In 2019, Forbes magazine <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/zarkodimitrioski/2019/02/13/how-much-money-is-in-the-global-marketing-industry-more-than-we-believed/?sh=2ab410b917c3">reported</a> that the global marketing industry was worth $1.7 trillion worldwide. Last year, the estimated total for global digital advertising and marketing alone was <a href="https://www.reportlinker.com/p03646022/Global-Digital-Advertising-and-Marketing-Industry.html?utm_source=PRN">$322.5 billion</a>, projected to reach $640.2 billion by 2027. These numbers are evidence of marketing’s growing importance as a central consideration in companies’ business imperatives. The Nedbank IMC, an integrated marketing conference aimed at South African and African marketers and trademarked as Marketing is BusinessTM, seeks to ignite conversations that encourage the critical consideration of the business of marketing and its migration from backroom to boardroom. 



From having traditionally been regarded as a tactical cost centre, executives are now eyeing marketing as an investment and driver of growth. When global consulting firm McKinsey conducted <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/marketing-and-sales/our-insights/views-from-the-top-what-ceos-and-other-execs-really-think-of-marketing">research</a> two years ago seeking to probe C-suite opinions of marketing, it was found that CEOs were in support of marketing’s “mission and growth agenda”. This changing perception could be summed up by one respondent who said that marketing and data had become the “first-class citizens in a way they were not four to five years ago.” This “first class” citizenship came down to two main aspects: the measurability of marketing, and the ability of marketing to demonstrate complete ownership of the customer.



In a <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbooksauthors/2021/05/20/marketing-at-the-crossroads-backroom-button-pushers-or-boardroom-influencers/?sh=53ee19073db4">Forbes magazine column</a> published earlier this year, Dr Debbie Qaqish, a chief strategy officer, underscores the point of customer ownership. She writes that sales teams may only become aware of customers once they are already 70 to 80 percent of their way through the buyer’s journey, while marketers have full visibility of the customer from the get-go, thus being able to influence &#8211; and own &#8211; the customer journey from beginning to end.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="533" height="800" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2-533x800.jpg" alt="native" class="wp-image-406777" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2-533x800.jpg 533w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2-53x80.jpg 53w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2-768x1153.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2.jpg 850w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px" /><figcaption>Dale Hefer, CEO Nedbank IMC</figcaption></figure>



Today there around 8,000 marketing technology tools which marketers can leverage in determining how data can be harnessed to drive proactive and responsive campaigns that not only meet but anticipate customer needs throughout the buyer journey. C-suite executives are becoming cognisant of how this powerhouse of information can significantly impact the company’s profitability and growth. The <a href="https://www.teradata.com/Resources/White-Papers/Forging-the-Future-of-Customer-Experience-CMO-Council-and-Teradata-Research">CMO Council reports</a> that 91 percent of marketers felt that there was an expectation by senior management and board members for marketers to drive measurable growth, with one in three saying that their business leaders felt it was the&nbsp;primary mandateof marketers today.



However, this brings with it certain challenges. The marketing function is being driven beyond branding and into the realm of customer experience and revenue growth.&nbsp;The CMO Council’s research points to the struggles of marketers as they wade through abundant data, and the emphasis this now places on marketing leaders to understand how to integrate customer data, scale customer insights, turn insights into action, and build the customer-experience culture. As many as 60 percent of marketers were reportedly unhappy with the depth and granularity of customer insights, while over 30 percent admitted to not having the data to know, let alone anticipate, their customers’ needs.



Conversely, marketers are also faced with criticism by CEOs over the analytics used to measure campaigns, particularly in the digital marketing and social media space. For example, C-suite executives are critiquing an over-reliance on measurements which for them have no overt link to business goals and growth. Behavioural targeting platform Bango <a href="https://marketingtechnews.net/news/2021/jun/02/65-of-uk-ceos-think-marketers-focus-on-analytics-too-much/">suggests</a> that instead of quoting social media statistics to C-suite executives, such as the number of likes, retweets, impressions and followers, marketers would be better off using social media marketing to collect insights into what customers are buying; focusing on engagement that ties back to sales. Bango cautions that, in a survey of 200 UK-based CEOs, 62 percent felt that too much marketing budget is wasted on activities that don’t deliver meaningful results. If engagement doesn’t tie back to sales then it quickly becomes a huge drain on company resources.



Understanding that “Marketing is BusinessTM” is increasingly important, with the conversation between marketers and CEOs never as crucial as it is today. Marketers are operating within a constantly shifting terrain as marketing evolves from a cost centre to a profit driver. Within this context, CEOs must employ insight when considering marketing’s contributions to growth, ensuring that as a discipline it is neither side-lined (and excluded from boardroom decisions) nor its role in the company misinterpreted.



The Nedbank IMC will further this conversation (amongst others) at the annual virtual event scheduled for 29 July this year, as Nedbank Group’s CEO, Mike Brown, joins in conversation with Khensani Nobanda, the Nedbank Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs. The goal of the Nedbank IMC is that conversations such as these remain ongoing at boardroom level, where marketing’s identity can be firmly entrenched and its potential articulated against business goals.



For marketers, perhaps the one constant is that their domain continues to change and adapt, and this state of flux is the nature of the beast. Consider a McKinsey <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/marketing-and-sales/our-insights/the-changing-face-of-marketing">article</a> “The changing face of marketing”, which states that “change is the dominant&nbsp;fact of life in every business today. And the ability to master and exploit change has become one of the most sought-after management skills. This is particularly true in marketing, where the very tempo of change is constantly quickening.” While apt for the current business environment, these words were written in 1966. While marketing has always been a part of business, perhaps now 54 years later, it will finally be regarded as business.







Dale Hefer is CEO of the Nedbank IMC,&nbsp;Africa’s foremost integrated marketing conference&nbsp;aimed at local and African marketers, and a consecutively sold-out event in 2019 and 2020 (lauded as the “virtual benchmark”).&nbsp; This year’s event will be held on 29 July:&nbsp;One day. One stream. 18 top local and international speakers. No sales pitches – just hard-hitting and practical insights for anyone involved in any discipline of marketing.&nbsp; At any level. &nbsp;Marketing is Business™.&nbsp;



Dale is a former Businesswoman of the Year, award-winning entrepreneur and the bestselling author of the marketing book “From Witblits to Vuvuzelas’.&nbsp; Her second book entitled “Hustling, Happiness, and a Blow-Up Doll Named Percy” was launched on 20 May 2021. Dale is the founder of top advertising agency Chillibush, which she started in 1998 and sold in 2014. By then it was billing more than R100m per year.&nbsp;



For more information on the Nedbank IMC go to <a href="https://imcconference.com/">Nedbank IMC Conference</a>.



Website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.imcconference.com">www.imcconference.com</a>



Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/IMCConference">www.facebook.com/IMCConference</a>



Twitter:&nbsp;@IMCConf

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Measuring the business of marketing

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="270" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ABSA_Insights_AgricultureSeries_CNBC_1910x600_V4-820x270.jpg" alt="native" class="wp-image-406017" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ABSA_Insights_AgricultureSeries_CNBC_1910x600_V4-820x270.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ABSA_Insights_AgricultureSeries_CNBC_1910x600_V4-300x99.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ABSA_Insights_AgricultureSeries_CNBC_1910x600_V4-140x46.jpg 140w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ABSA_Insights_AgricultureSeries_CNBC_1910x600_V4-768x253.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ABSA_Insights_AgricultureSeries_CNBC_1910x600_V4-1536x505.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ABSA_Insights_AgricultureSeries_CNBC_1910x600_V4.jpg 1910w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



In April 2012, legendary US investor and market commentator Jim Rogers made a bold pronouncement: Farmers, not bankers would be the next group driving Ferraris and Lamborghinis.



In a popular <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/steveforbes/2012/05/10/legendary-jim-rogers-brokers-going-broke-farmers-will-become-rich-very-rich/?sh=13f34305f2d2">interview with Forbes magazine</a>, he said:



“More people in America study public relations than study farming. We have no farmers. You went to Princeton; nobody you went to school with became a farmer. I went to Yale; nobody I went to Yale with became a farmer. The average age of farmers in America is 58 years old. In Japan, the average age is 66. In Australia, it&#8217;s 58.”



Fast-forward to 2021 and while there are not a lot of sports car owning farmers on the African continent [yet], the investment case for the Agriculture sector is intact.



The issues that Rogers touched on in this interview are incredibly relevant today. The training of young farmers on the continent, access to infrastructure and the rising cost of agriculture and “soft” commodities are all likely to be catalysts for the sector over the next decade. Considering that Africa holds more than 60% of the worlds uncultivated arable land and the sector counts for roughly 12 – 15% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the continent, it is critical that we embrace strategies for growing this part of the economy.



Looking at our deal pipeline for the bank and our ongoing engagements with clients, forward-thinking entrepreneurs and investors are prepared to take a 15-20 year view on the continent.



Agriculture for the most part has been a shining light for the continent and the investor community and governments have recognised that agri is a driver of a couple of key aspects:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Overall economic growth</li><li>Job creation, particularly entry-level and micro-entrepreneurs where the sector accounts for roughly 60% of jobs on the continent</li><li>Food security</li><li>A commitment from all stakeholders to invest in R&amp;D and critical infrastructure</li></ul>



To fully realise the benefits of the agri opportunities on the continent, this investment in infrastructure is critical.



Consider for a moment that 55% of the cost of agricultural products exported from Malawi consists of transport costs while approximately 20-25% of all cereal products produced on the continent are lost in the logistics chain.



South Africa has a very real challenge in that Transnet is our major mover of maize products but only has capacity to move 40% of the grain for export to the ports – the rest is forced to be moved via expensive trucking routes. &nbsp;We have often heard that it is cheaper to transport maize from the USA to Cape Town than from Viljoenskroon to Cape Town. Until we can build critical capacity in these areas, African produce will prove to be expensive and unreliable.



Sub-Saharan Africa remains a net importer of food and is missing out on the solid increases in commodity prices. This impacts the ability of countries to secure valuable foreign exchange revenue that governments require to fund budget deficits. &nbsp;



Fortunately, the continent is recognising that investment is required and there are a number of success stories that we can reference.



The Cashew nut industry in Kenya is getting the attention it needs after decades of regression as a result of government taking an investor- friendly stance toward capacitating this strategic sector.



