<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/wmp-9109-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-508505" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/wmp-9109-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/wmp-9109-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/wmp-9109-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/wmp-9109-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/wmp-9109-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/wmp-9109-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rassem Zok &#8211; Chief Executive, Middle East, Standard Bank Group</figcaption></figure>



Africa has made significant progress in terms of infrastructure development, committing billions of dollars to improve its transportation, energy, water, and digital networks. This infrastructure boom is crucial for boosting economic growth, creating jobs, and reducing poverty across the continent. With the right investments and reforms, Africa can build the modern infrastructure needed to boost trade, create jobs, and transform the continent&#8217;s economic prospects.



Yet current investment still falls far short of demand. According to the African Development Bank, the continent has a $100 billion annual shortfall in infrastructure financing. This infrastructure gap is not only impacting lives today, but also significantly curtailing the continent’s potential for economic, entrepreneurial, and developmental progress. The African Union estimates that inadequate infrastructure has led to the reduction of national economic growth by 2% annually in most African countries and as much as 40% reduction in industrial productivity.



If we manage to close this gap, we unlock the immense potential of infrastructure – and especially sustainable infrastructure – to drive growth and development on the continent. There is a real desire amongst state-owned companies (SOCs) to do so, and an increasing awareness amongst investors of the alignment of interests that opportunities in African infrastructure represent.



We have noticed, in particular that Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have stepped up their investments in Africa as they look to diversify their own economies. The GCC&#8217;s strategic policy priorities and economic diversification interests align perfectly with the opportunity to support Africa&#8217;s development agenda, and the GCC is equipped with the technical expertise and financial resources necessary to bridge Africa’s investment gap through innovative public-private partnerships (PPPs).



Over the past decade, the GCC has emerged as a major investor across Africa, with a growing number of trade deals finalised that significantly benefit both regions. Dubai is increasingly establishing itself as the gateway to African investment. Investing in Africa, and developing relationships with SOCs and financial institutions, allows GCC nations to access new markets, expand business operations, and secure access to abundant natural resources. The GCC states generally have superb relationships with many of the 20 countries in which our Group has a universal presence, which is an important foundation for the development of effective PPPs and direct investment projects.



&nbsp;Iconic transactions of late include the acquisition of Imperial Logistics, a South African logistics operator, by DP World, the global infrastructure-led supply chain solutions provider based in Dubai. As a result of this transaction, DP World gained a stronger foothold in Africa and Imperial Logistics benefitted from DP World&#8217;s leading technology, global networks, and key trade-lane volumes. It’s a win for DP World and Imperial Logistics – the two are clients of the bank.



Another success has been our partnership with DP World to offer trade finance solutions to African SMEs, which will help in closing the gap in unmet demand for working capital on the continent. This partnership reflects our strategic vision of driving Africa’s growth, and is a demonstration of our commitment, as Africa’s largest bank, to the transition of financial services to platform-based ecosystems and to the improvement of client experiences.



ESG and the broad-scale sustainable impact of our work is a key focus area for Standard Bank, and this aligns with the appetitive for sustainability that we’ve seen from the UAE. UAE investors are sophisticated supporters of the vision of more circular economies and are making a demonstrable impact in enabling a just transition for the continent.



Spurred by the benefits of economic diversification, GCC countries are actively investing in high-growth sectors such as clean energy, manufacturing, and logistics, while also committing to sustainable development projects including food and water security. Against this backdrop, the opportunities in African infrastructure align seamlessly with the GCC states&#8217; multi-sectoral investment appetite.



We have, for the past four years, facilitated the State-Owned Company Investment Summit, which introduces large sovereign-owned companies to investors from the MENA region. Each year we record tangible, significant successes as a result of the summit.



It was as a result of last year’s Investment Summit that Standard Bank was able to facilitate a unique syndication facility for the Development Bank of Southern Africa in the UAE. The US$255 million facility was the first of its kind to be successfully accessed by a South African state-owned entity in the UAE and broader Middle East/North Africa (MENA) markets, representing a milestone for both DBSA and for South African fundraising initiatives in the UAE.



Standard Bank and UAE-based Mashreq were joint lead mandated arrangers in a deal which was oversubscribed, demonstrating significant market interest from UAE investors and the MENA broader region. The DBSA mandated Standard Bank to act as the mandated lead arranger to anchor and raise US dollar liquidity to diversify its global investor base.



Standard Bank is actively involved in supporting effective PPPs by demonstrating the economic value that derives from these projects, and through the rigorous governance structures that we’ve optimised. Risk is managed through an end-to-end process that takes deep cognisance of the value chains that are required for doing business in Africa, and which gives our partners comfort and security and the confidence to engage in these beneficial transactions.



There is nothing exceptional in terms of the risk projects face in Africa. What is unique is the degree to which local knowledge is able to ameliorate risk. In more mature markets, there isn’t the same degree of guidance required. In Africa, an experienced hand guiding the process is far more valuable.



Doing business in Africa requires an understanding of cultural sensitivities and experience as to what works. Africa is not a country: it is a continent made up of 54 disparate nations with unique operating environments. Our continental expertise is born of on-the-ground experience and a commitment to innovative, world-leading funding and risk-management solutions.



We believe in Africa, and we&#8217;re committed to its success. The vast proportion of our balance sheet is deployed in Africa. We have 50 000 experienced, knowledgeable staff who drive our return on equity. We have a universal presence in 20 African countries. We have offices in Dubai, Beijing, London and New York, and expect our new representative office to be opened in Egypt by year end. This will allow us to capitalise on the significant emergence of the Gulf–sub-Saharan-Africa–Egypt corridors, and further support our clients in those corridors.



The future looks bright for the cross-border opportunities available across Africa. As the largest bank in Africa, our largest stakeholder, in a sense, is the continent itself. That awareness drives our partnerships with multinationals, regional corporates, state structures and sovereign funds to enable cross-border flows – because they are critical catalysts of African growth and significant opportunities for value creation.

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Unlocking continental potential: The importance of local knowledge in African infrastructure investment

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1365" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-4498-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-508128" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-4498-scaled.jpg 2048w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-4498-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-4498-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-4498-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-4498-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-4498-1536x1024.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></figure>



Abuja, Nigeria, July 15, 2024 – About 600 stakeholders from over 30 countries in Africa and beyond came together from July 8 to 10 at the inaugural Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference in Abuja, Nigeria, to discuss education technology for resilient and inclusive learning in Africa. Participants reached a consensus that integrating technology into learning systems in Africa is now a necessity, not a luxury.



Hosted in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria, the conference concluded with a collective call to action on 10 recommendations for governments and other EdTech stakeholders.



“Investing in education in Africa is not only about Africa; rather, it is about investing in human capital for the world. It is also about building resilience in our learning systems to better prepare us for future shocks such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. This is why the Mastercard Foundation is committed to working with partners to scale education initiatives and enable innovations that foster the integration of technology into learning systems,” Peter Materu, Chief Program Officer at the Mastercard Foundation, told participants while underscoring education as the key to building an inclusive and resilient society and the urgent need for investments in education to skill Africa’s young people.



Nigeria’s Federal Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, stated, &#8220;technology isn’t just a tool; it is a powerful incentive that empowers students and ignites their passion for learning.”



“Inclusion is the cornerstone of EdTech,” added Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Federal Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. “If we fail to reach all learners, we fail to fulfill our potential to revolutionize education.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1345" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240708_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-Edtech-3332-1-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-508129" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240708_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-Edtech-3332-1-scaled.jpg 2048w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240708_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-Edtech-3332-1-300x197.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240708_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-Edtech-3332-1-820x539.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240708_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-Edtech-3332-1-137x90.jpg 137w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240708_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-Edtech-3332-1-768x504.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240708_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-Edtech-3332-1-1536x1009.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></figure>



Participants proposed the following recommendations as guidance to national decision-making to advance the building of an impactful EdTech ecosystem in Africa.



