact.

One of the key topics focused on the gender gap and a panel discussion on day 4 centred around   Empowering Female Founders: Narrowing the Gender Gap in Venture Capital.  The challenge that female-founded companies face is that only 16% of tech funding and 8% of total funding go to these companies due to bias, lack of female representation among venture capital decision-makers or insufficient diversity in teams and investment criteria. It was proposed that female representation in venture capital leadership needed to be increased, more training and support was essential to encourage female founders to build networks and strengthen pitch preparation and business strategies.

The Africa Tech Festival Awards took place on the penultimate  night,  at the Bay Hotel in Camps Bay, Cape Town. The awards celebrated the  exceptional technological advancements and expertise across the continent and highlighted the pioneering work that is transforming lives and industries across Africa, inspiring future innovation and growth. Some of the winners included:

  • Telco of the Year: MTN Ghana
  • Innovation for Impact: WIOCC Group
  • CXO of the Year: Patrick Benon, Orange Cameroon
  • Changing Lives Award: Orange Burkina Faso
  • Creative Visionary Award: Brighton Mhlongo
  • AIConics Award: GRIT – Gender Rights in Tech

 

“Africa Tech Festival 2024 exceeded our expectations in terms of engagement, active participation by key industry stakeholders, and the sheer scale of the event. As we wrap up the 2024 event, we’d like to express our gratitude to all our sponsors and supporters, with special mention to the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies and the City of Cape Town.

As the largest and most influential telecoms and technology event in Africa, with an audience that spans the entire ICT ecosystem, we’re proud of the progress made in opening dialogue, sharing insights, and working together to advance Africa’s digital transformation journey,” said Informa’s James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival.

Avoid the hype to unlock real value from AI

Avoid the hype to unlock real value from AI

 

By Saša Slankamenac, Architect in the office of the CTO and AI lead at Dariel Software

 

According to Gartner, artificial intelligence (AI), and especially generative AI, has reached the peak of inflated expectations. This means that early interest and publicity has created a “buzz” around the technology and our expectations around what the innovation can do exceed its current capabilities. In this stage of the hype cycle, an investment bubble can form as businesses are promised that the new technology will transform every aspect of their operations for the better. And what results is a number of impressive success stories and scores of dismal failures.

 

While generative AI does appear to present many exciting opportunities, it’s easy to become fatigued by the relentless hype; especially if you’re one of the many businesses that has deployed AI with high hopes but haven’t achieved the results you were after. But the problem with any kind of hype is that when everyone is talking about something, we tend to want to try it out so that we can be part of the conversation too. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing as long as the investments you make align with your business strategy and you have a clear roadmap that outlines how you’re going to use AI to reach broader business goals.

 

A balanced approach

In 2024, it’s more important than ever to cut through the noise and adopt AI in a way that aligns with real business needs. AI should not be adopted just because it’s trendy. It should be deployed because it’s the right solution to address a specific problem. As such, it may be a better idea for you to channel your focus and budget to restructuring your existing databases or improving current processes because this offers better returns than an AI implementation.

 

In addition to this, when developing your AI strategy, it’s vital to remember that AI is not the only way to solve a problem. Your AI deployment should complement and not replace humans. During the industrial revolution, we saw new machines and new ways of organising work transform entire industries, making them more productive and efficient. But the machines didn’t take over entirely because the human touch is critical. With this in mind, modern businesses need to find a way to strike a happy balance between leveraging AI for efficiency, while also maintaining human oversight so that they can guarantee that the technology delivers real, sustainable value.

 

This, in large part, comes down to having the necessary expertise to get the most out of AI; especially when dealing with legacy systems. If, for example, you get swept along by the AI hype but your company’s data landscape isn’t in great shape, you’re going to hit some roadblocks. Put simply, if you lack clean, usable data, AI won’t deliver the expected benefits. Before embarking on any AI implementation, be mindful of the fact that data quality has a massive impact on model performance. So, if you have data issues, these should be addressed upfront.

