African Agriculture, Inc. (AAGR) is a US-based for-profit entity addressing the expanding regional and global challenges of food security and the resilience of food and food supply chain systems.



AAGR is primarily a producer of necessary staples for cattle feed, primarily alfalfa, looking to expand existing production for local, regional, and export consumption from its current operations in West Africa. A critical component of livestock feed, and therefore food security, alfalfa hay currently commands record high prices.



Impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russian-Ukraine war and the severe drought since 2021 in the Western US, one of the largest alfalfa production areas in the world, the global market is poised to grow significantly. The company seeks to expand plant-based protein source production, through collaboration with local farming collectives, providing nutrition for local and regional consumption, and simultaneously driving export-based revenue and corporate profitability.



The company is confident it addresses numerous United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in its approach (albeit accidentally), as it diversifies its production offering, and exposure to climates and regions across the African continent.



“We recognized that we had a very unique geographical location to produce alfalfa,” says Chairman and CEO, Alan Kessler. “Not only is the Sahara sun a perfect operational partner–the old adage to make hay while the sun shines–but the abundance of cattle in the Sahel, quoted as over 200 million heads of cattle provides a massive market opportunity both locally and regionally for our product.”



“Local dairy and beef production is evolving as a consequence of the scaled production of our product, developing local food access, and minimizing the economic waste of imports and foreign exchange utilization. As the company looked beyond alfalfa, the key was to look for reasons for yield discrepancies in agricultural production in say, Western Europe, and that of the African continent,” he adds.



“Consistent power, farming management, machinery and capital access, logistics, agronomy, soil understanding need to be addressed. I am very proud of the experienced management team and board of directors all of whom have substantial operational experience on the African continent. We are all aligned and driven to achieve our vision.”



After considerable investment in infrastructure and feasibility studies, AAGR began its commercial alfalfa operations early in 2022 and is already seeing considerable success in transforming desert-like arid conditions to ideal growing conditions for alfalfa. AAGR is already achieving worldclass yields and quality, and is working to expand its capital base to increase its production capability.



In 2021, AAGR signed an agreement with Louisiana State University’s Agcenter to bolster education and training in Senegal. Additionally, AAGR recently signed a letter of intent with the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University (MSU), to further develop the fields of soil science, agronomy, cattle nutrition, emissions, and animal genetics in Mauritania, an area of development for AAGR.



“The opportunity to work with US tertiary institutions with vast agricultural knowledge is a great pathway for skills transfer and development,” says Kessler. The company aspires to be positioned at the nexus of precision agriculture, yield optimization, and climate-smart approaches, on a continent that possesses the optimal growth conditions to address global food security challenges.



“African assets have historically been ascribed an Africa discount by global investors, given lack of liquidity in local capital markets, lack of strategic exit options, and historically challenged governance structures. Given Africa’s superior sun exposure, water purity, scalable land, extended and consistent



growing seasons that mitigate supply chain disruptions, a young and motivated local population, with a legacy in agriculture, and growing improving logistical capabilities, African agricultural opportunities should command an investment premium,” Kessler concludes.



In terms of impact, AAGR is dedicated to its local communities by partnership, creating employment and providing sustainable development. Like its icon the Baobab tree, the group believes in the ecosystem and the community which it fosters. In Senegal, this is apparent in their local land program which allocate 2000 hectares to the population of the villages of the Ndiael Reserve (Inter-Villagers Association living inside) each year. These lands are divided equally between the company’s two main local Communes of Ronkh and Ngnith. In addition, AAGR grants village organizations the distribution of alfalfa for their livestock feed. Moreover, they have implemented a maternal health program, “Shuttle for Sonograms” Before this shuttle, pregnant woman had to walk 52 kilometers on degraded roads to get Sonograms. The group now takes them in company shuttle buses to get necessary care. AAGR is currently working to repair schools, donate computers, reopen health facilities, and construct the Great Mosque of the Commune of Ngnith which covers 74 villages. They have started a dental program, working with a high school student group from the United States to boost dental awareness and provided the basics of dental health for 15,000 people. Officially they work for sports and community cohesion, via the local sports teams. AAGR defines their success in the growth of local communities. The private sector investment is anticipated to contribute to employment and economic development directly, and will include a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program that will enhance the agricultural and agronomy tertiary education at ENFVA (Ecole Nationale de Formation et de Vulgarisation Agricole), an established agricultural education center in the city of Kaédi, and a women&#8217;s reinsertion program in Mauritania. <a href="http://www.africanagriculture.com">www.africanagriculture.com</a>

AA-1

Making Hay Under The African Sun

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="546" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Brian-Mpono-Oceans-UMhlanga-Mixed-Use-Development-CEO-820x546.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-424889" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Brian-Mpono-Oceans-UMhlanga-Mixed-Use-Development-CEO-820x546.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Brian-Mpono-Oceans-UMhlanga-Mixed-Use-Development-CEO-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Brian-Mpono-Oceans-UMhlanga-Mixed-Use-Development-CEO-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Brian-Mpono-Oceans-UMhlanga-Mixed-Use-Development-CEO-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Brian-Mpono-Oceans-UMhlanga-Mixed-Use-Development-CEO.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



From humble beginnings, Brian didn’t settle into the welder role that was thrust upon him at the age of 16. Instead, he used this hunger to transform his destiny. After graduating from the University of KwaZulu-Natal with a Bachelor of Human Sciences in Media Communications and Management, he worked his career as a marketing, PR, and communications professional followed, but the entrepreneurial bug bit and in 2009, Brian started his own Biodiesel (500,000liter per month processing &amp; refinery plant) business in 2009. Staking his claim as the first young black South African in the renewable energies market, a title that also saw him develop and lead a series of infrastructure projects in the sector.&nbsp;



His foray into energy landed him an introduction to Vivian Reddy. Brian worked his way up to being Head of Corporate Affairs, Chief of Staff to Executive Director of Edison Power. His high ambitious character from the day he walked through the doors of Vivian Reddy’s offices, he equally grew to be an integral part of Vivian Reddy’s flagship development that is the R4,3bn International Award-Winning Oceans Umhlanga Mixed-Use Development. Starting off by spearheading the IPO (under a billion rand Capital Raising) for the hotel portion (officially called Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga). It is the biggest private mixed-use development in South Africa. Being the voice and face of the game changing investment, Brian serves as the Group Corporate Affairs Executive [CEO] for entire Oceans Umhlanga Development, in KZN he’s become known affectionately as “Mr. Oceans” and in very serious senior&nbsp; Corporate &amp; Professional circles he’s referred to as Vivian Reddy’s Right-Hand Man who travels the world advocating for not just the business hes involved in but the business of tourism, foreign &amp; local investment into the city of durban; whos overall focus has been to grow and build the 45year old Edison Corporation empire founded by business titan Vivian Reddy.