In Tanzania – which currently imports 50% of its sugar requirements – government has deemed this commodity a strategic one. 5000 hectares and the equivalent of R1.5bn has been set aside to develop local capacity.&nbsp; We expect this investment in the entire sugar value chain to have a profound effect on the local sector here and build a product which will be export ready in the next decade. The Tanzanian government has also realised the folly of interfering in the Cashew nut sector, and has taken a much more investor friendly stance.



Countries like Mozambique, Rwanda, Malawi and Uganda have also seen private and public sector investment in infrastructure rise and we believe that this will receive a further kicker from the improvement in intra-Africa trade.



The fertilizer sector is another one which offers significant growth prospects and countries like Zambia are investing heavily here. For context of the scale of the opportunity, the average fertilizer application per hectare across the globe is 142kg. In South Africa, this currently sits at 66kg and sub-Saharan Africa is 19kg.



Closer to home, we have seen a bumper in Citrus crops and this represents a very significant export opportunity. While government often comes in for criticism, feedback from the industry suggests that the proposed investment in port infrastructure is expected to pay dividends and being well received by the local Citrus value chain. &nbsp;There are significant challenges, but the traction is seemingly in the right direction.



A key question that is often asked – primarily by our South African clients – is around the contentious issue of property rights and whether this is holding back investment on the continent. This question is closely followed by the one about security and whether this is impacting investment appetite, particularly in light of recent events in Mozambique.



The short answer is that while these issues are topical and important, as far as we can see it is not something which has significantly dampened appetite for investment in major agri projects, financially strong agribusinesses are still investing for the long run. &nbsp;



While we haven’t quite reached the farmers in sports cars stage in the development of local agriculture, there is no question that this is one of the economic bright spots on the radar and there are some very exciting projects that can be funded in the coming years.



As a Pan-African bank specialising in the agri sector, we look forward to working with our clients to facilitate their growth as we usher in a bold new era.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="258" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CNBC-Video-Wall-KV-Visual-Only-02-820x258.png" alt="" class="wp-image-406647" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CNBC-Video-Wall-KV-Visual-Only-02-820x258.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CNBC-Video-Wall-KV-Visual-Only-02-300x94.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CNBC-Video-Wall-KV-Visual-Only-02-140x44.png 140w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CNBC-Video-Wall-KV-Visual-Only-02-768x241.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CNBC-Video-Wall-KV-Visual-Only-02-1536x483.png 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CNBC-Video-Wall-KV-Visual-Only-02.png 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>

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Farmers, Ferraris and harvesting good investments in Africa

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="258" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Absa-Access_CNBC-Header-Banner-_1910x600-130-kb-820x258.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-403175" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Absa-Access_CNBC-Header-Banner-_1910x600-130-kb-820x258.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Absa-Access_CNBC-Header-Banner-_1910x600-130-kb-300x94.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Absa-Access_CNBC-Header-Banner-_1910x600-130-kb-768x241.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Absa-Access_CNBC-Header-Banner-_1910x600-130-kb-1536x483.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Absa-Access_CNBC-Header-Banner-_1910x600-130-kb.jpg 1910w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Technological breakthroughs in the banking industry have shaped how we bank today, advancing an industry that is reliant on innovation to meet the needs of its clients. These advancements are a part of our everyday life and challenge banks to create innovative solutions that make their clients’ run their business easier and it is imperative that the industry adopts the latest trends in technology, security, design and data. &nbsp;



As a Transactional Banking business, Absa’s ambition is to provide its clients with a Pan-African platform that will enable them to effortlessly oversee their payments, collections, information products, trade finance, FX and international banking as well as liquidity management through a single platform.



For this reason, Absa Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) has over the past three years been investing in building out the Absa Access platform. Absa Access is a Pan-African, single sign-on platform that gives clients standardised, secure, and near real-time access to their business portfolios and the banking services. This enables them to make informed decisions to drive the growth of their businesses, managing their finances with the speed and intelligence that the platform provides.



“This platform will offer our Corporate clients with an integrated solution to complete their domestic and cross border payments including verified payments &#8211; including Tax and Custom Payments. This ensures greater visibility of their cash flow needs in all their markets, says Yasmin&nbsp;Masithela, Managing Executive for Transactional Banking at Absa Corporate and Investment Banking



A game-changing platform launched as part of Absa CIB’s digital journey, Absa Access is testament to Absa’s decision to become a digitally-led organisation.&nbsp;



“Absa&nbsp;Access&nbsp;provides a framework which enables clients in the way that makes the most sense for them be it online, host, mobile or API’s or a combination thereof across all geographies.&nbsp;The convenience and risk mitigation options of this framework are enormous as well as allowing us to have a multi-tenant approach which allows us to significantly increase the rate of change to this environment as the market changes around us,” says Masithela. &nbsp;



James Scott, Head of Absa Digital and Platform Services, says there has been a big shift in the way that businesses are looking for solutions from their banking partners. “It is imperative that the industry adopts the latest trends in digital, data, security, experience and design. The shift from traditional products to platforms will be a big trend unfolding on the continent in years to come.”



Masithela believes that the payment industry on the continent will represent a big opportunity for the CIB cluster, driven by the displacement of cash, increased digitisation and the potentially shifting regulatory landscape. The opportunity to deliver solutions and form partnerships to capture the growth will be essential and with competition from fintechs, telcos and the traditional players it’s going to be an interesting time for the continent.



The increase in the number of Fintechs, innovative solutions from Acquirers and other technology companies as well as digital solutions from Telcos operators will all provide new&nbsp;opportunities on the continent.&nbsp;



The biggest opportunity remains the displacement of physical cash which still accounts for more than 70% of transactions and remains a costly method of doing payments. According to a study by Mastercard, the cost of cash processing &nbsp;in South Africa is R23billion and estimated to be R45billion in Nigeria according to analysis from the Research Gate reviewing the importance of the Cashless Policy in Nigeria, says Masithela.



Data out of the African Development Bank estimates the Trade Finance Gap in Africa to be $91bn, with the focus on Intra Africa Trade and improving credit risk management solutions on the continent, the ability to offer innovative finance solutions on the continent will offer new opportunities for growing the bank’s market share in trade.



New digital solutions &#8211; such as concluding trade transactions using blockchain &#8211; will increase the data integration between the flow of goods and the financial transaction flow, which will improve the risk profile of trade transactions and be the catalyst for narrowing the Trade Finance Gap. &nbsp;



Masithela concludes: “We have invested in both technology and people in this space and are transforming towards a more modern world which is more aligned to customers and responsive to market changes.”

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Innovation is key to unlocking Africa’s banking potential

Johannesburg, 14 April 2021 – Professional Provident Society (PPS), the financial services company focused solely on providing financial solutions for graduate professionals, produced a resilient 2020 performance. This was amid a year in which COVID-19 impacted lives and livelihoods. Despite this, PPS stood focused on delivering its core purpose of paying valid claims and protecting its members’ financial health.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="258" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/1910x600-banner_Imbi-1-820x258.gif" alt="" class="wp-image-402370" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/1910x600-banner_Imbi-1-820x258.gif 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/1910x600-banner_Imbi-1-300x94.gif 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/1910x600-banner_Imbi-1-768x241.gif 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/1910x600-banner_Imbi-1-1536x483.gif 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



PPS’s strategy of delivering value to members, its strong balance sheet, coupled with growth of the business, contributed to its solid performance in this tumultuous period.



“We entered 2020 with solid capital reserves and with good momentum. This meant that we could act swiftly to put relief measures in place, pay claims reliably, secure our adviser network and maintain our full staff complement throughout the lockdown. The unique situation presented by the pandemic also served as a catalyst to accelerate the process of expanding and implementing our digitalisation strategy,” says Izak Smit, PPS Group CEO.



“Our resilience as a business, strong organisational values, the performance-driven culture of our people and our trusted relationship with financial advisers added to the sustainability of PPS through this difficult year,” he adds.



PPS is unique in the South African financial services industry, differentiated by its ethos of mutuality.



“This has proved its value as we mark 80 years since PPS was founded by a group of hard-working dentists who chose a methodology which is nowadays not so common in financial institutions. Mutuality permeates every aspect of our business, from the way we are structured to how new innovations are designed. The past year has again confirmed the purpose of our existence: to protect our members and their families so that they can focus on their professions and the lives they want to live.



“Our performance is significant against the backdrop of spending nine months of our 2020 financial year operating under lockdown. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of mutuality in providing financial security and long-term benefits to our members.



“In 2020, the Group paid R4.84 billion in benefit pay-outs and valid claims to members. This is 29% up from R3.74 billion in 2019. Focusing on life claims in particular, this amounted to R3.12 billion in 2020, up 45% on the R2.16 billion in 2019. Of this, PPS paid more than 4 200 COVID-19-related claims to the value of R389.8 million between March and December 2020. As expected, medical professionals were most affected by the pandemic and accounted for 74% of these claims.”



Commenting on the performance, Smit says: “PPS has been able to provide a reliable financial safety net for its members. Because there were no outside shareholder interests to protect – we do not have such stakeholders – we looked for opportunities to assist members adjusting claim and premium protocols specific to the pandemic, while ensuring fairness between different cohorts of members. Despite this, due to our strong balance sheet and inherent profitability of the risk pool and the businesses, PPS was still able to allocate R2.2 billion in 2020 in total profit to our members with qualifying products.”



Smit adds that the Group’s life insurance gross earned premiums was R5.12 billion and were 7% up on the R4.77 billion in 2019. While many members’ finances were strained, and they remained cautious about spending, their awareness of the need to protect themselves and their families against unforeseen shocks increased. This, and assistance with premiums where members were struggling, helped to keep lapses low. Despite the challenges of 2020, all the subsidiaries showed incremental growth. PPS Investments had a strong year. Gross new investment flows to PPS Investments of R7.5 billion were 22% up on the prior year.



Among the innovations introduced in 2020 to address the evolving needs of professionals is the enhanced PPS Profit-Share Cross-Holdings Booster. This makes loyal members’ Profit-Share work even harder for them in the long term, rewarding them based on the combination of products from PPS Investments, PPS Short-Term Insurance and Profmed medical aid that they hold over and above their PPS Life Risk Products.



Looking ahead, Smit says that it is impossible to make firm predictions for 2021 as the pandemic continues to evolve, and the long-term impact thereof is not yet known. A certainty is that the effects of COVID-19 will continue to be a market disruptor and a creator of opportunities. “We are bracing ourselves for further waves, but an aspect that works in our favour is that many professionals in the frontline in fighting the pandemic, particularly those in the health professions, were the first to be vaccinated. We are confident that the professionals for which PPS was founded will continue to show the significant role that they play in ensuring the health and well-being of South Africa’s citizens and economy.