 

Right now, the challenge many businesses face is when to pull the trigger. While early adoption comes with higher upfront costs and greater risks, those that get involved early are the first to overcome the initial hurdles and really start experiencing the benefits of this new technology. Conversely, the businesses that hang back a little can draw on the experience of the early adopters; understanding how the innovation can be used to good effect and, just as importantly, where it adds little or no value. Whatever you decide, it all comes down to implementing AI thoughtfully and with a clear plan in place so that you can realise the potential of this technology when the time is right. And always remember that AI is an enabler, not a solution in itself.

 

Driving the Future: Africans Embrace Converting ICE Cars to EVs

Driving the Future: Africans Embrace Converting ICE Cars to EVs

 

As fuel prices soar and environmental concerns grow louder, a quiet revolution is gaining momentum on the streets of Africa. From bustling Lagos to the scenic highways of Nairobi, car owners are swapping roaring engines for the silent hum of electric motors. The conversion of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) is no longer a distant idea — it’s becoming a practical solution for the average African motorist.

At the heart of this transformation is a growing realization: the future of mobility must be sustainable, affordable, and accessible. Converting an existing ICE vehicle into an EV checks all these boxes, offering a glimpse of hope for cleaner cities, lower transportation costs, and reduced dependence on imported fuel.

From Fuel to Electric: How It Works

The process of converting an ICE car to an EV may sound complex, but for many mechanics and tinkerers across Africa, it’s a challenge worth tackling.

One such enthusiast is Joseph Mwangi, a mechanic in Nairobi who has converted over a dozen cars for his clients.

> “When I started, it was out of curiosity,” he said. “Now, it’s my livelihood. People come to me because they’re tired of spending on fuel or worried about the environment. I help them keep their car but make it electric.”

 

The process involves removing the vehicle’s internal combustion engine, fuel tank, and exhaust system. In their place, an electric motor and a battery pack are installed, along with a controller to manage power distribution. Other auxiliary systems, like charging ports and cooling systems, are added to ensure the vehicle operates efficiently.

Mwangi notes that while the process can take several weeks, the result is often worth the wait.

> “Imagine driving a car that doesn’t vibrate, doesn’t make noise, and doesn’t choke the air with smoke. That’s what I deliver.”

 

Why Convert? The Advantages Are Clear

For car owners like Mary Adebola in Lagos, converting her 2012 sedan into an EV was a decision based on cost savings.

> “Fuel was eating up my income,” she said. “Now, I just plug my car into a solar charger at home. I don’t even worry about queues at petrol stations anymore.”

 

The advantages of converting ICE cars to EVs include:

1. Cost Savings: EVs are cheaper to run than petrol or diesel vehicles. Electricity costs less than fuel, and EVs have fewer moving parts, meaning lower maintenance expenses.

2. Environmental Impact: Converting an old car into an EV keeps it out of landfills and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Energy Independence: In a continent where fuel imports dominate, EVs can be charged using renewable energy sources like solar power.

4. Longevity: A conversion breathes new life into an older vehicle, extending its usefulness and avoiding the need to buy a new car.

5. Quiet and Smooth Driving: Without an engine, EVs offer a near-silent, vibration-free ride.

 

A Growing Movement Across Africa

While the idea of EVs was once associated with luxury Teslas and high-income countries, African entrepreneurs and innovators are making it locally relevant.

In Kenya, companies like ARC Ride are pioneering EV conversion kits designed for African roads. Similarly, in South Africa, GreenTech EV Solutions has started offering tailored services to individuals and fleets. Even in Nigeria, where power supply challenges persist, interest in EV conversions is growing rapidly.

> “Africans are resourceful,” said Dr. Kehinde Afolayan, an energy consultant in Lagos. “We’re finding ways to adapt technology to our reality. From using solar energy to charge EVs to training local mechanics, the possibilities are endless.”

 

Challenges Remain

Despite the optimism, the road to widespread adoption of EV conversions is not without obstacles:

High Conversion Costs: Converting a car can cost between $5,000 and $20,000, which is out of reach for many. However, businesses and governments are exploring subsidies and financing options to lower this barrier.

Charging Infrastructure: Public charging stations are sparse across the continent, making home-based charging setups essential for early adopters.

Skill Gap: EV conversions require specialized expertise, and there are currently limited training programs in Africa.