Brian Mpono is also the Group Marketing Executive for the Technodyn Group, a group of companies working in the dynamic Information Technology industry. In his role, he brings together the overall marketing strategy and market voice of the different businesses and creates cohesion between its brands to facilitate its business strategy. Technodyn IFS being the biggest in the group of companies.&nbsp; A disruptor with a keen sense for business and a DNA entrenched in innovation, Brian is a serial entrepreneur and consummate marketing professional, melding his expertise to multiple industries with great success. At the Technodyn Group of Companies, he uses his extensive understanding of business, passion for mentorship, and dedication to socio-economic development, to drive the organisation into new markets while helping clients realise the value of leveraging data and technology to unearth the secrets to success their businesses hold. He travels Africa for TDG, the biggest tech infrastructure company in Africa, which bought the rights for Africa of two multi billion dollar European and US tech companies to unearth the vast potential on the African continent. It’s products service the entire US Navy, the majority of the aviation world runs on the tech that TDG deploys in Africa.&nbsp;



An energetic, pioneering, and passionate speaker, Brian has continued his personal growth and attended the Gordon Institute of Business Science. His trophy cabinet boasts accolades such as inclusion in the 60 Most Enterprising South African, Sowetan Top 100 Bosses, finalist in the Under 35 Maverick Award for High-End Innovation, and a Disruptor in The Young Independents: Mzanzi100.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brian-Mpono-Oceans-UMhlanga-Mixed-Use-Development-CEO

OCEANS UMHLANGA MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="605" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Florie-and-Pres.-Masisi-820x605.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-424843" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Florie-and-Pres.-Masisi-820x605.jpeg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Florie-and-Pres.-Masisi-300x221.jpeg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Florie-and-Pres.-Masisi-122x90.jpeg 122w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Florie-and-Pres.-Masisi-768x566.jpeg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Florie-and-Pres.-Masisi.jpeg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Washington DC – During a visit to Gaborone, Botswana, Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) President and CEO Florizelle “Florie” Liser was honored to meet with H.E. Mokgweetsi Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, who reiterated his Government’s commitment to successfully co-hosting &nbsp;the 15th U.S.-Africa Business Summit (USABS) in Botswana later this year.&nbsp; President Masisi noted that key Cabinet officials who were in attendance at the meeting were ready to mobilize their ministries and work collaboratively with CCA and the private sector to organize a highly successful Summit. Following several days of government and private sector meetings as well as site visits, Ms. Liser was pleased to announce with Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Hon. Mmusi Kgafela that the Summit will be held July 11-14, 2023 in Gaborone. The announcement was made Friday, February 3, 2023 at the Minister’s office along with the signing of an agreement between CCA and the Government of Botswana.



The U.S.-Africa Business Summit is the Corporate Council on Africa’s premier annual event, bringing together African heads of state, senior U.S. and African government officials, and top CEO’s and senior business executives from the U.S. and Africa spanning major business sectors that are critical to the continent’s development. &nbsp;These include infrastructure, ICT / digital, health, energy, mining, agriculture, consumer goods, finance, tourism and creative industries.



The 15th USABS theme “Enhancing Africa’s Value in Global Value Chains” highlights an issue that was heavily discussed during the U.S. &#8211; Africa Business Forum, hosted by President Joseph R. Biden on the second day of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington, DC in December 2022.&nbsp;During the Forum, President Biden announced more than $55 billion in new U.S. government programs to support trade, investment and development in Africa along with more than $15 billion in new trade and investment deals made by private sector companies that were in attendance.&nbsp; CCA was proud to have co-organized the U.S.-Africa Business Forum which highlighted opportunities for greater collaboration between the U.S. and African private sector.&nbsp; This year’s CCA Summit will build on and advance those discussions, further deepening U.S.-Africa economic engagement and business ties.&nbsp;



With a desire to keep the positive momentum going from the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit and Business Forum, Ms. Florie Liser stated that &#8221; the U.S.-Africa Business Summit is an important platform and opportunity to again bring together U.S. and African government and private sector leaders to grow U.S.-Africa trade, business, and mutually beneficial gains for the people and businesses of both the United States and Africa.”



Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry the Honorable Mmusi Kgafela said, “We look forward to working with our partners at the Corporate Council on Africa to herald a new era of two-way trade and investment between Africa and the United States. We welcome U.S. private sector businesses to drive investment and technology that can enhance Africa’s role in key global value chains, create jobs, and spur economic growth here in Botswana and across the continent.”

Florie-and-Pres.-Masisi

U.S.-Africa Business Summit to be held July 11-14 in Gaborone, Botswana

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/hand-with-card-laptop-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-424963" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/hand-with-card-laptop-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/hand-with-card-laptop-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/hand-with-card-laptop-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/hand-with-card-laptop-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/hand-with-card-laptop-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/hand-with-card-laptop-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hands holding credit card and using laptop. Female hands making online payment. Purchase and Buy online. Online shopping. Business infographic</figcaption></figure>



Technological solutions that embrace the needs of the customer; that reshape the payments, financing, and banking structure; and that embed speed, service and real-time visibility into transactions and engagements – these are the innovations that sit at the very edge of the digital transformation frontier. These are the steps financial services organisations take as they seek out new ways of connecting with customers, building market share and building stable foundations that are capable of withstanding the aftershocks of global uncertainty.



Digital innovation has become the de facto step taken by companies that want to thrive. This is reflected by a growing evolution in digital services and investments. A recent KPMG report entitled ‘<a href="https://assets.kpmg.com/content/dam/kpmg/cn/pdf/en/2021/04/accelerating-digital-finance.pdf">Accelerating digital finance’</a> found that the customers of 2023 are likely to be far more demanding when it comes to personalisation, frictionless transactions, and protection of their data. It’s an interesting shift that is already playing out – <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/industries/customer-experience-transformation-in-banking/">Amazon’s Banking Trends 2022</a> highlights how customers want frictionless and instant access to banking solutions, while <a href="https://www.accenture.com/us-en/insights/banking/consumer-study-making-digital-banking-more-human">Accenture</a> underscores the importance of understanding the ever-changing customer.



So, what does this mean? It means that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation will very likely pick up the weight of the admin and enhance the organisation’s ability to develop micro services that are curated to meet specific customer demographics and expectations. In a recent article from <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0275531922000046">Science Direct Research in International Business and Finance</a>, the authors state that AI is rapidly evolving to become a key selling point for financial institutions as it allows for improvements across reputation, trust and capability. It also supports one of the key challenges faced by financial institutions today – cybersecurity. AI is invaluable in lifting the digital load and helping financial institutions to create frictionless experiences for their customers while protecting critical assets and embedding trust across customers and stakeholders.



Personalisation is also, of course, a critical factor when it comes to digital innovation within this sector. A recent study released by Genesys on the <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-banking-study-reveals-growth-benefits-of-personalization-innovation-and-trust-in-customer-experience-301674711.html">challenge of customer-centric banking</a> found that financial institutions that are capable of delivering high-end customer experiences are also more likely to attract new customers, achieve their strategic objectives and hold on to their talent.



Personalisation is more than a nice idea – it’s critical to ensuring that customers remain engaged and connected to the financial institutions they choose. The Genesys report also found that 61%&nbsp;of banking executives felt that customer expectations are rising and 45% said that they are struggling to keep up with them. But keep up they must, because customers are increasingly rejecting generic products and solutions that don’t reflect their identity or their needs.



Nedbank believes that there are three key steps for ensuring that the financial institutions can leverage digital and accelerate innovation. The first is to focus on digital services that are designed to support everyday activities but that are also supported by people-centric engagements and touchpoints. This means taking personalisation beyond technology-powered connections and capabilities and ensuring that there is always a human element ready to step in and nurture the customer at points of frustration, and at times when there is room to nurture their potential. Here, digital innovation needs to be paired with a personalised, flexible and proactive approach that combines digital services with hands-on expertise.