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Champion local innovation through supportive EdTech policies, with governments as leaders, proactive enablers, and consumers of quality content and delivery mechanisms.</li>



<li>Harmonize cross-sector policy by coordinating inter-ministerial strategies, plans, and initiatives on technology-enabled access to education for all.</li>



<li>Underwrite foundational infrastructure through creative use of resources such as Universal Service Funds to invest in electricity, the internet, devices, and dedicated infrastructure for education programs.</li>



<li>Drive decisions with data by investing in government systems and capabilities for timely collection, analysis, and informed decision-making.</li>



<li>Enhance delivery capacity along the EdTech value chain by upskilling teachers to deliver learning using EdTech and supporting leaders in education systems to work with tech-enabled processes and data.</li>



<li>Systematize EdTech integration by introducing (where nonexistent) and enforcing clear, context-relevant standards for technology integration into the educational curriculum.</li>



<li>Guide context-relevant innovation with clear and timely guidelines and approval processes for content, tools, and licenses to encourage innovation, investment, and technology mainstreaming.</li>



<li>Diversify learning pathways for out-of-school youth by developing flexible technology-enabled alternatives for learning, accredited certification, and re-entry to the formal education system.</li>



<li>Lower access barriers to EdTech through strategic private-public partnerships that support responsive, evidence-based policy and affordable solutions for all.</li>



<li>Embed responsive inclusivity (gender equity, persons with disabilities and refugees and displaced persons) in policy and innovation processes, centering and engaging diverse young people throughout development and delivery.</li>
</ol>



Referencing the African Union’s 2024 Year of Education, discussions at the conference focused on the state of EdTech in Africa, assessment of technology-enabled solutions to the continent’s education challenges, data evidence, collaborations, funding, and opportunities to tap into emerging technologies to accelerate the skilling of young people, particularly young women.



Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Nigeria’s Federal Minister of Youth Development, emphasized the need to prioritize inclusiveness in education reform. “All voices, especially voices of young women, need to be included in the formulation of policies for them to be effective,” she noted.



The African Union’s Special Youth Envoy, Chido Mpemba, noted that “accessible innovations can be global in outlook while also being deeply rooted in the needs of Africa’s young population.”



African-led EdTech entrepreneurs exhibited their solutions at the conference to demonstrate how efforts to encourage impactful education innovation can deliver the future of learning.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1365" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-3991-3-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-508134" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-3991-3-scaled.jpg 2048w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-3991-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-3991-3-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-3991-3-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-3991-3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/240709_HM-At-Mastercard-Foundation-EdTech-Conference-2024-Day-2-3991-3-1536x1024.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></figure>



The recommendations from the conference were shared at the 3rd Ministerial Forum on EdTech in Africa, which took place at the conclusion of the conference. Three of the recommendations were prioritized for concrete action between now and the next Forum:



⦁ Developing strategies and policies to integrate EdTech into learning systems. ⦁ The need to enhance quality education data and accompanying analytical skills for evidence-based decision-making. ⦁ Addressing the challenge of out-of-school children and youth in Africa, which currently stands at 108m and is growing.



Through its Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning, the Mastercard Foundation strategically partners to foster innovation, share best practices, conduct research, and convene events such as the EdTech Conference to advance inclusive education, especially for underserved learners. Speaking about the recently concluded conference in Abuja, Joseph Nsengimana, the Director of the Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning, said, “The collective commitment to advancing education through the power of technology promises to significantly transform the educational landscape, ensuring that Africa&#8217;s youth are well-equipped for the future.”



The next EdTech Conference is planned for 2026, the year the Mastercard Foundation marks its 20th anniversary.

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Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference in Abuja Ends with 10 Recommendations for Delivering the Future of Learning in Africa

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McDonald’s South Africa and its suppliers emphasized their transparency journey, aimed at educating customers about the quality and sustainable sourcing of its food.



The customer of today is increasingly interested in where their food comes from, what is in it and how it is prepared. These questions are easily answered when the food is prepared by them in their homes but this is nearly impossible when it’s not.



Food consciousness continues to influence market maturity amongst customers who have shifted from the narrative of aesthetically-pleasing food to a more responsible consumer outlook.



This trend, which has given rise to heightened individual senses of responsibility when it comes to where food comes from, means that customers now care more about the value chain and what goes into their meals. Factors such as sustainability, sourcing, farming techniques, packaging and the actual nature of the ingredients continue to be heightened and influence where customers buy their meals.



“We are cognisant of our customers&#8217; needs. Increasingly, our customers are very discerning about the food they consume. They want transparency and more information to make informed food choices. Through Know Our Food, we hope to demonstrate our pride in the food we serve to them,” says Daniel Padiachy, Chief Marketing Officer at McDonald’s South Africa.



“Our top priority is serving customers great-tasting, quality food. We believe in serving food in a way that supports quality ingredients, as well as sourcing beef, chicken and fresh produce from farmers who share the same values as we do.”



McDonald’s sources from, invests and collaborates with partners and suppliers who align with these values, while supporting projects and initiatives designed to help build a thriving, resilient food system.



Here are just a few of the supplier partnerships:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Beef is sourced from beef farmers in South Africa, such as the Fouries, who are committed to ethical and sustainable farming practices.</li>



<li>The Rametses are one of the nurturing chicken farmers who provide great quality chicken for the much-loved McDonald’s chicken meals.</li>



<li>McDonald’s takes its coffee seriously – from it’s sourced to how it’s brewed. That’s why every freshly-ground McCafé® coffee uses 100% responsibly-sourced Arabica beans grown on Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farms.</li>
</ul>



“‘Know Our Food’ represents our on-going commitment to transparency and customer satisfaction; we want our customers to feel confident about the food choices they make at McDonald’s, knowing that we prioritize quality, food safety, transparency, and responsible sourcing,” concludes Padiachy.



To learn more about the McDonald’s ‘Know Our Food’ initiative, please visit <a href="http://www.knowourfood.co.za">www.knowourfood.co.za</a>.

How A Fast Food Giant Is Demonstrating Pride In The Food They Serve

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Ghana to Regain Momentum in 2025 as ECOWAS Gateway

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="528" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/logo-820x528.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-501178" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/logo-820x528.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/logo-300x193.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/logo-140x90.jpg 140w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/logo-768x495.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/logo.jpg 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is now ranked number one in South Africa and on the African continent among universities that are younger than 50 years worldwide, according to the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/2024/young-university-rankings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings</a>,&nbsp;released on May 14, 2024. UJ has also achieved its highest-ever position, soaring to 60th place among universities in the same category.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-huge-improvement">Huge improvement</h2>



This marks a significant leap from the university’s previous ranking in the 151-200 band, demonstrating its relentless commitment to student success, cutting-edge research and societal impact.



UJ also claimed the top spot in Africa and South Africa, reaffirming its standing in the region. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/2024/young-university-rankings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">THE Young University Rankings</a>&nbsp;assess universities across key pillars including teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international outlook, providing a comprehensive evaluation of institutional performance.



The 2024 ranking includes 673 universities, up from 605 in 2023. A further 499 institutions are listed with “reporter” status, meaning that they provided data but did not meet our eligibility criteria to receive a rank.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-excellence">Global excellence</h2>



This recognition of UJ by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/2024/young-university-rankings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">THE Young University Rankings</a>&nbsp;highlights the university’s rapid growth and outstanding potential in the global academic arena. Despite its relatively short history of 20 years of existence, UJ has demonstrated exceptional progress, challenging well-established institutions, some of which have more than a century of legacy.



In addition to its remarkable performance in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/2024/young-university-rankings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">THE rankings</a>, UJ has also secured a notable global position of 624 in the&nbsp;<a href="https://cwur.org/2024.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for World University Rankings (CWUR)</a>&nbsp;for 2024. With a staggering 20,966 institutions evaluated for the 2024 edition of the CWUR, this assessment stands as one of the largest academic rankings of global universities.



Only the top 2,000 institutions from this rigorous evaluation attained a coveted spot on the published global list. &nbsp;UJ’s consistent upward trajectory in the CWUR reinforces its status as a premier educational institution in South Africa and beyond.



Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UJ, expressed his delight in the University’s latest achievements.



“These rankings are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, and students. UJ remains resolute in its mission to deliver world-class education, drive impactful research and innovation that contributes to societal advancement,” he says.



“Our progress is not just about numbers and figures; it’s all about the positive and lasting impact we have on our students and the broader society.”



<a href="https://uj.ac.za/possibilities/">Learn more</a> about UJ here.

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The University of Johannesburg Celebrates Rise In Global Rankings

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At its annual customer engagement and thought leadership conference in Southern Africa, the Mastercard Indaba 2024, Gabriel Swanepoel, Country Manager for Southern Africa at Mastercard, sheds light on the technological advancements and economic evolution shaping the continent. Swanepoel highlights Mastercard’s commitment to utilizing technology to enhance cybersecurity, support SMEs, and drive financial inclusion across Africa.



As the digital landscape in Africa continues to transform and evolve, challenges like cybersecurity and customer experience become increasingly critical. Swanepoel highlights the importance of deploying fit-for-purpose technology to ensure safety and efficiency in digital transactions.



“We live in a world that is more interconnected than ever. But the reality of it is that we are also more exposed to bad actors. Mastercard’s commitment is to ensure the financial safety of all stakeholders operating within the ecosystem by innovating tools that facilitate secure and easy transactions—this is crucial for both merchants and consumers alike,” Swanepoel explains.