A Vision of Hope

For Mary and others like her, these challenges are not deterrents but stepping stones to a brighter future. She envisions a time when more of her neighbors will join the movement, converting their cars and contributing to cleaner air in Lagos.

> “When people see my car, they ask, ‘Is this really electric?’” she laughs. “I tell them, ‘Yes, and you can do it too.’”

 

The Road Ahead

Africa’s journey toward sustainable mobility is just beginning, but the enthusiasm and ingenuity of its people are paving the way. As governments introduce policies to support green transportation and businesses invest in making EV technology more accessible, the dream of clean, affordable mobility is becoming a reality.

For now, converting ICE cars to EVs offers a practical and inspiring way for Africans to take control of their transportation future — one car at a time.

 

NNPC Ltd Achieves Milestone as Port Harcourt Refinery Resumes Operations and Products Truck-out Begins

NNPC Ltd Achieves Milestone as Port Harcourt Refinery Resumes Operations and Products Truck-out Begins

 

In a landmark achievement, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd. has successfully restored operations at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC). This marks a significant step in Nigeria’s quest for energy self-sufficiency as the refinery commences crude oil processing and the delivery of petroleum products to the market.

The historic event unfolded on Tuesday as trucks began loading petroleum products from the facility. The initial products dispatched include Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) or diesel, and Household Kerosene (HHK). Additional product categories are expected to follow, bolstering the nation’s fuel supply chain and reducing reliance on imports.

A New Era of Energy Independence
Speaking during the ceremony to commemorate the refinery’s re-streaming in Port Harcourt, NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mr. Mele Kyari, described the development as a monumental achievement for the nation. He underscored its significance in heralding a new era of energy independence, economic growth, and self-reliance for Nigeria.

Mr. Kyari extended his heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose unwavering support and vision were pivotal in realizing the refinery’s rehabilitation. He credited the President’s persistence and focus on energy security as instrumental in achieving this milestone, which aligns with the administration’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

The GCEO also commended the NNPC Ltd. Board of Directors, management, staff, and contractors for their collective dedication, resilience, and hard work despite the complexities and challenges faced during the refinery’s restoration. He assured Nigerians of the Company’s determination to deliver on the rehabilitation of other refineries in the country.

“Today is a proud moment for us as an organization and for Nigeria as a whole. The recommissioning of the Port Harcourt Refinery is a testament to our commitment to restoring the nation’s refining capacity and meeting legitimate public expectations,” Kyari said.

Regulatory and Safety Commitment
Adding his voice to the celebration, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Farouk Ahmed, lauded the achievement as a significant milestone. He pledged the agency’s continuous regulatory support to ensure the successful rehabilitation of Nigeria’s other refineries.

The Port Harcourt Refinery’s rehabilitation project stands as a model of operational excellence, having recorded over 16 million man-hours with zero Loss Time Injury (LTI). This Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning (EPCIC) initiative reflects a rigorous commitment to safety, efficiency, and global standards.

Economic and Strategic Impact
The resumption of operations at the PHRC holds far-reaching implications for Nigeria. It promises to address perennial challenges in fuel supply, reduce dependence on costly fuel imports, and strengthen local refining capacity. This development also supports job creation and economic stimulation in the Niger Delta region, a crucial hub for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

As the refinery begins the truck-out of petroleum products, industry stakeholders and citizens alike look forward to a ripple effect across the downstream sector, characterized by enhanced availability of fuel and improved price stability.

Looking Ahead
The Port Harcourt Refinery’s re-streaming is not just a technical achievement but a strategic move towards achieving self-sufficiency in petroleum refining. With the successful rehabilitation of this facility, attention will now shift to the timely delivery of ongoing projects at the Warri and Kaduna refineries.

NNPC Ltd. has reiterated its commitment to ensuring these initiatives are delivered promptly, ushering in a future where Nigeria can fully harness its refining capacity to meet domestic and export demands.

This achievement signals a renewed commitment to energy solutions that empower the nation, foster economic growth, and solidify NNPC’s position as a catalyst for development in the Nigerian oil and gas sector.

 

Navigating Nigeria’s peak season: insights into ever-changing consumer habits

Navigating Nigeria’s peak season: insights into ever-changing consumer habits

 

The festive season is approaching, so consumers are preparing to splurge on a holiday and spend hard-earned money on much-needed items.