“I want to extend PPS’s special thanks to our members for their boundless service to the community. South Africa is indebted to them. Thank you for your continued support and trust,” concludes Smit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-pps">About PPS</h2>



PPS boasts in excess of 150 000 members who enjoy access to a comprehensive suite of financial and healthcare products that are specifically tailored to meet the needs of graduate professionals.



PPS is the largest South African company of its kind, exclusively for graduate professionals, that still embraces an ethos of mutuality, which means that it exists solely for the benefit of its members. Thus, PPS members with qualifying products from PPS Insurance, PPS Investments, PPS Short-Term Insurance and Profmed share in the profits of PPS Insurance, PPS Investments, PPS Short-Term Insurance and PPS Healthcare Administrators via annual allocations to the unique PPS Profit-Share Account.



PPS membership provides access to the following tried, tested and trusted products and services: PPS Life Insurance, PPS Short-Term Insurance, PPS Financial Advisory, PPS Investments and Profmed Medical Scheme. Visit www.pps.co.za for more information. PPS is a Licensed Insurer and Financial Services Provider.

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PPS RESILIENCE PRODUCES SOUND PERFORMANCE IN UNPRECEDENTED YEAR

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At MiX Telematics, asset management does not just mean helping companies track their vehicles and monitor their fuel consumption. It also means using data from connected vehicles to keep drivers safe, to route alarms to the transporter’s control room in just thirteen seconds, and to dispatch ambulances or roadside assistance to injured or stranded customers in a matter of minutes. We spoke to Rubeena Moosa, the Software Development and Applications Manager heading up a team of 10 Trailblazers, about how they make operations run seamlessly behind the scenes.







<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="647" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Rubeena-Moosa-820x647.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-402224" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Rubeena-Moosa-820x647.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Rubeena-Moosa-300x237.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Rubeena-Moosa-768x606.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Rubeena-Moosa-1536x1212.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Rubeena-Moosa-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Rubeena Moosa</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tell-us-more-about-your-role-at-mix-telematics">Tell us more about your role at MiX Telematics</h2>



I manage applications design and development, high-level architecture and solutions. I have a small but powerful team who’ve all been at the company for more than seven years—we’re like a family at this point! We are very passionate about our work and MiX Telematics has given us the opportunity and tools to design, build, and create excellent solutions. It’s very exciting, and by combining technical expertise with a thorough understanding of our business strategy we’re able to design solutions to help the company achieve its business goals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-kind-of-customer-experience-does-mix-telematics-aspire-to-provide">What kind of customer experience does MiX Telematics aspire to provide?</h2>



MiX Telematics solutions are delivered as SaaS to three-quarters of a million subscribers spanning more than 120 countries across the globe. Insurance providers often require their policy holders to subscribe to a tracking and recovery service, which gives us even more reason to give them a valuable experience to prove it’s worth having.



Our main goal is to be there when our customers need us, and do it as quickly as possible. That could be when a driver hits their panic button in the event of a hijacking, if they’ve broken down at the side of the road and need assistance, or if they’ve told us their car was parked at the mall and we notice it’s actually heading off down the highway! To respond quickly to customers depends on working closely with a network of partners, such as emergency and recovery services. If a customer’s alarm goes off, we aim to have it routed to our control room for action in less than thirteen seconds.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="528" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_219477561-820x528.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-402235" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_219477561-820x528.jpeg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_219477561-300x193.jpeg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_219477561-768x494.jpeg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_219477561-1536x989.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_219477561-scaled.jpeg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Topdown view of a highway in Cape Town, South Africa</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-were-the-challenges-you-faced-around-data-management-and-integration">What were the challenges you faced around data management and integration?</h2>



We’re a leading technology company and we use the best software available. All those tools need to integrate seamlessly to give us a single source of data and greater efficiency across the business.



We knew we needed a new solution during a period of rapid growth. We wanted to launch a new product, but vehicle tracking relies on being able to process a huge amount of data, such as automatic vehicle location (AVL) data and impact data. Our legacy Enterprise Service Bus system was struggling to process 300 messages per second, so we knew it wasn’t going to be able to handle the volumes needed to achieve our growth goals.



Following a proof of concept, we selected MuleSoft to streamline data and integrations across the business. A representative flew out from London to help us build our architecture from scratch to enable the solution to scale in line with the business requirements. It’s a good thing they did because today, via our integration with Apache Kafka, we’re processing 4,000 messages per second, which is 18.6 billion a year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-smarter-integrations-help-streamline-the-day-to-day-running-of-the-business">How do smarter integrations help streamline the day-to-day running of the business?</h2>



With MuleSoft integrating our core systems together with vehicle data, we have a 360-degree visibility of the customer. When we collect device data, we already know who the customer is, which services they pay for, and whether they’re up-to-date with payments. If they’re consistently failing to pay, we can suspend their services.



We can also work more closely with our partners. For example, we share information with insurance companies via APIs rather than custom integrations, and in return they pass us leads. All these seamless integrations impact efficiency across the whole organisation, and we can even onboard new customers – including getting confirmation from their bank – in 7 to10 minutes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-are-you-using-machine-learning-and-ai">How are you using machine learning and AI?</h2>



Once we built our architecture, it was easy to start collecting large volumes of data. After two years, we had enough data in the system to start using machine learning to help identify false positive alarms &#8211; so we don’t flood the customer with messages for no reason. We also use AI for heatmaps for a graphical representation of the data and trend analysis.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="545" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_95222541-820x545.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-402234" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_95222541-820x545.jpeg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_95222541-300x199.jpeg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_95222541-768x510.jpeg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_95222541-1536x1021.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AdobeStock_95222541-scaled.jpeg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-the-biggest-benefits-of-mulesoft-for-you-and-your-company">What are the biggest benefits of MuleSoft for you and your company?</h2>



There’s a lot to love about MuleSoft and my experience has been wonderful. It’s much easier to maintain than our previous system, which has saved the company around $1 million USD already.



It’s easy to use, which means I can easily upskill my current developers without having to hire people with specialist skills, and it’s allowed us to drastically shorten our delivery times.



Seven years ago we did two big deployments a year, but today we can deploy up to three releases a week, so we’re helping the business to be much more agile and to continuously adapt and evolve to meet changing customer and employee expectations. We’ve also had great support, not just from the MuleSoft team but from the wider community of real users across the world.

Blue big rig semi truck with grille guard trabsporting frozen cargo in refrigerator semi trailer with skirt spoiler running on the straight road

How MiX Telematics is keeping drivers safer with connected data

Operating in Africa for technology convergence providers is not for the faint hearted. There is a plethora of different cultures, country stability scenarios, citizen needs and environments ranging from rainforests to deserts. What works in Angola is not necessarily going to work in Algeria.



That said, Africa’s markets are some of the fastest growing in the world due to an under-served population and both urbanisation and <a href="https://www.cnbcafrica.com/2018/how-increased-internet-connectivity-will-drive-development-in-nigeria/">connectivity</a> are growing at a rapid rate. Africa has been cited as the last continent where explosive exponential growth is possible.



Since 2003, MiRO has evolved its product offering and skillsets from what is suitable for South African conditions and it now has a solution for any environment and is aggressively pursuing the African market.



There is a mix of global and local in MiRO’s offering that makes it a one-stop-shop for next generation convergence technologies. MiRO is now one of the leading distributors of broadband wireless, networking, SDWAN, WiFi, IoT, security, VoIP and IP video products – and its African footprint continues to grow.



While MiRO partners include global brands such as <a href="https://miro.co.za/brand/48-tenda">Tenda</a>, Cambium Networks, Grandstream, <a href="https://miro.co.za/brand/27-tp-link">TP-Link,</a> Radwin, Ring, Siklu, <a href="https://miro.co.za/brand/31-ubiquiti">Ubiquiti Networks,</a> Uniview, MikroTik, and SIAE, South Africa has also proven its ability to be able to create and manufacture world-class products and services.



MiRO’s local portfolio includes cutting edge solutions from BFR Digital, Clearline, Deltec, Forbatt, Acconet and Mean Well.&nbsp; This combination of local and international partnerships means that MiRO can empower Africa’s service providers, technology integrators and resellers to connect consumers, the public and <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/private-sector.asp">private sectors</a> through its best-of-breed, cutting-edge solutions.



Knowledge of each environment is vital. There are still cultural differences, for example, embedded in certain regions, such as the manner in which genders converse and interact. There needs to be sensitivity and understanding to pair MiRO’s expert knowledge wisely with local service providers and their clients.



MiRO’s online ecommerce store has no such limitations. Anyone can log in and access the wealth of information available 24/7. This makes it easy and convenient for partners to purchase online as and when they need to.



Using <a href="http://www.miro.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">miro.co.za</a> users can build their own quotes, view stock availability at all the branches and apply real-time order tracking to accurately plan inventory and installations. Supporting this, the MiRO technical and sales team is just a click away, wherever a user may be.



Knowledge is power and a core MiRO value is to put the power of knowledge in the hands of its clients. This is what led to establishing MiRO Academy as the vehicle through which the company could meet the need for top-notch, comprehensive IP convergence training.



MiRO Academy is an online learning platform where students, individual and business professionals can register for courses. The Academy means access to smart tutorials and hosts an ever-growing range of custom-developed training courses. There is zero-to-hero basic training on the range of networking technologies, as well as internationally certified training from multi-national vendors.



Free webinars on product and technology developments are also readily available on MiRO Academy so any of MiRO’s users can remain a step ahead through continuous learning, as and when it suits them. Thousands of IT professionals have already gained the knowledge to embrace and implement the spectrum of exciting new technologies via both MiRO’s instructor-led classroom training and the online Academy.



Unlock the convergence and communications wealth of Africa by taking advantage of the products and services MiRO offers. Visit <a href="https://miro.co.za/">miro.co.za</a>.

CNBCAfrica Miro image

Going boldly into Africa

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="258" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Article-image-820x258.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-398015" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Article-image-820x258.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Article-image-300x94.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Article-image-768x241.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Article-image-1536x483.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Article-image.jpg 1910w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



by: Nick Treunicht, Customer Engineer, Digicloud Africa 



Let’s start with a seemingly audacious statement. Google is no longer competing with the best. Google is the best. Google has redefined collaboration with Google Workspace. Leading companies from around the world are tapping into Google Workspace to transform how they work – and it is delivering measurable results. This may be a bold opinion, but here are some facts to support it.



