<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/thumbnail_GettyImages-888791812-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-422873" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/thumbnail_GettyImages-888791812-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/thumbnail_GettyImages-888791812-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/thumbnail_GettyImages-888791812-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/thumbnail_GettyImages-888791812-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/thumbnail_GettyImages-888791812.jpg 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



The COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected the way that education is conceived and delivered worldwide. As institutions in South Africa adapt to the new learning environment and consider implications for students, faculty, and staff, technology plays a critical role in enabling successful outcomes both today and in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;



That’s why OneConnect and Anthology have partnered to support the South African education community and help more students and institutions achieve their goals. With a holistic approach to education technology that’s focused on delivering dynamic, data-informed experiences, OneConnect and Anthology are breaking down silos and connecting critical systems to open up a world of new possibilities for learning.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Blending Data with Experiences&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



A learner doesn’t exist inside one system alone, and neither does an institution. By bringing together data and insights across core solutions, the right technology can help educators develop a deeper understanding of students to deliver more personalised experiences tailored to meet the needs of each learner. This also helps institutions drive operational efficiencies and meet objectives around critical areas like enrolment, retention, and engagement.&nbsp;&nbsp;



And learners are hungry for more personalised experiences. According to a global survey recently fielded by Anthology, 66% of learners agree that their university views them as individuals with unique needs and preferences, but most learners express a desire for even greater personalisation. For example, 70% would like to receive more reminders of deadlines and other key information, such as a notification about an outstanding bill or when to register for classes, as they would be more likely to complete the task on time or if prompted. And 71% would like to receive recommendations about which courses to take and when to do so during their academic career.&nbsp;



More personalised experiences can also provide the support needed to keep students on track toward achieving their goals. Survey results indicate 40% of students strongly agree that they would like to receive more support from their university to be successful. Aligning that support to the areas in which students feel they need it is critical. More tailored financial aid and career-focused support top the list.&nbsp;



Higher education leaders are nearly unanimous in their perspective on the potential impact that blending data and experiences could make. 94% globally agree that a holistic view of learner data pulled across multiple systems would benefit their team and help more students achieve their goals. The same percentage of higher education leaders are also actively looking for new opportunities to aggregate and analyse learner data to drive more insights.&nbsp;



“By considering student feedback and investing in technology resources to deliver more personalisation across everything from course delivery options to career services, higher education leaders can position their university to provide an experience that meets the needs of today’s learners—and those of tomorrow,” said Jim Milton, Chairman and CEO, Anthology.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“We believe that education technology solutions allow students in rural and remote areas access to the same quality of education as a child attending the best private school in the city. Furthermore, that student can interact with peers across the country and the continent; be exposed to new ideas and new opportunities, benefitting from the diversity and richness of their engagements. Our aim is to also help education institutions see that they can grow their businesses beyond brick and mortar and do so quickly – breaking down “walls” to reach students beyond their physical geography, through sophisticated solutions that make administration and teaching seamless,&#8221; said Rogers Sithole, MD of OneConnect Education.&nbsp;



Learners want and expect technology to be more prevalent in their higher education experience and university leaders are keenly aware of opportunities to adjust course delivery and enhance technology. In fact, according to the same global survey, 60% believe their institution lacks some of the appropriate digital learning tools to help learners succeed. Perhaps more importantly, 17% of global leaders believe that the technology resources provided by their university do not match up with learner needs in a way that adequately supports their studies. But those same leaders clearly recognise a shifting landscape, with nearly 60% confident that more classes will be available online in the next five years.&nbsp;



Institutions recognise the urgent need for new education technology as well as aligning their current tools to the changing landscape of digital learning. To that end, 45% of higher education leaders have maintained the same technology but significantly changed the way administrators, faculty, and students rely on digital resources, likely due to shifts associated with the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The good news is that universities are on the right track according to learners’ expectations of how technology is incorporated into their experience. For example, 73% of students globally prefer to submit assignments in an online portal, and 70% indicate they often or always submit assignments this way. 70% of students also prefer to receive instructor feedback on assignments through an online platform, and 66% of students indicate they often or always receive feedback this way. As universities continue along the path to fully supporting learners, more investment in technology is necessary. University leaders are cognisant of this need, and more than half are considering additional investments. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-partnering-for-progress">Partnering for Progress&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



OneConnect delivers Anthology’s comprehensive suite of education technology solutions to institutions across the African continent. Trusted by more than 150 million learners, educators and administrators in +80 countries, Anthology offers a holistic ecosystem designed to help create an inspiring and infinite world of learning without boundaries. In partnership with the African education community, OneConnect and Anthology are shaping the future of learning through technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Get to know us and explore the possibilities. <a href="http://www.anthology.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.Anthology.com</a> OR <a href="http://www.oneconnect.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.oneconnect.co.za</a>

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Supporting The African Education Community To Achieve Its Goals Through EdTech

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="679" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/17ed57e4-96e6-494e-9298-8149fda4923d-1-820x679.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-421933" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/17ed57e4-96e6-494e-9298-8149fda4923d-1-820x679.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/17ed57e4-96e6-494e-9298-8149fda4923d-1-300x249.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/17ed57e4-96e6-494e-9298-8149fda4923d-1-109x90.jpg 109w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/17ed57e4-96e6-494e-9298-8149fda4923d-1-768x636.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/17ed57e4-96e6-494e-9298-8149fda4923d-1.jpg 1084w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



How ITHUBA and its CEO are helping to make a difference in SA&#8217;s housing problems



The safety of a roof over our heads is one of the most fundamental human needs. But for many people in South Africa, achieving and hanging onto this critical milestone is a massive struggle.



Thousands affected by the recent floods in KwaZulu Natal now face this reality. Among them are the Gwala family, whose home was split into two and their bedrooms swept away, leaving them with little. Furious waters damaged the Khwela family home so severely that it had to be demolished. Numerous people also lost friends and relatives. The Lyanda family never saw their grandparents alive again and couldn&#8217;t recover their grandfather&#8217;s body.



But it doesn&#8217;t take terrific natural disasters to show how housing shortages are a major source of stress and despair for the country&#8217;s people. The Nyaku family from Gauteng have lived in a shack for many years alongside their neighbours&#8217; brick homes, waiting for their turn to receive housing. The Madonsela family from Mpumalanga inherited their late mother&#8217;s home, only to discover vandals destroyed it. And the Shange family have no idea what started the fire that consumed their home, but all they have left are ashes.



These examples are just a few from ITHUBA&#8217;s questionnaires. South Africa&#8217;s third lottery operator has embarked on a campaign to provide housing for people in desperate need, interviewing potential new owners to learn of their circumstances and liaising with traditional leaders in specific areas for guidance. It&#8217;s a project that stems from ITHUBA Holdings CEO Charmaine Mabuza&#8217;s efforts and company vision, starting inside ITHUBA and developing a means to deliver homes across the country.



ITHUBA&#8217;s project led to a recent roadshow where its staff handed over new homes to families in three provinces. Though such efforts might hardly register in a country that still needs over 3 million houses, they make a big difference for each recipient. South Africa cannot rely on the State to make up this shortfall—it will require effort from all corners of society, including private companies such as ITHUBA.



Mabuza puts a significant stake in this vision. It&#8217;s the cornerstone of her company, and she believes the way to build a stronger nation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tackling-sa-s-housing-shortage">Tackling SA&#8217;s Housing Shortage</h2>



When South Africa became a democratic nation in the early 1990s, the new dispensation made housing a development priority. Nelson Mandela, SA&#8217;s first democratically elected president, declared it an &#8220;unbreakable promise.&#8221; Housing has been a big focus, resulting in millions of new homes being built under the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP).



Yet it&#8217;s been tough to maintain that momentum. Issues such as corruption and poor planning harmed progress. But even if everything operated smoothly, the rapid urbanisation of South Africa&#8217;s cities is increasing demand significantly. According to the Centre for Affordable Housing Finance in Africa, the current backlog for new homes sits at 3.7 million, threatening to dwarf the 3 million already constructed.



This struggle for housing ranges from those who have lost homes and cannot replace them to those still waiting for homes. Mabuza realised that many people are unable to afford a house.



&#8220;Several years ago, I was again reminded that the average South African—those who make our tea, clean our office and mow our lawns—could never afford a house on their means. Even if you have access to cheap land and no levies, a new home will cost at least R500,000. The people at the bottom who work hard to give us better lifestyles have no hope of affording or financing their own place. So we started to build homes for our staff at ITHUBA, focusing on those who need it the most,&#8221; says Mabuza.



This internal project would take on additional significance due to the KZN floods. In April 2022, severe rains caused unprecedented flooding in the coastal province, killing hundreds of people and destroying thousands of homes.



Mabuza visited the region, and while she attended these engagements, she saw that ITHUBA could do more if it emulated the journey that provided her staff with their homes.



&#8220;This was our first push to define what we can do from a company perspective. We&#8217;ve learned a lot. There are many technical difficulties and hurdles. Others have criticised us. But we&#8217;re not going to stand back and do nothing about it. At least we are trying.&#8221;



That effort paid off for at least fifteen families in early December, when ITHUBA launched a roadshow to Mpumalanga, Gauteng and KwaZulu Natal, delivering fifteen homes to their new owners. It&#8217;s not enough to move the needle, says Mabuza, but it still makes an enormous difference on a personal level.



&#8220;Even helping a few at a time is a step forward. Doing nothing is a big step backwards.&#8221;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Vision to Uplift Others</h2>



ITHUBA is working on expanding its housing project even though this philanthropy is not its core business. The company delivers National Lottery services throughout the country, using new technologies to make the National Lottery more accessible to prospective players. ITHUBA is regulated by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).&nbsp; The NLC’s mandate is to regulate Lotteries and funding to develop arts, culture, and sports and address the basic everyday needs of people.



&#8220;People lose sight of why National Lotteries are formed. National Lotteries are created because governments cannot make the necessary funds available for certain sectors,&#8221; says Mabuza. &#8220;Lotteries can fill that gap if they are run responsibly and with the right vision. And vision is critical to me. I wanted to ensure that I built an organisation that is a catalyst, not only from a bottom-line perspective, but also in making a difference. It must also support my vision that corporate social investment matters, making this organisation a catalyst of change and support to people making a difference.&#8221;



The National Lottery operator, ITHUBA, has been practising this since its inception in June 2015. It provides bursaries, entrepreneur development programmes, food schemes and numerous other activities outside its work with the National Lottery and National Lotteries Commission. ITHUBA pursues development and nation-building that goes beyond its mandate from the National Lottery, an expression of Mabuza&#8217;s vision.