But how are Nigerian consumers spending their cash? New insights from Aleph Group, a leader in the digital and technology fields, reveal insights into the trends of the Nigerian consumer as the busy season beckons.

“The peak shopping season highlights how increasingly tech-driven Nigerian consumers have become,” said Jesudetan Onasanya, Aleph’s Regional Lead, Sub-Saharan Africa. “Retailers must recognise that value, convenience, and digital engagement are no longer options but vital elements of a successful retail strategy.”

Which platforms are Nigerian shoppers using to purchase goods and services?

85% of Nigerian consumers use online shopping in one way or another. The same percentage of respondents claim they use the internet to research products they intend to purchase.

An overwhelming number of consumers use popular online shopping platforms, with 70.5% purchasing from traditional e-commerce sites. 42.5% said they had bought merchandise. Audio streaming profiles like Spotify, where users spend an average of 2.8 hours daily, provide a valuable platform to reach new consumers. Ads are delivered to users in a way that is personalised and relevant, making the experience non-intrusive.

31.6% purchased items from food, grocery, and delivery apps, highlighting the growing trend of online grocery shopping.

Consumer habits during peak season shopping 

Consumers are getting ready to indulge in holiday shopping and visiting e-commerce sites for special deals. During these periods, 36% of consumers surveyed said they always make online purchases during peak online shopping seasons, with 15% waiting for enticing offers.  32.2% said they were unaware of the shopping season but would purchase something online if it was a good deal.

Social media is the best way to connect with Nigerian consumers 

Nearly half of consumers (44%) claim to learn about new product offerings by viewing ads placed ahead of online videos. Social media apps like Snapchat are one of the most popular ways to market new products to consumers, with 61% of respondents identifying social networking platforms as how they discover new items. Social media is considered the most effective to reach consumers, with 72.3% believing social media adverts are the most impactful. On platforms such as Snapchat, the average daily time is over 40 minutes, and the audience is over 16 million people. Access to a digitally savvy audience through platforms like Snapchat is unmatched.

In-store shopping is losing its stronghold on Nigerian shoppers

Social media also has the most significant influence on Nigerian consumers’ purchasing decisions, at 42.3%. Just 2.4% of respondents said they do 100% of their shopping online, whereas 15.8% of consumers claim they do 75% online.

Nigerian customers who shop in-store still use the internet to inform their purchasing decisions. 18.5% of Nigerian consumers read online product reviews and ratings before deciding, while 13.9% compare prices online.

Pinterest, for example, has become the go-to destination for Gen Z consumers to discover new trends. 71% of users are high to medium-income earners, making it a captive audience to tap into, potentially driving high-value purchases.

Why Nigerian consumers prefer to shop online

48.8% of Nigerian consumers surveyed claim the main reason is convenience and the ability to save time, negating the need to visit a store in person. Seeing customer reviews and product ratings is another benefit, with 35.8% listing this as a motivating factor behind online shopping.

Plenty of benefits to shopping online 

Nigerian consumers have identified several factors that make e-commerce the clever choice. 69.2% of respondents said reasonable prices positively impacted their online shopping experience, while fast and free delivery made the experience more enjoyable. A fuss-free returns policy and the ability to spend loyalty points are also among the highlights of e-commerce.

Where next for consumers and e-commerce platforms?

Brands must identify the correct social media platforms for the consumers they want to market to. For example, platforms like X have seven million active users, 84% of whom are aged 18-34, making them ideal for targeting the tail end of Gen Z or the younger side of the Millennial generation. Understanding your target audience is essential.

Nigerian consumers’ buying habits during peak shopping seasons reflect a shift towards affordability and convenience—those who fail to adapt risk being left behind in an ever-competitive market.