Secondly, financial institutions need to provide customers with access to relationship bankers, specialists and customer service desks that are agile enough to meet customers where they are today and take them where they need to be tomorrow. It’s the evolution of digital from a functional toolkit that enhances the bank’s innate capabilities towards a sophisticated ecosystem that allows for more complex client-level decision-making. Digital when you want it, human when you need it, and innovative where it should be: at the center of the business.



This sits at the core of Nedbank Private Clients and our commitment to enabling financial aspirations within an ecosystem that is powered by digital and empowered by people. We believe that banking should be a complete experience, providing people with a dedicated relationship banker, preferential rates and support for careers and personal growth, as well as giving them access to relevant wealth solutions. With Nedbank you gain access to a personal success toolkit that’s driven by digital and innovation as well as a desire to ensure that people thrive in their careers and financial lives.



<a>For more information on our specialised</a> services and solutions, as well as tailored prices, contact us at privateclients@nedbank.co.za.

Hands holding credit card and using laptop

Personalisation meets cutting-edge technology: Unlocking the future of digital innovation in financial services

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="714" height="800" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dave-H-11-714x800.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-424268" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dave-H-11-714x800.jpg 714w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dave-H-11-268x300.jpg 268w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dave-H-11-80x90.jpg 80w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dave-H-11-768x861.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dave-H-11-1370x1536.jpg 1370w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dave-H-11.jpg 1628w" sizes="(max-width: 714px) 100vw, 714px" /></figure>



In July 2022, a Notice amendment to the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) was introduced into law that impacts every employer in South Africa, including those who engage the services of domestic workers and gardeners.



Under this Notice, the Compensation Fund Commissioner sought to provide a regulated system of “no fault” compensation for injury or illness as a result of an individual’s occupation, and loss-of-income relief to an individual or their family, as well as claims for ‘reasonable medical expenses’.



It is a criminal offence for anyone who has not registered under COIDA, and, confirms Dave Honeyman, Head of Accidents and Health, SHA (a division of Santam) “this means that the 46% of South African companies (some 200 000) that have not registered, and likely millions of domestic worker employers, are now subject to a penalty or jail term.



“Any employer that thinks they can fly under the radar of this Act is mistaken. The Department of Labour has recently engaged additional inspectors who will be visiting businesses and homes, to check their registration status.”



May be wary of COIDA but Honeyman says they have no reason to be. “It’s good legislation because it addresses the historic unequal position that workers found themselves in when an employer denied them any form of compensation if they became critically ill, were injured or disabled, or died, as a result of their occupation.



Honeyman explains that in these circumstances through COIDA, income is protected up to 75% to a maximum claim of R529 264 per year “It is also relatively inexpensive at between two and three percent of the employee’s salary. This is a relief for claimants, but it can take up to a year for the claim to be verified.”



“It got us thinking that even if a person was not at a workplace and suffered an accident or injury that caused disability or death, the extended family would still be financially compromised.”



This is why SHA introduced the Employee Injury Assist policy. “This gap cover will pay within 48 hours on a health or accident event, even if such an event occurs outside of the workplace. It is, however, conditional on being registered with the Compensation Commissioner, which SHA undertakes to do on our client’s behalf,” says Honeyman.



The Employee Injury Assist policy is also far-reaching in its benefits for it bridges the potential one-year COID claim payout time gap, and offers additional benefits, such as facilitating a SHA initiated 24/7 ambulance request, as well as hospital admittance accompanied by COID forms. SHA will also monitor COID claims until the end of the claim process.



SHA has also appointed itself as custodians of COID because undertaking the training of health and safety officers, and brokers. &#8220;With our direct involvement we are seeing a 95% success rate for brokers signing up new policyholders.



Existing clients can simply add it onto their existing SHA policies, and new clients can apply online via SHA or face-to-face.

Dave-H-11

COIDA and Santam SHA work together to protect all employees

Across the globe, much of financial services are done using mobile phones. From point-of-sale purchases to sending money to friends or family, digital wallets and using apps for payable services such as rides, food delivery, and bill pay, our world is intrinsically tied to mobile digital financial services (mDFS). The potential to bring efficient, seamless, and easy access to money for citizens of countries in the midst of change is high- and so is the potential for fraud. Governments need to prepare for and defend against fraudulent actors. This involves investing in stronger infrastructure and deploying more secure production requirements as current ones become obsolete with a transition to 5G in many sectors. For example, many regions rely on unstable networks and have limited access to internet.&nbsp;



Limited resources can impede progress. The ever-expanding array of attacker strategies aimed at stealing or compromising financial and personal data, combined with continuing challenges in creating <a>a foundation</a> that provides access to both broadband internet and banking-related services, results in significant variations in the ability of both individuals and businesses to securely access mDFS.



In our quest to provide tech for public good, we at <a href="https://mitre-engenuity.org/">MITRE Engenuity</a> are rising to the challenge and have developed an analytical risk model that uses information from a nation’s current systems to produce recommendations of resource investments that will most efficiently lower risk associated with attacks.



The model provides a flexible yet consistent approach. First, it identifies the most relevant cybersecurity threats and obstacles to secure access <a>in a given</a> sector. Following this analysis, it then recommends the policy and technical approaches most applicable to expanding and improving secure mDFS access.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technical-policy">Technical + Policy</h2>



This model simultaneously draws upon a “unique blend of deeply technical subject matter experts across multiple disciplines,” says Cynthia Wright, model researcher and MITRE Principal Cybersecurity Engineer. She notes that it is based on a <a href="https://www.mitre.org/news-insights/publication/enhanced-cyber-threat-model-financial-services-sector-institutions">model</a> that pinpoints potential means of attack on financial services enterprises and its insights were mined from industries including “international cyber capacity building, cybersecurity engineering, systems engineering, and cyber threat intelligence.”


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="628" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ABN-Graphics-mDFS-Graphic-1200x628-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-424348" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ABN-Graphics-mDFS-Graphic-1200x628-3.png 1200w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ABN-Graphics-mDFS-Graphic-1200x628-3-300x157.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ABN-Graphics-mDFS-Graphic-1200x628-3-820x429.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ABN-Graphics-mDFS-Graphic-1200x628-3-160x84.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ABN-Graphics-mDFS-Graphic-1200x628-3-768x402.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure></div>


Drawing upon MITRE’s deep cyber threat modeling expertise and its <a href="https://www.mitre.org/news-insights/impact-story/mitre-strengthens-cyber-capacity-developing-nations">International Cyber Capacity Building Framework</a>, the MITRE Engenuity <a href="https://7754670.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/7754670/Incubations%20Investments%20Papers/For%20Pub%20Engenuity%20mDFS%20Risk%20Model%20Development%20Report_ME0044_Final.pdf">mDFS Risk Management Model (RMM)</a> uses a “dual lens” approach that combines both technical and policy/governance risk factors and mitigants to create a comprehensive and multi-dimensional view of the challenges that threaten the mDFS ecosystems.