But few needs are as primary and life-changing as providing homes. As the late musician Sol Hurok said, &#8220;The sky&#8217;s the limit if you have a roof over your head.&#8221; Inadequate housing is one of South Africa&#8217;s most significant barriers. South African Government data from 2019 estimated that nearly thirteen percent of the country&#8217;s 59 million people still live in shacks. The KZN floods put a new spotlight on this plight and the struggles of many people longing for the basics of a safe house where families can gather.



Giving a speech during a handover event, Charmaine Mabuza said, &#8220;Thina abase ITHUBA, sinizwile, ngaloko, sizzle kulo suku, sini lethele izindlu, lapha nizo hlala khona. As ITHUBA, we have heard your cries, and we are here today on this day to give you houses where you will be staying.&#8221;



Her words emphasise the next phase of ITHUBA&#8217;s housing project, guided by a vision that by helping each other, we help ourselves and help the nation. South Africa&#8217;s housing challenge may be enormous. But it&#8217;s not unconquerable when driven by the spirit that motivates Mabuza and her colleagues.

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Changing Lives One Family At A Time

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="638" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/W-Dobson-Bio-Photo-2022-1-820x638.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-421878" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/W-Dobson-Bio-Photo-2022-1-820x638.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/W-Dobson-Bio-Photo-2022-1-300x234.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/W-Dobson-Bio-Photo-2022-1-116x90.jpg 116w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/W-Dobson-Bio-Photo-2022-1-768x598.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/W-Dobson-Bio-Photo-2022-1-1536x1196.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/W-Dobson-Bio-Photo-2022-1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Wendy Dobson, Head: Group Corporate Citizenship at Standard Bank Group</figcaption></figure>



JOHANNESBURG, 7 December 2022: Energy is a key enabler of sustainable and inclusive growth. However, <a href="https://www.un.org/africarenewal/magazine/july-2021/africa-may-not-meet-target-energy-study">according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa</a>, 600 million people on our continent do not have access to electricity, which corresponds to an electricity access rate for African countries of just over 40% &#8211; the lowest in the world.



Another challenge to overcome is that Africa’s energy is mainly generated by burning carbon-based fuels, making this sector the highest contributor to the continent’s carbon emissions. The development of renewable energy infrastructure is critical to overcome both challenges – to decarbonise the sector and generate much needed energy for millions of Africa’s people.



It must be recognised, however, that a sudden switch away from carbon-based forms of energy poses huge transition risks for Africa’s people. Countries such as Nigeria, Angola, Ghana and Mozambique depend on the foreign currency and tax revenues generated from the production of oil and gas for global markets to develop their respective economies and support social development. In South Africa, the coal value chain accounts for 5% of GDP, and provides employment for about 200 000 workers.



To ensure a just transition away from carbon-based forms of energy, we must find ways to counterbalance the negative impacts on livelihoods and income. We must ensure that no-one is left behind. This requires a holistic and inclusive approach, which considers both environmental and socio-economic issues specific to each country or region.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-financing-a-just-transition">Financing a just transition</h2>



According to the <a href="https://www.afdb.org/sites/default/files/2022/05/25/aeo22_chapter3_eng.pdf">African Development Bank</a>, the estimated cumulative financing needs for Africa to respond adequately to climate change range from about US$1.3 trillion to US$1.6 trillion, or about US$127.8 billion per year. If developing countries are to move away from carbon-based fuels, they will require massive foreign investment flows to support the development of renewable energy infrastructure. To date, this investment has been woefully small. In 2021, for example, only 0.6% of global investment in renewable energy was invested in Africa.



Policy approaches and financing solutions need to include provision for not just the development of renewable energy infrastructure capacity, but also support for the communities and workers negatively impacted by the transition, including skills development and support to transition into new economic activities.



Adaptation finance will also be critical, to enable communities and countries to adapt to changes and challenges that are already taking place. In November, governments, leading corporates, academics, and other industry leaders gathered in Egypt for the 27th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC, or COP27. For emerging markets in particular, the priority this year was for a commitment from developed nations to loss and damage funding agreement, to assist developing countries that are already suffering from the impacts of climate change. Such funding is crucial to enable these countries to access the significant amounts of capital needed to manage climate adaptation and strengthen their resilience to the physical risks of climate change. While an agreement has been reached, a huge step in the right direction, the details are still to be developed.



Two important initiatives were launched at COP27. One is the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme, which aims to mobilise US$25 billion over the next five years for climate adaption. Another is the Africa Carbon Markets Initiative, which seeks to dramatically expand Africa’s participation in voluntary carbon markets, raising hundreds of millions of US dollars for credible carbon offsets across the continent.



While both programmes are potentially game-changing, effective implementation remains a challenge. In a global context characterised by high levels of geopolitical tension, macroeconomic uncertainty and the looming threat of recession, the risk of weak and inadequate follow-through on COP commitments is high.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Banks strategically positioned to drive sustainable finance</h2>



Financial services providers, particularly those on the ground in Africa and with a strong understanding of African markets, have a crucial role to play. These institutions understand the risks and opportunities at national and regional level, they have strong relationships with diverse stakeholders across the public and private sectors, and they understand the energy needs, economic dependencies and climate commitments of different countries. They are well positioned to work with governments and multilateral agencies to model appropriate solutions for infrastructure development finance, adaptation finance, and solutions to support the just transition.



Africa’s financial services providers are also working closely with their clients, from corporates to farmers to small businesses, to help them manage the transition to a low carbon economy in ways that support sustainability, increase climate resilience, and enhance socio-economic development. Many of us have made our own net zero commitments and are partnering with our clients to achieve these commitments, in a manner that supports a just transition and sustainable economic growth.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Investor confidence </h2>



Africa’s just energy transition must maximise the social and economic opportunities associated with the transition, including the development of new sectors, skills and local manufacturing and technological capacity, while supporting every effort to reduce emissions and develop new, cleaner sources of energy.



Solutions need to be contextualised and tailored to the environmental, socio-economic, and political priorities of each country. National governments need to provide clear leadership and policy certainty, to secure investor confidence, attract foreign funding, and ensure projects are designed and implemented with a strong focus on good governance and the realisation of both social and environmental benefits. Africa has the natural resources, in the form of sun, wind, waves and biodiversity, to lead the world in renewable energy and carbon offset mechanisms. But it will need all of us, the public and private sectors and civil society, working together to achieve this potential.

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Financing the Just Energy Transition for Africa’s Emerging Markets

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TIEKIE-2-AT-SUMMIT--820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-421123" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TIEKIE-2-AT-SUMMIT--820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TIEKIE-2-AT-SUMMIT--300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TIEKIE-2-AT-SUMMIT--135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TIEKIE-2-AT-SUMMIT--768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TIEKIE-2-AT-SUMMIT--1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TIEKIE-2-AT-SUMMIT-.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Tiekie Barnard, CEO and Founder of the Africa Shared Value Initiative, organisers of the 6th Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit recently held in Kigali, Rwanda.</figcaption></figure>



What does a connected future look like? It is about reinventing manufacturing, logistics, retail, healthcare, and other industries as our consumers are empowered, connected, and enabled with a new form of lifestyle management that we&#8217;ve never witnessed before.



The future belongs to those that can act fast, that are agile and that are not bogged down and held back by age-old business rules. The system change we need.



The 2022 Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit (ASVLS) recently delivered alongside Mobile World Congress Africa (MWC Africa) in Kigali, Rwanda was a true reflection of what is needed to create a connected future and a true demonstration that the future belongs to those that can act and move fast.



This year’s collaboration was a first for the global Shared Value community. The purpose of delivering the two flagship events alongside each other was to create a platform where we could convene industry experts, government, and business leaders, as well as other interested parties from across all sectors to form collaborative ecosystems and partnerships, committing consciously and intentionally to create value and collective impact to build a more prosperous Africa for all.



The conversations and discussion of the ASVLS focused on how we, as a collective, can influence, motivate, and take conscious action to bring about change. The intention was also to create an understanding that without connectivity and the conscious and intentional creation of profit with purpose, real tangible progress that will change lives and bolster economies will remain unobtainable.



As the Shared Value Africa Initiative, we believe there is no greater barrier to Africa’s economic growth and a connected future than the lack of connectivity and affordable broadband for all. We cannot expect economic growth if we do not empower and equip all Africans, especially our women and young leaders, through providing information and education that will help them make more informed decision. Technology, connectivity, and affordable access for all is the game changer for Africa.



As a Pan-African organisation, the SVAI continues to advocate for the adoption of the Shared Value Business Management concept across Africa. Staying true to our purpose to build Africa’s most impactful business network, the ASVLS was once again aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the belief that conversations on technology, digital inclusion and value creation need to lead to action – now more than ever.



What we experienced in Kigali, and reflecting on the programmes and content that MWC Africa delivered, was a sound confirmation of technical innovation, progress, programmes, and approaches needed to create this connected future for all Africans. &nbsp;The Summit sessions unpacked, discussed, and reconfirmed the connectivity requirements from a human centered, collaborative and ecosystem approach to deliver a connected future.



One aspect that stood out at the 2022 ASVLS was the passionate participation of our young leaders. As the future of this continent, I have no doubt that our youth dividend will not let us down.



The Kigali gathering once again confirmed that we need to create platforms for our young leaders to participate on the same stages as our global and continental leadership. To find solutions as a collective, we need to welcome the participation of our youth, as they are the ones who will ultimately create the Africa we want.



You are invited to view the 2022 flagship gathering of purpose-driven organisations and thought leaders, all committed to driving change across the continent and the rest of the world. &nbsp;



To access Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit Day 1, click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eoWBMAwrJ8&amp;t=584s">here</a>



To access Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit Day 2, click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPSdQeHDzA0">here</a>



For more information on the Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit and its organisers, click <a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.africasharedvaluesummit.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7C%7C41312c44cd764cb48f6a08dab18fc172%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638017528243012969%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=iB7rw0%2B5aZvQ%2BeMeK1yhHxpulI7tLkMIkClSnO6rbNk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here.</a>

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Our connected future

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/CARL-MANLAN-2--820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-421127" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/CARL-MANLAN-2--820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/CARL-MANLAN-2--300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/CARL-MANLAN-2--135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/CARL-MANLAN-2--768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/CARL-MANLAN-2--1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/CARL-MANLAN-2-.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Carl Manlan, VP Inclusive Impact and Sustainability, VISA CEMEA was a keynote speaker at the Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, where he discussed digital inclusion and the digital divide and how we use technology to create shared value on the African continent.  </figcaption></figure>



Over the next decade, <a href="https://www.weforum.org/platforms/shaping-the-future-of-digital-economy-and-new-value-creation">70 per cent </a>of the new value creation in the economy will come from digitally enabled business models. Digitally and financially literate individuals will be a community’s passport to the digital economy, and we must meet people where they are through innovative ideas.