Launch of WAM Morocco 2025 to Advance the Country’s Shift Towards Next-Generation Industries and High-Value Manufacturing

Launch of WAM Morocco 2025 to Advance the Country’s Shift Towards Next-Generation Industries and High-Value Manufacturing

KAOUN International, Organizer of GITEX, Launches WAM Morocco 2025 with Commitment and Unified Support from Morocco’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, CGEM, and AMDIE

WAM Morocco 2025 Will Spotlight Advanced Manufacturing, Sustainable Practices, Next-Gen Logistics, and AI Innovation to Accelerate Industrial Growth

 

Casablanca, Morocco – November 26, 2024 – The World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Expo & Summit (WAM Morocco) will debut in Casablanca, with unified support to catalyse Morocco’s thriving manufacturing economy towards next-generation industries. Endorsed by the Moroccan Ministry of Industry and Trade and in partnership with key partners, namely the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) and the Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency (AMDIE), WAM Morocco aims to expand the nation’s industrial base, foster new sectors, and drive capacity building for sustainable growth.

 

Taking place from 28–30 October 2025 at the Foire Internationale de Casablanca (FIC), WAM Morocco is organised by KAOUN International, the force behind GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest and most influential tech and AI show, and GITEX Africa in Morocco – the continent’s largest tech and start-up event.

 

Morocco’s robust manufacturing and logistics base in the automotive and aerospace sectors, boosted by initiatives such as the Fez Smart Factory and $600 million National Port Strategy 2030, has drawn substantial international investment.

Morocco has become the largest non-European automotive exporter to Europe. In addition, it has a significant presence in the aerospace sector, with exports totalling $2.2 billion and serving major clients such as Boeing and Airbus. Recent advancements in manufacturing and logistics have strengthened Morocco’s foundation, positioning the nation in the global spotlight as it prepares to host WAM Morocco successfully.

H.E. Ryad Mezzour, Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, expressed his support, stating: “WAM Morocco represents a significant milestone in Morocco’s journey to becoming one of the foremost hubs for advanced manufacturing in Africa and the world. Being part of this event highlights our nation’s commitment to innovation, economic resilience, and industrial leadership. By bringing together global and local expertise, we are creating an environment where high-tech innovation and sustainable practices can thrive, propelling our country and the continent towards a prosperous, technology-driven future.”

The organiser of WAM Morocco and GITEX Africa, Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, added: “WAM Morocco is a strategic and powerful manoeuvre for Morocco, accelerating the country’s, and the continent’s, prominence in high-tech industries and unlocking unparalleled access to global technological capabilities. This event will create powerful competitive advantages for the Moroccan and African ecosystems. By bringing together the best in innovation, investment, and collaboration, WAM Morocco is set to ignite Africa’s next wave of industrial revolution, paving the way for African nations to lead high-speed growth on the global stage.”

Event Highlights and Strategic Objectives

WAM Morocco is set to advance and support Morocco’s vision of becoming a sustainable, globally competitive manufacturing hub by showcasing cutting-edge manufacturing and next-generation technologies in AI, quantum computing, 3D printing, blockchain, and mixed reality. WAM Morocco shall feature a range of specialised events, including WAP (World Advanced Packing, Printing, and Plastic Technologies), WARM (World Advanced Rubber & Metal Industrial Technologies), and WASIM (World Advanced Sustainable Manufacturing), each dedicated to driving innovation and excellence in their respective fields.

 

Built on Morocco’s industrial success, WAM Morocco aims to accelerate its position as a leader in advanced manufacturing by leveraging AI, deep tech, and sustainable practices. The event will foster public-private partnerships, attract foreign investment, and support local capacity-building, creating a lasting economic impact and strengthening Morocco’s role as a high-tech, sustainable manufacturing powerhouse in Africa.

 

Chakib Alj, President of the Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), voiced support for the momentum driving Morocco’s industrial transformation, emphasising the importance of public-private collaboration: “This gathering is more than an event—it’s a vital platform for Moroccan businesses, particularly SMEs, to engage on the world stage, connect with leading international innovators, and form partnerships that will accelerate our industrial progress. By uniting our start-ups and industry leaders with global pioneers, we’re laying the groundwork for sustained growth, competitiveness, and economic resilience. We support this significant initiative and look forward to the long-term economic impact it will bring to Morocco and Africa as a whole.”

For more information, please visit WAM Morocco’s official website.