Today, Google is helping over 6 million businesses move towards a modern way of working, knowing that now more than ever, remote teams need tools that work even harder to make life a little easier. That’s why Google is introducing Google Workspace: everything you need to get work done, now, in one place. It brings together the communication and collaboration tools that users are already familiar with from G Suite – messaging, meetings, docs and more – in a thoughtfully connected way.



The way we work today is so far removed from how we worked at the beginning of this millennium. Attaching files to e-mails and running our own e-mail server infrastructure. Using our mailboxes to find files that were attached to e-mails. Trying to identify which version of a document is the right/current version.



Google first started revolutionising the technology industry with Gmail. If there is one thing that we have all come to know and love about Gmail, it is that it’s always up and running, never failing you when you need it. Since then, Google has built an entire productivity suite on top of Gmail with product releases and incremental changes to those products. Add to that Google’s ability to consistently push feature updates to its suite of cloud collaboration tools, which has made even competitors rethink their collaboration strategies.



Organisations that were using G Suite would have seen the consistent pace of feature updates over the last year or two, culminating in the launch of Google Workspace last month.A complete interface overhaul of Gmail, Google Calendar and Google Groups to name a few. A retirement of Google Hangouts, which has been replaced with Google Meet for video calling and Google Chat for everything else. The new version of Google Chat virtually makes competitive messaging platforms redundant, especially with the latest addition of Rooms in Chat. This new feature gives users one space to discuss and collaborate on projects, all without having to leave Gmail. Advanced Rooms in e-mail enables employees to assign tasks related to projects, share project files and folders and collaborate on Docs without having to switch between tabs.



It’s not just the rich features available to consumers, but also the deep integration of Google’s products into other third-party apps like Salesforce, Draw.io or Zoho, to name a few.



G Suite started off as a variety of separate productivity tools, whereas now, Google Workspace has morphed into one single workspace where you can get everything done. It made sense for Google to redefine the platform.



Add to that how work has changed in 2020. Version control for documents and collaboration from anywhere in the world has become paramount. We simply cannot keep doing the same things in the same ways and expect a digitised workforce. We cannot expect our colleagues to work smart without smart tools.



Google commissioned Forrester Consulting to quantify the business benefits and cost savings of moving to Google Workspace. This report (“The Total Economic Impact Of Google Workspace”, February 2020) revealed that Google Workspace delivers value in four key areas:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Revenue growth</li><li>Employee efficiency</li><li>Risk mitigation</li><li>IT cost savings</li></ul>



For users who want all their e-mails and documents backed up to the Google Cloud – all the time; with nothing but a browser and login details; with no need to install software for video conferencing (unlike where someone has to be the host, using their laptop hardware to try and host an online video call on other platforms); with just one single link with access to everything you need – Google Workspace is your answer.



Digicloud’s vote for 2021 is a vote for change and continual progress, it’s a vote for Google Workspace.



About Digicloud Africa



A proudly African business established to enable access to innovative cloud solutions through a robust network of resellers, Digicloud Africa (Pty) Ltd has been designed to support Google Cloud and has been appointed as the Reseller Enablement Partner of Google Cloud Platform and Google Workspace products in Africa. We take great pride in our partnership with Google and strive to grow our footprint of specialised cloud resellers throughout Africa.&nbsp; Together, we aim to digitally transform businesses in Africa.

shutterstock_426836902

Uncover the business value of Google Workspace

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="408" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Northern-Cape-SA-International-Logo-820x408.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-398045" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Northern-Cape-SA-International-Logo-820x408.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Northern-Cape-SA-International-Logo-300x149.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Northern-Cape-SA-International-Logo-768x382.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Northern-Cape-SA-International-Logo-1536x765.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Northern-Cape-SA-International-Logo-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Majestically reaching over 360 000 sq kilometres from the world-renowned Kalahari Desert to the arid plains of the Karoo, the Northern Cape, South Africa offers visitors a unique Southern Africa holiday experience.  With its open spaces, friendly people, rich history and unique cultural diversity, this land of the extreme, promises an extraordinary tourism destination.  Come and experience personally! Here are ten tantalising reasons to choose The Northern Cape as your Southern Africa leisure destination :











<h1 class="wp-block-heading"></h1>







<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> 1. Unique flavor and flair</h2>



The Northern Cape is a truly remarkable holiday destination. Explore the unique flavor of the province with its unique combination of ancient Africa with an overlay of confident democracy. Walk barefoot on the land of the ancestors, proud of its roots and enthusiastic about the future, creating, solving challenges and greeting the world with a wide, warm smile.







<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Unforgettable, enriching experiences</h2>



Do not miss the opportunity to view night skies ablaze with a million stars at Sutherland, or at&nbsp;!Xaus Lodge, situated in the <a>!Ae!Hai Kalahari World Heritage an</a> international Dark Sky Sanctuary, one of only 10 such sanctuaries world -wide. Go hunting for fossils in the Karoo or searching for San rock art deep in the caves of the Diamond Fields, or experiencing the world’s richest floral offering in Namakwa, camping deep in the bush surrounded by wildlife and the famed black-maned lion of the Green Kalahari, or kyaking down the mighty Orange River, the Northern Cape is more than an adventure, it’s an enriching life experience.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="546" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Tswalu-Tarkuni-people-relax_HW-2-820x546.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-398047" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Tswalu-Tarkuni-people-relax_HW-2-820x546.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Tswalu-Tarkuni-people-relax_HW-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Tswalu-Tarkuni-people-relax_HW-2-768x511.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Tswalu-Tarkuni-people-relax_HW-2-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Tswalu-Tarkuni-people-relax_HW-2-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>







<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> 3. Value for luxury</h2>



The inherent warm hospitality of the people of the Northern Cape makes visitors feel like celebrities when they come to this vast province.  They can stay in the luxurious establishments, be pampered with spa treatment, dine on fabulous food and wine and afford all those once-in-a-lifetime experiences they’ve been longing to try. Not only will you have an excellent rate of exchange, but our facilities, activities and service equal outstanding value- so you can do more for your money. We call it value for luxury.







<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. Special Occasions, Weddings and Honeymoons</h2>



The Northern Cape’s un-spoilt nature and breathtaking scenery with deserts, rivers, beaches, mountains and forests provide the perfect backdrop for the wedding of your wildest dreams. That is why the province is fast becoming one of the world’s most desirable and sought-after wedding and honeymoon destinations







<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. Rich, cultural encounters</h2>



The distinct cultural groups that make up the Northern Cape are as rich as the country’s history. Meet the oldest human inhabitants of Africa, the ‡Khomani San Bushmen at Askham or the indigenous Setswana and Nama in Namakwa and the Diamond Fields. Visitors to the Northern Cape have ample chance to immerse themselves in these unique cultures through exploring cultural villages and arts and crafts markets, indulging in local cuisine at township restaurants, watching traditional dances and ceremonies, listening to real stories at interactive museums and talking to our people, who are willing to teach their customs and phrases to our guests. It’s the best way to experience the heartbeat of the province and to take a bit of the Northern Cape with them when you leave.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ssimg_689-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-398046" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ssimg_689-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ssimg_689-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ssimg_689-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ssimg_689-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ssimg_689-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">6. Leading family adventure destination</h2>



With unexpected adventures around every corner, the Northern Cape is arguably the leading family adventure destination of Southern Africa. It’s all about pushing individual boundaries, personal growth and reconnecting with each other. For some, adventure is going on a walking trail, a hot-air balloon ride or tasting a foreign cuisine.  For others, adventure is captured in an adrenaline rush by traversing the rapids of the mighty Orange River in a kayak or leaping off a mountain or waterfall. Family activities range from game safaris, bird watching and leisure hikes to food tours, museum visits and archaeological discoveries. No matter the skill, inclination or interest, there is an adventure to thrill all. Combined with our beautiful weather and spectacular scenery, it’s a heady mix!







<h2 class="wp-block-heading">7. Natural beauty and wildlife</h2>



The Northern Cape is unquestionably South Africa’s most beautiful and natural province. For the active, it’s an ideal environment for exploration and adventure. Visitors are hard-pressed to choose between our two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, two Transfrontier Parks, the Kgalagadi and the çAi-çAis Richtersveld with its red and golden sand dunes or any one of the other four national parks, six provincial nature reserves and numerous private game reserves. Share the intimate bush knowledge of a Nama or ‡Khomani San Bushmen guide and tracker. The Northern Cape’s natural beauty is enhanced by it’s an enigmatic wildlife. From the small five to the big five, watching wild animals at dose range is something truly unforgettable. There are walking, horseback, 4&#215;4 routes, little five and many more safaris to incorporate in your trip.  The province is also home to two of the largest rivers in South Africa and three legendary deserts.  Each one of the 5 regions will capture the imaginations of those who dare to explore its rugged mountains, endless flatlands and undulating dunes.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Xaus-Lodge-Dark-Sky-Sanctuary-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-398048" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Xaus-Lodge-Dark-Sky-Sanctuary-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Xaus-Lodge-Dark-Sky-Sanctuary-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Xaus-Lodge-Dark-Sky-Sanctuary-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Xaus-Lodge-Dark-Sky-Sanctuary-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Xaus-Lodge-Dark-Sky-Sanctuary-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Our annual BEYOND EXPEDITIONS Adventure, driven by ISUZU (SA), via five desert regions, including Namaqua West Coast, Richtersveld, Kgalagadi, Namib-Naukluft and Augrabies, in Namibia and South Africa, RSA</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">8. Great weather</h2>



The Northern Cape weather makes it a perfect year-round destination. The mild temperatures of the months July to October are perfect to visit the Northern Cape and escape the cold winters of the rest of the country and world. In summer the excellent weather invites visitors to enjoy the outdoors, play golf, indulge in massages under open skies, hike, walk, canoe, or have an open fire dinner or go on stargazing safaris.  Visitors can choose from a variety of outdoor adventure activities and seasonal experiences and take advantage of the excellent weather.







<h2 class="wp-block-heading">9. A firm favorite for incentives</h2>



Due to our great weather, diverse cultures, adventure credentials, historic Freedom Struggle, lively urban rhythms, award-winning food and wine, luxury accommodation, natural wonders, spirit of Ubuntu, fascinating wildlife and welcoming nature, the Northern Cape has become a firm favorite for domestic and international incentive travelers. Build memories to last a lifetime with an unforgettable, life-enriching trip to the Northern Cape.  