Cultivated from this extensive array of expert knowledge and resources, the mDFS RMM is one of the most comprehensive models ever developed for <a>the mobile</a> space. Users identify recommendations tailored to their country’s unique technology and policy environment that will reduce risk, improve access, and increase trust.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="628" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Incorporates-1200x628-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-424350" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Incorporates-1200x628-3.png 1200w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Incorporates-1200x628-3-300x157.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Incorporates-1200x628-3-820x429.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Incorporates-1200x628-3-160x84.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Incorporates-1200x628-3-768x402.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure></div>


Validation results have arrived



Cynthia also shared that, as part of our support to the <a href="https://engineering.cmu.edu/news-events/news/2022/09/27-gates-foundation.html">mobile money cybersecurity initiative</a> for the <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/">Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation</a>, MITRE Engenuity conducted a study to test the efficacy of the RMM by applying it to several countries with very different technology and policy/governance ecosystems, for example levels of financial inclusion and access to internet connectivity: Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Togo.



Overall, the research validated the RMM, since for each country it could identify a combination of technical and policy approaches that would more widely improve access and security than technical approaches alone can provide. In the next step of validation individuals and organizations deeply familiar with the countries will examine the policy/governance recommendations provided by the model and determine their relevance for assisting the countries in improving their mDFS ecosystems. (The technical security recommendations are straightforward and well-validated in other models.)



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Accessing model output</h2>



As a companion to the model generating the recommendations, MITRE Engenuity developed a dynamic software platform that automates the methods that the model uses. This enables users who are not cyber experts to select relevant characteristics in the chosen community and use them to assess what risks are most prominent. The platform also generates both technical and policy/governance recommendations that can be used to apply risk mitigation strategies, such as enabling security mechanisms like PINs, passwords, and biometrics.



This platform is ready for pilot testing for a particular objective and application in any of the following use cases:



<ul>
<li>Donor Nations or Assistance Organizations:<ul><li>Use the RMM to identify which of the prominent risk factors in a specific country or area best align with assistance goals and resources, as an aid to focusing resourcing efforts.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Identify technology or governance approaches that are appropriate to a specific country as an aid to developing achievable goals and incentive initiatives.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>National Governments:<ul><li>Use the RMM to optimize limited resources by narrowing the risk landscape. Identify where policy/governance approaches can mitigate risks, even in a diverse technical ecosystem.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Identify incentives or disincentives that may affect mDFS access and security, such as specific policies toward licensing, fees, taxation, etc. Identify less obvious contributing factors to mDFS adoption and security, such as gender policies, education curricula, the presence of a national digital identification program, or the availability and security of agent networks, that could be modified through policy.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Technology (including Fintech) Companies and Regulatory entities:<ul><li>Identify approaches such as specific technology features and standards that can provide widescale improvements in ecosystem security.</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Identify national or regional trade and cooperation approaches that could help or hinder adoption of mDFS technologies, applications, etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="628" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Africa.Business-Imagery-1200X628-2.png" alt="" class="wp-image-424351" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Africa.Business-Imagery-1200X628-2.png 1200w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Africa.Business-Imagery-1200X628-2-300x157.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Africa.Business-Imagery-1200X628-2-820x429.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Africa.Business-Imagery-1200X628-2-160x84.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mDFS-Africa.Business-Imagery-1200X628-2-768x402.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure></div>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Give it a go</h2>



We think it is time for widespread use and feedback from the nations driving and benefiting from this work!



MITRE Engenuity wants to define and implement more features, engage with content creators or maintainers, and support ongoing development.&nbsp; But it needs input from real-world users. <a href="https://riskmodel.mitre-engenuity.org/">Access the tool and run a risk assessment</a>. The MITRE team is happy to accept questions about any of the topics discussed in this article or feature requests at mdfs@mitre-engenuity.org and to <a href="https://mitre-engenuity.org/growing-impact/cyber-risk-model-mobile-digital-financial-services/">read about the cyber risk model management tool</a>.

e-wallet-6368676_1280

Mobile money: finding security risks for investment opportunities

NEW Avon Hydramatic Matte Lipstick: bold on the outside, caring to the core



While history has it that the first commercial lipstick was invented in 1884 by French perfumers, lipstick dates back some 5000 years ago were ancient Sumerian and Indus Valley men and women were possibly the first to invent and wear it when they crushed gemstones to decorate their faces, mainly on the lips.



Since then, lipstick has become almost every woman’s darling best friend that she drapes on her lips and takes everywhere in the bag. Many research studies have discovered that lipstick has become much more than mere makeup but it’s become a tool of empowerment that enables them to present themselves and express their beauty. And, while colors and ingredients evolve as the years go by, the objective of applying lipstick doesn’t change: “to express inner beauty with outer self.”



One of the most popular lipstick types amongst women is the matte lipstick. Women love it because of its bold colors, ease of application, it’s customizable, water and smudge-proof, and its long-lasting. But there is a downside to it: the undesirable feeling of dry lips.



“Avon asked thousands of women around the world to share what they would love in their dream lipstick,” Lukasz Kowalczyk, Head of Onmichannel Brand Experience at Avon Justine. “They desire a matte lipstick with amazing color that stays matte but keeps their lips feeling moisturized.”



As a result, Avon, has launched a world-first matte lipstick with the bold colors that women love and a hyaluronic hydrating core which gives lips the moisture they crave. Avon’s new Hydramatic Lipstick is a matte lipstick with a revolutionary hyaluronic core that helps to hydrate lips.



Through the Hydramatic Lipstick, Avon’s team of scientists and experts have created a central core, powered by an exclusive blend of skincare ingredients: hyaluronic acid and glycerin, and surrounded it with intense matte colour.



The game-changing lipstick is available in 12 shades that are suitable for all skin tones, and retails at only ZAR129, true to Avon’s mantra that People #ChooseAvon for high quality products at a fraction of the cost.



Emily Howarth, Global Head of Make Up at Avon, adds: “There is nothing else like Hydramatic Matte Lipstick on the market. We’re proud to be the first to bring this groundbreaking technology to women all over the world at a price point which is accessible for all. Welcome to the new era of matte lipstick: bold on the outside and caring to the core – just like the women we’re proud to have supported for over 136 years.”



Avon sells one Ultra Lipstick every three seconds globally1 and newest to the line is Hydramatic Matte Lipstick which takes innovation one step further by combining the matte look with the moisturising comfort all women are looking for.



Avon Hydramatic Matte Lipstick will be available exclusively via Avon’s Online store (www.avon.co.za), through any Avon representative countrywide from 1 March 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-avon">About Avon</h2>



Avon has been doing beauty differently for 136 years. Avon is a company that connects people, using the power of beauty to transform lives for the better. Millions of independent sales Representatives across the world sell iconic Avon brands through their social networks, building their own beauty businesses on a full- or part-time basis. Avon stands for gender equality, and we believe in listening to women’s needs, speaking out about issues that matter and creating positive change. Through Avon and the Avon Foundation we’ve donated over $1.1billion, with a focus on tackling gender violence and breast cancer. Avon is part of the Natura &amp;Co Group. Learn more at www.avonworldwide.com.

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World’s FIRST matte lipstick with a hydrating hyaluronic core now available!