“The key to growth is access,” &nbsp;Swanepoel states as he talks about Mastercard’s approach to enabling SMEs who contribute almost half of Africa’s GDP, yet face a multi-billion-dollar financing gap in the cash economy.



“We believe in the entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses that embrace opportunities, provide livelihoods, and support communities across Africa. That’s why we are using our technology, expertise, and partnerships to empower every business everywhere to grow digitally, and succeed in a more connected and inclusive world,” he states.



Mastercard’s operations in South Africa, which has an estimated 2.6 &nbsp;million micro, small and medium enterprises, has grown significantly. “If you look at the numbers from 2021 up until the end of 2023, the card acceptance rate has grown significantly. That is testament to the innovation and deployment of technology that enables the types of transactions that satisfy consumers but also serve merchants.”



Mastercard’s efforts, however, go beyond payment solutions. The global technology leader is committed to helping SMEs get paid, get capital and get digital – safely and securely – wherever they are. Through collaboration with local governments, fintech companies, and startups, Mastercard is scaling solutions that impact the region’s financial ecosystem. “We are building a community of stakeholders who can act together, make a difference, and drive sustainable, lasting impact,” Swanepoel states.



Mastercard’s vision for Africa also involves enhancing digital infrastructure to support the continent’s growing need for seamless digital transactions. With innovations like tokenization, the company enables consumers to make payments using any device, thus supporting the growing new generation of digitally native consumers. “The proliferation of mobile phones across the continent and the expansion of infrastructure with low-cost point-of-sale devices enable us to provide value and support economies on their digitization journey,” he says.



Cross border remittances are another critical area where Mastercard is making strides. By opening up intra-Africa corridors, Mastercard allows people to send money quickly and efficiently across borders. “For example, if you are a Zimbabwean living in South Africa, you can easily send money back home to your family, who can collect the funds within 30 minutes,” Swanepoel explains.



Mastercard’s commitment to Africa is not just about technology—it’s about empowering communities and creating opportunities for future generations. “Mastercard is in Africa for Africa. By fostering innovation, partnerships, and digital transformation, we aim to drive sustainable, inclusive growth across the continent,” Swanepoel states.

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Connecting Africa: How Mastercard is transforming the continent’s digital economy

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ed-McLaughlin-2-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-498839" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ed-McLaughlin-2-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ed-McLaughlin-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ed-McLaughlin-2-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ed-McLaughlin-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ed-McLaughlin-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ed-McLaughlin-2-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ed McLaughlin, President and Chief Technology Officer at Mastercard</figcaption></figure>



Ed McLaughlin, President and Chief Technology Officer at Mastercard, shares insights on the company’s commitment to leveraging technology to foster financial inclusion, enhance cybersecurity, and secure transactions across Africa.



With the rapid transformation of the digital landscape, Mastercard is adapting and innovating to meet the changing needs of consumers. McLaughlin emphasizes that the company’s primary focus is on connecting people in new and meaningful ways.



“We are in a time of tremendous change, particularly in technology. But what’s most important is how we can bring that change to market and to our consumers,” McLaughlin notes. Mastercard is driving this change through contextual commerce, blending the physical and digital worlds to create new capabilities and opportunities for financial inclusion.



One of the key elements in the payments industry is trust, particularly in regions with evolving financial landscapes like Africa. McLaughlin discusses the importance of cybersecurity in building and maintaining this trust. “Trust is essential for doing business, especially in changing markets within the electronic realm. Mastercard has invested over US$7 billion in the last five years to build security systems that ensure reliability for end consumers,” he explains. This investment has led to significant advancements in endpoint defense, encryption, and AI-driven fraud prevention, stopping over $20 billion in fraud last year alone.



McLaughlin highlights that consumers using Mastercard have zero liability for fraud, reinforcing the company’s commitment to secure and trustworthy transactions. This foundation of trust enables Mastercard to introduce innovative technologies that enhance user experiences and expand financial inclusion.



Africa is at the forefront of some of the most exciting technological advancements, and Mastercard is actively implementing these innovations to benefit the continent. McLaughlin expresses his enthusiasm for the region’s mobile money offerings and the potential of AI to deliver personalized experiences while protecting against fraud. “Some of the most exciting technologies we’ve seen are in Africa because a lot of that development is happening here first,” he says. Mastercard’s initiatives in Southern Africa aim to increase the reliability and speed of financial processes, leveraging powerful AI techniques to unlock new opportunities.



McLaughlin underscores the importance of building a secure digital ecosystem that supports financial inclusion, emphasizing that as more people and businesses are integrated into the digital economy, it is crucial to protect them. “We can’t put vulnerable populations at risk – it is important not to put the full burden of security on their shoulders,” he states. Ensuring that the most vulnerable are shielded from the consequences of weak security and fraud prevention tools is essential to maintaining trust and advancing financial inclusion efforts.



Mastercard’s focus is on building a digital economy that is secure, inclusive, and innovative. It is what guides the company’s mission to integrate 1 billion people – and 50 million micro and small businesses – into the digital economy by 2025. “We’re building a community of stakeholders who can act together, make a difference, and drive sustainable, lasting impact,” McLaughlin states.



Mastercard’s collaborative approach is evident in partnerships like with MTN, which connects local entrepreneurs with data analytics and payments tools, and drives financial and digital literacy across Africa. Additionally, Mastercard’s recent infrastructure investments in South Africa aim to modernize the payments industry and enable local processing, further supporting the region’s digital transformation.



As the fintech landscape in Africa continues to evolve, Mastercard remains committed to co-creating solutions that integrate seamlessly into digital ecosystems. The company’s Start Path program supports fintech startups like Nigerian company Duplo, which simplifies business-to-business payments. By leveraging AI, machine learning, and biometrics, Mastercard ensures that commerce thrives and trust is built within the digital economy.



This year, Mastercard marks 50 years of operations in Africa. Through these five decades, the company has connected millions of people and businesses to the digital economy, and introduced numerous solutions to help drive commerce and secure transactions.



As Mastercard celebrates its milestones in Africa and looks toward the future, the company is more committed than ever to its mission of creating a more inclusive digital economy that benefits all Africans. “I believe that Africa will continue to grow and prosper, with a much-expanded, more inclusive digital economy that will have risen to meet its potential. Now is the time to drive digital infrastructure and enable the enablers that can scale financial access and foster economic growth,” McLaughlin concludes.

Ed McLaughlin 2

Mastercard’s vision for Africa: Connecting communities through innovation and trust

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What a privilege to have been part of the 2024 WomenLift Health Global Conference! It was an honor to have over 1,000 delegates from more than 40 countries. I <a>can’t</a> capture all my observations and learnings in a short article, but here are some highlights:



First, what delighted me. The warmth and the joy of human connection in our global health community. Seeing women and men allies bond across disciplines, sectors, backgrounds, and lived experiences. Dancing in a room full of women and men allies after three days of listening, learning, and sharing.&nbsp;



Second, what made me reflect. These are my top takeaways from three days of plenaries, sessions, and workshops.



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Unpack the jargon. We think <a>we’re</a> saying one thing, but the recipients of our words might either tune us out or hear an entirely different thing. What do words like “empowerment,” “<a href="https://www.vox.com/the-highlight/2019/5/20/18542843/intersectionality-conservatism-law-race-gender-discrimination">intersectionality</a>,” and “<a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/dtac/disaster-planners/diversity-equity-inclusion/key-dei-terms">Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion</a>” really mean? How much gets lost in translation when working across disciplines, languages, and cultures? Do we care more about impressing our readers or about getting <a href="https://apolitical.co/solution-articles/en/for-clear-communication-cut-the-jargon">the heart of our message across</a>?</li>
</ol>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Build bridges. How do we balance <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lansea/article/PIIS2772-3682(23)00099-9/fulltext">local and global</a> initiatives? We need leaders and organizations with a global focus to understand and respect the power and expertise of those who get the local or regional context. <a>Perhaps we</a> also need to find new ways for leaders around the globe to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12bSY66PZuU">work together</a> and share learnings. <a>Perhaps this</a> needs to happen in a context where no one is trying to “save” anyone. <a>Maybe we</a> would all benefit from creating systems for equitable collaboration and partnership. Does the flow of ideas always have to be subject to the flow of money? Is it naïve to imagine otherwise?</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Culture is the key. Policy change is important, and we should invest in it. But unless we change the culture of organizations and society at large, we will not see paradigm shifts. So, how do we do this? Culture is built by people. It starts with buy-in at the top, but for it to be ingrained into the DNA of an organization, it must pervade through every level. To me, the critical question is: how do we <a href="https://www.womenlifthealth.org/article/role-of-leadership-in-achieving-gender-equality-and-health-for-all/">invest</a> in our people? How do we ensure that people—at every level—are consistently informing, sustaining, and leading the evolution of our culture, no matter who is at the top?</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>We need to talk about caregiving. Caregiving is unofficially built into many women’s lives. An example is the idea of the “<a href="https://youtu.be/pDVW7EAlUEo?si=tM0shX5FdkVm2yc1">sandwich generation</a>”: many working adults end up being caregivers of both their children and their parents. They are not only working parents, but also working children. I found myself in this very place in 2019, with a 2-year-old child and a father dying of cancer. I was wracked with the guilt that I was not doing enough for either of them, despite working in the most enabling environment possible and having the strongest ally one could have in a life partner. What is it like for those who have no institutional or familial support?</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Everyone needs emotional intelligence training. Emotional intelligence is much more than a skill or tool—it is fundamental to being a good human and a good leader. Fortunately, it can be learned, and <a>it’s</a> never too late. The alumna- and partner-led emotional intelligence workshop at the conference was incredibly well attended. Panelists in other sessions also expressed how important it is for men to cultivate emotional intelligence, so that they can not only become better allies to women but also do the same for each other.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Reframe the ideal professional and ideal mother.</li>
</ul>



What is an “ideal professional”? Is she someone who works on nights and weekends, answers every email within 24 hours, and responds to all messages within an hour?