–END–

 

Website: https://event.wammorocco.com/

 

Social Media: LinkedIn

 

About KAOUN International and WAM Morocco

KAOUN International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), is at the forefront of organising transformative global events that foster collaboration, innovation, and industry growth. Building on a rich legacy of landmark exhibitions such as GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest tech and AI event, KAOUN International is also responsible for the Kingdom’s most significant food industry events, including the Saudi Food Show and the thriving Saudi Food Manufacturing show.

 

In line with its mission to advance global industry and logistics, KAOUN International presents World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Expo & Summit (WAM Morocco), Africa’s leading industrial and logistics expo. Organised by the team behind the renowned GITEX and GITEX AFRICA events, WAM Morocco reflects Morocco’s steadfast commitment to sustainable and inclusive industrial development. This landmark event aims to empower African nations, driving partnerships, investment, and technological advancement that will elevate the continent’s global competitiveness and realise the vision for a stronger, interconnected, and innovative industrial economy across Africa.

 

Strategies to bridge the technical skills divide

Strategies to bridge the technical skills divide


By: Simon Bishop, Global Head of Talent Acquisition, SoftwareOne

Organisations around the world – including in South Africa – face significant recruitment challenges, chasing the best technical talent available from a limited resource pool.
SoftwareOne’s Cloud Skills Report, reporting research conducted in 2023, shows that this global shortage is impacting 98% of organisations, with delays in critical projects and missed financial targets due to the lack of cloud skills. This year,  SoftwareOne sponsored the Institute of IT Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) Skills Report.  The report highlights how the skills shortage in South Africa is inhibiting the country’s ability to leverage its digital economy, which is essential for economic growth and reducing unemployment. This, in turn, has real cost implications in opportunities, revenue and competitivity lost.
Urgent need to close the gap
Although skills deficits differ from country to country, the issues remain the same. Essentially, there is a lag between the supply in the number of graduates qualifying in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects, and the demand from business. Globally, 35% of graduates are from STEM-related subjects, while in South Africa the situation is more critical with only 13% of students gaining degrees in related fields. These deficiencies in the formal education system create a barrier to bridging the digital skills gap. Add to this the ‘revolving door’ approach to job opportunities, where many young, qualified people chase the same set of the most lucrative and challenging roles, and the gap becomes larger.
Skills development as a continuous process
Given the speed with which technology is moving in its adoption and application in the workplace, a graduate who leaves an institute of higher learning with a degree earned over three or four years will soon find their academic learning obsolete. The IITPSA survey underscores the importance of academia-industry partnerships in addressing the ICT skills gap, highlighting that 24% of respondents advocate for additional graduate and professional training programs.  This emphasises the need for collaboration between educational institutions and industry to align curricula with evolving technological demands. To address skills gaps that widen over time, companies need to adopt a mindset of continuous learning, identifying opportunities to refresh and update prior learning. They also need to be prioritising upskilling teams to keep pace with evolving cloud and AI tech demands. The IITPSA survey further reveals that South African employers identify ‘lack of training and education at basic level’ and ‘an insufficient pool of new graduates’ as major drivers of the skills gap, with 24% of respondents noting the need for additional graduate and professional training programmes. Furthermore, rapid technological change means skills acquired in traditional educational settings often don’t meet immediate industry needs, a gap being addressed by short courses and micro-credentials tailored to specific competencies.
With the widening skills gap, attracting, retaining, and developing staff requires organisations to invest in continuous learning opportunities, whether through in-house or external facilities. To this end, for example, SoftwareOne has its own academy providing learning courses that in some cases run concurrently with on-the-job training, building stronger pathways into technological careers.
 