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3H7A7372Westpro-IPO-Press-Conference-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-424067" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3H7A7372Westpro-IPO-Press-Conference-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3H7A7372Westpro-IPO-Press-Conference-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3H7A7372Westpro-IPO-Press-Conference-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3H7A7372Westpro-IPO-Press-Conference-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3H7A7372Westpro-IPO-Press-Conference-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/3H7A7372Westpro-IPO-Press-Conference-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Zimbabwean property developer West Properties has recently announced its intention to list on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange



(VFEX) on April 28th, 2023, marking a significant milestone for the company and the Zimbabwean property market.



This move signals West Properties&#8217; commitment towards enhancing its growth prospects and increasing investor confidence in the company.



It will also further expand the pool of investment opportunities available on the VFEX, which has rapidly emerged as one of the most attractive



investment destinations in the African region.



West Properties is a leading player in Zimbabwe&#8217;s property development landscape, with a portfolio spanning across residential, commercial



and industrial properties. According to West Properties, the IPO is to raise capital to accelerate the development of ongoing projects that include Pokugara Residential Estate, Millennium Heights, Pomona City, The Mall of Zimbabwe, Millennium Heights Office Park, and the Warren Hills Golf Estate. West Properties chief executive officer, Mr Ken Sharpe said the preferential shares allow investors a period of 5 years before they decide to become ordinary shareholders, a period during which they will benefit from a minimum guaranteed return of 7,5 percent per year as well as dividends from the company’s profits.



The company has established a strong reputation for delivering high-quality properties that meet the diverse needs of its clients.



It received approval to list the two categories of its share capital, namely its ordinary shares and preference shares. The company intends to issue up to



5,400,000 convertible redeemable participating preference shares at a price of US$5 each, representing an aggregate amount of up to US$27 million.



It intends to issue up to 1 million ordinary shares at a price of US$10 each, representing an aggregate amount of up to US$10 million bringing the



cumulative amount to US$37 million. The minimum subscription of shares has been pegged at US$50 (10 shares) for preference shares at US$5 each,



while ordinary shares at US$100 (10 shares) at US$10 each.



The timing of the listing has been carefully selected, taking into account various market factors and the current economic climate in Zimbabwe. The VFEX, which was launched in 2020, has already witnessed significant interest from local and international investors, thanks to its unique value proposition and the potential for attractive returns.



The listing is expected to provide West Properties with access to a broader pool of investors, enabling the company to raise capital for strategic growth initiatives and expand its market share. Furthermore, listing on the VFEX will provide the company with increased visibility and credibility, enhancing its brand and opening up opportunities for strategic partnerships and collaborations.



Commenting on the announcement, a spokesperson for West Properties said, We are excited to list on the VFEX, which we believe is the ideal platform for us to showcase our brand and unlock new growth opportunities. As a leading player in the Zimbabwean property market, we are committed to delivering exceptional value to our investors and stakeholders, and we believe that this listing is a significant step in that direction.

3H7A7372Westpro-IPO-Press-Conference

Zimbabwean property  developer west properties lists IPO on the Victoria falls stock exchange VFEX

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="801" height="711" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Daniel-Padiachy-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-423814" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Daniel-Padiachy-2.jpg 801w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Daniel-Padiachy-2-300x266.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Daniel-Padiachy-2-101x90.jpg 101w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Daniel-Padiachy-2-768x682.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 801px) 100vw, 801px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Daniel Padiachy, Executive: Supply Chain, Marketing and Technology at McDonald’s South Africa</figcaption></figure>



Collaborations are often born out of synergies and common values between organizations, and this is no different in the partnership between McDonald’s South Africa and FORBES WOMAN AFRICA.



McDonald’s South Africa has ventured into a two-year partnership with FORBES WOMAN AFRICA as a headline sponsor for the FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women Summit. By forging this alliance, the two organizations, each of which is a pioneer in its own field bringing about significant and positive changes in society, highlight the power of women.



“The partnership between McDonald&#8217;s SA and the FORBES WOMAN AFRICA Leading Women Summit is one that speaks to synergy and the beliefs that both organizations hold when it comes to diversity, equity, inclusion as well as women empowerment. McDonald’s SA believes in platforms that foster dialogue amongst female leaders to cross-weave their knowledge and drive socio-economic change,” says Daniel Padiachy, Executive: Supply Chain, Marketing and Technology at McDonald’s South Africa.



Real change is seen when women from different spheres provide each other a platform where they can learn, bestow knowledge and grow together. The power of women connecting and supporting each other should never be underestimated. Engaging women in leadership positions will champion other women. Thus, creating a safe environment where women can unlock their potential which leads to safe and functional communities.



McDonald’s South Africa has its own Women Leadership Network, a platform that encourages a cross-weaving of knowledge and inspires change among subject matter experts. It also aims to honor women by acknowledging and celebrating their achievements through conversations with phenomenal women in their own spaces of influence. Since its inception in 2021, the McDonald’s South Africa purpose-led initiative has reached over thousands of women across the country.



We have the responsibility and opportunity to bridge the gap and play our part in ensuring that women are offered equal opportunities and thus drive inclusion. We embrace this opportunity to drive meaningful progress, and to do so through our own initiatives as well as through collaborations. We are strongly invested in ensuring a world free of bias, with equal representation and an equal opportunity for women’s voices to be heard.



As big businesses we need to take this seriously and be committed as it allows for an opportunity to engage with women from all walks of life. We believe that we should always walk the talk, and not just talk the talk.



As McDonald’s South Africa, over the past 26 years, we are proud to have had over 65% women in our business; we continuously find ways to enable everyone within our business, not only focusing on women but inclusively bringing men along. The key driver in our business is a constant push against complacency, we strive to uphold transformation and excellence in all our interactions in all aspects of our business be it with our employees, executives or even our suppliers, thus giving us an opportunity to build a brand that lives in the hearts of our people.



Our young generation of women should always be empowered and encouraged to become better leaders who alter the narrative in their spheres, thus creating a bright future for their communities through conversations and action. By providing opportunities for women to succeed and realize their full potential, we hope to continue disrupting the power dynamic and alter the current status quo.

Daniel-Padiachy-1

A Partnership Creating A Platform For Women To Power On

FCMB Group Plc (“FCMB Group” or “the Group”) has successfully completed the issuance of a <s>N</s>20,686,000,000 Perpetual 16% Fixed Rate Resettable NC5.25 Additional Tier I Capital Subordinated Bonds (“the Series I Bond” or “the AT1” or “the Instrument”) under its <s>N</s>300,000,000,000 Debt Issuance Programme.



The Group’s AT1 Issuance is the first non-sharia local currency AT1 instrument issued in Nigeria and the Group’s maiden issuance of its N300 billion funding programme in the Nigerian Capital Markets to support its next phase of growth.



The book build commenced on January 24, 2023, and closed on February 3, 2023. The offer was well received by the market with active participation from a diverse range of high-value investors, including Corporates, other Financial Institutions, Trustees and high net-worth individuals. The AT1 instrument was issued at a clearing coupon rate of 16.0% per annum.



The successful Series I Bond issuance highlights the Group’s track record of innovation across a broad spectrum of the Nigerian financial service industry and is in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s desire for financial sector stability and well capitalized banks. The net proceeds from the Series I Bond will be invested in the Group’s Banking Subsidiary – First City Monument Bank Limited (“the Bank”) – enhancing the Bank’s Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios and enabling the Group and the Bank to expand its support for the growth and development of the Nigerian economy.



Commenting on the Series I Bond issuance:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="549" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LB-01-003-820x549.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-423745" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LB-01-003-820x549.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LB-01-003-300x201.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LB-01-003-134x90.jpg 134w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LB-01-003-768x514.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LB-01-003-1536x1028.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LB-01-003-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ladi Balogun, Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group Plc</figcaption></figure>



Ladi Balogun, Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group Plc said,



“FCMB Group Plc is grateful to our investors, advisers and regulators (particularly the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Central Bank of Nigeria)for their support on the maiden issuance in our N300 billion bond programme. The innovative structure of a perpetual, income yielding, bond that qualifies as tier 1 capital, &#8211; a first of its kind in the domestic Capital Markets &#8211; achieves 3 objectives for our investors: it is non-dilutive for existing shareholders; creates capacity for potentially improved earnings per share and dividends per share; and provides an attractive income stream for investors in this instrument. We are also pleased to have been able to support our largest banking subsidiary towards the attainment of its growth, risk management and strategic objectives with this investment. .”



Yemisi Edun, Managing Director of First City Monument Bank Limited said,



“FCMB is very proud to be a part of a group that embraces innovation and thanks the investor community for their support which will enable the Bank to achieve its long-term strategy. In addition to strengthening the Bank’s capital base which will comply with the forthcoming application of Basel III capital requirements, the AT-1 bond will enable the Bank to finance incremental term lending in priority sectors.”

LB-01-003

FCMB GROUP PLC ANNOUNCES THE ISSUANCE OF N20,686,000,000 SERIES 1 PERPETUAL 16% FIXED RATE BOND

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/image001-2-820x547.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-423588" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/image001-2-820x547.webp 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/image001-2-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/image001-2-135x90.webp 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/image001-2-768x513.webp 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/image001-2-1536x1025.webp 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/image001-2-scaled.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



A cursory internet search on immunisation in Africa will likely bring up images of an adult holding a child. In most instances, the adult is a woman.



This is a simple yet sobering insight into the role women play in protecting the health of children —one that cannot be overlooked in our collective effort to get immunisation coverage back on track following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.



In Africa, like in many other places, childcare is primarily the responsibility of the woman. As a result, there is a direct correlation between immunisation and women’s empowerment. When women are able to make decisions about their families’ health and household finances, there is a higher likelihood of their children being vaccinated. Empowered women – be it through formal education, poverty reduction, economic opportunity and financial literacy – can improve child health and reduce mortality, especially in children under the age of five.



This is especially critical in Africa, where children are 10 times more likely to die before their fifth birthday than children in high-income countries; and where, despite dramatic improvements in vaccine coverage over the decades, an estimated 2.5 million children still die every year from vaccine-preventable diseases such as polio, measles, yellow fever and rotavirus, among others.



Armed with this knowledge, how can we ensure that women in Africa are empowered enough to fully protect their children from life-threatening diseases? First, we must recognise the social and cultural nuances within communities. This means acknowledging both women’s primary role in childcare and children’s access to essential health services, and the role of men as the enforcers of culture and controllers of family finances in many African communities – then design effective immunisation accordingly.



From there, health policymakers and those delivering care should tap into the extensive body of research on household power dynamics in different settings and consider the factors that inform how decision-making power influences healthcare seeking behaviours. This research should be used to design gender-sensitive immunisation programmes that seek to widen access and empower both men and women to participate as partners in childbearing and rearing. Formalising gender-lens immunisation programming through gender policies is also an important foundation.



To involve both women and men, we must break down the norms that disempower women as decision-makers and keep men from seeing children’s health as a joint responsibility. The endorsement of men’s engagement by community elders, many of whom are male, is one crucial way to address cultural barriers that have traditionally absolved men of the duty to make health decisions for their children.



Studies have shown that involving men in childhood immunisation could improve and sustain coverage. There are also ongoing and practical examples of promoting joint responsibility when it comes to specific health-related practices, which have resulted in attitudes and behaviour shifting. By educating men (alongside efforts to educate women) and nurturing them



as champions of immunisation, we can advance and sustain efforts to ensure that every child, everywhere, is immunised against vaccine-preventable diseases.



In addition, those overseeing and delivering immunisation programmes must centre women in their efforts and take into account local contexts and nuances when relaying information. They need to ensure that both primary (often women) and secondary (often men) caregivers receive contextually relevant and culturally sensitive information through easily accessible channels, be they mainstream media, door-to-door engagements or public gatherings. Such information must be delivered in simple language and formats understood by the community, with the benefits of immunisation clearly outlined alongside information on where to procure these services.



These recommendations are by no means exhaustive, but they draw on central themes that were discussed at the Africa Health Agenda International Conference (AHAIC) in Kigali recently when experts from around the world gathered to explore possible solutions to gender inequality in Africa, and how countries could better safeguard the health of African children, women and families.



They also offer a starting point from which we can begin to address gender-related barriers to childhood immunisation in Africa. In doing so, we can empower women and save the lives of over half a million children – including the millions of zero-dose children who die from lack of access to immunisation each year.



By Chioma Nwachukwu – Head of Public Policy Engagement (Regional and Country) Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance Awa Dieng, Regional Manager – West Africa Hub, Amref Health Africa

image001-2

A Gendered Approach to Immunisation: Involving Africa’s Women to Protect Communities

By Nicolas Peltier-Thiberge and Rogier van den Berg



Transportation is a crucial enabler of economic development, providing people access to markets, employment, education, and health services. In addition to these development benefits, improving transport systems by making them cleaner, safer, more inclusive and more resilient accelerates climate action locally and globally. But despite transport’s relevance to major development objectives, significant gaps remain that hinder progress and the positive impact that better transportation can have on poverty reduction, economic growth, and climate goals.



Developing country governments, city governments, multilateral development banks, and the private sector must all work together to advance more sustainable transport solutions in the developing world. This requires addressing the following five key transport challenges facing developing countries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenge-1-addressing-the-negative-consequences-that-unsustainable-transportation-can-have-on-climate-air-pollution-and-road-safety">Challenge #1: Addressing the negative consequences that unsustainable transportation can have on climate, air pollution, and road safety.</h2>



Transport contributes about a quarter of the world’s CO2 emissions. Meanwhile, every year, complications from air pollution claim more than 7 million lives and road crashes take another 1.3 million. To make progress on broad-based sustainable development, countries must find ways to lower emissions from transport that also improve access to economic opportunities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Solution: Take action to avoid excessive travel demand, shift to sustainable modes, and improve efficiency.</h2>



There are many ways countries can apply this framework to reduce emissions and promote better mobility. Enhancing public transport is perhaps the single most powerful way to simultaneously improve mobility while limiting carbon emissions and pollution. Improving the quality and reach of public transit networks, and linking them with efforts to safely enable walking and cycling in well-planned cities, can bring additional benefits. New technologies – such as electric mobility – are now within reach for many developing countries. Governments can support the use of electric buses, bikes and rickshaws with investments in charging infrastructure and creative financing options to make electric versions affordable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenge #2: Climate-proofing transport infrastructure.</h2>



Complex, interlinked transport systems make our world work, but they are highly vulnerable to natural and man-made disasters. Transport is often a casualty of today’s volatile world marked by unpredictable climate disasters, pandemic, and human-made crises. As the risks from climate change escalate, countries need to prepare for rising transport infrastructure costs. For instance, World Bank research estimates that the cost of road maintenance in Africa will increase by 270% in the coming decades as a result of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Solution: Build with an eye to resilience and adaptation.</h2>



Unfortunately, living through crises appears to be a new normal for many people, especially those in developing countries. As a global community, we need to be more resilient, and transport investments are no exception. Physical infrastructure needs to stand strong when disaster strikes. When governments build with the future in mind, they can save significantly by avoiding a rebuild or retrofit later on. This applies to many areas, including improved emergency preparedness, creating redundancies in logistics networks, and ensuring sound asset management, such as road maintenance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenge #3: The world’s logistics systems are struggling to keep up with the times</h2>



COVID-19 made the fragility of the world’s logistics systems shockingly obvious. Volatile energy prices, bottlenecks at key ports, and geopolitical conflict had ripple effects throughout the globe, creating shortages of food and other critical goods.



Solution: Modernize logistics networks, processes and policies to ensure efficient and reliable global distribution of goods and services.



More than four-fifths of global merchandise trade by volume is carried by sea, and container trade has been growing at a faster rate than global GDP itself. Addressing the maritime sector is crucial for any significant transformation of global logistics. Digitizing port processes is paramount to streamlining operations, enabling real-time tracking and facilitating the exchange of data between shipping lines, port services, cargo handling operations, and clearing agencies with other transport networks. Governments also need to pursue policy reforms in several areas. Improving the investment climate would help generate the private investment needed to fund infrastructure projects at ports and beyond. And reforms to state-owned enterprises are necessary to enhance competitiveness in the market and lower costs. Finally, to defend against future fuel price volatility, logistics companies can also start preparing for a transition to more sustainable fuels, such as hydrogen, to power ships and planes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenge #4: The world needs new ideas and new ways of integrating transport modes.</h2>



Cities are growing – 2.5 billion people will be added to urban areas by 2050, most of them in low- and middle-income countries. Governments need to ensure their transport systems keep up.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Solution: Advance technology and data that support systems change.</h2>



Advances in technology are bringing solutions such as alternative fuels, advanced battery technology, open public transport data, real-time air quality sensors, and the power of connecting multiple modes of transport with data and AI. Such integration can unlock transformative change in people’s travel behaviors. These tools all point to a promising future for transport, but only if they are accessible to everyone. Decision-makers need access to the latest tools to advance a future of data-informed policymaking everywhere. Improving technical capacity and governance will help the thousands of fast-growing small- and middle-sized cities use technology more effectively to create integrated transport systems and enable seamless connectivity between different modes for all users.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenge #5: Financing sustainable transport.</h2>



Traditionally, governments have funded large infrastructure systems, but public budgets are stretched thin. Government debt is at an all-time high and more than half of developing countries are on the verge of debt distress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Solution: Engage private investors to bridge the gap.</h2>



Achieving the investment levels necessary to create modern, efficient, safe transport systems requires the involvement of many stakeholders beyond governments – especially the private sector. The funds exist: in 2021, the world’s 500 largest asset managers had a record $119 trillion in assets under management. But global uncertainty has created high levels of risk that deters private participation in infrastructure projects. This is where the World Bank and other development banks play an important role in creating innovative financing structures to help projects get off the ground. In tandem, WRI and other stakeholders can provide research, analytics, and convening. By combining concessional finance, public-private partnerships, and other risk-mitigating instruments, such as guarantees, development banks can work with national governments and cities to spur more private investors to support the necessary changes to transport infrastructure and vehicle fleets.



The transport challenges facing developing countries are enormous, but so are the opportunities to do things differently in ways that are better for people and the planet. The program at the 2023 edition of Transforming Transportation, the premier global conference dedicated to emerging transport solutions for developing countries, aims to advance resilient transport and sustainable development worldwide.

Traffic in downtown N’Djamena, Chad. (Photo: Arne Hoel)

5 Key Transport Challenges Facing Developing Countries and What to Do About Them

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7318-copy-1-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-423057" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7318-copy-1-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7318-copy-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7318-copy-1-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7318-copy-1-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7318-copy-1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7318-copy-1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



The COVID-19 pandemic showed the world that strong healthcare supply chains are critical to&nbsp; addressing global crises. As the African Development Bank leads the work to bolster African &nbsp;manufacturing, attention must also be paid to strengthening the supply chains that bring health&nbsp; products to people. African-led innovations can modernize supply chains to ensure they are resilient,&nbsp; agile, and responsive to patients&#8217; needs.&nbsp;



Local supply chain start-ups have already proven they can achieve results with very limited resources,&nbsp; attracting the interest of governments and leading healthcare, tech, and supply chain organizations such&nbsp; as Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation, Merck Sharpe &amp; Dohme (MSD), Microsoft, AmerisourceBergen and&nbsp; Chemonics. However, engaging with local start-ups has been difficult for global companies and governments alike; and African-led, women-led, and Francophone-led companies are often most&nbsp; excluded from investment, contracts, and partnerships.



To flip this paradigm, a set of global sponsors recently launched the Investing in Innovation program,&nbsp; selecting 31 leading supply chain innovators from across the continent and providing them with a flexible grant, investment readiness support and introductions to leading customers.&nbsp;



“Investing in Innovation is not an accelerator,” says Salient Advisory’s Malyse Uwase, one of the  program’s coordinators, “The continent has many successful accelerator programs already. Instead, we  take leading-edge African health tech companies with products and services in the market and introduce  them to major customers who can help drive their impact at scale.” Hassan Belkhayat, Co-founder of  Southbridge A&amp;I, another of the program’s coordinators, notes that the companies in the programs  inaugural cohort are still small, but collectively have impressive reach. “The companies may be start-ups,  but their promise is clear. Collectively they’re already distributing medicines, devices, and health care  consumables to nearly 25,000 African pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals across the continent.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="547" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7537-copy-1-820x547.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-423058" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7537-copy-1-820x547.jpg 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7537-copy-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7537-copy-1-135x90.jpg 135w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7537-copy-1-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7537-copy-1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ZIC_7537-copy-1-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



Seun Afuye, of Salient Advisory, notes “It’s thrilling to see interest in African healthtech grow. African&nbsp; investors are actively engaged, and investors like the IFC and the US’ Development Finance Corporation &nbsp;are expanding their efforts.” However, despite growing interest from institutional investors, there’s&nbsp; cause for caution: for healthtech companies to succeed at scale, they also need major healthcare&nbsp; customers – who are not connected with local or regional innovations that can accelerate their goals.&nbsp; “Investing in Innovation is meant to bridge that gap – to help innovators and health care giants across&nbsp; the public and private sectors build relationships, that over time can transform systems,” Afuye says.



In a bid to bridge that gap, the Investing in Innovation program held its inaugural ‘Access to Markets’ event in Lagos, Nigeria in December. Over two days, the 31 start-ups selected from across the continent gathered to meet with more than 50 potential customers from the government, the pharmaceutical&nbsp; industry, supply chain companies, major donors, and global tech companies. Hundreds of pre-matched&nbsp; meetings were held to build an understanding of leading supply chain innovations and to also lay the&nbsp; groundwork for potential partnerships. And there’s evidence that the program is working; within its first&nbsp; three months, 35% of the selected start-ups have reported signing a new partnership with industry actors, governments or donors.



“We’re excited to be working alongside our partners in governments, global health agencies and&nbsp; industry to shine a light on leading African innovations, and help accelerate promising start-ups’&nbsp; impact,” says the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation’s Ann Allen, who spearheads their support to this&nbsp; initiative. “We are especially thrilled to see so many women-led supply chain start-ups in this program.&nbsp; These women are showing both local and global communities that new models for health system&nbsp; leadership are possible today.”



While the program has shown early signs of promise, there is still a lot of room for learning. Program&nbsp; coordinators say they are taking learnings from the first cohort of the program to further improve it in its second year. But as the program evolves, its key ambition will remain the same. “Our ultimate goal is to inspire substantial public investment in locally-led innovations that help address governments’ goals in health care, education, agriculture and more – while creating high-value and sustainable jobs,” Uwase&nbsp; says.

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Fixing Africa’s broken health supply chains is a difficult task – but a new program focused on  local innovators is making headway

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="374" src="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/98683_Absa_Mining-Indaba_Sector-Specific_Homepage-Banner_Gold_1440x656-820x374.png" alt="" class="wp-image-422945" srcset="https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/98683_Absa_Mining-Indaba_Sector-Specific_Homepage-Banner_Gold_1440x656-820x374.png 820w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/98683_Absa_Mining-Indaba_Sector-Specific_Homepage-Banner_Gold_1440x656-300x137.png 300w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/98683_Absa_Mining-Indaba_Sector-Specific_Homepage-Banner_Gold_1440x656-160x73.png 160w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/98683_Absa_Mining-Indaba_Sector-Specific_Homepage-Banner_Gold_1440x656-768x350.png 768w, https://cms.cnbcafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/98683_Absa_Mining-Indaba_Sector-Specific_Homepage-Banner_Gold_1440x656.png 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>



While its contribution to GDP may have declined over time, the South African mining and resources sector is a systemically important part of the domestic economy. As such, continued innovation from operators, explorers and financiers will be key in driving the next phase of our economic recovery.



Much of the economic<a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1121214/mining-sectors-value-added-to-gdp-in-south-africa/">1</a> rebound and boost to the South African fiscus in 2021/2022 can be attributed to a windfall from the minerals and resources sector, taking the below into consideration:



<ul>
<li>Mining contributes approximately R220bn to GDP each year</li>



<li>In the 2021/22 tax year, mining contributed R127bn out of R318bn in tax collections<a href="https://www.miningweekly.com/article/mining-proves-its-importance-to-the-fiscus-but-transnet-lets-the-side-down-2022-04-22">2</a></li>



<li>24.1% of South Africa’s export revenue is attributed to primary mineral exports<a href="https://www.mineralscouncil.org.za/industry-news/publications/facts-and-figures">3</a></li>
</ul>



The numbers do not lie. When the mining sector works, the broader South African economy kicks into higher gear.



The theme for the 2023 Mining Indaba focuses on three pillars: Stability, Security and Supply. For these to exist, closer relationships between funders and operators are paramount.



Absa has been a major supporter of domestic mining projects and as the industry ushers in a new sustainability-focused era, we expect to see a variety of innovative transactions come to fruition in 2023 and beyond.



With buoyant commodity prices, increased investor confidence, strong balance sheets and many resource businesses wishing to diversify their operations, we expect corporate finance activity to be strong over the next 12 months.



Cost-effective capital solutions will be a major talking point for mining executives, and this is where we see an interesting dynamic starting to unfold.



Historically, mining organisations have been guided by legislation to govern their license to operate. Over the last few years, we have seen the rise of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks begin to take shape and inform how stakeholders including investors, regulators and finance houses analyse and consider transactions.



Industry insiders speak of a curve where an organisation will move from their obligations (what they are expected to do) through to operational efficiencies (what is smart to do) before moving to industry leadership where they focus on enhancing their businesses through innovation and new business models. In South Africa, examples of the last phase are where mining and resource businesses are now being tasked with not only ensuring they have enough power for their operations but being able to supply back into the grid or surrounding communities as part of a broader sustainability mandate.



As sustainability linked financial products come to market, focus on standardised reporting frameworks, monitoring and evaluation of compliance will increase. It is not enough to simply lend for a capital project, or to finance a transaction – funders and clients need to be able measure the impact of their credit activities. This is one of the areas where Absa has invested a significant amount of resources in growing its skills and capabilities, both in South Africa, as well as across the broader continent.&nbsp;&nbsp;



We are entering an exciting new era for the resources sector, an era which will give Absa the opportunity to deliver sustainable innovative solutions for our clients.

98683_Absa_Mining-Indaba_Sector-Specific_Homepage-Banner_Gold_1440x656

A new era beckons for mining finance

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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Supporting The African Education Community To Achieve Its Goals Through EdTech

Technologies have made financial instruments trading possible and accessible from anywhere on the globe where there’s Internet connection. Annoying ads always assure that stocks and currency trading is easy, but in reality the majority of self confident investors end up in losses. For some it is a discovery that you actually need to study first. Others may think that financial market trading is some kind of a game, however one’s profit would normally depend on accurate calculations and strict compliance with the rules rather than luck.



These rules have been elaborated by traders throughout decades. Those who know them and follow have more chances to achieve constant income in trading. Even though it seems that currency and energy carrier exchange rates are absolutely unpredictable, there are certain signals that show you when you need to place a buy or sell order. Understanding these signals one makes it easier to enter the market and then close the deal with profit. Therefore you need to pass a learner’s course before you open your first orders or invest into any financial asset.



Currencies are as good for trading as oil, gas, gold or wheat and anything else. Currencies rates are never static, they always move allowing traders to make a profit from it. You don’t even need to go to a bank to buy the euros, USD or Japanese yens there – you can do that right in front of your laptop or even tapping your phone’s screen would be enough. You can still buy and sell and consequently earn more than you currently have.



How’s that possible? The majority of the deals in trading are carried out using the leverage, a special setting that allows one to use 50, 100 or even 1000 times more funds. Sounds very attractive, but it’s not that easy: as we’ve mentioned before one has to follow specific rules and at least have an understanding of what to sell or buy.



It’s best to start with the basics of trading, for example on a free learner’s course by FIBO Academy. You’ll learn what trading is and how it works. Having understood the principles of financial markets you would discover new financial possibilities for yourself. The knowledge of basic terms will help you understand what it is being talked about in the finance news, how this news influence the currency rate movement and index and commodities prices. Studying the fundamental analysis will let you evaluate the economic situation yourself. The learner’s course will help you not only take the right decisions in trading or investment but also in life. It is also a good way to know yourself better, learn how to take weighed decisions and draw grounded conclusions. It is of zero importance if trading becomes one of your income sources, you can always apply your knowledge in other activities.



Watch: <a href="https://www.fibogroup.com/analytics-and-training/training/videocourses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.fibogroup.com/analytics-and-training/training/videocourses/</a>

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Earnings in financial markets: is it roulette or science?

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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Supporting The African Education Community To Achieve Its Goals Through EdTech

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