<a href="https://en.unesco.org/news/digital-skills-critical-jobs-and-social-inclusion">Digital skills</a> are the range of abilities enabling people to create, to share content, to communicate, to collaborate and to solve problems effectively by leveraging technology. For an individual, financial skills are the <a href="https://www.practicalmoneyskills.com/assets/presskit/Visa_FactSheet_FinancialLiteracy.pdf">essentials of personal financial management </a>&nbsp;whereas for an <a href="https://www.igi-global.com/dictionary/financial-literacy-and-innovation-performance-in-smes/47375">entrepreneur</a> they are more focused the management of financial resources needed to build a sustainable business. It is the combination of skills and the collective ability to withstand and to adapt to local and global shocks that are at stake.



Access to digital financial technologies opens <a href="https://pages.devex.com/rs/685-KBL-765/images/REPORT_Bridging-the-Divide_Skills-for-digital-financial-equity-and-inclusion.pdf">pathways</a> to earn, to save, to invest, and to borrow. And in some instances, these technologies can be instrumental for health or humanitarian emergency support like <a href="https://www.brookings.edu/blog/future-development/2022/02/17/accelerating-digital-cash-transfers-to-the-worlds-poorest/">Novissi</a>, in Togo, which accelerated digital cash transfers to communities. The program provided communities with social grants leveraging mobile phones and mobile money technology thus reaching communities where they were to cope with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While we cannot always solve for health and climate-related emergencies, we can partner to uplift communities with the right skills and tools to thrive in the digital economy.



We know that between 2010 and 2019, <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/financial-services/our-insights/fintech-in-africa-the-end-of-the-beginning">300 million Africans</a> were brought online for the first time. Improving access is a necessary step but not sufficient to transform ideas into opportunities. While this bodes well for providers of digital financial products and services, there is a skills and training gap that must be addressed in new ways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developing-skills-through-gaming">Developing skills through gaming</h2>



In <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/financial-services/our-insights/fintech-in-africa-the-end-of-the-beginning">bridging the divide</a>, a study released in September 2022, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6980989564702093312/">62 per cent</a> of respondents cited a lack of digital skills as the primary barrier to creating and enhancing livelihoods through the digital economy. <a href="https://www.practicalbusinessskills.org/">Practical Business Skills</a> (PBS) is, an online learning platform, designed to accelerate the development of youth and merchant skills. For instance, <a href="https://www.itweb.co.za/content/Pero3MZ3AVlqQb6m">Trace Academia</a>, reimagined Visa’s PBS into an interactive course covering different skills, thus meeting young people online to provide a learning experience on their mobile devices. Moreover, eCommerce platforms such as <a href="https://www.takealot.com/">takealot</a> and <a href="https://www.anka.africa/">Anka</a> which support merchants, are important pathways to increase opportunities for skills development. For example, <a href="https://tradechronicle.com/daraz-and-visa-collaborate-to-impart-business-skills-for-online-sellers/">Daraz</a>, in Pakistan leveraged PBS’ to enhance Daraz University offering to merchants in Urdu. By making the content accessible in local language, we ensured that language would not be a barrier to access content.



As we think about skills development at scale, video game players present an interesting opportunity. The gaming community in sub-Saharan Africa grew from 77 million to <a href="https://www.africanews.com/2022/03/01/africa-records-high-number-of-gamers-with-some-turning-professionals/">186 million</a> between 2015 and 2021. Visa, where I work, is collaborating with Paradise Game to deliver online financial education to a growing African community. <a href="https://gamesmea.com/paradise-game-opens-the-largest-gaming-center-in-west-africa/">Paradise Game</a> will give their online gaming community access to digital financial skills to help them rethink short and long-term financial goals as well as practical money skills. Connecting their passion for gaming with financial education is one of the <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6980474928336658432?updateEntityUrn=urn:li:fs_feedUpdate:(V2,urn:li:activity:6980474928336658432)">objectives</a> of this nascent collaboration. Paradise Game will disseminate <a href="https://world.financialfootball.com/en">Financial Football</a> to gamers making skills development a critical engagement tool at the intersection of sports and education. By gamifying learning and entering their world we have an opportunity to reinforce engagement and motivation as well as <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1747938X19301058">social connectivity</a>.&nbsp;



Moreover, Newzoo, the world&#8217;s leading provider of games and esports data and insight, estimates that 33 per cent of the 186 million (<a href="https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/tanzania/news/business/how-africa-enriches-video-game-makers-3729654">63 million</a>) pay for games as the continent embraces digital currencies. Across South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Ethiopia, gamers spent more than <a href="https://www.gamesindustry.biz/sub-saharan-african-gamers-have-grown-from-77m-to-186m-in-six-years">USD 500 million</a> in 2021. As the required skills and tools are brought to individuals and communities, it is important for the right partners to deliver tailor made programs where communities are.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">By bringing core competencies, meaningful partnerships are created</h2>



Visa’s collaboration with Shared Value Africa and United States Development Assistant Fund aims at improving communities’ ability to better utilize the grants they receive through skills development. The solution developed uses platforms such as WhatsApp to make learning accessible with limited internet connectivity and designing for offline capabilities too.



Accelerate program is another initiative that will help <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/patsianlow_livenow-acceleratemybusiness-activity-6981445018221780992-3ocW?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop">6,000</a> women-led micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) &nbsp;in rural and remote communities gain practical skills to sustain and grow their business.



We are also collaborating with the Mauritanian Investment Promotion Agency <a href="https://km.visamiddleeast.com/en_KM/visa-everywhere/blog/bdp/2021/12/07/powering-mauritanian-smes-1638869733162.html">(Agence de Promotion des Investissements en Mauritanie</a> or APIM) to upskill self-employed youth and micro-businesses that make up the vast majority of jobs among the entrepreneurial households in Mauritania. The objective of this partnership is to break unfavorable intergenerational cycles of being underserved by the financial system and chart a path towards prosperity for more youth and more women where they are. In Africa and in Asia, these partnerships demonstrate a pathway to scaling digital financial literacy programs. But there is no one-size-fits-all solution and at different levels, community networks are critical for us to adapt solutions to local contexts. Trust is the glue that brings us together for the impact we seek to achieve through individuals and households. Peers or neighbours often serve as the most trusted sources of information on digital financial technologies, thus underscoring the importance of grassroot social networks in designing interventions. The latter will bring individuals, communities, and businesses the digital and financial skills they need to withstand and adapt to local and global challenges.

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Digital and financial skills – part of the journey to greater equity and inclusion

It&#8217;s time to get business done better with MTN Business ICT Solutions



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-running-a-digital-business">Running a digital business</h2>



More and more, clients are looking for ways to keep their staff productive in a dynamically changing business environment. Whether your people are working from home, the office or abroad, there is a growing recognition that digitising your operations can offer unprecedented commercial value in flexibility, productivity and growth. This new, digital reality means that it is more important than ever to stay agile &#8211; if there is anything that can slow a business down, it is being burdened by old technology.



Having made substantial investments in fibre technology, high-speed terrestrial and undersea networks and new frequency spectrum across the markets wherein it operates, MTN is perfectly positioned to respond to this shift in the market.&nbsp;



A few years ago, MTN also made the decision to build an IP capable radio network for their mobile services, giving their core network the ability to seamlessly integrate with enterprise IP networks. Their mobile towers deliver services to enterprise clients absolutely anywhere they have a network, shortening the last mile and removing complexity and cost.&nbsp;



Now there is increasing demand from clients to connect their remote sites in all areas, including rural and semi-rural. MTN has assisted clients with overcoming this connectivity hurdle, enabling their staff to get the job done wherever they are.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MTN’s evolution&nbsp;</h2>



For MTN, the focus has shifted from just being a core telecommunications services provider, towards also becoming a technology solutions provider. Their service offering now also includes the Internet of Things (IoT), Unified communication, Cloud solutions, Security as a Service and Managed network. The scope has changed to being client and industry specific, so the requirements and service portfolio vary from one client to the next. The expectation is that a company like MTN must respond to these challenges, helping clients to get business done better as they shift from old to new technologies.&nbsp;



As many businesses continue to grapple with a digitally dynamic world, they face new challenges that have to be solved. This environment will benefit those that are more digitally enabled and agile. It is a brave new world that will favour online over on-site, wireless over wired and fluid over formulaic. Businesses will seek out partners and suppliers that are every bit as flexible and forward-looking as they are.&nbsp;



Ultimately, clients need partners like MTN Business that will invest in infrastructure, deliver the services they require, have market credibility, are financially sound and have a long-term commitment to their market presence.

Working Late. Young woman, architect working late in office

Nothing should get in the way of getting business done

By Hanisa Weru, Strategic Alliances Leader in Africa for Sun King



As commodity prices soar and leaders around the world worry about energy shortages and prices of gasoline at the pump, millions of people in Africa still lack access to reliable electricity.&nbsp; One-half of the people on the continent cannot turn on a fan when temperatures go up, keep food cool, or simply turn the lights on. Off-grid, decentralized renewable energy solutions serve as a viable alternative for millions of people, especially in countries with an underserved population and difficult terrain. Off-grid solar companies utilize innovative technology systems from pay-as-you-go (PAYG) technology to unconventional and revolutionary mobile applications to enable clean energy access to consumers. One advantage of these financing and payment models has been the increase in affordability of off-grid systems.