What is an “ideal mother”? Is she someone who stays at home, cooks every meal, attends all school events, and drives her kid to as many extracurricular activities as possible?



Women are expected to be ideal professionals while taking care of their children and elderly parents.&nbsp;Women are expected to be ideal mothers and caretakers while working a full- or part-time job.&nbsp;



Oy, I am exhausted from just writing this!



How can anyone live up to these unattainable standards? What role can institutional leaders play in reframing these expectations and role modeling new behaviors?&nbsp;We need cultural paradigm shifts, and the solutions must come from both men and women, at work and at home. How can <a href="https://speakingofmedicine.plos.org/2022/04/28/walking-the-path-to-gender-equality-together/">male allies</a> amplify their efforts in their homes? How can mothers reframe expectations of themselves and shed the layers of guilt heaped on their existing burdens and responsibilities?



Third, what motivates me to push even harder. These are the things that keep the fire in my belly burning:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>The growing anti-rights movement around the globe is scary. LGBTQIA+ rights <a>seemed to be</a> advancing around the world—including in <a href="https://time.com/5388231/india-decriminalizes-homosexuality-section-377/">India</a> and parts of <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Asia-Insight/LGBT-rights-in-Asia-Small-steps-forward-and-big-steps-back">Southeast Asia</a>. We welcomed our first African American president in the U.S. We were starting to see more women as heads of state around the world, albeit at a frustratingly slow pace (<a href="https://www.holoniq.com/notes/the-2024-global-state-of-womens-leadership">4 in 1995 to 17 in 2024</a>). But now, <a>we’re</a> seeing even this marginal progress being eroded by actions like the <a href="https://www.womenlifthealth.org/article/overturning-roe-vs-wade-will-reverberate-globally/">reversal of Roe v Wade in the United States</a>, a global pushback against equity and inclusion, and a rise in <a href="https://www.hrw.org/sitesearch?search=xenophobia">xenophobia</a>. How can we find common ground? Whatever the strategy, we must fight to protect fundamental human dignity, safety, and rights, especially for marginalized groups. We must do this collectively, systematically, and on a grand scale. The time is NOW.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The climate crisis is <a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/global-risks-report-2024/digest/">already happening.</a> <a>In</a> this month alone there are <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c72plp66g5no">devastating floods in Kenya</a>, and in <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/heat-wave-asia-2024-deaths-india-severe-weather-climate-change/">Asia</a> and <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/maps-extreme-summer-heat-us-forecast/">the U.S</a> <a>we’re</a> bracing for record heat waves. Where is our sense of urgency? Where are women leaders in this fight? At WomenLift Health, we are keen to invest in the leadership skills of women who work at the intersection of health, climate, and gender. Institutions have been investing billions of dollars in technological solutions and products for a long time. They have achieved a lot of success, but <a>we’re</a> still way behind global health targets. Why? How do we ensure that the monumental resources being spent on lifesaving technologies get through layers of bureaucracy to that precious last mile? How do we ensure that the diverse leaders who understand these complex contexts are included at decision-making tables? How do we ensure that when uncertainty and fear inevitably arise, we have leaders who can handle volatility and lead with <a href="https://www.cfr.org/article/womens-power-index">agility and resilience</a>?</li>
</ul>



Last, what excites me about the future. The collective power of WomenLift Health community and the desire to pay it forward.The ideas that germinate after these conferences and the belief that when we put our heads, hearts, and hands together, there is no ceiling too high, no barrier too daunting. There are big challenges, and together, we will <a>overcome</a>!&nbsp;



Connect with <a href="https://www.womenlifthealth.org/profile/shereen-bhan/">Shereen</a> on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shereenbhan/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/shereenbhan/</a>

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The Power of Human Connection

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In construction since the latter part of 2018, OR Tambo International Airport SEZ Precinct 1 officially opened all its doors during the month of March 2024.



The milestone, which marked the end of OR Tambo Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Precinct 1’s development, was celebrated at an event attended by key government leaders, investors, tenants and stakeholder partners. This commemoration followed similar occasions held in April 2019, when the second largest food factory of its kind became operational and again in February 2023, when a building that houses a Belgian investor was unveiled in the presence of key dignitaries, including King Philippe of Belgium.&nbsp;



In addition to the building openings marked on other occasions, two other buildings have been operational at the Zone since 2020; these include a precious metals refinery as well as an administrative building where national regulatory agencies are located.&nbsp; These agencies, namely the South African Diamonds and Precious Metals Regulator (SADPMR) and the State Diamond Trader (SDT) are mandated with providing regulatory guidance and oversight of the minerals industry in South Africa as well as promoting equitable access to and beneficiation of the country’s diamond resources, respectively. Their presence at the Zone contributes to efficient operations by the manufacturers, who must, on a regular basis, engage with the agencies on issues of licensing, raw material access and exporting.&nbsp;



To herald the end of Precinct 1’s development, the six remaining buildings were completed, bringing to a successful realization, the objective set by the Gauteng Provincial Government to establish a globally competitive mineral beneficiation cluster – next to Africa’s largest airport.



This vision, which gives impetus to South Africa’s mineral beneficiation strategy, was conceptualized in support of the objective to contribute to the country’s re-industrialization, by facilitating enhanced value addition of minerals mined in South Africa, some of which continue to be exported in their raw form, resulting in the export of jobs to countries that add value.&nbsp;



To counter this and in recognition of South Africa’s mineral endowments, the development of a globally-competitive mineral beneficiation industrial park supported by a sector nuanced manufacturing eco-system and comprised of different role players within proximity to each other (thereby enhancing operational efficiencies), was birthed. &nbsp;



In acknowledgement of the competitive location of the OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) SEZ – next to sub-Saharan Africa’s largest airport, manufacturing activities at the first phase of the SEZ also include fresh food production. This is because the food system has the ability to employ a large number of people, supporting the country’s objective to create much needed job opportunities.&nbsp;



It is no mistake therefore, that the anchor on the northern side of ORTIA Precinct 1 is a premium fresh food producer with the capacity to package more than 1,400 food products.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="720" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GIDZ1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-495986" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GIDZ1.jpg 1080w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GIDZ1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GIDZ1-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GIDZ1-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GIDZ1-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpacking-ortia-precinct-1-fresh-food-jewelry-and-diamond-manufacturing">Unpacking ORTIA Precinct 1: Fresh food, jewelry and diamond manufacturing</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-globally-competitive-food-processing-operations">Globally competitive food processing operations</h3>



ORTIA Precinct 1 comprises of 63,000 square meters of developed space.&nbsp; This includes a 22,735 square meter food-processing facility that became operational in 2019.



Described as the largest and most diverse ultra-fresh food facility of its kind in the southern hemisphere, In2food Bonaero, as it is known, accommodates food preparation, storage, office areas as well as a canteen, showers and a medical clinic.