<h2 class="wp-block-heading">10. The Floral Kingdom of the Namakwa</h2>



<a href="http://www.travelground.com/accommodation-in/namaqualand" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Namaqualand</a>&nbsp;is a stunning section in the Northern Cape, famous for its 6,000 plant species, 250 bird species, 132 reptile and amphibian species, and 78 mammal species. An astonishing 40% of the species found here are endemic – they do not exist anywhere else on earth.



Keep an eye out for the Namaqualand famed flowers from July to early October when the region is transformed into a kaleidoscope of color with the arrival of the flower season! Start in the capital of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.travelground.com/accommodation-in/springbok" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Springbok</a> and visit the Goegap Nature Reserve where you can explore the Hester Malan Wildflower Garden in a guided open truck tour. The 103,000 hectare Namaqua National Park is well worth a visit.&nbsp;



Akkerendam Nature Reserve in Calvinia is a proclaimed bird sanctuary with 10 floral species unique to the Hantamberg area with two lovely walking trails. Just outside Nieuwoudtville a must see is the Quiver Tree Forest and the Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve with 533 plant species and extravagant displays of wild flowers during the months of July to September.



For more information do visit <a href="http://www.experiencenortherncape.com">www.experiencenortherncape.com</a> or contact <a href="mailto:marketing@experiencenortherncape.com">marketing@experiencenortherncape.com</a>



Social media Platforms



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/NorthernCapeTourism">www.facebook.com/NorthernCapeTourism</a></li><li>Twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/NorthernCapeSA">www.twitter.com/NorthernCapeSA</a></li><li>Instagram: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/northerncapetourism">www.instagram.com/northerncapetourism</a></li><li>YouTube: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/northerncapetourism">www.youtube.com/northerncapetourism</a></li><li>Hashtag #ExperienceNorthernCape</li></ul>

Augrabies Falls NP_Landscape_Viewpoint

Leisurely pursuits in the Northern Cape, South Africa

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Murray-Gardiner-MD-Bluecode-Africa-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-394212" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Murray-Gardiner-MD-Bluecode-Africa-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Murray-Gardiner-MD-Bluecode-Africa-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Murray-Gardiner-MD-Bluecode-Africa-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Murray-Gardiner-MD-Bluecode-Africa-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Murray-Gardiner-MD-Bluecode-Africa.jpg 1365w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption>Murray Gardiner, MD, Bluecode Africa</figcaption></figure>



Population growth in Africa tends to outpace that of the rest of the world. In fact, by 2050 the population will likely have grown to 2 billion people, versus the rest of the world that expects flat or declining population numbers. This is particularly pertinent when looking at bank account ownership, with numbers still as high as 1.7 billion (31 percent of all adults globally), down from 2 billion unbanked adults in 2014, covering those without either a traditional bank account held by a financial institution or one provided by a mobile money provider.



In high-income Western market economies, adults are almost universally “banked” says a 2017<a href="https://globalfindex.worldbank.org/"> </a><a href="https://globalfindex.worldbank.org/">Global Findex</a> study conducted by the World Bank, versus the unbanked (many of whom are women) who reside predominantly in developing nations. To put the gender disparity into perspective, about two-thirds of the one-fifth of unbanked adults in Kenya, as just one national example, are women. The business world also shows a disparity, with the major corporations on our continent being formally banked across the board, versus the many small and micro businesses who tend to run cash-based operations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-informal-sector-inclusion">INFORMAL SECTOR INCLUSION</h2>



In times when unlocking economic growth on the continent is a priority to governments and private institutions alike, ways need to be found to include this essential informal shadow economy composed of cash-based businesses. These are significant, reveals the<a href="https://www.ilo.org/global/about-the-ilo/newsroom/news/WCMS_627189/lang--en/index.htm#:~:text=In%20Africa%2C%2085.8%20per%20cent%20of%20employment%20is%20informal.&amp;text=The%20report%20shows%20that%2093,women%20(58.1%20per%20cent)."> </a><a href="https://www.ilo.org/global/about-the-ilo/newsroom/news/WCMS_627189/lang--en/index.htm#:~:text=In%20Africa%2C%2085.8%20per%20cent%20of%20employment%20is%20informal.&amp;text=The%20report%20shows%20that%2093,women%20(58.1%20per%20cent).">ILO</a>, as they are thought to provide as much as 85.5 percent of employment in some countries.



Experience has taught us that financial institutions can only “see” clients through data and digital transparency from transaction accounts, mobile payments, and bill-paying. Unfortunately, informal sector businesses are generally not visible to the formal sector because they are mostly cash-based. This impedes not only the ability to tap into the informal sector’s value (due to a lack of digital records), but also the consequent ability for financial institutions to offer the affordable banking products needed for small and micro-business to thrive. The financial institutions that find a way to digitize informal sector payments will increase the size of their addressable market and will benefit from first mover advantage in the most rapidly growing market for financial services in the world.



“Research suggests that digitising payments can improve their efficiency by increasing the speed of payments, and reducing the cost of disbursing and receiving them,” say the authors of the World Bank’s<a href="https://globalfindex.worldbank.org/sites/globalfindex/files/2018-04/2017%20Findex%20full%20report_0.pdf"> </a><a href="https://globalfindex.worldbank.org/sites/globalfindex/files/2018-04/2017%20Findex%20full%20report_0.pdf">Global Findex Report</a>. In fact, shifting payments from cash into digital can have a range of unexpected benefits, beyond the obvious for the bank. “It can also enhance the security of payments and thus lower the incidence of associated crime. And disbursing payments through digital channels rather than cash has been shown to increase transparency and reduce corruption,” the report continues. It goes on to list an additional benefit of shifting to digital payment systems as resulting in substantial increases in saving behaviour among new account owners.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-following-the-leaders">FOLLOWING THE LEADERS</h2>



In Ghana, for example, a countrywide standard has been offered in QR code payments, which simplifies the payment process for merchants and customers alike. Just announced, the country’s EMVCo QR Standard for universal QR customer push payments allows every merchant to be identified and registered with a static QR code – which any consumer can then scan and send to their bank in order to directly pay the merchant. This system streamlines Africa’s usual mobile person-to-person (P2P) arrangement that is widely promoted by mobile network operators (MNO) such as Safaricom’s Mpesa.



The system depends on all banks in Ghana being connected to an Instant EFT switch that has a clearing and settlement agreement with the national payment gateway. This is part of a general trend to reduce friction for digital payments and afford merchants the opportunity to accept payment alternatives, connected directly to the bank account or any other consumer funding source, thereby avoiding cards and the costly infrastructure associated with card payments. Many other nations, which are investing in the digital payments arena, can be expected to follow suit.



African markets differ significantly from those of offshore nations and are also wary of becoming dependent on the likes of Visa and MasterCard. While these successful American card-payment institutions are globally recognised and adopted in developed nations – along with their numerous fintech partners and conversion to virtual cards – African nations require a higher level of autonomy, along with tailored solutions with which their own markets, merchants and consumers can feel secure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-in-mobile-we-trust">IN MOBILE WE TRUST</h2>



The challenge for the private sector and governments in African countries is to show potential customers that the available cash-based alternatives, in which they have been investing, are “safer, more affordable and more transparent”, reveals World Bank research. If these payments can take place via a mobile phone, without needing a bank card, that seems first prize. In Kenya, for example, less than 50 percent of account owners have a debit card and, among those who do, only about one-third make use of it for direct purchases.



In fact, mobile remains the leading payment technology on the continent, with as many as 19 percent of adults (30 percent of account owners) making at least one financial transaction over a 12-month period – using a mobile money account, their mobile phone, or the internet. Indeed, more than 10% of all adults in countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Zambia and Uganda have reported receiving agricultural payments into an account (in most cases a mobile money account) over the past 12 months.



But cash is still king, with the typical economically active African adult making, on average, 1 500 payments each year – almost all of which are small and relate to transport, food, and other everyday necessities. However, this reliance on cash can be overturned by an interoperable universal payment platform, with feature-rich interactions, valuable merchant support and sought-after financial services.



It is time to pivot and bring digital transparency to the informal sector. Once trust is gained, such digital offerings will sweep the dependency on cash aside as we march steadily into Africa’s Fourth Industrial Revolution.







About Bluecode:



Bluecode is a mobile payment solution that combines cashless payments via smartphones with value-added services and enables payments with merchant and banking apps. Founded in Europe, Bluecode has now expanded into Africa. Bluecode Africa is taking mobile payments into markets where its value as a technology payment service and scheme can make a significant difference for retailers, SMMEs and in the everyday lives of consumers. Bluecode Africa is focused on driving economic growth in the productive economy by unlocking opportunity and business potential with digital transparency. For more information:<a href="http://www.bluecodeafrica.com"> </a><a href="http://www.bluecodeafrica.com">www.bluecodeafrica.com</a>&nbsp;

Native Article 1 Hearder Bluecode (1)

Op-ed: How Africa’s unbanked stand to score from digital advancement

Facebook Africa Year in Review

Imagine a secluded getaway, with breathtaking panoramic views of crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. Rediscover Maldives &#8211; a safe haven where the unique geography lends itself naturally to social and physical distancing. With 1,190 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, this factor alone makes for a wonderful reason as to why you should pack your bags and head to the island nation.