For example, according to the World Bank, West Africa has one of the lowest rates of electricity access in the world; about 42% of the total population, and 8% of rural residents, have access to electricity. There is a disparity between grid access and access to electricity. This means there has been some involvement of decentralized renewable energy systems to close that gap. The idea of a renewable decentralized system is now commonly and more consciously embraced in Africa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-pay-as-you-go-method-for-energy-access">The pay-as-you-go method for energy access</h2>



Decentralized renewable energy systems include mini-grids, microgrids, solar home systems, and many more. The growing adoption has allowed product manufacturers to develop affordable, sustainable clean energy products that meet rural consumers’ needs. Sun King has a range of products that are embedded with the pay-as-you-go (PAYG) technology allowing customers to make daily micropayments for their solar home energy system over a period of time, making them affordable. A huge upfront sum is not needed for continued energy, you can flexibly pay for it over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The confluence of mobile usage and energy access</h2>



There have been multiple touchpoints between the two industries, telecommunications and pay-as-you-go solar, that prove their relationship to be immensely symbiotic in nature.



Firstly, pay-as-you-go systems allow customers to charge their mobile phone, keeping them connected and allow them to maintain constant communication to the world, to their families that leads to increased use of mobile services, data and airtime. This also allows for users to do business from far off distances, sometimes, even across borders.



Secondly, pay-as-you-go (PAYG) solar has been enabled by mobile money and mobile connectivity that allows customers to pay by installments, and companies to remotely control and monitor the solar home systems (SHS). The PAYG solar industry has helped to drive the adoption and use of mobile money, by giving customers a regular and essential use case, ensuring they have a convenient and safe power source to charge their phones, fostering financial inclusion. In much of the world, people don’t live near banks or have bank accounts. Research suggests that the fast spread of these systems that give access to mobile money leads to significant economic growth in the areas affected. In parts of Africa, mobile money systems are ubiquitous. In Uganda, 43 percent of people have a mobile money account. 84% of internet users in Kenya and 60% in Nigeria regularly made payments with mobile phones in 2021. Transaction frequency with mobile money increases for transactions for products and services beyond energy.



Sun King collaborates with telecommunication operators through varied partnership models. The type of transactions: cash-in, cash-out, merchant payment, person-to-person payment, airtime purchase, all grew for the PAYG group. Increase in person-to-person transactions reinforces the point that PAYG adoption drives mobile money usage across transaction types, and that more value is circulating in the digital ecosystem.



Thirdly, there is an&nbsp; increasing trend of telecoms starting to look beyond their revenue earning models and find innovative partnerships that can lead to sustainable increases in ARPU and customer retention. For example, increasing mobile internet usage is a high priority for mobile operators seeking to stimulate phone activities among their clients. Energy providers can, and want to, leverage their customer relationship to continue to offer services after a customer has completed the payment on their first solar home system.



Expanding into rural consumer segments with value-added services such as pay-as-you-go solar products for daily energy and infotainment is a really interesting spot where telecoms can deliver long-term value to their users. PAYG smartphones, associated with increased mobile usage, are a good example of this trend and are developing fast in related markets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Creating an ecosystem through collaboration for energy access</h2>



The key to unlocking energy access requires a collaborative effort of industry and sector stakeholders working to serve the underserved population. For example, financing is very important for PAYG solar deployment. The industry needs financiers to get more involved and partner with manufacturers, distributors to provide energy to rural communities. They (manufacturers and distributors) need access to financing for onward lending to customers, allowing them to pay for their energy in installments in a flexible, affordable way.&nbsp; With the pay-as-you-go option, manufacturers and/or distributors provide energy to the consumer with an option to pay overtime. So, who bears the huge capital cost or funds the working capital required for financing and distribution of the solar home systems, mini-grids, or macro grids?



Reiterated at the Mobile World Congress at Kigali, Rwanda, this year, the PAYG opportunity is enormous given the extent of pent up demand for affordable pathways to access essential goods and services. PAYG provider and mobile operator partnerships are central to meeting this need as each side brings unique value. While PAYG models have mobile services at their core, PAYG providers and mobile operators can develop a symbiotic relationship to reach the underserved communities with the services they need. Deepening these partnerships will ultimately reach end users with products and services they have traditionally been excluded from accessing.

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Increasing energy access: The rise of pay-as-you-go solar and innovative payment methods

The recent severe floods in Nigeria, as well as record high temperatures in various parts of the world have placed the spotlight on the growing threat posed by climate change and the urgent need to ramp up investments in green energy solutions.



The world’s attention has also been fixated on the Ukrainian invasion – a human crisis that has thrown into stark reality Europe’s dependence on Russian hydrocarbons and the pipeline infrastructure that delivers oil and gas to the region’s consumers.&nbsp;



Energy prices have skyrocketed since early 2022, highlighting the strategic and moral dilemma facing Europe’s most industrialised economies. Germany, due to its own limited natural resources, is heavily reliant on Russia for more than half of its gas, almost half of its coal and about a third of its oil, according to Bloomberg.&nbsp; While already one of the world’s most advanced economies in terms of greener energy usage, Germany has found that its renewables are nowhere near enough to sustain its population’s demands for the electricity and fuel while also powering its economy.



Like most of Europe, Germany is balancing its need for energy security and economic growth, even as it embarks on a decades-long transition to greener fuels and greater energy independence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">African Opportunity</h2>



The need for Africa to follow a just transition to greener energy and advance the development of its people is imperative. The developed world has a significant head-start. Compare Germany and Uganda. According to the World Bank, GDP per capita in Germany was $46&nbsp;208 in 2020, while for Uganda it was a paltry $822. In the same year, German life expectancy at birth was 81.4, while in Uganda it was 63.7. Likewise, in 2018 Germany emitted 8.22 metric tons (tonne) of CO2 per person, while Uganda’s carbon footprint was just 0.143 tonnes per person. There are many statistics that reference this and Uganda, like most other African countries, still has a long path ahead to catch up with the developed nations of the world.&nbsp;



It is against these disparities that Africa needs a multi-stakeholder and multinational approach to curb the climate crisis. The latest United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (“IPCC”) report warns that limiting global warming to 1.5°C is looking ever more unlikely without urgent global action on drastic reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.



Even though Africa is a minor contributor to global GHG emissions (3.8%), the climate risks for our continent are real and ominous. Not only are African countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, despite contributing significantly less to global carbon emissions, they face greater dilemmas than their European counterparts in meeting the legitimate needs of their people today while transitioning to a greener, more just society.



Historically, renewables were criticised as being too expensive. However, we have seen a significant decline in their cost due in large part to advancements in technology, making renewables more efficient and affordable. Technological advances have increased the possibility of achieving a transition away from non-renewable energy sources, with Africa being rich in untapped renewables – solar, wind, hydropower and geothermal.



In the medium to long-term, there is an immense opportunity for Africa to produce and export green energy solutions to sunshine-poor northern climates. There are innovative opportunities with vast potential that aim to re-tool economies to run on hydrogen produced from African sunshine and wind.



Earlier this year, Anglo American unveiled the world’s biggest green hydrogen-powered truck at a platinum mine in Limpopo, South Africa. The mining giant intends to replace its existing diesel-fuelled fleet that uses an estimated 40 million litres of carbon-based fuel a year with green-hydrogen powered trucks. This early-stage development shows the innovative work underway on our continent and creates room for us to be world leaders in the green hydrogen economy.&nbsp; President Ramaphosa called the initiative a “a gigantic leap for South Africa’s hydrogen future economy” and represents “the genesis of an entire ecosystem powered by hydrogen.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-funding-a-just-energy-transition">Funding a Just Energy Transition</h2>



The International Labour Organisation and United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change defines a just transition as, “greening the economy in a way that is as fair and inclusive as possible to everyone concerned, creating decent work opportunities and leaving no one behind.”



While Africa must join the global drive towards limiting GHG emissions, this action must be considered within the context of Africa’s just transition towards a low-carbon economy and in a manner that recognises and addresses the deep energy deficit across African economies. The transition away from non-renewable energy will necessarily be a gradual and measured process, given widespread energy poverty across sub-Saharan Africa, where less than 50% of the population have access to electricity.



As the World Bank has argued, Africa’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and its medium-term development, both require a degree of openness to further investment in ‘brown’ activities.&nbsp; Many argue that a refusal to accept this would amount to denying Africa’s right to sustainable development. A total or immediate ban on further transitional projects in Africa to help reduce environmental pressure in much richer regions is simply unjust.



Energy, in general, underpins economic growth in emerging markets, specifically in Africa, where affordable and reliable energy access is fundamental to development. Therefore, non-renewable energy will likely remain key to ensuring energy security in many African regions requiring broad access to electricity as well as transportation.



Africa’s growing urban populations will require a reliable and sustainable energy supply to power industrial production, electrify more households and expand the use of transport to drive socio-economic development. Certain countries – Nigeria, Angola, Ghana and Mozambique – produce oil and gas for international markets, thus providing foreign currency and tax revenues to develop their respective economies. It is important to objectively acknowledge the pressing need to balance all these realities as part of ensuring a just energy transition.



Having said that, Standard Bank Group’s long-term goal is clear. We will achieve a portfolio mix that is net zero by 2050. That will entail reducing our financed emissions and simultaneously scaling up our financing of renewables, reforestation, climate-smart agriculture, decarbonisation and transition technologies, and supporting the development of credible carbon offset programmes. We are already a major funder of renewable energy projects in Africa. Since 2012, 86% of our new energy lending has been to renewable energy and we have not financed any new coal-fired power stations since 2009.



Responsible investment means following globally accepted environmental, social and governance (ESG) best practices like those embodied in the Equator Principles&nbsp;(EP) and the International Finance Corporations (IFC&#8217;s)&nbsp;best practice standards, both of which underpin Standard Bank’s investment portfolio. Here, responsible investors can not only support development, but can work with carefully selected clients to ensure that carbon-based energy projects are responsibly developed with the lowest possible carbon footprint. This is how Standard Bank intends to play our role in Africa.



We will finance initiatives that drive economic growth and human development across Africa. Much of this will be investments in renewable energy infrastructure and transitioning to a new sustainable economy, even as we unlock opportunities from Africa’s existing natural endowment. Every major investment must be done according to the highest ethical and governance standards.



Ultimately, just as Europe doesn’t “un-develop” itself by switching off gas, so too Africa cannot keep itself under-developed by forgoing all carbon-based fuel investment opportunities at the same pace as the developed global north. This would be at great social cost for the continent. Both need to transition to something better – and Standard Bank will support Africa’s just energy transition.

Kenny-Fihla_CE_CIB

Investing in Africa energy – the carbon conundrum

Water and Electricity &#8211; The lifeline of any society! Both at the heart of economic growth and social well-being. Inefficiencies to the operations of water and electricity can lead to various issues, such as reduced productivity, employment and business opportunities, and disrupted health and economic growth. Without this infrastructure, economies would be at a standstill.