 
Tapping into underutilised talent sources
To help future-proof their operations, companies should look to develop an agile, skilled workforce with depth of quantity and quality, finding new pools of talent from which they can draw. In this way companies will better be able to manage a highly competitive work environment and fill their skills pipeline.
Both the 2024 IITPSA report and SoftwareOne’s 2023 Cloud Skills report identified currently untapped talent sources, such as mid-career professionals looking to change direction, women returning to work after a break to raise a family, and other diverse age groups and career stages. There are many opportunities for these individuals with limited or no prior experience in technology to enter or re-enter the world of digital technology. Promoting diversity is critical in closing the skills gap as well as in bringing multiple points of view to technical innovation.
The IITPSA report in particular highlights the under-representation of women in the technology sector, which has ranged between 23%-34.3% over the past decade. Given that women account for just over 50% of South Africa’s population, this limits the available talent pool for the country. SoftwareOne’s Academy has a ‘Returnship’ initiative that supports women by focusing on bringing them back into the workplace after a career break. This initiative is an example of how organisations can actively address gender disparities, aligning with the IITPSA’s emphasis on increasing female representation in ICT to help close the skills gap.
Collaborative reskilling efforts
Only through the efforts of public private partnerships can the technology sector collaboratively ensure that education systems, business and industry leaders align to meet future ICT demands. This requires a degree of knowledge sharing and proactive talent sourcing strategies to prepare for emerging technology needs and mitigate skills shortages before they become critical. The technologies shaping the workforce in 2025, and the most in demand but under supplied, include AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and data science. These technologies are evolving all the time, underscoring the need for timely and relevant skills development programmes.
The IITPSA report points out that while 97% of organisations are focusing on workforce upskilling, addressing human factors such as building a culture of empowerment and optimism are essential to improving retention, boosting productivity and enhancing the overall work experience. Similarly, SoftwareOne’s Cloud Skills Report reveals that 93% of companies view investment in immediate solutions like cloud managed services as a priority to address skills shortages, reinforcing the broader vision of enabling sustainable digital transformation by placing people at the centre of technological progress.
Workforce trends
The rising trend of remote and hybrid work models is reflected in both SoftwareOne’s Cloud Skills Report findings and those of the IITPSA Skills Report. Remote working and digital nomadism align with SoftwareOne’s perspective on worker retention strategies, enabling SoftwareOne (and other companies who subscribe to this way of thinking) to attract global talent and potentially fill local skills gaps. The IITPSA report shows that 8% of South African ICT professionals are working remotely for overseas employers. “Remote work has enabled South Africans to compete in a global ICT talent pool,” says the report.
Conclusion
It is clear that there is a need for different strategies to address the global and local digital skills gap.
Investments in cloud managed services, alongside targeted reskilling efforts, can directly address the productivity and retention challenges that arise from skills shortages. In parallel, targeted reskilling efforts ensure long-term sustainability by creating a pipeline of skilled professionals. These include stronger partnerships between academia and industry, the expansion of short term and micro-credential skills-based certifications, flexible work arrangements to incentivise employees, and the inclusion of more women in the skills pipeline.
Not addressing the digital skills gap is detrimental to the future of businesses across all sectors and will have an impact of the growth of South Africa’s economy and its ability to reduce unemployment. A strong pipeline of ICT skills is required to support the development of the digital economy and to ensure South Africa remains an attractive investment destination for international technology providers.

Why Ogi is Not a Healthy Alternative Meal for Babies Under 18 Months

Why Ogi is Not a Healthy Alternative Meal for Babies Under 18 Months

 

Ogi, commonly known as corn pap, has been a traditional staple food for infants in Africa for generations. Despite its long-standing presence, it might not be the healthiest option for babies under 18 months. According to Roberta Edu, the founder and CEO of Moppet Baby Food, an infant food manufacturing firm, Ogi has several nutritional and safety drawbacks that parents should consider.

1. Contains Less or No Fiber

The process of making Ogi involves washing out the starch, which strips the grains of their natural fiber. Fiber is essential for a child’s growth and digestive health. The absence of fiber can lead to digestive issues in babies.

2. Potential Toxic Elements

Public grinders often used to prepare Ogi may introduce toxic elements, such as iron particles, into the food. While these particles are invisible, they can cause serious health problems, including developmental and neurological issues in children.

3. Limited Nutrients

The traditional preparation method washes away many essential vitamins and minerals, leaving Ogi nutritionally deficient. Babies require a wide range of nutrients for proper growth and development, which Ogi cannot provide.

4. Imbalance in Grain Mixture and Portion

Ogi preparation often lacks precision. The person making it may not be aware of the nutritional requirements of a baby, leading to an imbalance in calories, protein, and other vital nutrients.

5. Lack of Protein

As Ogi is predominantly made from grains, it is low in protein, a nutrient critical for a baby’s growth and overall development. Prolonged protein deficiency can hinder a child’s progress.