The Bonaero industrial operations boast an impressive refrigeration and PV system that reduces demand on the grid.&nbsp; In addition, all water sources are monitored through a comprehensive building management system.&nbsp; Because of all this, In2food Bonaero is one of the few industrial facilities in South Africa that has achieved 4-star green accreditation and net-zero carbon level 1 certification, setting the benchmark for other industrial developments.&nbsp;



Since its opening, this facility has created over 2,500 operational jobs and has also supported and promoted emerging farmers that provide input to the facility for value addition.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-globally-dynamic-mineral-beneficiation-cluster">Globally dynamic mineral beneficiation cluster</h3>



The remaining part of the precinct is where the Jewellery and Diamond Manufacturing Cluster is located.&nbsp;



Comprised of over 40,000 square meters of developed space, the JMP, as it is known, is home to 19 different companies that share similar characteristics and operating requirements. These include a precious metal refinery, diamond cutting and polishing companies, jewelry manufacturers, diamond-trading entities, a skills hub as well as regulatory agencies that support the industry. In addition, sector-specific service providers that support in high level security requirements inclusive of the movement of goods, also form part of the development.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhanced-connection-and-collaboration-in-mineral-beneficiation">Enhanced connection and collaboration in mineral beneficiation</h3>



The location of like-minded businesses at the precinct is an intentional move by the OR Tambo SEZ aimed at ensuring that the mineral beneficiation cluster functions competitively and efficiently. &nbsp;This is because, worldwide, the cluster approach to economic development has been shown to not just foster industrial development, but also promote connection and collaboration, leading to increased creativity and productivity.&nbsp;



It is anticipated that through this approach, minerals mined and beneficiated in South Africa for global consumption will increase.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-next-frontier-nbsp-ortia-precinct-2-and-the-springs-precinct">The next frontier:&nbsp; ORTIA Precinct 2 and the Springs Precinct</h3>



With the completion of ORTIA Precinct 1, focus of the SEZ’s development is on ORTIA Precinct 2, a 29ha land parcel projected to have 265,000 square meters of developable space and the Springs Precinct, a 13ha land parcel projected to have 45,000 square meters of developable space.



In lieu of their individual competitive locations, each precinct is positioned to promote the production and export of products best suited to their locations.&nbsp; In respect of ORTIA Precinct 2, which is located a stone’s throw away from ORTIA Precinct 1 and OR Tambo International Air Cargo, these are mineral-beneficiated products, pharmaceutical and health products, electronics and other just-in-time products, such as fresh food.&nbsp;&nbsp;



In respect of the Springs Precinct, there are fuel cells, electrolysers, capital as well as mining equipment. This is because the Springs Precinct is competitively located near a platinum refinery, making it ideal for the production of platinum-related products.



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-available-opportunities">Available opportunities</h3>



The OR Tambo SEZ is open to interest from companies manufacturing for export in the sectors identified at ORTIA Precinct 2 or the Springs Precinct.



Construction on the precincts (both are greenfield investments) is anticipated to commence in the latter part of 2024.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.ortambosez.co.za">www.ortambosez.co.za</a>

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Southern Africa’s Jewelry Manufacturing Precinct Fully Open For Business

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Unleashing Business Potential with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

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SingularityU South Africa Summit to take place in collaboration with Old Mutual on 21 &amp; 22 October 2024



Johannesburg, 22 May 2024: True to its promise to bring business leaders the latest innovations and bleeding edge breakthroughs in exponential technologies, Singularity South Africa has announced the plans for the upcoming Summit, that will return in physical format this year, in collaboration with Old Mutual. With over 1 500 delegates expected, the popular summit will take place on Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 October 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.



Continuing its strategic focus to future proof Africa and leverage the latest innovations to solve the global challenges, the first ten international and local speakers have been announced.



World-renowned cybersecurity expert, Jaya Baloo will return to the stage to share insights on guarding the digital frontier. The genius behind Stable Diffusion, Emad Mostaque, Founder of Stability AI, will address the future of decentralized and democratized AI. The food scientist, Arturo Elizondo who has made it his life&#8217;s mission to improve the global nutrition system, will tackle the future of protein in a plant-based ecosystem. Cathy Hackl, founder of Spatial Dynamics (USA) will deliver a keynote on immersion in the spatial web.



Tech venture capital (VC) investor, Karine Arama will ignite conversations around the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and Blockchain and the future of the VC investing landscape. Carlo van de Weijer, a smart mobility and AI visionary from Eindhoven University of Technology, will steer the narrative around the future of mobility while sharing the latest global innovations in mobility solutions.



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With AI currently super charging every aspect of business and society, the summit will see the world’s thought leaders on this topic congregate to equip delegates with the foresights needed to harness this phenomenon. AI Ethics Sociologist Alix Rubsaam will address AI and ethics, exploring the societal impacts of bridging the human and digital realms. Adam Pantanowitz (PhD) will speak on the current shifts that are leading to the convergence between humans and machines.



Professor of Machine Learning and Robotics Benjamin Rosman will dive into the algorithms that are reshaping how machines learn and interact. Data wizard, Mark Nasila (PhD) who harnesses analytics to enhance banking security and customer insights, will address the African Artificial (AI) renaissance.&nbsp;



Now entering its sixth year, and known for exceeding expectations at every event, the 2024 iteration of the Singularity Summit will feature a broad array of topics that also include energy, ESG (environmental, social, and governance), food, leadership, medicine, robotics, technology, the future of work, virtual reality, and water. More speakers will be announced leading up to the event.



In another first for South Africa, the Singularity South Africa Summit will be the first local event to feature a dedicated world-class metaverse track. People from all over the world will be able to access the summit’s main stage and plenary sessions in an immersive, 3D format, via the Africarare metaverse. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="461" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mark-Nasila-2023-820x461.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-495389" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mark-Nasila-2023-820x461.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mark-Nasila-2023-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mark-Nasila-2023-160x90.jpg 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mark-Nasila-2023-768x432.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mark-Nasila-2023.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



“As Old Mutual advances its digital transformation and prepares for the launch of a digital bank, the upcoming two-day SingularityU summit, featuring top experts in AI, technology, science, and futurism, offers a chance to glean invaluable insights from those shaping the future of tech and society,” shared Celiwe Ross, Director: Group Strategy, Sustainability, People and Public Affairs at Old Mutual.



“In a world where technology is rapidly reshaping the horizons of our possibilities, this year’s SingularityU South Africa Summit is a beacon for innovation. Collaborating with Old Mutual enables us to enhance our platform, where global leaders in technology will illuminate the path towards a sustainable and prosperous future. Our commitment is stronger than ever to empower visionaries and leaders with the insights needed to harness exponential technologies for the greater good of Africa and the world.” said Mic Mann, co-CEO of SingularityU South Africa.



“We remain steadfast in our commitment to help empower Africa&#8217;s business leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to shape an abundant future and know that the insights that will be shared from the stage will play a meaningful role in bringing this vision to reality. We are pleased to be collaborating with Old Mutual on this mission and know that their business dexterity will add tremendous value to this years’ experience,” added Shayne Mann, co-CEO of SingularityU South Africa.



The plans regarding ancillary events, networking opportunities, and the final programme for the SingularityU South Africa Summit will be announced in the coming months. To join the SingularityU community of changemakers, or to learn more, visit <a href="https://singularityusouthafrica.org/">https://singularityusouthafricasummit.org/</a>.



Ticket prices: R 14&nbsp;500 per person, book before midnight on 15 July and save 22%. (Next tier applies thereafter) All prices include VAT.

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Plans announced for Singularity Summit 2024

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/African-Bank-Day-4-Edna3523-2-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-493616" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/African-Bank-Day-4-Edna3523-2-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/African-Bank-Day-4-Edna3523-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/African-Bank-Day-4-Edna3523-2-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/African-Bank-Day-4-Edna3523-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/African-Bank-Day-4-Edna3523-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/African-Bank-Day-4-Edna3523-2-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Edna Montse, Group Chief Transformation and Sustainability Officer at African Bank.</figcaption></figure>



The African Union’s Agenda 2063, titled The Africa We Want, speaks to inclusive and sustainable development in the drive for collective prosperity. Sadly, 24 years into our new millennium, the clarion call of women’s empowerment, diversity and inclusion, and transformation, still appears to have a novel ring to it.



How can this be on a continent where over 50% of the population is female? Over 40% of households in South Africa are female-led, yet women, and black women in particular, are unemployed at rates exceeding an already alarming national average. &nbsp;



“It is evident that lasting tangible change requires a commitment to transformation that transcends tick-box publicity stunts,” says Edna Montse, Group Chief Transformation and Sustainability Officer at African Bank.



“The empowerment of women not only contributes to a more just society, but creates opportunities for growth that everyone will benefit from.”



For African Bank, the concept of empowerment is anchored in ubuntu, the belief that our identity, humanity, and ambitions are interconnected.



“Ubuntu is a golden thread woven throughout the rich tapestry of the African Bank story,” says Montse.



“Our bank was established to give all South Africans access to financial services at a time when this right was reserved for a select few. Our founders fervently believed that a level economic playing field would open the door to prosperity. It is an ethos that illuminates the road ahead on our strategic journey. We are determined to play a positive role in the future of our society, and advancing the cause of women is central to that.”



An important facet of that cause is empowering women with the confidence and skills to become successful entrepreneurs. As part of their strategic drive to build a bank for the people, by the people, serving the people, African Bank has created a number of initiatives in which female business owners can tap into networks of experience, contacts, and support.



These include an Enterprise and Supplier Development Capacity Building program, which is a 12-month course in the finer aspects of business growth, their annual Enterprise and Supplier Development Summit, a Women Enterprise Development Programme, and the African Bank Women in Conversation programs held at various locations across the country.



It is a cause that is dear to Montse’s heart. Born into a family of women entrepreneurs, she witnessed firsthand the delicate balancing act these women had to perform to maintain their businesses and their households.



They faced significant challenges in growing their business, hamstrung by a lack of financial education and the fear that one false move could result in poverty.



Through their entrepreneurship and empowerment initiatives, African Bank hopes to instill in female entrepreneurs the audacity to believe that their business dreams are possible.



&nbsp;“We believe that our diversity is our strength and inclusivity remains paramount to creating positive social change,” says Montse.



“Our initiatives have allowed us to engage with women from all walks of life on issues that are close to their hearts, including financial wellness. The large turnouts we have witnessed at these initiatives prove that the entrepreneurial spirt that moved our founders to create African Bank is still very much alive and well in townships and disadvantaged communities across South Africa.” Monste adds, “We see ourselves as steward leaders of a vision so much greater than ourselves. We therefore must play an active role in giving agency to those relegated to the sidelines of the economic playing field, and hope to those with the audacity to believe in their dreams.”

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Ubuntu And The Audacity To Believe In Business Dreams

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EDTECH-2023-DAY-1-508-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-491559" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EDTECH-2023-DAY-1-508-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EDTECH-2023-DAY-1-508-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EDTECH-2023-DAY-1-508-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EDTECH-2023-DAY-1-508-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EDTECH-2023-DAY-1-508-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EDTECH-2023-DAY-1-508-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Many of the major problems facing educators today, in Africa and around the world, revolve around student motivation and engagement. In several African countries, this is reflected in a need to go beyond the “chalk-and-talk” style that has been in use for decades to achieve robust engagement in young minds.&nbsp;



One of the techniques identified is gamification, or the process of integrating gaming elements in non-game contexts to create immersive and interactive experiences. According to <a href="https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-gamification-in-education-definition-research-strategies.html#:~:text=Gamification%20in%20education%20is%20the,one%20big%20first%2Dperson%20game.">Study.com</a>, “gamification endeavours to literally create a game out of learning by theming all components of your classroom in a game metaphor, making your class like one big first-person game,” usually through the use of individual or class-wide competitions that put students at the centre of the learning process.&nbsp;



Globally, software developers work to deliver gamification content to learners and create mechanisms that help in assessing their competency. Reflecting on its significant presence in the tech sector, the May 2024 edition of EdTech Mondays sought to explore the benefits and challenges of gamification within the specific context of the African education landscape.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Kagisho Masae, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Matric Live in South Africa, says it’s possible to leverage the time learners spend on their gadgets after school in a way that brings not just fun but deeper comprehension of subjects they may have struggled with in class during the day.&nbsp;Masae’s organization runs a multifunctional education app that is reinventing the way pupils learn by making learning contextual, visual, and based in real life.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“In South Africa, learners spend a lot of time on their phones after school. We want to make ourselves part of that attention by prioritizing our interface with nice pop-ups. In case a learner did not comprehend much in class, then instead of spending time on social media, that time can be used to challenge each other out of the classroom,” says Masae. “As mobile technology penetration in Africa increases, the younger generation is getting immersed in its use without the same inhibitions that held back the previous generation that mostly relied on the teacher as the only source of knowledge.”&nbsp;



According to Rosemary Onyancha, a science teacher at Moi Forces Academy in Kenya and the African Union Teacher of the Year 2023/2024, the current crop of learners is bold enough to experiment with gamification.&nbsp;



“We are dealing with 21st-century children who are critical thinkers, in contrast to the previous generation that feared to interact with learning materials. The current learners want to see the outcomes of their learning. Gamification helps them to create collaboration which is needed in the current job market,” says Onyancha.&nbsp;



Teachers especially need to determine the appropriate level of gamification for learners’ physical and mental capabilities while accounting for the lessons learners need. Since gamification is about teaching deeper concepts in an easy-to-understand manner, a teacher will need to develop concepts that capture everyday principles.&nbsp;



“A child can learn a lot just by playing a game. In addition to maths, English and science, they can learn an array of other skills such as financial literacy, digital literacy and even about becoming an entrepreneur – it is all about fun learning,”&nbsp;says Titilope Adewusi, Co-Founder and Chief Executive of 9ija Kids in Nigeria.



In some African countries where technology penetration is a challenge, teachers have employed such gamification concepts to teach complex subjects with ease. During the May 2024 edition of EdTech Mondays, two children below the age of 10 used the widely publicized balloon-skewer test to show how air molecules in a balloon hold up even when the balloon is poked from top to bottom where the polymers are least stretched.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The balloon-skewer principle teaches both teachers and learners that gamification can be found in everyday situations and play items and that science is not learnt through fluke but in provable experiments.&nbsp;



“Gamification concepts help to demystify science and can be done in any school regardless of the economic level,” says Tracey Shiundu, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at FunKE Science in Kenya.



“They help to break the notion that science is magic. In the balloon experiment, we just complemented what happens in science lessons. We need to show schools that they must not have potassium permanganate for experiments but can substitute it with baking powder and achieve similar results in class. Simplifying gamification means the learner does not feel intimidated,” adds Shiundu.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Still, both teachers and educational content creators have a role to ensure that any forms of gamification do not distract the very young, who can be easily carried away by the “fun” part of this learning technique.&nbsp;



At 9ija Kids, Adewusi says this works by highlighting the positive aspects of using the internet for gamification purposes “since we all delve into things that we enjoy.”&nbsp;



In South Africa, Masae says highlighting the practical aspects of the internet-based gamification concepts through case studies helps young people focus on learning aspects while online.&nbsp;



“I have a friend who got a laptop at 17 years old and soon learned how to code on YouTube and began to create games. Those in his age group came to see that using the internet for learning has positive outcomes. Teachers can also learn from this and look at technology, not as an alternative but an integral part of teaching and that they too can search the web for gamification techniques,” says Masae.&nbsp;



Shiundu says that in areas underserved and underserviced by technology, schools can partner with service providers (such as internet companies) to create enabling infrastructure that makes web-based gamification possible.&nbsp;



“Most schools in Africa are not equal in terms of class sizes and the number of teachers. We need to work with education partners, including the Mastercard Foundation, to improve learning infrastructure. Education being a social good, [we] all need to be on the same level in terms of access,” says Shiundu.&nbsp;



Yet, for gamification to be an integral part of the education system, it requires systems change and alignment with governmental guidelines for use in schools. This, according to the panellists, requires collaborative measures with governments that are responsible for updating study guidelines.&nbsp;



Once that is in place, educational content creators can develop content that aligns with such guidelines.



“We have an example where we integrated gaming in financial literacy, and it was approved by the National Department of Basic Education in South Africa. Still, this requires humility on both content creators and education officials who must get over their egos, since it is all about the learner. Again, for this collaboration to happen you need to leverage on big partnerships around you,” Masae says. 



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-watch-may-s-edtech-mondays-episode-on-gamification-in-education">Watch May&#8217;s Edtech Mondays episode on Gamification in Education</h3>



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EXPLORING THE ROLE OF GAMIFICATION IN AFRICA’S EDUCATION SYSTEMS

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At this year’s Mobile World Congress held from February 26-29 in Barcelona, Spain, 41 sessions focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) were held. With over 90,000 attendees, this was one of the global events where a deep dive into this subject was conducted as more became interested in its growth, impact, and potential to change human lives.



Globally, AI is being touted as the game-changer in how commercial firms conduct their business operations with its limitless potential applications coming into play. According to leading professional services firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), “AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy in 2030, more than the current output of China and India combined” That is a 14 percent increase in global GDP generated through AI.



“As humans and machines collaborate more closely, and AI innovations come out of the research lab and into the mainstream, the transformational possibilities are staggering,” states PwC in their report, <a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/issues/data-and-analytics/publications/artificial-intelligence-study.html">Sizing the Prize</a>.



Among the sectors that will derive such “transformational possibilities” from this growing form of technology is education, where it can help educators analyse data quickly and efficiently thus leapfrogging learners and teachers from manual processes to machines. 



According to the 2023 <a href="https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/artificial-intelligence-ai-in-education-market">Global Markets Insights report</a>, AI in the education market reached $4 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow by more than 10 percent from 2023 to 2032, “owing to the growing inclination towards personalized learning”.  According to the report, adoption of AI in the education market is growing through “comprehensive data collection and analysis for offering valuable insights to educators, administrators and policymakers”.



With such growing attention toward AI, the April 2024 edition of the Mastercard Foundation’s EdTech Mondays delved deeper into the role of this technology in education within the African framework.



“AI is transforming the global economy and will have a major impact in education. For example, we can teach machines how to mark exams while teachers take on higher roles,” says Mutembei Kariuki, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Fastagger. “We are teaching machines to think and do things that humans do. Leaving AI to handle routine matters will then elevate teachers to where they are supposed to be, as mentors to the learners.”



Kariuki’s views are in line with the role played by AI, a phrase that has technology geeks’ antennas up in the air but whose full impact is yet to be felt especially in developing countries. In education, AI presents opportunities and challenges—opportunities in that it can teach students new things with individualized perspectives. On the other hand, the key challenge for educators and policymakers is the need to change their mindsets to incorporate the new reality.



“AI is coming and is very disruptive as people grapple with what it can do,” says Matthew Grollnek, Future of Work Lead at the Mastercard Foundation. “People are grappling with what it can do, while few know the answers. Some people think it is scary and that we will not be able to contain it. It will present a big shift as education moves to a new system replacing one that has been there for over 100 years. The question is how to maximize the benefits and address the risks.”



However, lack of clear policy framework is a key impediment to the full realization of AI benefits in many African countries. As is the case in many areas of development, technological practices have been moving ahead of policy and forcing governments to play catch up. That though, is set to change as the African Union moves to assert its influence on AI deployment through the <a href="https://au.int/en/5thstccict">Continental Strategy on AI</a> that has prioritized education and preservation of African languages as key sectors to benefit from this technology.



The AU strategy will address one key concern relating to the limited use of Africa datasets with the continent relying on processes developed from outside Africa. The&nbsp;African Union Digital Education Strategy and Implementation Plan, covering the 2023-2028 timeframe, has established a framework for engagement and acceleration of digital technologies to align with Africa’s digital education.



The areas where technology, including AI, will be deployed include teaching, learning, research, assessment, and administration; strengthening digital literacy and skills for all, especially for teachers and students; and building the capacity of AU member states in requisite infrastructure for digital education.



Already some African countries are leapfrogging the process. &nbsp;Rwanda, as an example, is the first African country to have an <a href="https://www.minict.gov.rw/index.php?eID=dumpFile&amp;t=f&amp;f=67550&amp;token=6195a53203e197efa47592f40ff4aaf24579640e">AI policy</a> that acts as a roadmap to harness the benefits and mitigate associated risks, especially those associated with sharing children’s data with those who should not have access to such information.



“AI is ready for some subjects including coding and some mathematical equations. This will reduce the workload for teachers, especially those trained on how to use it responsibly. It will also bring inclusion and equity to learners with various impairments since Africa lacks enough schools for children with special needs,” says Christine Niyizamwiyitira, Scholar in Residence at Carnegie Mellon University.



According to the <a href="https://mastercardfdn.org/our-strategy/young-africa-works/">Mastercard Foundation&#8217;s Young Africa Works strategy</a>, by 2030, Africa&#8217;s workforce will reach a billion people, with 375 million young people entering the job market. These will require a shift in education strategies, and AI programs could equip them with new skill sets needed in the job market.



As the panelists stated, AI will not replace teachers but enhance their role to include the ability to curate learning experiences while holistically supporting a learner’s growth and emotional well-being in the classroom. The future of AI in education is indeed now.



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-watch-april-s-edtech-mondays-episode-on-artificial-intelligence-in-education">Watch April&#8217;s Edtech Mondays episode on Artificial Intelligence in Education</h3>



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THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN EDUCATION

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On Monday, May 20, the National Basketball Association (NBA) revealed its new NBA Finals campaign, “The Toast”, which is now streaming across all NBA social platforms and the NBA App.&nbsp; NBA Legend and three-time NBA Champion Dwyane Wade gathers a cast of former champions and famous NBA fans – Ray Allen, Mike Breen, Ken Jeong, Magic Johnson, Jimmy Kimmel, Isiah Thomas, Queen Latifah and the newest members of the Chicago Sky Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese – to celebrate the pinnacle of the NBA season with a toast “to the Finals.”&nbsp;



The road to the NBA Finals continues this week, with Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and the 17-time NBA champion Boston Celtics taking on Pascal Siakam (Cameroon), Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers, and Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving and the 2011 NBA champion Dallas Mavericks facing Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns and the Minnesota Timberwolves in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference and Western Conference Finals series, respectively.&nbsp; It marks the fifth consecutive season without a defending champion in the Conference Finals, with the last four teams standing battling it out for a ticket to the Finals and a chance to compete for the Larry O’Brien Trophy next month. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



&#8220;As the Playoffs near a close, we are arriving at the pinnacle of the NBA season: the NBA Finals,&#8221; said NBA Chief Marketing Officer Tammy Henault. &#8220;We wanted to ensure our creative captured the gravity of that, so the idea of bringing together the NBA community at a glamourous party to share in a celebration of the season behind us and in anticipation of what’s to come felt like the perfect way to tip off the Finals.”



“The Toast” opens with Wade hyping himself up as he prepares to deliver a tribute to the “the season that was and the champion to be” to an audience of former NBA champions, fans and celebrities at a glamorous affair.&nbsp; Creatively bottling the emotion that the road to the Championship evokes for all, Wade’s “Toast” honors the best of the game with references to iconic NBA moments, from Johnson’s signature no-look pass and Breen’s famous “bang!”, to Allen’s corner three and the Championship hardware itself, the Larry O’Brien Trophy.



The 2024 NBA Finals presented by YouTube tips off on the night of June 6 across Africa on ESPN, Canal+, (Pan-Africa), Afrosport (Nigeria), including select live and delayed games on Afrosport’s free-to-air affiliate channels, ZAP (Angola), SABC (South Africa) and NBA League Pass, the league’s premium subscription service.&nbsp; It will conclude the 78th NBA season, which delivered increased the league’s television viewership in Africa as well as increased engagement across the league’s localized social media accounts on the continent.&nbsp;



The more than 140 live game telecasts during the 2023-24 NBA regular season in Africa generated a 41% year-over-year increase in average viewership and nearly 6 million total watch hours.&nbsp; In addition, NBA Africa’s localized social media accounts generated nearly 90 million video views, while players born in Africa or with direct ties to the continent, Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs; France; ties to Democratic Republic of the Congo) and two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks; Greece; ties to Nigeria) were among the 10 most-viewed players globally on NBA social media this season, with 1.3 billion and 558 million views, respectively.&nbsp;

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NEW NBA FINALS CAMPAIGN CELEBRATES THE GAME

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In an era when the internet is often described as a necessity for personal and professional growth as well as a catalyst to advance commerce, healthcare, education, and economic development, only approximately 40% of people in Africa are currently connected. This figure is in stark contrast to the global average of about 70%.



For women and girls in Africa, the situation is even more lopsided and challenging: only two women are connected to the internet for every three men. There has been no improvement in the ratio of women to men utilizing the internet across the African continent over a three-year period. In Africa, this digital divide has far-reaching implications, affecting access to vital government services, educational opportunities, healthcare, public information, and entrepreneurial prospects for hundreds of millions of people. The lack of affordable access to the internet effectively blocks the gateway to a brighter future for many Africans.



At the same time, many companies throughout the world understand the commercial potential of increasing access to more users and providing affordable connectivity services to the burgeoning market in Africa. With a projected population of almost 1.7 billion people and projected spending of almost seven trillion U.S. dollars by 2030, Africa’s growth trajectory is remarkably upward-looking.



Following President Joe Biden&#8217;s promise of a new <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/12/14/fact-sheet-new-initiative-on-digital-transformation-with-africa-dta/">Digital Transformation with Africa</a> (DTA) and Vice President Kamala Harris&#8217; <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/03/29/fact-sheet-vice-president-harris-launches-global-initiatives-on-the-economic-empowerment-of-women-totaling-over-1-billion/">Call to Action</a>, a groundbreaking initiative, <a href="https://pdaa.com/">Partnership for Digital Access in Africa</a> (PDAA) was launched this week. The partnership brings together private and public sector leaders from Africa, the United States, and other parts of the world. It is driven not only by economic opportunities but also by the moral imperative to bridge Africa&#8217;s digital divide. PDAA will serve as a champion and accelerator for DTA and will support and amplify the efforts of all entities playing key roles in bringing affordable and accessible internet to Africa.