Adding to this is the one-island-one-resort concept, which Maldives is famous for. This simply means that resorts are established on one island, ensuring privacy for the guests. Besides staff and tourists, there are no extra guests living at these resorts.&nbsp;



The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) awarded the Maldives with the Safe Travels Stamp in September 2020 for the enhanced health and safety measures in line with global safety protocols. It is the world’s first ever global safety and hygiene stamp for Travel &amp; Tourism endorsed by the World Tourism Organization and more than 200 travel companies.&nbsp;



On 27 November 2020, the Maldives was awarded the World’s Leading Destination in 2020 by the World Travel Awards &#8211; a historic win for the island nation.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignfull size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1110" height="741" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2-1110x741.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-393912" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2-1110x741.jpg 1110w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remember-to-check-the-travel-guidelines-before-you-travel-to-the-maldives">Remember to check the travel guidelines before you travel to the Maldives</h2>



On 15 July 2020, the Maldives reopened its borders to all international tourists where all nationalities can enjoy 30 days with a free visa upon arrival.&nbsp;



To enter the country, make sure a confirmed booking from a tourist establishment registered with the Ministry of Tourism in the Maldives is in place as this is mandatory. A complete list of opened tourist establishments along with other tentative reopening dates are available on the <a href="https://visitmaldives.com/en/covid19-updates">Visit Maldives</a> website.&nbsp;



An online Health Declaration form is required to be submitted by all tourists 24 hours prior to departure. This is available through the<a href="https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/"> IMUGA portal</a>. All tourists are also required to have a negative PCR test taken 96 hrs prior to the departure to Maldives. The result should also be submitted through the <a href="https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/">IMUGA portal</a> within 24 hrs prior to the departure from the first port of embarkation en route to the Maldives.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="680" height="1024" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/5-680x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-393915" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/5-680x1024.jpg 680w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/5-199x300.jpg 199w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/5-768x1156.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/5-1020x1536.jpg 1020w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/5-scaled.jpg 1360w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 680px) 100vw, 680px" /></figure>



In addition, local authorities encourage travelers to install the TraceEkee app (available on Google Play and AppStore) on their smartphones upon arrival. This is an online app introduced by the Health Protection Authority of the Maldives to mitigate community spread of covid19 by using bluetooth signals to detect encounters with other users. It helps to proactively identify positive cases faster and provide guidance and necessary measures at the earliest.



For more information: <a href="https://visitmaldives.s3.amazonaws.com/Gw16xrYE/ybitcuhe.pdf">Visit Maldives</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-travel-from-one-island-to-another-easily-hop-onto-a-liveaboard">Travel from one island to another easily, hop onto a liveaboard!</h2>



The Maldives Split Stays are now available for all types of tourist accommodations &#8211; from resorts and guesthouses to liveaboards! There are many options to choose from since the country is not solely dedicated to resort-goers; it offers a number of options catering to a diverse range of preferences.&nbsp;



What is a ‘Split Stay’ you may ask? This allows tourists to experience their stay at more than one tourist accommodation in the Maldives and enable them to have a longer vacation. ‘Split Stays’ are permitted only between all tourist establishments that meet all the compulsory requirements under the split stay guideline by the Health Protection Authority (HPA) of the Maldives. Requests for approval of ‘split stays’ should be submitted to the Ministry of Tourism two days prior to the travelling date.&nbsp;



For the approved of list of tourist facilities: <a href="https://visitmaldives.com/en/covid19-updates">Visit Maldives Covid19 updates</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="767" height="1024" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/4-767x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-393914" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/4-767x1024.jpg 767w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/4-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/4-768x1025.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/4-1151x1536.jpg 1151w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/4-scaled.jpg 1535w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 767px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-get-enrolled-and-earn-points-through-maldives-border-miles">Get enrolled and earn points through Maldives Border Miles</h2>



The first of its kind loyalty programme for tourists, the Maldives Border Miles is an initiative by the Maldives Immigration together with the Ministry of Tourism, Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). The program will be launched in December 2020.



The three-tier loyalty programme is based on a point system for the number of visits, duration of stay and the occasion of visit. If you are traveling to Maldives as a tourist, you can enroll as a member of Maldives Border Miles. Points will be rewarded if you stay in a registered tourist facility and if you stay at least 3 nights in Maldives



For more information: <a href="https://visitmaldives.com/en/news/a-brief-introduction-to-maldives-border-miles#:~:text=The%20Maldives%20Border%20Miles%20is,be%20launched%20in%20December%202020.">Maldives Border Miles</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-allied-inbound-maldives-first-covid-19-insurance-for-tourists">Allied Inbound: Maldives’ First COVID-19 Insurance for Tourists</h2>



The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with Allied Insurance, has also introduced the first COVID-19 Travel Insurance in Maldives. This policy covers charges for services including isolation costs, medical treatment and transportation costs to isolation/medical facilities and consists of two plans; “Allied Inbound” and “Allied Inbound Plus.” The package covers 7 or more days and can be purchased before arriving in Maldives through the <a href="https://myallied.mv/type/inbound-allied/new">&nbsp;Allied Insurance website</a>.



Choose this plan prior to your journey and enjoy your holiday in the Maldives with assurance of safety and peace of mind.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-393911" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/1-scaled.jpg 1365w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>

Maldives: The perfect island getaway

By Murray Gardiner, MD, Bluecode Africa



As retailers gear up for the busy holiday shopping season, they’re facing a multitude of risks. On the one hand, there’s the resurgence of COVID-19 in South Africa and Nigeria while Europe has reinstated lockdown restrictions. With the acceleration of e-commerce during this period, in-person shopping with cards is consequently an unattractive option (even more so than it already was). On the other hand, with increased demand for online payments, comes the rising tide of <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/ios/news/experts-warn-of-cyber-crime-surge-this-festive-season-084ccfe2-e285-41b7-815c-c203636bdb7a">cybercrime and</a> card fraud.



The solution, on both sides of the spectrum, is for businesses to embrace digital payments (off the card rails) that can be secured with anonymity and do not require encrypted customer information and card authentication processes. Merchant-centric payments that provide digital transparency without compromising privacy, while driving sales and empowering businesses of all sizes are needed. It has never been more important to push financial inclusion for businesses and drive market momentum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-trouble-with-cash">The trouble with cash</h2>



At present, cash is still king in Africa. According to <a href="https://www.cashmatters.org/blog/african-cash-report-2018/">one report</a>, cash accounts for over 50% of transaction value in South Africa. This is despite South Africa having one of the most mature banking and payment spaces and the deepest card penetration rates on the continent. <a href="https://mofep.gov.gh/sites/default/files/acts/Ghana_Cashlite_Roadmap.pdf">Another study, by Ghana’s Ministry of Finance</a>, indicated that 99% of all payments in that country are made in cash.



Despite the growth of digital payments, cash isn’t going away. In fact, a report from <a href="https://www.currencyassociation.org/userfiles/files/7_%20Future%20of%20Cash%20Africa%202018-V4-sml(1).pdf">The Currency Association</a> shows that the value of cash in circulation grew steadily in six major African countries between 2008 and 2017.



That’s understandable. Cash is easy to understand. Cash is trusted. You hand over a set amount and get the goods or services you desire. It’s also so culturally entrenched that it doesn’t require learning new behaviours or merchants learning to “trust” that somehow their valuable goods are being exchanged for money in an account somewhere.



Despite its ubiquity and standing as the most deeply entrenched incumbent payment mechanism, there are serious downsides to cash. Aside from the cost implications and security considerations, cash doesn’t provide transparency to the bank for access to better financial services nor does it facilitate access to relevant value-added services which can provide business-growth incentives.



Cash is opaque by nature, which makes it difficult for a bank to understand a business. That opacity effectively ‘locks out’ small businesses from most of the benefits of the formal economy.&nbsp; Although many businesses are considered to be “included” for having a transaction account, cash-based businesses present too much cost and risk to be banked with higher value financial services and credit.



Digital transparency is essential to reduce transaction costs for the business and for the banker to understand how to invest and support their merchant client-base with financial products and services.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-securing-e-commerce">Securing e-commerce</h2>



Physical merchants aren’t the only ones facing threats this festive season. While 2020 may have accelerated e-commerce sales, especially in emerging markets, it also made it ‘target-rich’ for cybercriminals. Imperva’s <a href="https://www.imperva.com/resources/resource-library/white-papers/the-state-of-security-within-e-commerce/">State of Security Within e-Commerce report</a> found that e-commerce websites experienced much higher levels of cyber-attacks than other businesses. Retailers and app providers have also become vulnerable to losing sales to cumbersome card security processes and consumers have become vulnerable to phishing scams and other fraudulent activity.



Most cyber-attacks are conducted with the aim of getting hold of sensitive customer data. And while the website itself might not hold that data, there’s every chance that its payment provider does. In the event of a breach, however, that will likely make little difference as far as the customer is concerned.



Any online business associated with a data breach will suffer major reputational damage, which can be incredibly difficult to come back from. Breaches are also expensive, with the average breach costing in excess of 40 million in SA Rand value.



But while it’s impossible to completely avoid cybercrime, there are steps that online retailers can take. The right digital payment provider will, for example, give businesses a secure anonymous token-based, hassle-free click and pay solution, where no customer data is associated with the payment. Where there is no data there is nothing to steal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secure-transparent-inclusive">Secure, transparent, inclusive</h2>



Given that digital payments can provide such levels of security both to traditionally cash-based smaller businesses and to online retailers, it would make sense for them to adopt the technology en-masse. After all, with so much at stake this year, the imperative for merchants to reduce risk on all fronts has never been higher.



But it shouldn’t just be merchants trying to understand, and find, the right digital payment provider. Financial institutions should also encourage and incentivise merchants to adopt these technologies and find for themselves an off-ramp from legacy card-based payment schemes.



Doing so won’t just make consumers and businesses more secure at a time when they both need it most, it will also empower businesses to be more efficient and profitable in the long run. That’s the most important form of security there is.



About Bluecode:



Bluecode is a mobile payment solution that combines cashless payments via smartphones with value-added services and enables payments with merchant and banking apps. Founded in Europe, Bluecode has now expanded into Africa. Bluecode Africa is taking mobile payments into markets where its value as a technology payment service and scheme can make a significant difference for retailers, SMMEs and in the everyday lives of consumers. Bluecode Africa is focused on driving economic growth in the productive economy by unlocking opportunity and business potential with digital transparency. For more information: <a href="http://www.bluecodeafrica.com">www.bluecodeafrica.com</a>&nbsp;

Native Article 1 Hearder Bluecode

Why digital payments are the more secure alternative

Harlequin2

Harlequin Group Set Out The Path To Profitable Joint Ventures in Ghana’s Energy Sector

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-year-new-opportunities">New year, new opportunities</h2>



To describe 2020 as a challenging year feels like an understatement, to say the least. While US companies began the year with uncertainty over continuing tensions between China and the United States, by March a new, wholly unexpected series of challenges emerged as a result of COVID-19. As we look ahead to a new year, the question on many businesses’ minds will be how to build greater resilience and where to look for growth opportunities that position them strongly for the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;



A <a href="https://ideas-and-action.foleon.com/sc/borderlessbanking/borderless-business/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent survey</a> of CFOs and senior finance leaders in Europe and Americas by Standard Chartered highlighted that growth outside of the home market is a key focus for companies right now. However, entering a new market is never an easy undertaking. Cultural differences, contrasting operational styles, and mismatched regulatory expectations often present significant challenges. These may be some of the reasons why US businesses do not rank Africa as highly as other regions. Just 13% of those surveyed listed Africa as a top three potential growth market and only 2% ranked it as their first choice. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="918" height="1024" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jeremy-Amias--918x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-393043" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jeremy-Amias--918x1024.png 918w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jeremy-Amias--269x300.png 269w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jeremy-Amias--768x857.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jeremy-Amias--1377x1536.png 1377w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Jeremy-Amias-.png 1513w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 918px) 100vw, 918px" /><figcaption>Jeremy Amias, Vice Chairman, Americas, Standard Chartered </figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-in-the-right-direction">Moving in the right direction</h2>



Investors are cautious, despite the potential upside of investing in Africa. The ‘Africa Rising’ rhetoric is well known and the demographics speak for themselves: a young, dynamic workforce comprising over 20% of the world’s youth population, and a combined population predicted to reach 1.5 billion people by 2025. But alongside this, Africa also has a reputation as somewhere it is difficult to do business &#8211; indeed, only two African markets, Mauritius and Rwanda, currently feature in the Top 50 in the World Bank’s 2020 Ease of Doing Business rankings (although it is worth recognising that no Latin American nations feature in this group at all).