6. Risk of Contamination

Traditional Ogi preparation methods can expose the food to bacterial contamination due to poor hygiene practices. Contaminated Ogi poses significant health risks to infants, including infections and foodborne illnesses.

7. Inconsistent Quality

The quality of Ogi varies depending on its source and preparation process. This inconsistency affects its nutritional value and safety, making it an unreliable choice for feeding babies.

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Why Moppet Baby Food is the Better Alternative

Roberta Edu strongly advises parents against compromising their child’s health with guesswork. Moppet Baby Food offers a safe, nutritionally balanced alternative tailored to meet the dietary needs of growing infants. With Moppet Foods, parents can trust they are providing their babies with the best start in life.

 

Edited by

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

How Interconnection Debt is Affecting Nigeria’s Telecom Industry – A Call for Urgent Action

How Interconnection Debt is Affecting Nigeria’s Telecom Industry – A Call for Urgent Action

 

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Nigeria’s telecom industry is facing a serious crisis, and it’s not something that can be ignored any longer. The interconnection debts owed to telecom operators by financial institutions, especially banks, have ballooned into a massive issue. These debts, now running into hundreds of billions, have created a ripple effect that threatens to destabilize the entire sector.

The figures speak for themselves—what started as N32 billion in 2022 has now skyrocketed to over N120 billion. This is money that telecom companies rely on to keep their networks running smoothly, maintain infrastructure, and continue providing essential services like mobile banking, payments, and communications. But with financial institutions dragging their feet in paying up, the telecom industry is struggling to keep up.

One of the most impressive aspects of the situation is the way the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is stepping up to address the crisis. The NCC, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has been working tirelessly to ensure that banks fulfill their financial obligations. This collaboration is a powerful example of regulatory bodies coming together to protect a critical sector and ensure that services remain uninterrupted. Through this concerted effort, the NCC is sending a clear message to the financial sector: pay up, or risk damaging the telecom industry, which is vital to Nigeria’s economy.

However, the debts are doing more than just putting pressure on telecom companies—they’re also causing a domino effect that is hurting the industry in many ways. First and foremost, the failure to settle these debts has a direct impact on job security within the telecom sector. Without the necessary cash flow to expand and upgrade their networks, telecom companies may be forced to scale back operations, laying off employees, and reducing the number of new jobs created in the sector.

Secondly, this ongoing debt crisis is shaking investor confidence. Telecom companies in Nigeria are already dealing with high operational costs, and the added burden of unpaid debts makes the sector appear increasingly unstable. For investors, this is a major red flag. If the sector cannot maintain a stable cash flow and meet its financial obligations, they may think twice before making long-term investments in telecom infrastructure or services. As a result, this could slow down the pace of innovation, infrastructure development, and the expansion of telecom services across Nigeria and beyond.

Lastly, the debts are also preventing telecom companies from reinvesting their profits into their operations. Profit reinvestment is essential for the growth and diversification of any business, but telecom operators who are left waiting for billions in unpaid debts cannot afford to put money back into their networks or expand into new areas of business. This stagnation can have long-term negative effects, limiting the sector’s ability to evolve with changing technologies and market demands.

The good news is that the NCC and CBN are making strides in resolving the issue. Their active involvement is crucial in preventing the further deterioration of the telecom sector. The NCC has done well in leading the way to clear these debts and ensure that telecom companies can continue to thrive. But this effort must be supported by all stakeholders—especially the banks and financial institutions that owe telecom operators.

At the end of the day, these debts are not just a financial issue; they are a matter of national importance. The telecom industry is a pillar of Nigeria’s digital economy, and if we don’t address the outstanding debts, we risk undermining the entire sector. The role of the NCC in making sure these debts are cleared is crucial, not just for the telecom companies, but for the economy at large.

If the debts are paid, if telecom companies are given the resources they need to continue growing, and if investors feel confident that the sector is stable, then Nigeria’s telecom industry can continue to be a leader in Africa’s digital revolution. But if we continue to let these debts pile up, we’ll be looking at a future where telecom companies can’t expand, job opportunities shrink, and Nigeria’s ambitions for digital growth fall short. The time to act is now, and the NCC is showing us the way. Let’s not waste it.

 

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu