Picture from CIPS Southern Africa South African businesses are embracing the digital supply chain revolution, marking a pivotal shift in procurement and logistics strategies. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), advanced analytics, and cloud computing has become a present reality, reshaping the global supply chain landscape. The Acceleration of Digital Adoption A recent KPMG report on global supply chain trends shows that 71% of organizations prioritize digital transformation to enhance agility and resilience, with AI-powered solutions taking the lead. Similarly, PwC’s Digital Supply Chain Survey highlights the benefits of digital maturity organizations with advanced digital supply chains report revenue growth…
Author: Roy Mulenga
Discovery Green and Sasol have partnered to introduce Ampli Energy, a renewable energy initiative designed to improve how South African businesses access clean, green electricity. This partnership offers flexible, monthly renewable energy options for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), which often face barriers to long-term energy solutions due to financial limitations and technical challenges. Transforming the Renewable Energy Landscape Previously, companies that wanted to shift to renewable energy had to enter into long-term power purchase agreements, often taking years to conclude. Most SMMEs could not sustain such commitments due to limited financial resources. Ampli Energy changes this by introducing…
A Bold Move to Empower Local Tech Innovators South Africa has announced an exciting R1 million prize pool for the Tech Challenge to empower the country’s most promising Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in tech. This bold step also forms part of a larger national effort to spark entrepreneurship, boost digital inclusion, and fuel economic growth in underserved communities. Innovation at the Core of the Competition The Department of Small Business Development, working alongside private sector partners, launched the Tech Challenge to invite SMMEs across South Africa to submit tech-based projects that tackle real-world problems. Whether the focus is…
As diseases grow more complex, the need for faster, more effective health solutions becomes increasingly urgent. There is a changing and innovative wind sweeping across the African continent in the healthcare scene, driven by artificial intelligence and advanced technology. This technology is no longer just theoretical it’s happening now, with the potential to improve the quality of medical care and services across the Continent of Africa. A Turning Point for Healthcare Access “At no other time since the rise of the personal computer (PC) have we seen such innovation,” says Dr. Steve Holt, CEO of First Care Solutions. “AI can democratize…
Honda has announced that it will not go into all Electric vehicle production and will pull back some of its resources towards all electric vehicles in favor of hybrid models. The decision comes as part of Hondas efforts to move at the same pace with the evolving markets and consumer preferences, particularly in areas and regions where charging infrastructures and range anxiety still remain huge challenges. Revised Roadmap for Electrification Originally, Honda had set outstanding targets for its EV lineup, with its goal set to achieve zero-emission by 2040. However changing market conditions such as slower adoption of EVs, high…
Nissan Motor Co. finds itself at a critical crossroads as it contemplates the closure of up to seven of its 17 global production facilities under its newly unveiled “Re: Nissan” turnaround strategy. Spearheaded by CEO Ivan Espinosa, the plan aims to cut approximately 15% of Nissan’s workforce some 20,000 jobs and shrink its manufacturing footprint to just ten plants by the end of fiscal 2027. Among the facilities under review are two long-standing Japanese sites (Oppama and Shonan) and key overseas operations in Mexico, Argentina, India and notably, the Rosslyn plant in South Africa. The Rosslyn facility, located just outside…
Airtel Africa Eyes Early 2026 IPO for Mobile Money Arm Amid Strategic Delay Strategic Delay Reflects Market Caution Airtel Africa has postponed the initial public offering (IPO) of its mobile money unit, Airtel Money, with the listing now expected in the first half of 2026. Initially planned for mid-2025, the delay reflects the company’s cautious approach to market conditions and its aim to improve investor value. CEO Sunil Taldar confirmed that preparations are ongoing, with the additional time allowing for deeper market engagement, regulatory readiness, and business consolidation read more here Positioning for Fintech Growth Airtel Africa, operating in 14…
A Stylish EV That Missed the Mark Fiat’s reimagined 500e, launched as an all-electric vehicle, made headlines for its retro-inspired charm and eco-friendly promise. However, despite its appealing design and compact practicality, the fully electric model has reportedly failed to meet sales expectations in several markets. Now, Fiat is adjusting its strategy by introducing a hybrid version of the beloved hatchback. The Shift to Hybrid: Meeting Market Realities While electric vehicles are gaining popularity worldwide, challenges like high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, and range continue to slow adoption of EVs. Fiat’s decision to offer a hybrid 500 recognizes these…
A New Era for Africa’s Industrial Development By championing green industrialization, Namibia sets a bold example for the rest of Africa by scaling sustainable economic growth. Meanwhile, while the world is currently fighting a battle with constricted energy resources and a climate crisis, Africa has the unique opportunity to shift its industrial paradigm using clean resources and innovation. Not only that, but Namibia is leading the charge, proving that green development is not merely wishful thinking; it is reality. Green Hydrogen and the Power of Innovation Pegged as the cornerstone of Namibia’s green strategy is green hydrogen, a clean energy…
Kenya is rapidly emerging as a technological leader in Africa, driven by its innovation, youthful population growing internet access, and supportive government policies. The country’s digital evolution spans across fintech, communication, innovation, and small business startups, positioning Kenya as a model for the region. FinTech Advancements: Beyond M-Pesa In the fintech space, Kenya has evolved beyond its mobile money pioneer M-Pesa. Digital lending platforms like Tala and Branch offer micro-loans using AI credit scoring, while the Central Bank of Kenya is increasing regulatory oversight. Cryptocurrency is gaining popularity, particularly among youth and traders using platforms such as Binance for remittances.…