“Currently” is an important word to note here. We are on the cusp of large-scale change that could make accessing Africa a much more compelling proposition for US companies. Chief among them is the upcoming implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Launching in January 2021, the AfCFTA will be a single market with a population of 1.2 billion people and a combined GDP of over USD2 trillion according to the United Nations (although other sources estimate it could be as high as USD3.4 trillion). While its core focus is greater intra-Africa collaboration, the creation of this bloc will make the region as a whole more competitive and accessible to outside investors by ushering in wide-ranging reforms that improve transparency, reduce red tape, and simplify customs procedures.



Reforms in these areas should facilitate greater trade and investment opportunities between Africa and the rest of the world. Even before the AfCFTA comes into force, we have already seen the positive impact that greater transparency can deliver, and the trade corridors that can be opened up when higher standards are adopted. In February 2020, Namibia became the first country in Africa to export red meat to the United States, the result of more than fifteen years of negotiations over safety and logistics. Thanks to this landmark agreement &#8211; part of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) &#8211; Namibia can now tap into the substantial and lucrative US export market, and can expect to see export volumes of beef climb from 860 tonnes this year to around 5,000 tonnes by 2025.



When bilateral arrangements of any kind are successful, they lay the groundwork for greater cooperation in the future. As formal negotiations continue between Kenya and the United States to create a bilateral Free Trade Area (in what would be the first such arrangement between the US and a country in sub-Saharan Africa), there are opportunities for the United States to build closer ties directly with particular African nations as well as the AfCFTA bloc as a whole.&nbsp;



As the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats. If the hoped-for reforms &#8211; whether they stem from the AfCFTA or bilateral agreements &#8211; can be implemented as planned in the coming months and years, the resulting improvements to ease of doing business should help endear the region to potential investors and create opportunities for African exporters and American importers alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-mining-minerals-to-mining-data">From mining minerals to mining data</h2>



Trade corridors are only part of the story. Foreign Direct Investment also offers mutually beneficial opportunities for investors and industry looking to expand. Despite the pandemic, we have just seen the largest FDI investment into Africa to date when in July, Total SA announced USD14.9 billion of project financing for Mozambique LNG, the country’s first onshore liquified natural gas project. This deal included USD5 billion of financing from the Export Import Bank of the United States, alongside other Export Credit Agencies, 19 commercial banks, and the African Development Bank, and represents a resurgence in FDI flows into Africa which have remained largely muted since 2014.&nbsp;



Oil and gas, natural resources, and precious minerals have long been synonymous with Africa, but the continent represents much more than a supply of raw materials to be extracted. In recent years, many international corporates have recognised the value Africa has to offer when it comes to technology and innovation, from its young, tech-savvy population to its ability to leapfrog outdated infrastructure by moving straight to digital, as we have seen with mobile payments solutions such as M-PESA.&nbsp;



As Africa’s population soars in the coming decades, its emerging middle class will grow as well &#8211; an audience of consumers who will want and expect the same access to online services and connectivity enjoyed elsewhere in the world. The big players in global tech are already investing to capitalise on this growing audience and demand. On the infrastructure side, in South Africa, Microsoft has opened hyper-scale datacenters with a focus on cloud-based business innovation. Google is currently in the process of branching its Equiano underwater cable to extend connectivity to more countries across the West of Africa, while Facebook is building a 37,000km cable around Africa which aims to deliver almost three times the current subsea network capacity.



And investing in talent is also a key focus. Google’s Grow with Google and Digital Skills for Africa programmes aim to help young people develop skills in areas like data science and cloud computing. Microsoft has launched the Africa Development Center in Kenya and Nigeria which will see local engineering talent using data science, AI, and machine learning to drive innovation in sectors including FinTech and AgriTech. Facebook also has its sights set on Nigeria, with a new office planned to open in Lagos in 2021 to foster home-grown engineering talent and boost the company’s presence across sub-Saharan Africa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-for-the-future">Building for the future</h2>



The challenges we have seen in 2020 have demonstrated that companies need to become more resilient and take steps to better insulate themselves against potential shocks. A key part of that is ensuring that supply chains are more robust. The early stages of the coronavirus outbreak brought into sharp relief the need for a tangible alternative to China in particular as a supply base link and Africa is well-positioned to fill that gap, as well as being an area with a growing talent pool that will appeal to investors.



Although the improvements that we hope to see as a result of the AfCFTA and other reforms will not be realised overnight, it is worth noting that it also takes time to diversify a value chain, to establish a pipeline of talent, or to meet the needs of a new audience. If these things converge in the coming years, that may well give investors the reassurance they need to reconsider Africa as a growth market if not for today, then perhaps for the not too distant future.

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Reconsidering Africa as a potential growth market for US businesses

Improve financial controls and reduce the opportunities for fraud with Absa’s cash management team



Financial control is a critical business function. With corporate fraud increasing and difficulties introduced by remote working, it becomes even more important. “Financial control is a mechanism businesses can use to detect and prevent fraud,” says John Molanda, head of product innovation at Absa Transactional Banking’s&nbsp;cash management&nbsp;team.



Molanda says more than 60% of SA businesses have been victims of fraud over the past two years, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/services/forensics/economic-crime-survey.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PwC 2020 Global Economic Crime and Fraud Survey</a>. “In most cases, fraud is committed by internal staff,” he says.



After fraud has been detected, companies need to investigate to identify and apprehend the criminal, litigate and try to recover stolen funds. But Molanda says this can cost as much as 10 times the amount of the original fraud, which for some businesses is prohibitive. Prevention is a better option.



Integrate and prevent fraud



One of the best ways to prevent fraud is to improve financial controls by integrating business accounting and banking systems. This can eliminate the weaknesses in traditional banking processes and remove opportunities for fraud.



Richard Stocken, head of cash management product at Absa Transactional Banking, says that as banks invest heavily in providing secure banking systems, the weakness remains at the point when payments are introduced to the banking system. Here, there are opportunities to manipulate supplier bank details so that money is paid into a fraudster’s account.



Stocken says while companies often respond to the risk of fraud by adding more controls, integrating the business’s banking system into their accounting system is a better option.



He gives the example of account verification, which is a quick way to make sure the bank account on an invoice belongs to the issuer of the invoice.



“We find this service is not used often because it sits outside the company’s system in the banking system,” Stocken says. This means staff have to log into the banking system to perform the account verification, and it’s difficult for a finance director to ensure that this is done for all account changes.



“Our advice would be to integrate the verification service directly into your accounting system so that at the time you are changing supplier details, incorrect banking details are automatically identified and fraudulent payments prevented.”



Molanda says business can also mitigate the risk of fraud by integrating payment functionality.



“There is a transition period between staff downloading payment files from their accounting system and uploading them into the banking system. Banking details can be changed in this transition period. If you integrate this functionality you remove the window of opportunity for fraud.”



Integration does more than prevent fraud



“Integrating and automating processes not only reduces vulnerabilities to fraud, it dramatically increases efficiency within a finance department,” Stocken says.



Absa’s cash management team recently worked with a client where the number of employee hours used to make about 1,000 payments each month was reduced from 180 to 30.



“We integrated their banking directly into their accounting system, reducing the number of hours needed and freeing up four of the five employees previously used in the payments process to focus on higher value-adding activities in the business.”



Importantly, Molanda says integration is not just for big businesses.



“Integration used to be difficult and costly, something only large companies with large IT departments could do. Through the evolution of technology such as APIs, the process has become a lot simpler and cheaper. We have invested significantly in API technology and can now offer our clients many integration opportunities.”



“<a href="https://www.absa.africa/media-centre/media-statements/2020/absa-collaborates-with-epic-erp-and-ajs-to-offer-digital-solutions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Absa has also partnered</a>&nbsp;with different accounting systems and enterprise resource planning systems such as epic ERP and AJS to do the work of integrating so that we are able to offer the benefit to our clients without them investing as much time and capital as would previously have been necessary.”



This article was paid for by Absa CIB.

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Reduce fraud and improve efficiency with Absa’s digital cash management solutions

After generating US$32 billion in trade and investment deals in 2018, the Intra African Trade Fair (IATF) is back, with more unrivalled opportunities for businesses looking to reach new markets in Africa.



Now in its second edition, the IATF is the only pan-African, business-to-business, cross-sector trade fair. It serves as an ideal place for buyers and sellers to meet, make valuable business connections, and explore trade opportunities. As well as this, industry experts from across the continent will lead conference discussions to help guide your business to success.



The trade fair will be happening from 6 to 12 September 2021, in Kigali, Rwanda – a city known for its creative start-ups, tech hubs, and growing investment climate. For visitors who are unable to attend the event in person, there is also a year-round virtual marketplace that provides a convenient and cost-efficient way to source or showcase goods and services.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-will-attending-benefit-you-and-your-business">Will attending benefit you and your business?</h2>



With a projected US$40 billion in trade and investment deals, over 1,100 exhibitors and 10,000 visitors from over 55 countries, the IATF2021 will be the biggest gathering of buyers and sellers on the continent.



The IATF facilitates meetings and networking opportunities with major African stakeholders (whether your clients are businesses, consumers or in government) – with many of them actively looking for the right business partnerships. With face-to-face networking sessions, a hosted buyers programme, and an online business match-making programme, the opportunity for meaningful networking can expand your reach into African markets.



The IATF also offers support to help finalise deals, so buyers, investors, entrepreneurs, and product manufacturers are more likely to meet the partners they need to expand.



As well as trade opportunities, attendees have the chance the learn. A rich and varied events programme at IATF2021 will feature leading African and international speakers to address the challenges affecting intra-African trade and offer practical and effective solutions. There will also be dedicated sessions and training workshops covering everything from exporting and standards to marketing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-to-expect-from-the-exhibition">What to expect from the exhibition</h2>



The fair gives exhibitors a direct route into a single African market of 1.2 billion people, giving you a chance to present your ideas, products or services to thousands of buyers and stakeholders from all over the African continent and beyond. There’s a lot of value on offer for exhibitors; they also get access to participant and press lists, with the option of contacting attendees (who have opted into communication) or scheduling meetings with journalists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-t-attend-or-exhibit-with-the-virtual-trade-fair-you-can">Can’t attend or exhibit? With the virtual trade fair, you can</h2>



For those who can’t travel to Rwanda, there’s a virtual space to exhibit and browse all year round. In an increasingly digital age, it’s important to provide a platform for businesses to connect with African markets without the need to travel. This innovative and cost-efficient platform allows you to promote, educate, and sell to a larger audience through virtual booths. Exhibitors and attendees can also engage via live text, audio, group, and one-on-one chat. The ‘networking lounge’ can be used to reach out to relevant business contacts, initiate private conversations, and join special interest groups.



The integrated online features of the fair really help to bring the physical experience into a virtual environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more-at-the-conference">Learn more at the conference</h2>



Want to know how different sectors approach regulation challenges or what options to explore for funding your business growth?



This year, the focus of the conference is ‘Building Bridges for a Successful AfCFTA’, and discussions will centre around growth opportunities for intra-African cross-border trade and investments. Attendees will have a chance to gain industry knowledge and keep their businesses on the cutting edge. You can expect practical and reliable guidance on overcoming African trade challenges, no matter what stage your business is at or how big it is.



With investment at the core of the continent&#8217;s future growth, the conference aims to bring business owners and investors together to learn, share, and find collective solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-get-inspired-with-creative-africa">Get inspired with creative Africa</h2>



Of course, creativity is an important part of business and Africa is renowned for its creative minds. The IATF will host art and craft exhibitions that will inspire and excite you when you see how African art is changing cultural industries. There will be screenings of the latest blockbusters and independent gems, as well as filmmakers, artists, and craftspeople talking about their triumphs and challenges. Fashion designers (like Lilly Alfonso) will be showcasing their latest works at IATF2021, accompanied by daily catwalks in the exhibition area. Africa’s booming music industry will also take centre stage, with concerts featuring the most exciting performers from across the continent, plus Q&amp;A and signing sessions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wait">Why wait?</h2>



In the wake of the COVID-19 health and economic crisis, there’s no better time for African businesses to connect and form strategic partnerships to build prosperity. The IATF is a unique and unmatched opportunity for your business to explore the vibrant and varied African business sector. Why wait when you can sign up today as an exhibitor or an attendee? <a href="https://www.intrafricantradefair.com/en">https://www.intrafricantradefair.com/en</a>

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Reach new African markets and grow your business with the IATF

Top things to look out for at AfricaCom and AfricaTech in 2020



The virtual Africa Tech Festival is fast approaching (09-12 November 2020) and with an exceptional line-up of speakers, content and discussion points like never before.&nbsp;



In advance of the events, the organisers have also opened up the platform to allow registered delegates, speakers and exhibitors the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the virtual real estate.&nbsp; This also affords those attending and participating, the prospect of pre-arranging meetings and setting up their viewing agendas.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Here are some of the key highlights to expect:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AfricaTech Festival</h2>



<p id="h-africa-tech-festival-is-the-new-name-for-a-week-of-world-class-tech-events-that-includes-africacom-the-home-of-connectivity-and-communications-africatech-the-home-of-it-and-enterprise-digital-transformation-the-ahub-unleashing-the-power-of-africa-s-tech-start-up-ecosystem-accelerateher-africa-addressing-the-underrepresentation-of-women-in-technology-and-video-exchange-africa-being-virtual-has-afforded-organisers-the-ability-to-arrange-a-superb-line-up-as-well-as-making-the-event-infinitely-more-accessible-to-participants-and-delegates-within-africa-and-beyond"><a href="https://bit.ly/3oPnb0t">Africa Tech Festival</a> is the new name for a week of world-class tech events that includes AfricaCom the Home of Connectivity and Communications),&nbsp;AfricaTech (the home of IT and Enterprise Digital Transformation); the AHUB (unleashing the power of Africa&#8217;s Tech Start-Up Ecosystem; accelerateHER Africa&nbsp;(addressing the underrepresentation of women in technology) and&nbsp;Video Exchange Africa.&nbsp;Being virtual, has afforded organisers the ability to arrange a superb line-up, as well as making the event infinitely more accessible to participants and delegates within Africa and beyond.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-africa-tech-festival-headliners">The Africa Tech Festival Headliners</h2>



Featuring Africa&#8217;s most prominent digital thought-leaders from organisations including&nbsp;Safaricom,&nbsp;MTN, International Trade Centre, United Nations Economic Commission for Africaand more, the&nbsp;<a href="https://tmt.knect365.com/africa-tech-festival/speakers/">Africa Tech Festival Headliners</a>&nbsp;will share their insights on the most important topics in African technology, telecommunications and innovation.&nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Siya Kolisi, co-Founder, Kolisi Foundation</li><li>Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Republic of South Africa</li><li>Shameel Joosub, Group CEO, Vodacom</li><li>Lillian Barnard, Managing Director, Microsoft South Africa</li><li>Charles Molapisi, Group Chief Technology &amp; Information Officer, MTN</li><li>Alioune Ndiaye, CEO, Middle East and Africa, Orange</li><li>Pinky Kekana, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Republic of South Africa</li><li>Peter Ndegwa, Chief Executive Officer, Safaricom</li><li>Yolanda Cuba, Group Chief Digital and Fintech Officer, MTN</li><li>Professor Tshilidzi Marwala, Deputy Chair, Presidential 4IR Commission</li><li>Alice Munyua, Director, Africa Innovation and Public Policy, Mozilla</li><li>Nenzeni Babs Duma, CIO, WesBank</li><li>Nitin Gajria, Director &#8211; Sub-Saharan Africa, Google</li><li>Izabela Milewska, Digital Skills Global Leader, Amazon Web Services</li><li>Bob Skinstad, Former Springbok Captain and World Cup Winner, Partner, Knife Capital</li><li>Sandra La Bella, Group CIO, Alexandre Forbes</li><li>Emmanuel Lubanzadio, Head of Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, Twitter</li><li>Kojo Boakye, Director, Africa Public Policy, Facebook</li><li>Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director at International Trade Centre</li><li>Dejan Kastelic, Group Chief Technology Officer, Vodacom.</li></ul>



AI-Powered Networking



Registered delegates will have access to the platform, whose AI networking tool matches them with other attendees and sessions most relevant to their interests &#8211; making it even easier to make valuable connections. Delegates, exhibitors and speakers can be contacted using live chat or video calls as well as in-app messaging.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Own Agenda Design</li></ul>



There are over 20 different tracks and features, which can be accessed, allowing delegates to shape an agenda that matches their specific&nbsp;content needs and deep dive into the particular topics that are of the most interest.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Virtual Exhibitions</li></ul>



The Virtual Exhibition Areas are the place to find out what&#8217;s hot in digital Africa. &nbsp;Global solution providers can be visited at their stands and the latest tech can be discovered in the product gallery, or even attend live demos.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Video Exchange Africa</li></ul>



<a href="http://mail2.knect365.com/c/1YlvRJbCRxQ6zvTerb2D0bgKrRzq">Video Exchange Africa</a>&nbsp;is at the heart of video distribution and content strategy in Africa, gathering the most influential players across telco, broadcast and OTT to develop commercial models for monetising content across digital Africa.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>On-Demand Content</li></ul>



Registered delegates can also access the event platform for&nbsp;90 days post event, meaning they can watch all the event content on-demand at a time that suits them, allowing even more time to network during the actual live event.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Virtual Boardroom Sessions</li></ul>



Sn all-access pass gives entry to virtual boardroom sessions, allowing premium delegates the ability to discuss key technologies and topics in smaller group settings.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Mission Critical Technologies</li></ul>



<a href="http://mail2.knect365.com/c/1YlvSXa2DV9yFuUSEve78l41o1Ph">Mission Critical Technologies Africa</a>&nbsp;is co-located with AfricaCom. Expect a dedicated conference track, control room site visits and dedicated networking for anyone involved in public safety, transportation, utilities and defence.



<ol class="wp-block-list" type="1"><li>Deep Dives into Healthcare as well as Banking and Financial Services are on offer along with a series of key tracks that include:</li><li>5G Africa</li><li>Data Centres Africa</li><li>Artificial Intelligence Africa</li><li>AfricaTech Centre Stage</li><li>Fintech Africa</li><li>Future of Work</li><li>Africa 50 Innovation Challenge</li><li>Blockchain Africa, and</li><li>IoT Africa</li></ol>



Although this is a digitally driven event, some of the world’s best organisations involved in connecting Africa’s next billion, will also be setting up shop in online exhibition booths, and which, due to the sophistication of the conferencing platform, will engage in AI-powered networking, to ensure that progress on the continent, in terms of its digital migration, along with demos and product launches, can continue despite global lockdowns. &nbsp;To discover the full line-up and plan your agenda, visit the <a href="https://bit.ly/3oPnb0t">Africa Tech Festival website.</a>



To register for a FREE virtual pass to the Africa Tech Festival – click <a href="https://bit.ly/34hqmVn">HERE</a>



For further information please visit the 2020 <a href="https://bit.ly/3oPnb0t">website</a>



About virtual Africa Tech Festival:



Virtual Africa Tech Festival, including AfricaCom and AfricaTech, is part of the Informa Tech Connecting Africa event series, now in its 24th year. A vibrant celebration of Africa’s diverse community of tech champions, Africa Tech Festival is the largest tech and digital connectivity conference and exhibition in Africa, attracting 450 exhibitors and 15,000 attendees in 2019. Key themes for 2020 include 4IR for Africa, Connecting the Next Billion, Digital Infrastructure Investment, Tech for Good, ICT Policy and Regulation, the Future of Work and Talent and Skills Development. Africa Tech Festival also incorporates the AHUB, accelerateHER Africa and the AfricaCom Awards.

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