The efficient and steady supply of water and electricity is an imperative for the development, maintenance, and preservation of well-functioning societies. This is applicable to all areas of a working economy that includes both the production and services sector. They both play a fundamental role in food production, healthy ecosystems and for human survival itself. These resources at the heart of adaptation to climate change, serving as the crucial link between society and the environment.



Recently, the city of Johannesburg has been hit by drastic water and power outages, with blackouts at the heart of the crisis, caused by aging and poorly maintained facilities and underbudgeting for infrastructure updates. This has caused damaging effects to the city’s hospitals and manufacturing facilities. As a city that’s perfectly poised to entice global business; Johannesburg must do some work to get the basics right.



This month, Johannesburg water reported a R2.3 billion backlog to replace aging water infrastructure over the next 10 years. In September, the city recorded its 100th day of power cuts this year alone and has exceeded that figure since. The <a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/southafrica/news/city-of-old-joburg-faces-mammoth-task-of-clearing-r300bn-infrastructure-backlog-with-only-r77bn-20220926">overall infrastructure backlog is R300 billion</a>, with a capital budget of only R7.7 billion to resolve these issues.



Right now, the focus needs to be on innovative solves that are unique to the city’s challenges. &nbsp;A move to more sustainable and decentralized energy systems can support service delivery to all citizens of Johannesburg and is a viable solution for the long-term. If you look anywhere in the world, whatever people do that makes them human is powered by electricity, hence reliable supply is vital. Development relies on humanly connected services. Right now, there’s a dire need for efficient energy supply.



<a href="https://new.siemens.com/global/en/products/energy/topics/distributed-energy-systems.html">Distributed energy systems</a> (DES) solutions are the next step in renewable energy. They comprise small networks of people, businesses and public services, hooked up to an independent power source, that could be part-solar or wind. It is a game changer for SME’s as it will improve availability of electricity for their business ventures. Our pilot involved the installation of a microgrid at our Midrand Headquarters. This has reduced the use of utility supplied energy by 50%, saving 2&nbsp;435&nbsp;000 kWh, which equates to 174&nbsp;000 kWh per month – approximately the equivalent of the energy used by 50 average South African households annually.



Ours is a proven solution that can help save energy, cut costs, lower carbon emissions and ensure uninterrupted power. Everything from installation to operating costs have been tracked to present a realistic case study for the local context, and the results to date are convincing. At Siemens, we are leading by example through our commitment to turn our operations carbon neutral by 2030. We believe companies need to play a pioneering role in driving this change.



Collaborative efforts between all spheres of government and private institutions are needed to ensure a stable water supply. Johannesburg’s water treatment sector has the collective knowledge, technology and capacity to solve the country’s water and wastewater treatment crisis and solutions to these challenges are readily available within the country. To address the situation, a great deal of work must be done on maintenance and storage capacity must be upgraded and increased.



Siemens recognizes the importance of this valuable resource on our planet. With our company’s expertise, we enable the water industry to get the most from digitalization. The intelligent applications like the Siemens Water (SIWA), which are specifically developed for water and waste-water industry operators can optimize energy efficiency, avoid water loss and reduce contamination of water bodies and take predictive maintenance measures.



Going forward, we’re likely to see more renewable and hybrid energy solutions at play. Ultimately, the aim will continue to be achieving carbon neutrality through smart sustainability measures that are intelligently introduced to protect people as well as the planet. A ‘just’ energy approach is imperative to preserve and create jobs, while making the transition.



Achieving efficient water and energy is possible, with the right partnerships, the right knowledge and expertise. By working with the private sector, local and national governments can leverage the knowledge and the proficiency of the private sector and can improve infrastructure delivery and maintenance.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="485" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Sabine-DallOmo-profile-1-820x485.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-420712" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Sabine-DallOmo-profile-1-820x485.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Sabine-DallOmo-profile-1-300x177.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Sabine-DallOmo-profile-1-152x90.jpg 152w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Sabine-DallOmo-profile-1-768x454.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Sabine-DallOmo-profile-1-1536x908.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Sabine-DallOmo-profile-1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Sabine Dall&#8217;Omo</figcaption></figure>

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Solutions to greater Joburg’s infrastructure challenges 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC04259_1-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-420553" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC04259_1-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC04259_1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC04259_1-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC04259_1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC04259_1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC04259_1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>David Auerbach, co-found of Sanergy; Imtiaz Patel, chairman of the MultiChoice Group; Hannah Jones, CEO of Earthshot and Nancy Matimu, Managing Director Kenya &#8211; MultiChoice Group</figcaption></figure>



Despite accounting for only 4% of the global carbon emissions, the impact of climate change disproportionately affects Africa and poses a considerable threat to human well-being and development on the continent. This is more so because many African countries depend on climate dependent sectors such as energy, tourism, water, and agriculture.



According to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO)’s State of the Climate in Africa 2021 report, extreme weather and climate change are undermining human health and safety, food and water security, and socio-economic development on the African continent.



The report states that the rate of temperature rise across Africa is faster than the global average and that 2021 ranked between the third and fourth warmest year on record for Africa. The African Development Bank acknowledge the impact of climate change in Africa, and has pointed out that African economies are between <a href="https://mg.co.za/opinion/2022-10-03-africa-is-the-recipient-of-collateral-damage-in-the-politics-of-climate-change-wrangling/">5% and 15% smaller</a> because of climate change.



Curbing the climate crisis requires creating awareness of the severity of climate change in Africa, reducing emissions from key industrial value chains, forest landscape restoration, and investing in low carbon transport amongst other crucial interventions.



While climate activists around the world continue to consistently urge world leaders and other relevant stakeholders to save our planet, combatting climate crisis requires a multi-disciplinary approach &#8211; collaboration between government, the private sector, activists, consumers, educational institutions and the media.



Through its expertise and resources, the private sector can be at the forefront of this major social transformation with real purpose. This should not be done as just a mere corporate box-ticking exercise, but should be seen as an opportunity to create a meaningful contribution and create a sustainable planet.



As a company born and bred in Africa, MultiChoice is invested in Africa and committed to help deliver a sustainable future for the continent. That is why it has decided to collaborate with The Earthshot Prize, an ambitious global environmental prize that aims to find innovative solutions to the world’s biggest environmental problems.



MultiChoice chose to partner with The Earthshot Prize because it has potential to make a massive positive impact in combatting climate challenge. Its approach of unearthing innovative climate change solutions and scale them up is what attracted us to this &nbsp;partnership. This approach recognises and support unique local solutions that speaks to communities at grassroots level and allows us to bring to bear our broadcasting expertise and experience in creating awareness and mobilizing communities to rally behind this cause.



The Earthshot Prize was launched in 2021 with three African organizations selected as finalists – Sanergy from Kenya, Reeddi Capsules from Nigeria, and Pole Pole Foundation from the Democratic Republic of Congo.



Sanergy, based in Nairobi, takes a circular economy approach to manage organic waste in Africa’s fast-growing cities by converting it into regenerative agricultural inputs – insect-based protein for animal feed, organic fertilizer for farming, and ecofuel.



Pole Pole Foundation is a grass roots NGO whose goal is to protect the critically endangered Eastern gorillas which live in the Kahuzi-Biega National Park, in the Democratic Republic of Congo.



Lastly, Reeddi leverages its proprietary technology to innovatively provide clean, reliable, and affordable electricity to individuals, households, and businesses operating in the energy-poor regions of the world. Currently, Reeddi serves more than 1000 combined households and businesses monthly in Nigeria.



These finalists have access to resources across numerous professions and sectors including manufacturing, retail, supply chains, legal advice, digital technology, business strategy and government relations.



As the climate crisis intensifies, it important that a common framework and network to address climate change risks is established and a new generation of climate change initiatives are being formed in Africa.



There are various initiatives and projects on the African continent to fight climate challenges. However, to be successful, most of the projects need capacity, improved decision making, policy mainstreaming and evidence-based decision making.



MultiChoice recognise the importance of collaboration and that is why it is a member of the Global Alliance Membership of the Earthshot Prize. This alliance has an extensive network &nbsp;that includes non-profit and international organizations committed to the environment and sustainable development.



Our partnership with the Earthshot Prize is about making a real impact and make the world a better place.&nbsp;



Collen Dlamini MultiChoice Group Corporate Executive for Corporate Affairs.

The Earthshot Prize @ Bomas of Kenya

Businesses have a key role to play in building a sustainable future

While South Africa’s airline industry has seen dramatic consolidation over the past few years, the gap left by shuttered local airlines has opened the doors for other carriers to meet the growing demand for seats as the country returns to pre-Covid travel. However, this increasingly competitive landscape is placing significant pressure on airline leaders to optimise their operations and improve customer satisfaction.



<a href="http://www.clickatell.com">Clickatell</a>, a CPaaS innovator and Chat Commerce leader, began work with South Africa&#8217;s favourite low-cost airline, FlySafair, in 2021, rolling out a <a href="https://www.clickatell.com/products/whatsapp/">WhatsApp</a> customer communication channel. The introduction of the chat platform has not only injected new efficiencies, but it has dramatically boosted customer satisfaction.



“As an airline obsessed with efficiency and maintaining our reputation for being the most on-time carrier, we are always looking for new ways to improve the customer journey and internal processes to ensure superior customer experiences. So when Clickatell approached us about their Chat Commerce Platform, we knew we had to jump at the opportunity,” explains Eswee Vorster, FlySafair Executive Manager and CIO.



Clickatell’s Chat Commerce platform has enabled FlySafair to expand their customer service offering to the popular WhatsApp channel which is <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/291540/mobile-internet-user-whatsapp/">used by</a> 96% of South Africa’s digital population.



“Today’s consumers want the flexibility and convenience of engaging with the brands they love and trust on the channels that they use every day. WhatsApp is the logical channel for us to reach our South African customers,” Vorster says.



His views are supported by <a href="https://www.clickatell.com/infographic/chat-commerce/trends-report-the-future-of-digital-commerce/">research</a> conducted by Clickatell which shows that 89% of consumers want to conduct business on chat channels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digital-solutions-that-make-life-easier">Digital solutions that make life easier</h2>



Like every airline, managing a busy call centre had been one of the biggest challenges for FlySafair. But, with more and more customers preferring to use digital channels to answer queries and solve their own problems, Vorster and his team were on the lookout for a solution that could help them deliver.



The airline’s busy call centre receives several thousand calls during a normal day, which can triple or even quadruple during promotions. Reducing the pressure on agents, as well as empowering customers to find answers to their queries and manage their bookings themselves, was an obvious priority for airline management.&nbsp;



Clickatell’s digital contact centre solution, <a href="https://www.clickatell.com/products/chat-desk/">Chat Desk</a>, which allows organisations to run and manage live agent support in chat, enable FlySafair to resolve customer queries faster, eliminate hold times, and taking the frustration and inconvenience out of the customer service experience.&nbsp;



Clickatell’s Chat Commerce workflow builder and automation tool, <a href="https://www.clickatell.com/products/chatflow/">Chat Flow</a> allows FlySafair teams to design intelligent self-service engagements for their customers.



The Clickatell solution makes it possible for FlySafair customers to find helpful information or connect with a customer service agent by simply sending “Hi” on <a href="https://wa.me/27873570030">WhatsApp</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;+27 87 357 0030.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A better experience from start to finish</h2>



FlySafair has invested significant time assessing how it can improve its offering across the digital journey, especially when it comes to busy holiday periods.



The FlySafair WhatsApp channel hosts key information about flight cancellations and changes, luggage restrictions, identity requirements, Covid-19 safety requirements, as well as the option to chat to a live agent. In addition, customers can also choose to receive their boarding pass on WhatsApp, significantly improving and streamlining the passenger experience.



Providing answers to frequently asked questions, self-serve options including boarding passes on WhatsApp reduces queues and improves the overall travel experience.



“Our customers can efficiently manage their travel experience in chat. From accessing helpful information, receiving their boarding passes, check-in via WhatsApp, and can even request a call back from a call centre agent if they need in-person support. As our <a href="https://www.clickatell.com/enterprise-solutions/chat-commerce/">Chat Commerce</a> Partner, Clickatell enables us to offer customer service more effectively and efficiently through WhatsApp,” Vorster says.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clickatell implementation forms a key part of FlySafair’s digital future.&nbsp;</h2>



“Constant technical innovation has enabled low-cost airlines to make their mark and truly compete with the established carriers. We see chat technology as a game changer for us going forward. Not only does it perform the basics very well, but it allows us to better understand travellers, taking us a step closer to a single view of our customer,” Vorster explains.&nbsp;



Reflecting on the partnership, Vorster says the companies’ comparable cultures have laid the foundations for an exciting future.



“I love the hands-on approach of the Clickatell team and their agile mindset fits perfectly with our culture of moving on opportunities when we see them. Clickatell helped us to completely transform our customer’s digital experience. Our goal is to offer all the functionality currently available on our website on WhatsApp,” Vorster shares.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Chat Commerce offers exciting use cases for the airline industry</h2>



Chat Commerce solutions are quickly gaining traction with companies across many sectors, helped in part by its scalability and rapid deployment capabilities.



Enterprises are able to launch a Chat Commerce solution in as little as two months with minimal disruption. This means companies can get started immediately and then refine their offering over time, making it perfect for airlines who cannot afford a single minute of downtime.



What’s more, the competitive nature of the airline industry lends itself perfectly to the many use cases of Chat Commerce and supporting automation, not least of all, the ability to upsell services.



Upselling over a known and trusted chat channel, like WhatsApp, is as simple as a quick text message. Once bookings are confirmed, travel agents and airlines can offer seat upgrades and even suggest places to stay at specific destinations, complete with special offers and promotions that passengers can take advantage of right then and there. In addition, by using payment links consumers can complete a travel related purchase within their favourite messaging channels.



Making payments over chat has already been warmly welcomed by travellers. Clickatell’s latest <a href="https://www.clickatell.com/press-center/travelers-embrace-mobile-messaging-and-payments/">Chat Commerce Trends Report: Travel Edition 2022</a>, found that 71% of consumers indicated that they are more willing to make a purchase with a travel company through a payment link only after chatting with a live agent or automated bot. By implementing a robust Chat Commerce solution, FlySafair has laid the groundwork for any number of future digital offerings. And, by choosing to work with <a href="https://www.clickatell.com/solutions/travel/">Clickatell</a>, they can rest assured that they can stay ahead of the competition without their passengers experiencing any unnecessary delays or cancellations.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Clickatell | Helping FlySafair Transform its Digital Experience for Travelers" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qMWufZlplQI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>

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FlySafair Works With Clickatell to Expand Its Customer Service Offering on WhatsApp

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Pic-2-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-420125" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Pic-2-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Pic-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Pic-2-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Pic-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Pic-2.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



The 2022 GovTech conference, a pre-eminent South African information communication technology focusing on public and private sector ICT service delivery, discussed how technology can facilitate socio economic transformation, drive Infrastructure development, and digitally transform the African continent.



Themed “Digitisation And Digitalisation Evolving Government Services,” the three-day conference held from September 13th to 15 at the Durban Exhibition Centre, was opened by Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and hosted by the State Information Technology Agency (SITA).



Experts, executives and government officials dedicated to driving digital transformation, included delegates from Namibia, Zambia and Burkina Faso. &nbsp;Government ministers included Zambia’s Minister of Science &amp; Technology, Felix Mutati and, Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr Peya Numushelenga.



Ntshavheni promised that the South African government was committed to delivering on broadband objectives as key enablers for the delivery of an economic step change for South Africa.



“South Africa is implementing a broadband connectivity drive through a programme we call South Africa (SA) Connect. The goal of SA Connect is to ensure that all South Africans have access to the internet,” said Ntshavheni.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-panel-discussions-and-tracks">PANEL DISCUSSIONS AND TRACKS</h2>



For three days, experts and representatives of all spheres of government and the private sector shared their experiences on leveraging technology.



Attended by more than 2500 delegates, including information technology experts and government ministers from across, the following panel and roundtable discussions kept delegates busy:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>“An Enabling Policy Environment for Sustainable Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises;</li><li>“Future of education: How Technology is shaping this key sector for economic and social development,</li><li>“Digital Inclusion: What will it take to get every citizen and every government service online;</li><li>“The Digital Infrastructure: Collaboration for an African backhaul and data centres infrastructure ecosystem and what are the Key Technologies to Enable African Governments&#8217; Digital Transformation;</li><li>“Leveraging the Potential of Digitalisation &amp; Disruptive Technologies for improving government services;</li><li>“Technologies for improving government services;</li><li>“Sustainable Smart Villages and Cities in Africa;</li><li>“Infrastructure and Digital Inclusion;</li><li>“Youth in Information Communication Technology;</li><li>“Cyber Security and Protection of the Customers and Citizens and</li><li>“How African States Can Improve Their Cybersecurity &#8211; Policy tools for African governments.”</li></ul>



&nbsp;“We cannot solve the technology issues that exist on our own. GovTech 2022 was therefore an important stepping stone in creating an eco-system for the public&nbsp; and &nbsp;private sector to come out with solutions which will work best for our unique challenges and partner together to overcome them,” said Molatlhegi Kgauwe, the Acting Managing Director of SITA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PLEDGE FOR THE FUTURE</h2>



During panel discussions, track sessions, speeches, delegates, government officials and executives representing information technology companies, gave honest accounts of how hard it actually was to make change happen, and offered some valuable insights from their experiences and amongst others, pledged to:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Design affordable services that best meet the needs of citizens across the continent;</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Challenge the technology market to offer the flexible tools and services citizens need;</li><li>Protect citizens’ privacy and security;</li><li>Strive towards a paperless government&nbsp;as a matter of urgency and</li><li>Deliver better value for money products to all Africans consumers whether living in rural or urban areas.</li></ul>



“GovTech 2022 provided us with a platform to plan the way forward on how to use ICT to improve the lives of Africans. We look forward to GovTech 2023,” said Kgauwe.

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GOVTECH 2022 PROVIDED A PLATFORM ON HOW TO USE TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF AFRICANS

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_4585-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-419871" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_4585-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_4585-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_4585-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_4585-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_4585-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_4585-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Transforming Africa / Sustainable Smart Villages in Africa



Introduction: In many ways we already live in smart cities, because we have fibre connectivity, e-billing and some service delivery via mobile phones. However, this is in the cities: villages and communities are on the wrong side of the digital divide. They might be able to access services via mobile technology in a limited fashion, but a real smart community needs substantial investment in support infrastructure and connectivity.



A definition of a smart city is an innovative city or community that uses information and communication technology (ICT) to deliver services and quality of life. In reality, there are unprecedented changes in urbanisation meaning the smart city concept should rather be used to transform urban life and create a digital society. Even though digitalisation is a feature of life in many places, there are still a number of elements preventing people from enjoying its benefits.



Sbu: One problem is we are trying to balance traditional operating systems with technology. Government usually works in silos; not only in its structure, but also its mindset. It will be difficult to change things; not only mindsets, but most cities already have existing infrastructure that will be disrupted if digital technologies are introduced. Also, as cities move to digital systems, it is about collecting data: where people live; how they live; what they spend and where they move. This means the higher the digitisation, the greater the threat to personal safety.



However, it is possible to use technology to enhance security such as encrypted techniques like blockchain. Essentially, one must balance the quality of life offered by digitalisation with privacy. One of the first tasks is educating citizens about the benefits of a smart city, while getting away from the perception a smart city is a “Big Brother”. In most cases implementing the smart city concept is not socially inclusive; it tends not to include the affluent or technologically advanced sectors of society.&nbsp;



Bongani: South Africa is not unique in its urban/rural distribution and, before we look at infrastructure, we must look at urban migration. In cities, one can use 4G and 5G, but in rural areas one should look at a broader range of technologies, such as satellite that can bring connectivity to rural areas.



The technology exists, but we don’t only look at technology; we must also look at co-operative models. We can look at combinations of satellite, towers, fibre and the like, but it is vital to consider costs. Connectivity must be affordable for someone getting a social grant.



Justin: A word of caution – even though smart cities depend on a broad range of support, the fundamentals of smart cities are the same as any city: electricity, roads, sewage, refuse collections and so on. Before looking at smart cities or villages, it is crucial that these foundations are properly laid.&nbsp;



These tasks are the responsibility of the private and public sector. When infrastructure is installed, it must be done to absorb the technology, so when electricity cables are laid, fibre must be installed simultaneously. This is easier when working in expanding cities, but the deepest need is in the rural areas, not the cities. There are various stakeholders to include and all must to primed and informed.&nbsp;



Bongani: In rural areas, people must travel far to access services. Already there are apps that can bring services to people and eradicate the need for travel or standing in queues. However, there is room to expand – like paying social grants directly into mobile wallets. There is an app on which you organise funerals. This gained traction especially after Covid-19. Anyone who has organised a funeral can attest to the cost and work involved. An app that does the work for you is useful.&nbsp;



Hence, if a community can operate on digital services, it cuts down on fuel and travelling costs. With the growth of e-commerce, the same principles can apply to smart services for municipalities. Of course, as mentioned, this increases the risks to privacy.



Justin: We can draw an analogy between our recovery from Covid-19 and the post-war recovery of countries after the two World Wars. A large part of the growth and recovery was massive infrastructure projects to kickstart economies and allow large numbers of people to return to normal life.



South Africa has significant opportunities for large capital investment projects that can combine the best of infrastructure development and the best of technology.&nbsp;



Bongani: There is a significant digital divide in South Africa. The minister has asked mobile tech companies to provide households with a threshold amount of free data and there is a business case to be made for that. South Africa is not known (to have) cheap data and this contributes toward the divide.&nbsp;



Sbu: Cyber security is the big issue. How do we protect our communities? As we implement more digitalisation, we expand the threat levels. As we build smart cities and villages, we acquire more data. This is necessary for services (and) government needs to understand the behaviour of citizens. This raises questions of privacy.



Not only are there threats to personal information, but to the operation of infrastructure linked to the grid also operating through the internet. We have seen pipelines and power grids can be vulnerable to cyber terrorism threats.&nbsp;



Justin: It is clear smart cities and communities are obliged to protect citizens and this is a massive responsibility. If you are introducing anyone to a smart city, you are introducing them to risk.&nbsp;



Bongani: There are two billion internet of things (IoT) devices globally and South Africa has 32 mega-developments in the pipeline. These will require bulk water services and service delivery and will accommodate around 10000 households. That’s a lot of data: there will be addresses, banking information, personal information and sites of critical infrastructure. The numbers stack up.&nbsp;



What happens if that gets hacked? Hackers don’t sleep; they want that data. If it was hacked, water stops flowing; bank accounts are compromised. We need to look at a new social compact between government and service providers and communities. We need to start with a framework that protects that information.&nbsp;

IMG_4585

The State IT Agency’s GovTech Conference 2022

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ministers-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-419853" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ministers-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ministers-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ministers-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ministers-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ministers-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/ministers-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>SITA, chairperson, Makano Mosidi, the Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Peya Mushelenga and  Zambia’s Minister of Science &amp; Technology, Felix Mutati.</figcaption></figure>



Opening GovTech, the continent&#8217;s premier information communication technology conference, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, the Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies pledged that the government was focusing its efforts on being paperless by the end of the 6th administration.



Supported by the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) chairperson, Makano Mosidi and delegates from across the African continent, including Zambia’s Minister of Science &amp; Technology, Felix Mutati and Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Peya Mushelenga, Minister Ntshavheni told  2500 delegates including sponsors that the digitalisation programme aims to have 80% of citizen-facing services to be online by 2025, with government planning to go paperless by end the 6th administration



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digitally-inclusive-information-society">DIGITALLY INCLUSIVE INFORMATION SOCIETY</h2>



As part of the SA Connect strategy driven by SITA, the national broadband programme has been identified by government to meet the technology goals of the National Development Plan of creating a digitally inclusive information society.



“The evolving nature of doing business has set in motion the need to evolve government services for the shifting delivery platforms, service and content packing, and skills and capabilities needed to build, grow and sustain government services and societal development,” said Minister Ntshavheni.



Part of our priorities in evolving government services is supporting the development and consumption of African- developed digital products and services, not only through DigiTech App Store but all technology and solutions developed indigenously in Africa by both big and small industry players,” she said.



The GovTech’s three-day event features plenary sessions and presentations on the theme “Digitisation and digitalisation evolving government services, heard that the broadband connectivity programme will be implemented through emerging and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) such as internet service providers, wireless access providers and mobile virtual network operators.



The Government and ICT experts are meeting at the Durban Exhibition Centre until Thursday September 15th to collaborate and share experiences, challenges and solutions that can demonstrate the power of technology, improve service delivery and boost economic growth.



Expanding the use of digital technologies in the public service after the pandemic, assessing how digital solutions can stimulate the economy and supporting the development of small and medium-sized businesses will be among the key topics for discussion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">DIGITISATION VERSUS DIGITILISATION</h2>



Current issues related to cyber security and digital privacy, digital inclusion and pan-African cooperation will also be discussed during the round tables.



Unpacking the difference between digitisation and digitilisation, the SITA chairperson said digitization referred to changes within organisations for efficiency while digitalization referred to changing business models, creating new rules “starting to design from outside in.”



“Our theme aim to answer questions such as:  What do our citizens want? How do we design and co-design and collaborate with them and for them so that we can come from outside in….I trust and I hope that the conference participants over the next three days will take stock and address specific government issues and challenges with boldness,” she said.



Pull-out quote: “Part of our priorities in evolving government services is supporting the development and consumption of African- developed digital products and services&#8230;” Ntshavheni.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Choir-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-419852" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Choir-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Choir-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Choir-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Choir-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Choir-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Choir-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>The Ndlovu youth choir entertained GovTeh delegates</figcaption></figure>

ministers

GOVERNMENT FOCUSING ON BEING PAPERLESS BY END OF SIXTH ADMINISTRATION

05 September 2022 &#8211; The 2022 Government Technology (GovTech) conference will see representatives and ministers from various countries in Africa converge in South Africa to share their vision, knowledge, experience and expertise on digitisation, digitalisation, and other topics critical for the acceleration of digital transformation and service delivery in Africa. 



Under this year’s theme: “Digitisation and Digitalisation &#8211; Evolving Government Services,” the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), in partnership with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, will host GovTech conference from 13 – 15 September 2022 at the Durban Exhibition Centre.



The conference will be attended by more than 2500 delegates, bringing together Africa’s ICT experts from the public and private sectors, as well as the Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises&nbsp;(SMME) sector to focus among other things, on ICT infrastructure development and how technology can enable efficient dispensing of government services.



Structured in various tracks and topics, the conference program will provide options to delegates to participate in various streams and contribute towards reshaping the ICT agenda in Africa.



The panel and roundtable discussions, promise to be exciting as it includes these areas:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>An Enabling Policy Environment for Sustainable Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises;</li><li>Future of Education: How Technology is shaping this key sector for economic and social development;</li><li>Digital Inclusion: What will it take to get every citizen and every government service online;</li><li>The Digital Infrastructure: Collaboration for an African backhaul and data centres infrastructure ecosystem: Key Technologies to Enable African Governments&#8217; Digital Transformation;</li><li>Leveraging the Potential of Digitalisation &amp; Disruptive Technologies for improving government services;</li><li>Technologies for improving government services;</li><li>Sustainable Smart Villages and Cities in Africa;</li><li>Infrastructure and Digital Inclusion;</li><li>Youth in Information Communication Technology;</li><li>“Cyber Security and Protection of the Customers and Citizens and</li><li>“How African States Can Improve Their Cybersecurity &#8211; Policy tools for African governments.”</li></ul>







Several private and public sector experts have been invited. Some of the ministers invited include, Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga and Zambia’s Minister of Science &amp; Technology, Felix Mutati.



The event is supported by Microsoft SA as a lead sponsor. Huawei, Sentech, MTN, Vodacom and In2ITfollow as key sponsors.



GovTech, which has been held for 14 years, is the brainchild of SITA. Over the years, the conference, has evolved to become a premiere conference, as a superior networking platform, a hub of strategic ideas and a crucible that pioneers innovative thinking and solutions, to address the developmental and growth challenges in the country.



Molatlhegi Kgauwe,&nbsp;the Acting Managing Director for SITA said through innovation and SMME development,digital technologies open up new avenues for economic prosperity, innovation, job creation, and service access and the more SMMEs are exposed to these infrastructures, the wider the net of opportunities is cast.



“Besides people, infrastructure is the bedrock and the backbone of a country. The synergy between infrastructure development and information technology is critical to enable rapid progress, to leverage opportunities, and to provide solutions to the country and nation’s most pressing challenges.”



As the digital world grows bigger, through cybersecurity, thegovernments have to ensure that citizens can conduct business, communicate, and interact in a safe, agile, flexible and secure environment.



“Ultimately the aim is digital Inclusion and collaboration to enable the continent – wide connectivity and solutions, and to provide skills and service delivery to all so that Africa and indeed South Africa is positioned as a leader of service delivery; in the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” said Kgauwe,&nbsp;



To register for the conference, delegates can visit <a href="http://www.govtech.gov.za">www.govtech.gov.za</a>. Attendees and members of the public across the continent can follow Govtech 2022 by using the hashtags<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/govtech2022?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVDhKhLI4-87zdPH3oU-gSG8Snrj2V93UjKMhd-O6T3rbNBGc4-3X71tzpEhC6V1UAw1h7_7CZrF5QRuLWDXmLhNomJ49BcV4PjbWQXXZCi3udEcT2PRi_Ad35CxvRHsX20tVI5KFDL2Por5YCUW5atn9bUKGqVfCI6KHdR034gGw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#GovTech2022</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/techevent?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVDhKhLI4-87zdPH3oU-gSG8Snrj2V93UjKMhd-O6T3rbNBGc4-3X71tzpEhC6V1UAw1h7_7CZrF5QRuLWDXmLhNomJ49BcV4PjbWQXXZCi3udEcT2PRi_Ad35CxvRHsX20tVI5KFDL2Por5YCUW5atn9bUKGqVfCI6KHdR034gGw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#TechEvent</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/digitaltransformation?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVDhKhLI4-87zdPH3oU-gSG8Snrj2V93UjKMhd-O6T3rbNBGc4-3X71tzpEhC6V1UAw1h7_7CZrF5QRuLWDXmLhNomJ49BcV4PjbWQXXZCi3udEcT2PRi_Ad35CxvRHsX20tVI5KFDL2Por5YCUW5atn9bUKGqVfCI6KHdR034gGw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#DigitalTransformation</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/techinafrica?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVDhKhLI4-87zdPH3oU-gSG8Snrj2V93UjKMhd-O6T3rbNBGc4-3X71tzpEhC6V1UAw1h7_7CZrF5QRuLWDXmLhNomJ49BcV4PjbWQXXZCi3udEcT2PRi_Ad35CxvRHsX20tVI5KFDL2Por5YCUW5atn9bUKGqVfCI6KHdR034gGw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#TechInAfrica</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/4ir?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVDhKhLI4-87zdPH3oU-gSG8Snrj2V93UjKMhd-O6T3rbNBGc4-3X71tzpEhC6V1UAw1h7_7CZrF5QRuLWDXmLhNomJ49BcV4PjbWQXXZCi3udEcT2PRi_Ad35CxvRHsX20tVI5KFDL2Por5YCUW5atn9bUKGqVfCI6KHdR034gGw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#4IR</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/ai?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVDhKhLI4-87zdPH3oU-gSG8Snrj2V93UjKMhd-O6T3rbNBGc4-3X71tzpEhC6V1UAw1h7_7CZrF5QRuLWDXmLhNomJ49BcV4PjbWQXXZCi3udEcT2PRi_Ad35CxvRHsX20tVI5KFDL2Por5YCUW5atn9bUKGqVfCI6KHdR034gGw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#AI</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/hyperautomation?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVDhKhLI4-87zdPH3oU-gSG8Snrj2V93UjKMhd-O6T3rbNBGc4-3X71tzpEhC6V1UAw1h7_7CZrF5QRuLWDXmLhNomJ49BcV4PjbWQXXZCi3udEcT2PRi_Ad35CxvRHsX20tVI5KFDL2Por5YCUW5atn9bUKGqVfCI6KHdR034gGw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#Hyperautomation</a> and&nbsp; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/quantumcomputing?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVDhKhLI4-87zdPH3oU-gSG8Snrj2V93UjKMhd-O6T3rbNBGc4-3X71tzpEhC6V1UAw1h7_7CZrF5QRuLWDXmLhNomJ49BcV4PjbWQXXZCi3udEcT2PRi_Ad35CxvRHsX20tVI5KFDL2Por5YCUW5atn9bUKGqVfCI6KHdR034gGw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#QuantumComputing</a>.



For more information contact:



Head of Corporate Affairs: Tlali Tlali (Mr) Tel: (012) 482-2996 Cell: 082 3333 880 Email: <a href="mailto:Tlali.Tlali@sita.co.za">Tlali.Tlali@sita.co.za</a>

Continent

GOVTECH 2022 BRINGS AFRICA’S ICT MINISTERS AND EXPERTS TO TACKLE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ON THE CONTINENT

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="488" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_4824-820x488.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-419355" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_4824-820x488.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_4824-300x179.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_4824-151x90.jpg 151w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_4824-768x457.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_4824-1536x914.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC_4824-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



It’s the first time the group has received the honour.



ON OUR FIRST ATTEMPT, ABSA ACHIEVED TOP Employer certification in five markets, positioning the business as a Top Employer in Africa.



The Absa Group is now:



• Top Employer South Africa 2022



• Top Employer Zambia 2022



• Top Employer Kenya 2022



• Top Employer Ghana 2022



• Top Employer Botswana 2022



Absa has been recognised not only for matching rigorous global benchmarks, but also for exceeding these in several categories including digital HR, learning, career development, and ethics and integrity. “We’re so proud of the contribution of our business leaders and our People and Culture Function,” says Thokozile Lewanika Mpupuni, Absa Group Head of Leadership, Learning and Talent. “Absa is determined to bring possibilities to life, and this award underscores our commitment to, and progress in building an organisation that recognises that people are our strength.”



Culture is an essential element to win the hearts and minds of employees. It brings a collective energy and cohesion that is required for organisational success. “Our culture has the power to differentiate Absa in an increasingly dynamic environment where we compete for the best talent. That talent is essential to drive innovation and agility,” says Mpupuni.



Absa’s culture transformation journey began in 2018 with its historic separation from Barclays PLC. This resulted in a repositioning in the market, a new brand, refreshed values and a purpose that emphasises possibility. “Because of leadership’s strong impact on culture, we invested in a senior leadership culture program that started in 2020.The ability of our leaders to embody and present the Absa we aspire to has far-reaching effects throughout our entire organisation,” says Mpupuni. This program is based on similar successful global interventions at organisations such as Google, Nike and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and it includes training leaders in conversational technology.



Other culture initiatives include team values workshops, team culture and identity workshops. Absa emphasises listening and language capabilities that empower colleagues to actively participate in the creation and development of the organisational culture. Absa’s Colleague Experience Survey, initiated during 2020, is an important opportunity for employees to raise their voices and be heard, and the business receives actionable insights to continuously enhance the everyday lived experience of individuals. “We’re ensuring that we continuously listen and get feedback from our people. By listening to each other, we help make sense of our world, foster trust in our relationships and, in turn serve our people with a genuine intention to bring about real change that makes a difference,” says Mpupuni.



Even though the new Absa has not yet reached its desired cultural maturity, the foundation has been laid to inspire purpose, create a shared value approach to business, and foster a future-fit, learning organisation. “We’re all co-owners of culture and when we show up with a sense of personal responsibility for shared outcomes, that’s when we start to see change. The Top Employer Africa certification signals this shift,” concludes Mpupuni.



Absa’s People and Culture Function will continue to focus on holistic wellbeing, diversity and inclusion, new ways of work, workforce future-fitness and culture to ensure that Africa’s top talent is able to thrive and bring possibility to life for themselves, and for the stakeholders we serve.

DSC_4824

Absa Is A Top Employer Africa

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="429" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/HP-Image-1200x628-1-820x429.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-419109" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/HP-Image-1200x628-1-820x429.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/HP-Image-1200x628-1-300x157.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/HP-Image-1200x628-1-160x84.jpg 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/HP-Image-1200x628-1-768x402.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/HP-Image-1200x628-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



HP has revealed the results of its first education-focused survey in Africa, which sheds light on teachers’ skillsets and how learning experiences for students can be improved in South Africa and Nigeria. The research supports HP’s education programme in Africa, which aims to provide the right technology and skills to the education sector.



As the effects of the pandemic continue to be felt on the education system, schools must navigate the imperative to catch up with national curriculums whilst providing future-proof classrooms and learning environments.



“Teachers perform a pivotal function in our society, not only in shaping the minds of future leaders and preparing students to take on the jobs of the future, but also inspiring and enabling better learning outcomes,” says Brad Pulford, Managing Director of HP Africa.



Understanding the realities of 21st-century teaching, 10 skills were identified in the study as crucial to future proofing learning. The majority (7 in 10) of teachers surveyed agreed that creative, innovative, critical, and entrepreneurial thinking, as well as digital literacy, are very important.



Crucially, one in three teachers say they could benefit from additional training to improve their skills in the above-mentioned areas, and that the development would have an enormous impact on the pedagogy.



Access to adequate resources and technology is key



Educators face numerous challenges which can negatively affect teaching outcomes, such as a lack of basic materials. 82% of teachers surveyed noted access to instructional materials and supplies as a problem, and a further 89% said access to adequate technological resources is an issue – a crucial aspect of teaching that has been overlooked for over a decade but has been brought to the fore by the pandemic.



Still, an overwhelming majority, 95%, believes that technology can have a positive benefit in the teaching environment and can raise learners’ engagement in lessons.



The Covid-19 pandemic thrust the importance of technology in classrooms into the spotlight, bringing new opportunities and pressures to teachers around the world. The shift has not been without difficulties, with 45% teachers ranking ICT skills as a challenging facet of the role – outpacing other elements like active teaching, homework marking and lesson planning. At the same time, 85% of survey respondents confirmed new skills in this area would have the greatest influence in their ability to teach.



Beyond technology, at least 50% of teachers report having too many learners in their classrooms which impedes quality learning, and 71% say they require more time to assist individual learners. Luckily, despite these challenges at least 95% of teachers are optimistic about their jobs and roles in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fit-for-purpose">Fit for purpose</h2>



HP’s Innovation and Digital Education Academy (<a href="https://www.hp.com/emea_africa-en/solutions/education/idea-fellows.html">HP IDEA</a>) programme plays a critical role to bridge the skills gap – in fact, it forms part of HP’s goal to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030.



This immersive teacher development programme is designed to enable educators to develop and access new learning modalities in select schools in South Africa, Nigeria, and other 14 markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia.



“Through the <a href="https://www.hp.com/emea_africa-en/solutions/education/idea-fellows.html">HP IDEA</a> programme, our aim is to ensure that educators are equipped with the latest tools and best practices in teaching and learning, and ensure they too are ‘future-fit’. Understanding the educational landscape and where we can provide support and expertise is key to its success,” Pulford adds.



Pulford concludes: “We aim to expand and evolve HP IDEA through partnerships with local governments and complementary support for educators to ensure that drives results in the lives of pupils – collective action will make a real impact.”

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GOVERNMENT FOCUSING ON BEING PAPERLESS BY END OF SIXTH ADMINISTRATION

GOVTECH 2022 BRINGS AFRICA’S ICT MINISTERS AND EXPERTS TO TACKLE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ON THE CONTINENT

Absa Is A Top Employer Africa

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Advertise With Us

Brandcom Partner

Supporting The African Education Community To Achieve Its Goals Through EdTech

Changing Lives One Family At A Time

Financing the Just Energy Transition for Africa’s Emerging Markets

Our connected future

Digital and financial skills – part of the journey to greater equity and inclusion

Nothing should get in the way of getting business done

Increasing energy access: The rise of pay-as-you-go solar and innovative payment methods

Investing in Africa energy – the carbon conundrum

Solutions to greater Joburg’s infrastructure challenges

Businesses have a key role to play in building a sustainable future

FlySafair Works With Clickatell to Expand Its Customer Service Offering on WhatsApp

GOVTECH 2022 PROVIDED A PLATFORM ON HOW TO USE TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF AFRICANS

The State IT Agency’s GovTech Conference 2022

GOVERNMENT FOCUSING ON BEING PAPERLESS BY END OF SIXTH ADMINISTRATION

GOVTECH 2022 BRINGS AFRICA’S ICT MINISTERS AND EXPERTS TO TACKLE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ON THE CONTINENT

Absa Is A Top Employer Africa

African teachers want to become future-fit with more “soft skills” training

News Tips

Advertise With Us

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