This announcement comes as President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden host President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto of Kenya for a State Visit at the White House. The visit marks the 60th anniversary of the U.S.-Kenya diplomatic relations and reinforces the strategic partnership between the two nations. It also represents the first State visit by an African leader since 2008.



“President and First Lady Ruto’s visit marks a historic moment in our shared journey towards digital accessibility and affordability. Concurrently, the launch of PDAA is not only timely but crucial, to ensure that we harness the power of digital innovation for the betterment of all Africans – especially women and girls – across the continent,” said Former Liberian President and PDAA Co-Chair Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. “In this era of rapid technological advancement, this initiative stands as a beacon of our commitment to inclusive growth for our people. Its importance to achieving our overarching goal of gender parity, including in digital access, further motivates our involvement and participation in the PDAA.&#8221;



For its part, PDAA has set forth an ambitious goal to double the number of people connected to the internet in Africa, from the current 500 million to a targeted 1 billion people by 2030.



“Only 40 percent of Africans are currently connected to the internet versus 68 percent globally,” said PDAA Interim-CEO Ibrahima Guimba-Saïdou. “With respect to women and girls, the goal is to increase connectivity from 30 percent to 80 percent. I am confident that PDAA, in collaboration with our partners, will dynamically transform Africa’s digital footprint.”



Guimba-Saïdou will lead PDAA to achieve DTA’s objectives along three core pillars:



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="1">
<li>Expand affordable internet and broadband services: To make the highest performance and lowest cost broadband available to as many Africans as possible;</li>
</ol>



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="2">
<li>Lower device cost: To improve accessibility by making such accessibility to internet-enabled devices (smartphones) and digital technology more affordable throughout Africa; and</li>
</ol>



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="3">
<li>Enhance digital skills: To assist in the upskilling of millions of Africans with the necessary capacity to more effectively and efficiently use digital technology.</li>
</ol>



The economic implications of this endeavor are significant. The results are likely to increase the potential to mobilize hundreds of billions of dollars into the annual GDPs of African nations. Along with its enormous potential, achieving this could place Africa at the forefront of global competition, commerce, and inclusive development.



PDAA has formed partnerships with public and private sector leaders, including the World Bank Group, M-KOPA, Smart Africa, African Leadership Group, Nokia, LifeHikes, and SpaceX. Each is committed to helping DTA realize its mission and objectives.



Across all of its initiatives and with all its partners, PDAA will focus on ensuring gender parity and equity in digital access and connection to the Internet. Increasing the number of women and girls connected and using the internet is crucial to providing them with opportunities for education, employment, entrepreneurship, and social and political participation, but it also can allow them to acquire new skills, address health disparities, and improve the overall quality of life – both for themselves and their families. To that end, PDAA’s collaborative efforts represent an unprecedented opportunity to work with Africa’s leaders to empower the people in Africa, reduce disparities, unlock the continent&#8217;s boundless potential, and help reach President Biden’s promise of a Digital Transformation with Africa. The rapid development of full digital capacity holds more than a promise for economic growth and job creation; its potential to improve gender equity, healthcare, increased trade among African countries and their global partners, food security, climate action, and cultural advancements is significant, both for the people in Africa and the world.



Africa&#8217;s time has come, and together, through collective action and collaboration, PDAA believes it is possible to break down barriers, bridge divides, and pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for Africa and the world.

PDAA-graphic-hero-

New Public-Private Partnership Supporting Digital Access in Africa Aims to Connect 1 Billion People in Africa to the Internet with Gender Parity

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="621" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSCF3832-820x621.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-479653" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSCF3832-820x621.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSCF3832-300x227.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSCF3832-119x90.jpg 119w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSCF3832-768x581.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSCF3832-1536x1163.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSCF3832-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hardy Pemhiwa, President and Chief Executive officer of Cassava Technologies.</figcaption></figure>



When it comes to Africa’s digital transformation, access <a>isn’t</a> <a>just about connectivity</a>; <a>it’s</a> the gateway to opportunity, says Hardy Pemhiwa, President and Group <a>CEO</a> of Cassava Technologies.



We at Cassava Technologies often talk about our vision of a digitally connected future in which no African is left behind. On a continent where more than half of the population reside-in rural areas, this doesn’t mean convincing these people to migrate to urban areas where connectivity and internet access are mostly readily available; it means taking connectivity and access to the areas that were previously excluded.



Africa&#8217;s <a href="https://au.int/en/agenda2063/overview">Agenda 2063</a> sets out a compelling 50-year vision for the continent, that of a unified, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its citizens and playing a role on the global stage. And the key to unlocking this vision lies in the digital transformation of our continent.



Digital transformation in Africa is more than just laying kilometres of fibre to connect communities. It also means providing opportunities to every African, regardless of their location, giving them the tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital age. Significant progress has already been made, with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.statista.com/forecasts/1146636/internet-users-in-africa">overall number of internet users on the continent</a>&nbsp;sitting at close to 646 million, mostly through these mobile devices. However, we must ensure that this access translates into meaningful opportunities for education, healthcare, agriculture, and economic empowerment in general.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-education-as-a-bridge-to-the-global-community">Education as a bridge to the global community</h2>



For instance, the integration of internet connectivity in education has the potential to transform learning experiences, making education more accessible and inclusive, across the continent. It brings with it the ability to access information, e-learning and online courses, supports professional development for educators, and connects African learners to the global economy. Recognising this, <a>we’ve</a> embarked on a mission to map schools across Africa, identifying their proximity to fibre broadband networks and the resources needed to connect them. And <a>we’ve</a> partnered with organisations like UNICEF, Microsoft, and Google, because this is a challenge that requires collaboration to solve. To date, of the 22,000 schools mapped, <a>we’ve</a> already connected 5,000 to high-speed internet, opening a world of educational opportunities for millions of children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-agriculture-using-technology">Transforming agriculture using technology</h2>



Another example is the transformative potential of technology in Africa’s agricultural sector, which &nbsp;<a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/03/how-africa-s-free-trade-area-will-turbocharge-the-continent-s-agriculture-industry/#:~:text=Agriculture%20makes%20up%2035%25%20of,of%20agri%2Dproduct%20every%20year.">contributes 35% to the continent’s GDP</a> and employs a sizeable portion of the population. From mobile platforms that deliver real-time information that will help farmers increase their yields and improve their livelihoods, to technology that can help address post-harvest losses by deploying sensors and IoT devices to monitor storage conditions and transport routes, the potential is astounding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bringing-e-healthcare-to-rural-communities">Bringing e-healthcare to rural communities</h2>



Given the far-flung nature of most rural communities, access to healthcare is a well-documented challenge. Internet connectivity in these areas means that people are no longer compelled to journey to urban centres to receive the medical advice they need. Again, this access should be used to create meaningful opportunities that can transform Africa’s healthcare landscape. This ranges from integrating digital tools into healthcare systems and investing in digital literacy, to providing solutions like telemedicine, digitised health records, online health resources, and mobile health applications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-empowering-rural-communities">The importance of empowering rural communities</h2>



<a>It’s</a> clear that infrastructure, education, and healthcare are the pillars upon which a prosperous Africa will be built. This leads to another <a>important point</a> – a prosperous Africa is, fundamentally, a prosperous rural Africa. Empowering rural communities with connectivity is essential for achieving a balanced and inclusive digital transformation. Bringing opportunities directly to people in these areas reduces the need for mass migration to urban centres, which in turn often leads to overcrowded cities and strained resources. Such opportunities extend from access to online education and telemedicine to participation in e-commerce and digital entrepreneurship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-partnerships-are-key-to-reducing-costs">Partnerships are key to reducing costs</h2>



The cost of access remains a critical barrier to the digital transformation of Africa, particularly in bringing last-mile access to previously excluded communities. In fact, <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1322483/average-price-for-mobile-data-in-africa/#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20the%20average%20cost,0.86%20U.S.%20dollars%20on%20average.">Statista</a> reports that the average cost of a gigabyte of data in Africa is among the highest in the world, which limits individuals and small businesses alike in taking full advantage of digital technologies. To help address this, we’re working on multiple fronts, including partnerships with global tech giants like Google and Microsoft to reduce the cost of data and cloud services. Partnerships with governments and regulators are also key to address policy reforms and the necessary regulation.



Africa cannot afford to allow the digital revolution to pass us by. The demographics of our continent, with a burgeoning youth population, make it imperative that we succeed. As the largest consumers of digital technology, the empowerment of our youth is crucial for the sustainability of our businesses and the continent’s future.



The Great African Digital Transformation is a journey that calls for intentionality, collaboration, and a relentless focus on creating opportunities. <a>It’s</a> about building a digitally connected future <a>that’s</a> inclusive by design, and that leaves no African behind. <a>That’s</a> our vision at Cassava Technologies.

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